No. 20

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years TOWA R D S A PRO G RE SSI V E C AMPU S PRE SS VOL. LXXXIX NO.20 FRIDAY, JANUARY 26 2018

CHECK THE LABEL. A student was caught throwing plastic bottles in the biodegradable trash bin. Student government Environment Committee Chair Julmar Misa said that there is a mismanagement of waste in Silliman and that change should start in the administration. However, SU Buildings and Grounds Superintendent Edgar Ygnalaga said waste segregation is more of student’s “moral obligation.” PHOTO BY Jill Silva (This photo is staged for emphasis.)

SG: Admin should start change in waste segregation

SOLID WASTE segregation is a “moral [obligation]” of students said Silliman University Buildings and Grounds (SUBG) superintendent Edgar Ygnalaga.

But student government Environment Committee (EnviroComm) Chair Julmar Misa said that “change should start from SUBG because they have the authority to implement changes.”

In an interview with the Weekly Sillimanian (tWS) last Jan. 23, Misa

said there is a mismanagement of solid waste in the university.

“There’s still no segregation going on and we already pointed that out to the administration [since first semester]. However, this [issue] has not been addressed until today,” Misa said.

Although there are colorcoded trash bins in the university, they become useless because the biodegradable, non-biodegradable and recyclable wastes are just mixed

S ommer J. Buyante News Editor

together and deposited to the open dumpsite in Brgy. Candau-ay, Misa said.

This was confirmed by SUBG superintendent Ygnalaga himself.

“Waste coming from students in trash bins around the university are not segregated before compactors collect them and send them to the dumpsite,” he said in an

interview with tWS. Ygnalaga added the plastic bottles that can be sold or recycled, however, are thrown along with residual or single-use waste.

The university is dumping an average of 200 cubic meters of trash per month to the city’s dumpsite.

The trash comes from the whole Silliman campus, including residential areas such as dormitories and Silliman Village, SU Medical Center, P4

Architecture org tops SU organizations J am eel a I . M e n d oz a News Writer

ENRICHING FORUM. Professors of the History and Political Science Department (L-R) Regan Jomao-as, Dr. Enrique Oracion, Dr. Earl Jude Cleope, Dr. Jojema Indab, Jessa Selibio, Dr. Margaret Helen Alvarez, John Barry Nuico, Rev. Carlos Magtolis, Victor Emmanuel Enario) are present during the research forum of Indab and Selibio entitled “The Political Leadership in the Province of Negros Oriental: Focus on the Provincial Governors from 1945 to the Present” last Jan. 18 at Multi-Purpose Hall.

PHOTO FROM Carlee Cherokeeh Calingacion

UNITED ARCHITECTS OF THE PHILIPPINES-STUDENT AUXILIARY SILLIMAN UNIVERSITY (UAPSA- SU) chapter is the top performing organization in the university in the first semester, 2017- 2018.

According to the announcement of the SU Student Government Committee on Student Organization (SUSG-ComSO) last Jan. 11, UAPSA-SU gained a total of 768, 985 points last semester.

UAPA-SU president Robert Banse said, “It is the first time to be included in ComSo’s partial list of top 10 organizations.”

“The most significant activity that we had [so far this school year] would be ‘Project 5Cs: Fostering Youth Nationalism Through Arts’ because it is targeted towards our chosen community and it advocates for a positive impact to our community,” Banse said.

The project aims to develop a sense of nationalism towards the youth, using arts as a tool, he added.

UAPSA’s activities and events this year also involve students outside their college, such as “Banyuhay: Correlating Cities with the Environment,” a lecture they co-organized with SUSG P4

“Duo Concertante” features SU, UP musicians

SILLIMAN UNIVERSITY (SU) alumnus Ricardo C. Abapo Jr. put his talent into display in “Duo Concertante for Piano” concert with fellow pianist Gabriel Allan Paguirigan, from University of the Philippines Diliman, last Jan. 20 at Luce Auditorium.

Abapo Jr., a former part-time instructor at SU College of Performing and Visual Arts, and Paguirigan performed the music of world-re-

nowned composers like Bach, Petri, Chrisse Martha B. Gillesania News Writer Mombou, Debussy and Mozart.

Abapo also did a solo during the second part of the program, playing Culture and Arts Council and the two pieces entitled Luha and Ang university.

“We felt like the program was Larawan by Filipino composer F. too long already, so we wanted to ofBuencamino.

As an ending piece, the duo fer a shorter piece, pero parang may played a piano medley featuring ‘ganoon’ sa puso,” said Paguirigan resongs by various Filipino artists such garding their medley performance.

Abapo added that they also as Ryan Cayabyab.

The event was sponsored by SU wanted the audience, who were

prominently Filipinos, to relate with the songs more.

Paguirigan and Abapo met in 2015 during the finals of the National Music Competition for Young Artists- Piano/Senior Category, held at the Cultural Center of the Philippines.

Paguirigan was declared champion.

Paguigiran said P4 although he and

Check Inside

twsOPINION

EDITORIAL

Shared Responsibilities

SU produces 74 new teachers

Chrisse Martha B. Gillesania News Writer SILLIMAN UNIVERSITY (SU) produced a total of 74 new teachers in the September 2017 Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) for both Elementary and Secondary Level.

SU’s Elementary Level passing rate is 71.74 percent, or 33 out of 46 takers from. Thirty-one of whom are first-timers while two are re-takers.

On the other hand, 71 out of 90 or 78.80 percent passed in the Secondary Level. Sixty-six are first-timers while five are re-takers.

Both results are higher than the national passing rates of 26.33 percent and 46.37 percent for Elementary a n d Secondary Level, respec- P4 Paguirigan and Abapo

PHOTO BY Dave Ludocdoc

2 twsopinions

the weekly sillimanian January 26, 2018

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I

t is ironic that Silliman University (SU), which is known for its intellectual and environmental leadership, still does not practice proper solid waste segregation.

As the Zero Waste Month is coming to an end, Dumaguete City is still haunted by its intensifying garbage problem. Waste of all sorts are now overflowing in the gigantic open dumpsite in Candau-ay, causing floods and poisoning the air and bodies of water.

It is disappointing that despite this reality, SU continues to keep its eyes closed while throwing waste that has never undergone segregation. Every month, the university is throwing an average of 200 cubic meters of its waste in the dumpsite.

Aside from bottles and tin cans, the unsegregated waste coming from trash bins may contain other materials that can be used or recovered in Material Recovery Facility (MRF) of SU. Since waste collected from residential, commercial, education, and medical areas in Silliman is not monitored before they are sent to dumpsite, there is a high possibility that waste such as glass, metals, food leftovers, and even hazardous waste are included.

If this is the reality, then the cleanliness inside the university is a lie. If we do not see overflowing trashcans dumped inside the university, it is only because we dump most of our garbage in a place we cannot see--the city’s open dumpsite.

In a study conducted by Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives, it was found that only seven percent of what people throw away are actually waste, the rest can still be recovered. Imagine if only seven percent of SU’s unsegregated waste are turned over to the dumpsite and the rest are recovered in the MRF.

However, this doesn’t mean that establishments in the university who are still distributing plastics should not be liable for SU’s residual waste. Plastic regulation must also be imposed upon them.

All of this is only possible if the university shows a strong commitment to pushing for a Zero Waste University. This is easier said than done, but it can be started with small steps such as massive campaign for proper waste segregation.

Engr. Edgar Ygnala has challenged SUSG Environmental Committee to educate the students and monitor the waste segregation.

As much as SUSG plays a vital role in leading students in environmental protection, the Administration needs to realize that this is a shared problem, not just of the students, but also faculty, staff, pastors, dorm managers, the admin themselves and everyone in the university who throws waste.

After all, SU’s vision is to be “A leading Christian institution committed to total human development for the well-being of society and environment.” Blessed with intellect and resources, aren’t we all commanded by the Almighty to be good stewards of Earth? tws

editorial

I think SEC did the right thing in revoking Rappler’s registration. If they violated the law, then they must face the consequences, simple as that. Why it is that Rappler is making the “inaapi” effect here? Not because they were a strong critic of the Duterte administration, doesn’t mean the Duterte administration will deprive Rappler freedom of press. If Rappler is really fighting for freedom of press, then they should tell the people honestly that they violated the law and will not deny it.

Mark Nicko E. Paquibot, AB Political Science - III I can’t comment on the legality of the decision, but what it does do is send a signal that the press is not invulnerable from the scrutiny of the Executive (even if the current SEC chair is a Aquino appointee). It’s made the government look very intolerant of the press not only to Filipinos but also to foreigners. No matter what the Executive branch says about Rappler deserving it, it doesn’t really matter because the message that the government won’t tolerate dissent is already out there.

Dale Casocot, BBA Economics III If it has been proven that Rappler is not 100% Filipino owned, I think that SEC has all the right to revoke their registration. We can’t let any news outlet influence us especially when they themselves do not follow the law of the Republic of the Philippines.

What I just want to emphasize is that we should follow the law.

Souljah Harris Faller, BS Foreign Affairs - III I think that the revocation made by the SEC is somehow valid because Rappler has already accumulated a certain amount of violations against the ownership and control rules of a social media site. Certainly Rappler has been very informative and instructive in distributing news for the past years, but it is noted that there should’ve been no violations whatsoever for Rappler to proceed as an “online news outlet.”

Francesca Remollo, BBA Management III

INCINERATION IS NOT A SOLUTION LIFE IN TWO CENTS Esther Micah Gillesania News Writer

Being a native of Dumaguete, I have seen how this city has become more urbanized over the years. It has developed and given a lot of job opportunities to unemployed people more than before. Shopping malls and other establishments have also been built to offer convenience among the residence and travel-goers. But, with all these developments, we have forgotten to take into consideration other people and the environment of the It was four in the afternoon in an ordinary day when I passed by our neighborhood. I observed how households wanted to completely get rid of their waste, so they incinerate their waste. Incineration is the defined as the act of getting rid of wastes by burning them. In the layman’s term, it is called the “daob.”

I saw how my mother would complain because the smoke even spread inside our house and we had

to close our windows and doors, so not to inhale the awful smell. There were instances that I had difficulty breathing because of too much smoke. How does incineration affect our health? Or more importantly, is it an effective way to get rid of wastes?

According to Alternative Energy (AE) News, “the incineration process produces two types of ash—bottom and fly ash. Bottom ash comes from the furnace and is mixed with slag, while fly ash comes from the stack and contains components that are more hazardous. In municipal waste incinerators, bottom ash is approximately 10% by volume and approximately 20 to 35% by weight of the solid waste input. Fly ash quantities are much lower, generally only a few percent of input. Emissions from incinerators can include heavy metals, dioxins and furans, which may be present in the waste gases, water or ash.”

In various stages of such thermal technologies, toxics are produced.

These can be created during the pro-

sillimaniansspeak Compiled by Miles Therese Granada, Circulation Manager

“What are your thoughts on Securities and Exchange Commission’s decision to revoke Rappler’s registration?”

I believe the SEC’s decision to revoke Rappler’s registration was a clear manifestation of how this administration does not value press freedom. Rappler may have committed a violation, I think it would be just and fair to give the corporation time to cure what they’ve caused instead.

Ayla Veremeika R. Gaudiel, Grade 12 STEAM Reviewing the SEC’s decision, it was quite clear that Rappler has violated the constitution.

But we should also consider that there may have been a motive to SEC’s decision, especially that Rappler articles are critical to the Duterte administration.

Al-khaizer Bael Warad, BSCE-III I don’t think it is too much of a problem whether they stay or leave. Rappler tries to defend itself under the banner of free press, yet at the same time the Philippines is considered one of the most free press in Asia.

Francis Angelico L. Visitacion, BMC-IV I do think that the Duterte Administration, out of personal interests, had something to do with this but for Rappler’s part, they also had faults for letting in foreign investor/stakeholders which is against the law.

Lexandrea Bliss V. Dela Cerna, BS in Civil Engineering-V

Rappler is a very controversial company which is why it receives so much attention not just from the public but also from the government. The possibility of the government going out of its way to revoke the registration is possible, but then again, if the grounds are enough, there are laws to be followed. I am for freedom of speech. Let’s just make sure we do it right.

Marjy R. Martinez, BSPT-IV

Next Issue’s Question:

How can Silliman help in solving the growing garbage problem of Dumaguete City?

For your answers, just scan the logo on the left or text the CIrculation Manager (09759664662). Indicate your full name (with middle initial), course and year.

News Writers

Editor-in-Chief Associate Editor News Editor Features Editor Business Manager Web Manager Office Manager Circulation Manager

Ray Chen S. Bahinting Gresheen Gift M. Libby Sommer J. Buyante Carlee Cherokeeh T. Calingacion Jenievieve Ann O. Amores Jedidiah Jan L. Colinco Jasmyn Olmido Doreen Joan P. Lumayag Miles Therese P. Granada

Feature Writers

Esther Micah B. Gillesania Chrisse Martha B. Gillesania Francis Ryan B. Pabiania Meilynne Gem C. Sonjaco Edna Lhou P. Masicampo Joevic B. Baclayanto Jameela I. Mendoza

Layout Artists Graphic Artist Cartoonists Photojournalists

Merell Lystra L. Recta Angelica Mae D. Gomez Margarita M. Delos Santos Kyle B. Reyes Adviser

tws

(Esther is a pioneering member of Association of Young Environmental Journalists.)

I see it as a politically driven attack on a perfectly neutral internet news outlet since the current administration has a strange disposition towards any mainstream media. The administration places more legitimacy towards fake news conspiracists and bloggers who paint a bad picture and provide false quotations to get favor from the public.

Jedidiah Belciña, BS in Mechanical Engineering-V I think the SEC’s revocation regarding Rappler’s registration is more of the foreign ownership issue and not really about the oppression of their freedom of expression.

They can still publish their news and their journals so for me their freedom of speech was not taken away from them.

Charms Kirby Lumjod, BS in Nursing-II In my opinion, Rappler is a very useful site especially when you want to know what’s happening within the country. Now about RAPPLER’s registration being revoked by the SEC, I personally don’t think that’s the best solution for the matter at hand.

Kliff Rajh L. Partosa, BS in Civil Engineering - IV My analysis is very simplistic, I suppose, since I have not utterly delved yet on the issue. But I think this is an outright transgression of the freedom of the press. This move aims at silencing our journalists, media practitioners, etc. which ought not to be tolerated. I firmly stand with the right to free expression.

Allison Cruyff V F. Ladero, AB Philosophy IV Free press and free speech come at a cost. Being a student of sociology, the most important thing to us is factual data and truth even in little things. Falsehood has no place in any media. I am with the decision of the removal of their registration mainly because they are responsible for what they put out.

Lance Justin Tan, AB Sociology III The SEC’s decision on revoking Rappler’s registration would give the Philippine media a huge favor in having unbiased reports. They have been bombarding the President questions which seem to favor the group of people who hate the administration of Duterte, instead of giving equal views and reports.

Adrian Dee A. Bustaleño, BS Agricultural Business II

Irah Kaye R. Osumo Michael Diosim C. Endab Gloria Gem T. Lumayag Hervey Angelo F. Avenido Josh Parilla Al Remuel B. Tubongbanua Hannah Diane E. Bengco Jill C. Silva Enrique Nicholas M. Bejar Dave Dianne O. Ludoc Celia E. Acedo

cess, in the stack pipes, as residues in ash, scrubber water and filters, and in fact even in air plumes which leave the stack. With this information, there’s no safe way to avoid their production or to destroy them—it is unavoidable. If trapped in ash or filters, these become hazardous wastes themselves.

They are also major releasers of cancer-causing dioxins and furans. In areas near incineration, study shows that the risk of dying from cancer is higher in those places. These communities are highly vulnerable.

Good thing our former Silliman University President, Dr. Angel Alcala, banned incineration inside the campus. I can breathe fresh air without worrying about the awful smell and the health risks from smoke. I spend most of my time in the campus, so I find it relieving.

I just hope that one day, Dumaguete will have strict implementation of Republic Act (RA) 8749 or the “Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999.”

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) 422-6002 local 243. https://www.facebook.com/tWSilliman/ https://www.twitter.com/tWSilliman/ theweeklysillimanian.com weeklysillimanian@su.edu.ph Opinions expressed in the columns are those of the columnists and not of tWS or of Silliman University. Comments, questions, and suggestions are highly appreciated. All submitted manuscripts become the property of tWS. Manuscripts will be edited for brevity and clarity.

Member: College Editors Guild of the Philippines

PHOTO FROM: https://www.facebook.com/CultureArtsCouncil/

Shared Responsibility

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the weekly sillimanian January 26, 2018

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MUSIC & DREAMS 12 Questions for Ricardo Abapo Jr.

Ricardo Abapo Jr. graduated as cum laude of Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance in 2013 and worked as a part-time instructor at Silliman University College of Visual and Performing Arts for three years. He competed in National Music Competition for Young Artist (NAMCYA) at the Cultural Center of the Philippines.

He was a recipient of a scholarship program in Paris International Piano Summer Sessions and played in various concerts in other countries such as in US Virgin Islands and France.

He performed with co-NAMCYA competitor from University of the Philippines- Diliman Allan Paguirigan in the “Duo Concertante for Piano” concert last Jan. 20 at Luce Auditorium.

1. Who was your main inspiration in playing the piano and what age did you start practicing it?

I started playing the piano very late unfortunately. I saw the piano, well it was an electric Yamaha keyboard, during my freshman year in high school as I was part of the Angklung Club.

Back in college, the pianists that truly inspired me (and still do!) were. . . it’s a long list so I’ll list down my top 3: Martha Argerich, Krystian Zimmerman and Marc-Andre Hamelin. These are living gods.

2. What are the struggles of playing the piano and how did you overcome those struggles?

Struggles in playing the piano can be very personal. It depends on every pianist. Each one of us have unique differences, life experiences, circumstances and even anatomy is a factor and therefore all these factors contribute to our personal struggles.

3. How will you influence a non-instrumentalist to giving the piano a try?

To spark interest for someone to play the piano is to hit the right spot of that specific person. So it would be best to play something that will make his or her eyes twinkle in delight. Kids are easier, you can just play for them a nursery rhyme in 1 finger and they’ll want to learn it.

o c k

Merell Lystra L. Recta Feature Writer

whether the road I’m taking is truly for me or not. But what I always think is that I have come this far already, should I really stop now?

4. If your life was a piano piece, what would it be and why?

If I’m really forced to just choose one that would encapsulate everything, it would be Chopin’s Ballade No. 4 in F minor.

This piece holds a very special place in my heart and it is a dream to play this extremely difficult piece one day.

9. Were you ever insecure of other pianists and how did you cope with this insecurity?

Oh definitely a resounding yes! Child prodigies are our monsters! Just like what I said in the previous question, we have high self-esteem issues and that comes with self-doubt and insecurities. I remember saying to myself, “I should be the first one to practice and the last one to finish practicing in the school.” I truly did practice like crazy before.

For me, it’s okay to feel like that, at the end of the day, it’s all about creating beautiful music in the present capacity you can.

5. Aside from being a pianist, what are your other hobbies or interests?

You know I would have been a Marine Biologist if I didn’t pursue Music! I was really set to becoming a Marine Biologist during high school. During freshman year in college, I actually approached our biology teacher Ma’am Basa and asked her if they have a Marine Biology degree and she said there was none and it was only offered as a Masters Degree.

As to hobbies, I would jokingly tell my friends then that I was a master in Badminton.

6. How did playing the piano change or help you improve as an individual?

It’s not just piano. I would say MUSIC in general. Music is highly spiritual. It connects you to your really inner core and being. You are mostly by yourself practicing. The long lonely hours of practicing in isolation studying your music just really makes you very philosophical in life. The more you study and try to understand the lines in the music you’re studying, the more it makes you think what life is about. In short, it gives you so much existential crises!

7. Do you believe that music can be the best therapy? Why and why not?

I would like to believe so that music is one of the best, if not the best, therapy there is available to mankind. What I can definitely say on a personal level is that I really feel lucky that I somehow know how to play the piano a bit and have this amazing opportunity to just let it be my outlet to pour whatever it is inside me that’s troubling me.

8. Have you ever thought of giving up being a pianist? If so, how did you overcome it?

Yes. It’s normal! Musicians have what we call the “musician’s blues” every now and then. We are very highly emotional people, prone to depression and self-esteem issues. I’m actually on a crossroad right now and really contemplating about life

10. If your parents or siblings were against you on playing the piano, are you still going to pursue being a pianist?

If my siblings were against my pursuit in the piano, they cannot do anything about it. They have no power over me and my decisions when it comes to choosing my course just as I have no power over them whatever their life choices are

I am very grateful despite having “tiger” parents. They have always been so supportive in whatever I do.

11. Which is easier to play the piano, when you’re heartbroken or you’re in love?

It’s easier to play when you’re in love! You’re all giddy, excited and motivated to play. I would even create videos of me playing and dedicate it. You just become cheesy when you’re in love you know.

12. Who are your favorite composers and how did they shape you as a musician today?

Before I entered music school, I was crazy about Scott Joplin and his ragtime pieces! As of now, it’s so much harder to single out a favorite composer as there’s so much beautiful gems in the piano literature that truly move me deeply.

As to what I am as a musician today, I am still such a work in progress. I still have a long way go to and the roads are very rocky as of the moment but as long as I see where there are roads, I’ll keep going. And if I should stumble into a roadblock, then I’ll just take a detour and create my own path. It could be much longer, much rockier and more uncertain, but if it leads to the same destination, what’s the matter? And what if it does not?

Then I’ll take solace that at least I tried. tws

ATTACK ON PRESS FREEDOM OR JUST BEING LEGAL? LOCAL MEDIA PRACTITIONERS SPEAK

The Weekly Sillimanian asked some local media practitioners, a campus publication and some academicians about their thoughts on the revocation by the Securities and Exchange Commission of the registration of the online media company Rappler.

We asked these questions:

1. What are your thoughts about the issue?

2. Do you think that is an attack on press freedom?

3. How important is press freedom?

Ely Dejaresco, Editor-in-Chief, The Negros Chronicle: 1. It is a curtailment of the Freedom of the Press.

2. Press freedom is everything because it is democracy.

Mike Ramo, DJ, Energy FM, Dumaguete 1. SEC’s mandate is to check on the incorporation of companies. Constitution says mass media should be 100% noypi owned. Rappler has Omidyar Network, a foreign media, as an incorporator. So it violated that part of the constitution.

2. Not at all. Why? Rappler continues to publish. And anyone can publish.

3. Press Freedom is very, very important. Unfortunately, press is not that free because some practitioners are under someone’s payroll.

Raffy Cabristante, DJ, Yes FM Dumaguete 1. It surely is saddening because another media entity doing its job to inform the public has been ordered to close. The good thing about it, though, is that it goes to show that journalists are brave and they will stand their ground when their function is threatened. I applaud Maria Ressa and the rest of the Rappler team (some of whom are very good friends of mine) for their bravery and resolve.

2. In a way, yes. But I think the main issue here is the alleged discrepancies in the way they are owned and managed. I just hope the folks at Rappler will be able to clear things out in the proper forum, which I think is what they’re doing right now.

3. For a democracy like ours to thrive, it must have a free press that holds the government accountable to its people. A free press keeps the public informed, so the latter can make informed opinions or decisions, positive or negative.

Ray Chen S. Bahinting Editor-in-Chief

The NORSUNIAN, the official campus publication of Negros Oriental State University (Dumaguete Campus) 1. With the thought of SEC’s revocation of Rappler, whose aim is to speak the truth for the people, freedom of the press directly hindered; but we should also take note that we are in a country wherein we should abide by the rules granted by the 1987 constitution. Although the press is given its freedom as per Article III, Section 4 of the constitution, if it is a business entity, then it should follow the regulations for it to perform its activities. But we, nevertheless, desire for the truth and nothing but the truth since we do not claim to know anyone from Rappler, or from any of the concerned parties of the issue.

2. Since SEC has its grounds as to why it had to revoke Rappler’s registration, we do not think of it really as an attack. As we have mentioned [from our first answer], the press is intended to have freedom, but if it is a business entity, then it shall abide by the rules of SEC. And if Rappler really is a hundred percent Filipino-owned and is simply stating the truth, then there is no reason for its staff and other members to think that it is being attacked. We are a democratic country, after all. Inspections are essential for regulation and order.

3. Press freedom is very much important, especially to us [members of the press] because if not, then it shouldn’t have been granted in our constitution. Press freedom is equal to accessing the truth deserved by the Filipino citizens. And since the press is granted with that freedom, its members should learn to maximize it without being biased to a particular party in a particular issue; but biased to a truth.

SU Assistant Professor Dr. Maria Cecilia M. Genove, Editorin-Chief, Island News 1. This maybe a very unpopular thought because I teach mass communication, but we have to abide by what is embodied in the Constitution and the Constitution says that although there is a freedom of expression relegated to everybody, all forms of media in particular, but it has to have 100 percent Filipino ownership. So in other words, Rappler, although their intentions are very good, they maybe the most innovative media platform today because isn’t it that they are digital, they gone through great

lengths, online and so on,but they have violated, according to the SEC. 2. I don’t think it is. I think very much that democracy is very much alive and well. Members of media, the press, all platforms of mass media, we are still as free as ever here in the Philippines.

No, there is no attack at all on Philippine mass media. But if I have to say this, again, we have to abide by what is in the constitution. Today perhaps, many among those who are members of media may probably have abused their so-called freedom of expression. Today, if we are analytical with how media cover various personalities, I can see a polarization gyud. There are members of media who have become political which is very sad.

Melita Aguilar, Officer-in-charge, SU College of Mass Communication 1. The first reaction I had when I read about it was, why did it take SEC three years to decide that they would want to revoke the registration of Rappler, when in fact, they applied for a registration in 2015. But further readings told me that they were still in the process of making a decision as to whatever it was.

2. In a way, yes. Why? Because of the animosity, I may call it animosity, between Rappler and Malacañang especially on the President. It shows in the several press conferences that the President, for example, acted that way he acted in a press conference.

Never in my life did I experience that a press con turned out the way it went the time when Pia Ranada was there (referring to the viral video earlier this month where President Duterte hurled angry replies to questions from Rappler writer, Pia Ranada). As a news source or as a person of authority, to say something about an issue, the best thing, for me, that he could have done was just give the statement as it is or as he wanted it to sound but not single out somebody in the audience and, if I may use the word, ostracize.

3. [Mass] media [are] always considered the fourth estate.

So, the media are the watchdog. If there is curtailment, how can it function as it should be? As somebody from the academe, we always inculcate in the minds of our communication students to be balanced, to be accurate. Never forget that you also have your responsibility when you write your story. You are there to tell a story, you are there not to criticize unless it is a commentary. But if it’s a straight news article you are writing, you are there to give accurate information. In communication—accuracy, accuracy, accuracy equals journalism. tws

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the weekly sillimanian January 26, 2018

Let Us Go Minimal: Change starts with ourselves. The deteriorating state of our nature today due to the enormous production of garbage from individuals can be lessened. By living a minimalist lifestyle, one helps the environment recover by slowing down the production of waste. Here are some products that will help you start a minimalist lifestyle: REUSABLE NAPKINS

SHAMPOO BAR

Not only do these help you save money but they help in reducing menstrual cramps, infections, and skin rashes too.

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BAMBOO TOOTHBRUSH

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roundup SG...

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Cafeteria, SU Marine Laboratory and private establishments.

However, Ygnalaga explained that the university has a Material Recover Facility (MRF) at the back of SUBG. Trash coming from departments in the university such as waste paper, electrical waste, glass and other materials that can be recovered are turned over to SUBG to be placed in the MRF. Moreover, biodegradable waste like leaves and twigs are composted for landscaping; while recyclable ones like glass are used as fillers for building foundation. Electrical waste is sold to licensed treaters.

Moral obligation Ygnalaga said they cannot impose stricter policies regarding waste segregation among the SU...

students because “it is not part of classroom academic instruction” but rather a moral obligation.

“If only students properly throw their trash in the right trash bins, then it is easier for compactors to collect only residual waste,” he added.

SUSG’s duty Moreover, Ygnalaga challenged the Student Government to “educate the students” on waste segregation.

“I’m placing my challenge to the Student Government.” He said it is their job because they are in touch with the students.

He added that SG should not be just educating but also monitoring if the students really practice waste segregation.

However, SUSG EnviroComm chair Misa said they have been doing information drive on waste management through social media.

“For me, they are asking too much from us students. Yes we are

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tively.

Following is the list of the LET passers. (This list is from the SU College of Education. The list is ONLY inclusive of March 2017 graduates who took the LET for the first time.

This does not include the names of retakers, non-March 2017 graduates and non-SU Education majors.)

Elementary level: 1. Ablay, Geraldine C. 2. Bacara, Alma Fe V. 3. Badon, Samantha Jessa T. 4. Balbuena, RJ Faith V. 5. Bao, Janica Alaiza A. 6. Bondoc, Maria Thea J. 7. Casia, Alexaxndra L. 8. Dimasuhid, DC Mae M. 9. Duran, Roselle jane G. 10. Entia, Sharlen 11. Garibay, Rosette Angelic R. 12. Gordoncillo, Ellah Jhane T. 13. Grajo, Caryl M. 14. Jamal, Arifa T. 15. Laque, Mariah Shecaihna 16. Lucin, Claire Ann Marie A. 17. Necesito, Nicole Anne C. 18. Opada, Aisha Al-ham M. 19. Pahamtang, Leonemair Grace D. 20. Pana, Mmich Izen I. 21. Ramirez, Reggiena Marie T. 22. Regala, Jan Edward G. 23. Reyes, Jen Corrine C. 24. Rojo, Joey Mark C. 25. Tia, Harel Jo I. 26. Villaverde, Jyriel Dawn G. 27. Yabres, Maria Fe L. 28. Yamaro, Princess Izza N.

29. Ygona, Anita Generosa S. 30. Yleana, Geli P. 31. Yurong, Ana Grisselle R. Secondary Level: 1. Abines, Shiela Mae Q. 2. Agraviador, Donabella D. 3. Aguilar, Guia A. 4. Aranas, Ricah Mae E. 5. Balderas, May R. 6. Callora, Sherylie D. 7. Colina, Nathalie R. 8. Cortez, Kurt Bryan C. 9. Cortez, Richard Gamaliel C. 10. De Ausen, Grace O. 11. Dizon, Mevizon B. 12. Duran, Sweet Marisse E. 13. Enumerabellon, Noel A. 14. Estrada, Floreen Grace P. 15. Florencio, Florence Rose C. 16. Gatchalian, G.M. Kidd S. 17. Guillen, Dallie Z. 18. Konahap, Cliche Mitch P. 19. Mamenta, Maiza Z. 20. Medez, Shemdaryl S. 21. Mohillo, Marivic G. 22. Palarpalar, Christian Ailah P. 23. Palomares, Xuxa Meg D. 24. Palumar, Dominique A. 25. Partosa, Chelsi Ruth E. 26. Quila, Janice U. 27. Ricafrente, Karylle P. 28. Rosario, Alana Jon B. 29. Sese, Keith Andrew A. 30. Sisona, Ellaine Mae C. 31. Tanate, Abbie A. 32. Vicoy, Quennie Jane A. 33. Zamora, Jose Paolo A.

ANGAT ANG KAYUMANGGI. 51 young leaders from various junior high schools in

the province pose after the 7th Angat Kayumanggi Youth Camp (AKYC) concluded last Jan. 21 at Camp Leon Kilat in Tanjay City. The three-day camp was organized by Dumaguete Ayala Young Leaders Alliance in partnership with Silliman-based organizations such as Ang Sandigan, Kapunungan sa mga Mass Communicators and Masters in Business Administration Society AKYC aims to mold high school students to become nationalistic and idealistic leaders. PHOTO BY Jasmine Scales

educating the students, but in the case of monitoring the waste that the university accumulates, it’s going to be hard,” said Misa.

“SU is composed of hectares of land and it generates lots of trash in the university, (and how many are we) in EnviroComm?” he added.

Monitoring waste in Silliman requires big commitment and students have to attend to their academic demands.

“If they want this to be really addressed, they should put up an office that is actually addressing the environmental issues of Silliman.”

Misa said he has already heard the advice from BG many times before, but he stressed the change should start from BG themselves because they have the authority to implement changes.

Misa said: “It’s so hard to tell students to segregate their garbage when they are telling you, (segregation is useless because garbage is dumped all together).” tws “Duo...

Prititit No More

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Abapo entered the same competition, they weren’t treating each other as competitors.

“During the competition, it seemed like we were friends. We were just scribbling together,” Abapo shared.

In November 2017, the pair worked together during the Season’s Symphonies: Christmas in Vienna holiday concert at Ayala Museum in Makati along with other singers.tws Archi...

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Environment Committee last November.

Banse shared that they are determined to maintain their current standing by pushing for more activities and events that can make a positive social impact on the university and community.

List of Top 10 Organization in the First Semester, 2017-2018: 1. United Architects of the Philippines-Student Auxiliary 2. Silliman University Medical Students’ Association 3.Herodotus Society 4.Silliman Junior Business Executives 5.Silliman University Junior Philip pine Institute of Accountants 6. Siquijorian Students for Enrichment, Enlightenment, Development and Service of Silliman University / SEEDS 7. Silliman University Nutrition and Dietetics Society 8. Beta Epsilon 9. Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers 10. Mona Lisa Society Organizations in SU gain points by participating and conducting socially relevant events in accordance to the guidelines set by SUSG- ComSo. An awarding of the top ten organizations is done annually during SU’s Founders Week celebration. tws

Zero waste helps solve city’s garbage woe, says environmentalist S ommer J. Buyante News Editor

SWITCHING TO ZERO Waste by practicing waste segregation, reusing and recycling and installing Material Recover Facility (MRF) in every barangay will help solve Dumaguete City’s garbage problem, said executive director of Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA) Philippines, Froilan Grate.

GAIA is a worldwide alliance of more than 800 grassroots groups, non-governmental organizations, and individuals in over 90 countries whose ultimate vision is a just, toxicfree world without incineration or burning, as defined in their website.

Grate spoke about zero waste advocacy during the 4th Zero Waste Youth Convergence last Jan. 17 at Foundation University.

Instead of the linear system which is “buy, use, throw,” Grate said Zero Waste is a cyclical system wherein resources used are not thrown away but are instead reused or recycled.

According to GAIA study, only 7 percent among people’s garbage are residual waste or single use waste, while 52 percent can still be used and 41 percent can be sold.

“Hakot-tambak system, sige tapon, pag daan ng track itapon na-

lang, pero ang problema saan ba talaga itatapon? In Dumaguete we are looking for new landfill. That is the question we are trying to solve; saan itatapon?” said Grate.

“But maybe the better question is ‘What can we do para mabawasan ang basurang tinatapon natin?’ That is the real essence of Zero Waste,” he continued.

Grate stressed that the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 (R.A. 9003) says the city government is only responsible over residual waste or wastes that can no longer be used; the rest of the wastes should be collected and managed by every barangay while segregation should start in every home.

According to the law, dumpsites are prohibited and each barangay should have their own MRF where segregated wastes from household will be received for final sorting according to its type for composting and recycling.

However, their study also showed that 60 percent of Filipino households admitted burning their waste and 43 percent to illegally dumping wastes especially in bodies of water.tws