tWS 2022-2023 13th Issue

Ex-news anchor: BBM better than Duterte, but ‘fear’ remains

INSIDE THIS ISSUE column

AI: Threat to Academics, or a Tool for Learning?

by NATHANIEL CARAMPATANA & SHAY DU

A FORMER news anchor of ABSCBN said that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is “more open,” “accomodating,” and “accesible,” to the media than his predecessor, former President Rodrigo Duterte.

However, Christian Esguerra, who spent six years as an ABS-CBN anchor, said that despite Marcos Jr.’s attitude, the situation inside newsrooms has not improved.

“The climate of fear remains. Many newsrooms still censor themselves. Many, if not all, media owners are still very much afraid. And they are themselves, censoring their journalists,” he said.

his message titled, “Democracy at Stake: How Media Battles the Disinformation Phenomenon” during the Marshall McLuhan Dumaguete Series held at the Audio-Visual Theater last Feb. 21.

Esguerra said that even when Marcos Jr. had not yet won the presidential elections, “the media was already scared.”

“If you ask around, there were efforts to actually kill certain stories, to change headlines, [and] to minimize certain angles—which [were] also happening before, pero ngayon mas lumala (but have now gotten worse),” he said.

“Everyone was afraid of President Rodrigo Duterte. When he came after Rappler, when he came after the Philippine Daily Inquirer, and then he came after ABS-CBN, what did the other news organizations do? They became even timider, and that is the worst form of censorship: self-censorship,” he said.

The alleged violations of the news organizations Duterte “came after” were also brought up during the open forum. Esguerra said that the government was selective in acting upon such violations.

Zarelle Glen Dorothy Villanzana

Student demands hasten Ninings return to campus

by ALLIANAH

FOLLOWING A SURVEY conducted by the Silliman University Student Government Students’ Rights and Welfare Committee (STRAW), the Ninings resumed operations by the Shaw Memorial Swimming Pool.

BOLOTAULO She said that about 99.9 percent of the respondents were in favor of bringing back the Ninings

“This justifies that there is a need for them to be back on campus due to the demands,” she said.

As the 2020 Marshall McLuhan Fellow, Esguerra was invited by the Silliman University-College of Mass Communication (SU-CMC) to deliver

Esguerra said that situations like this reminded him of how journalism was “heavily under siege” throughout the Duterte administration.

“Ilan ‘yung mga news organizations na merong skeletons in the closet, pero bakit pili lang yung binanatan ni President Rodrigo Duterte? Bakit merong news organizations that are categorically spreading lies [na] hindi hinahabol?

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SU orgs hold donation drive for fire victims

by ALLIANAH BOLOTAULO

SILLIMAN UNIVERSITY organizations held a donation drive for Barangay 8 fire victims last Jan. 11-20, 2023.

After a field assessment, the goods prioritized for the donation were kitchenware, canned food, rice, and clothes since the victims were unable to save most of their belongings.

amount we got was not that big, it was just enough for the victims.”

The goods were turned over to the Barangay 8 officials last Jan. 21, 2023, for distribution.

After about three years since leaving Silliman University due to the pandemic, the Ninings returned last Feb. 1, to sell their meals and snacks for students in their kiosks.

According to Bianca Joyce Flores, STRAW Committee Chairperson, over 746 Sillimanians answered the survey labeled “Silliman Stance 2.”

The survey results were sent to Jane Belarmino, vice president for development, enterprise, and external affairs as backup data for the request.

Several of the cooks said that they were happy when the university administration approved their return. They said that they would be able to earn money again through the service that they provide. tWS

The Silliman University Student Government (SUSG) Social Services Committee, together with Ang Sandigan, Renaissance Youth Leaders Forum (RYLF), and the Miss Silliman Committee worked together on the drive with a limited budget.

Kylle Christiann Saga, SUSG Social Services Committee chairperson, said that his first thoughts were to assess the situation and find out what they could do to support the affected families.

Since they were not able to collect a “big amount” of in-kind and monetary donations, the committees and organizations failed to give an immediate response and had to extend the donation drive, lengthening the process to two weeks.

Franz Jullian Sevilla, RYLF vicepresident shared that they were still able to amass a “good number of donations” from their own organizations.

He added, “We also donated things from our own homes. Although the

“We encouraged the students to play a vital role in their own development as well as in that of their communities, helping them to learn vital life skills and promote positive civic action in their own simple ways through donation drives,” Chloe Dakay, Ang Sandigan president, said.

Moreover, reigning Miss Silliman Angelica Faith Generoso also talked about the essence of being aware of societal events and difficulties.

INFORMATION. Veteran political journalist Christian Esguerra talked about the state of disinformation and the media landscape of the Philippines, Feb 21.| PhotobyFrancisPabiania

Luke Edward Gallares

Never Forget

AI: Threat to Academics, or a Tool for Learning?

EDWARD GALLARES | CBA

This year, 2023, has brought us a revolutionary new tool that uses an AI language model to converse with. It can help with homework, be a conversational partner, and in my case, help me understand the emotions that I’ve been going through.

I’ve been using ChatGPT as my go-to “person” when looking for ideas. As a conversational tool, it has given me a lot of useful information that was actually helpful to my work and subsequently, to class as well.

discriminate or provide information that can promote discrimination, and will forget your query every time you refresh the page. It is, in my opinion, a very wholesome and friendly tool. I have been relying on it to write copywritten captions, a few SEO (Search Engine Optimization) articles, and even to check the grammar in my essays!

2. I do not use it for essays and other homework. As a language model, giving it the same prompt will result in the same answers. If not the same, then similar. Additionally, essays as a test and homework were designed to help us think critically, meaning that the use of an AI tool would be cheating and counterproductive, leaving us dumber than before.

Thirty-seven years ago, millions of Filipinos across the nation gathered and marched on the Epifanio de los Santos Avenue. Their goal was to reclaim their liberty by overthrowing the dictatorial rule of the late President Ferdinand Marcos, which they achieved.

Revolutions generally take years to build up and resolve, yet in just the course of a few days Filipinos showed that when united as one nation, anything is possible. In a four-day demonstration, Marcos’ 20-year rule as president and 14-year dictatorship was upended. They had ousted Marcos in a globally inspiring civilian-led nonviolent protest that would go down as one of the most momentous revolutions in modern history.

The revolution was a manifestation of years of discontentment. When Marcos declared martial law on Sept. 21, 1972, he took full control of the courts and the nation entered a dark time. Under him, the Philippines’ public infrastructure soared—along with the country’s debt. Many Filipinos experienced extreme poverty while the nation’s foreign debt continued to hike. His reign was marked by a multitude of human rights violations, corruption, and censorship of the media. Thousands of his opponents were killed, tortured, or had disappeared.

However, just as we commemorate the day this dictatorship came to an end, a new president resides in Malacañang palace—his son.

Last Feb. 23, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. moved the anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution from Feb. 25, 2023, to Feb. 24, 2023.

As stipulated in the signed Proclamation No. 167, this change would be done “provided that the historical significance of EDSA People Power Revolution Anniversary is maintained.”

Marcos declared Feb. 24, a Friday, a special non-working holiday to lengthen the weekend in commemoration of the anniversary. The rationale behind the change of

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dates was pursuant to the principle of “holiday economics,” a practice meant to benefit the economy since people were expected to travel and spend more during the long weekends. This was introduced by former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

Netizens debated online on the change of the anniversary date, especially with Marcos’ background as the dictator’s son.

Filipino Historian, Xiao Chua, stated that he was not a fan of moving holidays since “it confuses people and is making them about vacations instead of commemorating.” Some netizens also agreed with his sentiments.

One said, “Valid point. You wouldn’t move the Christmas holiday or June 12th, would you?”

Meanwhile, a comment said that nothing is changed. “It is still Feb. 25 that people can commemorate the spirit of EDSA Revolution.”

On the other end, netizens criticized the last-minute announcement. A lawyer expressed on Twitter, “It’s good that holiday economics is back. What’s not okay is making last-minute announcements for something that could have been long planned out. Some people need advance notice for a lot of things, including financial transactions.”

Another netizen criticized the rationale of holiday economics as it requires planning ahead of time. “[As far as I know] holiday economics was used for people to travel more and increase consumption during long weekends. But it entails planning for the working public, di yung on the spot, declare agad na walang pasok, end of business day pa [not declaring it on the spot, and at the end of the business day]. And in this economy?”

Regardless of the online discourse, one thing remains true— the dark history of our nation must be remembered. The echoes of the Filipinos that marched in EDSA, calling to end a tyrannical rule must be perpetually memorialized. tWS

Now you might say that it’s cheating, but I think as technology progresses, we need to learn how we can adapt to it in a way that is helpful to our place of learning. ChatGPT, a large language model developed by OpenAI, was trained using deep learning techniques on a large dataset of text. It is capable of understanding and generating text on a wide range of topics.

However, the company has put in a lot of safeguards which you will read when you first enter the chatroom. It is designed to decline inappropriate requests, will not

However, overusing the tool can lead to over-dependence, and you know what? Human progress has always been dependent on how we can critically think. Our rationality and reason; our desire to make life easier have been key factors for our technological progress. In this case, ChatGPT might actually become detrimental when overused.

So in order to ensure my growth as a student, I’ve set down two rules:

1. I remember that Chat is just a tool (Sadly, I’ve become endeared to ChatGPT and have given him the nickname “Chat,” which is a French word for cat. I used to have a cat in Bohol who I talked to when I wrote my articles to help me think. So ChatGPT is now “le Chat”).

On Caring More to be Loved

ZARELLE GLEN DOROTHY VILLANZANA

I understand it now, this craving for romance. By the utterance of the word, a holler would be heard from the hallways, shrieks and howls caused as if people have turned into a pack of wolves. A trigger from the crowd is evoked, one that varies in effect, dependent on the person’s situation. Sparks would fly, and inevitably, sneers uncontained by those struck by the bitter resolution that they have none in their lives— or so they think. A third of the population would be unmoved, devoid of interest as they have more important matters to ponder. Most would think I belong there, and I wish I still was. It all seemed easier.

Now I magnify the little things, give meaning to minor details, and reflect on past events wishing I had been more attentive. Maybe then I would have secured something (someone) by now, or that I’ve experienced the very thing others so longed to have. It’s a silly thought, and the adults would tell me I’m too young. At a young age, I am made very much aware of putting my priorities straight. However, I would be lying if I said I never thought about it once at this age.

Pieces of advice are redundant: love yourself first, you cannot pour from an empty cup, don’t rush things as they will come in due time, family is forever, and you are too young to be worrying about love. I do not worry, but is it not natural to desire? We are human after all.

All the more, it is heightened by everyone else’s same preoccupation. It is heightened with every poetic song lyric dedicated to another, with every romantic encounter found in fiction or in reality, with every existing relationship deemed healthy. I hush it down and drench myself in work in hopes that it is only boredom. “I am better than this,” I think; “I don’t need this,” I think; “I am too young,” I think; “There are far more important things,” I think. Quietly, I bottle up the emotion, hoping it dusts away and disappears. I recognize it as a threat, as I have been taught. Although, it can’t be helped. It jumps out without warning, and I am left puzzled in taming it, quite perplexed as to how I could escape the constant ebbs and flows. But like the ocean, are the waves ought to be restrained?

Don’t the surfers find delight in their magnitude? Even the onlookers, the regular people, do they not appreciate the mere existence of the waters?

A slideshow plays in my head, a collection of moments in media dabbling on the theme of love. There are too many, but standing out is Jo’s monologue from Little Women. The last part emphasized, most times left out, her voice trembles to say, “But I’m so lonely.” This same person who told her sister that she would be bored with her lover and that their sisterhood will be interesting forever, who valued

I believe that one day, ChatGPT, or an iteration of it, will be a centralized part of our education in the future. Just as cell phones were banned back then in classrooms, it has now become an integral part of our school life. AI language models will soon be a part of the curriculum, and whether that is a bad thing remains to be seen.

But I’m optimistic. Technology utilized progressively will always be good and I see its potential. I tested it by conversing with it regarding my mental health, behavior, and personal opinions—its replies have always been neutral. I don’t recommend using it to cheat, but hey, you do you, schoolmate. At the end of the day, if you use technology to cheat, you’re not really cheating the school or the system, you’re cheating yourself.

her independence more than to be weighed down by the idea of marriage, who would put her family first and career second— she was the same person who realized later she cared more to be loved by someone, anyone.

“That is not the same as loving,” her Marmee would say.

It is not the same as loving. Being loved is not the same as loving. Perhaps then that is how it should be. If we cannot receive the love we so desire yet, then at least let us be the first ones to lay it out, to give it away. If we cannot learn to love ourselves first, then at least we can learn to explicitly love other people, and in doing so, familiarity would make it easier to treat ourselves likewise. Our own capacity for compassion will inevitably establish the reciprocation we search for everywhere. It is never easy, but humanity cannot come from anywhere else but ourselves. In a world devoid of emotion, let love be an act of rebellion.

Valentine’s Day may seem an exclusive celebration of reciprocated love, but looking past the blinds, a wide space is dedicated to the day-to-day givers, those who are capable of expressing love through gifts, gestures, or words, without expectation, perhaps a little hesitation, but braving through nonetheless, and regardless of the result, is still content— all this, just because they can.

the Weekly Sillimanian is published every week by the students of Silliman University, with editorial and business addresses at 1/F Oriental Hall, Silliman University, Hibbard Avenue, Dumaguete City 6200, Philippines, SU PO Box 24. Telephone number (35) 4226002 loc. 243.

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LUKE

Maybe I'm the Problem: Recognizing `Red Flags' Within Ourselves

by LEA CAÑIZARES

When you hear the words “manipulator,” “cheater,” and “gaslighter,” what is the first thing that comes to mind? When you see someone who is in a toxic relationship or hear someone constantly talking about their exes and past relationships, what can be said about that person? As for the million dollar question, what do you call a person who is controlling, manipulative, and gaslights to make you insecure and feel like you are always in the wrong?

Red Flags are warning signs that suggest manipulative or destructive behavior. They are sometimes difficult to identify at first, which makes them dangerous. On top of that, they have a tendency to grow and worsen over time.

In discussions about toxic behaviors and relationships, “red flags” are frequently mentioned. Toxicity can manifest itself in any close relationship, including those with friends, coworkers, family, and partners. Every so often we get caught up trying to spot red flags in others that we often forget to look inwardly at ourselves.

Recognizing red flags within ourselves is a serious business. The notion that oneself may be the problem in a particular situation is quite common, and often reflects signs of self-awareness and selfintrospection. However, it can be difficult for people to admit that they have flaws and imperfections as it requires one to take a long, hard look at their thoughts, behaviors, and patterns of interaction with the world around them.

One of the most common red flags people may encounter is negative self-talk.

Everyone has an inner critic that can be harsh and unforgiving, but when it becomes a constant presence in one’s mind, it can be damaging to their self-esteem and well-being. People may also notice patterns of self-sabotage, such as procrastination or avoiding taking risks, that hold one back from achieving their goals.

Other red flags may arise in one’s relationships with others. Some may find themselves repeatedly attracted to toxic partners even though it is clear

Whether it’s in relationships, career, or personal life, it is important for one to be able to identify the warning signs before things start steering towards the wrong path. This is easier said than done, but it is a necessary step towards personal growth and development.

The first step towards recognizing and accepting red flags in oneself is just a matter of taking a seat back and having a good laugh at ourselves. It’s okay to acknowledge that we are not perfect, and that sometimes one’s quirks can get the best of us. The key is to not take things too seriously and to be open to making positive changes in our lives.

Reflecting on one’s red flags can be a journey of self-discovery—one that requires honesty, vulnerability, and a commitment to personal growth. It can be uncomfortable to confront one’s flaws, but it’s important to remember that recognizing and addressing them is the first step towards becoming the best version of ourselves.

`What Will Be Left?'

by NINA ALOLOD

If you’ve been on social media recently, you may have come across the dissent regarding the numerous government plans that would spell nothing but disaster for the environment.

rally against the 174-hectare reclamation project that would have buried marine protected areas. Most recently was the protest against the pyrolysis-gasification machine in Barangay Candauay that releases toxic gasses by incinerating the city’s trash.

that the relationship is not healthy anymore. Some may struggle to communicate effectively with friends and family especially when it comes to respecting boundaries. These patterns of behavior can be difficult to break, but with self-reflection and a willingness to change, people can learn to build healthier relationships and develop stronger boundaries.

According to psychologists, admitting one’s mistakes can be very difficult for one’s ego and selfimage. Thus, it is easier to spot red flags in others, but when it comes to oneself, people often overlook them.

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Whether one chooses to seek out therapy, practice self-care, or engage in mindfulness practices, there are many tools within hand’s reach to help one navigate this journey.

In the end, recognizing our red flags is not about perfection or achieving some ideal state of being. It is about accepting ourselves for who we are, flaws and all, and working towards becoming the best possible version of ourselves. It’s a process that requires patience, compassion, and a willingness to grow—but the rewards are immeasurable. By taking the time to reflect on personal red flags, one can chart a course towards greater self-awareness, resilience, and personal fulfillment. tWS

At the forefront of this is The Willow Project: a six billion dollar proposal from hydrocarbon exploration and production company ConocoPhillips to drill oil and gas in Alaska. Evidence has shown, however, that the project would produce more than 278 million tonnes of greenhouse gasses over the course of its thirty year life to the environment, which would not only contribute to global climate change but jeopardize Arctic wildlife as well.

Towards the east is Japan’s plans on releasing 1.25 million tons of treated wastewater contaminated by the disabled Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant into the Pacific Ocean. In response, neighboring countries such as China, South Korea, and Pacific Island nations condemned the release. Like the Willow Project, with its potential contribution of greenhouse gasses as well as disrupting the Alaskan ecosystem, the wastewater would have a damaging effect on both the environment and humans

Dumaguete has also had its fair share of battling against projects endangering the city’s environment. Not too long ago was the

These instances pose a threat to everyday people who have to deal with the consequences of such projects. When those in power see the environment as avenues for profit, it leaves us nothing left to live on.

It is no wonder why some students are less inclined to focus on their academics, knowing how little sustainable spaces will remain in the future if these harmful plans were to ever carry on. This makes it all the more important to be more vocal with these concerns rather than simply brushing them away in the hopes others will be the ones to take a stand.

As students, it is understandable to prioritize academic requirements as they are wired to react to the immediate tasks they are given. Nonetheless, in the midst of assignments and reports, it should be acknowledged that time is ticking for the environment. Actions to assist Mother Earth need to be incorporated in the daily lives of people. From simply taking the time to segregate trash, to signing petitions, or even banding together in peaceful rallies, there is a lot that students can do to take part in saving the planet. tWS

Why Not Procrastinate?

by DAWN TIAOSON

Today’s academic demands are high, especially considering that the Midterms Examinations are coming. A lot of reading must be done, a lot of papers to be submitted, and not to mention the balance sheets and laboratory reports to cram. These are all overwhelming things, but a pause is a must. However, how long must this pause be? Is doing all the backlogs during the last minute good for your brain to function well? Or a punishment you give to yourself?

They also claim that time pressure makes their brain work better, thus enabling them to finish the task just in time. Other than the claim that they work well under time pressure, they also said that sometimes they lack the confidence to start the task and they feel like they do not know where to actually start. The lack of self-esteem, according to them, has a direct correlation with procrastination.

Medical Technology I

Procrastination seems to be one of today’s trends. According to a number of interviewed BS Chemistry students from Silliman University, Aliah Desabille and Katrinka Aguilar among others, feel like they are more productive when the last minute comes. A lot of interviewees including Kawthar and Angel Lachica, also claim that they can work well under time pressure, yet they find it hard to answer whether or not they are satisfied with their outputs.

It is quite seen that one common ground of this practice is the idea of time being a work motivator.

Lastly, one of the most mentioned causes is the lack of “bebe time”, pictured to be something about having an intimate partner to share struggles and triumphs with, which according to them, is supposed to make them do well in academic aspects. Such “bebe time” would contribute to their sources of motivation and inspiration, thus pushing them to their optimum potential.

However, the interviewees admitted that passing the requirement or finishing the task is not the goal. Producing quality output is. According to the same group of interviewed students, 8 out of 10 said that their output could be better if they have had enough time doing it. Additionally, 2 out

of 10 said that their outputs were actually better than expected yet it cost them to work overnight.

Procrastination may work sometimes, but it must not be romanticized. According to studies conducted by Pieters from 2017 to 2020, procrastination is found to be positively related to stress. Therefore, the more an individual procrastinates, the more stress they will encounter.

To produce quality outputs with minimum stress, the following are suggested, most especially now that midterms week is fast approaching:

1. Set goals and schedules, and stick to it.

Planning and setting goals are the primary steps to know how much time one would need to study. Make these goals and schedules as specific as possible and make it a commitment to stick to them. Fixing one’s eyes on a specific goal will ignite the drive to get to work.

Dan Alfonzeta Luaggue | BS

“Monggu (the ROTC dog).” “Ringo!” Parker Shane Manalaysay | CompSci II

Every so often we get caught up trying to spot red flags in others that we often forget to look inwardly at ourselves.

Invocations to the Poets

What if there somewhere you could just break all the rules and let your imagination fly freely, like dust in the wind? What if there is a way to break free from the chains that pin you to the ground, to escape into a world where you could vent out your feelings without worrying about anyone stopping you?

Creative writing can transport one to such a world, as expressed by five talented individuals whose passion, talent, and journey in creative writing will be seen and shared in this story. Invocations to the Muse

Just three days after Valentine’s Day of 2023, Miss Angella Gabrielle Fabunan, a faculty at the English and Literature Department, along with BA Creative Writing students Jireh Catacutan, Reya Grace Hinaut, Yudi Santillan III, and Sigrid Gayangos, shared and personally delivered a collection of original poems and prose that they wrote.

Love was the central theme of the pieces shared in front of a crowd in an event named “Invocations to the Muse” at Libraria, located at 58 E.J. Blanco Street, Piapi, Dumaguete City. Additionally, there was an open mic section in the event where anyone from the crowd was given the chance to share their pieces on the spot.

The Poets and their Experiences

Each performer had a unique approach in the way they wrote and delivered their pieces, and in the way they view and apply creative writing in their lives. Yudi Santillan II, the first performer, shared that his way of writing and delivering poems has a lot to do with his bilingual style and voice expressions.

When it comes to poetry, what he really loves about it is that through words, one is able to paint a story that expresses one’s emotions and thoughts. “We use words every day, but for poetry, it takes something that is mundane and turns it into something that is more,” Yudi Santillan III shared.

Some poets like to write their poems based on experiences, while other poets write while following a specific format or outline. For Reya Grace Hinaut, the second performer, her thought process

behind coming up with her poems is unique. She shared that when it comes to her poetry, she usually starts with a line that she really wants to include in her poem and from there, she just lets the words flow.

For the third performer, Jireh Catacutan, the event had a very huge impact on him since it was his first time having his works actually be heard. “To make it special, I dedicated each of my poems to the people that I love,” he expressed. Additionally, he also shared that it is different when you perform and deliver your pieces in front of a crowd compared to when writing alone and only thinking of one person or specific view because anyone can hear it and interpret it differently.

Unlike the rest of the group, Sigrid Gayangos, the fourth performer, writes [primarily] prose, and just like the other poets, she chose the ones that are kind of wholesome and for general audiences. Sigrid believes that based on her experiences, writing one’s craft is a site of tension where one can find so much joy and happiness, but also so much pain and anguish―it is a mixture of those two. “In the end, it is always a sense of accomplishment and relief that follows,” she added.

Finally, Miss Angella Gabrielle Fabunan, the fifth performer, shared that the kinds of forms and poems she writes would showcase the changes in the city that she has gone through in the past six months and her growth and journey into becoming a more mature adult. She also aspires to use and build her words to inspire people and make a contribution― for the benefit of the human race.

Audience Impact and Event Plans for the Future

Miss Angella shared that the event has exceeded her expectations and that she was grateful that a lot of people went to witness the event. Among the people who witnessed the event was Daniel Rina M. Corpora, an AB English irregular student, who shared that seeing the poets altogether and seeing them naturally be so raw and full of emotion upstage inspired her to share her piece during the open mic section of the event.

“Actually, this is my first time doing something like this, so I’m very glad I took the chance and hopefully

if this ever becomes a monthly thing, I will regularly attend,” she expressed. Another person from the crowd, Zarelle Villanzana, a grade 12 HUMSS student, shared that this event has changed her view regards to creative writing in a way that she realized that in poetry or any piece of writing, it does not need to be perfect and that you can express yourself however you want to and through whatever you want to, and that the ‘right’ people would not judge you for it.

“They will be like people that will be accepting, and it’ll encourage you to share more of your works and writing. Furthermore, it will improve your capabilities and skills,” she added.

Miss Angella hopes that this event will become a monthly thing where different themes and different performances will be done and featured every month. She also hopes that this event will promote Libraria, a collective space where all forms of art from reading, writing, painting, pottery, to textile art and the like are celebrated.

Key Takeaways

Writing takes a lot of skill. It is a talent that takes a lifelong process to master and perfect one’s craft. For Yudi one value that a writer must have is ambition, because without ambition―without this drive beneath to be better―one will never be better unless they have that kind of hunger to push their craft.

For Sigrid, it is conscientiousness because you need to always be aware. You need to read a lot and be informed to improve your craft.

For Jireh it is hard work, because each writer has their own stories to write―and hard work beats talent. Through hard work, people can build assurance within themselves.

Finally, for Miss Angella, it is humility, because someone who does not have humility or believes too much in fame ruins the craft and the practice.

Miss Angela also shared that if writing is not for you, do not do it. If it is for you and you think you have an inkling of what you want to do and how you want to put words on paper, go for it. “My advice for people is just to read the kind of stuff that they want to write,” she expressed. tWS

frompage3| Why Not...

2. Get away from temptations.

Figure out what actually makes you distracted and get away from them. Mute notifications, shut down unnecessary gadgets, say no to Netflix, or stop yourself from kissing your pet every second. Additionally, if you find it difficult to sit down and study when you are aware that household tasks must be completed, take your study material to the local library or an area where you can focus well.

3. Allow yourself to produce a draft.

No one can make something perfect on the first try. Allow

yourself to make drafts and acknowledge that you need more effort to make better. Focus on getting started rather than aiming for perfection or feeling overwhelmed. Start jotting down notes for your essay or simply read the first page of your textbook. Procrastination may sound okay, but it actually could do more harm to yourself than good. Overwhelming yourself with things that could weigh less if you just started sooner will not help you in the long run. Instead, these will deprive you from sleep and could cause anxiety. Making better decisions and forming more sustainable habits would be a great place to start. tWS

All-University Love Letter Writing Contest

FirstPlaceWinner by the Department of English and Literature and the Edilberto and Edith Tiempo Creative Writing Center togetherwith the English Society

Dear Dante,

June 2, almost six years ago, was when I first met you. Your hair was long and you dressed in my lucky color. I asked to take a picture of you, scared I’d never see you again. We met again the next day. Red really is my favorite, lucky color.

July 31 of 2021 was when I wanted to make you pasta. You came over, still dressed in red but your hair much shorter. I lied about cooking too much food. You joked about how I made you feel loved. For half a second, the kitchen table had become an altar and there I was— offering in hand, heart on my sleeve, feet planted on a church floor— ready to love you. But only for half a second; I’m not ready, not yet.

August 1, 2021, you were able to stay the night. I told my mom you were my best friend. We stole liquor from my stepdad’s shelf, some espresso cognac that tasted more coffee than cognac. We tiptoed so quietly I was afraid you’d hear my heartbeat. We got so drunk that I grew terrified of how loud it had become. Only when I pressed my ear against your chest did I realize I was hearing the noisy hearts of two. You lied about the caffeine getting to you; I pretended to fall asleep.

August 2, 2021, I wake up to the glint in your eyes. When you told me the power went out, I couldn’t understand—the sun had never left. Later that day we traveled to the sea and laid next to each other like Annabel Lee. I couldn’t take my eyes off you. Even by dusk it was so beautifully bright.

August 3, 2021, my mom figured you weren’t my best friend. I had to see you in secret playgrounds and parking lots. We played house, a family of two and a makeshift, teenage vow. It was on that playground swing I had decided that in sickness and in health, for rich or for poor, you are a wanted man—I’ll love you dead or alive.

February 22, 2023, this morning you made us coffee. Not a trace of liquor, but my head still spins when I drink it with you. I love our little routine in our little apartment, your hair cut short and dyed red. Our lucky color. Your name we chose together, our kitchen table an altar forever. I was afraid to tell you before, so I’ll tell you now. I do, I do, I do. I love you so much, Dante. I do.

Since2012,theDepartmentofEnglishandLiteraturehasorganized thecontestinFebruary,celebratingwinningworksofstudents.

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Compiled by Rainne Nocete | tWS Social Media Manager/Graphic Artist

NGO visits SU, plans to launch app

by SHAY DU

NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATION Institute for Global Education, Exchange, and Internship (IGEEI) visited Silliman University (SU) and shared plans of developing a mobile and web application that can connect volunteers and interns with organizations internationally.

IGEEI also conducted an international Youth Conference in SU for their Technology for Peace Project (T4P), which intended to promote peace-building and volunteerism through technology, at the Multipurpose Room on Feb. 17.

IGEEI President Rior Santos said that the planned app would be

a “game changer” that will “level the playing ground for everyone.”

When the application finishes development, IGEEI plans to conduct a pilot run in Dumaguete City and partner with the city’s universities.

Santos said, “[I]f we can make it work here in the Philippines, in Dumaguete, we are confident that we can showcase it to the entire country and globally.”

During the conference, delegates from participating international universities and organizations presented their efforts to boost volunteerism in their respective countries and Continuedonpage6

SU student chapter bags ‘excellent university’ in international awards

Next

Socio-Anthro majors conduct outreach at Mabunao Integrated School

by RAY DONAIRE from the said school’s supreme student government officers.

OFFICERS AND MEMBERS of the Junior Anthropologists and Sociologists of Silliman (JASS) conducted an annual outreach program in Mabunao, Bais City, last Feb. 18-19.

The program, Ambit Kahanas, was attended by 163 students from primary and secondary levels of Mabunao Integrated School under the supervision of Silliman University’s Department of Anthropology and Sociology.

Ambit Kahanas is a Visayan term for “Exchange of Skills” or “A Festival of Knowledge and Skills.”

The program’s capacity-building activities include leadership and organizational management, computer literacy training, music lessons, rug-making, and meat processing.

A meeting for project planning and development also commenced afterward with participants

On the volunteers for the outreach, JASS adviser Lance Lagunay said that the majority who joined were not enrolled in directly related courses such as community studies, rural sociology, national development, and sociology of the economy.

With the face-to-face program, Lagunay added that although the junior anthropologists and sociologists were taught theories on societal behaviors in all aspects, learning “should not be confined to four corners of the room.”

“Learning about social issues hits differently when you experience life itself instead of learning about it in the textbooks, internet, or posts in social media,” he said.

During the program’s briefing, Lagunay said “Makinig,Makilahok,

at Makibahagi” [Listen, Participate, and Contribute] to JASS members as a guide in conducting the program in the community.

“This meant that they have to be observant with their surroundings and how the people behave; participate in the occurrences in their daily life; and to try to be a part of the community,” said Lagunay.

Kurt Ceniza, former JASS president, said the program was designed for JASS members to share their knowledge and skills.

“We made sure that the skills we share are practical and [useful] in their lives [the learners] in the future,” he said.

With the start of the second semester of the school year 2022-2023, JASS ratified its constitution and bylaws and conducted the re-election of officers on Feb. 22. The newlyelected president is Jairus Waban. tWS

by ALLIANAH BOLOTAULO

THE AMERICAN CONCRETE Institute Philippines - Silliman University Student Chapter (ACIP-SUSC) leveled up to 2022 Excellent University from their Outstanding award status last year.

American Concrete Institute’s (ACI) Award for University Student Activities Program is based on a university’s total points from their participation in select ACI-related activities.

The winners this year were announced last Feb. 10, with 55 universities worldwide awarded “excellent,” while 53 were awarded “outstanding.”

ACIP-SUSC President Charmel Cainglet said they were unable to reach 12 points last year, the needed number of points to get an excellent award, because of the pandemic.

This year, the ACIP-SUSC joined different events under the ACI and other concrete-related events.

According to Danielle Still Tinambacan, ACIPSUSC External vice-president,

their administration “has been eyeing for a change since day one.”

For the first time, they joined the 2022 ACI Fiber-Reinforced Concrete Bowling Bowl Competition at Far Eastern University Institute of Technology, Manila, where participants were tasked to put fiber reinforcement within the concrete shaped like bowling balls. ACIP-SUSC also participated in local community causes. Together with the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers SUSC, they conducted a tree planting event at the Dumaguete Eco Park Solid Waste at Brgy. Candau-ay. They also provided supplies and necessities at the Calabnugan Orphanage in Sibulan.

Thessalonica Yocor, ACIPSUSC Internal vice-president, said that receiving the award is a “great honor” for the organization.

“Aside from being recognized at the international level as one of the student chapters in the Philippines that received the Excellent award, all the individual’s efforts paid off, not just the officers but also our student members,” she said. tWS

JASS volunteer instructed students at Mabunao Integrated School about rug-making Photo courtesy JuniorAnthropologistsand SociologistsofSilliman

ACIP-SUSC (Courtesy of American Concrete Institute Philippines - Silliman University Student Chapter).

Drew Strong BS Marine Bio IV

“Resident Choncc sa IEMS.”

“Edith Carson Hall’s very own dorm dog - Sparky!”

Pauleen Guevarra STEAM 11 - SHS

“Astrazeneca/Ginger (Lib Cat).”

Carla Antonette Baliola BSCpE - 1

“Charles the PolSci cat.” Calvin Castillo 11 HUMSS - SHS

“Sol.” Jah Thea Provichado BSND III

frompage5| NGO visits SU... use technology for education.

In SU, Dr. Dave Marcial, director of Silliman Online University Learning (SOUL), discussed how challenging traditional educational techniques have allowed SU to teach students an “entrepreneurial mindset.”

He said this mindset will help them build a peaceful feature.

“[W]e need to invest in innovation—not necessarily [through] financial [means], but through [investments in] effort and leadership,” he added.

SU Student Government (SUSG) also presented initiatives

they implemented where social media was a key factor.

“Because [we were able to maximize] our presence in digital spaces, people understand the importance of responding to issues and engaging with [marginalized] sectors,” said Andrei Elizalde, executive secretary of the SUSG.

Santos also said that SU being an active player in the academic field and socio-civic engagement made Dumaguete a prime venue for the conference.

The engagement with SU was one of the activities in the T4P, an initiative from IGEEI.

IGEEI partnered with SU sociocivic organization Renaissance Youth

SU-Law Dean set for launching of Bitcoin book

by STEFAN SALDON Bitcoin before everybody else does, then it’s an advantage for our graduates,” said Hilbay.

WITH HIS book launching on Mar. 9, Atty. Florin Hilbay, Silliman University College of Law (SULaw) Dean, said that it “will make Silliman ahead of everybody else.”

Atty. Hilbay’s goal, through his book titled Bitcoin, is to educate people about the cryptocurrency as a new technology through understanding the history of money and it as “the best form of money humans ever had.”

He said that the book’s launching is special since it is the “first of its kind” that appeals to students and makes it a subject matter that should be studied in the classroom.

“If you have a generation of Sillimanians who get to study

As a member of the SU faculty, Atty. Hilbay said that he hoped Sillimanians will understand Bitcoin “fast and well.”

He also said that he hopes to develop a Bitcoin circular economy in Silliman and give lectures and presentations at universities and organizations about it.

Atty. Hilbay said the book is for everyone and he hopes for his fellow Filipinos to understand it easily.

“Once properly educated, it will be no different from upgrading from typewriters to the internet,” he said.

Bitcoinis the result of Atty. Hilbay’s two-year study of the technology. tWS

frompage1| Ex-news anchor...

(Several news organizations also have skeletons in the closet, but why have only a select few been threatened by President Rodrigo Duterte? Why are there news organizations that are categorically spreading lies but are not run after?),” he said. “Because they’re singing hosannas [to] President Duterte and President Marcos.”

The Marshall McLuhan Fellowship is awarded to one “outstanding” investigative journalist in the Philippines every year.

The fellowship has been sponsored by the Embassy of Canada in the Philippines since 1997.

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ACCEPTING COLUMN SUBMISSIONS

Leaders Forum (RYLF) to coordinate T4P’s interactions with local institutions, while the Erasmus+ KA2 Program provided partial funding for the delegates.

International delegates came from the International EDUCenter of Romania, Field Services and Inter-cultural Learning India, Regionalne Centrum Wolontariatu w Kielach (Regional Volunteer Center) of Poland, Center for Sustainable Development Studies of Vietnam, and North Macedonia.

Apart from SU, T4P’s international delegates also visited Foundation University, Negros Oriental State University, and the Local Youth Development Office for discussions on the same topics. tWS

Esguerra hosts “Facts First,” a weekly independent podcast that aims to combat disinformation in politics.

He was also a reporter for the Philippine Daily Inquirer, a political correspondent for ABSCBN News, and a managing editor and anchor for ANC. tWS

frompage1| SU orgs hold...

“Doing so allows us to selfevaluate how we might help those who are in need and how we can use our lives to become a blessing to them,” she said.

“The victims always have a different narrative, so it’s really important to connect with them first,” Saga said.

He explained that they have “brilliant ideas and suggestions”

There are 9 differences between the two photos. Can you spot them all?

Answers to the puzzle will be published on the next issue.

You may send your 300-500 words opinion write-up to the Weekly Sillimanian email: weeklysillimanian@su.edu.ph. You are free to choose your topic. Kindly include your full name and a photo of yourself. Please submit in an editable file format. For inquiries, contact us through our social media accounts.

that can guide student groups in supporting the victims.

Dakay expressed her gratitude to those who donated and helped disseminate information about the donation drive.

“Together, let’s continue to have the willingness to serve the community in our future community-centered endeavors, padayon!” she said. tWS

spot the difference

International NGOs Photo courtesy Claire Alumbre