Vital Signs Newsletter November 2016-April 2017

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APRIL 2017

November 2016 - April 2017

Vol. XXVI No. II

TRIBUTE FOR THE GRAVELESS SOULS. With only the dim light of the candles to illuminate the facade of Roxas Hall, students of the West Visayas State University - College of Medicine stood in silence to remember the unnamed victims of injustice, December 9, 2016. PHOTO CREDIT: NATHANIEL LAURENCE J. NADALA

WVSU-COM mourns death of barrio doctor

by Melbert A. Parcon

The entire medical community across the Philippines laments for the senseless and merciless killing of Dr. Dreyfuss B. Perlas, Municipal Health Officer in Sapad, Lanao del Norte and alumnus of the West Visayas State University-College of Medicine (WVSU-COM) Batch 2011, after being shot dead on March 1, 2017 in Kapatagan, Lanao del Norte.

Remembering his meaningful contributions in health promotion, the WVSU-COM released an official statement

that condemns his untimely death and calls for the protection of doctors serving the marginalized communities in the country.

Faculty, staff, and students from WVSU-COM, led by the Dean Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, also extended their sympathies and condolences to the late doctor’s family as they visited Dr. Perlas’ home in Batan, Aklan on March 9, 2017, paying tribute to his selfless acts of caring the underserved people. “At a very young age, Dreyfuss has

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Students cry justice for human rights victims

by Leodel T. Barrio

In response to the alarming increase in the rate of extra judicial killings, the burial of former President Ferdinand Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani and the threat of martial law of the present government, students of West Visayas State University – College of Medicine held a candle lighting ceremony to remember victims of crimes against human rights last December 9, 2016.

The ceremony was preceded by a talk that featured Philippine human rights advocates Atty. Rene Estocapio and Atty.

Leeboy Garachico providing information

regarding martial law and its effects to society. Atty. Elias Guilloreza, a victim of the Marcos regime, narrated his account of abduction and torture during of martial law. Dr. Kristin Louise Treñas, leader of the “Marcos is not a hero movement” Panay chapter, stressed that as doctors, our profession should be protecting our society. “We as doctors, we are healers, let’s heal our land,” says Dr. Treñas.

The candle lighting ceremony was held outside of Roxas Hall. Although they were (to page 3)

FACE OF A FALLEN HERO. Dr. Dreyfuss Perlas was mercilessly shot by an unknown assassin in Lanao del Norte.

PHOTO CREDIT: DR. MARCOS BITO-ONON

Taga-West doctors shine in March 2017 PLE

by Melbert A. Parcon

Keeping up with its end to produce compassionate and competent doctors, the WVSU-College of Medicine embraces its 13 new doctors who passed the March 2017 Physicians’ Licensure Examinations (PLE) out of its 16 aspirants, garnering an overall performance rating of 81.25%. Of the (to page 2)

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News

APRIL 2017

VS returns to COPRE; bags awards

by Jireh Marielle C. Zaragoza

After taking a decade of hiatus, Vital Signs, the official student publication of the West Visayas State University-College of Medicine triumphantly returns to the College Press Conference (COPRE) on November 25, 2016 at Iloilo Grand Hotel, garnering several awards: 3rd Best Departmental Paper, 5th Best Newsletter, 4th Best Editorial Page, and 5th Best Filipino page.

Two staff members, Leodel T. Barrio, and Mary Francine B. Alfabeto were recognized

Medical students partake in research development

by Christabelle B. Prebillo

Proving that research is indeed fun and not confined on the four walls of Roxas Hall, second year med students attended an Academic Talk by Dr. Joon Kim of Korea University, December 2, 2016 at West Visayas State University Audio-Visual Hall.

The College of Arts and Sciences Graduate School Academic Talk and International Linkaging headed by the program leader, Dr. Agatha Z. Senina in collaboration with the University Research and Development Center, presented an academic talk by Dr. Kim underlining that with improvements in technology and given our limited resources, linking networks and collaborating with other institutions is of great significance.

Dr. Kim, a professor in the Division of Life Sciences and the director of management safety in Korea University came at his own expense to share his expertise on research being able to publish 160 international papers.

Multiple roles of ribosomal proteins with respect to DNA repair, cancer and other diseases was discussed as well as international cooperation programs of national research fund and life sciences in Korea and the relationship between the bible and science.

The program was also participated by students from the Philippine Science High School.

Taga-West doctors ... from page 1 successful Taga-West passers, 11 were firsttimers and two were repeaters.

The Professional Regulation Commission has released the results of the March 2017 PLE on March 16 2017, welcoming 813 new physicians who passed from a pool of 1,317 examinees, hitting a national passing percentage of 61.73%.

The March 2017 PLE given by the Board of Medicine was held in the cities of Manila, Baguio, Cebu, and Zamboanga on March 5, 6, 12, and 13, 2017.

for their exceptional writing abilities. Barrio won 2nd place for Feature Writing-English and 3rd place for Editorial Writing-English, while Alfabeto won 2nd place for Editorial Writing-English.

A total of 92 student publications all over Western Visayas submitted their official DOCTORS WHO ARE WRITERS. The editorial staff of the Vital entries weeks prior to the said Signs showed their journalistic prowess during the College Press event with over 300 individuals Conference held last November 25, 2016 at Iloilo Grand Hotel. expected to attend the on-the- PHOTO CREDIT: LEODEL T. BARRIO Considered a prestigious venue for spot journalism contests and the customary Mr. and Ms. COPRE pageant. Unfortunately, recognizing student publications, the participants from Negros Island were not COPRE is an annual assembly of student able to attend due to cancelled trips brought journalists in the Region and is hosted by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA). about by Tropical Storm Marce.

COM student orgs dominate SMOCCSOP 2017

by Leodel T. Barrio

Embodying the core values of service, harmony, and excellence, student organizations from the College of Medicine, including the Order of Asclepius (OA), Asian Medical Students’ Association – West Visayas State University (AMSAWVSU), and Vital Signs garnered awards in the Search for the Most Outstanding College Council, Student Organization and Publication (SMOCCSOP) of the University, announced last March 17, 2017.

OA and AMSA were proclaimed the Most Outstanding Student Organizations, taking the first and second places respectively,

while Vital Signs won second place in the Most Outstanding Student Publication.

Moreover, OA won Best in Community and Health and Best in Student Advocacy and Development, while AMSA-WVSU was hailed Best in Social Awareness and Reform.

This is the second year that the top two spots were awarded to COM student organizations. Furthermore, this is OA’s fourth consecutive win in first place.

SMOCCSOP is an annual event organized by the University Student Council in order to recognize the best performing student organizations in the University.

WVSU-COM mourns ... from page 1

achieved so much and made very significant contributions in pushing for health equity in his assigned municipality. He literally put his life on the line just to make sure that his services and help would make a difference,” shared Dr. Villaruz.

Unearthing his Footsteps Dr. Perlas initially worked in Sapad, Lanao del Norte, a fifth –class municipality with a current population of 21,892, as a Doctor to the Barrio for two years (20122014) before the Local Government Unit of the said municipality offered him a position as a Municipal Health Officer, building the healthcare system block by block.

Having revolutionized patient care in a disadvantaged municipality, Dr. Dreyfuss started his vocation by facilitating the accreditation for a Primary Care Benefit 1, Directly Observed Treatment ShortCourse chemotherapy for Tuberculosis (TB-DOTS), Maternity Care Package, and Newborn Screening, along with the renovation of the municipality’s rural health unit and provision of health kits to every barangay in 2015.

Maternal and Child Health and Nutrition (MCHN) was given prime importance, leading to the adoption of facility-based delivery of pregnant women in labor, mandatory immunization of children five years old and below, and Infant and Young Child Feeding in December 2015.

With the institutionalization of Municipal Epidemiologic and Surveillance Unit during his term, the municipality of Sapad also saw the improvement in the case detection and cure rates of tuberculosis and the mass drug administration for schistosomiasis.

His project, Total Risk Approach in the Community-Based Hypertension Control Program indicated a steady increase in the prevalence of hypertension, prompting him to initiate a self-report form entitled, “Puso Ko, Puso Mo, Babantayan Ko” that monitors the vital signs, body mass index (BMI), lifestyle modifications employed, and medication changes of hypertensive patients.

His remains were interred on March 10, 2017, but his contributions in the society marked an advancement in the health of the people he has loved and served.

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News

APRIL 2017

U Week 2017: WVSU awards agents of passionate service

by Iris Dawn D. Tabangcora

In celebration of unwavering passion and the committment to serve, West Visayas State University (WVSU) gathered its administrators, faculty, and staff for the convocation and awarding ceremony held at WVSU Cultural Center last January 26, 2017.

A warm opening message of appreciation

by Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, Dean of College of Medicine, kickstarted the program and left the audience empowered and inspired to continue the strong service ethics the institution takes pride of.

Highlighting the importance of understanding ourselves and its impacts to what we do in this world, Nicanor Jesus P. Perlas III, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Undersecretary, gave a talk about the 21st Century New Science and the Reality of Spirit. The talk higlighted the profound and unprecedented challenges facing humanity and the rising technological singularity aiming for artifical superintelligence as the next dominant

THE HUMAN CONDITION. Undersecretary Perlas emphasized that the understanding of ourselves is important in the impact of what we do to the world. PHOTO CREDIT: LEODEL T. BARRIO

species. Usec. Perlas III encouraged WVSU to pursue creativity as it is difficult to mechanize unlike logic and consciousness.

The University President, Luis M. Sorolla, Jr. Ph.D., also gave his State of the University Address emphasizing on the university’s achievements.

MedSymphony partners with USA for ‘Tiklado’

by Aloe Danica B. Deala

MedSymphony collaborated with the Conservatory of Music of the University of San Agustin (USA) in Tiklado, a piano concert held at Roxas Hall, February 11, 2017 The one-hour concert treated the audience to classical music rendered by a group of pianists from USA that included Joseph Romeo Alfaras, Dave Anthony Balsicas, Evelyn Bellote, Elmar Jan Bolaño, Jhon Christian Cerafica, and Paul Patron.

People who attended the concert were enthusiastic with their response to the performances. “These people have amazing talent! I learned to appreciate classical music like never before” says Chris, a medical student. “With each performance, I felt like I was transported to another place and time” he added.

Overall, the concert was successful in its ultimate goal of creating friendship and building partnership. Moreover, the organizers shared that this event also was able to influence the perception of people with regard to music. “Music is more than just an art,” stated Gerardo Vicente A. Muyuela, the Academic Supervisor of USA’s Conservatory of Music. “It is more than the songs played on the radio, and more than a random combination of notes It’s more than just talent. It is also a science and a systematic profession that must be learned.”

‘Tiklado’ comes from a Filipino dialect which roughly translates to a ‘keyboard’ or more specifically, its keys which resonate to make a harmonious sound.

MUSIC AND MEDICINE. Uniting souls through music, MedSymphony harmonized with the Universiy of San Agustin-Conservatory of Music as they rendered classical piano concert that brought their audience into a timeless experience. PHOTO CREDIT: MEDSYMPHONY

Vital Signs honors winners for MedScenes, Medi Cine

by Mary Francine B. Alfabeto

The victors of the annual Medi Cine Film Festival and MedScenes Photography Contest were announced during the Medicine Night held at Hotel Del Rio last November 29, 2016.

With the theme of “Change is Coming: Physicians as Advocates of Social Change”, a total of 5 short films for Medi Cine and 13 photos for MedScenes competed.

For Medi Cine, Horror film ‘Oyayi’ emerged as the favorite, winning Best Picture, Best Editing and Best Actress for Ellani Louise Huilar. Romantic tragedy “Joy in Medicine” bagged second place for Best Picture, while also winning for Best Supporting Actress for Vanessa Aura Yunque’s performance and Best Directors to Yunque and John Arthur Mabaquiao.

“Isip”, a film about Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, won third place for Best Picture and Best Actor award for Vyron Kim Durana. Finally, “Nat,” a film about suicide, gave John Kevin Arrivas a surprise win for Best Supporting Actor.

Three winners for the Medscenes were selected from three categories: “Footsteps of hope” by Karen Nang for the Face of a “taga-west doctor”, “We die a little bit each day” by Regine Divinagracia for Medical Student Life, and “The Double Helix Staircase by Giuseppe Momo” by Mary Francine Alfabeto for the Freedom category. The latter was also selected through online voting as the People’s Choice.

The contest, sponsored by the Vital Signs Publication, is aimed toward the showcase of varied talents and capabilities in the field of photography and film with emphasis on the promotion of awareness of various issues in the field of medicine.

Students cry ... from page 1 not yet born during the time, med students were given the opportunity to share their own experiences relating to human rights.

Kai Heredia shared how martial law has affected her family. “I come from a family of activists, I still have uncles that are missing to this day” while Jessica Danielle Datoon who comes from war -torn Mindanao, calls for peace in the country. “I hope that we learned from history that violence is not the way, we shouldn’t rewrite history and accept that what happened in the past really happened” she said.

The talk and candle lighting ceremony was organized by the Asian Medical Students Association – West Visayas State University in cooperation with the Marcos is Not A Hero Movement – Panay Chapter.

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Opinion

APRIL 2017

The Official Student Publication of West Visayas State University - College of Medicine La Paz, Iloilo City MELBERT A. PARCON Editor-in-Chief LEODEL T. BARRIO Managing Editor ALOE DANICA B. DEALA Associate Editor IRIS DAWN D. TABANGCORA CHRISTELLE A. VILLANUEVA News Editors ERREL VIN D. ARBOLEDA ARCHIEVAL S. GUITCHE Opinion Editors MARY FRANCINE B. ALFABETO PHILIP G. BALOGO MARK ANTHONY P. CELESTIAL JIREH MARIELLE C. ZARAGOZA Feature Editors MYLENE GRACE D. GONZAGA CHRISTABELLE B. PREBILLO Filipino Editors NEIL A. CARTUJANO TULIP JAN T. MICARANDAYO Sports Editors ANGELO BRYAN T. BUCQUIAL Editorial Cartoonist CHARLES JEBB B. JUANITAS CHARISSE ANN M. MONSALE JADE MARIE M. SOBREPEÑA Photojournalists MELANIE JANE A. TENDENCIA, M.D., MPA, FPSMID, FPASMAP Adviser JOSELITO F. VILLARUZ, M.D., FPPS Dean GIOVANNI A. DELOS REYES, M.D., FPCS, FPSGS Vice President for Medical and Allied Sciences LUIS M. SOROLLA, Ph.D. President

Editorial The 1987 Constitution gives prime importance to the life of its people, along with the protection of their rights and dignity. As such, it openly renounces death penalty in the Philippines and puts emphasis on the due process of law. Although the Constitution is specific in its terms, it gives the Congress the authority to impose capital punishment “for compelling reasons involving heinous crimes.” In 1993, a radical move was made and Republic Act 7659 was passed into law enumerating 46, later increased to 52, heinous crimes punishable by death. It was only in 2006 when Republic Act 9346 was passed abandoning the previous law, thereby prohibiting death penalty. This is where the country currently stands. However, earlier this year, the Congress drafted a bill that brings back the imposition of death penalty. And here’s another rub, at least 15 crimes were exempted from such penalty, stating, they are not in the first place, “heinous.”

It seems that the only basic justification for death penalty is payment for the innocent life that was spilled in its cruelest form. A murderer took the poor soul of a victim with evident premeditation; he only deserves to die in the hands of the State.

An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth. While this dictum was used as the governing principle during the Carthaginian era in instilling discipline to their citizenry, it cannot be used in matters like this. Otherwise, the human race will just return to its primitive, uncivilized, and barbaric ways with no organized system of rules. True, this will never make up totally for the misery of the victim’s loved ones. But what difference could have been made if another life was taken as payment.

Another appeal of the death penalty lies in its expected deterrence effect. If the punishment is great enough, people will choose to forego their criminal plans. The law may be harsh, but it is the law. But is it really worth it? Studies have actually shown that even though death penalty was imposed, no significant drop was noted as to the level of criminality in the country. It would only create more disparity in the justice system, as criminals tend to have well-established plans in creating their crimes, and hence, they believe they have ways to get away with murder.

Most importantly, no man is perfect. Not even the judge has a clean slate. Imposing death penalty as a means of payment or instilling discipline will never serve the justice the public yearns for. It should be remembered that no one will ever escape the final judgment day. After all, “He who is without sin shall cast the first stone.”

Death penalty is deeply incompatible with human dignity. It is a violation of the right to life and the absolute prohibition of torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. There could be no crueler punishment than death itself.

APRIL 2017

Opinion

On Revolutionary Medicine Cuban healthcare received global praise and was even lauded by the WHO for achieving universal health coverage.

President Duterte himself was impressed and even endorsed Health Secretary Pauline Ubial to study the welfare service of the Caribbean island nation.

Following the Cuban Revolution of 1959, only 3000 doctors chose to stay in their homeland. The paradoxical goal of its leaders then was to do much more with much less. Disabled by the exodus of almost half of the country’s doctors, those who stayed developed a consciousness, perceiving themselves as a piece of a much broader social transformation.

To bring cohesion to the fragmented system, the Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP) was established. Doctors from the urban areas renounced private practice and stayed with peasant farmers to serve the rural areas. With them are thousands of students who taught reading and writing to about 700, 000 people along the countryside, reducing illiteracy to zero and improving health education.

Better case monitoring and data collection initially revealed an increase in infant mortality, but eventually paved the way for evidence-based practice. Annual surprise home visits provided comprehensive reports of patient histories, highlighting the social determinants of health.

Pressure Points Philip G. Balogo To supply the demand, free tuition concentrated the recruitment of medical students based on academic merit alone.

The curriculum focused more on social medicine and hands-on experience in polyclinics where family physicians and specialists teamed up to give comprehensive community-based care.

The eventual shift from curative to preventive medicine improved and maintained good health indicators.

The programs focused on vulnerable populations and common diseases: maternal and child health, infectious diseases, chronic noncommunicable diseases, and older adult health. By the mid 1980s, Cuba implemented the universal access to primary care essential to achieve “Health for All,” enunciated by the 1978 Alma Ata declaration.

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Five decades since the revolution, Cuba nowadays boasts a free public health service, a 1:150 doctor-patient ratio, a life expectancy of 79 years, a 4.5/1000 infant mortality rate, and in 2015 became the first nation in the world to officially eliminate the mother-tochild transmission of HIV. With this long history of innovations, the question remains whether the Philippines could hope to achieve the same. Secretary Ubial emphasized, in response to rumors of budget slashing as a tradeoff for Oplan Tokhang, that the 2017 health budget will actually be higher than the defense budget for the first time in the country’s history. But as stressed by the WHO, it is lack of political will rather than lack of resources that leads to ineffective healthcare delivery.

As what Cuba have shown, sufficient resources and legislative decree by themselves are not enough to achieve the desired transformation. There is a need for systemic mobilization, a need to work as a cohesive force and not as isolated movements; a revolutionary government hand in hand with revolutionary healthcare givers.

As what Che Guevara, a major figure of the Cuban Revolution said, “For one to be a revolutionary doctor or to be a revolutionary at all, there must first be a revolution. Isolated individual endeavor, for all its purity of ideals, is of no use, and the desire to sacrifice an entire lifetime to the noblest of ideals serves no purpose if one works alone.”

Women Empowerment in a World That Can’t Stop Resisting Countless movements have given birth to visibly increasing societal opportunities for women in most parts of the world. While more women are redefining their individuality and roles, there are also those who are silenced in their corners for far too long that their muscles ache from disuse and their mouths dry for not being allowed to speak. For as long as there are women who are deprived of rights equal to men, empowering women to stand up for themselves remains to be an unfinished business in human history.

Women empowerment have taken so many forms in centuries and truth be told, the process have taken so much from women trailblazers. Essentially, a society where men and women are equal partners towards economic, political, social, and cultural developments is the core of what women empowerment is all about. Unfortunately, it has become synonymous with man-hating and with the notion that the rise of women means the fall of men. Thus, an envisioned enabling

Imprints Iris Dawn D. Tabangcora environment for women empowerment is far from stability and is in dire need of compassionate and harmonized actions and networks for gender equality.

The place of women in the society would involve archives of religion, philosophy, and ageless discussions of culture and tradition. These have affected how women are viewed in the society and have contributed on setting the limits of what they can do and the only level that they are allowed to reach. However,

women in all levels of various capacities (e.g. government, academe, private sectors, etc.) are all in a collective effort, collaboration, and participation to make sure that no woman is left behind in this pursuit for equal human rights. To this day, women refused to be hidden figures and are pushing for them to be known by their names. Women fight for their right to decide for their own bodies.

Women make patriarchal authorities uncomfortable because they refuse to be just pretty and well-dressed. Women take CEO jobs, assume leadership roles, and thrive well in otherwise male-dominated fields. Women just stop feeling guilty over everything that stops them from wanting free speech and for being freely sexual and serious.

While there are advancements, there is more that needs to be done. More women have yet to see the limitless sky.

While there are female leaders, female bosses, and even an international day to celebrate women, then, the job here is not done.

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Filipino

APRIL 2017

Ang Mahusay na Mamumuno

Tatlong taong pagsusunog ng kilay at pakikibaka sa loob ng silid-aralan. Isang taong pagbibigay serbisyo at pagsasanay sa panggagamot ng mga pasyente ng ospital at pamayanan. Sumatutal, ito’y apat na taong paggugol ng oras at kaalaman sa Kolehiyo ng Medisina upang maging isang ganap na dakilang duktor. Pero sa likod ng bawat estudyanteng ito ay mga gurong duktor na gumagabay at bumabahagi ng kanilang kaalaman sa kani-kaniyang mga pinagdalubhasaan, at sa likod ng bawat guro ay ang isang dean na tatayong ama o ina at magiging haligi ng kolehiyo. Ang dean na siyang magsisilbing boses ng nasasakupang kolehiyo sa ibang mga kawani, kapwa dean, kalihim, bise-presidente at presidente ng kinabibilangang unibersidad.

At dahil maaaring umalis at rumetiro na sa posisyon ang kasalukuyang dean ng West Visayas State University-Kolehiyo ng Medisina (WVSU-COM), nararapat lamang na talakayin natin ang usaping ukol sa magiging bagong dean ng nasabing kolehiyo. Ang unang sumasagi sa isipan ng bawat isa sa atin ay kung ano nga ba ang mga angking katangian ng isang tunay na magaling na dean.

Talakayan Mylene Grace D. Gonzaga Siyempre, karapat-dapat na pumasa ang kaniyang mga kredensyal sa masusing pagsisiyasat ng administrasyon ng unibersidad. Datapwat hindi lamang ang magandang curriculum vitae ang batayan upang masasabi nating magiging mahusay ang pamamalakad ng isang dean.

Bilang kasalukuyang estudyante ng Medisina, masasabi kong ang isang dean ay kailangang alam kung ano ang plano niyang mangyari para sa kolehiyong nasasakupan. Mga planong paunlarin ang kolehiyo, hindi lamang ang pag-aayos ng pasilidad at imprastraktura nito, pero pati na rin ang mas maiging pagpapabuti sa curriculum ng mga estudyante.

Kinakailangan ding marunong makisama ang dean sa iba’t ibang klase ng mga tao. Dapat siyang makipagsalamuha ng maayos sa lahat, kahit na mayaman man ito o mahirap, may kapangyarihan man o wala.

Kumbaga, mahusay siyang makipag-usap at makipag-ugnayan kahit sino pa ang taong nasa kanyang harapan.

Kanais-nais din na mapagkumbaba ang isang dean. Kung nagkamali man ito, madali niyang matanggap ang maling nagawa at handa niya itong baguhin upang ito’y itama.

Bagkus ay magiging isnpirasyon niya ang mga maling desisyon upang mapabuti ang kaniyang pamamalakad sa kolehiyo.

Nais nating lahat na ang ating bagong dean ay tapat, mabait, masipag, hindi mahirap puntahan at kausapin at marami pang iba, ngunit lagi nating pakatatandaan na ang isang magaling na lider ay kumakailangan din ng mga mabubuti at masunuring taga-suporta sa kaniyang nasasakupan.

Kaya nga sinuman ang pipiliing bagong ¬dean ng Kolehiyo ng Medisina, lahat tayo ay dapat na sumuporta at laging nakaakibat sa kanya para sa ikauunlad at ikabubuti ng ating pinakamamahal na Kolehiyo.

A, B, C: Tamang gabay sa Sex Education ni Mylene Grace D. Gonzaga

Mahigit walong libo (8,000) ang mga Pilipinong nasa edad na dalawampu’t limang (25) taong gulang pababa ang mayroong Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/ AIDS) ayon sa istatistika ng Kagawaran ng Kalusugan (DOH) sa nakaraang Enero 2011 hanggang Hunyo 2016.

Ayon naman sa Philippine Statistics Authority noong 2014, isa sa bawat sampung babaeng Pilipino na may edad labinglima hanggang labingsiyam (15-19) na taon ay buntis o isa nang ganap na ina.

Dahil sa pagtaas ng kaso ng HIV/AIDS at pababang edad ng mga nabubuntis sa bansa, ang DOH ay nais na ipanukala ang libreng pamimigay ng mga condom sa lahat ng mga pampublikong paaralan. Ang programang ito ay naglalayong ipaabot sa mga kabataan ang malayang sex education at itaas ang kanilang kaalaman sa HIV/AIDS. Layunin din ng programang ito na ituro sa mga kabataan kung ano ang ABC framework: “Abstinence, Being faithful and Condom use.”

Dagdag pa ni Sec. Ubial, Kalihim ng DOH, ang pinakamataas na prayoridad ng kanilang adbokasiya ay ang “Abstinence” o pag-iwas sa maagang sexual debut ng mga kabataan at kung hindi nila ito magagawa, “Be faithful” o magkaroon na lang daw ng isang partner.

C ay paggamit ng “Condom” na siyang pinakahuling paraan ng proteksiyon sa sarili laban sa HIV/AIDS at hindi planadong pagbubuntis kung hindi na talaga maiiwasan

ang maagang pagtatalik. Sinuman ang makakatanggap ng condom ay magkakaroon din ng counseling at sex education mula sa mga gurong isasanay ng DOH. Upang maisakatuparan ang lahat ng ito, nakipag-ugnayan ang DOH sa Kagawaran ng Edukasyon (DepEd). Ngunit hindi rin natuloy ang plano ng DOH sapagkat ayon sa DepEd, ang mga estudyante sa hayskul ay mga menor de edad at kailangan ang pahintulot ng magulang na magsasang-ayon sa pamimigay ng mga condom sa kanilang mga anak.

Tinutulan din ng ibang konserbatibo at relihiyosong grupo, partikular na ang Simbahang Katolika, ang nasabing programa ng DOH. Naniniwala ang mga lider ng simbahan na ito’y lalong magdudulot ng pagdami ng mga kabataan na gumagawa ng premarital o extramarital sex. Mas angkop daw na maiging palawakin ang kaalaman ukol sa HIV/AIDS para maiwasan ang paglaganap nito kaysa sa pagmumudmod ng condom sa mga kabataan.

Ang suhestiyong ipalaganap na lang muna ang kaalaman sa HIV/AIDS ay kanais-nais ngunit alam naman natin na ang mga kabataan ngayon ay mas maraming nakukuhang samu’t saring impormasyon sa pamamagitan ng makabagong teknolohiya.

Maaaring ang mga impormasyong ito ay makakatulong sa kanilang pag-iwas sa unprotected sex pero maaari rin namang sila ay maganyak na gawin ang kanilang nakikita o nababasa sa internet. Kaya

nga mas lalo silang nangangailangan ng masinsinang gabay sa pagtuklas ng mga sensitibong topiko tulad ng sex, HIV/AIDS at maagang pagbubuntis.

Ang wastong impormasyon tungkol sa mga sensitibong topikong ito ay dapat na ibahagi ng mga gurong talagang sinanay sa tamang pagturo ng sex education. Ngunit hindi lang ang mga guro ang may papel sa pagtuturo sa mga kabataang ito. Kailangan ding tumulong ng mga magulang sa wastong paggabay ng kanilang mga anak, lalong lalo na’t sila ang nakakasama ng mga ito pagkagaling sa eskwelahan. Nararapat lang na maging sensitibo at may alam ang mga magulang ukol sa usaping sex upang maipaabot nila ang wastong impormasyon sa kanilang mga anak.

Kaya nga ang lahat, maging guro, magulang o sino ka mang miyembro ng komunidad, ay dapat na hinihimok na magsanay sa tamang pagturo ng sex education. Tayong lahat ay may responsibilidad na gumabay at tumulong na ipalaganap ang wastong sex education hindi lang sa ating mga kabataan, kundi pati na rin sa lahat ng mga kakilala nating ginagawa ang unsafe o unprotected sex.

Alam kong masyadong matayog ang ninanais kong ito na mangyari sa ating lipunan.

Ito’y mga pangyayaring makikita lang talaga natin sa isang perpektong mundo. Subalit wala rin namang mawawala kung ito’y ating susubukang gawin at abutin, ‘di ba?

APRIL 2017

West Med

VOICES OF ROXAS HALL

As a medical student, what is your stand about the Extra Judicial Killings in this nation?

IAN LEOJ GUMBAN

Aside from the fact that we, as medical students strive to save lives in the future, which on its own contradicts the senseless loss of lives in EJKs, these killings rob from us the opportunity to serve people from all walks of life. Medicine calls us to serve humanity therefore this unfair betrayal of human life is against our calling. Moreover, the uncertainty that even us are not safe from them is disheartening.

ANGELICA KATRINA HEREDIA As future doctors, we hold a big responsibility and a huge arm to the struggle of the masses in preserving the right to health and the right to life. We should be concerned about and condemn the unabated extrajudicial killings in this country, not merely because as humans we should be compassionate, but also because our profession demands it. Who would understand more the devastation of the deaths and illnesses caused by their struggles, but us doctors?

GENESSA BUENAFE As a medical student, we learn every single day how to save people from injuries and diseases that cripples humanity. The act of killing one’s own kind in an unjust way, troubles me and almost disgusts me. The principle of medicine may be far from law and politics but what is inhumane should be known by every single Filipino. We are not animals and we are created rational. It’s about time we act rational.

JOHN REX BALTAZAR Killing has never been a kind of punishment that’s fair and due for an individual. extrajudicial killings has become a shame on our government that strives to clean itself but finds no other way that’s fast and cheap. for me, extra judicial killings are nothing but putting more problems into our drowning society. those criminals need to be tried, to be rehabilitated not to be killed.

FRANCINE NICOLE ARANETA The war on drugs is not mainly a war against crime and people.

The government must understand that this is also a public health issue and a social problem as

well. As medical students, we should be in the forefront in promoting alternatives to this case and in upholding human rights of every citizen in need – whether it be a drug user or not.

KYLE BRIAN HABARADAS I am completely against EJK especially when it involves the marginalized of society.

Everyone deserves justice but I don’t think such exists if drug criminals are still being killed incessantly. It’s time for our nation to heal but not through the loss of innocent lives by bloodbath...

JESHER JOSHUA ARSENIO EJKs should never be condoned. It strips people off their right to live before they are rightfully tried.

We shouldn’t be looking at people solely through their presumptive crimes, just as we future medical practitioners shouldn’t look at our patients solely through their diseases.

VANESSA AURA YUNQUE As a medical student, I believe we should all condemn EJKs and see them for what they truly are: blatant murders and not as punishment justly served, as no one should be above the law. We constantly struggle to preserve life and tolerating a culture of death and violence will only make that impossible.

ZENNIA PATRICE CABRIETO As medical students, we were ingrained with the principles of beneficence and non maleficence.

Simply put, to help others and to do no harm.

EJKs contradict these. A merciless means to an end coming from the government is a disappointment.

MILROSE MACERO

When we think of peace, particularly for this country, we often think of an image of a perfectly calm lake, a stillness in which there is no movement at all. However, for me, the peace that we want to see in this country is the ending of strife and conflict, not by the unjust termination of one’s life, but by creating a harmony within our ownselves.

7 Official Statement of the West Visayas State University College of Medicine on the Murder of DR. DREYFUSS B. PERLAS The West Visayas State University College of Medicine condemns in the strongest possible terms the repugnant killing of our beloved alumnus, Dr. Dreyfuss B. Perlas (Class 2011) in Lanao del Norte on March 1, 2017. Dr. Drey dedicated his five short years as a physician tending to the underserved people of Sapad, Lanao del Norte and nearby municipalities.

Many marvel why he dared to go (and stay) where most others fear to tread, but we who know him believe that for Dr. Drey, that is simply the way things should be. Shunning fame and fortune as a student and as a medical practitioner, the ever humble doctor in now a hero of the medical profession because he lived what many of us could only dream of but were too weak to even try – a life of sacrifice and selflessness for the Filipino.

Our collective grief in the aftermath of his senseless murder is somehow tempered by the enormous pride we feel in being part of his education as a doctor and as a human being. He, probably without his even realizing it, personified the ideals enshrined in our College’s mission-vision statement: to produce a community of physicians who are socially accountable, enlightened, and professionally competent, committed to deliver primary health care with compassion, and devoted to serve the health needs of the Filipino people. Such words would be empty palaver were it not for lives actually lived by idealistic dreamers like Dr. Drey.

The WVSU College of Medicine condoles with the family and friends of Dr. Drey in this time of deep sorrow. The only assurance we can give them is that this act of utter abomination would not cow us from more strongly dedicating our effort towards fulfilling our avowed mission - to bring forth physicians who will fearlessly answer the call of the distant hills and treacherous waters where many Filipinos live unnoticed, unserved and uncared for.

In so doing, we seek to honor the life and the ideals of Dr. Dreyfuss B. Perlas.

We are calling on the people tasked with ensuring the safety of all Filipinos to bring to justice all those responsible for this atrocity. Dr. Drey tempted the fates because he believed in the system.

The same system should not fail him by allowing monsters who cowardly lurk in the darkness to use the cold precision of a bullet to perpetuate evil by executing the good.

8

News

Med goes Hollywood for Medicine Night ‘16

by Iris Dawn D. Tabangcora West Visayas State University medical students played each other’s Fairy Godmother in last year’s Medicine Night with the theme “Stressed but Well-Dressed” all in a night’s mantra of beauty, magic, and transformation. More than just a short break from intensive studying, students of all levels, led by the Medicine Student Council (MSC), gathered to conclude Med Hinampang as well as Literary and Musical Contest by awarding the winners of various events. Winners for Human Biology Project 2016 were named too.

A variety of competing events were conducted in-between awarding conducted by the MSC and other organizations. The night was brought to life by the highlights which included Battle of the Bands, Disco Derby, and Mess Medisin 2016. The Class of 2018, Batch Medicus Devoveo, is a giant force to reckon with as they seized this school year’s over-all champion title.

MSC President Lourdes Galacan ended the event by expressing her appreciation for the students’ support and cooperation as well as her awe for the college’s pool of creativity, skills, and talent.

Med Night 2016 was held last November 29, 2016 at Hotel Del Rio, Molo, Iloilo City.

APRIL 2017

AMSA enthused HIV/AIDS advocacy via ‘Catharsis’

by Iris Dawn D. Tabangcora

A constant threat of discrimination plagues the life of every person with HIV/ AIDS in the Philippines. In 2015, 25% of new diagnosed cases was from Iloilo City.

Set to establish a culture of unconditional support to people with HIV/AIDS, the Asian Medical Students Association (AMSA) Standing Committee on Reproductive Health including HIV/AIDS (SCORA) dedicated an open mic night entitled, ‘Catharsis’ held at Fuel.ph last December 2, 2016. This is in line with the celebration of World AIDS Day. Trisha Pamela Oquendo, AMSA President, welcomed the advocates who were all giddy for a night of creative purging.

Riddled with series of song and poetry reading, the activity also invited HIV/ AIDS advocates from other affiliations for testimonials. Awarding for the photography contest of the same cause was conducted.

UNHEARD SONGS AND TALES. AMSA -WVSU staged an open mic night, ‘Catharsis’ sketching the struggles of people living with HIV/AIDS as they battle with stigma. PHOTO CREDIT: LEODEL T. BARRIO

“Global HIV stigma is something that is overlooked. Here in SCORA, we believe that stigma is something that we all can wipe out.

We hope to make this open mic a tradition, a symbolic home call to all HIV/AIDS patients and their loved ones,” Zennia Cabrieto, SCORA Committee Head said.

COM sets emergency preparedness drills

by Melbert A. Parcon

DUCK, COVER, HOLD. Young doctors imbibe the safety protocols that should be observed should unforeseen phenomena such as earthquake and fire disaster occur. PHOTO CREDIT: MR. JERRY BIONAT

THE LONG WALK. The Dean Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz (left) and the Medicine Student Council Chairperson Ma. Lourdes Galacan (right) parade the banners of the College as they led Team WVSU in the Association of Philippine Medical Colleges-National Convention, February 7, 2017.

PHOTO CREDIT: APMC

To ensure preparedness and risk reduction in the face of natural disasters, the College of Medicine, in cooperation with the West Visayas State University Center for Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (WVSU-CDRRM), conducted fire and earthquake lecture and drill at the Roxas Hall on March 16, 2017.

Stressing the importance of disaster preparedness programs in the Philippines, Mr. Jerry V. Bionat, Provincial Government Department Head of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, led off the seminar with a discussion on the Republic Act 10121 otherwise known as Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Act of 2010, which mandates the strengthening of disaster management in the Philippines. He also conducted the lecture on earthquake and the preemptive measures that must be observed during such phenomenon.

Meanwhile, Senior Fire Officer (SFO) 1 Antonio Escobido from the Bureau of Fire

Protection enlightened the medical students on fire disasters, emphasizing adherence to standard fire prevention and safety measures as foremost in the protection of life and property against destructive fires, as dictated by the Republic Act 9514 otherwise known as the Revised Fire Code of the Philippines of 2008.

Prof. Berlouie Baga-an, CDRRM Officerin-Charge, in cooperation with the College of Medicine and the Ground Servicing Office (GSO) staged the earthquake and fire drills that cover alarming, reporting of the incident, evacuation, assembly, and the final headcount.

Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, Dean of the College of Medicine points out importance of earthquake and fire drills, stating “As medical practitioners, people expect more from us because we save lives and we should likewise be equipped with the knowledge and skills to minimize the number of casualities when unwanted events happen”.

APRIL 2017

MedSymphony: Victors of the Himig Handog Competition hosted by CDO

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Feature

by Aloe Danica B. Deala

Sweat dripping, hearts palpitating, breaths racing— some signs akin to hyperthyroidism were well-manifested that one December day when ten members of the WVSU-COM’s MedSymphony said yes to the opportunity that not only knocked but broke down their door.

Well-known for visiting homes and performing carols on Christmas nights, the official chorale of the WVSU-College of Medicine, stepped out of their comfort zone last December 10, 2016 when they opted to join the Himig Handog Holiday Competition hosted by the CDO Company at Robinsons’ Jaro, Iloilo City.

“It all began on one of our caroling practices,” says Telle, a participant of the competition. “We were practicing and reviewing our carols as usual when one scout approached the group.”

The scout shared that the group was fully qualified for the competition. “Many auditioned, few were chosen and rarely did we ever go from one school to the next to handpick contestants.” Amazed by the group’s practice, the scout was inclined to invite them and give them the opportunity to perform.

“It’s all about taking the chance,” agreed the ten representatives of MedSymphony.

“It’s unfortunate that not everyone in the organization could join due to the limit and schedule conflicts. However, winning wasn’t really the goal, it’s all about taking the chance… and also the experience,” reiterates Cams, another representative of the organization.

“We definitely fantasized about winning, but since it’s our first time, we never fully believed we could,” adds Dan. “We just prayed for the best performance we could give… and look where that took us!”

In total, the competition had five competing groups and by the grace of God, MedSymphony won as the champion of the competition with three songs— a Tagalog piece “Diwa ng Pasko”, a common piece “Heto Na Naman” and an original composition “Kay Sarap ng Pasko”.

It all started with a chance and it is because of this chance that they were able to reach past their goal for the Dr. Cabado Scholarship Fund and the Medical Education and Research Foundation Inc. despite only one week of caroling.

Truly, God works in mysterious ways especially when “everyone’s hard work and selfless efforts are directed at continuing the organization’s advocacy in helping the fellow medical students.

Music can indeed bring great things,” shares Rikki, the proud director of MedSymphony.

FRATER MEDICA SERVIA. Batch 12 of the Order of Asclepius poses for the cameras during the 40th anniversary event. PHOTO CREDIT: ORDER OF ASCLEPIUS

Order of Asclepius: 40 Years Strong

by Mark Anthony P. Celestial

They say life begins at forty. Whether or not the saying speaks of expectancy or a renewed sense of living, what’s certain is that the Order of Asclepius is nowhere near exhaustion, as its vision to heed the call of service has remained steadfast through the years. Standing the test of time has been the status quo, as the organization grows stronger in number and remains steadfast in its commitment towards promotion of community health, prevention of illness, and humanitarian services, coexisting with the conviction of brotherhood in medicine through service.

Since 1976, the Order has produced over 500 Asclepians that have made the college proud over the years, augmented annually by the bravest of souls that seek to travel the road to MD with a family in arms.

Some of these Asclepians have found their niches in various fields in the society and exhibited excellence in their own specialties, while others offered their devotion and service to the academe. Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz of Batch 12 said, “What strikes me most about all the seven tenets is the virtue of Service and this is what I am into right now. Congratulations to all of us,” in his message during the 40th Founding Anniversary at Casa Real, Iloilo City last December 14, 2016.

Frater Medica Servia The Order has proven its mantra, “Once an Asclepian, Always an Asclepian,” as over a hundred members graced the glamour-filled night and reunion.

The evening was a celebration of the unfaltering bond of friendship the organization has promoted.

The Order has kept its sight steady towards the path of humanitarian service. This year’s activities have brought Asclepians to far-flung areas within the region, and even beyond reaching the islands of Luzon and Mindanao to conduct medical-surgical missions and outreach programs in partnership with benevolent NGOs. Amidst the throng of upcoming exams, Asclepians wholeheartedly spent their weekends with people from all walks of life, from geriatric patients, to kids with cancer, and even to members of the Ati community within Panay.

Every year, resident Asclepians indulge in an activity called Asclepian Summer, a perfect time before the school year starts to practice the spirit of volunteerism through educational workshops, medicaldental-surgical missions, circumcision drives, and social awareness campaigns. These activities became a catalyst for a more pliant organization.

The brightest ideas are formed when the heart and the mind are open for opportunities to make

a difference. This year also marked the official launching of the Asclepian Scholarship Fund, a project that aims to put one fortunate student through four years of medical education. This is bolstered by the outpouring of support from senior Asclepians, a proof that wherever they may fare, they will always find their way back home.

Never-ending Passion Passion is the lifeblood of an Asclepian. Indeed, passion drives Asclepians to constantly innovate and create new opportunities for growth and service.

The Blood for Glory bloodletting drive organized by the Order in affiliation with Philippine Red Cross in the last nine years has provided a venue for heroes of this generation to extend their support in saving lives by blood donation.

In 2014, OA kicked off Order in Action: Video for Health Skills (OA:VHS) which provided instructional health videos to various barangays in the city. With this, the Order was awarded the Most Innovative Project by the Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations (TAYO) Award Foundation in 2014.

This year the Order of Asclepius was again awarded the Most Outstanding Student Organization in the university, bagging as well the Best in Community and Health and the Best in Student Advocacy and Development awards. Humility Above All The Order has adopted Humility among its tenets and Dr. Giovanni de los Reyes of Charter Batch put its essence in our crystal memory.

“Let us all be reminded of the tenets of our organization: Fidelity, Respect, Equality, Secrecy, Service, Dignity, and Humility. Let me put premium on the last without compromising the rest of course, this virtue of humility as I may call it— primus inter pares (first among equals) is the one closest to God and hated by the devil. We have gone this far and I believe it is by God’s grace that we were able to make it. Let’s continue the journey and may the Almighty bless us and the Order of Asclepius,” said Dr. de los Reyes in his inspirational speech during the event.

The Order of Asclepius continues to keep its promise of upholding integrity, unity, and harmony in the college and among its students. History has already proven that it is destiny that brought them together, and any attempt to break the connection only makes them invincible and stronger. As it faces tomorrow and its uncertainties, the Order has never been more prepared to claim yet another legacy of victory.

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T

Feature

APRIL 2017

by Christelle Villanueva

he backstage area of the Cultural Center was starkly illuminated. On both ends stood two big mirrors reflecting the disarray of chairs, tables and various long-forgotten props. Amidst the chaos, twenty or so medical students were gathered as they reviewed their notes for their performance.

Among them is Rikki, a third year med student. He was the choir director of Med Symphony, the College of Medicine’s very own chorale.

Rikki’s early exposure to the theater started when his mom enrolled him to dancing and acting workshops during his early years. He was an active member of the dramatics guild at his school where he eventually became the president. This he held gave him ample opportunity to develop his passion.

Like any other artist, Rikki gathers inspiration from his environment, the people around him and his unique experiences. When a typhoon hit Mindanao, he used his talent for scriptwriting to write a small play about its impact on his hometown. During his high school years, he took part in a bigger production where he wrote a play about his school’s patron saint.

Wanting to show something new to the audience, he thought it was a good idea to present the life of St. Candida.

Despite drama and scriptwriting being his first love, Rikki didn’t limit his talents to those art forms. When he was younger, he would sing in choirs when given the chance, but it was not until he joined a local pageant that he was sponsored by his college to get formal voice lessons where his singing skills were further honed.

Before entering med school, Rikki initially intended to focus only on his studies. He rejected the idea of taking on mistresses in the form of extra-curricular activities. His resolve wavered and vanished when he found himself eagerly participating during a presentation for the Mang Pedro case during Block I. At that moment, he realized that it was better to share his talents, especially since it was second nature to him to be passionate when it came to performing. “If you love to do something, mangita gid na way for it to express itself. No matter how much you suppress it,” he said.

Rikki has been Batch MD’s creative director for the Lip Synch competition during COM’s LitMus for the past three years. Simultaneously, Rikki shouldered another big responsibility as the conductor for his batch’s chorale. One challenge that he had to face was establishing good group dynamics. “Not everyone is a singer, so you need to understand everyone and you must also grow together as a group,” he said.

When asked whether he’d rather be a conductor or a singer, Rikki answered the former in an instant. “As you can see in our practices sa Med Symph, I like to channel my emotions to my singers.” He considers his way of channeling his emotions as a skill that helps the singers project themselves better to the audience. He would choose to focus on conducting because he was better at it than singing.

For Rikki, singing for events is a destressor and an honor. When asked how he felt about singing for different events such as national conventions and the PHOTO CREDIT: RIKKI BA-ACO annual caroling, Rikki answered that he was proud to bring the name of the college and the school. “You get to sing for different doctors from different parts of the country,” he said, adding, “Not all people are given the chance to do that.”

To successfully juggle academics and extra-curricular activities, Rikki practices effective time management, a skill every efficient medical student seems to have mastered. “There are times when you need to sacrifice a part of your leisure. You must study ahead if you know that you will become busy later on. You’re here in med school to study. That’s your first priority” Through it all, Rikki is positive that whatever he learned from his experiences will later on play a significant role in his career as a physician.

“Med school doesn’t only train us to be competent but it also trains us to be well-rounded. Med symph gave me that compassion to relate more to people and feel connected to them through songs. So I hope that when I become a physician, I would be able to incorporate what I learned to improve patient care.”

What does Rikki have to say to those who want to keep doing what they love despite the business of medical school? “Always remember why you’re here in the first place. If you’re given talents by God, extra personalities, you should find ways to share those, so that they will become your driving principle in order for you not to lose track. Also focus on your goals and stay well-grounded despite your achievements.”

Caffeine Free and Thriving

I

by Jireh Marielle Zaragoza

f there’s any one psychoactive stimulant excessively celebrated throughout the ages, it would be caffeine. Especially in the form of a steaming, freshly brewed (and, at times, expensive) cup of coffee, one of the most popular beverages of all time. It has never run out of demand as it serves as fuel to the biological machinery of many a highly-functioning workhorse.

Many claim that skipping the drink would significantly reduce productivity until the next caffeine fix. Among this population are medical students, who are expected to accomplish a multitude of tasks within a small amount of time.

In fact, many studies have explored the effects of caffeine to med students, as they may be vulnerable to dependence on it.

Caffeine is a methylxanthine which, when consumed in high doses, effects in palpitations, arrhythmias, and even anxiety attacks. The caffeine content in java could reach around 220 milligrams in a 5-ounce cup. It is relatively harmless until the recommended daily dose of around two cups a day is exceeded. When waking hours have to be stretched up to late into the nights prepping for exams, SGDs, and precepts, medical students are expected to be well aware of the risk of caffeine abuse, but then again, “Once you go black [coffee], you never go back.”

Those who can’t imagine a life without it would ponder whether avoiding coffee is ever doable. It was for Christabelle Prebillo, a second year who is also one of the top ten students of her batch.

“The last time I drank coffee was four years ago. I’ve only tried about half a cup and I already had

palpitations so, when I feel sleepy, I usually drink hot tea or eat an apple or take a nap.”

On the other hand, those who do enjoy their daily brew, such as second year C.M, thinks that what matters most is taking advantage of coffee’s benefits while avoiding the side effects.

“I believe that you don’t need coffee in the morning because you’re using all of the energy that 6 hours of sleep brought you. At around 1 to 2 pm, your body’s had enough of the day and rebels against you. So I take a cup of coffee around noon and I know it’s working when I don’t nod off during the 1-3 PM lecture.”

Like in all things, moderation is key. But if you’re wondering how little coffee you need in med school, Fritz Herns Jumawan thinks practically nada.

“Well, people differ in so many ways, and apparently, I cannot speak against those who drink just because I don’t. But if we’re just talking about survival in med school in the absence of coffee, I believe it is really possible.

I survived the past three years without even a drop touching my tongue.”

Elaine June Fiel, currently a third year medical student, feels the same. “I wanted to see if I can survive medical school without a drop of coffee. And so far, I was able to cruise through the first three years of med school with a coffee-free study table,” she said.

Coffee-dependent culture certainly is predominant in med school.

Currently, the percentage of caffeine-free bloodstreams in Roxas Hall comprises the minority. What’s worse is when the pressure of conquering the mountain of requirements beckons the student to replace all hydration with such. But according to these med students, when the going gets tough, the coffee need not be stronger. Most of the time, you do.

Photo Source: www.theodysseyonline.com

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Sports

APRIL 2017

by Philip G. Balogo

I

f you asked anyone who knows her, most would describe Stephanie as bubbly and easy-going. She is doing well in med school, has lots of friends and a loyal and loving boyfriend. However, most people don’t know that it took quite a journey to achieve this confidence and happiness. A journey that involved losing 42 kilograms to be exact.

Being in the bad end Stephanie, who was 94 kg before and 52 kg today, said that having been overweight, she knows how it feels to be the brunt of people’s joke. “I was bullied as a child. The other kids wouldn’t play with me because I easily got tired and out of breath” she shared.

However, the bullying isn’t the only struggle. Being overweight does not give great options to people like Stephanie. She recalls an incident when she was shopping for clothes. “Nothing fits! I saw shirts that I liked but then I knew they wouldn’t fit me.”

A common struggle According to the National Nutrition Survey, 1 out of every 3 Filipinos aged 20 and above is either obese or overweight.

Aside from Stephanie, several others also expressed the same sentiments with regards to being overweight. “John” who was 92 kg before and 65 kg today, “Anna” who went from 63 kg to 50 kg also shared their struggles.

For some, the excess weight not only affects relationships but also creeps in every aspect of life.

“As an OR nurse, I’m supposed to anticipate the surgeon’s every need but instead, the other nurses have to take care of me. I was sweating buckets and it was really embarrassing.” Shares John.

Even though their loved ones continued to be a source of support, they are also the first to bully them Stephanie after to take action. “My father told me that I was really fat. I weight loss was hurt but then I knew he only meant well,” said Anna.

The Steps to change An online poll by a magazine revealed that 1 out of 3 netizens are willing to take extreme measures to lose the extra pounds.

The temptation of a quick and easy weight loss became attractive to those who are desperate to change.

“Slimming pills, juices, tea, coffee, name it, I have tried them all.” Revealed Stephanie.

However, the reality of not seeing the results she wanted opened her eyes to the fact that these quick fixes are not going to work in the long haul. “I lost 2 kilograms at most, but then the side effects kicks in and I had to stop. It’s really not worth it.”

What actually works “I have tried every pill in the market and I was out of option. One day I decided to run for an hour after class. That was the only thing I did and that was all it took to change everything.” Says Stephanie.

Stephanie before “Fitness is a choice you have to make everyday, weight loss convenient or not.”, Anna told, recommending that a balance of workout, diet and discipline is key. “Working out will eventually make you go for the healthier choices and it gets easier with time” “I signed up for gym membership, but with our busy schedule in med school, I can’t always go to the gym, so you have to be creative, I jog when I can’t go there,” expresses John.

Living the good life.

After losing weight, Stephanie can now wear any shirt she likes. While Anna and John competed and even won in sprinting competitions.

“Perhaps, the best thing that fitness will give you is the firm belief that almost everything is possible with hard work.” John said.

“It is never selfish to love ourselves. In the end, it is your drive to become better for yourself, not for others that will keep you going.” Stephanie concluded. She now strongly advice others not to take diet pills.

Prosthetics: merging man and machine

A gun shot rings out, the crowds cheer, and the runners, well, they run.

46.44 seconds and 400 meters later, the crowds looks on with awe and surprise as they watch a man cross the finish line well ahead of his competitors, a man with both legs ending just below the knee. In 2011, Oscar Pistorius, became the first amputee to a world track medal in a non-disabled category, triumphing over several socalled able bodied athletes.

With that, we establish that disabled athletes are by no means any less capable that non-disabled athletes, however, with Oscar Pistorius and several other paraathletes excelling in non-disabled sports a new question has been posed. Are disabled athletes more capable than nonnondisabled athletes?

In the case of Pistorius, the International Association of Athletics Federations originally ruled against allowing him to participate but later rescinded their decision. Pistorius’ prosthetics, a pair of J-shaped carbon fibre blades, allows him to run similarly to a non-disabled athlete

In the Game Neil A. Cartujano but the lightness of the prosthetics allows him to move his legs faster, consuming less energy in the process.

In this, the theory of transhumanism comes to mind. In the simplest terms, transhumanism believes that the human as we see it today is merely a phase in an incomplete cycle, it believe that science and technology is what will allow humanity to transcend to another state of being, something more that human. This

is not limited to increasing the capability of the human body, as what appears to have happened in the case of prosthetics in sports, but enhancing the state of the human being as whole, body, mind, and, theoretically, the soul. While this seems farfetched, keep in mind the existence of technology that has allowed disabled athletes to compete with and overcome ‘able-bodied’ athlete.

With the advances achieved in prosthetics, it seems as if we are already making steps to being just a little bit more than human.

Outside of sports there is a rapidly growing industry focused on making machines that are nearly as intricate and dexterous as the flesh and blood they are intended to replace.

The lines between disability and being ‘ablebodied’ can only continue to blur as there are already prosthetics that are being developed to be under the control of the human brain similar natural limbs. However, the argument of whether these machines create an unfair advantage or not seems less important to what they offer to the disabled, a chance to overcome adversity as in the case shown by these athletes.

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APRIL 2017

ALPHA FEMALES. Tamara Michelle Dominado of the West Visayas State University - College of Medicine Football Women All Star team squares off against Kate Flores of the Iloilo Doctors’ College of Medicine Women Footballers for the goal during the championship match in Medlympics 2017.

Team West is Medlympics champion

by Leodel T. Barrio

West Visayas State University-College of Medicine (WVSU) continues to show its prowess by achieving the ultimate feat of being crowned the overall champion in the recently concluded Medlympics last March 25-26, 2017.

The sports extravaganza featured the three medical schools in Panay, WVSU, Central Philippine University and Iloilo Doctors College coming face to face in Basketball, Volleyball, Football and Swimming.

WVSU took home the championship trophies for Basketball (Men and Women), Football (Men and Women) and Swimming which secured team WVSU the overall champion distinction. CPU was proclaimed

second place, gaining most of their points by winning Volleyball (Men and Women) championship. IDC came in third, winning the Cheers and Yells competition.

In general, the goal of this event was not only to compete in the games but to foster camaraderie and strengthen good relations across the three schools. “It’s rare to see these three schools together and events like this gives opportunities to build friendships and memories regardless of which school you come from” says Jessica Danielle Datoon, one of the organizers.

This year’s Medlympics was hosted by West Visayas State University – College of Medicine.

BRINGING THE SPLASH. Team West Med excelled in various sports events such as swimming, in the recently concluded Medlympics, March 25-26, 2017. PHOTO CREDIT: JADE MARIE M. SOBREPEÑA

PHOTO CREDIT: CHARISSE ANN M. MONSALE

Football women win back to back

by Neil Cartujano

The WVSU football women walked off the field as champions, winning their match 3-0 against IDCM. Their victory came only a few hours after another successful match earlier that morning, against CPU women 1-0. The two matches challenged the mental and physical endurance of the players, giving them only a relatively inadequate amount of time to rest in between.

Finishing the game against CPU with a late goal in the second half, they took to the sidelines panting and sweating, taking what rest and relief they could while their male counterparts took to the field. Minutes later, with their bodies barely recovered from their first match, the WVSU women were on the field once again to face off against fresh and well-rested players of IDCM. Spending the first half beating off the opposing teams attempts at a goal, they were unable to mount a successful attack of their own.

This changed in the 2nd half, as the WVSU women caught their opponents offguard and scored three successful goals, two by Thea Nadala and one by Bea Marie Salcedo. With WVSU 3 goals ahead, a shocked IDCM team was eager to counterattack but struggled against the WVSU defence. The WVSU held their ground as cheers signaled the end of the match and their victory.