ACT ON LINE Vol 17

VOLUME 17 NO. 1

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF ASIAN COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY - BULACAO, TALISAY CITY, CEBU

GRADE 10 DOMINATES

PAGTITIPON

The Grade 10 students of Asian College of Technology received many awards from the Pagtitipon 2019 last August 30 at the Asian College of Technology Bulacao Campus.

“We prepared for this so much to make sure our last Pag-

titipon will be memorable” Tasha Quiachon, a grade 10 student, says.

The received the “Most Innovative” award for the bulletin making contest, “Lakambini ng Pagtitipon” for Dave Deguinon, “Pinaka-agaw Pansin” for Angel Calma,

“Pinakamagaling na Mananayaw” for Chrisha Tadios and “Pinakamagaling na Kasuotan” for Kimberlee Carreon.

“Because I wanted to and I think that costume technically gave me great confidence to stand out wearing that was a great privilege to represent my gender identity and, of course, my community, the LGBT.” Angel Calma, who won “Pinaka-agaw Pansin”, says, “I feel glad that everyone respected unto what I’ve dressed that night and yeah, it was absolutely awesome.”

EJ Agot, third placer, Ryan Edillor, second placer, and Kyle Emphasis, first placer, were also awarded for the “Bayani Lookalike 2019”. Grade 10-Perseverance also received second place for the “Pasiklaban ng Talento”.

“I have always been a fan of Fernando Amorsolo’s works and the artist himself. I thought of painting my favorite work of his; on my dress to bring back the true essence of historical art. It might have looked easy but there was more than a handful of difficulty that played a vital role on how it turned out.” Shannen Verdida, who won “Most Innovative na Kasuotan”, says.

Alyasa Usop, who won “Pinakaayaayang Pagbabago”, says, “From my dad because in my entire life I was never proud of my religion. Ganahan ko

ipakita sa akong papa na proud nako.”

Chrisha Tadios, grade 10 student, says, “It feels good to receive an award in Pagtitipon 2019,” Jesse Nunez, grade 10 student, added, “The Pagtitipon 2019 is much better because we worked hard for it.”

“Na-shock ko kai wala ko nag-expect…Ma awardan or dili, as long as na enjoy nako ang event it’s okay. To be honest, my huling Pagtitipon was not totally prepared. I’m that kind of person na maglisud og balance sa mga buhatonon. All I got was my family to prepare my outfit.(I was schocked becasuse I didn’t expect for anything... Even if I get an award or not, as long as I enjoyed the event, it’s okay. To be honest, my last Pagtitipon was not totally prepared. I’m that kind of person that has a hard time balancing my activities.) And it was also kinda sad because when I was awarded as Lakambini, my family wasn’t there. But I am really grateful and I believe when you have self-control and self-confidence you can really be someone’s temple since your done your part to be a good role model. I don’t want to brag that’s why I don’t post pictures, I’m also the bashful type of person, but during that time I was really different.”

-Donesa Rhae Azcuna

JUNE-SEPTEMBER 2019

NEWS || 2 Exalt Wins Dance Ultra: A Battle for Supremacy

FEATURE|| 6 A President’s Dilemma

FEATURE|| 7 PAMANA: Nagahanon History

SCI. AND TECH.|| 9 Earthquake Readiness of Japan

LAKANDULA AND LAKAMBINI. Joaquin Araneta, Grade-8, and Dave Deguinon, Grade 10, smile for a couple photo. Photo by Jeanille B. Cogtas.

MOST INNOVATIVE. Shannen Mae Verdida flaunts fer self-painted dress inspired by Fernando Amorsolo. Photo by John Gabriel Wagas

SPORTS|| 11 Russian Firepower: Double-Time Champs

NEWS

2

Exalt wins Dance Ultra: A Battle for Supremacy

Last August 25, 2019, Asian College of Technology’s dance troupe called Exalt was reigned as the Grand Ultra Champion in a competition of dance supremacy against different school from different division, the 1st Dance Ultra: Battle for Supremacy Highschool Division held in J Centre Mall, Mandaue against five remaining schools.

The competition has two elimination rounds and the championship. The team joined in the first elimination round of the Dance Ultra where they competed against eight schools.

They proceeded to the second elimination rounds together with the six remaining teams since every round there will be one team who will be eliminated. Exalt consistently topped each elimination rounds, where they placed 2nd place for the first round against eight schools, 1st for the second round against seven schools. The team shown their amazing energy and powerful dance moves during the competition that set a blaze of fire on the stage.

They have garnered an average score of 91.6 not only that, they have grabbed the audience and the judge’s attention making them win the People’s Choice Award.

“Winning the First Place in the Dance Ultra was amazing. Our exhausting practices were paid off for what we have achieved. “said Tasha Quiachon, the only Junior Highschool student of the troupe.

“It feels great most especially we’ve beaten Louisian Cultural Performing Arts.” Added Tasha about one of their strongest competitors

ULTRA CHAMPION. Exalt receives the cash price of 30,000 PHP for winning the Dance Ultra: A Battle of Supremacy final round. Photo by Joshua Philip Haramil

from

Saint Louis College-Cebu.

The team started their training and practices last summer in the month of May until the classes started.

The pressure they felt was very heavy since there are some of their dancers that have schedules that conflicts with their practices, not only that after the first round and the following rounds, they were given one week to finish and produce another set of dance step. Without their ever-dynamic

ACT to face PACUCOA Level 2

Asian College of Technology will undertake PACUCOA Level two accreditation on February 2019.

The school has been going through all preparations as the said visit has no specific day since it is supposed to be a surprise visit.

The said visit will already focus on Instruction which mostly requires production of research outputs.

Jeanille Cogtas, Junior High School faculty, said that she, together with the rest of the JHS teachers have been really busy working with the completion of research journals which were written out of the results of the JHS students’ researches.

The research journal is one of the recommendations which is dependent on student research outputs.

Loudelyn Venanzuela and Mylyn Beringuela, both JHS teachers, were the major writers of the research journal.

Cogtas on the other hand would be focusing on the form, grammar and the layout for printing.

The arrival of the new Vice-Pres-

Sr. Memorial National High SchoolSelection Girls 2nd Runner Up – Arcelo Memorial National High School- Dauntless Crew 1st Runner Up – Saint Louis College Results: 5th Runner Up- Cabangahan National – Cebu- Louisian Cultural Performing Arts High School- Extreme Movers Champion – Asian College of Tech4th Runner Up – University of San nology – Bulacao- Exalt Jose- Recoletos Baby Jaguars -Mary Chrisha E. Tadios 3rd Runner Up – Don Sergio Osmena widen your knowledge of dance styles.

This will really help you in becoming a great dancer that has a wide scope of dance styles.” Tasha Quiachon said.

Kids, teens brave fire control drills

ident for Academics, Dr. Junrel P. Zarco, who himself is a PACUCOA accreditor was very timely.

Zarco has proven to be very organized and calm even when it comes to the preparations according to Jacqueline Sampaga, JHS faculty, as she relayed her observations.

Such is a leap from level one, “We are working hard to make sure we surpass this stage with flying colors of course.”, Ms. Niña Alilin, school principal said.

Floramae Arain, JHS Moderator, said that she is really confident that the school is going to pull off with the help Zarco has contributed.

The teachers on the other hand have been making all necessary preparations since summer and now they are working on the fulfillment of the said plans.

The announcement PUTTING OUT FIRE. Aaron Campos handling the fire extinguisher, aiming at a burning barrel filled with gasofor passing the first level was line. Photo by Edwina Liz Tabay. given last October 9, 2018.

Kids and teens of Asian about different disasters and calam- Anne Tan, a junior high school stu-Jude Francis Tadios College of Technology attended a di- ities that the Philippines have faced dent, “I think I am prepared for disassaster prevention seminar and par- and how to protect one’s self in surviv- ters that happens in school, but when at ticipated in fire control drills last ing these disasters especially with fire. home I am still adjusting and learning.”

July 12 at Asian College of TechIt then proceeded to the Aaron Campos, an elemennology Bulacao Campus grounds demonstration of putting out a fire us- tary student, said, “I was scared, but gory four storms with 130 mph winds. to let the students and school ing a damp cloth, fire extinguisher and at the same time excited. I learned As stated by Gibbens, staff be prepared for any disaster. a hose. Different students and staffs how to properly use the fire extinThe Bureau of Fire Pro- volunteered to put the fires out by guisher and I think I am prepared for Philip Klotzbach, a meteorologist tection of Talisay City division themselves. The seminar then closed disaster that may happen in school.” at Colorado State University, said, was invited to conduct a semi- off with the giving of certificate to IDK The school conducted their “Hurricanes move like pebbles in nar about disaster preparedness. WHO for conducting the seminar fire drill last July 31 and the school a stream,” he says, ““If the winds The seminar was headed by “The seminar and the received a score of nine points at mid-level are weak, there’s not Fire Marshall Figarido of the BFP. demonstration was fun and I out of then during the said drill. much to push the storm along.”

The seminar started off with a lecture had learned something,” says HURRICANE DORIAN||Page 3 -Donesa Rhae Azcuna

Hurricane Dorian Strikes Bahamas As it hits Bahamas, Category three Hurricane Dorian is expected to land in Florida on September 3.

According to Sarah Gibbens the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are predicting that Dorian will hit the central east coast of Florida at Cate-

choreographers, Lander Largo, Tasha Quiachon, Jorge Borlasa and Dale Siao, it wouldn’t be made possible.

Ms. Merry Joice Lagarbe, the dance troupe moderator was thankful to the success and support they have received especially through their sleepless nights and restless days they have spent to perfect their dance routine.

“If you love dancing, then pursue it. Let yourself be exposed to dance workshops and competitions to

NEWS

3

AMAZON FIRE OUTBREAKS

The Amazon fire outbreaks had already reached 2,000 last August 31 at the Amazon Rainforest.

According to Dan Defrancesco, Brazilian National Space Research Institute (INPE) published a satellite date showing roughly 2,000 new fire outbreaks in the Amazon.

Francesco also stated that INPE has recorded 51.9% of Amazon’s fire outbreaks of the year.

In the last official count, 76,000 fires were burning across the Brazilian Amazon according to Alejandra Borunda.

According to Matt Sandy, Sebastian Liste, a documentary photographer, said, “Everyone is asking what is going on” He says, “All the national parks here are burning.”

August is the burning season of Amazon as stated by Sandy.

According to Alejandra Borunda, Ruth Defries, an expert on sustainable development at Columbia University, said, “What we’re seeing now, the uproar and alarm— it’s not just that fire numbers are high, but that it’s a reversal of that effective policy that was in place,” Matt Sandy stated preliminary statistics indicate Amazon’s deforestation has risen by 70%.

Alejandra Borunda stated that Ane Alencar, the director of science at the Amazon Environmental Research Institute, said, “The majority of the fires we’re seeing now are because of deforestation,” she

SMOKE AND ASHES. Smoke rises up from forest fires in the municipality of Candeias do Jamari in Brazil. Photo retrieved from Getty Images. says. “It’s crazy. We reduced deforestation by almost 65 percent in the past. We proved that we could do that.

And now we’re going backwards.”

According to Borunda, Doug Morton, the chief of the Biospheric Sciences Laboratory at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, said, ““Everyone is on the watch now for 2019 to develop into an extreme fire year,” he says, “because of the economic pres-

Hurricane Dorian from page 1

As stated by Gibbens, Philip Klotzbach, a meteorologist at Colorado State University, said, “Hurricanes move like pebbles in a stream,” he says, ““If the winds at mid-level are weak, there’s not much to push the storm along.”

In the 2 A.M bulletin of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Dorian will “move dangerously close to the Florida east coast” according to Jason Samenow.

As of its 3 A.M bulletin, the storm was stalled over the Grand Bahamas Island according to Samenow.

According to Samenow, the National Weather Service office in Melbourne, Fla., wrote, “The threat of damaging winds and life-threatening storm surge remains high,” They wrote, “There will be considerable impacts and damage to coastal areas, with at least some effects felt inland as well!”

The National Hurricane Center also wrote, “Regardless of the details of the intensity forecast, the bottom line is that Dorian is expected to remain a powerful hurricane as it tracks very near the east coast of the U.S. from Florida to North Carolina during the next few days,” as stated by Samenow.

As of Friday morning, Category two hit the Caribbean towards the northern Bahamas according to Sarah Gibbens.

“Pretty much anywhere from Florida to North Carolina could get it,” says Philip Klotzbach, a meteorologist at Colorado State University, said according to Gibbens.

According to an associated press at Los Angeles Times, the storm’s winds and floodwaters severely damaged thousands of homes, hospitals and trapped people in their attics.

According to the associated press, “We are in the midst of a historic tragedy in parts of our northern Bahamas,” Bahamian Prime Minister Hubert Minnis said at a news conference in Nassau.

According to the associated press, “This is a life changing storm. ... It feels like something out of a movie,” Chris Pannerman told CNN. “When we were trapped in a bathroom, the whole building was shaking. I was sitting against the wall and I can feel the pressure entering and pushing the wall on my back.”

According to Holly Yan, Darran Simon and Taylor Barnes the coast guard said more than 20 cutters were on standby in Key West, Florida ready to respond to the Bahamad and the Carribean.

According to Yan, Simon and Barnes, “It’s total devastation. It’s decimated. Apocalyptic. It looks like a bomb went off,” said Lia Head-Rigby, who helps run a local hurricane relief organization and flew over the Bahamas’ hard-hit Abaco Islands.

“It’s not rebuilding something that was there; we have to start again.”

Over two million people of the coast in Florida, Georgia and North and South Carolina were told to evacuate according to Yan, Simon and Barnes.

As stated by Yan, Simon and Barnes, Red Cross spokesman Matthew Cochrane said more than 13,000 houses on Grand Bahamas were believed to be damaged.

Hurricane Dorian lost one person dead in its wake in Puerto Rico according to Yan, Simon and Barnes.

According to Yan, Simon and Barnes, “If it comes, it comes. You know, God always provides, y’all,” Sammye Wooded said.

-Donesa Rhae Azcuna

sures being applied across the region as well as developing drought conditions that could instigate extreme fire risk.”

Borunda also stated, Morton said, “These fires are ecologically devastating,” he says. “Standing fire in the Amazon doesn’t serve anyone.”

Majority of the fires are set by farmers on purpose to make room for their crops and pasteurs as stated by Dan Defrancesco.

Defrancesco also indigenous people had their land disappear.

French president, Emmanuel Macron, said Amazon produces 20% of the world’s oxygen as stated by France Lopez.

According to Lopez, Philippe Ciais, a researcher of the Laboratoire des Sciences du Climat et de l’Environnement (LSCE), said, “Saying that the Amasaid seen

zon produces 20% of our oxygen is a bit exaggerated, it’s more like 10 to 12% because the photosynthesis generated in the oceans also contributes to the planet’s oxygen production.”

“Today’s ecosystems contribute very little to oxygen in the atmosphere. Most of this oxygen comes from organic matter buried in our soil over billions of years,” said Neal Blair, professor of environmental engineering at Northwestern University according to Lopez.

Lopez also stated that Jérôme Chave, researcher at the Biodiversity Evolution Laboratory in Toulouse, said, “The rainforest absorbs about 15% of the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. This is really fundamental because if it didn’t exist, this carbon dioxide would remain in the atmosphere and climate would change at a faster pace,” he says, “If the Amazon were deforested, not only would these carbon drains be lost, but it would also become a source of CO2 for the atmosphere.”

Jair Bolsonaro, Brazilian president, said that Brazil would accept US$20 million in aid according to Dan Defrancesco.

According to Matt Sandy, Bolsonaro ordered the army to the state after an international outsry and had mobilized the country’s military to tackle the flames and issued a decree banning fires in the Amazon for 60 days.

-Donesa Rhae Azcuna

Hong Kong Protesters Block Airport

FIGHTING FOR REEDOM. Protesters assemble in the bus terminal of Hong Kong International Airport last Sempember 1. Photo by Lillian Suwanrumpha. Retrieved from AFP.

Hong Kong protesters had gathered and blocked the airport to stop airport activities last September one at the Hong Kong International Airport.

Protesters had already targeted the airport three weeks ago.

They had blocked roads in the city with burning barricades and tried to enter the terminal building, but were stopped by the riot police.

They had also blocked bus activities at the airport and the Mass Transit Railway suspended train services to the airport.

Planes were taking off and landing, but with delays and at least 26 flights from Hong Kong and 17 to the city had been suspended.

Passengers had to walk to the terminal.

“We have no idea how to leave.

We’re stuck.” A masked protester says.

Live warning shots were fired into the air and tear gas and water common used to disperse protesters.

Protesters wielded umbrellas and

wore gas masks to protect themselves from possible teargas fired by police.

“Fight for freedom! Stand with Hong Kong!” Protesters shouted.

“We plan to disrupt activity at the airport to draw attention to what the government and the police are doing to us,” 20 – year – old protester says, “If we disrupt the airport, more foreigners will read the news about Hong Kong.”

According to Felix Tam and Marius Zaharia every night at 10 p.m, Hong Kong neighborhoods and university dorms echo with pro-democracy and anti- government chant.

“Some people may think it’s naive,” said Torres Fong, 22, a Hong Kong Baptist University student who joins the shouting from his dorm room every night, “I think its value is far higher. It shows how Hong Kongers are united in this movement and how the spirit is spread across every district.” according to Tam and Zaharia.

As stated by Tam and Zaharia, Torres Fong also added, “We all live

in a tense political atmosphere. Shouting is a way to let out steam and keeps us focused on our core demands.”

The shouting, heard across the territory, is often interactive according to Tam and Zaharia.

According to Tam and Zaharia, “It’s very touching,” said Alice Lo, a 24-year-old web designer who lives with her mother in the Hang Hau neighborhood, she continued, “I’ve lived here for two years and never had time to meet my neighbors. I’m glad to know they are proud Hong Kongers who want freedom and democracy. It shows we’re united.”

On the other hand, according to Holmes Chan at 8 a.m, around 60 people gathered outside Confucian Tai Shing Ho Kwok Pui Chun College in Tai Po in support of the class boycott.

According to Chan the police spokesperson denied that an officer had tackled the student, only saying that police “had the responsibility” to chase after those who are fleeing and that the ground was wet and the officer and the student “both slipped and fell,” he added.

Hong Kong’s class boycott was met with police action for the second day in a row on Tuesday according to Chan.

As stated by Chan, Apple Daily stated that at least four students were stopped and searched before being allowed to leave.

“It’s not that I didn’t arrange a location for you. But you say, you want a specific place… This isn’t your freedom; you never had it, why do you think you have it now?”

Leung Chau-wan, the principal, was heard saying according to Chan.

-Donesa Rhae Azcuna

EDITORIAL

4

EDITORIAL

DOES DIGONG FEAR CHINA? Mobile and Computer Games Addiction

Our

president, Rodrigo “Digong” Duterte has been facing the issue of territorial disputes over the South China Sea. Although the problem has been cleared, the question is: does the president fear what lies in store for our country in the future? As Duterte departed to Thailand to attend for a summit with Southeast Asian leaders on June 21, 2019, he said that the issue is an open “confrontation”. He also stated that he isn’t afraid of China but is afraid that we might turn out to be helpless and just get wiped out. Duterte is also ready to go all out if China will continue to cross the red line as they already did. If they also extract our national resources in the West Philippine Sea-South China Sea, he will go to war, said Foreign Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano.

Through the years, countless arguments had been done between China and Philippines with both countries endeavoring to take claim on the West Philippine Sea. Despite many negotiations and great plans upon taking measures about rights, the countries remain resistant to succumb.

It is quite alarming to hear that a war is about to break if there is no end to this problem.

With China having great forces, chances of winning for Philippines is small. But should President Rodrigo Duterte fret?

As the leader of the country, to have fear for China, this will be a cause for Philippines to crumble when citizens put their trust to a leader that they believed is great. While China and Philippines are persistent in conquering West Philip-

pine Sea, it is obvious that China has greater advantage.

What China has done to our country is a test of our administration’s ability on how they are able to respond with the issue. We need to propel and adjust to situations we have the inability to deal with so our country will be prepared with whatever will come to us. If boundaries are set, we need to follow them. In our president’s case, it is up to him whether or not, he can find a way to clear this issue as if it didn’t happen between the two neighboring countries. Duterte is willing to do everything for our country and for the greater good, he actually confronted Chinese President Xi Jinping. Duterte lauded the “expanding” cooperation in defense and security between the two countries.

As long as the boundaries set are respected and followed, Duterte will clear the situation.

As a realist, Duterte is aware that Philippines would never make it. He is checking our military capabilities before he makes any decision that would incriminate the security of the republic (PH). US being an ally cannot retaliate with Duterte’s treatment with China because US and Philippines has defense agreement.

It’s just that with a single signal from China’s leader, China can always attack Philippines with their supersonic bombs that is designated to reach Luzon (Manila). With all this in mind, the president is playing his role smartly. He is not dependent about the Philippines defense agreement that American Navy will fight a defensive

war in behalf of Philippines.

When it comes to war, it is very expensive based on history. Duterte knows where and what it could get. Even with defense agreement, he knows that something in return would be asked. His risks are calculated properly for he has leverage against allied countries specifically us. Duterte mentioned the need for “trust and respect” and “mutual benefit” as defining characteristics of the two countries’ relationship. He does not fear whatever happens. He loves China but believes that it isn’t right to claim a whole ocean. As we progress as a country and as the people living in it, we must support and send our moral support to our president in any way possible.

Duterte believes that we should all follow the law and he will fight for us until our last breath.

Mobiles and computers are devices that could help us in our daily lives but it could also help us destroy our health slowly without knowing it. Games are the applications that could entertain us and help us forget problems for a minute but playing games non-stop could lead to addiction not addiction on drugs but addiction to games. Addiction is like being obsessed with something that when somebody disturbs you, you’ll get annoyed and lose your control of yourself. Mobiles and computers have radiation that could affect our health tat could lead to illnesses that will make you regret everything. Time is something that we ca’t control but the only thing we can do is to manage everything cause we’re not a superhuman who could handle anything.

Mobile and computer games should be blocked on weekdays especially to minor because they’re easily to be tempted and they can’t control their time. If this will be implemented, I’m pretty sure parents will be so happy because their children would have a time to prioritize their selves.

Children must discover things about their surroundings and this is not for children only but to everyone so that all of us will be oriented and aware of the consequences of our actions.

Approximately there are 5 to 10% who are mobile and computer game addicts according to (www.techaddiction.ca).Overuse of mobile gadgets hampers student’s ability to study and sleep (www.japantimes.co.sp).

Students who spend several hours each day staring at their mobile phones or smartphones tend to change their sleeping habits. There’s 78% percent teenagers who use electronic devices including TVs, game consoles, mobile phones and computers. There’s 22% percent who don’t use gadgets according to Shusuke Munai. Based on the psychologist that violent games could change the behavior of a certain person. Computer and mobile games could entertain a person but, too much, to the point he/she can’t manage his/ her things is baleful for his/her future.

Gadgets are useful nowadays especially to to this generation because one of the reasons is when we are

War on Drugs

Drugs is often heard in the news. People who use and sell drugs have become notorious. Nowadays, teenagers are using drugs; We can’t deny the fact that the minors are already influenced by it. “War on drugs” should be stopped, the campaign “Oplan Tokhang” killed a lot of people. It already affects our country. Our President, Rodrigo Roa Duterte should wake up and be enlightened of what is happening. Be worry of the power given to the police. Some police officers abused the power to the extent that they think high of themselves. I agreed about the campaign at first but to think that this is getting out of hand is not good anymore. President Duterte help a lot but killing and not listening to the people, it’s useless.

People are scared already because of this “War on drugs” campaign. They are scared that someone might frame them up because of the grudges that the person holds. There’s a possibility that they can encounter a situation where drugs is involve. A 17-year old student was killed by the police during Tokhang-related incident in Caloocan (Mong Palatino, The Diplomat 2017). As seen on the CCTV he was being dragged by the police which convinced people that the Tokhang Operation killed another innocent person. This can cause netizens and people being angry and scared for their lives. Duterte must not give too much power to the police men.

Oplan Tokhang involves extreme killing and the killing of minors. 54 children have been killed already since 2016. The Catholic Church issued a strong statement against drug-related killing. Police also intensified the Tokhang Operation and produced a record of killing. Infact they killed 32 drug suspects in Bulacan Province and 26 in Manila (Mong Palatino, The Diplomat 2017).

Our President even praised the Operation by saying “Thirty two were killed in a massive raid. If we could kill 32 everyday, then we could reduce what ails this country” The National Police estimated that more than 6,000 were killed since July 1, 2016. They said that they shoot people for ‘self-defense’ You can shoot elsewhere not by killing them. He recently boasted of killing suspects by himself.

Duterte is destroying our image internationally. People who speaks up their negative opinion about his campaign was threaten. President Roa Duterte threatened to kill human right activists because they criticize his campaign. At a press conference he responded to one question by saying “Just because you’re a journalist you are not exempted from assassination” (Robert Muggah, The Guardian 2017). Who wouldn’t be discouraged? He threatened someone’s life.

A lot of people who lives abroad must think negatively about the Philippines now. Duterte also threatened to withdraw from the UN in response to criticism of his rug war. The UN special rapporteur on extrajudicial killings cancelled a visit to the country after the apply unprecedented conditions on her visit.

Bolder action is already needed. From the reasons stated above, this can be a proper excuse to stop “War on drugs”. This is getting out of hand, everything is getting worst. The President should be enlightened and review his doings because not all of the accused are drug users and dealers. Oplan Tokhang itself is the problem, war on drugs need to stop for it harmed people severely.

5 bored, we play games on our gadgets to entertain us but it could be a source of problems such as illnesses specifically fever, headache, poor eyesight, sore eyes and many more to mention.

The most at risk for computer game addiction are males because there’s a higher population of males playing games or computer games and get addicted to it (techaddiction.com).

Because of this kind of addiction, the gamer often isolates him/herself from others, ignoring more important responsibilities , and is often obsessed with obtaining higher status/ranking/ achievements in his/her favorite computer game/s. Computer game addiction or mobile game addiction often leads to deterioration in family relationship. The addicted players initially deny that a problem exists, try to hide how much he/she plays, and accuse the other of trying to control his/her life.

The reason that could lead to conflicts.

In order to prevent this kind of addiction, you should have time management to do your responsibilities. Think of the consequences if you continue your habits which are not beneficial to your health and family. Being computer or mobile games addicted is not the best way to cure anxiety, depression, anger and etc. You must control it or should I say, you must have the willingness to cure those disorder not just by depending on silly mobile and computer games. If you’re willing to do such thing you can achieve it without any question on your mind. It’s okay to play computer games or mobiles games as long as you know your limitation and what is good for you.

Bullying? An act that bullies can’t even resist at. This could be a word that people are afraid of. Cyber bullying is a form of violence that is rampant among teens who have moved away from physical assault to modern style through social media, emails, chats, comments or even images that causes emotional harm towards a certain person. It’s also a form of digital abuse, spreading of lies, online disrespect and violation of trust. Cyber bullying can be done either publicly or privately. Bullies may act alone or in groups. Parents and educators should see cyber bullying in action from their child or even to their students but sadly not all of them can take care of that. One thing the victim could have anxiety which could affect the victim reputation for years to come. Harassment, social media, flaming, exclusion and more are one of the part of cyber bullying. Online threats, most bullies use online harassment to extend the reach of them, bullying behavior form school to online platforms.

Cyber bullying can cause a lot of damages towards to the victim, which can lead to mental disorder, depression or event the worst part losing one’s life. No one wants it to happen. I know for a fact that cyber bullying wouldn’t vanish that easily and each of us should do the first move to have change. According to statistics form socialwork.tulane.edu that around 1 in 3 students suffers bullying through out the academic year.

Cyber bullying victims are 2-9 times more likely to contemplate suicide.

Also 61% of overweight teens have reported being bullied online, which that leads the victim to lose his/her reputation as a human being.

Filipino Language: Existing or Extinct?

The Philippines is a very traditional and cultural country in terms of their practices and cultivation. Language is one thing when we talk about culture. Is it something long gone?

Or is it something that is still there?

We are responsible for anything that may happen to what was built and created for our becoming generation.

Filipinos are abundant and varied when it comes to language.

Based on the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino, there are about 130 existing languages that have been used, close to 40 are considered endangered as speakers are about 8,000 or less and are slowly diminishing since their mother tongues are no longer the language of choice and use. The committee embarked on a landmark project to revitalize and preserve the languages that have a possibility of being nonexistent. As of now, we are currently evolving and have taken the influence of other countries. Their influence has invoked us and created change. By this, we are accustomed to their ways of living. We get simple gestures from what we see such as

dressing up the way they do or simple phrases we use in day-to-day conversations. Those are just a few things in the process we get through. Slowly but surely, a time will come where we’ll forget what was there for us, and we won’t be known as Filipinos anymore.

We’d lose our sense and the historical accomplishments done for our sake.

Often, some Filipinos find it difficult to study the languages they aren’t born of speaking. Because of the difficulty, they aren’t fascinated or don’t have a keen interest in learning the language. As one thing is already diminishing us, our lack of interest adds up more. As the people of this country, we should value and treasure our culture. This isn’t a big task.

Some things are done out of devotion and pride, and it’d be a shame to put all those to waste. Patriotism and nationalism are two important things however, responsibility is another. We will evolve into a strong and astonishing country if we continue to love our culture, our language most importantly and eventually, we will make it.

Cyberbullying

Why do victims choose to be silent?, Is it because of embarrassment, the pressure to be quiet, concerned that no one will believe them, threaten from the bullies or they feel like they deserve it?. All of this are certainly true as stated by experts from verywellfamily.com. Most of the victims can’t even stand for themselves, which sucks the most. They can’t even at least defend themselves those bullies. Victims of cyber bullying an fight back by collecting evidence, protecting their account or even reaching out for help from authorized persons.

As stated from socialwork.tulane.edu that 15% of students admit to being cyber bullied. Victims are like in cage that has been stuck for a long time, that can’t be able to get out cause their being timid or there may be a chance but didn’t take it for being afraid on what’s out their. The thing is the one who have been bullied shouldn’t be intimidated by their bullies. Now a days, kids are seven times more likely to experience cyber bullying from a friend or even on groups.

Parents and educators must be aware of what is going on with their children and they should be their part as the more mature person.

The sad thing is not all parents and educators can’t monitor those who have been bullied form time to time, is it because of work or they just expect that kids will be kids?. As stated from socialwork.tulane.edu that females are two times more likely to be victim of cyber bullied, which parents and educators can’t even take care about. 10% of cyber bullying victim should report to an adult abut getting cyber bullied, which shouldn’t be the act that they do.

To sum up everything, cyber bullying shouldn’t exist in the first place and it’s getting worse and worse every year. Every year damages will always occur or even the worst part, the victim will lose his/ her reputation towards him/herself.

The only mind-set of the bullied is to just commit suicide, which is not right; Just to escape from that massive disaster. Those people who are having a campaign such as Cyber Awareness campaign are the one’s who needs to support from school and even the government. We people, especially those cyber bullied should be grateful to have these kinds of campaigns in order to inform what are those tips or ways on how to face cyber bullying.

FEATURE

6

A PRESIDENT’S DILEMMA

How can someone handle be-

THE SSG PRESIDENT. Angel Calma strikes a pose.

ing an SSG President while also being part of C.A.T Platoon Leader? It seems Angel Kyle D. Calma has the strength to be two. As an SSG President who has duties usually include working with students to resolve problems, informing school administration of ideas emanating from the student body, and managing the student government while also playing the role of being a C.A.T Platoon Leader who helps the students and strictly employs the school rules. Aside from being a student, the SSG President and a CAT Leader, he is also the Peer Facilitator President, the Scrabble Acting Moderator, the Editor-in-Chief in Filipino, the Executive Director for Broadcasting both English and Filipino Category and a Photographer. He is one of the most active students in the institution. A lot of students have known him for being a good leader and an influencer.

However, during the summer of 2019, he had plans of leaving the school due to personal problems. It became a concern to his friends if he would leave.

But thankfully, he has decided to stay and it relieved the bothered friends. Angel Kyle D. Calma has decided to stay because he doesn’t want to run and leave his responsibility. He doesn’t want

to burden someone just because he left and disappeared.

Angel decided to stay because he wants to take responsibility and he is not someone to be trifled. Even though his decision was to transfer, staying at ACT still prevailed. “Well, one thing for sure. I wanted to continue learning with good quality education and with a

lemma. He had mastered the art of time management at a very young age since he was also the President of the Student Pupil Government (SPG) back on his Elementary days. He then was elected as the SPG Public Relations Officer in the whole Division of Talisay after being elected as President in his school.

Even though he faces

“I’ve been through so many games in life.

But I have conquered it.

Fearless, that’s my name.

Remember that.” standard that keeps me going. And ACT gave me that.”

As the year continues to go on, he faces times that are really hard on which area to dwell or on which he should be in. Although this might seem a problem for him, he chooses to see the positive side of this di-

these types of problems and stress as he continues to tread on his student life, he is not willing to give up any title he has earned so far. “Sometimes I thought of giving up because I’ve been into this burden since then. A lot of students criticize me because I’m not

doing my duty well. But realizing the fact that I’m doing a great job because I know myself better than them gives me strength. I can’t just stop anything to please them. Those are not the only people I am trying to only serve. There are still a lot of people who appreciate my hard work.” He expressed.

In the end, he knew that having a state of mind of giving up the title he has worked hard for is not the right answer. He knew what he was entering and now he is proving to everyone that he is fighting to be in that spot. “For days and months, I have been bombarded with lots of matters to arrange and fix, tons of tasks to do every day.

But my heart and mind tells me to do the same thing. If you’ve faced that before, stand up because you’re going to face that again a million times. No matter how many times you’ve made a leader fall, he/she will always stand right back up because he is a leader and he will not lead his members to the down part of life but to lead them to stand back up and fight for life.”

-Vincent Jesse Nunez and Johanna Rose Abellanosa Photo by Tiffany Sta. Cruz

The Faces of Asianista Glam

ACT’s new look started with a big bang. Commercials, billboards, slideshows and more were accustomed. “Extra” is the perfect word to describe it all. ACT had a complete makeover, external and internal.

The faces of this makeover not only do possess the look of an Asianista but also the core values of an Asianista. A stands for Adaptable, S stands for Service-Oriented, I stands for Industrious, A stands Achiever, N stands for Nurturer, I stands for Innovative and Inventive, S stands for Self-Reliant, T stands for Team Player and lastly, A stands for accountable. All those things are possessed by the faces of the Asianista Glam which are students from Grade 10: Mary Chrisha Tadios, Andrew Shannon Lawas, Tasha Kharyl Quiachon, and Kyle Emphasis.

“Being a part of the faces of The Asianista Glam feels so nice because I didn’t expect that I would be chosen as one of the faces. Being a part of

THE VIEW. The facade of the Asian College of Technology Bulacao Campus with Andrew Lawas and Chrisha Tadios pictured on the tarpaulin. Photo by Tiffany Sta. Cruz

it makes me happy and I feel grateful for the opportunity because all of us had the chance to be part of it and I was chosen.

I think I was able to get part in those ads because of how I smile. I just don’t know but the only thing that I know for sure, it’s just meant for me.” Andrew Lawas, one of the models said.

His smile got him the part and each one of us had the chance so being himself did got him a long way. “To the people who would love to have the same role as mine, I would say that just be yourself and wait for the perfect timing because I believe everything has a reason and in God’s will, everything is perfectly planned. It may take too

long but it’s worth waiting for, don’t you think?” he added.

Another model, Chrisha Tadios also said in an interview. “To be a part of the faces of the Asianista Glam is nice. I feel proud of myself and to those people who are part of it. Seeing our faces in the billboard is not something we see every day so it was a bit

embarrassing for me up until now but the feeling of seeing your face there is an amazing experience.” Both have quite opposite feelings but at the end of the day, they had an amazing experience modeling for Asian College of Technology.

To the aspiring models or just some people out there who want to be able to get an opportunity like this, Tasha Quiachon has a dainty but sweet message for all.

“Just be yourself because it can come to you unexpectedly. I myself was shocked until now. The experience is fun too, so if you’re the next Asianista Glam enjoy doing your shoots.”

These people aren’t just fashion models but they are also role models to the growing kids out there. They deserve to be a part of the Faces of Asianista Glam. Just breathe and maybe, just maybe, like them, you will be chosen when you have that confidence to be in your skin – to be yourself.

-Kaye Abellanosa

FEATURE

Abandoned:

Compania Maritima de Cebu

This is an old building that is located along the South Road Propeties(SRP) in Cebu City, it is considered to be one of the heritage sites in Cebu. According to my research, this structure was built in 1910. This was one of the first buildings constructed near the sea port of the city. As years pass by, different names were given to building.

This building was known as Fernandez Building in 1910.

It was named after the Fernandez Hermanos Inc., the company who owned the building, it was founded by brothers Jose and Ramon Fernandez. It was first occupied by the Manila Steamship Company. And in the 1930’s, it was occupied by the Shamrock Hotel, which was owned

by Mike Ryan. This was also where the Shamrock Bakery and Restaurant started. Presently Shamrock is known as one of the top stores of Cebuano delicacies or “pasalubong”. The Shamrock Hotel also gained popularity due to its location near the seaport, and was easily seen by tourists and foreigners for a comfortable stay near the city.

The building was destroyed during World War II. After the war it was rebuilt, and was occupied by Compania Maritima.

This company became successful in sea transportation both passenger and cargo vessels. The company lasted until the 1980’s before they declared bankruptcy. From that moment on the building was abandoned. Before, the company’s name was seen on its front wall. Today, it is not in a good condition, roofless, and the inner walls are damaged. Its roof were damaged because of the tropical typhoon “Ruping” in 1992. On October 26, 2013, the Department of Engineering and Public Works declared the area as off-limits due to the damages inflicted by the earthquake that occured on October 15.

The whole area became a parking lot on 2015. It served as a temporary place for pilgrims of the Sto. Nino coming from nearby provinces during the Sinulog festivities.

In my opinion, the government should give attention to the Compania Maritima which is considered as a beautiful inheritance to our beloved province, Cebu. I hope this would not be an ordinary parking lot and a place for homeless people. I wish that one day it’ll be one of the prime attractions of the city because of its beauty and unique design. By this way, the local government can generate funds, which will provide for the modernization of our province.

-Kylie Antonio bordotshazimu05.blogspot.com

7

PAMANA: Nagahanon History The Spaniards introduced Christianity to the Filipinos. During their regime the Spaniards built churches. That explains why there are still many old churches in the Philippines up until now. One of the few surviving old churches I have seen is the one at Naga; Saint Francis of Asisi Parish. Based on my interview with Dominador Basaya, a catechist, the church was destroyed during World War II and was rebuilt.

The age of this church is over 190 years old! This church is one of the oldest churches in Cebu, this is why we should give importance to this.

The church should be restored for it to be more attractive and to catch the attention of the tourists and so that many people will also pray in the church. According to Dominador Basaya, the church can be renovated but it needs a huge amount of money since the full restoration may cost millions of pesos. Why? Because the church is built using limestone.

Limestone and modern cement has different components which makes it difficult for them to stick together.

That’s why the estimated money is millions for it to be fully renovated.

According to freeman.com, the Naga church was robbed over a hundred thousands of money collections.

The robbers stole money through breaking the window on the treasurer’s office last July 3,2019. Yap, a police officer in Naga city said that the investigation is still on going.

According to Benjie Layug, the bell tower was destroyed during November 25, 1876 due to typhoon.

It has been repaired but was destroyed again in 1942 and was rebuilt in 1974

by Msgr. Cesar Alcoseba. On October 3, 2007, the church was upgraded as an archdiocesan shrine. During World War II, the original bell tower was destroyed and portions of the church were damaged. A new separate bell

tower was built in 1979. According to Dominador Basaya during our interview he said that the Bell tower can’t be renovated because it is not safe. If the Bell tower is renovated it needs to be destroyed for it to be renovated. In my point of view, we really need to renovate the Bell tower even though it needs to be destroyed because the Bell tower adds attraction to tourists.

People use candles to pray, according to Wikipedia these are used and lit for prayer intentions. To “light a candle for someone” indicates one’s intention to say a prayer for another person, and the candle symbolizes that prayer. Compared to other churches, other churches have places for them to light candles and pray while Naga Church doesn’t have any place to light candles, just like the one in the picture. The picture that I have taken has shown that there is only a small place that they could light candles. In

my suggestion they should renovate it in order for them not to get crowded and might have a little bit of privacy.

Another old shrine found in Naga is the Archdiocesan shrine found in St. Francis of Asisi. In this place, the beauty of the shrine couldn’t be seen as it is covered and outshined by the crowding parking area of shrine. In my suggestions they should provide a proper and decent parking area where it doesn’t cover the beauty of the shrine. No tourists would be attracted by a shrine surrounded by variety of vehicles. By providing another proper parking area will make the beauty of the shrine to be seen and to those photographers or selfie lovers, they will find this place “Instagrammable”.

A simple wood could have a meaning and importance, most especially if this piece of object beautifully redefined or designed. A wood carving made by Patascaya back in 2003 is one of good example. The wood carv-

ing is obviously made from wood.

Upon entering the door of the church, turn left and then you will see the wood carvings. When I took a picture of the wood carving, I was amazed because the wood carving is very detailed and precisely made. However, it seems to have not been given that much importance as it just stands by the corner. It may not be part of the old church but it is a good addition to the treasures of the church.

This church is one of the oldest churches in Cebu. And I just want to say, “Attention to all Nagahanons (people of Naga) I want you to take point in this. Be aware. So I’m calling out to all concerned citizens, NGOs and Charitable institutions to give a glimpse and see what you can do to help.” Always remember to take good care of our heritage or “pamana” like this one, Naga City Parish Church.

-Mark Jemzelle B. Cogtas

Pagdaong sa Talisay

As Ray Bradbury once said, “See the world. It’s more fantastic than any dream made or paid for in factories. Ask for no guarantees, ask for no security.” Traveling to different places you haven’t been to, is one way to relieve stress and for you to discover new places. The Philippines is known to be one of the 190+ countries in the world to have breathtaking tourist spots. One of which is the “Pagdaong sa Talisay” which is also known as “Docking in Talisay” located in Talisay City, Cebu.

The statues symbolize US soldiers and 8th US General, Douglas MacArthur (middle), arriving to help the Filipino guerrillas against the Japanese during World War 2. This happened on the 26th of March 1945.

This moment was the turning point on securing this ground and freed Cebu from the hands of the Japanese.

When you visit this place you can also find a Plaza just across the shrine, this place is used for you to unwind, talk with your friends, relax, play, eat, and more. It has a big space which is mostly used for program or events such as Zumbas.

But aside from the beauty, that you can see in this place, there are also

some areas which have plenty of trashes that are scattered and not thrown properly by the locals and tourists.

Tourist spots are usually a common place to earn a livelihood and income for people and if the place is inconvenient and untidy, people would not favor going to that certain place. With these trashes scattering around, it is a grave threat to the environment especially because of the animals inhabiting the place. This is common in beach areas and since the Philippines is a spot for tranquil and beautiful beaches, the causes of recklessness and lack of self-discipline will not only affect a person’s livelihood, but the condition of marine animals.

We must take care of the “Pagdaong sa Talisay” because it is a heritage site full of history that makes us remember of the past. If we continue to destroy this bit by bit, it will be long gone and there will be no remnants of this memorable event.

For this place to be recognized by people all over the world, a little help by the people who visit this place such as throwing your trashes properly is more than enough. We should at least have self - discipline,

STATUE OF HISTORY. A view of the statues of US soldiers and Douglas McArthur (Middle). Photo by Alexis Balongag

if you can’t see any trash bins nearby it is better if you keep your trash then throw it when you arrive at home, instead of just littering anywhere and waiting for someone to pick it up for you. If we help one another we can achieve our expectations. As the saying goes “Nothing is impossible, the word itself says I’m possible”.

-Alexis Balongag alexisbalongag.blogspot.com

Plaza. Photo by Alexis Balongag

FEATURE

8

RAMAYANA: STORY AND CULTURE Ramayana is an ancient Indian epic poem written by Valmiki. In the modern generation, it had various versions coming from movies and plays. The story talks about Rama’s exile to the forest of Dandak. How he had saved his wife, Sita from the monster king, Ravan is also narrated here.

This essay will talk about the relations of the story and the Indian history, cultures and traditions. It will also talk about the connections of modern traditions, cultures and places in India. This will also include my reactions to traditions and cultures.

In the story, the Kingdom of Kosalas and the Videhas had powerful races. They made their friendly bond in a contest held which united the two kingdoms. According to Wikipedia, The Kingdom of Kosala was an ancient Indian kingdom. It has two capitals, Shravasti and Ayodhya, which is believed to be the birthplace of Rama.

It has the language of Sanskrit and religions such as Buddhism and Jainism.

The kingdom of Videhas, on the other hand, was an ancient kingdom in Late Vedic India which rose to prominence under King Janaka. It has Janakpur as its capital, which is the center for religious and cultural tourism. It still has Sanskrit as its language and has the religion of Vedic Hinduism.

In the next part of the story, Sita, the daughter of Janak, was to be wedded of whoever wins the archery contest. Rama, the son of Dasa-ratha, had won the contest and was decided to become king of the Videhas. In the history of Indian marriages, arranged marriage is a tradition in the societies of the Indian subcontinent, and con-

tinues to account for an overwhelming majority of marriages in the Indian subcontinent. Arranged marriage tradition lacks any official legal recognition or support, the institution has proved to be “surprisingly robust”.

One of the wedding systems in India is the Swayamvara, which is the method used in Ramayana. This method was a practice of choosing a husband, from among a list of suitors, by a girl of marriageable age. In Sanskrit, Swayam means ‘self’ and Vara means ‘groom’. In my opinion, this tradition should stop. I respect parents who only want the best for their daughters, but their daughters also have a life. They should know how to be independent in this kind of situation. The parents are not the getting married, but it’s their children. They should also learn how to respect, accept and support their child’s wishes and decisions, in that way they can provide the best thing for their children.

Rama, together with Sita and Lakshman, was exiled to Dandak forest. They crossed the Ganges River and into the wilderness until they reached the hermitage of Valmiki. The Dandak forest is originally called Dandaka or Dandakaranya. In Sanskrit, Aranya means “forest”. The forest was a location of the Danda Kingdom, which is a region frequently mentioned in Indian mythology. The Danda Kingdom has a stronghold of the Rakshasa tribes. Ganges River, also known as Ganga, is a trans-boundary river of Asia which flows through the nations of India and Bangladesh. Valmiki is celebrated as the harbinger-poet in Sanskrit literature. Ramayana is

attributed to him, based on the attribution in the text itself. Ramayana is originally written by Valmiki. Before Ramayana was written, once when he was strolling in the silent forest enjoying nature, a couple of birds were singing on the tree happily. A hunter shot at the female bird which fell down dead causing agony to its partner. Moved by this pitiable sight, Valmiki cursed the hunter for causing the grave situation. Meanwhile, Lord Brahma appeared in front of him and said he need not worry due to his act since it was divinely inspired by him.

It was destined that Valmiki should compose the great epic of Ramayana, the story of Sri Rama’s noble life and accomplishments on this earth.

Bharat, Rama’s brother, went to the forest and find him. When he reached to Rama he persuaded Rama to come back to Kosalas and rule, but Rama refused. Instead, Bharat took Rama’s slippers and put it on the throne to symbolize Rama’s ruling.

Slippers represent the hero’s indifference to life outside his home. But they also symbolize the domestic space, the feeling of leaving the worries of the world at the door, and the safety and comfort that only one’s abode can offer. Ancient Indian kings usually come from empires and tribes like, King Sudās who was an Indo-Aryan tribal king of the Bhāratas during the main or middle Rigvedic period.

The peaceful life of Rama and Sita in the forest was disrupted by Rakshna, a princess. Rama refused her scorn and gave Lakshman instead, but his brother also refused. Revengeful, Rakshna went to her brother, Rav-

How To Deal With a Judgemental Society Society, by definition, is composed of people working together for a common purpose. But what if people, who are supposed to be your companion in making a better society, hold grudges and impose false accusations against you?

How do you succeed in sustaining and developing a stable society?

How do you deal with people like them, the judgmental people?

- Tell your oppositions, suggestions and opinions to communicate better and to avoid group conflicts. Be honest in a way that could not offend someone.

5.) Make their judgments your motivation to do better - If they continue to judge, just make their opinions your motivation to be better. They might sound discouraging, but always think of a way to turn them into something positive.

6.) If they continue to judge you, don’t mind and just continue doing what’s right for you and for the society.

Here’s how: - Their opinions won’t make 1.) Befriend them you any better.

- Know about their back- BEING POINTED AT. A girl being pointed at by people, indicating They would just about ground to under- that they are judging her. Photo retrieved from www.christianheadlines.com ramble your bad side. Igstand where they nore their words came from. Don’t seek for bad relationships with people 4.) Share ideas, thoughts and expe- and let it pass through your other ear as long as you have done good and as much as possible, try to main- riences - Share things with the group deeds for yourself and the society. tain a good relationship with them. to know what you’re thinking and to A person’s judgment about you let them understand your past and 2.) Talk about each others’ experiences. It’s always a good thing doesn’t make you who you are. strengths and weaknesses - Accept their flaws and never to communicate and share ideas with People’s judgments are proof that make it an advantage to judge them people so that you can maintain a people are jealous of who you are to avoid conflicts within each other. good relationship. Although some- and what you have. If you let this Try to be open-minded and consid- times, you may have a fight with each affect you, you may doubt yourerate of people’s ideas and thoughts. other, it is always better to talk it out self and maybe live for others’ exwith them instead of holding a grudge. pectations, which you shouldn’t.

-Donesa Rhae Azcuna 3.) Be honest with the group

an, the monster king, to ask for help.

Ravan, or Ravana in real life, is also worshipped by 79.8% of Hindus in some part of the India, Sri Lanka and Bali (Indonesia). He is considered to be the most revered devotee of Shiva.

The story ends with Rama saving Sita. Then, Rama, Sita and Lakshman travelled though India with an aerial car. An aerial car is now known as boats, or vehicles that transport in water. In this, Rama and Sita’s devotion to each other, for me, are what people dream of their relationships. Having Sita as a loyal partner when she was kidnapped is every spouse’s dream to their other halves, while having Rama as a strong and bold husband is every wife’s dream in a marriage. Their love story is not a typical one. We can rarely see these types of relationships and these kinds of relationships should be a highly recommended model for all relationships out there.

The story was connected with the traditions of the ancient Indian subcontinent. There are places in the modern generation that are marked as a symbol of Rama’s life, or exile. Like, the hermitage of Valmiki was now also addressed as Rama’s Country. The monster king, Ravan was now praised and worshipped because of his similar nature and char-

PAST AND PRESENT. A notable place in the story and its condition in present. acter with Shiva, one of the principal deities of Hinduism. Thus, the Indian epics often relate to the country’s culture, tradition and history.

-Donesa Rhae Azcuna www.loqueseawhats.blogspot.com

ADVISER’S DESK JEANILLE B. COGTAS

TYPES OF LEADERS

The world has already grown old enough to enumerate countless leaders who ran amok the universe causing harm to many. There are numerous leaders who tiptoed thus creating blitzkriegs to defeat those who’ve caused such harm. However, leaders who do nothing are not leaders at all. This makes me wonder at times whether or not I should be a leader.

You can’t say I’m not old enough to say how to lead nor say I haven’t led enough to comment on leadership. But I have grown enough to witness leaders and how difficult their job is. I have been “led” enough to have a say on this. My first leadership was way back in high school, actually my freshmen years. I was pushed to commandeer my team because if I failed, I would get a he’ll lot of “verbal beating”. My question was always “HOW AM I TO DO THIS?” Now that I’ve grown of age the question changed to, “DOES IT HAVE TO BE ME? Quite far fetched, you make think. Not necessarily folks. My younger self asked “HOW AM I TO DO THIS?” because there are consequences to failure and such consequences are directly pointed at me.

As a defense mechanism, I did my best because I don’t want to fail. The older me ask “DOES IT HAVE TO BE ME?” simply because asking the first question isn’t much of a help. I realized I was asking the wrong one.

“DOES IT HAVE TO BE ME? This question is relative to a lot more but the most important of all is, “IS THIS ALL ABOUT ME?” I wonder.

The question may even just question yourself in comparison with others as options for the role. But putting the stress on ME makes the difference.

Does leadership have to mean the leader? Isn’t it not about “leading” at all? I always wonder how many leaders still ask my first question. You may also think only the incompetent ones ask my second. You see, asking my first question simply implies EGOISM. You are doing the job for your self ’s sake and not the team’s. Your actions as a leader is founded on self-interest. The sad truth is you are always convinced that your actions are for the benefit of your team, your subordinates. The team is just your cover-up but the real picture paints your own ego. You who are the face of your team.

You who should not be put to shame when the team fails. You who grabs the team’s glory with both hands while sticking your name on it. You who could just humiliate them in front of many because you think you can. YOU. Why ask my second question? Rather, when to ask it? You only ask, “DOES IT HAVE TO BE ME?” when you are not so full of yourself. When you realize that leadership is not about YOU as the leader. It is about all of you in the TEAM. This doesn’t mean that you have no regard for consequences, of course you have, however you are more focused on NOW and face the consequences (good or bad) together. You create a circle where everyone plays a role not a pyramid putting YOU on top.

I am not a leader if your concept is to put me atop the PYRAMID. If you tell me that I be a leader to complete the CIRCLE then I can be. Give me a ROLE not a POSITION.

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

9

The Earthquake Readiness of Japan

Japan is a country that has experienced more than its fair share of natural disasters. With that, they’ve become one of the best-prepared nations on earth. When you compare the number of disasters that have hit the nation, plus the population density, and compare it to the fatality rate, the modern numbers are actually surprisingly small. The ability to innovate, invest, educate, and learn from past mistakes has made Japan the most earthquake-ready country in the world (Dayman, 2018).

In Japanese Disaster Management System, a Minister of State for Disaster Management is appointed to the Cabinet and the Disaster Management Bureau plans the basic policy on disaster management and plans and makes overall coordination in response to large-scale disasters. In normal times, Ministers of State, representatives of relevant organizations and experts from the Central Disaster Management Council in the Cabinet Office discuss important matters such as the development of national disaster management plans and basic policies and take charge of promoting comprehensive disaster countermeasures by indicating a major policy.

The Japanese government focuses on providing its people with sufficient knowledge about earthquakes and tsunamis. Training sessions and exhibitions about disaster prevention are regularly held just like conferences for evacuation area construction. It starts with the pre-kindergarten children who have to regularly participate in natural disaster drills. All Japanese students know that whenever an earthquake comes they are not allowed to panic, instead, they should protect their head, escape in an orderly way, and absolutely no rush or behave disorderly.

On the other hand, when

an earthquake does occur, the risk to your home depends on many different factors such as the ground itself, the shape of the land, and building density among others. For the past few years, fortunately, all buildings in Japan are required to have an earthquake-resistant structure, which means that new construction can only be approved through rigorous compliance with earthquake-proof standards set by law. Also, these laws apply to other structures like schools and office buildings. It is said that around 87% of the buildings in Tokyo can withstand earthquakes.

Japan is one of the most prone countries in the Pacific Ring of Fire to feel earthquakes and as years passed by, earthquakes have been a common occurrence in the region.

With that, they’ve become more prepared as to what might happen in the future. Innovatively, they make policies and create technological gadgets as help during calamities. One of which is putting an alert to their smartphones during earthquakes/tsunami.

But just like Japan, the Philippines had also experienced a lot of natural phenomena that caused several damages and frightful effect.

However, unlike Japan, Philippines is not that prepared enough to calamities that might come. Although there are TV and radio reports that have help people to be updated, they tend to not listen to it and that caused trauma to their lives. The Philippines might have a lot of drills that have given the citizen knowledge on what to do during calamities but still, others think that the drills aren’t necessary or some kind of a joke. Some people also do things that they think might save them – that’s actually their pride and lack of discipline.

People living in fault lines and not listening to safety measures

How about India?

The Republic of India is a country that lies on the Indian Plate, a major tectonic plate that is located on the eastern hemisphere, it is surrounded by 6 other tectonic plates - namely, the Arabian Plate, the Australian Plate, the Burma Plate, the Eurasian Plate, the Somali Plate, and the Sunda Plate.

The Republic of the Philippines is a country that lies on a complex portion of the tectonic boundary between the Eurasian Plate, the Philippine Sea Plate, and the Sunda Plate. It is also located in the Pacific Ring of Fire.

India has an earthquake preparedness plan that is straight to the point but it’s downsides are that it is quite short and it only touches the basics on most of the topics that it talks about. It would be better if it were a bit lengthier and would be filled with more information on the different topics in it. The basics on structural systems, identifying the weaknesses of a structure, and retrofitting a structure is already quite useful but it does not contain the precise details on how you exactly do them and what other procedures should be followed.

India and the Philippines are both third-world countries, but the Philippines is more likely to have less damage when it comes to earthquakes since it is more developed and is already used to the occasional earthquakes due to their position in the Pacific Ring of Fire. Another advantage that Philippines has is it’s literacy rate which is around 95.0% , compared to India’s 69.0%, it obviously tops it.

India is a country with great resources that can be used to help lessen damages from earthquakes but it is held back by it’s economic freedom and the literacy of their people. The Philippines is also a country with great resources and is already quite prepared for earthquakes but it is currently held back by it’s slowing growth.

To conclude this reflection, India’s earthquake preparedness plan is better if you plan to learn the basics while Philippines’ earthquake preparedness plan, compared to India’s, is better if you plan to go a bit deeper into it’s wide range of topics.

-Vincentt Jesse Nunez http://jessefindings.blogspot.com

given by the government such as drop, cover, hold during earthquake tend to be unsettled and confused.

Why? because they think that they’re actually doing the right things rather than listening to the guidance of others which may help them to survive.

As a settled example, the 2013 Bohol earthquake that caused an estimated 1206 casualties (222 dead, 8 missing, 976 injured). Other than that, more than 73,000 structures were damaged, of which more than 14,500 were totally destroyed. It affected the whole Central Visayas region, particularly Bohol and Cebu. The quake was felt in the whole Visayas area and as far as Masbate Island in the north and Cotabato provinces in southern Mindanao.

But unfortunately, the Bohol earthquake was not just because they lacked discipline but also because the people living in that certain area didn’t know that a fault line has been created. Arguably, during that earthquake its hypothetical that people usually are not stable because they’re not settled and not thinking well. Their minds are preoccupied of what to get, what to have or thinking of running instead of following safety measures that might save them from the major disaster.

The same goes for Japan during the 2011 earthquake. Tohoku earthquake last March 11, 2011, was the strongest earthquake ever recorded in the country that triggered a tsunami. It caused an estimated 29,000 killings and known to have damaged some nuclear reactions. Aftershocks continue to run 50 times with a magnitude of 6.0 and 7.0.

The Philippines have lots to improve with their strategies and plans. Japan on the other hand as we see have been effectively managing their earthquake-proof structures which probably is a great and efficient way to lessen the effect of

what disaster might come in the future. However, we cannot continue the process of improvement generally to both countries if we cannot teach ourselves to be disciplined enough, to be calm and think wisely.

Calamities, disasters, natural phenomena’s or any other names that disrupt the lives of the people is always constant. We cannot stop the shaking of an earthquake, the intense splashes of water during a typhoon and even the falling of rocks during landslides. Generally, we cannot predict future happenings. Even scientists and other personnel relevant to any disaster cannot predict when and where a disaster may happen. They only give information when it is done by seeing its results and after-effects.

Just like in Japan, yes, they were prepared but we cannot expect that the process of taking the safety measures are followed by most people. We also cannot tell the buildings to stop from falling apart and even tell the grounds to stop cracking, even foretell who might die and survive.

On the other side, the government did not expect that the blistering blast of Tohoku earthquake was scourging. Maybe during the earthquake tons of individuals and families were trapped in certain places that caused them an injury or die. Casualties were numerous and tons of edifice was wrecked.

Our realization there is to lessen the harm that it might cause, we should be prepared and follow major steps or measures that may enable us to survive. We also should use our communications to be updated and have this so-called “proper channelling” with the people around us especially when the government asks us to evacuate. Be a good listener and always put things in option before deciding.

Because in life, we regret things when the situation is already done. And with that, a lot may diminish or suffer.

Also, the government should improve its strategic plans every year to be effective. Their mission is to help people out not just with poverty but also with this one. They should be aware that the citizens are also hoping for their help to be able to survive.

A common saying but maybe enough for one to survive. “Prevention is better than cure”. We have to be cautious enough to be safe and lower down our pride sometimes to understand that the government also cares for our sake. We should also listen to what others may say to be able to decide what side is good and bad for us and for our loved ones. But whatever happens in life, remember that it’s your life, your choice so feel free to decide wisely.

If that’s what keeps you safe, do it.

-Angel Kyle Calma calmgel.blogspot.com

Ecuador is a country located in the northwest part of South America and is one of the earthquake-prone countries in the world. The country sits on the edge of the South American Plate, beside with the Nazca Plate, which results in strong earthquakes in the country. Many cities in Ecuador are built on soft soils because these are flat and easy to build. The materials used in Ecuador’s infrastructures also have been of poor quality. With more and more people living in slums, it could be a higher risk since people do not have enough money to afford durable and long-lasting materials for their houses.

Some provinces in Ecuador are accustomed to small tremors and the people were not prepared on what to do during an earthquake. In a 2010 poll by El Universo newspaper, 85% of respondents in the cities of Quito and Guayaquil, Ecuador’s main cities stated they were uninformed about instructions on what to do during emergencies, and 40% were completely unaware of what to do during earthquakes.

With this information, Ecuador

is alarmingly unprepared for another massive earthquake –from the building structure to the awareness of the citizens. They often do drills every year, but it failed to be maintained properly. But after the 2016 earthquake, it has been an eye-opener to the citizens and government of Ecuador. The citizens of Ecuador have also used their innovativeness to use bamboo as the foundation of their buildings and it is fascinating that albeit the impacts and effects of the 2016 earthquake, their resourcefulness was greatly used so that certain effects and destruction would not happen again.

In comparison, the Philippines established the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council to ensure the protection of the people during an earthquake or calamity. They are also responsible for holding earthquake drills regularly in schools. The government also implemented strong building codes that fit the standard to withstand an 8.4 earthquake. In Ecuador, they have the National Secretariat for Risk Management (SNGR) to also ensure and monitor the citizen’s safety. They also have

emergency services to respond like the Ecuadorian Red Cross and ECU 911. They also do often hold earthquake drills. The raising of awareness in the country is poorly implemented, therefore making the citizens unprepared during an earthquake. During 2016, Ecuador also has included bamboo on its National Construction Code, making it the standard when people need to construct buildings.

To conclude, Ecuador is somehow unprepared to these calamities due to unawareness of what to do during earthquakes. The Ecuadorian government should have clearer plans to raise awareness properly so that people would not panic. These major earthquakes are signs that the government and the people should work together so that they can be able to reduce casualties. Earthquake preparedness is necessary because if people do not know any of these, it will be a great risk. If Ecuador would improve in terms of earthquake preparedness and building stability, then it would be a great benefit when another massive earthquake would strike anytime soon.

-Jude Francis E. Tadios monamour-propre.blogspot.com

A fishing boat crashes against a building after being swept ashore during a massive tsunami that hit the Japanese fishing port of Ofunato, Japan, March 15, 2011. Photo retrieved from The Windup.News.

¡Hola Ecuador! ¿Estás listo?

10

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

SPORTS

11

RUSSIAN FIREPOWER:

RHINITIS: YOUR HEALTH AND BUDGET

DOUBLE-TIME CHAMPS

check up and being careful with your surroundings are three of the many good decisions you should make.

Another three wise decisions are always eating and drinking healthy foods and if experiencing rhinitis symptoms, always consult a doctor.

Decision making is also included when you plan your budget. But what if your budget won’t be enough for all your needs, especially, now, you have rhinitis? Your budget which is enough for all your monthly needs is now not enough for the addition of all your medications.

The respiratory system is responsible for taking in oxygen and expelling carbon dioxide. There are three major parts of the respiratory system --- namely the airways, lungs and the muscles of respiration. But what if one part of our airways is damaged? Can we still be comfortably breathing? How do we know what disease is occurring in our respiratory system? How do

we prevent this? Let’s find out how.

Rhinitis is the inflammation of the mucous membrane of the nose.

It is commonly caused by allergy reactions such as pollen, dust and animal dander. This is characterized by sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes and itchiness. To prevent this disease, you must take non-sedative antihistamine and decongestants. When untreated,

In today’s society, people have been prone to diseases such as lung cancer, due to the bad habit that we’ve been doing until now. We all know that it is bad for us but we still tend to do it because somehow, for us, it felt so good. Over the past years, people especially the youth have been influenced to smoke and we all know that it is the number one factor that causes lung cancer. As the number of percentage in smoking increases, lung cancer also increases. How can we expect that youth nowadays will be a good example when even the older ones are the one teaching them?

Lung cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in one or both lungs. These abnormal cells don’t carry out the functions of normal lung cells and don’t develop into healthy lung tissue. People that have been experiencing this disease are suffering and worst case scenario, death would take part. About 80% of lung cancer deaths are caused by smoking and many others are caused by exposure to secondhand smoke because there is a higher chance to have a lung cancer if the person has a history of exposure to inhaled chemicals or other toxins. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 218,527 people in the United States received a lung cancer diagnosis in 2015. Early diagnosis can help a person seek treatment, as early as possible, in the disease’s course.

The symptoms in having a lung cancer don’t usually occur until the condition has worsen and reached the higher level. The following symptoms that might occur are appetite loss, changes to a person’s voice, such as hoarseness, frequen chest infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia, lingering cough that may start to get worse, shortness of breath, unexplained

headaches, weight loss, wheezing.

The treatment of lung cancer depends on its stage and location, as well as the overall health of the patient. There are a lot of possible treatments in this but it is not an assurance that you’ll be treated immediately .

Therefore, having an early diagnosis is important in order to know what you’re going through and in other words, it can be life-saving. You can treat lung cancer with surgery. A doctor may operate to remove cancerous lung tissue and tissue in the surrounding areas where cancer may have spread. Chemotherapy is also one way.

This treatment uses drugs to shrink or eradicate cancer cells. These medications target rapidly dividing cells, which makes them ideal for treating cancer. Chemotherapy treatment has a more significant impact on cancers, However, it is a powerful intervention and can have side effects including extreme nausea and weight loss. Another treatment is radiation therapy Radiation therapy. This approach uses high-energy rays to kill cancerous cells. A doctor may also use radiation to shrink a tumor before removing it surgically.

In the Philippines, smoking is already prohibited in most places and the tax rate of cigarettes has been increased because of the new law that has been implemented (Republic Act No. 10351). The proposal is to increase the tax rate to at least 3 pesos per stick or 60 pesos by pack. How is this link to economics? For instances, if a person buy cigarettes and we all know that the price increases, what the person should do is to learn how to budget and be wiser and should learn how to limit his/her use of cigarettes.

-Chelsea R. Aliganga chelseaaliganga.blogspot.com

The Costs of Lung Cancer

patient may result to severe complications such as infection in the middle ear and the Eustachian tube dysfunction. An example is shown above.

Economics is all about decision making. It is your choice to keep your respiratory system healthy.

Researching and checking beforehand the foods and drinks you are about to eat, having your monthly

Instead of a budget plan of PHP10,000, it exceeds to almost Example: PHP500 because of your health. But, PHP500 is not enough for your medications. For rhinitis, non-sedative antihistamines and decongestants, when combined, could be more or less PHP1,600. Non-sedative antihistamines ranges from PHP800 and above and decongestants ranges from PHP500 and above. You still need to add up your check ups and consultations from doctors, which are more or less PHP500.

Therefore, healthcare adds up a great amount to your budget, so we should always make sure to take care of our body and This is your usual monthly to always eat and live healthy.

-Donesa Rhae Azcuna budget, but when medications add www.loqueseawhats.blogspot.com up to your expenses, this happens:

DENGUE: Disruption by Quiet Deliverers

It does not take much to understand the amount of suffering a patient with dengue goes through, as well as the accompanying loved ones who devoted some DEAD OR ALIVE? A girl lifelessly lying on bed, diagnosed time to see with dengue. Photo retrieved from CNN. them to the end.

You are held down to a bed, Just go to any public health facility in but not by exaggerating physical areas that have been placed on high means, but by a towering apparatus alert. You will see wary eyes and worn stationed by your side, with long vas- bodies, each telling a story of hope cular tubes running down its original amidst hardship. As much as they may height, and into your pierced, stiff- try, their fates may no longer be within ened hand, signifying that you have their control. “Sakit kaayu … Sakit… become one with that familiar scene Sakit hunahunaon …“(It hurts) is of melancholic unease that you see in one of the commonly denoted statethe news or television, probably nev- ments from people within the localier doubting the likelihood that it will ty, mothers worried to death, unable not happen to you. You are sick, and to bear the sight of their children in the anxiety of the worse to come puts pain, the money and all the resources you to your bed, eliciting thoughts of required that parents work blood and hope for a speedy recovery, but im- sweat to earn, and the mental integrimediately gets overturned upon hear- ty one must maintain to see through ing verdicts indicating your failing this, are all common associations in state of health. You cannot sleep as relation to this troubling endemic. you hear figures of white lurking the Personally, the thoughts of halls, and you anxiously wait as you what are to come when Dengue beare aware that your door may creak comes involved had been quite seared open at any time, and with the intent into my brain. To think that the idea of your blood, stoic faces come in and of such seemingly common disease punctures holes in you with dead ac- can spark so much pain, suffering, curacy, leaving just as soon as they economical, and political controvercame in. You are tired as the fussing sies within a country such as our own of loved ones around you land on deaf makes me shiver as, if this disease, ears, and weakness from your body which is actually quite maintainable, and the difficulty of getting around is inflicting such damage that alerts dries you to your core as you wait have been issued not only here in the for whatever eventuality awaits you. Philippines and other regions in the

south east, but to other places such as Europe and Latin America, how would we possibly fare against pandemic diseases with properties even more terrifying than the one we already hear of everyday? The results may be baffling to statistics, but can be very real and possible. This is a matter of serious consideration, and I believe that citizens such as you and I must recognize this threat, and deal with it in ways we can rather than leaving it all up to the government whose hands are so often already tied. An inch of prevention is way better than a pound of cure, after all.

As Dengue has had its roots sown in the distant past, it had become more widespread now than it did many years ago. Society gradually building itself up had affected the environment surrounding it, providing perfect places for the disease to propagate via its most efficient hitmen: mosquitoes. Aedes aegypti being the most notorious of them all. Silent as they are, they are efficient at their job, they can position themselves undetected, not unless noticed before doing any damage to us, only then alerting us with a sting after the damage has been done. To add on to this, incidences have grown dramatically around the world in recent decades. One estimates 390 million dengue infections per year, of which 96 million manifest clinically. This disease, with 4 known serotypes, are brought upon unsuspecting victims, but is nature to blame? Maybe, but one thing is for sure, Dengue is undoubtedly causing damage to humanity through its most silent deliverers.

-Mary Chrisha E. Tadios

UNDEFEATED TEAM. A happy Russian team celebrates a second straight Nations League title Photo by FIVB The Russian Men’s Nation- again the solid prowess of the Rus- of the match by firing a direct one al Volleyball team has always been sian Men’s National Volleyball team. to their opponents. At 1 – 1 down, known to be very powerful and reThe finals of the Volleyball Taylor Sander of the USA made his silient in the World Volleyball stage. Nations League 2019 were held in first point for his team, and at 1 – 2 Russia has always had a lot of leg- Credit Union Arena in Chicago on down, in favor of the USA. Sander ends in the past, and even until now July 14, 2019, with USA hosting it, also made his first block by doing it like their star opposite player Masxim opposing the defending champions, to the lefty opposite hitter of Russia, Mikhaylov and their tree-like sized Russia. Last year, Russia was the Viktor Poletaev. At 5-6 down, in famiddle blocker Dmitriy Mvserskiy, champions of the inaugural event of vor still of the USA, the star setter but of them were present in the Vol- the Volleyball Nations League 2018, of the hosting team, Micah Cristenleyball Nations League 2019 because beating France with 3 – 0. Weirdly son managed to execute a set for his of personal reasons, so the new coach and coincidentally enough, Russia middle blocker, David Smith despite of the team, Tuomas Sammelvuo, had had beaten the hosts of the event and a reception that almost went out-ofto pick only the most reliable play- adding up to that, the teams that they bounds from the receivers, and his ers he can find in his master list of beat in both finals also made it to the middle blocker successfully made an players in the national team, and his finals, and both lost to Russia as well. attack. At 7-8 down, Dmitry Volkov of In the first set, Dmitry Russia served a jump float and won a picking of players was surely worth it, and he proved to the world yet Volkov of Russia made the first point point, thus now making the scoreline

“Greek-Freak “represents for his home-country, dominates game against Montenegro

FREAKIN’ TIME. Antetokounmpo successfully defends the ball against Spain. Photo by Wang Zhao. Retrived from Getty Images.

Nanjing, China – The Greek playing styles on, with only 7 points National Basketball team showed on the scoreboard in the first 5 mintheir prowess in Basketball, especially utes of the match. Although it was with the new NBA star, Giannis Ante- the “Hellas” (an appellation refertokounmpo, coming back to the Greek ring to the Greeks) that made the National Basketball team to represent leading run to take a 17-9 lead after for his home-country, in World Stage the first period. Greece never looked when they beat Montenegro 85-60 back as they overhauled Monteneon their first match in Group F at the gro to just 7 points in the second FIBA Basketball World Cup, with the quarter to blow their lead up to 26 “Greek-Freak” Giannis Antetokoun- points at the half and close the affair. mpo showing his excellence on court It took time for Greece’s regardless of the fact that he played for competence to finally get their just a particularly short while on-court. A-game on, and after that, it was the Antetokounmpo only had Greek’s turning point. Thanks to a few 16 minutes to successfully garner 10 good steals and solid rebounding, the points, 8 rebounds, while also execut- Greeks garnered 10 straight points, ing 2 steals and 1 mighty block. He mostly in transition, to make their showed to the crowd in the stadium first double-digit lead rise, 15-4, after and the world that his love and com- a Georgios Printezis fastbreak dunk. mitment for representing Milwaukee The Greeks never looked back at that Bucks in NBA is just as great as for rep- moment and Montenegro never had resenting his Home-country, Greece. the chance to recover after all that.

Despite the fact that he did The Greeks and the Montenegrins took time to get their gameplays and not start, it was the World Cup new-

kid-on-the-block Georgios Papagiannis who radiated his excellence for the “Hellas”. The 21-year-old, 7”1 (217 cm) Center made his presence felt throughout the last 30 minutes of the game and played on-court like it was his personal playground or home court.

The Panathinaikos big man garnered 15 points, 8 rebounds and 2 blocked shots while completing shooting 7 out of 8 shots (7-of-8) from the field.

Montenegro head coach Zvezdan Mitrovic will experience particular sorrow on that day for witnessing his team shoot only 34.3 percent from the floor. Montenegro’s offense was in bad shape as they could scarcely execute great plays to gather high scores. Greece went with the flow on the momentum they built in the first quarter until the rest of the game, shooting 33-out-of-58, which was real’ nice for a 56.9 percent shooting percentage.

In the first five minutes, the Greek team seemed to be nervous and tense, but when they got their game on, they became unstoppable. The performance of their bench-players was also a surprise to the audience and the world, with Papagiannis, Printezis, Thanasis Antetokounmpo (Greek-Freak’s brother) and Giannoulis Larentzakis all scoring 7 or more points. All those revealed how far the Greek team can go, which will motivate them in their next assignment as they conquer on Brazil next.

Montenegro, on the other hand, will have the chance to return to the drawing board and hope their offensive game will come against hard-luck New Zealand on Tuesday.

-Dan Paolo B. Ballares

equal, 8-8. At 15-17 down, was one of the best rallies of the match when Sander saved the ball after the setter of Russia, Igor Kotzar, tipped it, and the opposing team were helping to get the ball back to the other side of the court, and Polaetaev of Russia delivers down a strong one, but the USA still managed to save it. The rally ended when Dmitry Volkor of Russia spiked the ball, thus giving Russia the point. Russia claimed the first set, 25-23, despite the tight scoreline.

In the second set, at 11-15 down, Sander served a fire ball that prompted the Russian team a free ball for the USA and Sander again put down the ball by firing one of the back-row. At 17-21 down, USA scored when USA’s middle blocker Maxwell Holt, darted a steep fire ball, thus giving them a point. USA closed down the set with 20-25, in style when Cristenson served a ball that only tumbled on the wet, with the receivers very far away from it.

In the third set, at 5-9 down, Sander got an ace from his serve when the ball drifted off for Egor Kliuka’s hands when he tried to receive it. Rus-

sia then went on to dominate the set and win it, with a final score of 25-21.

In the fourth and last set, at 8-8 down, Sander delivered an ace again when the ball hit Kliuka’s face. At 17-13 down, that moment became a real highlight of the match when Igor Kobzar, setter of Russia, set the ball to his middle blocker Ilyas Kurkaev perfectly despite the distance between them, thus making Kurkaev fire a strong one.

Russia won the match 3-1, with a final score of 25-23, 20-25, 25-21 and 25-20. Russia then celebrated the strength of their team despite having lesser legends with them.

The MVP of the whole tournament is Matt Anderson of USA. The best two middle blockers of the tournament are Maxwell Holt of USA and Ivan Iakovlev of Russia, the three best outside hitters of the tournament are Bartozs Bednorsz of Poland, Egor Kluka and Dmitry Volkov of Russia. The best libero of the tournament is Erik Shoji of USA, and the best setter of the tournament is Micah Cristenson of USA. -Dan Paolo B. Ballares

Kento Momota seals second World Championship victory Kento Momota (JAP) is the new leading men’s single’s player of Japan. He is known for his explosive movements on court, very clean drop shots, almost touching the net and simply tumbling over at some points in his matches, his very strong smash which he always cleverly targets in an area in the court where his opponents would have a hard time predicting where it would land, and overall, he is technically unbeatable and incredibly unpredictable. And recently, he has garnered yet another very great achievement this year, becoming the champion of this years Badminton World Championships.

Kento Momota remained unbeaten in his title defense of the Badminton World Championships, when he defended his victory by destroying Anders Antonsen (DEN) with crushing straight sets and a loose final score of 21-9. 21-3. Momota breezed through to the title without dropping a single game. And at 21-9 21-3, pounding off the Dane to set a record for the best ever winning score at a World Championship Finals. Momota only needed 37 minutes to seal his second title. Momota’s form at the tournament solidly reflected in the score lines of all his matches, by that fact too, it was definitely sure that he only aimed at getting the Gold medal title, in which he straightforwardly achieved.

In doing all that so, Momota also became the 4th player to get a back-to-back victory in a miniscule, all-Chinese list that includes Yang-Yang, Lin Dan, and Chen Long.

“I came here wanting to win and I had the confidence that I would do well. I trained a lot for this. This competition was always on my mind. I played at a consistently high level.” - Kento Momota.

-Dan Paolo B. Ballares

Kento Momota during the World Chamionship. Photo retrieved from Olympic Channel.

SPORTS

12

POLAND DEFEATS BRAZIL LEADING

SCORED A POINT. Bartosz Bednorz (#22) celebrates with the Polish team when they gained a point against Brazil. Photo received from Getty images.

CHICAGO, U.S.A, July land to the Bronze Medal Victory. tournament – Brazil – was the 2nd 14, 2019 - in a clash between a Other Polish players who in-hand Opposite Hitter for Brazil, young-but-reliable polish team and scored Two-digit points as the back- Alan Souza (#21) , who fired down, a very-mighty veteran team, Brazil, to-back World Champions defeat- sadly, only 8 points for the team, to Poland claimed their bronze meded the South American Olympic think that he was the top actual scoral victory when they defeated BraChampions was the Opposite hitter er of the team, it explains that every zil in a straight, little-to-no-sweat of Poland, Lukasz Kaczmarek (#5), player of the Brazilian team dismatch, 3-0 (25-17, 25-23, 25-21), who fired down 11 points, and Main played their best game-play despite at the 2019 FIVB Volleyball NaMiddle-Blocker and current captain losing and ending up at 4th place.

Poland finished fifth of the tions League at Credit Union 1 of the team for Poland, Karol Klos tournament’s Preliminary Round on arena, Chicago, USA, on Sunday. (#77), who inserted 10 points into 11 wins from 15 matches. In the FiBartosz Bednorz was the top scorer the scoreboard of Poland. On the othnals’ pool stage, they first destroyed of that match when he accumulated er hand, the top scorer of the beaten Brazil in a tight match of five sets team, and the now 4th placers of the 20 points in the match to lead Pobefore also defeating Iran in four

Russia claims spot to second round

TO SHIELD THE BALL. Mikhail Kulagin (#3) of Russia defends the ball from Lee Daesung (#43) of Korea. Photo retrieved from bestsport.news.

Wuhan, China – The mighty Slavs, Russia, sealed a slot to the Second Round of the FIBA Basketball World Cup on Monday after encountering one of the favorites of the tournament, Korea, 87-73 at the Wuhan Sports Center.

Four players from the Russia Men’s National Basketball team administered double-figured points led by Andrey Vorontsevich and Vitaly Fridzon who fired 13 points apiece in a real’-tight and tense matchup to inspire the Russians to victory in well-deserved fashion.

Mikhail Kulagin and Andrey Zubkov placed 11 points to the statistics board that showed might and excellence of a side ready to share roles all for the glory of Russia in a great and nicely administrated team effort.

Third quarter dominance in a basketball match is the strong point for superior teams and Russia came out mightily fervid, scoring 23 points while stopping Korea to get their scores up high at just 12. More importantly, Russia red and found a way to stop Korea center Guna Ra, who had his game on, and who managed to score 13 points in the first half and they blocked his great playing form, which made him score sadly only six points in the second half.

Using the really great size of their players on full on both ends of the court, Russia sewed onto the

minds of everyone in the audience and the world why they have the very great chance of being called title favorites. They wore, and naturally do, a fierce look that showcased their mighty game-play and made the crowd realize who they were and what they were aiming for to display a determined team ready to fight tooth and nail for victory.

To be the best in big, obvious and small, detailed ways is to rise up as a true leader and that is what Nikita Kurbanov contributed for himself and for Russia on his way to being named as the TCL Player of the Game.

A really mighty playing-style, which was displayed in the stats paper, nine assists, eight points and seven rebounds. The CSKA Moscow small forward was blazing hot playing for Russia as he helped his team record a second straight victory at the World Cup. Only a single player from Korea’s starters got the chance to score in double figures. Ra Gu Na scored a game high 19 points.

The other starters, Lee Seoung Hyun, scored nine points with Lee Jung Hyun adding seven, while Kim Sun Hyung (six) and finally, Choi Jun Yong(two). Guard Lee Dae Sung came off the bench to add 17 to the team’s total scores.

Russia will be facing Argen-

tina in what is expected to be a close tie since Argentina is a no-slouch team, to determine the leaders of Group B table and eventually the fate of their route to their objective - the Final in Beijing.

The winner of this group will face the second-place team in Group A which is either hosts China, Venezuela or Poland. The second placed team in Group B faces the Group A winner who could be one of the three teams mentioned.

One of Russia’s Shooting Guards, Sergev Karasev, stated: “ I want to appreciate the Korean team they battled the whole game they showed character even when we went up we knew that they run the first break and can we made some changes in the third quarter which was very important. we have to move forward and move forward and think about Argentina.” The coach of the Russian team, Sergey Bazarevich, also stated in an interview: “We knew it would be tough after an emotional win two days ago, we kind of feel that we are better on paper. we wanted to understand that Korea can play a different style of play. They fought until the end.

It looked like a big lead but I was a bit nervous because I knew that they could come back into the game. Our players were distributing something.

We have to continue to play like this.”

-Dan Paolo B. Ballares

sets. They got defeated by the eventual back-to-back champions, Russia in the semifinals on Saturday. Brazil meanwhile finished as top 1 of the Preliminary Round with 14 wins outof-15 matches played before losing to Poland in the 3rd place match and winning against Iran in the first Finals’ pool round, Brazil lost to the eventual 2nd placers of the tournament, USA, in the semifinals on Saturday.

What made Poland standout in the match was their blocking game against Brazil, with a lot of their points being made from blocks, even more fascinating, a majority of the players they blocked against Brazil were the best in the Brazilian team, the best block that was executed by the team came from the one who led Poland to their 3rd place victor , Outside Hitter Bartosz Bednorz (#22), when he blocked the star Opposite hitter of Brazil, and currently the 2nd best opposite hitter in the world, Wallace De Souza (#8), 1-on-1, simply, he blocked the opposite hitter by himself and without assistance. One of the best highlights of the bronze medal match was when the main Libero (the player with the best defense on court, and the

one wearing the different colored jersey) of the Brazilian team, Thales Hoss (#4), kicking the ball almost Neymar Jr. style when it went out-of-bounds, and because of that, that rally went on until the star player of the team in that match, Bartosz Bednorz(#22) of Poland, hit the ball against the attempted mighty block of Brazil.

This is yet another proof that Success comes with experience, not age, since yes, a lot of their players were particularly young, but they were all very talented and experienced in a way, if not talented, some of them were surely very reliable to get the job done. This is also the same thing with the current champions of the tournament, Russia, when they beat USA 3-1 (25-23, 20-25, 25-21, 25-20). The Russian team outfit did not have a lot of star players since they were on leave from the Russian National team, so the coach of the team had to choose young, talented and reliable players for their team, and the players who were chosen surely did not disappoint when they destroyed the more stronger, mightier, and more experienced USA team.

-Dan Paolo B. Ballares

Road to Tokyo 2020: Volleyball Olympic

Qualification

Its only 10 months until the start of the most prestigious sporting event in this planet at current time, the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, and in the world volleyball stage, the governing body of this sport in world stage, the FIVB, has organized a tournament to determine the first 6 national teams to be qualified for the 2020 Olympics.

The host nations of the Tokyo Volleyball Qualification 2019 are Bulgaria, Netherlands, Italy, Poland, Russia and China. 24 teams qualified for the competition as the top 24 teams of FIVB World Rankings which was confirmed on Oct 1, 2018. Japan has been excluded from the list since they are the host and they are automatically qualified.

The Teams were seeded following the Serpentine System according to their FIVB World Rankings as of October 1 2018. Each team is placed in placed in a certain pool, along with other teams, spanning from Pool A to Pool F. There will only be one team that can win a whole pool, and these winners will be qualified for the 2020 Olympics.

In pool A, Brazil topped the

pool by not losing a single match, thus, guaranteeing them the qualification for the 2020 Olympics. In pool B held in Rotterdam, Netherlands, U.S.A topped the pool with similar results as Brazil in Pool A. In pool C, held in Bari, Italy, Italy got the chance to be qualified when they crushed Serbia 3-0. In pool D, held in Gdansk, Poland, the hosts, Poland, topped the pool in home soil when they destroyed Slovenia chances of getting qualified first with a final standing of 3-1. The team qualified in pool E, which was held in St. Petersburg, Russia, was the hosts, Russia, when they made a sure win against Iran, 3-0. And in the final pool, pool F, which was held in Ningbo, China, Argentina made the surprising qualification when they beat the hosts, China, in 5 games, 3-2, with Argentina garnering the victory.

The other teams who did not have a single win, or did not make it to getting qualified will get the chance to be qualified again for the Olympics by January 2020.

-Dan Paolo B. Ballares

JUMP AND SPIKE. Ricardo Lucarelli spikes the ball to the Puerto Rican side of the court. Photo retrieved from fivb.com