Top 5 nga ba talaga tayo?
Albrecht Mauro R. Beltran Jr.
When the news broke out that the Adamson University ranked fifth in the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) University Rankings - Philippines, suddenly, the wearing of the uni’s ID lanyards and shirts became a big deal for the community.
Together with Adamson in the list were UP Diliman, Ateneo, La Salle, and UST. Seeing the name of our dear institution next to the “Big Four,” the students wore Adamson on their chests with pride.
As per the QS report, Adamson accumulated scores from key indicators including, citations per paper, international student relations, academic reputation, employer reputation, international research network, and staff with PhD, among others.
Observing the aforementioned standards, they might have potentially missed something about the 92-yearold institution.
To date, Adamson
University still imposes policies that appear to repress the individuality and confidence of the students.
The University Student Manual 2024 Edition prohibits students from having exposed tattoos, body piercings, colored hair, wearing excessive makeup, and even imposes strict dress codes.
Question: how could any of these impair the students’ proficiency in academics?
We now live in a society wherein the youth earned their hard-fought power to occupy space—a space they know they belong in, a space they would feel safe at.
With the outdated policies the University thrusts against the students, the confidence, ardently built brick by brick, was eventually tarnished and pushed back behind a conservative stockpile.
Since the last time this issue was summoned into a discussion, not a single word was
heard from the Administration. Mind you, that was already more than a year ago. So, what now?
The students are left hanging from a semblance of guarantee that they are heard, that their opinions are valued.
Adamsonians seem to be held at a gunpoint; torn between upholding their own identity or complying with a set of rules that repress what is left to uphold.
“Recognizing” a safe space is not just about washing the remnants of a hazing incident off one’s hands. It is also about reaffirming inclusivity among students’ self-expressions.
Just this semester, the Adamson Boys Basketball Team sported a cross-dressing stunt during the University’s Pep Rally. In an instant, gender bending is consented for the sake of “entertainment.”
Well, if earning the Administrators’ affirmation is that easy, then, it shall be no sweat to license all the other
students the freedom with their bodies.
The realization of the “top five” title should not be restrained only to QS Rankings’ standards. Its manifestation must extend to the interests and emancipation of the progressive students. Professionals are refined through academic excellence and extensive experiences, and no sense of individualism can obstruct one’s success. What shall be expected of the liberal youth when confined in a campus that reeks of conservatism? How far could a falcon fly with clipped and dulled wings?
Our dear institution, none of your repressive policies will taunt the academic reputation of any Adamsonian. If anything, they may derail morale, then staining such reputation.
So long as the calls remain untouched, a question to the Adamson University persists: “Top 5 nga ba talaga tayo?”
ADU MBT UAAP S87 PREVIEW: A quest for new King
The hunt intensifies as the Adamson Soaring Falcons bid farewell to some key players. Among the standouts is Jerom Lastimosa, renowned for his clutch performances and oncourt leadership. Regardless of a gap in the lineup, the San Marcelino-based squad moves forward, but who will now rise to the challenge?
Looking back to Lastimosa’s era, he marked a period of success for the Adamson Soaring Falcons. In Season 81, the Dumaguete native forced overtime in Game 1 of the Final Four against UP Fighting Maroons. Meanwhile, in Season 85, he led the team back to the semifinals, where they fell to Ateneo Blue Eagles.
Prior to UAAP Season 87, the “kingless” journey for the Falcons began with Lastimosa sidelined by an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) tear. Despite a stronger second-round performance in Season 86 that kept their Final Four hopes alive, their run ended with a decisive playoff loss to Ateneo.
With the departure of the “King Falcon” turning pro in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), the Nash Racela-led squad begins a new chapter with a familiar core and fresh talents to take new flight plans.
Key Losses
The loss of big man Vince Magbuhos, who delivered in the clutch in the first match
of the Ateneo-AdU trilogy, is a significant setback for the team. Alongside him, his brother Wilfrey Magbuhos and former team captain Jed Colonia also depart, changing the lineup experience-wise. Additionally, the departure of reliable shot creators further struck the team. Didat Hanapi has turned pro in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) and is now settled in PBA, while Joem Sabandal’s surprising exit adds to the challenge.
After leading the Season 86 opener against UST, Sabandal also suffered an ACL-related injury, leaving Adamson even with a season left in his eligibility. These departures will require the team to adapt quickly
as they look to fill the gaps and maintain a competitive edge in the ongoing season.
Mainstays
Despite these significant losses, the Racela-led squad now has an opportunity to step into the spotlight and prove themselves as the new top gunner. The mainstays may even have the chance to take on the “King Falcon” mantle once held by Lastimosa. Cedrick Manzano, foreign student-athlete Mudiaga Ojarikre, and Mario Barasi Jr. look to rule the paint. They will be joined by combo guards Matt Erolon, John Calisay, Eli Ramos, Manu Anabo, and Joshua Barcelona.
In his fifth year with the team, newly appointed team captain Joshua Yerro looks to lead through his experience. Meanwhile, last season’s revelation, Matthew Montebon, a scoring machine who shined in crucial moments, is now primed to become the team’s top gunner.
Key Additions
With several shoes ready to be filled, the Adamson Soaring Falcons loaded up their arsenal with talents that addressed their needs. After sitting out a year of residency, 6-foot-3 small forward AJ Fransman from Enderun Colleges and 6-footADU MBT UAAP S87 P5
Falcon
The Adamson Chronicle
Niño Dominic Ronquillo
KINGLESS NEST. The Adamson Soaring Falcons take flight on a new era in the UAAP Season 87 Men’s Basketball Tournament.
ADU WBT S87 Preview: Lady Falcons suit up for a dark horse run
Niño Dominic Ronquillo
After a Final Four appearance in the UAAP Season 82, the Adamson Lady Falcons endured three consecutive seasons of placing in the middle of the standings. However, with renewed determination, the days of mediocrity in San Marcelino are over, as the team gears up to surprise everyone.
With Head Coach Ryan Monteclaro’s second year at the helm, the Lady Falcons have no major changes as they head into the 87th season of the league. Though, this time, they have a clear objective in mind.
“We’re trying to find our own identity last year. This year, it’s more of trying to get into that next level,” said the former King Falcon.
The San Marcelino basedsquad finished the season prior with a 4-10 record, placing sixth in the Women’s
Basketball Tournament, dismantling both Far Eastern University Lady Tamaraws and University of the East Lady Warriors on their four wins.
Moreover, the Lady Falcons experienced only one setback following the departure of their former team captain, Rose Ann Dampios. This season, foreign student-athlete Oluwakemi Adeshina leads the team, as Coach Monteclaro encourages the Nigerian center to get out of her comfort zone.
“We wanted her to take the role mainly because I felt like I wanted [...] Kemi is a born leader, I wanted her to really get out of her shell,” he stated.
Key Mainstays
The Adamson Lady Falcons boast a roster with key players who remained intact, particularly the backcourt
gunners with Crisnalyn Padilla, Elaine Etang, and Kazel Mazo, taking the role of floor generals.
During the UAAP Season 86, Padilla reserved her finest performance to break their three-game losing streak, bagging a 71-60 victory over FEU. The 5-foot-1 guard scored 18 points on six threepointers along with four steals. Meanwhile, Etang orchestrates the team’s offense with her, recording 12 points to conclude their campaign.
The trio is joined by Cheska Apag, Kim Limbago, and Jam Meniano, who are also poised to create shots and torch defenses with their all-around scoring presence.
Despite playing with veteran teammates last season, Apag and Limbago’s steady developments and ability to score from all areas of the
court are something to watch out for. Moreover, Meniano once led the team with 15 points against FEU during their first-round matchup.
Meanwhile, another batch of trio, Adeshina, Zyryll Cortez, and Kat Agojo are manning the paint, looking to snatch opportunities with inside scoring and rebounding. Their physical presence is essential for establishing a strong inside game, which will be crucial for the Lady Falcons’ performance this season.
“They already had their experiences. Most of them, especially the core, going to their second year together. Hopefully,
with the experiences, we’ll get maturity,“ Monteclaro said.
Returns and Additions
After recovering from an Anterior Cruciate Ligament injury, veteran Novie Ornopia returns to the main lineup, adding more beef to the frontcourt and aiming to top up the absence left by Dampios. Meanwhile, Angeline, onehalf of the Alaba twins, seeks to reestablish her presence in the main lineup after being relegated to the B-squad last season. Moreover, two rookies, Niclen Manlimos and Arianna Delos ADU WBT UAAP S87 P7
The Adamson Chronicle
FEARLESS FALCONS. With their core players remaining, The Adamson Lady Falcons look to soar into greater heights in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Basketball Tournament.
4 combo guard Royce Mantua from UST look to contribute both inside and outside the paint.
Arizona State University prospects Cade and Austine Ronzone will bring scoring and playmaking with their two-way guard style, alongside 6-foot-2 point guard Carl Alexander, who hailed from the United Kingdom.
Offseason
The offseason track record of the Soaring Falcons proved that their new direction seems an up-and-down trajectory for the squad.
In an open invitational league in Mindanao, the team triumphed over the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Season 99 champions San Beda University, winning 71-63 and claiming the championship in a dominating manner, last July 29.
However, their 2024 Filoil Preseason Cup campaign saw an early exit after placing seventh in the UAAP bracket with a 2-5 win-loss record, dismantling Ateneo and NU in their two wins, with a runner-up finish in the Asiabasket tournament.
Adamson head coach Nash Racela expects the Soaring Falcons to “give their best every game” as they look to approach the ongoing season on game-to-game results and grab “wins as much as possible.”
Many anticipate that the Soaring Falcons will struggle, making the journey to the top appear more challenging than ever. However, with promising offseason results and key additions to the roster, Adamson hopes to make a statement and surprise the league once again.
UAAP S86 RECAP: Ever-so-close run of AdU Volleyball Teams
Allysa Saldivar
ALL FOR ONE. The Adamson Lady Falcons fought through the UAAP Season 86 Women’s
Tournament together, full of heart. Jeremay Onayan
Two resilient collegiate squads that symbolize the spirit of *almost*, making the finish line just out of reach. Despite the grit of the Adamson University Women’s and Men’s Volleyball Team, the squads fell short either in nail-biting matches or by the weight of injuries. The thought remains: when will the stars align for these teams?
In Season 86, the Adamson Lady Falcons heading into the tournament lost some key players, including Louie Romero, Trisha Tubu, Kate Santiago, and Lorene Toring. The hopes were high from the community, following their bronze-medal finish in UAAP Season 85. However, the chances turned uncertain even before, as the University announced parting ways with Coach Jerry Yee despite a historic run under his name. In return, just four days after releasing him, JP Yude was appointed as the new
head coach of the Lady Falcons.
The San Marcelino-based volleybelles then handed Yude’s first collegiate win after fending off the UP Fighting Maroons in the first round of the UAAP Season 86. Despite losing Toring’s middle presence, Mayang Nique stepped up for her team after scoring 12 points.
Nonetheless, the excitement quickly faded as the team’s inconsistency in performance and close matchups led to missed opportunities.
The Lady Falcons absorbed a losing streak, noting a 2-5 win-loss record in the first round—what stings the most is their inability to secure wins in tightly contested games against top teams.
In the last two games, Adamson fell short against the resurging Blue Eagles in a fourset match. The squad almost pulled through a stunning comeback during the third and
fourth sets. Unfortunately, the same scenario spoiled them after they surrendered to feisty Ange Poyos and UST Golden Tigresses to cap the first round. Entering the second round, the taste of victory often slipped away for the young-laden team. A crushing loss against UE Lady Warriors welcomed their second-round opener. Alongside this, team captain Almonte missed the game after hurting her knee. Meanwhile, Nuique and Jen Villegas were benched due to a lack of practice at the same game. Unfortunately, aside from one hard-fought victory against UP Fighting Maroons in a five-set match, the rest of the round took a downturn.
After reaching the Final Four in Season 85, the Lady Falcons concluded their UAAP Season 86 campaign with a
Volleyball
UAAP S86 RECAP P5
3-11
record. Certainly, there will always be questions about what could have been if the team had not faced such conflicts.
On the other hand, the Men’s Volleyball Team along with Coach George Pascua had a good offseason before UAAP Season 86, bagging the gold in the Men’s Volleyball Indoor Philippine University Games (UNIGAMES) Dipolog 2024.
Unlike last season, the team finally filled the position of libero, making them more equipped than ever. But, the Soaring Falcons still endured the same problem with inconsistent performances and tight games that scarred their chances.
The Pascua-led team snatched the first win of the season in a three-set sweep
against UP Fighting Maroons. However, the potential momentum for Adamson turned into a win-loss cycle in their preceding games.
During their last two games, the Soaring Falcons narrowly defeated the Blue Eagles in three closely contested sets, 28-26, 25-22, 30-28. But, it was a short-lived boost when they suffered a tough loss in a fifth-setter match against UST Golden Spikers to cap their first round with a 3-4 record.
Heading into the second round, the team found themselves struggling to win crucial plays. Despite a determination to duplicate their UNIGAMES championship journey, it was not enough to propel the team forward.
The San Marcelino-based squad’s hunt for victory ended after finishing their UAAP Season 86 stint at the sixth spot. The team managed to secure only one victory throughout the entire second round against UE Red Warriors. Looking back on their experiences, each failure indeed paves the way for growth and improvement, even if it takes longer than expected. The spirit to soar higher remains a hint of optimism for the future.
At this point, searching for ways to regain their footing is like an ongoing game. They may not have the best run and mental toughness that people need to see, but whatever lies ahead in the upcoming season, the hope will remain.
UAAP S86 Look back: Herstory of Adamson’s 11th Softball Championship
Alyssa Saldivar
With unparalleled skill and determination, the Adamson University Lady Falcons have once again claimed the UAAP Softball Championship, marking an incredible 11th consecutive title, last UAAP
Season 86. With its seasoned players and team coaches, they crafted a legacy that defines dominance in collegiate softball.
The reigning queens of UAAP softball kicked off their season with a 3-0 victory
over the University of Santo Tomas in the UAAP 86 Softball Tournament, last April 17. With this first commanding victory, the Lady Falcons sent a clear message that they were ready to dominate the tilt.
Last UAAP Season
86, Adamson faced fierce competitors, including UST Tiger Softbelles and the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons. Each game tested their mettle, but the Falcons emerged stronger and bolstered their spirit with every match
Road to Championship
During the elimination round last season, the Adamson Lady Falcons’ triumph set the tone after finishing it with a perfect record, securing a 4-1 win against UST in a fiercely defensive match. The victory propelled them to show their intent to reign supreme and
secure their championship. After struggling to capitalize their hits against Tiger Softbelles in the second inning, the Lady Falcons eventually found their offensive rhythm, scoring two runs in the third and fourth innings to take a 4-0 lead.
In this match, Roma Cruz led as a standout performer, leading the team with two hits in four at-bats, and emerged with Senior Khrisha Cantor’s two hits. Moreover, the victory during this elimination even forced UST and UP into a playoff match.
Streak is Alive
The championship series turned into a highly anticipated clash, as the Lady Falcons were on the verge of a streakending defeat against the Fighting Maroons. In a gripping showdown at the UP Baseball Field, the Lady Falcons absorbed the first defeat of the season.
Adamson showcased their tenacity but still found themselves only noting four hits and striking out six batters. However, in Game 2, the Ana Santiago-led team maintained their quest for an 11-peat after defeating the Katipunan-based squad, 15-2.
With the championship on the line, the Lady Falcons bounced back with a strong offensive performance, scoring four runs in the opening inning. Their relentless offense persisted, carving in a final inning where they added seven more runs, with Mary Jane Libaton delivering a standout performance. Ultimately, the Lady Falcons pulled off a stunning comefrom-behind 4-3 victory in the winner-take-all match.
UAAP S86 LOOKBACK P7
UAAP Media Team
Kristine Mae Balanay
REACHING FOR MORE. The Adamson Soaring Falcons look to rise once again after a sixth-place finish in the UAAP Season 86 Men’s Volleyball Tournament.
PRESTIGE - The Adamson Softball Team makes history after nabbing their 11th consecutive UAAP Softball Tournament championship.
The Fighting Maroons initially took the lead but the Lady Falcons quickly responded, leveling the score in the fifth, overpowering UP until the final stretch to clinch the title. Awards and Standouts
Aside from extending their dynasty, the team received individual awards for their standout performances throughout the season. April Mae Minanga earned the Best Pitcher, while Khrisha Cantor was honored with the Most Homerun award.
In addition, Gabriel
gained both the Best Hitter and Best Slugger awards. The standout from Fort Bonifacio High School also hailed the Season’s MVP award, and eventually decided to finish her collegiate run after three championships to her name.
Meanwhile, Lady Falcons head coach Ana Santiago received a special award at the Philippine Sports Commission’s inaugural Women in Sports Awards honoring her significant contributions to Philippine softball, last March 20.
Adamson has clinched
15 titles under her leadership, making her one of the most successful figures in collegiate softball. As the head coach of the RP Blu Girls, the national women’s softball team, Santiago continues to lead at the forefront of the sport in the country.
International Field
The Adamson Softball Team’s accolades do not end with UAAP, the girls are also making waves on the international stage. The San Marcelinobased softbelles are poised to make a significant impact on
the international softball scene.
Renowned for their skills and legacy, the Lady Falcons have consistently demonstrated their excellence, now representing the Philippines in the 4th Asian Universities Women’s Softball Asia Cup 2024 in Taichung, Taiwan.
The competition features top university teams across Asia including Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, and more. Certainly, this international experience will serve as their preparation in pursuit of a 12-peat in next year’s UAAP
Season 87 Softball Tournament. Their achievements serve as a reminder of the potential that lies within the program and the bright future that awaits them as they continue to represent the Philippines, currently positioned 18th in the world rankings.
The team never failed to prove that there is so much more to anticipate from them in the future, to make further record-breaking performances and competitive plays, both local and international.
ADU WBT UAAP S87 P4
Santos, both frontcourt players, were added to the lineup.
The Adamson Lady Falcons are now equipped with a lineup that boasts greater depth, Coach Monteclaro will now be seeking “more maturity” with all the experiences the squad has.
One of the key games
that highlighted their lack of experience was their second-round encounter against eventual champions University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigresses, last season.
After holding an 11-point lead in the third quarter, the Lady Falcons found
themselves trailing by just one point, 68-69, with three minutes left in the clock.
The San Marcelino-based squad then committed crucial turnovers that UST capitalized on, leading to a disappointing loss with a final score of 70-76.
On a positive note, their
wire-to-wire performance against a championship-caliber team just proves that the talent of the squad is there to compete fiercely with powerhouse lineups. Ultimately, it will just boil down to the maturity that the head coach expects. Whether it is a dark horse
run or a Cinderella run this season, nothing is impossible for the determined Lady Falcons to soar back into the Final Four as they aim to fly higher than ever before.
UAAP Media Team
Painting girls ‘B.A.D’ with Fast Rising R&B Sensation Denise Julia
Anthea Rae Grape
With modern society becoming more welcoming towards changes in traditional norms, one would think that women today have finally freed themselves from the suffocating confinement of gender roles and patriarchy — that their capabilities now receive as much regard as men’s.
However, many female artists in the musical landscape still struggle with misogyny, falling victim to ‘cancel culture’ for the most trivial reasons. Unlike their male counterparts, people are naturally quick to be less forgiving to anyone in heels. In fact, R&B hitmaker Denise Julia has become one of the living testaments that women exist to be unsolicitedly scrutinized by the public’s eye. A month after her album release, she was subjected to hatred so much so that people attacked her private life.
Looking back, the songstress’ journey to success started in 2022. This is after her lovestruck single, “NVMD,” dominated TikTok to elicit relatable stories of hollow romance from both local and international netizens. Her reach expanded even more with her mini-album debut, “Sweet Nothings (Chapter One),” featuring another viral-hit song, “B.A.D,” that KPOP idol Giselle of Aespa made even a dance cover to.Undeniably, the 22-yearold star is the next R&B queen with a top chart-worthy soundtrack. However, not everyone is pleased with how she allegedly “handled” her music productions behind closed doors.
Rumor has it that the young musician did not compensate the producers of “NVMD” — the song that cemented her position in mainstream music. This broke out last Janu-
ary 2024 on both Facebook and X, immediately following the singer’s album launch in late November.
Although it is only right to demand accountability from the female icon, many reacted negatively to the extent of body shaming, cyberbullying, and name calling the artist. Some labeled her as a “low version” of Ariana Grande, tainting her reputation in music.As compared to Skusta Clee, a Filipino Artist who also got viral for alleged “beat” issue, the male sensation did not suffer from these socalled consequences and was excused for the reason: “Lalaki kasi. ”Internationally, misogyny also persists with the likes of Kanye West ambushing Taylor Swift’s acceptance speech at 2009 MTV VMAs. Yet, people tolerate the man’s toxicity with or without public apology. Deejay, on the other
hand, has to explain herself and beg for forgiveness. In a private message posted on X, the “Butterflies” singer addressed the issue, stating that her legal team reached out to the producers, but got ignored by them. The thread also included screenshots of unread emails from her legal camp, clarifying that she had paid everyone involved with her album-making and that she continues to solve the matter at hand.
Succeedingly, listeners are fast to change their minds, streaming her music like nothing happened. One Facebook caption reads: “Denise Julia is cleared. Balik sa Pakikinig.”Just when everything falls into place, the young R&B songwriter finds herself again in a bad light after she released her sapphic track, “Sugar N’ Spice.” Due to it, her sexuality as a queer got invalidated, as
people started calling her a “queerbaiter.” As shallow as it seems, these verbal attacks are an indication of typical misogyny behavior. If we are to turn the tables, men are always entitled to a gentler treatment. They are celebrated for the bare minimum, while women have to make do with what little they have.
No matter how skilled a female artist is, her fate is bound to be preyed on by society. Like Denise Julia, and any ladies with dreams before her,
people find it easier to pin all wrongs to a dress than to a tux.
PSA: There are no two definitions for ‘strength’
Eirish Kreisher Victoria
Are you a fan of K-dramas, manhwas, mangas, anime, and Western shows? If so, then you are completely aware of the word “strength” and how they portray it.
These forms of entertainment have become an essential part of our lives, captivating us with their cinematic shots, artistic imagery, and compelling plots. However, there’s a catch.
Unfortunately, some members of the entertainment industry fall victim to unreasonable ideologies, and their art reflects those biases. Sexually biased depictions of characters are a prevalent issue in the industry, particularly in romance-themed movies or series where conflicts arise between two individuals of the same gender. The second lead is often portrayed as a villain, or, in most cases, a girl, while the other is the ideal love interest. Take, for instance, Han Seo Jun and Kang Soo-Jin, the second male and female leads of True Beauty, respectively. The former exhibits a bad boy personality, while the latter is portrayed as the real villain of the story.
While this “culture” might be amusing to some, it creates an imbalance in the portrayal of both genders, with the
second female lead often receiving hate while the second male lead gets the audience’s pity and attention.
The continuous portrayal of a second female lead as the villain, while the second male lead gets the pity and attention of the audience, raises questions about the equality in art portrayal of both genders. Although the pity for the second male lead adds an interesting element to the story, the second female lead only receives hate, creating a gender imbalance.
Even die-hard fans have noticed this contrast and have begun to applaud strong female leads who exude girl power and individualistic energy in addition to their chemistry with the main male lead or whatever love interest may emerge.
Take Rachel Yoo from the famous Korean drama “The Heirs” as an example. Fans were initially enraged by her schemes to steal the handsome, rich, and cold main male lead from the pitiful, poor college girl. But they soon noticed her dramatic aura, which led to her receiving larger roles in the future.
How about we question why some people believe that a girl’s love can turn violent if the guy she likes is into someone else? Love is not about possessing someone but about
expressing it to another. It’s absurd to think that love is about ownership. We need to challenge this notion and redefine what love truly means.
Moreover, the constant portrayal of a poor and weak female lead falling in love with the cold, rich male lead is not what viewers, especially in this generation, find interesting. It is often seen as toxic, especially when the female lead drastically chooses the cold main
lead, who often puts pranks on her to tease her into falling in love with him for the “butterflies” that it gives, rather than the caring second male lead, who cares for her welfare and gives her peace.
This is the very reason why psychology tells us that these butterflies are anxiety manifestations and not what we Filipinos call “kilig,” or love. It’s high time the entertainment
industry fosters an environment that respects and values all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation. The industry must strive for better representation and inclusivity in its content, addressing any discrimination or harassment promptly and effectively.
It’s time that we enjoy our favorite shows with a renewed sense of awareness and appreciation for equality and diversity.
Advocacies and their Platforms: The Contemporary Portrayal and Reception of the Society towards Girls’ Romance
The entertainment sector and LGBTQIA+ rights are two of the most prominent matters in our society. Irrespective of the topic, the entertainment industry remains one of the most controversial and vocal industries with its power to portray various societal structures and issues, including LGBTQIA+ issues, leaving a significant impact on the audience’s perception and understanding of these issues.
Take, for example, Paulo Ballesteros, Beatrice Gomez, and Ice Seguerra who collectively faced backlashes with their sexual identity as they rose to stardom. In the past few months, fol-
lowing the rise of individuality in Kathryn Bernardo after her breakup with her ex-boyfriend, Daniel Padilla, people have been quick to associate her future projects with another independent star, Nadine Lustre. Their fans delighted in their being together in a film project, to the point of being in a Girls’ Love (GL) or lesbian series.
Film director and screenwriter Sigrid Bernardo expressed her desire to direct a lesbian film with Kathryn and Nadine as the main leads, quoting the remake of the 1982 revolutionary film, “T-Bird at Ako” by veteran actresses Nora Aunor and Vilma Santos-Recto, portraying homosexual
contemporary themes. Vilma even applauded the idea, to which Nadine was delighted. She said that she is willing to collaborate with different people and roles. As long as the script is good, she’s interested in being part of it.
However, Nadine also emphasized the challenge to her, especially being uncomfortable with this kind of intimacy, which she needs to establish. She further stated her experience which led to this argument.
“Like kapag kahit kayo kayo na nga lang medyo nakakailang, ‘cause I had an experience before na may ganyan, that’s why I know that I’m really straight kasi naka-experience ako ng
ganyan,” Nadine pointed. Even so, she pointed out that she is always game for challenges, leaving it to the future for such projects. Various fans took to the internet to express their approval and disapproval of the proposed project. Some praised the “once in a lifetime” collaboration of Kathryn and Nadine, especially on the lesbian scene. This project is seen as a challenge that could potentially elevate the reputation of these two stars, propelling them towards greater success. There is also the classic concept of Celebrity Branding, wherein famous figures endorse products or advocacies, and Celebrity Politics, where a well-known personality uses their fame to win an election. Given the ideologies that shape our society, it’s not surprising that people tend to trust the opinions and decisions of famous personalities more than others.
Most noted that it would be better if they would team up for an action, thriller, or drama film where the two stars as sisters, as this is much more fitting for their chemistry. Moreover, the representation of the LGBTQIA+ community in the entertainment industry needs to be more about a real member of the community, to which some pointed out the lack of real representation.
Due to this, the rage of those advocating for, as members of the LGBTQIA+ community is not highlighted, and the script tends to lean toward more intimate scenes. Unfortunately, the masses responded to this by valuing the idea of two prominent actress-
es or actors indulging in intimacy. While it is a part of the art, people only see the boys’ and girls’ love media scenes as those in bed, kissing, or doing things that would increase the tension between two people. This leads to the wrong distinction that the queer community only fights for them to have the freedom for this kind of intimacy without being judged. People then tend to sexualize the idea of the LGBTQIA+. But that is not what the community is fighting for, but rather the freedom to freely express their individuality and emotions, the freedom to live out their lives and be a functioning member of society, with privileges, dignity, and opportunities to live out.
This might be a small matter to a normal straight member of society, especially to much older generations. But as the universe unfolds its wonders, we later on see how life is not about living with the normalized society, but rather about cultivating our moral compass that sees each person equally, with a soul that is entitled to accountability, dignity, and love.
Eirish Kreisher Victoria
Little limbs of comfort, little thorns of life
There is something strangely comforting about all things familiar. Whether it’s the mismatched patch on one’s safety blanket or the missing button on an emotional support doll, life appears so much gentler through the window of our little comfort zone.
As if the world bathes itself in a rose-colored tint, becoming more sensitive to our cries of vulnerability and frustrations about everything we’ve failed to be. Still, those decadeold wall cracks bear no expectations of us to perform.
We can lay on our bed for days or wallow in the sickly feeling of unproductivity. We can shout our hearts out, let the paintbrush dry, or get lost in ourselves, ghosting
everyone along the way.
Even with all that, the childhood stickers on the ceiling gleam as ever to remind us how it is okay to crumble in their presence. They provide a different kind of solace, as they always do, encouraging us to live in our own timeline.
While the ground sporting different cluttered clothing reflects our growth as a person or the lack thereof, every piece that makes up our refuge has entirely become a part of who we are — a consistent confidante throughout our silent wars. That is simply the beauty of living in an intimate bubble. It saves us from mental stress, potential heartaches, and speaks nothing but promises of contentment. This arrangement allows us to have
Hate in Disguise
By Niño Dominic V. Ronquillo
They say that jokes are halfmeant — well it truly is because a joke can never be formulated without a reason behind it. Using jokes as an excuse to express words that instill hate and bring harm toward people can never be valid.
Filipinos have always experienced racism, dating back to the Spanish colonization when they referred to us as “indios,” placing us at the bottom of society. We are racially targeted almost everywhere, from slurs to stereotypes and even blatant hate.
Looking at the other side of the coin, Filipinos can be racist too, especially the younger generations exposed to social media. This can take the form of using the n-word for people with darker complexions or
African-American descent, subtly disguised as jokes, or mocking Chinese people by imitating their language, disguised as memes.
Memes are an internet culture, incorporating texts within pictures or videos to pose a meaning that may fit someone’s humor, especially Gen Z and Alpha, who often lack awareness and has adequate social and historical education.
What happens is that, due to this culture becoming the norm, the content it brings is also perceived as normal. So when these discriminatory memes are widespread among young people on the internet, it creates the perception that these jokes are acceptable because they are funny and portrayed as humor.
By Anthea Rae Grape
a sense of control over our fate, forbidding uncertainties from plaguing our being. Security-wise, the most logical action to take here is to stay within it. Going beyond its protection only means shattering the fragile illusion of peace we have grown accustomed to over the years. What good even comes out of the unknown?
Out there is a scary and foreign place; one far too different from the smoothsailing life we have led. There is only that constant nagging of anxiety, pushing us toward the edge of the cliff and giving us no choice but to jump right off. Everything would have been so much easier without the pressure to leave our safe corner. However, it
would be predictable to the point that we no longer have something to look forward to.
The thing is — all thrill resides in the unexpected. In the adrenaline rush in our chest, we h ope for the best out of that one careless leap. Naturally, our instincts crave danger like moths do fire, and so we live just to burn ourselves every night for the impossible, praying desperately for it to materialize during the day.
No matter how much we deny it, that feeling of excitement about what will happen next feeds our soul and keeps our sanity in check. In fact, we only cling to familiarity because we are afraid of disappointments, of realizing that we are incapable. But those are all in our
heads. Once we take that risk, make that first move, or shift into that dream course, we will realize that the fall isn’t high enough to break us.
In the grand scheme of things, we are just overanalyzing everything and making excuses not to show up. The bubble of warmth unconsciously becomes a cage that deprives us of the wonders of life.
While it is true that our comfort zone shelters us from external judgment, it also robs us of our humanity to feel and learn from our mistakes. After all, going through the day is draining enough; we owe it to ourselves to be more forgiving and make the most out of it. Because, indeed, change is scary, but so is living with regrets.
This doesn’t just apply to the online world; these behaviors can spill into reality, where people may casually use racist slurs or perform actions that mock other races’ cultures, which is alarming due to how normalized it has become.
Although the K to 12 program in the country teaches social sciences in Senior High School, the problem is that this is mostly taught in the Humanities and Social Sciences track. The Junior High School curriculum primarily focuses on the general history of our country and the world. Who do we blame for this? Is it the education system, the parents, or the ignorance of the people themselves?
Hate in Disguise > P12
By Ricardo Miguel H. Tecala
Beyond the smile “To Dream, as a Bionic Man”
By Eirish Kreisher Victoria
In one way or another, all of us have gone through or witnessed a storm. If it happens in a major city or affects numerous households, countless reports flood in, and one of the significant things highlighted is how Filipinos are still smiling and “resilient” in the face of it.
On top of that, we are also known for our great hospitality, smiling and “welcoming” foreigners. No wonder the Philippines ranked second among the happiest Southeast Asian countries in the 2024 World Happiness Report by the University of Oxford’s Wellbeing Research Center. This places us 53rd out of the 143 states in question — the “Filipino Spirit,” as they say.
You will rarely see a Filipino’s frown, as smiles are often plastered on our faces.
But do these smiles indicate genuine joy? When we stand up, do we stand up better or just suffer further? As we generously welcome guests, is our nation still our home?
Hate in Disguise > P11
It is a mixture of shortcomings and ignorance. Instilling awareness and education is the first step to mending this situation but most
Resilience is the ability to recuperate or adjust easily from a great change or impact. As Filipinos, we are recognized for displaying this, yet we often disregard the elements that make up the full meaning of the word.
Filipinos may have survived incidents and calamities throughout the years. But more often than not, they do not improve to a state of readiness for the next storm. Some even struggle or fail to spring back to their original state.
While some may have used these encounters as opportunities for growth, they often do so independently, neglecting the idea of suggesting or asking the authorities for organized support. As we do this, we go our separate ways, venturing into our specialized areas and forgetting that all things in our world work hand-inhand to create the sustainable life that fits best for all of us.
Slowly, through the course of history, it shows how the
importantly, it is the parents who must educate their children in the first place. Even parents themselves may be unaware or simply ignore the fact that what they say or do is racist.
Racism in the Philippines
labels “welcoming, united, hospitable,” and others that supposedly make us a “community” are often a misnomer. As we embrace the idea of being united, we overlook that this concept involves embracing the identity of each community member, whether it is a strength or a weakness. This requires complete awareness and management of our opportunities and weaknesses to stand up against any threats that may come.
Consider artists, who often use blank spaces to highlight a void and calm the tension within a piece. However, it is fundamentally understood that a pure blank space — without the wise utilization of textures and resources, the proper management of element blending, and a complete awareness of the whole idea — is not art. The same goes for those in authority.
is a highly disregarded topic due to people being victims of it in the first place. One tends to think that they are in the right just because they identify themselves as minorities too.
A skin complexion, a
In the 21st century, artificial intelligence (AI) is a familiar presence in our lives. But what if I told you that, back in 1999, there was a science fiction comedy-drama film about a robot who discovers his own consciousness?
This film, starring none other than Robin Williams, was both multi-awarded and Academy Award-nominated.
In it, a robot named Andrew goes beyond his programming as a household helper and begins to understand that he is more than just a machine. He develops a distinct personality, has intentions and feelings, and even longs for a relationship — an unusual and perplexing journey for a robot.
At some point in our lives, we may all feel as Andrew did — having a planted dream but never understanding its purpose in our lives. Some of us dare to chase it, only to be met with the storms it brings.
body feature, or the way one pronounces certain words should never be a reason to mock someone. It is never a joke, and it always harms how people live.
As someone who has access to the internet, it’s essential
By Eirish Kreisher Victoria
Fortunately for Andrew, his “upgrades” allowed him to adopt human-like facial expressions, skin, and eventually a central nervous system. These changes bring him closer to fulfilling his dream of living out his humanity.
But at the end of the day, his identity remains that of a bionic being.
Just like Andrew, we might prepare ourselves to pursue our dreams, only to find that unexpected detours push us to alter our plans. We might even realize one day that we were never truly ready for what lay ahead.
The silver lining is that readiness isn’t the goal. What truly matters is being brave — embracing the purpose that shines from within us. Andrew, despite the looming threat of death, chose to embark on a journey toward humanity. He acknowledged and celebrated it, emerging victorious not only in his destination but also in the journey itself.
to educate yourself and be aware that victimhood does not justify perpetuating harm. We all have a responsibility to break the chain of ignorance and prejudice, even if we are considered victims ourselves.
Pulling the roots of SADness
Niño Dominic Ronquillo
It’s that melancholic feeling popping up once again — you’re sluggish, down, having difficulty concentrating. What’s worst, is that you can’t pinpoint the cause every time it troubles you each year.
One could paint experiencing the occasional blues as plain laziness, or bad behavior in general. But newsflash! Acting unlike your usual self can be due to Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD.
Formally described by Psychiatrist Norman E. Rosenthal and his colleagues back in 1984, the mental disorder is a type of depression sparked by changes in season. It has two types, namely winter SAD and summer SAD.
Researchers are still determining what causes SAD, but clinical Psychologist Kelly Rohan expressed to the New York Times that a shift in one’s biological clock is a leading theory as to why Winter SAD is triggered.
He explained that the levels of our sleep hormone melatonin lowers during sunrise to help people wake up. However, the melatonin lingers a little longer due to the prolonged night and low light levels — making us more tired and sleepy.
In contrast, individuals with summer-pattern Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) may experience lower melatonin levels, as extended daylight, shorter nights, and elevated temperatures can further disrupt sleep and lead to symptoms similar to depression.
According to the National Institution of Mental Health (NIMH), Seasonal Affective Disorder is a cycle that could last up to four to five months as people experience mood changes due to the shorter days in fall and winter.
Winter-pattern SAD can cause a person to oversleep, overeat, and make one resort to withdraw socially. While, Rosenthal
suggests that summer SAD is more of an “agitated” depression, as it causes a person to exhibit anxiety, aggressive behavior, insomnia, and poor appetite that leads to weight loss.
Light therapy and vitamin D are effective treatments for winter-pattern SAD, while psychotherapy and antidepressants are used more broadly for depression, including both winter- and summer-pattern SAD. There aren’t any treatments specifically designed for summer-pattern SAD but it can be remedied through taking cold showers and staying in chilly places.
Even though the Philippines do not experience winter, the rainy season and ber-months can still induce winter pattern-SAD to Filipinos due to frequent rain showers, cloudy skies, and shorter daylight hours. On the other hand, as tropical countries are on the warmer side, it
often experiences a slightly overlooked summer pattern-SAD caused by heat, humidity, and pollen that triggers allergies.
The continuous rise in global temperature now poses a risk to the mental health of Filipinos, as the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) alerted that the heat index in the country could go up to 52 degrees Celsius, reaching the level of ‘extreme danger.’
Additionally, CNN reported that a study done in the United States and Mexico reveal that a rise of 1 degree Celsius in average monthly temperatures was linked to a 0.68% increase in the monthly suicide rate in the US from 1968 to 2004, and a 2.1% increase in Mexico from 1990 to 2010.
“That to us suggests at least there’s a plausible biological linkage between temperature, thermal regulation and how the
brain regulates its own emotion,” shared Marshall Burke, an assistant professor in the Department of Earth System Science at Stanford University and lead author of the study.
Raising awareness to this mental illness is the first step in coping. It helps a person to acknowledge that he/she has it. Tackling SAD can help people monitor their moods to help cure or even prevent the said disease.
It is important to remember to acknowledge yourself and other people that suffers from mental illness in general. It should be a reminder to everyone that depression is not a patient’s choice. As justified by Seasonal Affective Disorder, mental health problems have roots and causes, one cannot blame themselves on what nature brings to its inhabitants.
Angel Audrey Datur
Sophia, the abused victims’ ally
Keziah Faith Lipit
Domestic violence is an endemic problem where in the end, women are made to feel guilty and alone.
About 736,000,000 women experience abuse globally. In data, this shows about *one in three women* experience physical and sexual abuse atleast once in their lives. With less than only 40% of these women seeking the courage to ask for help, fewer than 10% are reported to the police.
In 2019, Israel was shaken by the tragic murder of Michal Sela, a social worker who was stabbed to death by her own husband. Michal’s sister, Lili Ben Ami, started the initiative to use technology as a tool to help prevent further domestic violence cases.
Michal’s case was later featured in a campaign that employed artificial intelligence developed in Israel to bring back pictures of her and other victims where they share their first-person
stories and encourage others to leave in those situations and seek help before it’s too late.
Shiran Mlamdovsky Somech, who works behind this campaign, later on collaborated with Spring ACT, along with international human rights lawyer Rhiana Spring, have recently launched “*Sophia*,” the world’s first interactive domestic abuse chatbot.
Now, Michal, and many other women’s stories, live and are immortalized in *Sophia*.
Introduced in Quezon City just last November, Sophia offers a safe space for victims in navigating these situations and reaching for crucial support.
Mayor Joy Belmonte is taking a ground-breaking initiative to lead the country in incorporating AI and its service to people, especially in these challenges.
Sophia is designed to allow its users to be inter-
acted 24/7 with respect and sensitivity to understand the complexities of domestic abuse. She also offers a user-centric technology that allows the victims to document abuse and connect with nearest local resources like shelters, hotlines, and legal aid.
Lastly, Sophia’s anonymity feature advises the victims on what they need to know if they plan on leaving the situation immediately, knowing where they are, who they are with, and how to find help.
Quezon City’s commitment in utilizing technology to address societal issues reflects their launch on AI Chatbot Sophia. While this type of program cannot replace human interaction alongside professional intervention, she still serves as a beacon of hope in the fight of domestic violence.
Angel Audrey Datur
No one will know Juan
Charles David Sebatna
In the outskirts of the Pearl of the Orient, Came the Hispanic carracks, with imperial force. Religious dominance with Magellan’s advent, Catholicism stands strong as their sacred course.
Soon after, Western culture echoed, Through the engines of naval ships. Together with the promise of freedom from the shallows, Emerged along with a clandestine plan that dripped.
And when the Land of Technology appeared ablaze, Scorching the traditional nipa huts, Folk tales gradually burned down to ashes, Shifting it to anime’s golden dust.
Each day a heatwave, each night a blizzard, To escape from this torment, a dismal path.
In the land where modern hospitality flows freely, Gushed by the invaders, a historical decree
Amid the cyclone
season, a soul torn asunder, For he was lost in the waves that made him constantly surrender. His feet were anchored deep, stretching it far and wide, Caught by the strong current, where a school of Lionfish hide.
Juan has always stood for his land, bold and true, Despite taking damages, his spirit remains a vibrant hue. But as time weaves through the grace of bamboo,
The patriot laments, its own heritage askew.
There emerged the parasites, whose presence lives after the drought, Draining his blood, gradually, without a doubt. Consuming his essence, a slow, silent fray, Where Juan’s identity eventually faded away.
His name softly drifted in the breeze, Caught in modernity’s cold, he did freeze.
Stuck in today’s time, he asked the sun, “Why is it that no one will know Juan?”
Maaraw sa Umaga, Umuulan sa Gabi
Adam Mustafa
Daig pa ang barakong kape sa init na batid ng umaga. Init na tumutunaw ng klarong pag-iisip ng isang alipin ng Diyos.
Ang kaniyang sinag ay inaabot, pati ang pinakatagong sulok ay kaniyang pinagmamasdan. Hingil sa lakas ng kaniyang lingas.
Wala raw nakakapigil o wala raw pinoproblema angmaywangisngliwanagngaraw.
Dahil sa unang tingin,
tila mabubulag ka sa sobrang tingkad ng kaniyang tanawin.
Ngunit, kahit ang pinakamainit na araw ay lumulubog din sa pagsalubong ng buwan.
Dala nito ang armas ng mga ulap na pilit sinasakop ang pwesto ng mga bituin.
Pagkatapos nilang itatag ang kanilang imperyo, ay tila tatahimik ang langit sa nalalapit.
Kumakalam na ang sikmura ng hangin, maya-maya pa ay babagsak na ang kanilang bala.
Mga bala nilang imbis na nakamamatay ay minsan pa’y hinihiling at kinakailangan. Sapagkat walang sino man ang kayang pantayan ang liwanag ng langit.
Ang langit na ginawa ang tao para mabuhay, mamatay. Mga taong may lakas, may kahinaan, at may emosyon. Kung kaya’t ang sino mang pinipilit maging liwanag, ay bubuhos din pagsapit ng hapunan.
Heaven Audrey Nicole Narce
Shiena Marie Palisan
When I was a child, I remember how I would always cry out for food when I was hungry. When I find the food bad, I would either whine or ignore it. Nevertheless, I grew to not blame the food for its taste.
As a child, I thought I could get what I wanted and cried to show my dislikes. Yet, when yearning for a calm and wise voice to care for me and teach me what I need to do, all I ever heard was an angry growl. Even for the times I cried for help or from pain. Instead of trying to solve or help me process each tear falling down my eyes, I was left with a beating voice telling me to stop crying and that I shouldn’t be doing so.
Are they offended by how I feel? Isn’t a person supposed to feel all aspects of their lives? Can’t I be hurt by the wrong things done unto me, or solely must I only feel the need to correct something?
All those years of concealment trapped me with
A Dagger for the Love God
Anthea Rae Grape
Some place in between the Heaven and Earth, the Love God strips off his title to tinker away, with miscalculated soulmates and broken romantics.
He appears as a mere servant to mankind, devoting his immortality to untangle the red strings of fate, to weave newer ones with strength akin to that of Hercules.
In his haunted closed chamber, Eros cut his heart to bits, to feed the restless ghosts desperate for love and being too, like vultures preying on dead meat.
my own wooden door, hiding my light from others as they claimed how their eyes hurt from it.
Through time, I continuously tried to heal myself, to let time do its magic. But each time that I try to mend my traumas, every time that I try to move on and out of that situation, I end up with the same set of questions. Again.
One day, I was walking the usual street to go home, when I heard a piercing sound. A whistle that any human would be startled to hear. So, in my guilt, I called the police, reporting the haunting experience I had.
As I processed each moment, the police officer tried to interrogate me.
Shivering and traumatized, I answered each question.
“Can you tell me the details of the attempted harassment? Why do you think the harassment took place?”
The officer asked. I still couldn’t process anything, so I just shook my head in disfavor. As far as my body trembled, I couldn’t render everything in a glimpse.
Until the officer asked me something that caused me to burst into tears. “Perhaps you provoked him? Have you been flirting with him? Or did you show some skin?” He asserted.
In disbelief. I was the victim! This is unfair! Why do people always investigate whether the victim did something to become one, but not the suspect if they did something to be one?
Why do we choose to scrutinize a tear through a piercing voice and force?
Since when did people forget the purpose of a cloth?
A cloth to caress. A cloth to gently keep a burning heart, crying for love. A cloth that once held a baby with loving arms and caring smiles.
They wring out all crumbs of feeling from the flesh, settling for whatever they can find warm enough, that can fill the void and make them feel wanted.
In each feast, their souls remain ablaze for more, always begging, always mourning, yet always just… there. Eternally suspended somewhere in between Heaven and Earth.
With no luck to experience love and to be loved, these lingering ghosts waste years wallowing in self-pity, doomed to question everything they are and are not. While Eros gets away
with second chances to undo all his erroneous matchmaking, they are only given one shot at love, but many to come at pain.
And they blame themselves for simply lacking, when that should not be the case. They are not supposed to be beggars or a mere footnote at someone else’s romance. They are to be given more than that, while the Love God must wound himself to pull out his misfired arrows, and realign the stars to create a love everyone deserves.smiles.
To wipe one’s tear
Ken Francine Iran
Eirish Kreisher Victoria
Nicole Domingo