The Flame Vol. 58 Issue No. 1

FLAME

THE

Vol. 58, Issue no. 1

THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UST FACULTY OF ARTS AND LETTERS

RESURGENCE

RECLAIMING LOSS AND RETURNING TO A NEW WORLD

THE

FLAME

FOUNDED OCTOBER 16, 1964 EDITORIAL STAFF 2022 - 2023 Dawn Danielle D. Solano Editor-in-chief Patrick V. Miguel Associate Editor Matthew Dave A. Jucom Managing Editor Dawn Danielle D. Solano Acting News Editor Bless Aubrey D. Ogerio Issues Editor Lila Victoria F. Mortel Features Editor Samantha Z. Argonza Culture Editor Fatima B. Baduria Literary Editor Rainiel Angelyn B. Figueroa Chief Photographer Tcheky Nicole D. Cabrera Art & Multimedia Director

Karen Renee S. Nogoy, Vanessa Noriko S. Yap, Katherine K. Chan, Aubrey Shane R. Lim, Prince Ronson D. Sabado News Writers Jasmine Mae T. Alarde, Axel Neo G. Aldana Issues Writers Katrizha Caye I. De Leon Feature Writer Thea Rebecca DC. Flores Culture Writer Abigail M. Adriatico, Czerizha Kaizel S. Adzuara, Trixcy Anne B. Loseriaga Literary Writers Arwin Nathaniel A. Romano, Aris Jhon C. Galang, Andrei Joseph Duran, Angeline M. Tanqueco, Catherine Dabu, Francine Gaebriele C. Gutierrez Photographers Francis Rafael D. Obenza, Jeanne Pauline G. Tecson, Anjellyca S. Villamayor, Julia Dominique T. Yancha Artists Thea Rebecca DC. Flores Administrative Officer Mr. Alexis B. Romero, M.A. Publications Adviser The Flame, the official student publication of the University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Arts and Letters, aims to promote a scholarly attitude among Artlets and Thomasians in the analysis of the implications of current relevant issues to their lives and society at large, to serve as a forum not only between Artlets and the administration but most importantly, among Artlets themselves, and to provide a vehicle for the publication of in-depth articles on the concerns and interests of the Faculty.

Nothing appearing in the Flame may be reprinted either in whole or in part without written permission addressed to the Editor in Chief of the Flame, G/F St. Raymund’s Bldg., University of Santo Tomas, Manila or to editorialboard@abtheflame.net.

Visit our official website: abtheflame.net © 2022 by the Flame. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Cover photo by

ETHAN CARDAÑO

spread photo by

RAINIEL ANGELYN FIGUEROA

T

Editor’s Note

o resurge is to come back again.

Humans, events, and rules have their way of responding to defeat with the promise of return. It is a show of who truly is in control.

In times of conflicts and unexpected setbacks, having some sense of control helps one to secure a comeback. Although, overcoming external forces is determined by the intensity of one’s control over them.

Through this issue, The Flame explored the nuances of resurgence and how these have given back the power to those who sought it.

For one, the University of Santo Tomas has finally opened its campus to Artlets.

With their return, they experience the burden of having to sustain living in dorms amid the current inflation in the country (pg.

20). Meanwhile, some find control in the way they present their sense of individuality through the return of 2000s fashion (pg. 34).

For some, however, control is a difficult thing to take hold of when chaos topples down security as seen in the stories of Overseas Filipino Workers who witnessed the fall of Ukraine to Russia (pg. 30).

Let the pages of this issue remind us that breakthroughs are always stronger than setbacks. The game of waiting has exceeded its stay, and the time calls for us to finally regain control. May we wield the strength of the Artlet spirit as we reclaim what we lost and return to the new world.

Dawn Danielle D. Solano Editor-in-chief '22 - '23

WHAT'S INSIDE?

PERSPECTIVES

Photo byplaytime RAYMOND Children’s stroll at MANALOTO Pinaglabanan Shrine, San Juan, pre-COVID. APhoto childby spent her day outside with her mother crafting woven baskets MARLOU JOSEPH BON-AO in Brgy. Telabastagan, San Fernando, Pampanga.

EDITORIAL

How many more excuses?

Art by FRANCIS RAFAEL D. OBENZA

D

uring the onset of the pandemic two years ago, students rallied on social media using the hashtags #NoToOnlineClasses and #NoStudentsLeftBehind.

However, the spread of COVID-19 left schools with no choice but to shift to distance learning and to hold online classes. No thanks to the country’s unreliable internet services and the economic impact of the virus, some students were left behind.

After two years, the Philippines’ education sector finally embraced what the government called “the new normal.” Last November, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED)

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issued a memorandum prohibiting full distance learning without its permission.

Higher education institutions are expected to implement either full onsite or hybrid learning modality in the upcoming semester. They are required to conduct face-to-face classes at least half of the class hours, in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s stance that COVID-19 should no longer be treated as an emergency.

Although this development has drawn hurrahs, it also sparked fears and hesitations since the pandemic is not yet over. UST administrations have been cautious about resuming in-person classes, opting to do it gradually in accordance with their transition plans. While they have good intentions, some students cannot help but compare UST’s response with that of other institutions that are now allowing limited face-to-face classes in all degree programs and year levels.

about complying with the CHED memorandum should consider the harmful effects of prolonged distance learning.

Experts have noted the negative psychological and social effects of online classes on students who are worrying more but learning less. Any attempt to avoid or circumvent the CHED memorandum requiring at least half of class hours to be conducted onsite will result in an epidemic that changes the meaning of EVM to “excessive virtual mode.”

And they really cannot be blamed if they think that they are being left behind. Most of them are forced to hold classes in Such an epidemic – characterized by longer exposure to front of computers or mobile phone screens while many of gadgets, stunted social skills and depleted mechanisms against their counterparts in other schools are transitioning back to academic dishonesty – is ironically fueled by an overly cautious normal. mindset and a distorted sense of priorities.

They have to fix technical glitches, look for areas with good signal and pray that no power outages will happen in their area instead of focusing on the very thing they are supposed to do: To absorb the lectures that are supposed to prepare them for the future.

The present set-up—wherein half of the classes attend synchronous and asynchronous classes simultaneously—is burdensome for both the students and professors. For one, lectures good for three hours are condensed into an hour and a half, sacrificing the quality of instruction. Likewise, professors deliver the same lesson twice every session, effectively forcing But some UST administrators are still wary of such a them to conduct cramped lectures without additional pay. transition. Some of them, for instance, claimed that a return to onsite learning may be difficult due to the threats of evolving The University should have a better grasp of the COVID COVID-19 variants. Some cited the plight of students coming situation given that it has already held various mass gatherings from other countries or from the provinces who will need to like onsite graduation rites, baccalaureate mass, welcome stay in dormitories just to attend face-to-face classes. They ceremonies, and the recently concluded Agape. It has also argued that a return to onsite learning could be burdensome announced that this year’s Paskuhan would be done in person for some students considering the economic shocks and the although the event would only be limited to members of the worsening inflation the country is experiencing.

Thomasian community to avoid overcrowding.

It is prudent to give these administrators the benefit of the doubt. We believe that they are genuinely concerned about their students. We are sure that their concerns are born out of their desire to keep Thomasians safe, not from a refusal to adjust some routines acquired during the pandemic or to wake up early to go to the campus. We have faith in our administrators and we sincerely believe they won’t allow Thomasians to miss out on the advantages of in-person learning because of challenges that have been there way before we learned about the existence of a “mysterious” virus from Wuhan.

Indeed, there are risks in resuming face-to-face classes given that we are not yet free from COVID-19. But there is no other way to handle this crisis but to adapt. Citing risks and challenges that have always been there or sticking to plans that may no longer be responsive to students’ needs is definitely not the way to do it.

Other educational institutions—including elementary and secondary schools—have resumed onsite learning for most of their students. After the two-year disruption, UST administrators should have thought of better ways to ensure the After all, heavy traffic, rising costs of living, street crimes, safe return of students to campus—unless they intentionally the hassle of daily commuting and health risks will always do not want to. be there, pandemic or no pandemic. Citing these campus life staples to oppose or to delay the resumption of onsite learning But then again, we don’t think our administrators will deprive is at best amusing. We also hope the transition mechanisms their students of a chance to reap the benefits of onsite learning. announced earlier by administrators won’t get in the way of We don’t think our administrators will be overprotective to the face-to-face learning. Quality should take precedence over any point that Thomasians will be exposed to the EVM epidemic. form of bureaucracy. Methods that work should be prioritized We don’t think our administrators will prioritize their over any paperwork. transition documents over the plight of students.

UST’s enhanced virtual mode (EVM) may have been enough for the time being but our administrators who have hesitation

We hope we are right. F

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Braving Equilibria Samantha Z. Argonza

Paper Mirrors Fatima B. Baduria

Education in isolation

We are woman beings

ACROSS THE tides of survival in the northernmost stretch of the Philippines is an island province that only had its first LTE connection in 2018. Adjusting throughout the pandemic has become a challenge in a process of reassessment.

In-person classes are resuming gradually, yet it took me two years in the pandemic to process the risks, which also continuously reminded me of my home’s constant struggle with access to resources.

Spending about ten days in Batanes last August 2022, I still encounter the internet disconnections of our plugged home wifi more than twice daily. My friend, who is also in the Faculty of Arts and Letters (AB) and is currently in Batanes, has revealed that in every five minutes of attending online meetings, unstable internet connection often kicks in.

After typhoon “Henry” hit the isles, instead of using her laptop, she attended class through her mobile phone. This also brought difficulties in watching online video lectures.

Moreover, for almost two weeks, there was a power curtailment advisory all over the province. It reduced the power operations by one-third, bringing a daily 16-hour brownout last September 4-14 in the six municipalities. During the power outage, she explained that in complying with her tasks for internship, she had to borrow two more laptops.

Unstable internet including rotational brownouts are not news in this province especially in the aftermath of typhoons. Also, there is the delayed transport of goods, even the diesel fuel tanker for electricity postponed due to large tidal waves preventing sea vessels from docking.

Beyond being tagged as a reference point in Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration, the geographical location of Batanes is historically tied with typhoons. The reboot of cell towers, electricity power lines, and internet or data connection is already structured in post-disaster management plans.

Going back to the first few months of 2020, flights from Manila to Basco (capital of Batanes) and vice versa were limited to twice per month with just one airline operating for this island province. This is also due to mobility restrictions, allowing only returning residents and authorized persons outside residence to book their flights to Batanes. Once a flight is canceled, the passengers will have to wait for at least a month to move or rebook flights.

It was already more than a year of not returning home along with uncertainties in the access to flights. I was unsure back then if the quality of my learning was enough, because I felt imprisoned by mental distress. Lack of concentration and discipline are among my concerns with distant learning.

The lockdowns in Manila had prompted me with “quiet quitting,” a term conversed upon in social media these days as a work principle or philosophy. This pertains to working within one’s limits and without going beyond work hours. Also, according to my friend from AB, she was not able to leave Batanes since October 2020 as she has to prioritize her mental health along with her thesis course requirement.

Balancing productivity with health is a major investment in resources. This significantly went on until 2021. Going back home after the first term is among the opportunities to unpack the emotions held back from the quarantine. This chance was not just to unwind at all, it is still about meeting halfway with the setbacks. I had to submit my requirements a day before the deadline at around four in the morning. Learning materials must also be downloaded before six a.m. since the internet connection slows down after that hour. At times, the camera during Zoom meetings must be turned off to stay in the session.

My friend also shared that there is a professor who failed to acknowledge the attendance of students who did not open their cameras. There were instances that some students intentionally do not open their cameras, so those in the actual situation of unstable internet connection are not given consideration. To address this concern, there must have been an established system of verifying the conditions of the students, especially those who are living in technologically-challenged areas.

Moving forward to the first quarter of 2022, four flights are expected each month in the province. It then turned to regular flights that placed hesitancy in buying tickets because of the increase in base fare caused by soaring fuel prices. The transportation around the metro is not an exemption.

For years, the concept of isolation has evolved. It has tied feelings to a place. To create the distance between home and inaccessibility, between quality education and online distractions, and between relationships and communication barriers, it is a constant readjustment.

More possibilities for face-to-face engagements are just around the borders. Students are then again sailing for another season of adjustments. F

GOING BACK to normal after a stretched time indoors should be exciting, but “normal” has always been different for us women.

It does not always mean “okay.” Merriam-Webster would characterize normal as “usual, typical, or routine.” It is expected, something adhering to a pattern. And the pattern is this: when women go out on their own, fear creeps in. A lot of times, the feeling becomes a premonition.

There had been a pause to the transgressions that the streets constantly witnessed, mostly because they became empty. As most were restricted to their homes, it became safer, at least on the streets.

However, as we gradually come closer to the kind of life we knew before the pandemic, the issue resurfaces.

This story goes on repetitively in a seemingly endless plot, still without a denouement.

We feel the eyes first. We have been told many times to never make eye contact with strangers. Even so, our peripheral vision catches what our center of gaze cannot.

We feel next the red blooming on our cheeks, the unease and vexation bubbling together into a complex flush. Flattery would be a nice feeling— almost like a privilege that dread has made impossible because of what usually happens after.

We hear. It is an unwelcome greeting at times. Other times it is names that we are deplorably given, “babe” or "ganda." Some men are more creative at being discreet by whistling. Regardless of manner, they are all the same. It is street harassment.

The perpetrators are fully capable of defending themselves. They minimize their crime as simple flirting or giving of compliments. Totally harmless.

However, it is unsolicited; no one can take such things as compliments.

The unwelcome is always a disturbance. It trespasses, barging into a sacred, personal bubble supposedly consisting of some degree of peace.

It is uncomfortable and terrifying. No feelings are negative, and indeed, these two are normal experiences for everyone. Yet for women, these have grown from feelings to a shared reality that we have to live with daily, and we should not have to.

It is a derogation, even dehumanizing. What it does is take our bodies for objects of pleasure. Our faces, limbs, and skin are taken apart by their gazes to be examined until, to them, we are no longer humans—not their equals. Their minds mistake us for breathing, life-sized dolls and we are treated as such.

So it is fallacious to think that catcalling merely inconveniences women, that it terrifies us only for a bearable span of time before we come out unscathed.

The “normalcy” of street harassment has long been dictating how women must live, that we must have a man on our side or save enough of our allowance for the luxury of a taxi ride. We are supposed to tweak our lives, the victims. It speaks, too, of a message that we have long been told: the world is not for a woman. It is not a place for us to be comfortable nor to simply live in. Yet we refuse to accept this message.

It should not take a pandemic to ensure safety on the streets, to tame the barbarity. What it should take is realization, understanding of the depths that the issue pervades and awareness enough for perpetrators to stop.

There is a long way to go before we even come close to the possibility of harassment-free streets. Still, we women dream with and for the little ones who are already exposed to the same atrocities.

We dream of an afternoon walk in solitude, enjoying the orange sunset glow after a long, tiring day at school or work. A man or two would pass by, but they mind their own business. We reach home, bearing no wounds from the short walk.

We dream of a proper denouement for street harassment. F

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We, the others

Ganda Problems

Patrick V. Miguel

Lila Victoria F. Mortel

How far will #hashtags go?

WE LIKE the idea that we are contributing to the betterment of society. And when you are stuck at home during a pandemic, the best place to do this is in the expansive digital architecture of social media. A landscape that has become a dump of cancel culture, trolls, performativity, micro-trends, and endless brain-rot ‘hot takes’ that gave me lobotomy.

I say this with pure sincerity: “Welcome to the 2020s.” #NoToOnlineClasses, #BlackLivesMatter, #JunkAntiTerrorLaw, #MassTestingNOW, #SaveTheTurtles, #JusticeFor[Someone]—these hashtags, among others, have resurfaced and resurged within apps we have scrolled on. And in a social media culture where you are alienated for being ‘silent’ and hastily labeled as ‘apolitical,’ you feel obligated to post and show that you have spoken through hashtags.

I am not an exception to this narrative as I am guilty of believing the hashtags I posted before were powerful enough to stop specific sociocultural catastrophes.

Trick Mirror author Jia Tolentino wrote, “It’s because of the hashtag, the retweet, and the profile that solidarity on the internet gets inextricably tangled up with visibility, identity, and self-promotion.

It’s telling that the most mainstream gestures of solidarity are pure representation […] and meanwhile the actual mechanisms through which political solidarity is enacted, like strikes and boycotts, still exist on the fringe. The extremes of performative solidarity are all transparently embarrassing….”

This is where the problem of hashtag ‘activism’ lies. Other than the fact that it is allusive to performativity, people think that posting a social issue alongside the appropriate hashtag will be the end of a struggle and that doing so entails a form of solidarity. What do our nation leaders care about hashtags anyway? The truth is that these social issues are evasive to hashtags, and it would never be the finality of a certain struggle as it should only be the beginning of something.

So, how far will hashtags go?

Hashtags could raise awareness on so many adversities. In addition, it has the potential to mount a collective movement that could spark change. Take for example the hashtags that boosted donation drives during Typhoon Ulysses in November 2020.

In a way, hashtags could mobilize and present solidarity. There are instances where hashtags worked but it comes rarely since nobody is genuine anymore on the internet.

But ultimately, hashtags oftentimes remain as hashtags in the digital sphere. Unfortunately, what we may be “advocating” online is less likely to materialize in the “real world.” We have posted so many hashtags and yet so little has been done. It may have only brought out awareness in this epoch of “content” but it seemed to have stopped there. We keep scrolling on our phones until we realize that we scrolled on a whole circle, and what we have “spoken out” will keep resurging in the future with different structures of hashtags.

In the end, the blaming finger should be pointed to certain institutions for never listening to our call for justice.

Here is a testament to the parallels of social media and social issues, where “social” finds a commonality in all adversities but it eludes itself away from mobility and change. The question is raised—how far will our hashtags go? It will remain here and here only in the theatricals of social media. F

The Imedificiation of Filipina women BEFORE OLIVIA Rodrigo and Heart Evangelista, we had Imelda Marcos. As a dictator’s wife and a beauty in her own right, she shocked the international community with her shoes, personality, and most, unfortunately, indiscretions.

With news features of her ostentatious lifestyle came criticism from all forms, some in the form of ridicule such as modern iterations like Netflix’s The Crown to lesser-known skits from SNL and On the Television’s “Our Maid Imelda” episode.

The portrayal of Imelda Marcos in this medium was flat-out racist. It was not right she was portrayed as a maid to be ridiculed, a hysterical woman, or a socialite with a ‘funny’ accent.

There are Filipina women who are not Imelda that may be subjected to this ridicule, and at the end of the day, Imelda remains a socialite while everyday Filipinas carry that stereotype with them.

On a personal note, I experienced this stereotyping in New Zealand; it was as subtle as being called “exotic” for my accent to my white ex-partner being ‘warned’ against me as a foreigner with no permanent residency, by fellow Filipinos no less. Although I don’t blame media representation it definitely didn’t help.

With the ever-rising liberalization of the world comes the observation of our culture and, in extension, our women. When we portray Filipinas like the international media portrayed Imelda, we are causing harm not to Imelda but to everyday Filipinas.

Even today, Filipinas are not being given the consideration they should have in the media, ultimately causing harm and welcoming misogyny.

“90-Day Fiancee,” a TLC TV Show, has profited from Filipinas experiencing racist microaggressions and the stereotype of submissive Asian wives, even if they don’t mean so.

Jenny, a filipina living in the province of Urdaneta was filmed upset with how her white partner responded to lechon being served for his welcome, Her partner embarrassed her family by being afraid of getting sick through our food. Because of her accent, she pronounced “rude” as road. The first who laughed was us.

There is nothing wrong with these women nor even the show inherently, but there is something disgusting about how media companies turn their lived experiences into entertainment without considering the power dynamics of gender and race. But to be fair, this also raises the question: who is wrong, the media that presented Jenny or us the audience who reacted as we did?

A number of Fil-Am movies also punch down on Filipinas. The fabulous Filipino Brothers portrayed Filipinas horrendously; they were either sexualized, dead, or narrators; no nuance, joy, or celebration. Although to be fair, Easter Sunday more recently did better.

These are filmmakers raised by Filipina communities but rely on their ridicule to make money. Locally, telenovelas aren’t any better.

This ‘Imeldafication’, or the lousy faith representation of Filipina women to criticize culture, is rooted in racism and misogyny, hurting individuals that are most vulnerable.

More than half or 59.6% of overseas workers are women, and more than half of them work as laborers and unskilled workers. These portrayals and lack of nuances do not help.

This is a call to be more critical of not just how we see Filipinas, but how we watch them. How we criticize matters. We must ask ourselves; do we laugh because it’s Imelda or do we laugh because it's Filipina? Is she even a laughing matter?

Lots of media content answer this question, such as Lauren Greenfield‘s “The Kingmaker” and PBS’ episode of Imelda. The politics and the urgency of criticizing her properly are palpable.

In a time when critique is essential, we must remember to act in good faith and inclusion. This applies to people we don’t agree with.

To say the least, I don’t like Imelda Marcos, but I also don’t like seeing misogyny through her. F

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Stretches Bless Aubrey Ogerio

leisure activity in the midst of my busy schedule, which somehow helps me avoid wasting my savings.

From the point of view of a journalism student, news stories about fluctuating fuel prices have been added to the list of topics that interest me.

I WAS 19 when I fulfilled my long-time dream of Unfortunately, this new interest has become my legally driving a car and obtaining my license. series of relief and dismay as a consumer as well.

Speed Therapy

It was the typical midnight drives and fun road trips, getting the most out of my freedom. But as I drive along the journey of growing up, hitting 405 becomes less fun and more of a responsibility, especially when I am about to experience another unpleasant surprise at the local gas station.

Even those who do not have an idea how to pump the clutch or change gears are also affected by this issue. It is surprising to pay extra for transportation due to the rate increase. When we purchase things and goods online, it is frustrating when the delivery charges are expensive.

Getting from one place to another would be a hassle if it were not for my motorcycle and fourwheeled APV car. Be it an important school event or a spontaneous hang-out, the privilege of this comfort has kept me away from Metro Manila's traffic congestion.

With all of these produced, used, and delivered using fuel, the hassle of everyday life will show us why we should care even without having any desire to drive. Really, the world's demand for oil is rising, and not just simply because of some people’s odd fantasy for fast cars.

Until the slow traffic started to roll, followed by Gas prices have fluctuated for years, and the the constant checking of the gas tank, and finally Philippine economy and many ordinary Filipinos getting frustrated when the tank reached from suffer whenever they hit a new high. Instead of close to being empty—which happens frequently. constantly subsidizing the transportation industry, the government might instead authorize a fair It was a headache for me when the average retail fee increase and stop depending on gas station price of one-liter gas had already amounted to discounts. about P80 compared to last year, when it was just approximately P50. Despite the recent rollbacks, Every component of the fuel value chain that it is still not much of a help to my tight budget affects fuel pricing must be extensively examined, as a struggling college girl who chose to live and alternatives must be explored if any component independently but needs to still practice being is found to be costly. There must be a reason for practical. every peso paid.

I need to change my driving habits, which I once As the gas prices are out of my control and seem found therapeutic but is now causing me stress. to be telling me that it is impractical to rely on driving as a comfort, hitting the speed is not always During the peak of the Russia-Ukraine war, which therapeutic, especially in this economy where the affected the gas prices in the country this year, I “control” depends upon the reluctance of higherrelied on public transportation: jeep, train, and ups to listen to drivers' and commuters' pleas. F bus. I once again encountered a crowded space.

This kind of transportation system gave me yet another terrible experience, but who am I to whine when other commuters are more exhausted and have longer travel time than me?

When it’s really hard to find a ride, I would sometimes think of riding a taxi, but it would take me a minute to decide since it does not really fit my budget and mode of transportation. I only ride taxis occasionally, often carpooling with strangers to save money.

I also began to prefer staying at home instead of going out, especially if it is not urgent or just a

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NEWS

Photo by ETHAN CARDAÑO An Artlet walks on the mirrored sidewalk of the UST St. Raymund’s building.

A bittersweet farewell:

Thomasians return to UST to say goodbye Words by PATRICK V. MIGUEL & DAWN DANIELLE SOLANO Photo by RAINIEL ANGELYN FIGUEROA

F

or the first time in what felt like forever, the decided not to hold the fireworks display as an expression University felt the atmosphere everyone was of solidarity with those who were affected by the familiar with during its back-to-back Baccalaureate COVID-19 pandemic.

Mass for the graduates of batch 2020, 2021, and 2022.

Graduating students were more than happy to be back, From June 3 to 4, the University was brought back to life, reuniting finally not only with their classmates but also revived by the presence of the Thomasian community— with the University. students, professors, and staff. The hallways that have been silent since the University adopted the virtual This was the case for journalism batch 2021 Loreta learning mode reverberated with laughter and greetings. Arroyo, who admitted feeling “deprived” when the Classrooms were once again filled with students. Students previous graduation ceremony was done online. were seen embracing again, propagating the culture of hugs that was discouraged two years ago. Drumbeats “It feels nice […] Like it’s a one time that brings us and chants filled the air, reminding Thomasians that no back in time. We are reclaiming all the times that were pandemic can extinguish their school pride and spirit. taken away from us and for one evening, it’s just us as one block, [and] as one AB,” Arroyo told The Flame during The University resumed its graduation traditions such the second day of the baccalaureate mass. as the exit through the iconic Arch of the Centuries, a celebration of the Holy Mass on the open field, and Behavioral science batch 2020 graduate John Raymund the ceremony of lights. The administration, however, Alayon said the in-person event was the “most memorable.”

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“We waited for almost two years and of course, we get nakagraduate nga ako, pandemya pa ‘non (I can do it. I the chance to experience a solemn celebration,” he said. was able to graduate and there was a pandemic then),” the The return to the University was not only celebrated by vice chancellor said. the students but by the AB maintenance staff as well.

A bittersweet moment

Maintenance staff James Malagueño and Albert WATCH: AB seniors complete their Artlet journey as Chavez expressed their excitement, saying “Parang kami they exit through the Arch na rin ‘yung g-graduate (It feels like we are the ones graduating).”

Exiting the Arch of the Centuries is a long-time university tradition that has been cultivated throughout the years They added that the return of students to the campus but suddenly took a pause because of the online set-up allowed them to go back to a regular work schedule. The these past two years. maintenance staff worked under a “no work, no pay” policy throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, according For Bea Diwa, a communication graduate in 2020, to staff Maricar Yabut. passing through the arch was “fulfilling,” after two years of waiting. She added, “I can finally say that my journey READ: Our Ate and Kuya in AB: Where are they now? in UST has finally come to an end. It’s a bit bittersweet.”

‘You are all survivors’

The bittersweet feeling of exiting is echoed by recent University Rector Rev. Fr. Richard Ang, O.P behavioral science graduate Eldrick Conwi, who said commended Thomasians for finishing their studies he performed the tradition with all the experience and despite the torments of the pandemic as he led the first- friendships he made in college. ever in-person Baccalaureate Mass since the pandemic.

Political science batch 2021 graduate Dax Dacanay said “You are all survivors. If you survived the pandemic, exiting the arch made him revisit all the good and bad you can survive anything at all,” Ang told graduating memories in the University. He felt as if every memory students of Batch 2022 during the first day of the rushed into him while walking on the so-called lover’s lane and through the Arch.

Baccalaureate Mass.

Ang even encouraged the students to celebrate their It was a “euphoric” moment,,according to polticial science batch 2021 graduate Johannah Ferrer: “It dawned milestone, and not to think of it as a “sin.” on me that I’m really leaving UST.” “Today is not a sin for you to be proud of yourself as long as you remain humble and magnanimous regardless of Thomasians avoid premature passing-through the Arch what you already know. As wisdom comes as you age,” as doing so is believed to lead to their debarment. The University Rector was quick to debunk the urban legend. the University rector said.

“When I was a student of the Faculty of Arts and Letters, UST Vice-Chancellor Rev. Fr. Filemon Dela Cruz Jr., my classmates and I would pass through that frequently,” O.P also conveyed a similar message to batches of 2020 said Ang, who graduated from the Faculty of Arts and and 2021, encouraging them to mark their milestone Letters in 1990 with a philosophy degree. through “pictures.”

The rector was ordained to priesthood in 1998, after he finished sacred theology at the Faculty of Sacred Theology “Magpa-picture kayo nang husto (Take a lot of photos), Because this is a part of your memory making, that you in 1997. have survived this pandemic and you graduated,” dela “Later on, once you pass the Arch of the Centuries, walk Cruz said. on and carry your faith with you. The faith, which is the However, Dela Cruz reminded the graduates that there University’s greatest legacy,” Ang said. would be more battles and challenges to face in life.

The two-day Baccalaureate Masses for the three batches “It is a long way for you, for us, for our country, [and] were held at the UST Grandstand and Athletic Field. other countries toward recovery,” Dela Cruz said.

Face-to-face graduation rites for all academic units of The vice chancellor said hardships during the pandemic the batch 2022 have been scheduled from June 6 to 30. can be a great source of strength and inspiration in the F — with a report from Aubrey Shane Lim future.

“When life gets tough, you can say ‘Kaya ko ‘to, @abtheflame | abtheflame.net

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Dos and Don’ts for Paskuhan 2022 Photo by GAEBRIELE GUTTIEREZ

A

fter two years of virtual celebrations, the The Paskuhan Mass will be held on Dec. 16 at 5 p.m. at University of Santo Tomas will finally hold its the UST Santissimo Rosario Parish. All donations from Paskuhan festivities, from liturgies to concerts, mass attendees will go to Dominican missions in different areas of the Philippines. in person.

As part of the preparations, University officials held a The Paskuhan festivities will be held on Dec. 19, beginning virtual session last Nov. 11 to discuss the protocols for with a raffle at 10 a.m., followed by the Paskuhan Concert at 4 p.m. the much-anticipated event.

The Flame listed the things Thomasians need to know to Wear your face masks enjoy the festivities.

UST Health Service Director Dr. Sheryl M. Dionisio emphasized the need for all attendees to wear face masks, as many people are expected to join the festivities.

Dos:

Mark your calendars

“We will be requiring everyone to wear a face mask as Thomasians can look forward to experiencing the Agape part of the minimum public health standard to ensure and Paskuhan concert festivities to be held on Dec. 2 and public health and safety,” she said.

19, respectively.

Attending alumni must use the StaySafe.ph application in place of the Thomasian Online Medical Services and Tunog Tomasino, the university-wide battle of the Support or ThOMedSS health declaration checklist. bands, is set to take place on Dec. 5.

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“They have to accomplish the health declaration checklist Besides checkpoint access, the ID and QR code will also on the day of the event so that they will be presenting serve as a food stub during Agape. the QR code that will be provided by the StaySafe.ph app upon entry,” Dionisio said.

Don’t be late The University’s security office will implement measures Dress appropriately to cut the long lines outside the campus.

Thomasians are advised to dress modestly for the festivities, which is not just about merry-making but is Joseph Badinas, detachment commander of the UST also about the birth of Christ and the heroism of pandemic Safety and Security Office, said the campus would be frontliners. opening early for attendees to have a leeway to get in.

“Of course our students are encouraged to come to Badinas also encouraged the use of transparent bags to the university in their modest and decent attire because reduce the time for bag inspections. they’re not attending a private party but a university event,” Batulan said.

“We discourage using big bags during inspection to avoid delays and long entrance lines. Instead, we encourage everyone to use transparent bags to ease the inspection process,” Badinas said.

Don’ts:

Don’t invite non-Thomasians

Thomasians are also prohibited from bringing sharp and This year’s Paskuhan festivities will only be open to pointed objects.

Thomasian students, employees and alumni in compliance with COVID-19 health protocols. However, university Don’t bring your car administrators are hopeful that non-Thomasians will be To ensure traffic regulation, Facilities Management allowed to join the event in the future.

Office engineer Jared Gunting said the University would implement “carless days” on Dec. 2 and 19.

But Thomasians need not despair because they can always hold after parties with their friends from other “We encourage everyone to not bring their car because schools provided they observe safety measures. we’ll be expecting traffic and there will be a lot of people

Don’t forget your IDs and QR codes

during that day,” he said.

The University will implement a strict ‘no ID, no QR However, the car park will remain open on a ‘first come, code, no entry’ policy for all Paskuhan 2022 events. first served’ basis.

Thomasians are required to accomplish their ThOMedSS Gates 1, 2, 6, 7, 10, 11, and 14 will be available for health declaration checklist to enter the campus. pedestrians on Dec. 2, while gates 1, 2, 7, 10, 11, 14, and the public link bridge will be open on Dec. 19.

Alumni and students without ID must secure a digital or printed copy of their QR codes from the MyUSTe student Attendees with motor vehicles may enter through gate 14 or alumni portal before entering the campus. on both dates.

“They (alumni) get to generate a code similar to the The Office of the Secretary-General is expected to ones being generated for the students. […] It has to be release a memorandum detailing all the University’s presented for scanning and that’s already approved as recommendations and policies relevant to the festivities. an alternate identification,” said Emmanuel Batulan, F — Katherine Chan and Aubrey Shane Lim executive assistant to the Office of the Secretary-General.

@abtheflame | abtheflame.net

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Artlets walk on the side of St. Raymund’s building.

Photo by RAYMOND MANALOTO

ISSUES

Photo by ETHAN CARDAÑO Despite heavy rainfall from Typhoon Florita, Artlets attended their Homecoming Walk activities.

Schools urged to be vigilant despite KWF’s lifting of ban on ‘subversive’ books Art by TCHEKY NICOLE D. CABRERA

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hile Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF) Despite the revocation of the order, some educators recently reversed its controversial order to and students are worried about how the attempt to ban five books that were regarded as “anti- ban books could negatively influence literature and government,” Thomasian educators called on schools academic freedom, to ensure the free flow of ideas and to uphold free UST Department of Political Science Asst. Prof. expression.

Anthony Divinagracia said that while freedom is The books covered by the ban imposed last August “not obsolete” and the education system may “not be were Teatro Politikal Dos by Malou Jacob; Kalatas: Mga perfect,” banning books because of their supposed Kuwentong Bayan at Kuwentong Buhay by Rommel “anti-government content” would not contribute to Rodriguez; Tawid-diwa sa Pananagisas ni Bienvenido fostering inclusive learning.

Lumbera: Ang Bayan, ang Manunulat, at ang Magasing Sagisag sa Imahinatibong Yugto ng Batas Militar 1975- “Censorship is not bad per se; you just have to put it in 1975 by Dexter Cayanes; May Hadlang ang Umaga place. Apparently, these commissioners are doing the

by Don Pagusara; and Labas: Mga Palabas sa Labas ng bad side of censorship,” Divinagracia said.

Sentro by Reuel Aguila.

UST Department of Literature Assoc. Prof. Jeanette KWF commissioners Alain Russ Dimzon, Angela Grajo said KWF’s order might set a “wrong precedence” Lorenzana and Hope Yu withdrew their signatures for future writers. from the order last September, noting that it’s not within the body’s mandate to function as a censorship “This controversial issue of censorship and allegedly red-tagging of authors by the KWF leadership is body

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sending a negative signal and might also set the want a redacted history?” Divinagracia said. wrong precedence for future generations of writers,” Grajo said.

Grajo said the ban was “incomprehensible” and “absurd” given that all books underwent extensive Some tertiary students believe the revoked KWF screening and review before being granted with memorandum contradicted the objectives of reading funds for publication. scholarly works and promoting and developing analytical and critical thinking skills.

“Demanding for the ‘non-distribution’ of a book that has gone through the screening process and has been previously approved and funded for printing is Communication senior Hannah Baquiran.said a incomprehensible and absurd, and therefore needs book ban would deprive future generations of the an explanation,” Grajo said. “capacity to learn and to discern.”

She added that declaring the truth on social issues Political science student Jan Soriano said the through literary texts does not imply a “direct purpose of the five books is not to foster an anti- invitation to rebellion.” government stance, but “to help formulate the Minding the context reader's own individual stance.”

Grajo noted that readers nowadays are not just Journalism junior Yllonah Bago said she was "passive receivers” of information but also “active worried about the possibility of authorities “pushing participants in the reading process” who can interpret a text in numerous ways. the truth away from the Filipinos.” “[A]s seen from these bold moves to protect “In reading a literary text, we need to explore themselves (KWF commissioners), the people its figurative interpretation more than its literal seated in power know the lack of awareness from the meaning. The readers' response to a certain literary masses, and they are benefiting from that,” she said. text may bear different interpretations, depending on his ‘sitz im leben,’ or from what perspective he or she stands.”.

Questioning the rationale

Mark Anthony Angeles, a lecturer at the UST But she also acknowledged that since interpretations Filipino department, said that the ban should not are subjective, readers are in danger of taking a have happened in the first place since KWF is "not certain text out of context. even mandated to enforce anti-leftist propaganda.”

“Misreading the writer's intention is frustrating “As far as I know, banning the books was not a on the part of the authors,” Grajo said. “This is decision made by everyone in the board (KWF), but the reason why the students need to learn how to an attempt to stir the pot against the KWF chair,” analyze and critique a book through the guidance of Angeles told The Flame. their professors and their elders,” Grajo added.

Divinagracia expressed doubts about the order’s Meanwhile, Divinagracia asserted that not everyone logic and asked why some works that mentioned who reads about communism would want to be activism, including those of the lateFilipino associated with any insurgency group promoting historian Teodoro Agoncillo, were not included in this idealism. the list.

He urged the academe and other institutions to “When you read those, it included references and always guard against “arbitrary orders that seek to citations of Joma Sison of the CPP (Communist Party curtail free expression and academic freedom.” of the Philippines). So are you going to say that those books are also subversive? What are we going to do, “If we are to guard against ignorance, timidity, and should we tear them?” Divinagracia said. docility, educators must ensure to contextualize and or [contemporize] the content of these progressive For him, citing “communism” as a basis to ban books instead of using them to misguide or books is an act of “historical denialism” and would misrepresent an idea, or weaponize it against a create a “gap” in history. particular group or individual that advocates a view contrary to that of the establishment,” Divinagracia “Whether we like it or not, that (CPP-New People’s said. F – Jasmine Mae Alarde with reports from Army) is part of our history. What will we do? Do we Mariane Ysabella Pante @abtheflame | abtheflame.net

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Compromise and Sacrifice:

Thomasian dorm renters burdened by soaring inflation Words by AXEL ALDANA

Photo by RAINIEL ANGELYN FIGUEROA

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hen the University announced the feel terrible and apprehensive that my parents would gradual return of in-person classes, find it tough to meet our expenses,” Sombilon told architecture freshman Diane Sombilon the Flame. said she felt relieved to finally go back to normal.

Sombilon, who lives in a dormitory near the However, the latest inf lation figure made Sombilon, University, is just one of the many Thomasian who lives in Las Piñas, hesitate to rent a dorm and dorm-renters experiencing the struggle of living eventually return to campus. alone during a worsening inf lation. It forced her to reduce her budget for basic necessities as most The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) has been of her savings goes to her budget meals and rental reporting about rising inf lation in the past few expenses. months. The country's inf lation – the rate of the increase in the prices of goods and services over a “I choose places to eat like karinderya where there given period – climbed to a 14-year high of 7.7% are budgeted meals… I also used my personal in October. It was higher than the previous year savings to pay for the supplies I might need for my 6.9% posted in September and the 4% recorded in course in architecture and in case October last year. one of the dorm's supplies runs out.” she explained.

“Although I was first relieved that things would According to the National Economic and eventually return to normal, the inf lation made me Development Authority, gas, transportation, food,

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household maintenance, renting and housing, and “I prefer to cook meals instead of buying out. It communication were among the main contributors helps me save a lot because I can measure how of inf lation. much food I need for the day,” she said.

Budgeting

“I would prefer to walk, or ride jeepneys or buses, Like Sombilon, political science sophomore instead of [using] Angkas or Grab,” she added.

Ysabelle Andante felt the unfavorable effects of inf lation. Andante, who rents a dorm in Padre In terms of her utility bills, Andante said she Noval, realized the difficulties of making both ends tries her best to minimize the use of appliances meet. whenever she can. However, there are things that are “non-negotiable” like the internet.

“Despite my raise in allowance and additional privileges from my family, I struggle [a lot] to “The Internet bill is non-negotiable. It is a fixed budget. I’m already back in my dormitory, and P2000 per month. I tried prepaid wi-fi and it every day is a realization of how difficult it is to costs around P300 per week, but the signal can be earn money and allocate it to the most essential,” problematic,” she said.

Andante said.

Medical biology senior RJ Cañedo, who rents a Andante, who came from Bulacan, was forced to dormitory near the University, said “choosing the choose cheaper alternatives for her daily needs. needs over wants must be prioritized.” @abtheflame | abtheflame.net

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Her limited budget has also forced Sombilon to set “I should be aware of how I spend my money by aside the quality of the products she is buying. liquidating my receipts and expenses. I should consume less in order to spend less,” Cañedo told “I would have to choose among brands that sell their The Flame. products for less price rather than selecting highquality items from well-known companies,” she Sombilon, for her part, carefully chooses places with added. “student-friendly” prices and stays in her dorm to study to avoid unnecessary expenses. According to Cruz advised Thomasian renters to consider her, the strategy helped her pay for her school supplies miscellaneous expenses when choosing a dorm and personal needs. because most landlords might use inf lation as a way to increase their rent fees.

Not yet over

Economics instructor Loisa Cruz said commodity “Most landlords are going to be extra keen on prices may increase further in the future, a electricity and internet charges. At first, they’re not development that will surely pose burdens to the going to increase the price to their tenants because they’re just happy they got occupants, but over time, working class. they will surely increase the prices,“ she said.

She said the rising unemployment rate serves as Why is it worth renting dorms? another sign of worsening economic conditions.

Despite the budgeting difficulties, students The Philippines’ unemployment rate hit 5% in interviewed by The Flame said they still prefer living September, the lowest since October 2019, when it in dormitories because it is the environment that stood at 4.5%. The September figure translated to “works best” for them.

2.5 million jobless Filipinos, according to the PSA. A study from the Journal of Student Affairs Most sectors opted to reduce the number of their Research and Practice found that living in dorms is a employees due to the increased business expenses, great opportunity to boost the student's engagement in collaborative learning, discussions with diverse Cruz said.

The economics professor added that unless the others, and student-faculty interaction. government and private sector find a way to pull the inf lation down in three months, Thomasian Setting aside her hesitations, Sombilon said she dormitory renters should “start praying, be resilient, would still deal with the difficulties of budgeting just to attend face-to-face classes, believing that inand make their belts more tightened.” person setup would help her effectively acquire firsthand knowledge.

Compromise Cañedo admitted that budgeting also entails compromising even the most important things. “When it comes to education, I think we shouldn't There were times that he had to choose between his restrict ourselves to having the best facilities and resources since it would affect our performance,” she necessities and school requirements. said.

“In budgeting my meals and basic necessities like is personal hygiene, alongside school requirements, one Andante believes living independently “incomparable” and a good preparation for her in life. will always be compromised. After moving in, I must be frugal with money and be stringy with how I use “We only have four or five years of college before we my stuff,” he said. begin working and living outside of our comfort zone Andante needed to restrain herself from will make you realize your boundaries, potential, and “overindulging” with the things that would leave her things you need to figure out,” she said. F “empty-handed” the next day.

“I realize how unpredictable the situation is if I spoil myself too much; if I’m going to be having decent food tomorrow or have the money to travel back to Bulacan,” she said.

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Pandemic-affected businesses hopeful as Thomasians return to campus Photos by EDUARDO FAJERMO @abtheflame | abtheflame.net

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T

he COVID-19 brought great uncertainty not only to most individuals but also to many business owners.

On March 29, 2022, The Flame reported that a lot of businesses around the University were severely hit by the pandemic, as most of them remained closed at that time.

F

“Unlike before, are already now,near and rancis Perezthere has been sellingstudents street food I can now go home UST since 2017. early. I am all set by six in the evening; this is the best result of the return of faceJust classes,” like other businesses, his food stall to-face he said.

suspended operations during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, which transformed the Similarly, Venancio Gerilla also noticed the bustling area into a ghost town. difference in his business’ earnings now that the Thomasians returningpandemic on campus.situation and Due to theare improving

the easing of mobility restrictions, the University

But with the gradual offering of limited face-to-face classes of several programs in the University this academic year, several vendors and business owners are now seeing hope for the full recovery of their respective businesses.

decided to a offer in-person in He started [Whatlimited business?] in 2021.classes He took health-allied courses last year.

Perez saw it as an the risk of starting a business in the middle of a opportunity to reopen his struggle business.toHowever, he pandemic because of the find a job, had difficulty earning profit then due to the low Gerilla said.

Among them is Francis Perez, an ambulant street food vendor, who said the COVID-19 caused great strides in his business.

He said that could P2500 to P3000 in a “When therehe were onlyearn a few students, I [opened day as compared with salesand prior to the my business] at 10 in his theP2000 morning finished at 10 in thewhich evening,” Perez, who resumed previous— became enough to sustainselling their street food in February 2021, told The Flame. living for a few days.

Perez has been selling street foods to Thomasian students since 2017, but the sudden announcement of a lockdown last March 2020 forced him to temporarily close his business—which exhausted all his savings.

As mobility restrictions eased early last year and the gradual start of limited in-person classes of UST medicine and health-allied students, Perez risked to re-open his business last February 2021.

But the low number of students---the main customer of his business---caused Perez to have a hard-time earning.

number of students buying from him.

Now that more students are returning to campus,

“Last year, our income [was] just fair enough, but Perez said he can go home earlier because his now since the students stocks quickly sell-out.are back, I can say that it is improving,” he added.

“I am all set by six in the evening. This is the

best result ofBeverly the return of face-to-face classes,” Meanwhile, Ponum also braved this he said. pandemic-ridden economy by opening a sari-sari store business near the University [when did she Perez is one of the business owners around the open?] to make their ends meet.

University who are hoping to recover from the impact of the pandemic. As campus life slowly “[Because the pandemic] we do not have any returns toof normal and the demand for goods and more source of income sinceestablishments my husband has only services increases, some have reopened whilecustomers,” new onesshe have limited tricycle said.replaced those that shuttered permanently.

“When there were only a few students, I [opened my business] at 10 in the morning and finished at 10 in the evening,” Perez told The Flame.

But the return of students residing near the campus Another street food vendor, Venancio Gerilla, helped to the apparent improvement in Ponum’s noticed the improvement in his earnings now business compared to whenare she was just starting. that some Thomasians attending classes

Differences are felt

“Unlike before, are still items left unsold, buta taking the riskthere of starting a business during pandemic since isheeasily struggled to find job. now everything sold out,” sheasaid.

onsite. He started selling street food in 2021,

Perez noticed how his business improved when more programs in the University began offering in-person classes by the start of this academic year last August.

Comeback day compared to his P2,000 sales last year. It was

UST Department of Financial Management Asst.

Prof. Imelda Angeles previously told The Flame that face-to-face classes could assist business owners in recuperating their losses due to the pandemic.

is improving,” he added.

Perez shared he can now pack up earlier since his stocks of skewered street food quickly sell out.

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Gerilla said he could earn P2,500 to P3,000 a

While businesses in the for University emerged enoughsome to sustain his family a few days. because of financial needs, there are other “Last year,reopened our income just fair enough, but businesses due[was] to the demands of many now since the students are back, I can say that it Thomasian students.

One of them is Carmen reopened her Beverly Ponum also Duas bravedwho this pandemicsari-sari store business along Antonio Street in ridden economy by opening a sari-sari store near Dapitan last August because “people telling us the University in 2021 to make endsare meet. that students from UST will already come back.”

“[Because ofSioco the pandemic] wepopular do not Dimsum have any Similarly, Leo re-opened his more branches source ofaround incomeUST since husband has Treats duemy to rising public only limited tricycle customers,” she said. demand.

“Unlike before, there are still items left unsold, but now everything is easily sold out.”

“We got some messages online asking when are we going to open; that was quite a big factor,” he said

Still wary

Despite their improving situation, Ponum and He also are reopened Koto not branch Gerilla aware the thatKaraage they should leaveina Dapitan to meet the increasing demand room for complacency and that they shouldfor be Dimsum ready forTreats. possible sudden changes.

Ponum on improving and adding “It’s about plans 60% percent of pre-pandemic sales variations to her sari-sari store to take advantage which is surprising given that UST is still [not yet of the higher demand. conducting] full face-to-face classes,” Sioco said.

Gerilla is considering expanding his food menu.

However, Still waryhe still has reservations about this idea due torespective uncertainties.

As the businesses of Ponum and Gerilla mainly depend on the influx of students, to be “During the rainy season, there are only a few complacent has nowhy room for them, as they customers. That’s in circumstances like felt this the need to constantly adapt to sudden possible [I am not considering expanding],” Gerilla added. changes.

Experts noted that the challenges brought by the pandemic arePonum still present.

On the one hand, plans on improving and adding variations to her sari-sari store to meet and UST economics department chairperson Carlos take advantage of the demands.

Manapat said paying cheaper and fixed costs and vying for strategic locations are important to Meanwhile, is considering expanding earn profit Gerilla in the new normal, especially in his the food menu.sector.

However, he still has reservations on this informal idea due to the looming threats of an unpredictable “Thewhich cheaper it deter gets,histhe better. That’s the future could business.

strategy—survival,” he told The Flame.

“During the rainy season, there are only a few According to Manapat, knowing the potential customers. why in the circumstances like this [I demand ofThat’s the area and competition between am considering expanding],” thenot closest rival stores are also Gerilla vital toadded. secure the

business’ profitability.

Although many businesses around University are “Theagain, technique herewarned is you need to observe. lively Angeles business ownersYou to need to see your closest rival [and] how much of “feel the environment and the current demand so the whole pie or the percentage does [a specific] they will not overestimate or underestimate the business,” he said. goods that they are going to sell.” F

Online platforms and business

While some businesses in the University were established to meet some financial needs, others reopened due to consumer demand.

Leo Sioco reopened his popular Dimsum Treats branches around UST upon the request of his Thomasian clients.

“We got some messages online asking when we are going to open. That was quite a big factor,” he said He also resumed the operations of his Karaage Koto branch in Dapitan.

“It’s about 60% of pre-pandemic sales which is surprising given that UST is still [not yet conducting] full face-to-face classes,” Sioco said.

UST Department of Economics Assoc. Prof.

Nancy Bartolome said online platforms and online mode of delivery could help small businesses cope with the losses caused by the pandemic.

“We already have a lot of social media (that can be used for business) as long as you can maintain the quality of the products you will provide because that’s very important,” she told The Flame.

Bartolome noted that customer satisfaction is not just about product quality.

“It’s not all about the quality of the product; it’s about the supplementary elements,” she said, referring to the importance of a hospitable attitude towards customers and offering different payment options for their convenience.

Still in the pandemic

Manapat and Bartolome reminded businesses to observe health protocols to ensure their customers’ safety, given that the pandemic still exists.

“I think we know better as consumers… but [people] can still gamble. I think we need to be careful, and these people (business owners) should reinvent on how they will give us (customers) safe food on repacking or how it’s is cooked,” Manapat said.

Bartolome said consumers appreciate a business that is transparent with its standards and health protocols.

“Make sure that what you give them is really very clean, healthy with benefits. Because if you don’t have it, it’s like a one-time buyer. They won’t come back,” she said. F — E. G. Fajermo Jr. and P. N. Bautista

@abtheflame | abtheflame.net

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Photo by ETHAN CARDAÑO A street food vendor selling in her cart during Christmas in 2020 at Gapan Plaza Market

FEATURES

Photo

by GREHMALYNE A portrait of a man carrying chairs in theCARANDANG busy streets of Divisoria.

ABFRANCES Communication Juniors attended their first in-person Photo by IGNALAGA tura Garcia Paredes, O.P. building.

class in Buenaven-

Once upon a Pandemic: How diseases come and go Photo by ANGELINE TANQUECO

B

reathe in, breathe out. These were the things that consistent with the phases from WHO, then we can consider one Marilen Balolong, a University of the Philippines Manila to be a pandemic," Peralta said. microbiology professor, did freely one calm morning while jogging around their neighborhood in Alabang.

When a pandemic starts, at some point it also ends, just not quite how it is expected to be. In the transition out of a pandemic, a zero With no one around in sight, Balolong freely inhaled the case is not the end of a pandemic, but rather how the number morning breeze without the inconvenient mask the COVID-19 of deaths to cases impacts a society by overwhelming a health pandemic forced people to wear. system, according to Balolong.

While people like Balolong have to ensure that an area is not The end of a pandemic, Peralta noted, is based on the severity of that crowded before removing their face masks, it wasn’t that bad infection, its transmission rates, and the immunization rates. compared to the situation two years ago. Back then, people had to wear both face masks and face shields to protect themselves. Re-emergence The face shield requirement was then lifted, making it easier for Some diseases, such as viruses, do not stay dead. They hide in the people to move around. surroundings lying low.

On Oct. 28, 2022, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed Executive "There is a possibility that diseases 're-emerge', if it is still in the Order No.7, which made the wearing of face masks indoors and environment, they can mutate, choose a host, and be transmitted. outdoors voluntary, with a few exceptions like health facilities It's one of the concerns now in medical microbiology, the reand public transport. But health experts are encouraging the emerging ones," Balolong said. public to continue wearing face masks, noting that the pandemic is not yet over.

The health department has refused to declare the COVID-19 pandemic as reaching the endemic stage, citing the low booster Pandemic, lockdown, personal protective equipment. The coverage and the emergence of sub-variants. year 2020 certainly introduced some new vocabulary. Although maladies came and went, phrases and terms such as these “Endemicity will come soon but as of now it is quite uncertain dominated the everyday lives of people globally. because of the low booster coverage and the effect of sub-variants While they are not exactly new words, these terms today quietly live with us, waiting for the right time to be used.

The life of a pandemic

in the population,” Vergeire said in a recent briefing.

Vergeire said COVID-19 must be under control and its fatalities should be kept to a minimum before one can say that it is already endemic or as common as measles or dengue fever.

A pandemic is a term used to describe a disease that has been occurring on a global-scale. Balolong says epidemiologists use There are also some viruses that Balolong would like to call terms like pandemic to understand each other. "dating mabait (formerly good ones)," which are viruses that, over time, develop the tendency to be harmful.

"Pandemic is one of the many names. You hear about outbreaks, you hear about incidences when you say pandemic, it covers quite "Some virus gets back with a vengeance. When they get back, a huge area of impact already[…] which is the case for COVID-19 they're not naive anymore, they know what to do. They're better now," Balolong said. or they're worse—and we're not ready," Balolong added.

Elfritzson Peralta of the UST biological sciences department said To understand why such a phenomenon happens, Peralta there are phases identified by the World Health Organization emphasized the anthropocene or how human activities influence (WHO) to consider a disease a pandemic. disease occurrence and recurrence, saying it increases when people interact with animals—may it be through hunting, "It has to start from an infection[…] then a larger scale of collecting, or consuming. outbreaks, the rate of transmission, [the] scale of infection, all

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"We always highlight the one health; our connectedness and interaction among the three health systems: human, environment, and animal health, that increases the tendency to acquire diseases," Peralta said.

Viruses are like particles that are everywhere. Most of them are not harmful unless disturbed.

"The challenge with viruses is once they are inside the hosts, they borrow its machinery and they learn to do many things, one of which is to cause infection," Balolong said.

However, Balolong said that it is not the virus' fault, for this is in their nature. Infection is a consequence and is part of a cycle, but this wouldn't be a problem if we just let them be.

Beyond negativities

It is no secret, however, that the environment was able to breathe when people had to be locked inside their homes during the onset of the pandemic.

“Definitely the world during 2020 had to pause, and when we did that pause, a number of observations have been made in terms of decreasing emissions on carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gasses that are usually high in various regions,” Peralta said.

Peralta said that those countries that experienced lockdown have observed the “positive effect” of the pandemic, in terms of global warming.

“However, these things cannot just reflect the current situation… when it comes to climate change, it is part and parcel of the consequences, and the contributions of the pandemic,” Peralta said.

But Peralta also clarified that everyone should also expect the climate to change over time.

“In the decades that we have observed climate, it is not novel for it to change, what is notable, is the rate of change. Hence, we prefer to call it the climate crisis,” Peralta said.

According to Peralta, the climate crisis is the rate of how climate change exceeds the expected rate of how it should change, wherein living components of the earth cannot keep up to the change it brings.

The initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic had made things quiet for a while. But as time passed with the increase in production of personal protective equipment (PPEs), the pandemic also became one of the causes for increased greenhouse gas emissions.

Climate change link Although pandemics are expected to occur with or without climate change, Peralta said climate change accelerates the chances of its occurrence.

“As long as there is human to animal interaction, and there’s

unsustainable development among the environment and animal health systems, climate change can accelerate resurgence of certain diseases,” Peralta said.

Balolong said the connection between climate change and pandemics does not happen overnight.

“It is probably something that happens through time. It’s like when something’s cooking, and the climate change triggers it, mostly through zoonotic means. It can be five to ten years in the making, we never know,” Balolong said.

Balolong furthered that many things can happen in a medium span of time, and one culprit is climate change.

“You might want to imagine, if we are gonna close the COVID-19 pandemic by 2024, as expected by the experts…

What new pandemic should we expect by 2024? And how did climate change contribute to that?” Balolong said.

Masks on? Masks off?

Despite the relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions lately, Balolong urged everyone to remain mindful of the minimum health protocols.

“Minimum health protocols are free, just wash your hands regularly. It is the easiest, cheapest, and most hygienic preventive measure to avoid infections,” Balolong said.

Along with this, Balolong advises that additional protocols such as wearing face masks and vaccination should be implemented correctly.

“We must know why we use face masks, it is not just about being tasked to do so. The advocacy should pair up with the policy, if face masks should not be mandatory anymore, there should be a precautionary statement,” Balolong said.

To avoid the worldwide use of face masks and other PPEs that contribute to the climate crisis, Peralta said another pandemic must be prevented from happening “We must delay it, otherwise, we are again forced to use and produce a number of disposable PPEs that increases our waste disposal to the environment,” Peralta said.

He noted that in other countries, especially the prepandemic developed nations, using face masks becomes part of their daily lives “to avoid transmissions even with regular flu.”

“One or two in the society who would use face masks to avoid transmission would not hurt the environment, not to mention we might prevent another pandemic from happening while we are still under one,” the biology educator said. F — K.C. de Leon

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FLAME | 29

'We have some trauma:'

Filipino workers in Ukraine recall anxiety over Russian invasion Art by TCHEKY NICOLE D. CABRERA On the other end of the line was a Filipino reporter, telling her that a war had begun in Ukraine.

The words woke her. She immediately got up from her bed and walked towards the window. She opened the curtains and saw what was happening outside: panic; traffic; an exodus.

She must immediately leave Ukraine, the country she left home for a living, to save her life.

A run for safety

Like Tolentino, other Filipino migrant workers in Ukraine also went to other places as the Russian invasion began. Some left by car and others by train; while some of them agreed on a particular meeting place to flee in groups and ensure safety.

Among them was Shirley Santosildes Tividad, who worked as a public school teacher. She arrived at a bus stop where she and other migrants had agreed to meet.

But unlike Santosildes, Tolentino chose not to join the other fleeing migrant workers. Tolentino opted to be with her employer going to Lviv, a city in the west of Ukraine, in the belief that it is safer there in case of emergencies.

T

he day before the Ukraine invasion was a normal day for Filipino migrant worker Joy Tolentino.

After work, she went to her phone—peacefully scrolling her social media— without anticipating the storm that was to come. She went to sleep feeling at ease. It was five in the morning of the following day when her phone suddenly rang—an unusual event for her.

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Despite taking a different path, Tividad and Tolentino noted similar scenes of locals struggling to evacuate.

Tividad herself felt the struggle of escaping the chaos. She remembered ducking underground into subways every time a siren rang.

The mode of transportation also became limited, making “Though it contributes to better opportunities for migrant it harder for her to go to their meeting place. But luckily, Filipinos, it makes our economy and the welfare of their she found people—the parents of her students—who were families closely tied to developments in other parts of the world,” Encinas-Franco said. “Decent jobs in the Philippines willing to help and assist her and her companions. are still the best way to protect our citizens.“ Tolentino, meanwhile, recalled seeing tanks and trucks Crossing borders containing firearms on the road.

Soon after, Tividad and her companions left Lviv to go to Hungary, where an employer from one of her Staying alive Keeping themselves alive was as hard as finding a safe acquaintances was waiting for them. After enduring heavy place to hide. Tolentino admitted that her stay with her traffic, immense hunger, and fatigue, they finally reached the border of Hungary. employer’s care had caused her anxiety.

Every hour was a scene of hearing a loud siren and running She shared that there was some doubt when a free ride to the bunker. To keep them safe from air strikes, no lights going to Budapest was offered, but the promise of safe transportation remained. were allowed from 6 p.m. until 7 a.m.

Because of this, Tolentino left her employer’s residence From Budapest, they continued their way to Austria, with and traveled to Austria despite knowing the possibility of no assurance that they would find the same goodwill they her becoming TNT (in Filipino: takbo nang takbo, a term found in Hungary. referring to illegal immigrants). She noted that immigrants are only allowed to stay for a month in that country even With the help of the internet and fellow Filipino migrant workers, Budapest greeted them with warmth. Tividad and during a regional crisis. all her eight companions were safe.

Meanwhile, Tividad’s travel for safety was accompanied by daily calls from her worried family in the Philippines. Meanwhile, Tolentino moved from country to country Her family kept on asking her to consider coming back after leaving Austria. Currently, she is in France where she now resides. However, the horror of the situation continues home. to haunt them.

The Philippine Embassy in Ukraine has provided assistance to safely send Filipino migrant workers back to “We have some trauma,” Tolentino lamented. “Sometimes the country. It also gave them cash assistance worth $200 we think the sound of normal planes would be followed by a bomb.” dollars.

But Tividad refused the aid, believing that returning to the But despite finding safety in Hungary, Tividad eventually Philippines would make things more difficult for her and returned to Ukraine—much to the surprise of her companions—to continue teaching. On her return to for her family due to limited opportunities back home.

Ukraine, she was the only foreigner.

“It would be expensive to return to Europe. I knew I wouldn’t have a job in the Philippines as a teacher. I didn’t Tividad was still worried and afraid as occasional sirens want my family and me to struggle together,” Tividad said. and warfare existed, but the practice of going to bunkers or walls from time to time became something she was Jean Encinas-Franco, a political science associate professor accustomed to. at the University of the Philippines and a former director of the Senate Economic Planning Office, noted that overseas As of the first half of this year, the Department of Foreign Affairs has assisted 450 affected Filipino migrant workers employment is prone to crises. in Ukraine with about 400 of them having safely returned “Because the protection of Filipino migrants abroad is one to the Philippines. of the pillars of our national interest, the government has to protect them in crisis situations. In the case of Ukraine, safe As of Oct. 20, at least 25 Filipinos remained in Ukraine, repatriation is its primary responsibility,” Encinas-Franco and they are being closely monitored, given the worsening situation in the country. F — Lila Victoria F. Mortel told The Flame.

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Photo by GREHMALYNE CARANDANG A senior citizen laughing while buying “palamig.”

CULTURE

ARIS JHON GALANG BambooPhoto sticks, by where people write their wishes, are seen in a popular tourist spot at A mural of Rajah Soliman/Sulayman, the last chieftain of Manila before it was Shifen, Taiwan.

Photo bycolonized FRANCESbyIGNALAGA the Spaniards, painted on one of the walls inside Intramuros.

return of y2k fashion USING NosTALGIA FOR SELF-EXPRESSION Art by ANJELLYCA S. VILLAMAYOR

F

ashion tends to be cyclical. For one, the popularity Looking back: Y2K at first glance of belt bags in the 1980s reappeared in today’s The term “Y2K” came from the late 90s problem in fashion scene. So, 2000s fashion trends coming most computer systems when interpreting the last two back in style is not a surprise. digits of years beyond 1999.

Mom jeans, cargo pants, turtle necks, sweater vests, However, people in the online world, especially and bucket hats are some of the 2000s crazes that made in Tiktok, have recently used the term to name and a comeback in the mainstream. reminisce about the 2000s pop culture and fashion spearheaded by Paris Hilton and other personalities.

Fashion trends usually have a 20-year rule. What was “in” 20 years ago would be “in” again today.

The 2000s fashion is a broad stroke and is sometimes associated with classic teen, and contemporary shows such as High School Musical, Mean Girls, Clueless, and Legally Blonde.

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trend.

Legal management senior Gilene Platero, who loves to dress up in chic and girly fits, said that people “I think more than nostalgia, it is the fear of missing differently interpret 2000s fashion as it has a distinct out [that] the people of our generation have [that drives] edge that makes it more identifiable.

Y2K fashion [into] coming back,” Platero said.

“2000s fashion covers a lot of styles [...] that makes the What fashion truly is [era] unique,” she said.

Despite whatever era the society is in, fashion is seen as expressing oneself, remembering the past, and Contrary to what the people think, Platero said Y2K learning something new fashion is something that can be worn daily. Similar to her fashion taste, the fashion trend during this era was Lazaro said that dressing up nicely should create a mixture of a kikay style on the one hand and a street happy and positive thoughts and become a source of style on the other. comfort.

Fashion enthusiast and communication senior Jeia “In any decade, dressing up means becoming a better Jazul associated Y2K fashion with micro miniskirts version of yourself for an occasion. Thus it will always and “bejeweled” clothing and accessories. be a source of positive memory,” she said.

She also mentioned that Y2K fashion was known for Fourth-year literary student Mika Nitro said her the logomania trend—a fashion style that strews brand outfits were inspired by one of the characters from her logos as clothing design, which “achieved greater old favorite flicks, and by doing so, it gives her “main heights in contemporary fashion.” character vibes.”

Media influencing nostalgia

For Nitro, dressing up should mean looking Mimi Lazaro, a fashion designer and entrepreneur presentable and comfortable in front of whoever she is who runs her own brand of clothing at Bumblebee and going to meet, and should make her more confident Co, said the past would always come back in one way or another—may it be decor, art, or fashion trends— “I wear what I want to wear and whatever makes me confident. I believe that when I feel confident from because nostalgia is a “lovely” feeling. the outside it radiates to the inside. And even though “I believe it [resurfaces] because it’s normal for us to I don't do well that day…at least I look cute, and my reminisce. For instance, when I was just starting as a outfit is bomb.” fashion designer at 25, my design elements [tended] to be inspired by the clothing I remember my mom was Jaramel said choosing an outfit should depend on the occasion. But oftentimes, layering is his way to go. wearing when I was like five or six,” she said.

Behavioral science student Jio Jaramel, who loves to He thinks layering also makes the outfit more flexible blend e-boy and artsy fashion designs, said the media as mixing and matching it with other statement pieces shifts depending on the environment. helped in promoting fashion trends over time.

“Looking back [at] your parents' photo albums or “Baggy and oversized clothes somehow make me simply re-watching classic series and films, for example, feel enclosed in such a way that it's very chill and can inspire you to recreate fashion trends during their comforting, and matching it with a fit inner shirt showcases a nice silhouette,” he said. time,” Jaramel said.

He said that the simplistic and iconic look gives a Artlets can also learn from Platero’s rules when it comes to matching fits: “If I wear something short for fresh perspective to fashion. my top, I have to wear something big or long for my The mainstream media has enabled presenting and bottom and vice versa.” comparing fashion trends in different eras. It has also She also has the sandwich dressing rule—wearing allowed Gen Zs to know these fashion trends. a matching shade of the tops and bottoms, then “With the rise of mainstream media, most likely sandwiching it with a different color—when planning Tiktok, and the amount of audience participating in her OOTDs (outfits of the day). that network, the early 2000’s fashion trends have been brought up and have been compared to the fashion of Trends are short-lived, yet, they always find their way this modern digital world,” said Gabriel Dela Cuesta, a back. At the end of the day, figuring out which trends junior from Asian Studies. to ride on and which style to follow reflects how one accentuates individuality. F — Thea Rebecca DC. Like Jaramel, Platero said the never-ending popularity Flores of 2000s films and sitcoms are the few reasons why fashion trends are coming back. But she also viewed that most people only copy its aesthetics to hop on the @abtheflame | abtheflame.net

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Fandoms in war:

Are they going too far? photo by KARL IBAY

Note: This article mentions suicide, death threats and toxic behaviors.

A

fter defending a K-pop artist by replying to comments to a Twitter hate post, Polytechnic University of the Philippines biology senior Seth Niño Paparon was mobbed by several fan accounts.

Online attacks on K-pop groups, Paparon said, usually happen during their most notable events like awards nights and talent show awardings, and reading such hate comments is indeed hard to ignore.

“I’m just opposing everything that the fans of other groups claimed or those statements that are thrown at us,” Paparon said.

I’m always infuriated by that […] It’s like they are directly insulting my whole life,” Paparon said, referring to the artist he has been supporting for about a decade.

It bothered him more than the personal comments he received.

It took him a while before realizing the importance of not responding to such vitriol. But he is convinced that there are circumstances where engaging in “fan wars” is important, especially when the rival fan groups are propagating “fake news.”

Since he uses his personal account, most of the comments targeted his physical appearance.

These fan wars occur to show who are really the leading groups in the industry that contest and contradict the “entitled fan groups,” Paparon said.

“It (personal comment) does not bother me, but the hate comments targeted at my idols such as Taeyeon’s voice having a terrible sound.

Despite criticisms that they have become toxic, fandoms earned their relevance in Philippine society because they are “not simply passive

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people,” said Asst. Prof. Samuel Cabbuag of the University of the Philippines sociology department.

“Actually, most of fan wars occur intentionally, but in my opinion, we only follow what other fandoms started,” Paparon said, as spur-of“Fandoms are considered groups of people with similar goals and the-moment conflicts are only short-lived and do not lead to fan wars. points for affection (or what scholars call ‘fan objects’),” Cabbuag told The Flame.

“Of course, most of the fan wars start on who is the most [superior in] different groups,”Denise said.

Toxicity and fanaticism

Fans in the online world go to a certain extent of aggressive arguing and debating just to defend their idols. It includes participating in online engagements such as “wars” with other fans.

Denise and Paparon admitted that they joined fanwars to defend their preferred performers from the attacks of fans showing disrespectful behaviors.

“You can consider it a fan war if it [becomes] trending towards the ‘[If] I find some comments not decent enough or outright disrespectful, community, which takes a lot of time to spread and make stories, I still call those people out (e.g. sexualization of minors, involving accusations, [teasing], etc.,” Paparon said. the artist's dead relatives, racism),” Denise said.

Paparon, who has been a fan of several girl groups like Girls Generation since 2012, has already witnessed and engaged in many “fan wars.” He noted that it was also in this year when the peak of “fan wars” occurred.

“It was like Goo Hara fandom versus other groups' fandoms (who wanted to see her downfall) until she committed suicide. It was really painful,” Paparon said, adding that the incident is one of the extreme effects of fan wars.

“It's like if there's people who can afford concerts and support them But sometimes, fans could also cross the line by taking such war in the front, we support them at their backs,” Paparon explained. personally to the extent that they would send death threats either to other fans or the artists, Denise said.

Another biology student, Denise (not her real name) has also experienced many “fan wars” since she joined stan Twitter, a so- “In some fanwars, some fans will try to dox people, some are even called community in Twitter where fans interact with each other sending death threats to the artists and the fans. Though I did not using accounts dedicated to their idols. experience them myself, it's still wrong in any sort. I can't believe some people are doing [this] over kpop,” she said.

“I was taking everything seriously […] I finally realized that most haters do not want to be convinced that they are wrong, they just want to hate everyone,” Denise said.

Block and ignore While K-pop fans interviewed by The Flame admitted that such However, Denise realized that the zeal of these fans and their wars would never end as it is already part of the culture, they advised aggressive behaviors often bring their idols harm: “The worst part fellow fans to just block and ignore those who exhibit toxic behavior. is they will involve the artists too. They will do anything to ruin someone's reputation.”

“When someone [who is] mad replies to me, I ignore them and then block their accounts. These are people I don’t know and I get UST literature student Yvonne Vigillia believes that toxicity only absolutely nothing interacting with them,” Vigillia said. happens when it “takes over your life” and has endangered one’s overall well-being.

“Actually, there's no specific reason that these fan wars stop as I remember. We just wait until the issues dwindle on their own,” “It becomes toxic once it takes over your life to the point of Paparon said. endangering your health, your finances, and the way you treat other people whether or not they’re fans of the same thing as you,” Vigillia Denise, for her part, said getting involved in fanwars could actually said. “ruin” fan experience, hence “choosing not to engage will stop the draining feeling,: She also warned about blind fanaticism as a source of toxicity.

According to her, it happens when fans justify and condone At the end of the day, joining fan wars does not bring any benefit and problematic behavior of their idols despite shreds of evidence. would only “promote cancel culture and bullying,” she added.

Cabbuag observed that some fans may believe that they have a certain power, the reason why most clashes happen.

Paparon said that while implementing strict rules would make fan wars die down, it would also lose the essence of fandoms and fanwars.

She suggested that fans “just refrain from digging deep into personal “They insist on certain norms, ideas, etcetera to other fans, non-fans, information” of artists and their supporters and sadly, to their idols because they are not doing what the fans want them to do,” Cabbuag explained how these extremes connect Cabbuag said promoting good practices can start by listing etiquettes to their identity as fans. that fans can observe.

How wars start in fandoms

“I don't think that calling them out is beneficial, so it is best to show Cabbuag said fanwars often started with the one who is deemed what the good practices are so people can learn about it and follow “superior” in the fandom. through,” Cabbuag said. F — S. Z. Argonza and T.R. Flores @abtheflame | abtheflame.net

FLAME | 37

Monument of Children of the Sun Returning at Subic bay Photo by FRANCES IGNALAGA

A girl wearing a floral dress, a classic pearl necklace, and holding a hand-painted hand fan to represent Filipina old fashion.

Photo by GREHMALYNE CARANDANG

LITERARY LETTERS

A Thomasian sits on one of the benches along Benevides’ lane, also known as lover’s lane.

Photo by FRANCES IGNALAGA

Photo by DANICA RAMILO

I. The Tyrant I hear Agamemnon’s envoys, their heavy footfalls weigh his commands.

A mere outrage, the Tyrant had and here his envoys storm Achilles’ quarters to rob anyone who tells the truth in his face, or in songs; And soon those bards of truth will lose their tongues, or have their sons’ eyes scraped out from their sockets.

A mere outrage, Agamemnon had and here his envoys clench their fist tight against my flesh on our way to his quarters.

A remedy was I, to his threatened pride and power.

His word is Law. II. The Council and their Plunder I attend Agamemnon’s council, to pour their cups around their war table.

Towns and cities appeared in wood upon a table, soon to be plundered of their gold and rations.

My people reduced to wooden war miniatures, and trade commodities to pyre and ashes.

A flick of Greek fingers and Trojan allies are beggared and burned.

A flick of Greek fingers and Hades’ realm welcomes new souls.

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AGAME an HIS CR Words by CZEZ ADUZARA

A

EMNON nd RONIES

Art by FRANCIS RAFAEL D. OBENZA

And here I am quenching the thirst of the minds of my neighbor’s impending doom.

Odysseus speaks, he whose counsel is wiser than other’s.

Indomeneus arms, the most aged war chief is he, primed to raise the spear at the king’s first command.

Agamemnon’s strength ends in his allies. In his pawns, in his exposition of grandeur.

He can not burn Ilium without them.

III. The Burn of Troy A rich city, Ilium was but Trojan bellies starve to feed a war.

Now her last morning dawns, the greeks hushed their tongues, soon to devour the city’s splendor.

The thirst of Agamemnon and his greek army for gold, for exploits, for grandeur unquenched by the city ashes by the wail of raped mothers whose babes plucked from their breasts by the trickle of Trojan blood by ignited pyres of corpses who once fought for a beloved city now under siege by greedy forces.

As Ilium Wall set ablaze, and the last Trojan pillar falls Agamemnon and his cronies feasts on the spoils of war.

His ransacked gold, blood-stained. F

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A Fat her's Dillema By: ABIGAIL ADRIATICO

Artwork by: JEANNE PAULINE G. TECSON

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T

he sound of church bells greeted Mang Armando as he walked toward that Plaza. He was all too familiar with the loud clanging before a mass and the crowd that it would form not long after. On a different day, he would be among those who gently pushed past others to secure a seat on one of the pews for his young daughter Maribel.

But he was not here to attend the anticipated mass.

With the church packed to the brim, dozens of people had to stand under the heat of the midday sun. Some children stood by the church doors, holding up the sampaguita flowers they were selling. As the lector’s voice blared through the speakers, devotees focused on the ongoing mass.

Lowering his cap just enough for it to shield his eyes, Mang Armando made his way through the crowd and stood at the back near the stalls that sold various kinds of fruits. He did not need to look at the prices scrambled on cardboard signs stuck on the boxes to know how expensive they were.

Before he left the hospital earlier, Maribel asked him to bring some fresh mangoes. Mang Armando was not even sure that he had enough for her medicine. Their finances were stretched thin as it is ever since he was laid off from his janitorial work. However, after seeing the weak smile on his daughter’s face, he could not find it in him to say no.

After all, he would do anything for his daughter.

Mang Armando focused his gaze on the crowd. A vast majority of them were fixated on the priest’s homily but were still clutching their bags protectively. He knew better than to go after them.

He had to look out for those who would let their guard down for only a few seconds. That was all he needed.

After some time, someone caught his attention. It was a young woman who was walking away from the crowd as she answered a call. Mang Armando eyed her white sling bag that was left open. It only took a quick bump on the shoulder, a sheepish apology, and a quick flick of the wrist for him to grab something from her bag before disappearing into the crowd.

Slipping into an alley he knew too well, Mang Armando opened the pink wallet he held in his hands. Inside was a bunch of photos, IDs, a few coins, and five crisp one thousand peso bills. This was more than enough to cover Maribel’s medicine as well as the mangoes she wanted.

He felt his lips form a smile as adrenaline continued to course through his veins. It has been a long time since he felt this ecstatic rush surge into his chest. It always did make him feel alive.

Yet, while his body reeled from the excitement of it all, realization soon dawned on him–what would Maribel say?

Ignoring the growing chill slowly crawling onto his spine, Mang Armando made his way back to buy the things he needed. He went through the crowd, feigning innocence as the busy street hid the church from his view. He did not need to look at the cross at its peak to begin feeling the crushing weight of the wallet in his pocket and the sins on his back.

Eventually, he reached the hospital. It did not change much from when he left that morning.

It was still filled to the brim with long lines of patients and medical personnel coming to and fro. He let himself in the hospital room Maribel shared with a dozen other patients, their beds separated only by dark green curtains.

He heard her coughing loudly before he reached her bed and saw her playing with a worn out rag doll. The little girl's eyes lit up instantly when she saw him. "Papa!"

Mang Armando forced a smile as he went to her side before showing her the plastic bag filled with mangoes. Maribel dropped the doll she was holding and looked at the bag in disbelief. "Para sa akin po lahat yan?"

Mang Armando gently patted his daughter's head. "Sabi mo kasi gusto mo ng mangga."

Maribel's smile grew wider before she threw her arms around her father. "The best ka talaga, Papa!"

As he hugged her back, Mang Armando caught a glimpse of the cross above Maribel's bed. It was just like the old ones above the other patients’ beds but for some reason, it seemed like this one was staring into his soul. He felt a cold chill run down his spine as he remembered the empty wallet in his pocket.

Maribel began coughing again.

Mang Armando found himself hugging his daughter tighter. F

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SANGUI CORVUS

By TRIXCY LOSERIAGA

Artwork by ANJELLYCA S. VILLMAYOR Malalim na ang gabi ngunit maaliwalas pa rin ang kwarto ni munting ibon na nakakubli sa kailaliman ng gabi. Mala-rosas ang Patrick. mata nito kaya sinapian siya ng pagkama-usisa at dahan-dahang lumapit.

Nag-aayos siya ng kanyang bag para sa unang araw ng klase.

Inaantok man, nakaukit sa kanyang mukha ang pagkasabik na Lalo siyang natakot nang napagtanto niyang nakatingin ito sa makatungtong muli sa paaralan. Sinarado na niya ang bintana at kanya. ilaw at naghilamos bago dumeretso sa kama.

Natigilan siya at tinakpan ang bibig.

Naalimpungatan siya nang narinig niya ang malakas na katok sa bintana. Nilibot ng kanyang mga mata ang silid ngunit wala Dumadanak ang dugo mula sa naaagnas na kaliwang mata naman siyang nakita. Napatingin siya sa orasan. ng ibon. Muntik na siyang maduwal ng may lumabas na mga uod mula sa mata. Nabitawan niya ang unan ng nahulog ang Alas-tres na, sambit ng isip niya. kapirasong balat ng ibon na nilabasan ng ilang dosenang gagamba.

Nakaidlip siya nang biglang may kumatok muli sa bintana.

Napabalikwas siya ng mapansin ang isang anino. Nanginginig Biglang siyang inatake ng ibon kaya kumaripas siya ng takbo man, kumuha siya ng unan at dahan-dahang nilapitan ang pabalik sa kanyang kama; nagtalukbong siya sa kumot. anino. Tinutok ng buwan ang liwanag nito sa anino. Isang

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Bigyan mo kami ngayon ng aming kakanin sa araw-araw, isip niya.

Nataranta sa si Patrick kaya tumakbo siya palabas ng silid.

Nararamdaman niya ang mga gumagapang na gagamba.

Patuloy lang siya sa pagtakbo hanggang sa lumitaw muli ang ibon, dahilan upang mahulog siya sa hagdan.

At huwag mo kaming ipahintulot sa tukso, isip niya.

Napabalikwas siya mula sa kama. Tumutulo ang pawis mula sa kanyang noo.

Gumagapang na ang mga uod sa kanyang katawan. Naiiyak na siya sa sobrang takot.

“At iadya mo kami sa lahat ng masama! Amen,” bulalas niya.

Mabilis niyang hinablot ang orasan.

“Hala, alas-singko na!” isip niya.

Napuno na ng katahimikan ang kwarto. Wala na ang mga “Hoy, Patrick, tanghali na! Bumangon ka na,” bulalas ng kanyang gumagapang sa kanya kaya dahan-dahan siyang nagnakaw ng ina. silip sa labas.

Bumangon na ito at nag-ayos ng sarili.

Wala na ang ibon at ang mga gumagapang na nilalang.

Nag-paalam na siya sa ina. Naging normal naman ang biyahe ni Patrick sapagkat wala ni anino ng mga paruparo. Siksikan Inaasahan niya na nagluluto na ang kanyang ina subalit tahimik ang mga pasahero dahil na rin sa rush hour na sinabayan pa ng ang paligid. maingay na tambutso ng dyip.

“Baka tulog pa nga siya,” isip nito.

Naliligo na siya sa pawis pagdating sa paaralan na napagkamalan pa niyang sementeryo sa dami ng mga tuod at nalalantang May tinapay at prutas sa lamesa. Kumuha siya ng isang baso bulaklak. Napatigil siya sa itsura ng mga estudyanteng ng tubig sa pridyider. Naligo na ito at tinignan muli kung may nakasalubong niya. kulang pa ba sa mga gamit niya.

Mga estudyante ba talaga sila o hustler, isip niya.

Ang mga naggagandahang paruparo ang sumalubong sa kanya paglabas niya ng bahay. Tuwang-tuwa siya nang may dumapo sa Hindi napansin ni Patrick ang bato sa hagdan kaya siya natisod, kanyang ilong. Sinundan siya ng mga ito hanggang sa makasakay at sa harapan pa mismo ng silid! Umalingawngaw ang tawanan siya ng dyip. Ilang beses siyang napakurap ng napansin niya ang ng kanyang mga kaklase. disenyo ng facemask ng katapat niyang pasahero.

“Tahimik! Unang araw pa lang ng klase, ang ingay niyo na,” “‘Yung ibon,” bulong nito. sambit ng guro.

Nasindak siya nang makarating sa tapat ng paaralan. Tumahimik na ang klase at bumalik sa kani-kanilang upuan.

Napapalibutan ng mga naglalakihang puno at iba’t ibang uri Tinulungan naman siya ng isa niyang kaklase at nagpakilala ito ng bulaklak ang gusali. Puno ng palamuti sa katawan ang mga bilang si Cardo. Nanlaki ang mga mata nito. estudyante. Samu’t sari naman ang kulay ng buhok ng iba.

“Uy! Bakit nakakita ka yata ng multo,” sambit ni Cardo.

Napatili naman siya ng may tumapik sa likod nito. Nagpakilala ito bilang si Cardo. Nilibot nila ang gusali hanggang sa tumunog Napabuntong-hininga na lang si Patrick at pumasok sa silid. na ang kampana. Hudyat na magsisimula na ang klase. May napansin na bakas ng dugo si Patrick sa dingding. Parang Sumikip ang kanyang dibdib ng makita ang mga kaklase na nabuhusan ng malamig na tubig si Patrick. Naalala niya ang ibon. nalulunod sa sariling dugo. May mga uod na lumabas kanilang Tinuro niya iyon kay Cardo subalit wala na ang bakas. kaliwang mata kaya naduwal si Patrick.

Isinawalang bahala na lamang ito ni Patrick at sinundan si Cardo “Ayos ka lang Patrick? Gamitin mo muna ang panyo ko,” tanong papasok ng silid. Hindi nila napansin ang ibon na nagmamasid sa ni Cardo. kanila.

“Salam-at-t-t,” sambit ni Patrick.

Nakatulala na lang si Patrick dahil na rin sa kawalan ng tulog.

Nagmamasid siya sa bintana ng nasulyapan niya ang ibon sa Nabitawan ni Patrick ang panyo. Nakaramdam na siya ng kabilang gusali. Halos hindi siya nakahinga kaya itinuon na lang pagkahilo kaya napasubsob siya sa lamesa. niya ang atensyon sa klase.

“Patrick.”

Malapit ng bumigay ang kanyang mga mata.

Napukaw ng mga boses ang atensyon ni Patrick.

Hindi niya namalayan na nakaidlip pala siya. Tinawag siya ng guro ngunit hindi siya nakasagot. Uupo na sana siya ng tinitigan Napalitan ng ibon ang ulo ng kanyang mga kaklase! siya ng mga kaklase.

Sumuka siya ng dugo hanggang sa hindi na siya nakahinga.

Napasigaw siya sa takot.

Tumatawa naman si Cardo sa kanyang kinatatayuan habang “Dugo! Huwag kayong lumapit sakin,” bulalas niya. kinakain ng ibon ang kanyang kaliwang mata. F @abtheflame | abtheflame.net

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@abtheflame | abtheflame.net