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Towards A Progressive Campus Press | vol. LXXXVii No. 7 | WEDNESDAY, 19 AUGUST 2015
EMOTIONS. The Yuko Takahashi Dance Company performs a dance reflecting Japanese culture during “Reflection: Two Sowls Amidst the Air” last Aug. 14 at the Claire Isabel McGill Luce Auditorium. PHOTO BY Babe Jocelie Isaga
Youth commission urges students to engage in issues
By Andrea Dawn E. Boycillo
NATIONAL YOUTH COMMISSION (NYC), a government agency in the Philippines that addresses issues of the Filipino youth, encouraged student leaders to vote in the 2016 Philippine elections and fight against climate change in a forum last Aug. 15 at the Silliman Hall. Jo Jan Paul Peñol, commissioner for Visayas NYC and Jose Sixto “Dingdong” Dantes III, NYC commissioner-at-large talked about voters’ education and
climate action, respectively. Student leaders from different colleges, departments, and organizations in Silliman University, St. Paul Dumaguete, Negros Oriental State University, and Foundation University participated in the forum. Youth power Peñol said that the elections are not just about the candidates but also about the voters. According to him, the youth must vote because voting is “the most powerful
THROWBACK. Award-winning writer and Silliman University professor Ian Casocot traces back Sillimanian Literature in “Notes on Tracing Sillimanian Literature” on Aug. 17 at the SU Library. PHOTO BY Cheri Ansale
Experts: ‘Water quality needs local effort’ By Leslie J. Batallones
DURING “START A RIPPLE,” the first water conference in Negros Oriental, water experts and environmentalists said that it takes local effort to protecting the environment efficiently. The conference was held last August 14 at the Silliman Hall. The speakers in the water conference talked to local leaders about the impact of water sustainability to sectors, such as agribusiness and forestry, environment and tourism, and business and investments. Dr. Angel Alcala, Chairman of the Silliman University-Angelo King Center for Research and Environmental Management, said that communities will benefit from improved coastal area conditions. “If we want to be excellent in our aim to really champion water sustainability, let us all commit ourselves to protecting our environment, our biodiversity, and our coastal areas,” said Alcala. Meanwhile, Dr. Isabelo Montejo, the Department of Environment and
National Resources Regional Director for Region VII, said that communities are important partners in promoting sustainable environmental programs. “Once the community is engaged, they come to develop a sense of ownership.And once it happens, we can almost certainly expect sustainability,” said Montejo. Water-Excellence Philippines Director Amor Maclang said that WaterExcellence Philippines and Integrated Water Resources Management Council (IWRMC) partnered to inform the local government that Negros Oriental is becoming the Philippine center of excellence for water management. Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo said that the province can show progress through its water programs. Degamo added that water crisis is a serious threat to the sustainable development of the province, which is why the local government is determined to advocate the water sustainability campaign. “We need the support of the entire province—from the locals, the farmers, continue to page 4...
mechanism” created by people to fight apathy. He said that the Filipino youth can use their right to vote to be represented fairly in policy-making bodies. “At the end of the day, we go back to this principle that this is the Philippines, and we are Filipinos. No one else but us is responsible for the future of this country,” Peñol added. He added that the youth’s population “could definitely make a difference” in the 2016 elections. “Every vote counts. One
million votes would not be one million votes without a single vote,” said Peñol. Climate action Dantes said that the youth is needed in the fight against climate change. Dantes proposed 15 things that can be done by the youth every day as climate action. Some of these are planting trees, unplugging gadgets to save energy, lessening plastic and paper use, among others. He added that it is important to
know environmental and energy laws and educate others about them. “Even small contributions matter. The challenge is to really commit,” said Dantes. Along with Dantes’ proposal is a climate change campaign called “#NowPH” or “Not on Our Watch.” It is a campaign that gathers as many signatures as possible in the country. It targets Filipino youth to help prevent global warming from reaching 2°C, the breaking point of climate change. continue to page 4...
By Leslie J. Batallones
ridge-to-reef campaign provides better financial understanding of the links between saltwater and freshwater ecosystems. There are eight projects under the campaign, including the local capacity building to ensure that the community will have the needed skills and capabilities to continue protecting their waters. Many countries around the world managed the campaign well and already have supported livelihoods, with income from fisheries and tourism. Moreover, Maclang said that when Negros Oriental becomes the country’s center of excellence in water management, it would draw other local government units (LGUs) nationwide to focus on this issue and the province’s system. Maclang also said that compared to the tourism or environmental advocacies of other places they visited, Negros Oriental has the most number of environmentally conscious
LGUs, people, and businesses. Negros Oriental ranks number one in implementing the National Greening Program of the Philippines, having planted and reforested about 65,000 hectares against its initial target of 62,000 hectares. Also, the province holds the biggest automated and modernized forest nursery in the Philippines, which will be launched this month or September. In addition, Negros Oriental is the only province in the Philippines that has an almost complete forest land use program (FLUP) implementation, according to Hon. Erwin Macias, Negros Oriental Provincial Board member. “Out of 25 [FLUP], we have implemented 20 already,” Macias said. A Department of Environment and Natural Resources official said that FLUP is a model for LGUs in the wise use of forest land resources. continue to page 4...
could help the victims calm their minds, especially the children. The dance company operates a dance school for young children in Sendai, the Japan region that was hit hardest by the Great Tohoku Earthquake and Tsunami of March 11, 2011. “We guide our students towards a willingness to be tender, to feel gratitude, and to maintain a soft and loving heart, in spite of the tragedies they have survived,” Takahashi said. The dance company performs for free at their studio and a local temple in Sendai to share the important of art in everyday life. “Dance can help unlock the dreams of children, while also building trust with their peers,
and a love of art, culture, and movement,” Takahashi said. Takahashi added that she chose to perform in the country because she finds the Philippines’ history with Japan “interesting.” Through the dance company’s performances in the country, she said that they could promote peace. Takahashi also said that other schools in the city had invited the dance company to perform at their campus, but she specifically chose to perform Silliman University because she “felt that the university is close to her heart.” Yuko Takahashi Dance Company had their first performance entitled “Reflection” last Aug. 15, 2014 at the Luce Auditorium.~
NegOr to rise as Phil Center for Water Excellence
KEY WATER EXPERTS said during the water conference last Aug. 14 at Silliman Hall that making Negros Oriental as the Philippine Center for Water Excellence will push local governments and other provinces in the country to protect their own waters. “We want Negros Oriental to be the center of excellence for water management in the entire Philippines so we can start educating other provinces about how to preserve and manage our country’s water resources,” said Amor Maclang, the director of WaterExcellence Philippines (WEP). WEP is considering the promotion of the ridge-toreef campaign in the province. This campaign aims to restore, rehabilitate, and enhance the ridge part or the mountain slopes up to the sea in coastal areas. Water experts explained that
Japanese dance group returns to SU By Andrea Dawn E. Boycillo
YUKO TAKAHASHI DANCE Company, an award-winning Japanese modern dance group based in Sendai, Japan, made a comeback with a concert entitled “Reflection: Two Sowls Amidst the Air” last Aug. 14 and 15 at the Luce Auditorium. Yuko Takahashi, founder of the dance company, said that their performances last year and this year still have the same purpose – to bring hope not only to the Japanese victims who suffered from the earthquake and tsunami, but also to the Filipinos who have encountered natural disasters. Takahashi said that through dance and dance education, she
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the weekly sillimanian 19 AUGUST 2015
the weekly sillimanian 19 AUGUST 2015
Every Vote Counts
Hibalag 2015:L‘ et’s Wander in Wonderland’
T
he National Youth Commission (NYC), a government agency in the Philippines, has been addressing global and national problems by encouraging and empowering the youth to be part of the solution. City visits, specifically university visits, are among the things NYC commissioners do to reach out to the youth. Last Aug. 15, NYC Visayas Commissioner Jo Jan Paul Peñol and NYC Commissioner-at-Large Jose Sixto “Dingdong” Dantes III went to Dumaguete City for a forum about elections and climate change. In the forum, Peñol talked to student leaders about the importance of the youth in the Philippine elections in 2016. What Peñol said is true: the youth population could definitely make a difference in the 2016 elections. According to Philippine Statistics Authority, the voting age population (18 years old and over) last 2010 was 55.5 million, around 60 percent of the household population in the country. Six out of ten in the household population are also of voting age. In the 2.6 million newlyregistered voters, 80 percent are the youth. Because Philippine elections are fast approaching, individuals who desire to run for different positions in the government are starting to “spray perfume” on their credentials thru campaigns and political ads. One of the main campaign strategies is to reach out to the poor and illiterate. Politicians would opt for vote-buying; they give money, food, and other freebies to them. These tactics make the people vulnerable to bigger problems in the future. They may have received something to alleviate their problems now but what about tomorrow? The Functional Literacy, Education, and Mass Media Survey (FLEMMS) aims to determine literacy rate in the country every five years. It showed that 11 million Filipinos lack functional literacy which, according to UNESCO, is the level of reading, writing, and calculation skills sufficient for a person to function in a given community. Meanwhile, 4 million Filipinos have no basic literacy last 2010, which means a lot of Filipinos can barely read or write, let alone vote wisely. It is believed that they are the usual people falling in the trap of voting for the wrong people, but even the literate vote unwisely, too. Apathy usually makes them either not register themselves or let election period pass without voting (for those who are registered). This makes the less fortunate a dominant force in voting. In Silliman, student politics has always been interesting in terms of campaign strategies of political parties. Sadly, just like in the nationwide setting, not all Sillimanians exercise their right to vote. Students also do not bother knowing the students who run for positions well enough for them to vote for the right people. The Weekly Sillimanian (tWS) believes that as early as now, Sillimanians should have the desire to participate not just in Philippine politics, but also in the student politics. Students should be less apathetic and participate. Then, be sceptical of political promises. tWS also commends NYC for reaching out to student leaders not just from the student government of each respective university, but also to student leaders from other organizations. The student leaders are the ones their fellow students look up to. They should not just preach about being a part of change; they should walk the talk by honoring their promises. ~
By Nurilyn Elli
editorial
sillimaniansspeak Compiled by Jessica A. Remata
“What are your expectations for this year’s Hibalag Festival?” “I expect it to be exciting and worth the wait since we all know that most of the students are stressed from midterm week and I hope the Student Government made a remedy for that. It would give all the students, visitors, alumni an awesome week celebrating Hibalag 2015.” Steffi Caluyo Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering II “My expectations for this year’s Hibalag is that it will be twice as awesome as it was last year. With all the bands and events, I can say that this year’s Hibalag will kick ass.” Kim Valerio, Bachelor of Science in Information Technology II “Fun and more parties. “ Andrew Tayona, Bachelor of Science in Computer Studies II
Next Issue’s Question:
“What is your most memorable experience in this year’s Founders Week?” For your answers, just text the Circulation Manager (09057943107). Indicate your full name (with middle initial), course and year.
Editor-in-chief Andrea D. Lim Associate Editor John Rey L. Villareal News Editor Jameela Antoniette I. Mendoza Feature Editor Christian Renz M. Torres Business Manager Eric Gerard D. Ruiz News Writers Leslie J. Batallones, Jann Viansee O. Cardenas, Paulynne R. Dela Cruz, Ray Chen Bahinting, Feature Writers Nurilyn J. Elli, Shane Marie K. Canono, Benhur Cemini, Ronelyn Faith Vailoces Photojournalists Babe Jocelie B. Isaga, Lucille Jean J. Raterta, Cheri Lian V. Ansale Cartoonist Hervey Angelo F. Avenido Circulation Manager Jessica A. Remata Office Manager Andre Bonne Felipe L. Villareal Layout Artist Gloria Gem T. Lumayag Web Manager Mariana G. Varela Adviser Warlito S. Caturay Jr.
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/pages/ The-Weekly-Sillimanian-2014-2015 theweeklysillimanian1516@gmail.com 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
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Dear Inner Self (A Fiction Letter) I am finally able to check on you, my true self. The confrontation between the two of us was timely, and I’m glad you’re finally able to tell me what’s going on even if I already have an idea about it beforehand. As much as possible, I know you enter the classroom with a mind full of things you learned from the handouts your teachers give you. You’re the kind of person who makes sure that you did not just memorize facts and concepts; you make sure you understand these by heart because acquiring knowledge has always been a pleasure to you. But I also know that after acing all your exams and going up the stage many times to get certificates and awards, one of your teachers remember the one who gave her pasalubong after sem break. Ah, we also talked about sem break and the pain you feel whenever you come back home. You said that the last people you want to be disappointed are your parents. Together with relatives, I’ve seen everyone require you to maintain above average grades and your scholarship. They have high expectations of you. However, I was only able to understand you fully when you said that meeting their expectations would mean studying very hard till the morning because internalizing five chapters in one night is no joke. I was there when you got depressed when you’re too tired, went binge-eating when stressed, buy facial soap when pimples appeared, and
broke down when you felt lost along the process. But I was not really there when the first few things your parents did upon your arrival in the airport was to ask about your weight, tell you that you got fatter, and talk about your brother’s achievements in UP Diliman. You always try to be a true friend, true self. You know you do. You give time to the people you love, despite the day’s demands. You give your constant support and understanding through their life journeys - through the uphill climb, inner battles, wrong detours, and painful falls. Because you love them, as much as possible, you don’t want to see
We all know that the Hibalag celebration is fast approaching. We notice the carpenters slowly constructing the different booths for the 11 dayactivity. Now it’s time to learn the different dos and don’ts for this year’s activity, so that it will be a peaceful and enjoyable experience for everyone. First thing is security. This activity is open to the public, which means everyone has the right to get in and out without presenting valid IDs. Strangers from different places will come and visit the area. You’ll never know if someone will bring a deadly object like a knife or gun. This could cause chaos and disrupt the good vibes the place has. Don’t hesitate to call the authorities. In case of fire or disorders, contact the Dumaguete Police Station (225-1766) or the Dumaguete Fire Department (422-9672). For medical emergencies, contact the SUMC hotline (420-0000). Next thing to be concerned about is the no smoking policy. People are not allowed to smoke on campus. It is one of the main reasons for disturbance.
It may also cause fire because most booths are made of wood and other light materials. Potting and drug sessions are not allowed in campus premises. Anyone caught using drugs or with drug paraphernalia will be arrested and penalized according to the Silliman University Handbook and the Philippine law. Another thing to watch out for are
Bringing Dead Lines to Life Andrea D. Lim
them hurt by other people or worse, by themselves. But your best friend said that the one mistake you did not mean to commit is heavier than the six years of friendship. But your friend chose to highlight a lapse. And you end up paying the price of losing someone priceless without befriending yourself. You still have real friends, don’t worry. Oh boy, those people are worth the keeps. You have special moments with them - late night stargazing, heart to heart talks, and dancing together. But I also know about the matters of your heart. You like one of
Hibalag 101
Observer Ward
Leo Ross B. Dionaldo
the booths themselves. For 11 days, those booths will be the showcase for the different societies, fraternities, and organizations in Silliman. The best of what they have will be presented in their booths. But what if one day, a certain booth will collapse with people inside? It will surely result to injuries. Be sure to check all the booths for problems and directly inform the person in charge or
them. You can write more than the number of Shakespeare’s sonnets for him, but at the same time, you come in full acceptance that you cannot sing well. I’m amazed that you would go as far as inviting him to Watever KTV to sing songs for two (because love is, um, about taking risks). But he chose to be latched with someone who can sing. And you are now catching his eyes looking at her. And you are also catching yourself listening to Sam Smith songs, loving him, and saying the unsaid words from a distance. True self, I’m sorry if I wasn’t able to check on you earlier. I abused your strength. Thank God you’re still trying to survive in an insane and unfair world. This time, I promise we’ll be on the same page of always remembering our worth. You might still be asking for masks, but it’s all right - you’ll be okay. All I can say for now to make you feel better is for you to look at the rose petals instead of the thorns. Look at the other teachers you look up to, your little brother who just wants a hug from you and nothing else, your real friends who would say that it’s your crush’s loss, not yours, and Ed Sheeran. Love, The Outer Self Note to my inner self: Thank you for allowing me to submit this letter to get published. I’m sorry (again) if I didn’t check on you earlier. Live on to see more rainbows.~
who is guarding that booth. Also, do not destroy the exhibits or steal them because they are not yours and also give others a chance to enjoy the booth experience. Keep the surroundings of every booth clean and green. Lastly, do not start a fight, for it will lead to disturbance of peace and may lead to your suspension or expulsion. Hibalag is annually celebrated to celebrate the founding of Silliman University. Not to start a fight or quarrels. This may result to rambles and the peace will be disturbed. Remember that thousands of students and outsiders are around the booth area and you don’t want to get all of their attention. Following these guidelines will help you savor the 2 week long celebration. We have to understand that Hibalag is one of the best experiences a Sillimanian can have on the month of August. Do respect the customs, traditions, and gimmicks of the different organizations. ~
Since the year starter— Silliman Portal Experience (SPEx)—the experience of what it is like to be in Silliman University has already electrified every Sillimanian. With the bar of excitement and expectation set high, the Silliman University Student Government (SUSG) and the Committee on Student Organizations (ComSO) have been confronted with difficulties preparing for the most awaited event of the year, not only in Silliman but in Dumaguete City as a w h o l e — the Hibalag Founders Celebration. As the main highlight of the Founders celebration of Silliman, it has always been pictured with gatherings and merrymakings of S illimanians and alumni around the globe, of course, through the line-up of activities made possible by the efforts of the people behind ComSO. According to Kristy Zaren Pineda, events chair committee of ComSO, the success of SPex set the pressure on fire, so they need to outweigh its stupendousness for this year’s Hibalag to meet the expectations of Sillimanians. “The students will not know the hard work behind so we need to put up a good show for them,” added Kateleen Ogabang, cochair of events committee. On the 114th anniversary of the university, the Hibalag celebration is of great make over. Inspired by the theme Wonderland, the arrangement of booths for
the Hibalag Booth Festival (HBF) is already arranged in sectors, and each sector will have its own theme in relation to Wonderland. The regional sector goes for Festivals, the fraternity/ sorority for Greek (but not all) and the academic sector is given the chance to choose the theme that would be relative to the organization’s course or field of expertise. Cecile “Niña” Sung, ComSO chair said that reinventing Hibalag that way would encourage
each organization to work together with other organizations in each sector. Aside from addressing the organizations into sectors for the HBF, the annual tradition that opens HBF, which is known as Torch Parade is changed to Parade of Lights. Other than safety purposes, it is in the Parade of Lights where organizations incorporate the colors of their lights to the colors that represent them. Out of the concern in bringing back the meaning of Hibalag raised by President Ben S. Malayang III in a meeting with the student leaders, an inspirational idea sprung. From a 10-
day event, the SUSG and ComSO decided to have the 11 days of sharing from Aug.19-29 to make the experience more meaningful. As said by Cecile, Hibalag is always there to welcome all Sillimanians who want to “revel on the experience” of being a true red Sillimanian. The Co-chair of ComSO, Schenitte Tingas also shared that Hibalag is not only for Sillimanians but also open to outsiders who wanted to be part
and Hale rocking the stage all night long. Cuernos Fun Wall Climbing Competition is also back on track for this year’s Hibalag celebration. It’s a competition spearheaded by Cuernos de Negros Mountaineers Club wherein rock and wall climbers in the province are gathered to compete under the rules of the International Federation of Sport Climbing on Aug 20. On the same day, the first-ever Regional
Silliman Idol, and Cheerdance Competition. Miss Silliman, which is established as a prestigious and the longest beauty pageant in the world is already on its 69th anniversary. With the theme, “The Silliman Woman as the Zeitgeist”, 12 ladies will be vying for the crown and the title for this year’s Miss Silliman. “Embodying Peaceful Co-existence Through Silliman Diversity” is Mr. Hibalag’s theme for this year. Ten willed men in promoting peace through the power of diversity will be vying for Silliman’s one and only male-driven a d v o c a c y p a g e a n t . From 100 who auditioned, 32 are accepted in the Live Auditions. Fifteen finalists are chosen from 32 who competed in the 1st Elimination Round. Out of 15, five were eliminated and the top 10 competed in the Second Source: the Weekly Sllimanian 2013-2014 and the Weekly Sllimanian 2014-2015 Elimination, of in the activities, which Organizations Showdown which the top five is revealed. revolve around the 5 Cs organized by the regional The Silliman Idol top five of Silliman—community, sectors head and SG finalists will sing with a church, classroom, court, Advocacy Committee will theme of Popular Music. and cultural center. showcase various festival Who will be this year’s Every year, the fun in dances from different Silliman Idol? Let’s find Silliman during Hibalag regions in the Philippines, out this coming Aug. 28 gets bigger and bolder. This which show the diversity as they prove how talented year, it’s already at its peak we have in Silliman. Sillimanians are. of awesomeness. Because The Hibalag celebration The time of the year has of the enthusiasm of the has always been promising come when Sillimanians get people behind the SG which makes every year the chance to meet as one Marketing, three national a surprise of events. or pakighibalagay sa usa’gbands (Hale, Callalily There might be added usa to share memorable and 6cyclemind) will be and improved events to experiences. “Hibalag is performing on different come up with a superb not only an event; it is an nights at the Hibalag stage celebration but there are experience,” Cecile said. area with free admission. also these traditional The Hibalag experience The opening night of the trademark competitions this year is in Wonderland HBF will be unstoppable in Silliman considered so Sillimanians, “let with the presence of the as essentials towards a us wander” until we special celebrity guest successful and memorable find the true meaning VJs from Myx including Founders celebration— of it in our hearts. ~ VJ Chino in a talk show Ms. Silliman, Mr. Hibalag,
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the weekly sillimanian 19 August 2015
the weekly sillimanian 19 August 2015
The Spirit of the Times
By Shane Canono and Renz Torres
The clock is ticking and the hot seat is sizzling. Before you know it, one woman would be crowned the 69th Miss Silliman. Unleash the essence of time and history with this year’s theme: “The Silliman Woman as the Zeitgeist.” Who among the twelve stunning ladies have what it takes to be the next victor of the Asia’s oldest pageant?
“I want to inspire those who are not blondes, whose skin is not white and those who do not wear make-up.” These are the words of Jeva Bayer Rhoden, the pride of the College of Arts and Sciences. Her high confidence builds up her desire to empower the women through the enhancement of self-esteem. She aspires to implement a seminar about the Filipino culture and invite speakers for motivational lectures. She as well stated, “I am not perfect, but I can still stand in front of the crowd.” As a straightforward person, she laughs and wishes to tell everyone that behind her “evil eyebrows” is an exceptional soft heart.
When Stella Lyn Amistad’s mom died, what helped her cope was the emotional support of the people around her. As the representative of the School of Law, Stella wants to make the Guidance Center visible to everyone and to remove the stigma on depression in order for people to seek for relief. Along with her cause, Stella practices playing her musical instruments and her accent impressions when she’s not studying law. Because she’s never felt confined in Silliman, she feels free to speak out against what is wrong. Will her strong will help her win the Crown?
Behind Genin Raya Amiscaray’s smile is a firecracker of positivity. With her “Heart for a Child” project, she aims to make children smile—by initiating feeding programs and talent showcases to rural communities. Her fighting spirit and her versatility will help her in the pageant and in the college she’s representing, the College of Business Administration. A true red Sillimanian and a constant representative of the university in international academic contests, it’s surprising that she’s a shy girl stepping out of her comfort zone. She’s trying to enjoy the ride, hoping most of all that her fighting spirit and faith in the Lord radiate who she is as a person.
If DaeNarah Garcia has something to attribute to her win, it would be her overflowing confidence. The pride of the College of Mass Communication promotes a mindset for change, striving to tap the media for self-empowerment. Whether it’s reading books, surfing the net, or spending quality time with her family, Dae trusts herself to handle every hurdle in her path, all thanks to her faith in God and herself. Whatever the challenge, “[she] has the face to kiss these problems away” and remain a bright, sunshine-y Dae.
Nothing is impossible for Anita Generosa Ygoña, the representative of the College of Education. Her strong will to lend a hand for those who can’t read and write is not only beneficial to street children but also to the adults who were deprived of school. As a future educator, she aspires to conduct teaching programs for the unlearned populaceless educated. It is one of her little ways to show that it is never too late to learn. Anita emulates humility, friendliness, and kindness. She loves to try new things and, as a welcoming person, she is open to new acquaintances.
Beyond Katrina Logarta’s hours at the Medical School, she paints. Through mural painting and art exhibits, she seeks to raise awareness of domestic violence. Miss Silliman, to Katrina, is an opportunity for her to act as a conduit for social change. She pushes for selfimprovement, which drives her every move because she said she owes it to herself and everything. Though she presses on for the future, it doesn’t mean she’s not happy with what she has at present. “Confidence comes from the faith that who you are is enough.”
People have always seen Lexandria Bliss dela Cerna as a boyish girl from the College of Engineering and Design. Some might take that against her, but she wants to prove that she can be someone who can thrive outside her comfort zone. Lex wouldn’t have joined if it weren’t for the support of her family and friends. She endeavors to widen the conversation on depression and social beauty standards. But to her, the pageant is not only a means to promote her advocacy. From her road trips to her travelling, she loves the thrill, and Miss Silliman is her grand adventure.
Inspired by her lola, Maria Christina Goodwin focuses on giving holistic care to the community elderly. She’s a woman with a big heart for the aged people and her main goal is to support. Hailing from the College of Nursing, she says her genuine love for her advocacy is what makes her unique, and having flaws won’t make her feel any less confident. A woman completely secure of herself, Christina’s witty, fierce, and she has a great sense of humor. She’s kind to the people she loves and when it comes to beauty, she said: “You don’t have to wear a crown to be beautiful.”
Some college students may call her “Ma’am,”, but Marya Inocencio wants to prove that the candidate from the Graduate Studies Program can join the undergrads in scholastic activities; much more win the crown. A part-time graduate teaching fellow and a seasoned ballet dancer, she advocates for enriching higher education and proves that passion drives it all. According to Marya, positive and negative experiences are all important in character development. To her, a Silliman woman does not conform, she is empowered; “[she] is not just a beauty queen.”
Ma. Patricia Angeli Montinola won’t give up in a storm. Whenever she’s caught up in the middle of an intense scenario, she reminds herself, “I believe I can.” As a woman representing the Institute of Rehabilitative Sciences, she seeks to be a role model to the Sillimanians. Through strengthening the youth’s involvement in sports, she believes it can help counteract the high possibility of youth’s addiction to drugs, smoking and alcohol. Her idea, which is to implement a sports meet, will hopefully keep the teenagers away from these inclinations.
Some people might think that Mary Frances Cablao is just an ordinary woman. When she’s not making her rounds as an intern from the Institute of Clinical and Laboratory Sciences, her waking hours are spent hanging out with her family and her dogs. But behind this front is a woman who cares deeply for the community. She advocates for the improvement of health in lowincome communities. With her project the “Slipper Initiative,” she aspiresslates to collaborate with the local government to educate the poor on health and to collect donations of slippers to less fortunate children. Will her experience lend to her coronation?
A powerhouse from the School of Public Affairs and Governance, Shamah Bulangis isn’t afraid to cross boundaries. She has worked with the local government and several advocates, specifically on micro-entrepreneurship for lowincome families, self-esteem workshops for high schoolers, and gender sensitivity for pre-school children. With Miss Silliman, she plans to further that and more. As a feminist, she pushes to redefine Silliman beauty and to celebrate what a woman is and could be. “I’m as every bit of a queen—capable of waging wars if need be!”
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Mr HIBALAG 2015 “Embodying Peaceful Co-existence Through Silliman Diversity”
By Nurlyn Elli and Christian Renz Torres “There is unity in diversity.” Back then, Mr. Hibalag was an activity set to make Sillimanians’ Founders celebration full of laughter. From mere entertainment, it turned into something essential—an advocacy-driven male pageant. Ten dedicated men in promoting peace through the power of diversity will be vying for this year’s title.
Kyle Vinci “Popo” Solano realized, through tempestuous life experiencs, that “failure is not a person; [it] is an event.” The Davao City native representing the Silliman Medical School Association pushes for universal good health. “Win or lose, I don’t care at all as long as I’m able to move people through my words and actions in my advocacy,” says Kyle. He strives to have his own family in the future and to live a peaceful life. Between being charming and handsome, Kyle would prefer the charm.His family, friends, and girlfriend support him in this journey because “dreams will have no substance if there’s no one to share [them] with.” Medical Technology Society representative Juri Nazareth Ochotorena advocates for universal education.He said that itbridges every individual—regardless of race, culture and values—to co-exist with each other.Juriloves to think about feelings and imaginations and dwells in his “interior guide.”This evocative man’spassion isoratorical speaking, whichmakes him well-experienced in public speaking. The aspiring neurosurgeon carries with him a persevering character in joining Mr. Hibalag far more relevant than the outward appearance.
Karl Angelo Cayetano wants to show that a kid from Manila can represent Silliman University. He wants to be true to his Filipino self; whether that’s studying in an international school for 10 years in China or representing the College of Education Student Organization in this pageant. As a God-centered individual, he loves to have fun with his worship team;music being one of the things that connects them. Sports are not only Karl’sforte but travelling as well, which ties nicely to his advocacy on exercising free will. In everything he does, Karl said that he believes that fear doesn’t have a room for anything. Shedding attention to little things such as littering and cursing would be a good start to discussing Romeo Victor Dilla’s advocacy on integrity. The Aggies Club representative said that people have forgotten their larger sense of society, which prompts him to set himself as an example for people to emulate. Victor joined Mr. Hibalag not for applause but to inspire others to step out of their comfort zone.This adrenaline junkie, longboarder and poet might be inexperienced with crowds, but Victor says his “baga’gnawong” will help him throughout this experience.
Beta Epsilon Fraternity has never joined Mr. Hibalagu ntil Scott Wayne Husain represented the organization this year— blame his go-getter personality.The acting governor of the College of Engineering and Design supports the move for homosexual sensitivity. The versatility of Scott—or “Kitkat” as what his kababayan from La Libertad calls him—enables himto easily adapt to various environments. Despite hisacademic involvements, he still sets time to perform as the guitarist of his band Willfreedo. His motivational quote—2+4=6, [but] so does 3+3—means thatthere will always be different solutions in solving mathematical, as muchas real life, problems.
Hailing from Sulu, Shahadat Samsurin of the Silliman Junior Business Executives pushes for peace-keeping. As a member of the Gabaan Youth Lead, he surprises with his tremendous experience dealing with different personalities amid his shy persona. He considers his optimism to be his strength. Because of his facilitating will, Shahadat devotes himself to travelling and organizing activities like IPRs and teambuilding. The pursuit to “keep moving forward” pushes him to try his hardest. Will his passionate heart and firm commitment to do what is right win him the crown?
“Depression: A Battle Within” sums up the advocacy of Martin Bryan Ganser from the Silliman Economics Society. If given the chance to win Mr. Hibalag 2015, Martin wants to help the people by having his advocacy fulfilled the way he envisions it. During his leisure time, he loves sleeping, writing poems, and studying. Nobody really knows the real Martin except a few of his friends; maybe because of his unpredictable personality. Could Mr. Mysterious’ determinationbe his ticket to winning the pageant?
Michael Al Ompod wants to start the move for self-image empowerment. For him, it’s one of the things that every individual deals with everyday thatgets neglected. Part of Mikey’s checklist ismaking Silliman University a better place through his advocacy.The candidate for the Kapunungansamga Mass Communicators can sing, rap, and play different kinds of instruments. Mr. Hibalag for Mikey is a venue for him not only to showcase these talents, but also to learn and experience what life has to offer. Though battling with stage fright, he keeps on reminding himself that he’s doing it for his mom, the person who fuels him to do things at his best.
Michael Wilfred Luigi Sanicas, representing the Western Visayas Circle, drives for awareness on racial discrimination. Some people may see his height as a disadvantage, but he would like to prove that being 5’1” doesn’t bar him from pursuing his passions. Aside from playing ukulele and skating, Michael also enjoys martial arts; holding a second dan(rank) Taekwondo black belt. Marine biology has always been a passion for Michael—always hanging at the beach— and ,he wants to work for Greenpeace as an environmentalist as far as his dream is implicated. For Michael, “Tricks deserve applause; style deserves respect.”
This year’s representative of KadugongBol-anon (KadBol) is fine arts sophomore John Franklin Gallares. He wants Silliman to be a peaceful environment, pouring out with respect for all individuals who come from different walks of life. Although joining Mr. Hibalag was not part of the plan, his curiosity encouraged him to be one of the candidates. One of John’s weaknesses is that he’s very conscious about himself. But this happy-go-lucky guy views things in life positively and reminds himself constantly to be faithful in God.
Only one of the ten contestants will have the strength, the brains, and the skill to outshine them all. Who will be Mr. Hibalag 2015?
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the weekly sillimanian 19 August 2015
HYPE IN HIBALAG. All right! Rock ‘n’ Roll to the world, ladies and gentlemen, as Silliman University’s highly acclaimed Annual Hibalag Booth Festival hits hard and fast starting August 19. Nothing says hype more than the line-up of bands that are ready to take over the stage with music and to literally ROCK YOUR WORLD.
Callalily The first band in our list is none other than Callalily. Their songs not only break both sales records and expectations, but they bring a certain edge that just can’t be found anywhere else.
6cyclemind With melodies such as “Kasalanan” and “Kung Wala na Nga,” they are the embodiment of chill, deep songs that will leave cycles in your head and make you want more.
Brownman Revival Ready for some reggae? Brownman revival will set center stage this Hibalag, Founded in 1994 and counting Bob Marley, Big Mountain and Aswad among their musical influences, their unique blend of “Pinoy-reggae” is a mix that is bound to hit you hard.
Rivermaya Rivermaya is one of the most influential rockbandsinthePhilippines.Formedin 1994,theyareoneoftheseveralbands who spearheaded the 90s Philippine alternative rock explosion. This critically acclaimed band brings out the inner LSS (Last Song Syndrome) in all of us. Rocksteddy It is a band that is a combination of Christian musicians from different walks of life. They also make songs for teleseryes and movies. Their classic songs will surely set the Hibalag stage on fire.
Hale Parokya ni Edgar A “ménage à trois plus one” of music Founded in 1993, this multi-award majors from different universities make winning band is famous for its original up Hale, a band that has been making rock novelty songs and satirical covers its footprints onto the Philippine Music of popular songs both, foreign and local. Industry since 2004. With their massively They are also the only band called as successful lineup of songs such as “The the “Pambansang Banda ng Pilipinas,” DayYouSaidGoodnight”and“KungWala they really do live up to their reputation. Ka,” this is one band you surely must not miss. Compiled by: Benhur Cemini via http://www.raindeocampo.com, http://imatzproduction.wordpress.com, http://astigmusics.wordpress.com, http://www.musixmatch.com, http://www.rivermaya.ph, http://www.lokalista.quickbb.net, http://www.entertainment.inquirer.net
Quiz bowl
roundup
Youth commission.. from page 1 Climate scientists found out that when global temperature rises to more than 2 °C, there will be worse global warming effects to Earth. Student leaders were willing to sign the petition during the forum. The signature campaign will be launched nationally in September. The campaign will also be petitioned directly to the leaders of the 2015 UN Climate Conference sometime in December in Paris, France.
NYC provides opportunities for the youth to be active in nationbuilding, through programs and projects that develop and harness their potentials, and enable them to serve the country and community. It was founded on June 30, 1995 through Republic Act 8044 or the Youth in Nation-Building Act. Its vision is to be the policy authority on youth participation and the prime mover in inclusive youth development.~
NegOr to.. from page 1 “[Negros Oriental’s] LGUs have initiative to protect the forest and water resources. Compared to other provinces, we have the strongest forest protection,” said Macias. Governor Roel Degamo noted some of the province’s main tourist attractions that are bodies of water, which are the Twin Lakes of Balinsasayao and Danao in Sibulan, Apo Island in Dauin, Casaroro
Falls in Valencia, White Sandbar in Manjuyod, Bais Bay in Bais City, which is the habitat of dolphins and sperm whale, among others. Degamo said that the responsibility to promote, conserve, and master the use of water as a needed resource can help ensure wider social, environmental, and economic sustainable development for Negros Oriental.~
Experts: ‘Water.. from page 1 the entrepreneurs, to the government officials and other relevant stakeholders— to contribute and empower this initiative to make the difference,” said Degamo. According to Dr. Rex Victor Cruz, a known watershed management expert, reforestation and watersheds have big impacts in nation building because water is the base for major sectors in Philippine society and economy. Although many places in the province have succeeded in water sustainability,there are still 455 municipalities in the country that do not have access to safe water. Jaime Antonio Jr., national coordinator
for Department of Interior and Local Government’s Joint Programme on Pro-“WATER” with the UN Development Programme, said that most of the areas in the municipalities still practice open defecation. “Sadly, it has become a way of life for the poor and the less privileged, people who don’t have the proper knowledge about water and proper sanitation practices,” said Antonio. Marlo Mendoza, a forester and a University of the Philippines professor, also said that a country’s native species are global assets.
“Endemic species that are here in the country—flora and fauna species that cannot be found nowhere in the world— are global assets. Once these species are gone,it’s not only Negros or the Philippines that loses these treasures; the entire world loses them too, forever,” said Mendoza. Since 2008, the IWRMC, a Negros Oriental policy advisory board, has started programs and projects on water sustainability and development of shared water, land, and related resources. It has also raised awareness to local communities on the importance of water.~
Other members are Scott Wayne Husain, Lindley Sialana, Jamie Kay Villegas, Shemdarwin Medez, Mark Martinez, Seth Gadiana, and Henrix Tubil, who came from different colleges in the university. Most of the members are also the members of WillFreedo, the band who won the Rock Against Youth Apathy (RAYA) competition last 2012. Socio-cultural Committee Head Fritz Figueras said that the committee decided to make an activity that would give Founders Week a trademark, as it is an event that alumni and students look forward to. “[The contest will also show that] Sillimanians can produce big-time theme song and jingles,” Figueras added. Supposedly open only for
organizations, Figueras said that they decided to open the contest to other students who are not under any organization because they expressed their interest in joining. For the submission of entries, the entries need to be originally made, with original written and arranged musical scores. It also needs to be recorded before the submission as the committee will not accept raw files. The deadline for the submission of entries was last Aug. 15. Sonia Sygaco, Juni Jay Tinambacan, and Kirk Philip Emperado were the judges. The chosen entry will be played during Hibalag’s opening night on Aug. 19. They will be awarded Php 5,000. SUSG’s Infomedia Committee co-organized the event.~
The stations around campus will have a horror-themed challenge that participants need to complete before moving to the next station. Participants need to run from one station to another in the race. “Muhatag mi og trivia [at every station] kanang kabahin og historical places nga muinvolveugmgaghostssaSilliman,”Arrietasaid. He added that participants will not only get physically fit,but also will become more aware of the historical horror stories in the campus. On safety issues, Arrieta clarifies that only the part from Oriental Hall and Hibalag booth area will be used. He added that there will be no challenge
that requires participants to cross streets. Arrieta said they ensure to keep the participants’ safety by making facilitators and first-aid teams more accessible. If any accidents happen, he said that there will be a first-aid team stationed near the Luce Auditorium. However, there will be no facilitator to accompany each team throughout the race so that teams can decide for themselves on where they will go. They are still coordinating with the Silliman University Rescue Team if they can place more first-aid stations.~
‘Hibalag’ entry wins theme song competition By Paulynne Joyce R. dela Cruz
VOLUNTEERISM. Director of Ugnayanan ng Pahinungod UP-Manila, Dr. Eric S.M. Talens, shares his perspective on the aspects of service during the Forum on Volunteerism last Aug. 17 at the AVT 1. PHOTO BY Lucille Raterta
FOR THE FIRST time, the Hibalag booth festival has a theme song after the best entry in the Silliman University Student Government’s (SUSG) Socio-Cultural Committee’s “Duyog,” a Hibalag theme song contest. Duyog is a Visayan term for music or music accompaniment. The contest aims to let students showcase their talents in song composition. The winner for the first Duyog competition is the entry entitled "Hibalag" by the Skeptron Society. The composers were Leo Francis Cabral and Rei Courtney Colina, both coming from the College of Performing and Visual Arts. Norris Wagas from the graduate studies is the lyricist and the interpreter.
Horror race to scare Sillimanians once again By Ray Chen Bahinting
ELECTION WEATHER. Jo Jan Paul Peñol, commissioner for Visayas NYC and Jose Sixto “Dingdong” Dantes III, NYC, commissioner-at-large, talk about voters’ education and climate action last Aug. 15 at Silliman Hall. PHOTO BY Leandro Credo
THE SPECIAL PROJECTS Committee of the Silliman University Student Government assures participants of a scarier and more fun Horror Race (HORRACE) Silliman Chapter Two on Aug. 20 as part of Founders Week. On its second year, Special Projects Committee Co-chairperson Andree Jay Arrieta said that HORRACE Silliman Chapter Two will have more “exciting challenges”for the 30 teams that will highlight Silliman University’s horror stories as they run around campus at night from 6 to 10 p.m.