THE PASKUHAN celebration this month will be the “most Christcentered” in recent years as its theme is set to revolve around the sacrifice of Filipino health workers and how it mirrored Christ’s mission, a University official said.
In an interview with the Varsitarian, Facilities Management Office (FMO) Director Fr. Dexter Austria, O.P. said the University chose the “Pinoy superheroes” theme for this year’s Paskuhan to honor the heroism of those who helped the country brave through the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We have to celebrate those who have helped us in one way or another—mga frontliners, [our] families and friends [who kept us] moving… This is giving gratitude to [them]. Sila ‘yung naging heroes sa buhay natin,” Austria said.
In December 2020, the University honored UST frontliners during the Christmas tree lighting ceremony, amid pandemic-induced lockdowns.
The superhero-themed 2022 Pasku-
han will also revolve around Christ’s incarnation and sacrifice on the cross.
“We need to contextualize ‘yung superheroes na ‘yan in a very Christian way… We celebrate Christmas, not just a holiday season, but with Jesus at the center,” Austria said.
“Jesus, our primary hero, served and offered his life without expecting anything in return. He gave everything up… We need to celebrate his birth so that we [can] also find [the] hero in us,” he added.
The month-long Paskuhan festivities will begin with the “Panunuluyan,” the re-enactment of Joseph and Mary’s search for lodging in Bethlehem before the birth of Jesus, at Plaza Mayor on Dec. 1, and will end with the grand Paskuhan concert on Dec. 19.
According to Austria, the pyromusical show during the grand Paskuhan concert would also follow the “Pinoy superheroes” theme.
The main theme of this year’s Paskuhan is “UST Paskuhan 2022: Pananabik, Pagbabalik, Panunumbalik.” LOGAN KAL-EL M. ZAPANTA
UST WILL implement tighter entry measures during the Paskuhan festivities to prevent individuals using fake IDs and outsiders posing as Thomasians from entering University grounds, a campus security official said.
This year’s Paskuhan festivities will mostly be limited to Thomasians and alumni, and the University will implement a no-outsiders-allowed policy to limit attendees as a safety precaution amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
Lords Hernandez, the UST campus security supervisor, told the Varsitarian that the University would be strict in checking IDs during Paskuhan events.
“Chances are magkaroon ng mga fake IDs. Kung baga gagayahin ‘yung ating mga ID. Kahit kaya nilang gayahin ‘yung ID, ‘yung security features n’yan hindi nila kayang gayahin kasi naka-system ‘yan… so malalaman na kaagad na ikaw ay legit,” Hernandez said.
“Ang iniiwasan din namin is ‘yung tinatawag natin na identity theft. Siguro ‘di naman mangyayari
‘yun pero naisip namin na baka, baka lang, may mga student na magpahiram ng ID sa ibang students, so we will check their faces.”
Upon entering the University, Thomasians must present their identification cards or QR codes from the MyUSTe portal.
UST alumni must bring their alumni cards to be allowed into the University or present their QR codes from the Thomasian Alumni Portal.
Employees must present their IDs or QR codes from their respective portals.
Guests and performers for other Paskuhan events will also have to present their invitations for verification.
“Controlled” or “delegated” lanes for the UST Santisimo Rosario Parish Church and UST Hospital will be implemented to ensure that only Thomasians will join the Paskuhan events.
The security office will deploy health marshalls to ensure that Covid-19 health protocols will be followed during the events.
The University will install additional light fixtures in dark areas
around UST to ensure the safety of the attendees at night.
“We were supposed to request additional lighting from the local government unit, but considering the lack of time to do so, we decided that we would be the ones to install the lights in those areas during those events to deter criminals,” Hernandez said.
In a Facebook post, CSC President Nathan Agustin said the Central Student Council (CSC) would help ensure that safety protocols would be followed during the Paskuhan events.
A now-deleted TikTok video providing instructions on how non-Thomasians can enter the University to attend the Paskuhan made the rounds on social media.
“We strongly urge our fellow Thomasians to avoid encouraging, suggesting, or abetting under-the-table transactions and activities that will go against the [University’s] policy,” Agustin said.
THE UST administration strongly recommended the continued use of face masks in indoor spaces on campus even as the national government has made mask-wearing voluntary.
In a memorandum, UST Secretary General Fr. Louie Coronel, O.P. urged Thomasians to continue wearing face masks in “enclosed spaces and indoor areas where ventilation may be compromised.”
“As the number of Covid-19 cases continues to increase with the reported local transmissions of Omicron sub-variants XBB and XBC, wearing of face mask plays an important role in reducing the risk of infection,” he said.
The proper wearing of face masks, Coronel said, would help prevent the spread and transmission of disease and benefit vulnerable populations such as persons with co-morbidities and senior citizens.
Thomasians and other
campus visitors must still observe minimum health protocols, such as social distancing and frequent hand sanitizing, Coronel said.
Coronel also advised Thomasians to get Covid-19 vaccine booster shots.
“For additional protection, immunization with Covid-19 booster doses must be completed at the soonest possible time,” he said.
The University’s new masking policy came a week after President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. signed Executive Order (EO) No. 7 on Oct. 28, which made the wearing of face masks voluntary in indoor settings except in healthcare facilities, medical transport vehicles, and public transportation.
Those with co-morbidities and other vulnerable people are still “encouraged”
The University will “transition” to a modified hybrid learning mode this second term in response to a recent memo of the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) ordering at least 50 percent faceto-face (F2F) classesm the Office of the Vice Rector for Academic Affairs (OVRAA) said.
For Term 2 of the current academic year, AY 2022-2023, UST will adopt the “best combination” of onsite and online class hours, Vice Rector for Academic Affairs Prof. Cheryl Peralta told the Varsitarian
The second term, which will start on Jan. 16, will be a “transitory period,” she said.
“We will maintain the principle of constructive alignment as a basis for determining how courses should be taught. To maximize our gains from enriched virtual mode (EVM) of instruction, academic units shall plan the best combination of onsite and online hours for each of the courses in their respective curricula,” Peralta said.
On Nov. 11, the CHEd ordered all higher education institutions (HEIs) to conduct at least 50 percent of total learning hours on-site effective Term 2.
According to CHEd Memorandum Order (CMO) No. 16, HEIs planning to hold zero to 49 percent of classes on-site need to secure CHEd clearance, while those planning to
conduct full F2F classes do not need approval.
“We will communicate our institutional transition plan to CHEd, as required by CMO 16, s2022,” Peralta said.
She said discussions on the transition plan began during the monthly meeting of academic unit heads in September 2022, before the CHEd memorandum took effect.
Peralta said the University was working to have all programs hold in-person classes by next term.
Academic unit heads are required to submit transition plans for hybrid learning to the OVRAA by Jan. 11, 2023, five days before the start of the second term.
“We requested them to ensure that stakeholders are informed of their plans for the second term AY 2022-2023 as soon as possible,” Peralta said.
Peralta said UST would still apply for the CHEd Safety Seal to assure stakeholders that the resumption of F2F classes would be done safely.
The CHEd Safety Seal is a voluntary certification given to HEIs that have adopted minimum health standards and use the StaySafe.PH app for contact tracing. Academic units that have completed the process may begin on-site classes, Peralta said.
According to the vice rector, all basic education, baccalaureate degree programs (including the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery), and
We will maintain the principle of constructive alignment as a basis for determining how courses should be taught. To maximize our gains from enriched virtual mode (EVM) of instruction, academic units shall plan the best combination of onsite and online hours for each of the courses in their respective curricula.
Prof. Cheryl Peralta VICE RECTOR FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS10 graduate programs have been cleared by the University Crisis Management Committee to conduct in-person classes and assessments as of Dec. 5.
The EVM remained the default mode of instructional delivery for all programs in the first term of AY 2022 to 2023, with an option for the EVM hybrid or EVM hyflex modes.
The EVM hybrid mode requires students to complete a specific number of F2F classes to accomplish the intended learning outcomes of select courses or subjects that cannot be fully achieved with online learning.
Meanwhile, students can participate in either F2F or online classes in the EVM hyflex mode. The hyflex mode is for courses and subjects whose outcomes and competencies may be achieved with online learning, but F2F classes may “enrich the learning experience.” LOGAN KALEL M. ZAPANTA
THE NUMBER of graduates applying for alumni cards has doubled, the Office of Alumni Relations (OAR) said, amid stricter gate entry measures implemented for the Paskuhan celebrations.
According to OAR Director Fredeswindo Medina, the alumni office released 777 alumni IDs online from Nov. 11 to Dec. 3 alone, 48.4 percent higher than the 376 released by the OAR from Jan. 1 to Nov. 10 this year. The number excluded the alumni IDs issued on-site.
On Nov. 11, UST conducted an information session for Paskuhan 2022, where University officials announced that only Thomasians and alumni with proper identification records would be allowed entry during the celebrations.
Medina said the surge in applicants was a usual occurrence ahead of Paskuhan rites.
“Every year, even before the pandemic, there’s always an influx of alumni card applications during December due to the Paskuhan festivities,” Medina told the Varsitarian UST alumni must tap their alumni cards or scan their QR codes (generat-
ed from the alumni web portal) to be granted access to the grand Paskuhan concert on Dec. 19.
Old student IDs will not be accepted on Paskuhan day.
“Ang magiging challenge sa alumni, ‘pag hindi sila nakakuha ng alumni ID, hindi namin sila papayagan pumasok,” Lords Hernandez, the UST campus security supervisor, told the Varsitarian on Dec. 2.
“[Noong Agape], may mga alumni na gustong pumasok, pero dahil nga hindi nila ma-prove na alumni sila, wala silang ID, hindi sila nakapasok. So ang advice namin, next time, kung
By Alexandra L. Mangasar
FOUR Thomasians won prizes in the 70th Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature, the longest-running literary contest in the country, which returned this year after a two-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
UST alumni Ramil Gulle (1st Prize, Poetry), Rebecca Añonuevo (2nd Prize, Tula Para sa mga Bata), Michaela De Leon (2nd Prize, Essay), and Sonny Sendon (3rd Prize, Tula) were awarded on Wednesday, Nov. 30, at the Marquis Events Place in Bonifacio Global City.
Former Varstiarian associate editor Gulle bagged his third Palanca Award for his work “Bol-
anon Prodigal.”
The psychology alumnus previously won in the Poetry category for “Twenty-fifth Fly” (1st Prize, 1996) and “Afterhours, Afterlives” (2nd Prize, 2000).
Añonuevo, a former associate at the UST Center for Creative Writing and Literary Studies, earned her 12th Palanca Award for her work titled “Ale Babang.”
Añonuevo earned her master’s degree in literature at UST and her doctorate in literature at De La Salle University.
De Leon, a journalism alumna, earned her second Palanca Award for her “Filipino Millennial Monomyth,” which won second place in the Essay category.
The journalism alumna ob-
tained her degree from the Faculty of Arts and Letters in 2010. She won third place in the 69th Palanca Awards for her essay, “Call Me A Book ‘Editor,’ I Dare You.”
Meanwhile, Sendon’s “Mga Anino sa Guho at Iba Pang Mga Tula” won third prize in the Tula category.
Sendon earned his bachelor’s degree in medical technology from UST in 2006.
Ralph Lorenz Fonte, a fellow in the 2020 UST National Writers’ Workshop, won first prize in the Tula category for his “Uyayi ng mga Patay na Buwan.”
The Don Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature were awarded to 59 writers, poets, and playwrights this year.
gusto nilang pumasok sa Paskuhan, open naman lagi ang alumni building, two weeks pa naman,” he added.
UST graduates may apply for the cards online or on-site from Nov. 15 until Dec. 7, 2022.
On-site applicants will receive their alumni cards on the same day, while online applicants will have to wait seven to 14 business days after they settle their payments and receive a verification email before they can receive theirs.
Those who have lost their alumni cards may also apply for a replacement card.
ART BY ALLAN CHRISTOPHER M. SAYATTHE UNIVERSITY climbed two spots and placed 175th out of 760 universities in the 2023 Quacquarelli-Symonds (QS) Asia University Ranking, the only Philippine university to improve its ranking.
UST ranked 41st out of 131 Southeast Asian universities as its overall score slightly improved to 29 in the 2023 ranking from 28.9 in 2022.
The University of the Philippines, which remained the country’s top university, fell to the 87th spot in the 2023 list from 77th in 2022.
Ateneo de Manila University dropped to the 134th spot from 124th last year.
De La Salle University fell to the 171st spot from 160th in 2022.
Ateneo de Davao University, the fifth-best Philippine university, also fell to the 551-600 bracket from its 501-550 spot last year.
A total of 16 Philippine universities were ranked this year, with Saint Louis University entering the 2023 list.
Peking University overtook the National University of Singapore to become the No. 1 university in Asia, a spot held by the NUS from 2019 to 2022.
Tsinghua University is the third-best Asian university, jumping from fifth place last year.
According to the QS website, the QS Asia University ranking uses the same methodology as the QS World University ranking but with added indicators.
The QS Asia University ranking used 11 indicators to assess the performance of participating universities: academic reputation (30 percent), employer reputation (20 percent), faculty/student ratio (10 percent), international research network (10 percent), citations per paper (10 percent), papers per faculty (5 percent), staff with doctorate degrees (5 percent), proportion of international faculty (2.5 percent), proportion of international students (2.5 percent), proportion of inbound exchange students (2.5 percent), and proportion of outbound exchange students (2.5 percent).
LOGAN KAL-EL M. ZAPANTATHE CENTER for Campus Ministry (CCM) urged the Thomasian community to respond to God’s call to help the poor as the University held its first onsite “Panunuluyan” since the pandemic began.
CCM supervisor Albert Loteyro told the Varsitarian the re-enactment of the Nativity was meant to instill the values of Thomasian formation among students and extend support to marginalized sectors.
“After all, Paskuhan centers on the celebration of the birth of Jesus. Panunuluyan is important to us because, as a Catholic University, we join the entire Universal Church in celebrating the story of the Nativity,” Loteyro said.
“Panunuluyan is an opportunity to enkindle our faith in God, welcome him in our hearts, and respond to his call to help the poor,” he added.
The CCM official encouraged Thomasians to participate in the UST Simbahayan Community Development’s outreach programs.
“It is not the performance of the actors of the Panunuluyan that we look forward to, but rather the message of hope, Christ our Savior,
our hope,” Loteyro said.
Returning home Rector Fr. Richard Ang, O.P. said the pandemic became an obstacle but strengthened the bond among Thomasians.
“[I]to […] ang dahilan kung bakit mas umigting ang ating pananabik na makabalik dito sa UST upang magampanan ang ating tungkulin at makapiling ang ating mga kasamang itinuturing nating mga kapamilya,” Ang said during the ceremonial lighting of Christmas decorations on Friday, Dec. 2.
The return of onsite activities, the rector said, also gave an intricate understanding of the University’s values to overcome the pandemic as one community.
“Dulot ng ating hindi magandang karanasan sa pandemya ay muling bubuuin, pakikinisin at paninibaguhin upang tayo’y higit na maging karapat-dapat na handog sa Banal na Sanggol,” Ang said.
The Paskuhan Mass will be held on Dec. 16 before the grand concert on Dec. 19. ALLYSSA MAE C. CRUZ
BY MATTHEW VINCENT V. VITALTHE PERSECUTION the Catholic Church is facing nowadays is often subtle and directed at its anti-divorce and anti-abortion stances, a Dominican priest said during UST’s Mass for Red Wednesday at the Santisimo Rosario Parish on Nov. 23.
Fr. Ermito de Sagon, O.P., director of the Institute of Religion, said the Church was being persecuted in “subtle” ways on social media with its stances being villainized.
“The persecution has become so subtle. It is true that today, there is persecution of Christians everywhere but in a very subtle way,” he said.
“They say that when the Church is speaking against abortion and against divorce, everybody's saying, ‘the Church does not understand’… It is not because we are inhumane. It's just that we think that this is the wisdom of God, and that we have to preach it day in and day out,” he added.
De Sagon said this persecution led to Christians putting their faith aside and going with what is more accepted by society.
“Little by little, the influence of society is the one that really pushed us farther and farther away…You will forget about your faith without you noticing,” he said.
Oppression may also cause the secularization of Christian traditions and holidays like Christmas.
“You forget about your faith, that Christmas is just about giving and giving and then partying, and no more Jesus. And that is what is happening,” he said.
“And somehow, I think we are also influenced in that way now when all our decorations are more of Santa Claus and Christmas trees,” he added.
As he ended his homily, Sagon urged Catholics to not be afraid of expressing their faith despite ostracization and persecution.
“You are ostracized precisely because you are trying to follow Christ. When we try to follow Christ, there will be so many instances of persecution,” he said.
Several University edifices, including the UST Main Building and the Arch of the Centuries, were illuminated in red right after the 5 p.m. Mass.
Red Wednesday is a prayer campaign to raise awareness on Christian persecution led by Aid to the Church in Need, a pontifical foundation and international Catholic charity. The theme of this year’s campaign was “Blessed are the persecuted.”
Data from the 2022 World Watch List by Open Door USA showed that more than 360 million Christians were experiencing religious persecution worldwide, a rise from 2021’s 340 million. ALLYSSA
MAE C. CRUZ WITH REPORTS FROM ALEXANDRA MANGASAR
THOMASIANS were advised to preserve the sanctity of the family by avoiding the “toxins” of selfishness, individualism, and indifference during the University-wide Advent Recollection on Dec. 8 at the UST Santisimo Rosario Parish Church.
In his homily, Fr. Simon Ramos, O.P. of the Santo Domingo convent in Quezon City said these toxins had been identified by Pope Francis as poisonous to the formation of strong families.
“These are toxins, these are poisons within the family which kills either a member initially, but we are unaware that the whole family is being destroyed ng kawalang-pakialam ng isang miyembro ng pamilya, sa kabuuan niyang
pamilya, at ang kabuuan ng pamilya ay wala ring pakialam sa isang miyembro nito,” he said.
“The Pope wants us aware of this what is happening, the culture of waste, the culture of indifference, the culture of individualism and selfishness, which he refers to as lason or poison to the family, he is warning us: beware of all of this.
Ramos also warned of the “ideological colonization” that roots from social trends, which subtly and unconsciously affects how families were being perceived.
“‘Yung [phrase na] ‘walang forever,’ pinagtatawanan natin, ginagawa nating
LISTENING is key to promoting peace among Asian countries and highlighting the region’s cultural and religious diversity, UST Rector Fr. Richard Ang, O.P. said during the Conférence Mondiale des Institutions Universitaires Catholiques de Philosophie (Comiucap) the University hosted from Nov. 16 to 18.
In his opening remarks, UST Rector Fr. Richard Ang, O.P. told philosophers and Catholic academics from various parts of the world that listening was important to promoting unity among Christian and non-Christian nations in Asia.
“In the continent where Christians are a minority…the imperative of listening to Asia, both as an act of faith and expression of our communal and individual discernment, is a must to be able to integrate ourselves in the com-
mon historical quest for human development, justice and peace,” he said.
During the event, which was initially set for May 28 to 30, 2020 but was postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, academics, philosophers, and leaders from Catholic universities presented papers under the theme “Faith, Reason, and Dialogue: Listening to Asia.”
The first plenary session was led by Comiucap founder and French philosopher Philippe Capelle-Dumont, in which he presented seven theses discussing the anthropological question in interreligious dialogues.
Comiucap Vice President for Oceania Janis Ozolins discussed the relationship between philosophy and theology and the two fields’ interde-
‘Avoid selfishness, indifference to preserve sanctity of family’► The University conducts the traditional ‘Panunuluyan,’ a re-enactment of the Virgin Mary and St. Joseph’s search for a place for the Blessed Mother to give birth to the Savior, for the first time since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic at the Plaza Mayor on Thursday, Dec. 1. PHOTOS ► Fr. Ermito de Sagon O.P., director of the Institute of Religion and regent of the UST Senior High School, leads the Eucharistic celebration for the University’s commemoration of Red Wednesday on Nov. 23.
FOR THE third year in a row, there will be no grand procession of the image of the Black Nazarene as part of the celebrations for the Feast of the Black Nazarene in 2023 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Fr. Earl Valdez, the attached priest of Quiapo Church, said in a dzBB interview that although there would be no grand procession of the image of the Black Nazarene, other activities such as the Mass and touching of the image of the Black Nazarene would push through.
Hourly Masses will be celebrated at the Quiapo Church on Jan. 9, the Black Nazarene’s feast day. Replicas of the image of the Black Nazarene will also be displayed across churches in Luzon to reach more devotees.
“If people are unable to go to Quiapo Church for the feast, the Black Nazarene itself will go to their respective places and churches,” Valdez said.
He also encouraged devotees to observe health protocols as he said safety remained a top priority amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
The celebration of the Feast of the Black Nazarene was done via a motorcade in selected areas of the City of Manila last year.
Metro Manila has tallied 4,037 active Covid-19 cases as of Nov. 10.
Traslacion is celebrated every Jan. 9 to commemorate the transfer of the Black Nazarene from San Nicolas de Tolentino Church inside Intramuros to Quiapo Church in 1787.
In contrast, Quezon City allowed the La Naval procession to push through in October, for the first since the outbreak of Covid-19.
THE DOMINICAN Province of the Philippines (DPP) celebrated the closing of its golden jubilee as it marked its 51st anniversary at the Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, O.P. Building on Thursday, Dec. 8.
Prior Provincial and UST Vice Chancellor Fr. Filemon de la Cruz, O.P. presided over the anniversary Mass, with Central Seminary regent Fr. Quirico Pedregosa Jr., O.P. as the homilist.
In his homily, Pedregosa quoted Fr. Rogelio Alarcon, O.P., the first Filipino prior provincial, who likened the birth of the province to “a fruit that has ripened from the mother tree, that is plucked and planted onto the soil, hopefully to bud forth and become a mighty tree.”
“It’s too modest for us to say we have become a mighty tree. But let’s look at what the province has become. Just a few indicators. When the province begun, there were only five convents…Now we have six convents and nine houses. We have been blessed,” Pedregosa said.
The Dominican Province of the Philippines was established on Dec. 8, 1971 as the 41st province of the Order of Preachers.
As of December 2022, it has a population of 202 priests, cooperators and student brothers.
Pedregosa said the province was able to survive despite the challenges through the years because of brotherhood and inclusivity.
“We may have different ideas or
different ways of thinking or doing things. And as long as we always found our inclusive form of governance, we will always be on the right path as a province. Come what may, we will always be brothers who sit together, discuss things together, pray over things, and decide as a province,” he said.
In an interview with the Varsitarian, de la Cruz said the province, like everyone else, had to enter into “survival mode” when the pandemic hit.
“The pandemic caught us all by
A PHILOSOPHY faculty member called for the review of the teachings of St. Thomas Aquinas to unearth the “treasure” buried by uncritical anti-cleric and anti-Spanish sentiments, ahead of the milestones of the saint’s life that would be commemorated starting next year.
Levine Andro Lao, a research associate at the Center for Theology, Research Studies and Ethics, presented a study on the thoughts of UST alumnus Cardinal Zeferino González, O.P. on the relevance of Thomism, the philosophy of the work of St. Thomas, at the 11th International Thomistic Congress in Rome, Italy, on Sept. 19.
“For the longest time, I have read faulty arguments and accusations against the teachings of St. Thomas, especially in the Philippines. I hope we can revisit these false notions and see the significance and growth of this intellectual tradition in the country’s own history,” Lao told the Varsitarian
Lao, a former Varsitarian managing editor, said a philosophy is Thomistic if it adheres to the teachings of St. Thomas Aquinas through the “love of wisdom” or a reflection of a person’s life.
“Like St. Thomas, who is also known for the phrase ‘Contemplata aliis tradere (to hand down to others the fruits of contemplation),’ Cardinal Gonzalez also tells us to contemplate and develop virtues that can lead our-
selves and society in general closer to God,” he said.
The Thomistic congress was presided over by Cardinal Luis Ladaria Ferrer, a Spanish Jesuit. It marked the beginning of the Triennium Thomisticum that will observe significant anniversaries, including the 700th anniversary of St. Thomas’s canonization by Pope John XIII in 2023, his 750th death anniversary in 2024, and 800th birth anniversary in 2025.
The 350 delegates who attended the congress consisted of scholars and students who had the opportunity to shake hands with Pope Francis.
The event occurred at the Pontifical Academy of St. Thomas Aquinas from Sept. 19 to 24.
Pope Francis urged the delegates to instill the teachings of St. Thomas through rational dialogue and associ-
ate them with the modern world.
“Before speaking of St. Thomas, before speaking of Thomism, before teaching, one must contemplate: contemplate the master, understand beyond intellectual thought what the master lived and what the master wanted to tell us,” the Pontiff said.
St. Thomas Aquinas is the patron saint of Catholic schools and universities. He is one of the 33 Doctors of the Church and is hailed as the Catholic Church’s greatest theologian.
The Summa Theologica, Aquinas’ greatest work, tackled the proofs of God’s existence, man’s ultimate purpose, and faith and morality.
Other notable works of St. Thomas are the “Summa Contra Gentiles,” “De Malo” (On Evil) and “Disputed Questions on Truth.” WITH REPORTS FROM AMMIEL B. MAESTRADO
surprise. Nobody can say they were prepared for it. So just like anyone else, we had to deal with it in a way by learning to cope with [the challenges] as they come,” he said.
“So, one of the lessons is, we cannot be secured in what we had in our successes in the past. If this has happened, it can happen again…If there's anything to learn, it is to be prepared for things like this,” he added.
UST Vice Rector for Religious Affairs Fr. Pablo Tiong, O.P. said the formation program of the DPP was halted in the early stages of the pandemic.
“Some of the applicants who
were coming in had to be delayed… as they simply could not be accepted [because of the pandemic],” he said.
However, the province was able to cope thanks to the brothers’ initiative, UST Secretary General Fr. Louie Coronel, O.P. said.
“Kasi our mission is to spread, to preach the good news of God, so even though there are times that are challenging, there are also times of hope. ‘Yun yung pinanghahawakan namin, mga signs of hope,” he said.
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These frontliners have demonstrated charity, which is regarded by Christians as the ultimate kind of love. Charity represents the mutual love between God and man, which is made evident in the selfless love of one’s fellow humans. By risking and even sacrificing their own lives for the betterment of mankind, and by following the greatest commandment of loving one another; as He has loved us, they are indeed Christlike heroes.
But honoring these frontliners by merely dedicating event themes for them is nothing but lip service and debasement of their sacrifices if not with the conscious effort to preserve the benefits—and the normalcy—the country has reaped because of them.
Many things that had seemed impossible materialized this year because of the tireless and continuous efforts of these frontliners, even though the year started with a surge in cases due to the Omicron variant.
The resumption of face-to-face classes in schools seemed unfeasible this year, but many have already resumed their onsite classes. The government has become confident enough to mandate the return of full in-person classes for basic education.
The government has also lifted the mask mandate in the country
and now only “encourages” wearing face masks for the vulnerable sector, like those with comorbidities and unvaccinated, and in high-risk areas.
In-person extracurricular activities have also resumed in many universities. UST has conservatively allowed a few such events, such as the Baccalaureate Masses in May, the Solemn Investitures in June, the Welcome Rites in August, and the Paskuhan festivities this month.
Everyone is moving forward and learning to live with the virus, which, according to biological sciences professor Fr. Nicanor Austriaco, O.P., will be “here to stay for another thousand years.” In the case of UST, honoring the “pandemic superheroes” for this Paskuhan signals that the University is acknowledging the end of it. When else would some be recognized except after the job is done?
But, while recognitions are flattering, it would be useless if people would only honor the frontliners during such occasions. Honoring them entails raising their wages and improving the benefits they receive into something fit for the hero’s work they do. But the government and other people in authority are responsible for this.
Beyond dedicating themes and tributes to frontliners, ordinary people can best honor these superheroes by responsibly implementing basic protective measures for themselves and others, especially in this season of family gatherings and inevitable surges in Covid-19 cases. Get vaccinated or avail yourselves of booster doses. Isolate yourselves when exposed or if you suspect you’ve been infected. Frequently sanitize your hands. Wear masks in crowded places.
While our giddiness about celebrating Christmas is understandable, it is not an excuse to destroy the work that frontliners have done to finally achieve this level of normalcy. To sincerely honor our frontliners is to help preserve their hard work for the past two years.
THE HOLIDAY season is upon us, and for many Filipino families, this is a time of joy and celebration. But this year, the joy of the season is being overshadowed by the rising cost of living.
In November 2022, the Philippine inflation rate hit 8 percent, the highest it has been since November 2008, the time of the Great Inflation. Prices of goods and services have increased significantly, making it more difficult for poor Filipino families to make ends meet.
High inflation has made the celebration of Christmas this year more expensive. With prices of basic necessities such as food and clothing already high, the additional cost of Christmas gifts and decorations can be a huge burden.
The government must take steps to address inflation and ensure that the poor are not left behind. President Marcos Jr. and his government
should stop resorting to the excuse that the main driver of Philippine inflation has been “imported inflation.” While this may be true, his government has to act and not merely react.
The pandemic has had a devastating effect on the Filipino economy, with many people losing their jobs and businesses struggling to stay afloat. This has left many Filipinos unable to afford the basic necessities, let alone Christmas gifts and goodies. This is a stark reminder of the inequality that exists in our society and the need for greater economic security for all Filipinos.
The government should also take steps to reduce the cost of living by increasing the supply of goods and services. This could include increasing the production of basic necessities, as well as providing incentives for farmers and businesses to produce more.
But alas, the Marcos family is one of the wealthiest families in the Philippines. They have been living in luxury for decades, and have never experienced the poverty that plagues so many Filipinos.
lack of experience with poverty seems to have led to a disconnect between Marcos Junior
To sincerely honor our frontliners is to help preserve their hard work for the past two years.
This
This Christmas, let us remember those who are struggling and take action to ensure that no one is left behind. While inflation may be the Grinch of Christmas, we can be holiday heroes.
By Hannah Joyce V. Andaya and Nillicent B. Bautista
MORE THAN 34,000
UST campus security supervisor Lords Hernandez told the Varsitarian that the University’s initial crowd estimate for the Agape was about 34,500, based on food packs claimed during the event.
The estimate did not include the number of alumni attendees since the food packages were limited to students and employees of the University.
Hernandez said there were no major safety and security concerns during the Agape, and that the same security protocols, with some mod-
ifications, would be implemented during the Paskuhan concert on Dec. 19, which usually draws at least 80,000 attendees when opened to the public.
All activities for the Paskuhan are exclusive to Thomasians this year.
“Medyo critical (‘yung Paskuhan) kasi nga mataas ‘yong eagerness ng mga tao kasi three years wala e. Mataas ‘yong eagerness, mataas ‘yong excitement,” Hernandez told the Varsitarian
During the Agape, Thomasians who entered the campus were asked to tap their IDs or scan their QR codes
at the University gates. On regular days, students and faculty members only need to tap their IDs or scan their QR codes when entering buildings.
Those who received an “access denied” error were asked to rescan their IDs or QR codes after updating their Thomasian Online Medical Services and Support (ThOMedSS) health declaration.
Hospital visitors were allowed to enter the campus through the Lacson gate, while church visitors were permitted through the P. Noval gate.
Hernandez said the University tapped 70 additional security guards for the Agape to conduct patrols inside and outside the campus. UST also coordinated with the local police unit for security outside the campus.
The food distribution started at 5
p.m., while the lighting of the Christmas lights and decorations began at 6 p.m. A fireworks display, which lasted for about 40 seconds, was mounted shortly after the lighting.
It was followed by the “all-Filipino” Christmas Gala Concert.
‘Unmatched’ on-site Paskuhan festivities
As a first-time attendee, senior high school student Brian Castañeda said seeing thousands of Thomasians gathered together was a joyful experience for him.
“It was very fun and exciting, lalo na hindi ko alam ‘yong mangyayari kasi first time ko. So far, satisfying naman ‘yong experience,” Castañeda told the Varsitarian
Some Thomasians, mean-
REMINDING Thomasians that Christ is what Christmas is all about was the goal of two Thomasian musicians when they wrote their original compositions for the UST Christmas Concert on Dec. 2.
The two-hour concert was held at the Plaza Mayor after the Agape and opening of the Christmas lights and decorations on campus, which some 34,500 Thomasians attended.
Asst. Prof. Fidel Calalang, Jr., founder of the UST Singers, composed the song, "Pasko ng Kaligtasan,” to highlight the salvation and eternal life brought by Christ to humanity.
Calalang said he wrote the song in November 2021 to inspire others to remember the "special meaning of Christmas."
"It's not about celebrating Christmas like we used to do,” Calalang told the Varsitarian “Of course, it's a happy event, and it's not just celebrating the coming of Jesus here on Earth, but [the] coming of Jesus to the world because he has a very special purpose, that's for the salvation of mankind from sins.”
"It is about what he offered to mankind when he was here on earth, and that is the gift of eternal life, and that's why it is called 'Kaligtasan.’”
Calalang said he hoped the song would make everyone reflect on one’s relationship with God.
"Having established again the lost
relationships that we have with God, and, especially now that it's Christmas time, it's a good period for us to reflect and see how we stand before Him," he said.
Another original composition by Thomasian Ace Arceo of the Conservatory of Music was performed during the concert.
Like Calalang's, Arceo's "Halina't Tunguhin" is a five-minute song recounting the first Nativity so that people could be reminded that Christ is the spirit of Christmas.
Arceo said his composition reaffirms that Christ is the Savior and the Nativity heralded the beginning of humanity’s salvation.
Arceo added that his song signifies the yearning for the in-person Paskuhan comeback, which is finally taking place this year after being held virtually for the past two years due to the Covid-19 lockdown.
The 2022 UST Christmas concert was the Conservatory of Music's first "all-Filipino" concert.
It featured 22 Filipino Christmas songs, including Calalang and Arceo's original compositions, performed by Conservatory of Music students, UST Singers, UST Symphony Orchestra, UST String Orchestra, Coro Tomasino, and Liturgikon Vocal Ensemble.
Calalang, Michael Jacinto, Herminigildo Ranera, Arnold Josue, Maria Theresa Roldan, and Mark Raeniel Agpasa served as conductors for the performances. WITH REPORTS FROM JUSTIN BENEDICT LIM
while, treated the Agape as a reunion with their friends.
“Sobrang saya po kasi nakita namin ‘yong friends namin before pa nag-pandemic. Memorable kasi marami po kami nakitang tao,” legal management senior Chrizel Satulan said.
In a short speech during the Agape program, UST Rector Fr. Richard Ang, O.P., said the celebration of Paskuhan festivities in person remains unmatched.
“Naging malikhain at makulay ang nakaraang Christmas concert, subalit walang papantay sa ating aktwal na presensya at sama-samang pakikilahok ngayong gabi. Akmang-akma ang tema ng ating Paskuhan para sa taong ito—pananabik, pagbabalik, panunumbalik,” he said. WITH
REPORTS FROM LOGAN KAL-EL ZAPANTA Thomasians attended this year’s Agape, lighting of the Christmas lights and decorations, and Christmas concert at University grounds on Friday, Dec. 2, which marked the start of the Paskuhan celebrations in UST.concert highlights Christ as true essence of Christmas► Thousands of Thomasians crowd the Plaza Mayor during the official opening of the Paskuhan season on Friday, Dec. 2. PHOTO BY MARVIN JOHN F. UY ► The UST Conservatory of Music stages an ‘all-Filipino’ Christmas gala concert at the Plaza Mayor on
Households once again display colorful and towering lanterns or parol, regarded as a symbol of hope, as the Christmas season in the Philippines – the longest to be celebrated in the world – kicks off.
Many Filipinos flock to San Fernando, Pampanga, the Parol Capital of the Philippines, to witness colorful and stunning displays of lanterns on the streets and in exhibits.
One faculty member from the College of Fine Arts and Design (CFAD) is using his expertise to assemble locals’ cherished products.
Raphael Emmanuelle Kalaw curated an exhibit featuring the storied lantern tradition in Pampanga’s Giant Lantern and Information Center that opened as early as May this year.
The center is located on a 5,000-square-meter land home to the former Paskuhan Village. Inside are capiz lantern chandeliers hanging at the ceiling and an exhibit of adjacent panel displays chronicling the city’s lantern history and parol-making tradition.
Works of lantern industry giant Mario
and Kapampangan visual artists Rafael Maniago and Noel Lopez Catacutan, among others, grace the exhibit.
The giant lanterns of San Fernando have always piqued Kalaw’s interest, making it his thesis subject in college and graduate school.
“I did a coffee table book using photography as a way of documentation [for my college thesis]. From there, doon ko nakilala ‘yung giant lanterns. Eventually, nakilala ko ‘yung mga taga-San Fernando and City Tourism Office,” he told the Varsitarian Kalaw had grown fond of parols since he was a teenager and continued to do so when he entered college.
“Noong high school kasi kami, gumagawa kami ng mga parol. I just fell in love with the craft,” Kalaw said.
In 2017, he visited Pampanga to look for a possible thesis topic when he passed by the Paskuhan Village and saw the giant lanterns that caught his eye.
“Imagine mo around 16 ft siya [dati], ngayon 20 ft na. Ganoon kalaki ‘yung diameter ng lantern. Tapos
‘yung mga bulbs niya, from 8,000 to 10,000. Imagine mo kung gaano katagal and complicated siya gawin,” he said.
San Fernando’s lantern tradition began in 1904 with a competition and evolved in 1931 after electricity found its way to the city.
“Makikita mo ‘yung story ng isang Fernandino and ‘yung transition ng city and [‘yung] growth [ng] history, mae-equate mo siya sa growth ng lanterns. Nag-evolve rin ‘yung lantern with the development of the city,” Kalaw said.
His thesis centered on the parol as a classic cultural heritage of the Kapampangans. He said he visited lantern makers in their houses to document giant lanterns for the exhibit.
“Ang ganda kasi ‘yung [center], isa sa mga first step kung saan pwede mo i-converge and pagsama-samahin ‘yung lantern culture,” he said.
Kalaw said his work in the exhibit is a way of “giving back” to the people of San Fernando for helping him with his paper and a step forward to preserving the giant lantern tradition of the Kapampangans.
By Marymon Frances D. Reyes and Karis M. Tsang
PASKUHAN, UST’s annual Christmas celebration, is prominently known for its tasteful decorations, concerts and Agape. But how did this formerly small “salu-salo” become a much-anticipated yearly tradition?
In 1991, Thomasians celebrated the “Paskong Tomasino, Paskong Filipino ‘91“ with an intercollegiate lantern-making competition, musical programs and a eucharistic celebration at the UST Grandstand.
In the same year, UST staged its first “Panunuluyan” and launched a charity program to extend a helping hand to the afflicted families from two calamitous disasters: the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo and the ravage of Typhoon “Uring.”
UST installed its first Christmas tree, standing at 14 feet at the Grandstand, where students and staff placed their donations.
In 1993, the term “Paskuhan” was coined and a “simple gathering” led by former UST Treasurer Fr. Tereso Campillo, O.P. was held.
A more festive Paskuhan would be arranged later on as the University prepared the celebration of World Youth Day and the visitation of Pope John Paul II in 1995, with the late College of Architecture and Fine Arts professor Rey Mañago designing an 80-foot Christmas tree. The same would go with Paskuhan 2014, one month away from Pope Francis’s visit.
Some years, however, saw a more subdued Paskuhan. The fireworks display in 2004, for instance, was put on hold because of four successive tropical storms, opting to donate money instead to affected families.
A “for-a-cause” mass offering, meanwhile, was initiated in 2013 in light of Super Typhoon “Yolanda,” which battered much of Luzon and Visayas.
And the 2015 edition of Paskuhan was interrupted by Typhoon “Nona,” prompting the Mass to be held at the Quadricentennial Pavillion (QPav) and the Christmas Concert at the UST Practice Gym instead.
Other Paskuhan festivities concurrently celebrated milestones, such as the 2009’s “4 horas, 4 dias, 4 hundred days, 400 years” in anticipation of the University’s quadricentennial celebration. The event reportedly began at 8:00 pm on Dec. 18 that dragged into midnight, lasting almost 4 hours. It was held exactly 400 days before Jan. 28, 2011 – the feast day of St. Thomas Aquinas.
2019 saw UST’s last in-person celebration of Paskuhan before the Covid-19 pandemic, with hitmaker Ben & Ben serenading more than 100,000 attendees – a “nightmare” in terms of security, Facilities and Management Office Head Fr. Dexter Austria, O.P. told the Varsitarian
The first two pandemic-era Paskuhans were forced
Tahimik na mga silid-aklatan. Mga espasyong tila disyerto at walang laman. Isang napakalungkot na atmospera. Ito ang kalagayan ng UST sa dalawang taon ng pandemya—kakaiba kumpara sa masiglang estado nito na nakasanayan ng lahat. Kung ikaw ay umapak sa loob ng Unibersidad sa mga araw na ito, ang tanging maririnig lamang ang kaluskos ng mga dahon na sumasabay sa hampas ng hangin.
Ang mga atleta na dating nagsasanay sa napakalawak na field, mga propesor na nagsisilbing liwanag sa mga silid-aralan, at mga estudyanteng masayang nagtatawanan habang bumibili sa carpark, naging tila malalayong tinig at memoryang umaalingawngaw.
Sa loob ng dalawang taon na iyon ay tila natigil rin ang karaniwang tradisyon ng mga Tomasino tuwing Kapaskuhan. Sa halip ay nasa kanilang mga tahanan ang bawat isa, umaalinsunod sa mga quarantine protocols ng gobyerno. May mga estudyante na sa loob ng dalawang taon ay kasama ang kanilang pamilya para sa selebrasyon ng Pasko. Mayroon namang mga umuwi ng probinsya, at mayroon ring mga Tomasino na naisi-
pang magbakasyon sa ibang lugar noong lumuwag ang mga restriksyon.
Iba’t ibang selebrasyon, iba’t ibang gawain, at iba’t ibang paraan upang ipagbunyi ang Kapaskuhan. Ngunit sa kabila nito, lahat ay nagbabakasakali, nagnanais, at naghihintay—inaasam muli ang panunumbalik ng dating saya sa Unibersidad.
Dalawang taon na ang nakalipas.
Sa wakas, malalasap na rin natin muli ang Paskong Tomasino.
Noong ika-2 ng Disyembre, ipinagbunyi ng Unibersidad ang kapanapanabik na Agape 2022 — kauna-unahan mula nang pumutok ang pandemya na isinagawa sa loob ng kampus. Ito ang naging pambihirang pagkakataon upang makapag-tipon-tipon muli ang mga estudyante, propesor, administrador at tauhan ng UST para tunghayan ang kumikislap na ilaw na nagbibigay-liwanag sa mga nakapaligid na dekorasyon at ang awit ng koro.
Makikita rin muli ang sorbetes ni Santo Tomas na naglilibot sa loob ng paaralan, at ang napakalaking entablado kung saan tumutugtog ang mga banda.
Nakatataba ng puso na makitang masaya at nandirito muli ang lahat.
Tila bumalik ang dating UST bago ang pandemya—isang unibersidad na puno ng buhay at sigla—na walang sawang pinagkukuhanan ng litrato, at ang maligayang pamamahagi ng pagkain sa bawat Tomasino.
Natapos ang gabing puno ng hiyawan nang bigyang-patikim ang lahat sa isang fireworks display na siguradong mas magarbo at magtatagal sa darating na Paskuhan Concert sa Disyembre 19.
Para sa nakararami, ito ang unang pagkakataon na mararanasan ng mga estudyante ang tunay at kumpletong Paskong Tomasino na hindi lamang mapapanood sa kanilang mga gadyet. Hindi na lamang ito kuwento ng mga ate at kuyang nasa mataas na baitang— mga kwentong puno ng pananabik sa mga alaala ng dating Paskuhan.
Pagkatapos ng dalawang taon ng pag-aasam, totoo at nandirito na nga tayo.
Ngayong nalalasap na ng mga baguhan ang selebrasyon na puro istorya lamang dati, maaari nang pag-sangayunan ng lahat: anuman ang paraan ipagdiwang ang kaarawan ni Kristo, wala pa ring hihigit sa tamis ng Paskong Tomasino. ANGELI RUTH ACOSTA
LIKAS na sa mga Tomasino ang pag-abot ng tulong sa mga nangangailangan lalo na tuwing Pasko kung saan nangingibabaw ang espiritu ng bigayan.
Marahil nakaukit na sa katauhan ng bawat Tomasino na hindi lamang pagtanggap ng regalo ang nananaig sa mga panahong ito. Bagkus, naghahari ang paghahandog ng biyaya sa kapuwa.
Ipinamalas ito noong naglunsad ang parokya ng Santisimo Rosario ng isang bazaar noong ika-3 ng Disyembre, 1972 upang makalikom ng pondong pangbili ng donasyon para sa mga parokyanong nangangailangan.
Ayon kay Esperanza Narvasa, pangulo ng parish council, bahagi ang bazaar at ang paglikom ng pera’t donasyon ng taunang pamamahagi ng parokya tuwing Pasko.
Isinagawa ang bazaar sa harap ng Botanical Garden kung saan kabilang ang mga lumang damit, bulaklak, bag, at lumang sapatos sa mga paninda.
Para kay Narvasa, ang pagtutulungan ng mga parokyano at iba’t ibang organisasyon ang susi sa tagumpay ng bazaar at upang maabot ang P4,000 na pondong sapat para sa mga ipamamahagi.
Janairo ng kursong Chemistry sa College of Science ng Unibersidad noong 1978, kung saan nakuha rin niya ang kanyang masterado noong 1982.
Ipinagpatuloy niya ang kanyang pag-aaral sa Eberhard-Karls-Universität zu Tübingen, sa Tubingen, Germany, kung saan nakamit niya ang kanyang doktorado noong 1983.
Isang dekada ang nakalipas, ginawaran siya ng Outstanding Young Scientist of the Philippines ng National Academy of Science and Technology.
Kinilala rin si Janairo bilang isa sa mga katangi-tanging mananaliksik ng National Research Council of the Philippines para sa mga inobasyon at pambihirang tagumpay sa larangan ng Chemistry noong 2014.
Kabilang pa sa kanyang mga parangal ang Outstanding Alumnus Award in Academe noong 2006 mula sa UST Chemistry Department, at ang Albertus Magnus Award in Science noong 2007 na mula naman sa UST College of Science.
by Nyah Genelle de LeonIT’S BEGINNING to look a lot like Christmas, but why does it feel like summertime?
The Philippines is among the countries suffering the most due to climate change, which is why Christmas may not be as chilly as it was in the past, a UST professor said.
Prof. Moises Norman Garcia, an environmentalist and researcher of sustainability studies, said the Philippines and other developing countries were the common victims of the ill effects of other countries’ large carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.
China, with more than 10,065 million tons of CO2 released, and the United States, with 5,416 million tons of CO2, combined for more than 40 percent of the world’s total CO2 emissions as of 2016.
The Philippines ranked
36th with 126,922,662 tons of CO2 emissions, which made up 0.35 percent of the world’s total share.
“Parang negligible ‘yung emissions ng bansa natin, pero what do you observe when it comes to disasters brought about by climate change?
Tayo ang nagsu-suffer, ‘yung mga bansang developing ang nagsu-suffer,” Garcia told the Varsitarian
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, the country should expect temperatures to rise by 1.8 to 2.2°C by 2050.
“‘Yung intensity, ‘yung lamig ng panahon, parang nawawala na, umiiksi na rin. It’s because of [climate change]. So we are actually experiencing the effects of climate change, especially during the time of Christmas,” Garcia said.
“When I was a student sa UST, ‘pag malapit na ang Christmas season, ang mga kwarto lang doon, electric fan
Kung iisipin, sa panahon ngayon, hindi na katumbas ng halaga ng P4,000 noon ang P4,000 ngayon. Nakakatuwang mawari na sa kabila ng mga pagbabago at di mabilang na transisyon na dinanas ng lahat, hindi nawawala ang pagmamalasakit ng mga ganap na alagad ng Diyos sa iba pang mamamayan.
Tila pa naging simbolo ng pakikiramay ang ganitong mga programa sa UST sa tuwing pumapatak ang Disyembre. Isang palatandaan na anuman ang okasyon, bukas ang komunidad ng mga Tomasino sa pag-aa lay ng oras at handog para sa mga nangangailangan.
***
Tomasino Siya Marami nang Tomasino ang umukit ng kanilang marka sa mundo ng agham, at kasama na dito si Gerardo C. Janairo na tumatak sa larangan ng chemistry.
Nagtapos si
Noong 2016, isa si Janairo sa mga ginawaran ng Outstanding Thomasian Alumni (TOTAL) Award, kung saan pinarangalan siya sa larangan ng Science and Technology.
Sa kasalukuyan, isang full professor si Janairo sa Chemistry Department ng Pamantasang De La Salle mula pa noong 1995.
***
Tomasalitaan Sagansan (png.)Pagkakapatong-patong. Kalagayan o ayos ng nagkapatong-patong o nagkakatipon sa isang tabi.
Hal.: Magiging masaya ata ang Pasko ni Anna dahil sa sagansan ng mga regalo sa ilalim ng kanyang Christmas tree.o. DIANA MAY B.
FROM PAGE 10 ►
to settle online: The 2020 iteration replayed the best of the best performances from the previous years, while 2021 was staged at QPav without the jampacked audiences in observance of minimum health protocols.
A virtual recreation of the UST campus in the sandbox game Mindcraft was instead offered, complete with a 70-foot tall Christmas tree, life-sized figures of the Holy Family stationed at the Arch of the Centuries and colorful lights surrounding the Benavides Park.
Paskuhan in the new normal
After two years of virtual celebrations, UST will be holding anew an in-person Paskuhan, carrying the theme, “Pananabik, Pagbabalik, at Panunumbalik,” though the crowd attendance would not be as crushing as in 2019.
“This year’s Paskuhan, we are trying to get back on our feet but not as the pre-pandemic because we are still in a pandemic. We are trying to control people coming in,” Austria said.
Only students, alumni and faculty are permitted inside the premises on Dec. 19.
The people behind Paskuhan have expressed their excitement over the return of in-person festivities.
“Very excited to just be working with everyone. I’m excited to see everything come together [and] to see the field again filled up with people enjoying the bands,” Asst. Prof. Faye Abugan, assistant director of the UST Communications Bureau, told the Varsitarian
For Austria, Thomasians have been the star of Paskuhan’s three-decade storied history.
“UST will not be UST if not for Thomasians laughing together and sharing together and being joyful with each other during Paskuhan, and that’s what excites me,” he said.
MALLS are bustling with activity as shoppers rush around looking for the perfect gifts for their loved ones. The sound of Christmas carols fills the air, and the decorations are festive and bright, with colorful lights and garlands adorning the walls and ceilings. The sights and sounds of Christmas shopping are a mix of joy and chaos. The stores are filled with shoppers, all looking for the perfect gifts for their loved ones. The aisles are filled with decorations, toys, and other festive items.
The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the classic Christmas carol, “The 12 Days of Christmas,” which indicates how Christmas is celebrated in Europe via the so-called “Twelvetide,” starting with the Nativity feast itself on December 25 and lasting till January 6, the feast of the epiphany.
While this beloved song is a staple of the holiday season, it also serves as a reminder of the commercialization of Christmas. The song is a list of increasingly extravagant gifts, from a partridge in a pear tree to 12 drummers drumming. This list of gifts is a reminder of the consumerism that has become so prevalent during the holiday
season. The song encourages people to buy more and more gifts for their loved ones, and to spend more money than they can afford.
The commercialization of Christmas has become so pervasive that it has become a part of the holiday season. Stores are filled with decorations and gifts, and advertisements for the latest and greatest products are everywhere. This commercialization of Christmas has led to an increase in debt and financial stress for many people.
The commercialism of Christmas can be seen as both a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, it encourages people to shop and spend money, which can help boost the economy. In the Philippines, wherein Christmas kicks off as early as September and peaks on Christmas day, and races to the finish line on January 6, the commercialism of Christmas may be a necessary evil. It will contribute greatly to the country’s struggling
economy by encouraging people to shop.
However, it can also lead to overspending, which can be dangerous given the high inflation in the country. Additionally, it adds to environmental pollution due to the number of plastic decorations and other non-biodegradable items used during the holiday season.
It is a good thing Filipinos have a strong sense of faith and spirituality, and this is reflected in the way we celebrate Christmas. Despite the commercialization of the holiday, Filipinos still find ways to keep the spiritual aspect of Christmas alive. This includes attending religious services, such as Mass, and participating in traditional activities like caroling and the Simbang Gabi. Filipinos also take time to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas, which is the birth of Jesus Christ. They also spend time with family and friends, sharing meals during noche buena and exchanging gifts, and giving back to their communities.
By emphasizing the spiritual aspects of Christmas, Filipinos are able to resist the commercialization of the holiday and keep it focused on its true meaning.
and the plight of the poor, which is unfortunate because he can be “The Man Who Saved Christmas” since he’s made himself concurrent agriculture chief.
According to the Department of Trade and Industry, prices of 195 out of 223 usual noche buena items increased by at least 10 percent compared with their 2021 prices. The suggested retail price for ham has increased from P158 to P862 in 2021 to P163 to P892.50 as of November. Pasta now costs P25.50 to P111, up from P19 to P92.50 the previous year, while spaghetti sauce is now P23.55 to P95.50, up from P22 to P85.90 in 2021.
The government should take steps to ensure that the prices of goods and services remain stable. This could include introducing price controls
and monitoring the prices of goods and services to ensure that they remain within reasonable limits.
Still, despite the economic challenges, there are still ways for Filipinos to celebrate Christmas without breaking the bank. One way is to focus on the true spirit of Christmas, which is about remembering Christ, spending time with loved ones, and celebrating the joy of the season. Instead of buying expensive gifts, Filipinos can opt for homemade gifts or simply spend quality time with their family and friends.
Another way to celebrate Christmas on a budget is to plan ahead. Filipinos can take advantage of the many discounts and sales that are available during the holiday season. Shopping for gifts and other items early can help save money and ensure
that everyone has something to enjoy during the holidays.
Finally, Filipinos can also look for alternative ways to celebrate Christmas. Instead of going out for dinner or attending expensive parties, they can opt for a more intimate celebration at home.
The theme of this year’s Paskuhan is Filipino superheroes. As Thomasians, we can stay true to this theme by coming together to support those in need this Christmas. We can do this by donating to or volunteering in charities that provide food and other necessities to those in need.
This Christmas, let us remember those who are struggling and take action to ensure that no one is left behind. While inflation may be the Grinch of Christmas, we can be holiday heroes.
FIREWORKS businesses are reeling from increases in production costs and restrictive policies in place and pleading for support from the government as the holiday season is in full gear.
The industry is suffering from shortages, price hikes and production losses, with the pandemic and rising inflation exacerbating the situation.
Dragon Fireworks, which will handle the pyromusical show at this year’s Paskuhan, told the Varsitarian that China’s harsh lockdown affected the price of their raw materials.
“Ang naging talagang problem lang especially this year, tumaas nang almost double ‘yung price lalo na sa consumer fireworks, [...] most of the chemicals kasi […] comes from abroad and marami diyan comes from China, and China had this Covid lockdown na sobrang extreme,” product designer Don Miguel Villarosa said.
Consumer fireworks include bangers, sparklers, lances, fountains and multi-shot cakes, among others.
Villarosa said they had no choice but to increase prices to cope.
“[W]e’re telling them (customers) na kung ano man ‘yung rates natin two years ago, we cannot give that anymore kasi talagang nagtaas ‘yung inflation,” he said.
According to the Philippine Pyro-
technics Manufacturers and Dealers Association Inc. (PPMDAI), setbacks to price increases include job cuts and a lower number of stocks in inventories. Competing with online fireworks has also been a challenge, as most of them are unlicensed and unregulated.
Villarosa denounced what he described as a “problematic” implementation of regulations, citing incidents of unclear demarcation between firecrackers and fireworks among enforcers.
“[M]erong hindi nagpapatupad sa batas. Meron kasi mga ina-as one nila yan, [...] so damay lahat ng items mo kapag cinonfiscate kahit hindi naman talaga dapat,” said Villarosa.
Fireworks are characterized by colorful flames and sparks meant for shows, while firecrackers are typically sound-producing explosives.
Former President Rodrigo Duterte issued two orders imposing stiff regulations on the fireworks industry: Executive Order No. 28, regulating firecrackers and confining pyrotechnic devices to community fireworks and Memorandum Order No. 31, suspending the issuance of permits for new businesses.
Valenzuela 1st District Rep. Rex Gatchalian recently filed House Bill No. 5914 proposing a total ban on the sale of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices for consumers and requiring companies and entities to seek a special permit from the Philippine National
Police-Fire and Explosives Office (PNPFEO) to conduct fireworks display.
The Department of Health (DOH) has been advocating against using firecrackers during holiday season due to high concentrations of toxic chemicals and the imminent risk of burn-related injuries that may result in amputation.
In recent years, the number of firecracker-related injuries has constantly declined. On New Year’s Eve of 2022, the DOH reported just 85 cases, lower than the previous year’s 95.
A significant number of the caseload stemmed from illegal firecrackers like piccolo and 5-star. Thirty-six percent of all reported cases came from Metro Manila, 15 from Region 6, and 13 from Region 1.
San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora, president of the Metro Manila Council, said they are prepared to release guidelines on the firecracker ban to be implemented all over National Capital Region to reduce the number of injuries resulting from firecracker misuse.
Villarosa batted these stringent proposals that might “kill” the industry.
“Imagine mo, sinasabi doon ng mga gusto magpa-ban, ‘Let’s change your business line.’ How can you say that to thousands of people na umaasa diyan? It’s not that easy, suportahan talaga,” he said.
“Pag pinatay mo, para saan na lang ‘yung mga competition na sinalihan namin noon representing the country? Diba parang nawala? Sayang talent. Sayang yung industry pag mawala altogether.”
In these times, with the recent news of economic difficulties and the doubtful measures being taken by governments, it is difficult to keep a hopeful spirit. But should there be a wish I can think of, it is for the Filipino people to realize their true power to chart the future of our country - to know the power of our individual and collective voices in contributing to our country and in demanding accountability and change. That if the government cannot deliver for us, we can stand together to make a system that will force the government to deliver.—Nathan Raphael Agustin, Faculty of Civil Law
May the pleasing promises of the Marcos Jr. administration become a reality once and for all. May the status quo remind everyone of the importance of electing a deserving leader of our nation, a leader who would prioritize the interests of the people rather than his own. May this year’s Christmas season strongly serve as a beacon of hope for all of us whilst not forgetting that voicing our grievances is still one of the most powerful weapons in this day and state. I am hoping that the spirit of Christmas would spur us to unitedly fight for inclusivity and accountability from those politicians and private individuals involved in many anomalies and corrupt practices in the government.—Hoan Ferdinand C. Sanque, College of Commerce and Business Administration
As mentioned in a Christmas station song of ABS-CBN back in 2011, “[S]a dulo ng bawat taon, naghihintay ang masayang panahon.” We, Filipinos, have struggled and sacrificed a lot bwcause of natural calamities. Inflation will not go anywhere and may take a long period of time before it goes down again, it’s a very complex issue affecting all of us, but we shouldn’t forget the true meaning of Christmas Jennessy de Torres, Faculty of Pharmacy
For this Christmas, wish all Filipinos to attain a higher quality of livingwhich everyone has access to all their rights and necessities. For every family, wish for a government that will truly do everything to ensure them that a brighter and better Christmas is celebrated.For the following years of the Marcos Jr. regime, my ultimate Christmas wish is for genuine truth, integrity, peace, and justice to prevail against corruption, lies, and historical distortion.
Lexter King S. David, Faculty of Arts and Letters
wish for our countrymen this Christmas to come together and not lose hope in our democracy. In a holiday emphasizing love and community, we should come together regardless of political ideology. Democracy is not an “us versus them”; the best Christmas gift we can give to each other is working hand-in-hand to change the country for the better Jomari Jesus Tan, Faculty of Arts and Letters
wish for all Filipinos to be able to celebrate Christmas with proper Noche Buena food without skimping on budgets, products, or portion sizes. Christmas dinners are, especially nowadays, rare chances for Filipino families to bond over festive food made with familial love and togetherness, and I hope the rising prices and current economic problems won’t ruin that.
Lalaine Mae O. Santos, Faculty of Civil Law
meme. Pero hindi natin nare-realize, lason ‘yan. Kasi wala palang magtatagal, wala palang buhay sa kabila,” he said.
“These are the many implications of tolerating, allowing these things—cute siya, masarap pakinggan, pero we are not aware, this creeps into our minds and our hearts, and it destroys the value of the Gospel,” he added.
Ramos said the “culture of ephemeral” was dangerous as it discourages people from making long-term commitments to their partners.
Ramos also warned about the trend of “normalizing” unconventional things.
“Bukambibig na ito ng mga bata, they would assert themselves, they would express themselves and would try to convince us, ‘let’s normalize soand-so, let’s normalize same-sex union,
let’s normalize abortion, let’s normalize these things.’ Little did they know that the word ‘normal’ has the root word ‘norm,’” he said.
“They thought they could go away with the rules. Akala nila, ‘pag sinabi nating normal, it is allowable, wala nang rules…this ‘ideological colonization’ colonizes people with ideas that try to change mentalities or structures, but this is not new. This was done by the dictatorships of the last century,” he added.
To combat this, Ramos said Catholics must “never succumb to the greatest substitute.”
“So the Pope wants us that, this what is happening, the culture of waste, the culture of indifference, the culture of individualism and selfishness, which he refers to as lason or poison to the
family, he is warning us: beware of all of this,” he said.
The priest also encouraged listening within the family, saying that keeping an open line of communication would ensure better synergy between family members.
As the recollection coincided with the feast of the Immaculate Conception, Ramos also urged the faithful to be like Mary, who “introduced to us the God who chooses to repair broken relationships.”
“Through Mary we have known God, a God who prepares to fight for his love, to repair what is broken and a God who only wants us back to his embrace. May we heed His call, may we listen to Him, and do whatever He wills,” he said. ALLYSSA MAE C. CRUZ AND AMMIEL B. MAESTRADO
The main thing wish for every Filipino is that we remain hopeful that one day, the Philippines will once again be a country full of respect, inclusivity, and camaraderie. I also wish each Filipino remains discerning and knowledgeable in both times of joy and peril. Let us exhibit our kindness and hospitality as Filipinos to celebrate this season with love.
T. Cueta, Faculty of Arts and Letters Francependence during the second plenary session.
Fr. Hermel Pama, O.P., an anthropologist and faculty member of the UST Faculty Philosphy, led the third plenary session with his talk about being truthful in the “post-truth” era.
Irish philosopher and Rockhurst University professor Brendan Sweetman talked about the phenomenon of post-truth or the relativistic trend in the exercise of democracy during the fourth plenary session on the second day.
Rockhurst said the crisis of modern democracy was due to a loss of confidence in the capability of human reason amid the emergence of pluralist views.
The fifth plenary session was conducted by Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue consultant Fr. Benedict Kanakappally. He emphasized the contributions of Asia in the expansion of worldwide interreligious dialogue.
Comiucap Vice President Fr. Salomón Lerner Febres talked about the human tendency to yearn for transcendence based on the significant connection between faith and reason.
Indian professor Fr. Kurian Kachapilly presented the relationship between faith and reason as an interface of model and modal logic.
Human experiences are subjective and thrive in holistic empiricism as the Chinese way of thinking in natural theology, said the final plenary speaker,
Hong Kong Baptist University professor Kai-man Kwan, who discussed the “subjective way” of knowing God.
Attendees of Comiucap 2022 included the members of the Order of Preachers, the Missionary Daughters, Holy Family of Nazareth, the Society of Jesus, the Salesians of Don Bosco, the Order of Saint Augustine, the Society of St. Paul, the Dominican Sisters of St. Catherine of Sienna, Las Hermanas Missioneras Servedoras de Palabra, and the Marian Missionaries of the Holy Cross.
This was the second time Comiucap was hosted by the Philippines. The conference was held in Manila in September 2008. ALLYSSA MAE C. CRUZ AND AMMIEL B. MAESTRADO
The UST Tiger Sands asserted their beach volleyball dominance anew after claiming the men’s and women’s beach volleyball titles at the SM Sands
By The Bay on Tuesday, Nov.
29.
The Tiger Sands bagged their fourth-straight title, while the Lady Spikers snagged their fifthstraight championship after toppling their National University foes in the finals.
“Sobrang saya kasi history ‘yon. Hindi kayang makuha ng isang team ‘yon. Blessing na nakuha namin iyon,” UST head coach Paul
Doloiras told the Varsitarian
In the men’s division, Jaron Requinton and Rancel Varga defeated NU’s tandem of James Buytrago and Pol Salvador, 21-16, 21-14.
Blove Barbon and Gen Eslapor clinched UST’s fifth-straight women’s beach volleyball title in dominant fashion after besting Lady Bulldogs Kly Orillaneda and eventual Rookie of the Year Honey Grace Cordero, 21-15, 21-16.
The UST Lady Spikers did not lose a set in their entire Season 85 run.
Requinton and Barbon, rookies of the year in Season 81, were
named Most Valuable Players in their respective divisions.
Barbon, who won three titles for UST, said she would forego her final year of eligibility next year.
“Patuloy ninyo kaming suportahan sa mga susunod na season. Hindi man kami ‘yung maglalaro sa susunod, kahit naman ‘yung mga bata, alam namin may maibubuga sila,” Barbon told the Varsitarian
During the awarding ceremony, the UAAP announced that it would hold the juniors’ beach volleyball tournament in March 2023.
JOHN PETER L. CAJAYON
The UST Junior Tigersharks took home the gold medals in the UAAP Season 85 boys’ and girls’ swimming tournaments at the Teofilo Yldefonso Swimming Complex on Sunday, Nov. 27.
The Junior Tigersharks tallied a total of 658 points, while their female counterparts recorded a total of 650 points to give UST a golden double in the high-school division. UST’s promising rookies Aishel Evangelista and Patricia Santor spearheaded the girls’ team
with 64 and 75 points, respectively.
Roz Encarnacion added another gold to UST’s medal haul on day 4 of the tournament after clocking 2.09.98 in the women’s 200-meter breaststroke.
UST head coach Cyrus Alcantara said the twin golds were proof of how his players worked hard despite the pandemic and the threeyear halt of the swimming tournament.
“The points speak for themselves. Kahit pandemic, the swim-
mers did whatever they can,” Alcantara said.
In the collegiate division, the UST Tigersharks finished last among four teams in both the men’s and women’s divisions, tallying 125 and 112 points, respectively.
Ateneo de Manila University brought home the gold medal in the men’s tournament, while De La Salle University won the gold in the women’s division. NICOLE
ANNE D.G. BUGAUISAN
The UST Growling Tigresses failed to secure a finals slot after losing to De La Salle Lady Archers, 74-69, in their do-ordie UAAP Season 85 women’s basketball tournament semifinals matchup at the Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday, Dec. 4.
With 3:46 minutes left in the fourth quarter, the Tigresses trimmed DLSU’s seven-point lead to just two after backto-back buckets by Joylyn Pangilinan and Rachelle Dionisio’s layup, 68-66.
DLSU big Fina Niantcho was fouled by Eka Soriano and made one of two freebies, then Dionisio made a three-point play to tie the game at 69 with 31.2 seconds left in the match.
However, the Tigresses were not able to defend the Lady Archers without fouling, allowing them to score five unanswered points for the win.
Agatha Bron led UST with 13 points while UAAP Season 85 MVP Eka Soriano contributed 10 points.
DLSU’s Niantcho tallied a double-double after tallying 18 points and 12 rebounds.
UST will lose the services of sharpshooter Pangilinan, who will breach the
UAAP’s age limit for Season 86. However, next season will see the return of former rookies of the year Tantoy Ferrer and Kent Pastrana, as well as Danganan twins Kai and Koi. NICOLE ANNE D.G. BUGAUISAN
The UST Growling Tigers capped their forgettable season with a 1-13 win-loss record after bowing down to the De La Salle Green Archers, 77-72, in their final UAAP Season 85 game at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday, Nov. 30.
UST mounted a nine-point lead early in the fourth quarter after Royce Mantua and Nic Cabañero converted three triples, 69-60.
But the Green Archers pulled an 11-0 run with three minutes remaining to turn things around and take the lead, 71-69.
The Tigers were limited to only one field goal in the last 8:55 of the game. The Archers went on a game-winning 17-3 run in the fourth quarter to keep their Final Four hopes alive.
“Madami akong dapat pag-aralan kasi iba iba ang character ng mga bata. Dapat mag-adjust ako sakanila, hindi sila ‘yung mag-adjust,” UST head coach Bal David said after the game.
In his first year with UST, David matched Boy Sablan’s record in Season 80. Sablan was sacked after that season.
Royce Mantua led UST with 17
points, while Nic Cabañero scored 16 markers.
DLSU Evan Nelle scattered 25 points, while Raven Cortez scored 13 points.
The Tigers’ only win in the tournament was in their season opener against the Adamson Soaring Falcons on Oct. 1. NICOLE ANNE D.G. BUGAUISAN
in the EO to wear masks.
Earlier, Marcos removed the mask mandate for open spaces, outdoor areas, and crowded spaces with good ventilation, a move UST has adopted.
Fr. Nicanor Austriaco, O.P., a visiting professor at the UST Department of Biological Sciences, earlier told the Varsitarian that lifting the mask mandate should depend on people’s knowledge about protecting themselves against the
virus, such as getting vaccinated and booster shots and wearing masks if they are vulnerable.
According to the Department of Health, there were 17,907 active Covid-19 cases in the country as of Dec. 5.
More than 73.8 million Filipinos have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19. Of the number, more than 21 million have received their booster doses.
ALEXANDRA L. MANGASARThe UST Tiger Paddlers defended their title in the best-of-three finals of the UAAP Season 85 men’s table tennis tournament at the Makati Coliseum on Saturday, Nov. 26.
The Tiger Paddlers swept the Ateneo De Manila University Blue Eagles, 2-0, and posted 3-0 wins in both games.
UST’s duo of Al Sanchez and Prince Garcia swept Ateneo’s Mark Parman and Sean Uy in game 2 to secure their third straight crown, 11-5, 11-9, 11-8.
“Masaya kasi after two years, na-maintain natin yung championship kahit na meron tayong pinagdaanan na pandemic. Yung team mismo is talagang buo pa rin, na talagang idedefend natin yung championship title,” UST head coach Jackson Que told the Varsitarian UST team captain Alvin Sevilla trounced Andrew Uy, 11-3, 12-10, 11-8, before Tiger Paddler rookie Eljay Tormis beat Mahendra Cabrido in singles play,
11-8, 11-5, 5-11, 11-5.
The Sanchez-Garcia tandem pounded Ateneo’s Sean Uy and Zherdel Fresco, 11-13, 11-5, 12-10, 11-9, to complete UST’s first sweep.
Tiger Paddler Sevilla outlasted Cabrido in a thriller, 11-8, 8-11, 11-5, 7-11, 14-12, before UST’s Tormis made quick work of Wrency Abad in singles play, 117, 11-7, 11-7.
“From 10-6, deciding match, nahabol pa ako. Pero inisip ko nalang na gawin ko lang yung sinabi ni coach.
Gawin ko lang yung setup para makuha ko yung panalong ‘yon,” Sevilla told the Varsitarian
Coach Que credited the tight bond the Tiger Paddlers have formed over the years for the perfect season.
“‘Yung pagmamahal namin sa isa’t isa as a team, ‘yun talaga yung unang nagbuo sa amin. We are one for UST,” Que said.
In the juniors division, the boys'
team settled for second place after bowing to defending champions De La Salle-Santiago Zobel School, 0-2.
Sevilla and Tormis took home the Most Valuable Player award and Rookie of the Year plum, respectively, in the men’s division, while Jhiven Clamucha
The UST Female Tracksters were hailed champions of the UAAP Season 85 women’s and girls’ athletics tournaments at the Philspots Oval Pasig on Sunday, Dec.
4.
The Female Tracksters collected 307 points behind a 7-2-8 gold-silver-bronze medal haul to bag the title.
“This is one of the happiest championships ever na talagang hanggang dulo mahigpit ang laban,” UST head coach Manny Calipes told the Varsitarian
In the high-school division, the UST Junior Female Tracksters clinched their first UAAP girls’ athletics championship with 537 points, while their male counterparts claimed silver with 418 points.
Junior Trackster Jeanne Arnibal was hailed the girls’ Most Valuable Player as she clinched gold in the 100-meter hurdles, long jump, triple jump (new UAAP record), high jump and 4x100-meter relay.
Lyka Raterta took home Rookie of the Year honors after topping the 800-meter, 1500-meter and 3000-meter runs, and 5000-meter walk events.
The Junior Tracksters finished with an 18-19-15 gold-silver-bronze medal tally.
The UST Tiger Tracksters ended their men’s tournament campaign in fourth place with 173 points behind a 3-4-0 gold-silver-medal tally, an improvement from their 8th-place finish in Season 82.
BJORN DEL B. DEADEalso won the Rookie of the Year honors in the juniors divisions.
Meanwhile, the UST Lady Paddlers failed to defend their UAAP title after bowing down to the De La Salle University Lady Archers, 0-2, in the best of three finals of the Season 85 women’s table tennis tournament.
UST succumbed to DLSU in the first game, 1-3, before they got swept in the second game, 3-0.
UST rookie Kaye Encarnacion and Emery Digamon submitted to Angelou Laude and Jannah Romero, who qualified for the 2022 and 2019 Southeast Asian Games respectively, in singles play.
UST’s duo of team captain Ciara Derecho and Kathlyn Gabisay pounded Jhoana Go and Mariana Caoile, 11-5, 1210, 11-5, to give UST its lone win, before Julie De Leon lost to DLSU’s Kyla Bernaldez in the last singles match of game 1, 4-11, 4-11, 8-11.
In the second game, UST’s Leigh Villanueva succumbed to Kyla Bernaldez, 10-12, 12-10, 7-11, 8-11, before Digamon fell to DLSU’s Laude, 7-11, 11-8, 3-11, 3-11.
The Derecho-Gabisay tandem failed to conquer DLSU’s Go and Caoile this time, 4-11, 4-11, 12-10, 9-11, as the Lady Archers nabbed the gold.
UST head coach Lorinda Wadjad said she was satisfied with the result of the Lady Paddlers’ Season 85 campaign.
“Not bad for me. Not bad. I’m still thankful kahit second place. Talagang ganon, bilog ang bola. At least triny naman ng mga bata na manalo, ” she told the Varsitarian
In the juniors division, UST’s girls’ team notched the gold medal as they ousted the De La Salle-Santiago Zobel School in the finals, 2-0.
Junior Paddler Althea Gudes took home the Most Valuable Player and Rookie of the Year award. BJORN DEL B. DEADE
The UST Golden Shuttlers finished fourth, while their female counterparts finished fifth overall as they ended their respective runs in the UAAP Season 85 badminton tournaments at the Centro Atletico Badminton Center on Sunday, Nov. 13.
The Golden Shuttlers missed the podium after faltering against the University of the Philippines, 3-1.
Golden Shuttler Sean Dela Cruz outlasted Kevin Llanes in the singles match, 21-10, 12-21, 21-15, to snag UST’s lone win.
UP’s national player Jewel Albo and Jason Vanzuela dominated UST’s team captain Lanz Ramirez and Francis Sarmiento, 21-15, 21-17.
Albo swept UST’s Kyle Basilio, 21-10, 21-17.
Janzen Panisales and Ron Galve bowed down to UP’s Enzo Rivera and Kervin Llanes after a threeset thriller, 21-19, 12-21, 21-23.
The Golden Shuttlers ended their season with a 2-4 win-loss record while UP bagged the bronze with a 4-2 standing.
The last time UST won the men’s badminton championship was 12 years ago in UAAP Season 73 under then-head coach Noli Cajefe.
UST’s fourth-place finish, which was the team’s best since Season 80, was achieved under first-time head coach Charlie Medina.
“Maybe it is not yet our time but we did our very best till the end. The Tiger Shuttlers will come back to win this fight,” she said in a Facebook post.
Meanwhile, the UST Lady Shuttlers capped their season with a loss to the UP Fighting Maroons, 0-5.
UST’s duo of team captain Elij Peña and Clara Ignacio bowed down to UP’s rookie Anthea Gonzales and Andrea Abalos, 21-12, 21-14.
Gonzales dominated Peña in the singles match, 21-9, 21-6, while UST’s Charlize Belen fell to UP’s Susmita Ramos, 21-16, 21-9.
UP’s duo of UAAP Season 78 Rookie of the Year Lea Inlayo and Ramos overpowered UST’s Rhafi Santos and Jennifer Saladaga, 21-13, 21-16.
Inlayo finished the match with a sweep against UST’s Samantha Chozas, 21-14, 21-14.
UST ended the tournament with a 1-4 record, which was only better than the winless Adamson University.
lang, at hindi na kami gumagamit ng electric fan. Pero habang tumatagal… umiinit ang panahon…halos lahat ng classroom sa UST, naka-aircon na,” he added.
Aside from causing hotter temperatures, climate change is also causing sea levels to rise, threatening coastal communities, while extreme weather events such as typhoons, floods, and droughts are becoming more frequent and intense.
High CO2 emissions cause shifts in the polar vortex, which can cause changes in the climate by altering the jet stream, which is a fast-moving river of air that circles the globe.
When the polar vortex is strong, the jet stream is more tightly wound and tends to keep cold air locked in the Arctic. When the polar vortex weakens, the jet stream can become wavier and allow cold air to escape from the Arctic and move southward, bringing cold temperatures to areas that would normally be much warmer, which can cause extreme weather events such as heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures.
“Because of global warming, ‘pag umiinit, sumasabog ‘yung tinatawag na polar vortex na ‘yan, nadi-disrupt ‘yung pag-ikot niyan, kasi when the Earth rotates on its axis, sumasama
‘yung mga hangin diyan, mga wind currents,” he said.
“So ang climate extremes na nangyayari, nagiging sobrang lamig o sobrang init. But in the Philippines, we are experiencing a trend that is mainit na, umiinit pa ang klima natin dito,” he added.
In 2015, Pope Francis issued Laudato Si, an encyclical that was a call to action for all people of the world to take responsibility for the environment and for urgent action to protect it.
It called for a new global ecolog-
ical awareness and a new dialogue about how humans are shaping the future of our planet, and emphasized the need for an integral ecology, which recognizes the interconnectedness of all creation, a new economic model that is more sustainable and equitable, and a new approach to development that takes into account the needs of the poor and the environment.
Also recently, the United Nations Climate Change Conference or COP27 agreed to establish a “Loss and Damage Fund” to aid countries vulnerable to the climate crisis in their disaster response and resil-
ience efforts.
But for Garcia, the fund was merely a “band-aid solution to appease vulnerable countries.”
“What if ‘yung mga countries na sinasabi natin na developed, what if sila ang makaranas ng disaster dahil sa climate change? May maibibigay pa ba silang suporta o aid sa countries na nangangailangan kagaya ng Pilipinas?” he said.
“Pero ang trend ngayon, capitalism, engaged sa unsustainable practices, ‘yan ang nakakalungkot diyan. So let's prepare for the worst.,” he added. WITH REPORTS
FROM ADRIAN PARUNGAO