In the ethereal expanse where the wandering spirit takes flight during the realm of reverie, a boundless trail unfolds, veering toward an elusive horizon.
Through the vast reaches of the psyche, the intrepid soul at times confronts a path shrouded in thicket, shadows, and the enigmatic. There, one discovers the self in a silent dialogue with one’s deepest fears, entwined within the tapestry of one’s own haunting dreams.
No reins hold sway over the ethereal force that clasps our throats, yet we strive to break free, lingering beneath its pervasive influence. However far we journey, the undeniable truth remains – we navigate the sleepwalking reality of an unrelenting nightmare.
Open your eyes, release the constraints that guide you, and in your awakening, perhaps catch a glimpse of the liberating horizon.
All rights reserved.
THE SOIL TILLER
The official student publication of Bulacan Agricultural State College
EDITORIAL BOARD
Thracy DafielmoTo | Editor-in-Chief
Princess ira sarmienTo | Associate Editor
chronica Villaseñor | Managing Editor for Administration
WenDy mae Guerrero | Managing Editor for Finance
hassel B. reyes | Managing Editor for Circulations
DEPARTMENT HEADS
maila GalanG, rafael selDa | News Editors
John riel GaGula, eliJah manGulaBnan | Features Editors
Geliza Jaslen eloPre | Development Communication Editor Jhon Paul roce, charles suliT | Literary Editors
erlie DaWn B. laTuJa, eliseo Dela cruz | Head Graphic Artists reGina De san Jose | Head Layout Artist
marie KaTherine Palar, ryan GaBriel DominGo | Head Photojournalists
SENIOR STAFF
BaBylyn GochanGco, anToneTTe c. Delos sanTos, anDrei PaminTuan, marK Joshua sunGa, Jhacelle rhoBie suarez, mariane cruz, Joel PeralTa, emmanuel malonGa, James raymonD razo, Jaymie Delos sanTos
JUNIOR STAFF
VincenT TaDeo, BelinDa sanTos, charlene GaBrielle ausTria, Van laWrence m umerez
PROBATIONARY STAFF
Paula concePcion, Kier Paulo salVaDor, Daniel menDoza, Vanne luDWiG francisco, chrisTell Joy GlePo, Genesis menDoza, JoVilyn DariaGan, Glenn laurence menDoza, Karlos enrique BorBaJo, ryan chrisTian loria, John lloyD reGala
maria arJie T. DominGo | aDViser
Editor’s Notes Table
Enigmatic — how nightmares stem from our subconscious, a manifestation of our buried emotions and unsaid thoughts that often morph to the form of what we fear the most. Their origins are a mystery, their meanings confusing, and sometimes they forebode evil.
Those nightmares, terrifying and vivid, always have its arm wrapped around us whenever we are in slumber. The moment it creeps to disturb our sleep, we are always helpless under its influence. Nightmares happen, and we have no freedom to choose what would be the next one to haunt us — no matter how much we try to stop them.
In a country infested by immorality, inequality, political unrest, mass manipulation, social epidemic, and continuous socio-economic misery, it seemed that we are living in a nightmare we do not have any control of. But ironically, no matter how much we think of it as a nightmare that would soon end, we realize it’s the reality we are living in.
The only way for us to escape is to be awake, to resist and not fully succumb to its power. The moment we open our eyes and choose to face head-on and fight our own nightmares, be it from our personal fear or the farther society, will only then be the moment of truly freeing ourselves.
The Soil Tiller speak. write. be true. be free.
Masasalahula ang kinabukasan ng bansa kung kakawkawin ng mga naghuhugas-kamay ang mga karapatan ng taong bayan.
Hindi kuno prayoridad ngunit bumigay na rin sa nakalolokong indayog ng Charter Change o Cha-Cha ang Senado matapos magbigay ng mandato si Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos Jr. na dapat nilang pangunahan ang usapin sa pag-aamyenda ng Saligang Batas.
Matinding gitgitan at desperadong taktika na ang inihahain sa mga tao para lamang maisulong ang matagal nang pilit ipinasusubong ChaCha. Nito lamang ay naglipana ang ‘di umano’y pangongolekta ng pirma sa mga barangay para suportahan ang pagbabago sa 1987 Constitution kapalit ng bigas o P100 na galing din naman sa kaban ng bayan— pa-consuelo de bobo para bilugin ang ulo ng mga tao.
gumugulong ang Cha-Cha ngunit kunot-noo pa rin ang karamihan pagdating sa usaping ito. Ayon sa ulat ng Pulse Asia survey noong nakaraang taon, 41% ng mga Pilipino ang pabor sa pagpapalit ng 1987 Constitution ngunit marami sa kanila ang katiting lamang ang alam sa mangyayaring pagbabago sa sistema; sasabay kahit buholbuhol at sali-saliwa ang tonong nalalaman. May tatlong paraan upang baguhin ang konstitusyon ng bansa: Constituent Assembly (CONASS) o kongreso ang maghahain ng pagbabago, Constitutional Convention (CON-CON) o iba’t ibang sektor ng lipunan ang magpo-propose na baguhin ang konstitusyon, at People’s Initiative kung saan taong bayan mismo ang maghahain ng pagbabago sa Saligang Batas.
kagandang pakinggan ang
HUWAG BIBIGAY SA SINDAK NG CHA-CHA
People’s Initiative ay s’yang ikinabulok ng hangarin nito. Hindi ito ang boses ng masa kung hindi ang sakim na pagngawa ng mga kongresista. Malinaw ang maduming layunin ng kampanyang “Pera kapalit ng pirma para sa People’s Initiative”, palibhasa’y sanay na sanay na sa pagbili ng boto ng madla. Pinagmumukhang publiko mismo ang may gusto pero may patagong gulangan at panunuhol. Nagmistulan namang asin sa sugat ang naging panawagan ng People’s Initiative for Reform, Modernization and Action (PIRMA) sa kanilang TV commercial na “gawing saligang patas ang saligang batas.” Natuklap
kamalayan at kakayahang mamulat ng taong bayan.
Bukod pa rito, hindi na rin makawawala sa gapos ng kapitalismo ang sektor ng mga manggagawa kung magpapatuloy ang tugtog ng ChaCha. Isa ang economic provisions sa nilalayong amyendahan kung saan tuluyan nang bubuksan ang ekonomiya ng Pilipinas sa dayuhang pamumuhunan. Paparelisahin ng mga oportunista ang mga industriya, magiging tuta na lamang ang mga Pilipino sa sariling bansa. Habang sagana’t lumalaki ang kanilang mga tyan, maiiwang kapos at kumakalam ang sikmura ng bayan. Ika sa kanta, “habang
kinikilingang hustisya upang itakwil at huwag lunukin ang mapanlinlang na ChaCha. Puwing sa mata ng masa ang nakabubulag na kasinungalingang konstitusyon umano ang nagsasaldak sa bansa kaya’t dapat itong baguhin. Kalayaan at karapatan ng mga tao ang malalapastangan kung sakaling interes ng mga gahaman ang papaboran.
“
Ang konstitusyon ay hindi ibinebenta kaya’t huwag ipagbili ang karapatan kapalit lamang ng mumunting ayuda. Ang pera o bigas na makukuha ay kapiranggot lamang ng yaman ng mga huwad na lingkod bayan, walangwala sa kaya nilang nakawin hindi lamang sa kaban kung hindi pati sa kalayaan ng bansa.
RSK Elections: A Glimpse of People’s Ignorance
Rille
endering grave responsibilities to someone obviously not at the helm of governing is just a proof of idiocy.
As the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) took off last October 30, 2023 through Republic Act No. 10742, also known as the Sangguniang Kabataan Reform Act of 2015, it allows the youth age ranges from fifteen (15) to thirty (30) years old as defined in Republic Act No. 8044 to run and participate in the community as officials. It is ironic how people allow officials to have a position in any organization and governing bodies
Nation builders is the term we use to describe the educators who shape the next generation of Filipinos. But with all the lousy and flimsy materials they have been given to build a so-called skyscraper that will ultimately prove to be frail and clearly destined to fall and fail, what type of foundation will be unveiled?
It has been more than a decade since the K-12 curriculum program was introduced in the Philippines. However, Vice President Sara Duterte, the Secretary of Department of Education (DepEd), launched the revised Matatag Curriculum that is anticipated to tackle the problems plaguing the education system. After eating, enduring, and ingesting the half-baked educational experimentation of a scheme called K-12 impulsively implemented in the Philippine educational system 11 years ago, the higher-ups are back with another fanciful idea that is bound to repeat the distasteful history of K-12. While on the surface level, the Matatag Curriculum is for the greater good, just like the K-12 on its first flight to the education system,
without having a background check and condemning their performances after. They chose those candidates who are now standing in front of a lot of people, sharing their scripted mellifluous speeches but were once the root cause of every trouble. Still, the issue about credibility over fame of officials is still burning as well as the audacity of the society criticizing politicians which they voted for due to ignorance and greediness.
Filipino voters must understand that asking candidates to disclose their credentials during the election process provides opportunity to evaluate their
leadership potential. One Bulacan Agricultural State College student disapproved of the barangay SK elections, saying the SK chairman was elected despite not presenting credentials due to his wide connections, fame, and ‘lousy campaign ads all over the Barangay’. Students must complete activities, surprise quizzes, exams, and performance tasks. These standards are simply the tip of SK officials’ duties. Another BASC student criticized how SK Councilor was elected despite being late to school and unable to complete schoolwork. A leader who pledges to serve yet fails in school distresses the kids. However, some student leaders maintain their reputation.
One of the SK councilors in Brgy. Maronquillo, San Rafael, Bulacan and a BASC student said that being a student leader for almost two years and implementing her Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness Management helped her accomplish her barangay leadership duties. Sangguniang Kabataan governs and elects the next president. They need empowerment, decisiveness, and resilience.
Frail Curriculum: Fall and Fail
scratching over the wallpapers of pretension will reveal the termiteinfested structure of it. The Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) Philippines Secretary General, Raymond Basilio, noted that the country should learn from what happened with other curricular programs, particularly the K-12 program, which all failed as a result of DepEd’s “top-down approach.”
On the contrary, DepEd Secretary, Vice President Sara Duterte, stated that the revised K-10 curriculum, or Matatag Curriculum, is intended to close the learning gap among Filipino students. This move
comes in reaction to the country’s continued poor performance in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), where the Philippines placed 77th out of 81 countries globally in the student assessment for learners aged 15 years old.
The base of this infrastructure was long and rickety with the unresolved crisis and problems that will plague and inevitably bring the fall of everything with it. The lack of educational materials, the congested and overcrowded classrooms, and even the absence
If students’ leaders don’t exhibit these attributes before the election, the country won’t have the same privileges, and power abuse is more evident than success. Some are born leaders, while others are shaped over time. Also, citizens must be critical, investigators, and judges on how to elect leaders. Elected authorities might act or chill out when bothering the people. Student officials need not be held to high standards. Citizens must evaluate candidates who want their trust and votes.
“
In a period where money and power tempt individuals, credibility always loses. People’s irrationality in choosing leaders will make them vulnerable tomorrow.
of learning facilities are some of the prerequisites before dreaming of such leaps. The suggestion that subjects be combined to avoid redundancy and take off the loads from students and teachers might seem like good intentions but will only result in overworked teachers who need to adjust once again to accommodate the shift in the system of education.
It has been a long-pressing issue that people in higher-up positions have impulsive decisions that are not grounded in the reality presented by the system. Teachers, students, parents, and other stakeholders should be heard before making such modifications, as they are the ones who actively live and craft the foundation of this infrastructure.
These detached solutions will undoubtedly cause the failure and fall of this frail curriculum.
Wendy Mae Guerrero
Deux ex Machina
Geliza Jazlen Elopre
KWalang
Kadala-Dala
Perlucidus
Chronica Villaseñor
ung patuloy na isasalang at patatakbuhin ang pilay na sistema ng edukasyon, ano pa ang aasahan kung hindi ang pangungulelat nito.
Sa ikalawang pagkakataon, muli na namang lumagapak ang Pilipinas sa nakaraang 2022 Programme for International Student Assessment o PISA kung saan mula sa 81 na mga bansang kasali, nasa ika-77 ang bansa pagdating sa pagbabasa, matematika, at siyensya.
Walang pagbabago, nananatiling mababa at bagsak ang kalidad ng edukasyon na mayroon ang Pilipinas. Hindi lamang nito sinasalamin ang uri at sistemang mayroon ang bansa kundi pati na rin ang aksyon at interbasyong ginagawa ng gobyerno upang kahit papaano’y maiangat ito mula sa pagkakalugmok.
Equal rights for equal fights.
A drag artist, Pura Luka Vega is facing an administrative case and declared Persona Non Grata in several locations in the country just from doing her craft; the fruition of this artform in our country took a long and rough drive, especially when it was flocked with criticisms from traditionalist and conservativethinking people. Religious groups are condemning it as an alleged and considered blasphemous act against their belief. Notwithstanding, a Freedom of Expression by the “book”.
Pura Luka is just using her rights to express; as independently showcasing her own way of doing things as a drag artist and a Christian worshiper. Those people who were affected by her actions also have the rights to express their insights but are limited to their insights only and not surpassing the Freedom of Expression or FOE line.
It is true that even FOE is a foundational right, it is not absolute, it has its own limits. Drag itself
Ngunit sa nakalipas na halos tatlong taon, walang ibang napatunguhan ang bulag na pagpapatakbo at ang lahat ay nauwi sa pagtuturo kung ano at sino ang dapat na sisihin.
Hindi na dapat pang pagtakhan ang ganitong resulta. Ayon sa Department of Education, inaasahan na nila ang mababang ranking ng Pilipinas lalo na’t bukod sa nagdaang pandemya, problema na rin ng mga nagdaang administrasyon ang pagkatuto ng mga estudyante. Matagal ng isyu ngunit hanggang ngayon ay hindi pa rin natututo at nadadala ang gobyerno. Paulit-ulit na lamang ang ganitong sitwasyon kaya’t paulit-ulit na lang din ang resulta.
Bakit pa magnanais ng mataas na performance ang bansa kung pagdating pa lamang sa suportang natatanggap ng mga mag-aaral, guro,
has its own derivatives that might be mistakenly considered as hate speech but in the case of Pura, it is the die hard religious entities who were hit and started throwing unsullied remarks onto the artist. Likewise, due to the unnecessary hate being thrown at the LGBTQIA+ community here in this country, it was a piece of cake for the majority to justify their beliefs and opinions towards the community and conclude that Pura’s performance was purely offensive and blasphemous.
How do we find the urge to defend the doctrines of the church if we, ourselves, try to cover our own dirt inside the cloth we wore that tries to cover the immoralities we own? For us to be righteous we are tasked to act good, do welfare to others, show sympathy and most importantly to humble ourselves for each of us is not above perfection. More than this, it should give us the context of looking at our own dirt right before we judge another person’s dirt. What is visible to our own eyes is not always visible to our
at paaralan ay tipid na tipid na. Hindi pa rin nagagawang matuldukan ang patong-patong na mga problema pagdating sa kakulangan ng mga klasrum, mababang sahod ng mga guro, at isama pa rito ang kagutuman at kahirapan. Kung hindi sirasira, madalas ay tagpi-tagpi ang nagsisilbing silid-aralan ng mga estudyanteng nasa mga liblib na lugar. Hindi na nga naaabot ng tulong, madalas pang nakalilimutan at napagiiwanan.
Pagdating naman sa mga guro, dalawa lang ang landas na madalas nilang tinatahak: magtiis o umalis. Bukod sa mga tambak na gawain, madalas pang nasisisi ang mga guro sa tuwing nagkakaroon ng problema sa pagkatuto ang mga bata. Sa halip na mismong gobyerno ang umako, sila ang nagiging panangga sa mga daliring nanunuro. Kung nakababawi lamang sa sahod, makababawas sana ito sa bigat na kanilang nararamdaman. Ika nga ng iba, hindi ang pagtuturo ang nakapapagod, kundi ang sahod na nakapagpapasuko.
Sa tagal ng pagkakalugmok ng sektor ng edukasyon, nasa pageeksperimento pa rin ang gobyerno.
Sa katunayan, lumalabas na lima hanggang anim na taong delay ang Pilipinas kumpara sa ibang bansa. Kung hindi hilaw, matabang at hindi
naman pumapasa sa panlasa ng mga guro’t mag-aaral ang hinahain at pilit nilang ipinasusubong solusyon. Bukod sa nakapapaso, wala ring kasiguraduhan na ang dire-diretso nitong paglunok ay magdudulot ng pagbabago.
May ilan mang iniaalok na paraan, hindi ito sapat upang mapunan ang gutom at kumakalam na pag-aasam ng pag-angat ng kalidad ng edukasyon lalo’t lahat ng ito’y nagiging panawid lamang. Habang nananatiling bulag ang pagpapatakbo at nagpapatakbo, wala itong patutunguhang direksyon. Babalik at iikot pa rin sa mga problemang hindi na nga nasosolusyonan, mas lalo pang madadagdagan.
Kung hindi agad maaaksyunan, pagbagsak at hindi na lamang basta pagkapilay ang ating masasaksihan.
Indeed a Freedom of Expression
Aries Blue
John Riel Gagula
own understanding. Nonetheless, this event opens a lot of doors of concern to converse. Freedom of Expression is the blood of democracy and every country needs its ideology. FOE grants equity, bestows equal power for everybody and most importantly gives the minority adequate right to express against the prejudice of the masses. FOE is a vital driving force to call out and amplifies overwhelmed voices that were shut by many. The sanctity of free expression offers a lifeline to the marginalized, empowering them to speak their
truths, challenge prevailing norms, and shape the societal narrative. It serves as a beacon illuminating the path towards inclusivity, allowing the minority to share experiences, grievances, and aspirations without fear of repression.
Protecting Pura is also safeguarding and nurturing this freedom not only protecting the rights of the minority but also fortifies the very essence of democracy, fostering a society that thrives on the chorus of varied voices and perspectives.
TDahop sa Sustansyang Lunas
Ber Lustum
Genesis Mendoza
aon-taon ang pagdaing ng masang Pilipino sa sakit ng tiyan na sinegundahan naman ng sarbey mula sa Social Weather Station (SWS) kung saan sa pagtatapos ng 2023, 12.6% ng mga Pilipino ang nakararanas ng gutom. Ang itinuturong ‘di mapatid-patid na ugat ng problema: inflation.
Walang Gutom 2027, panibagong remedyo ng gobyerno upang malunasan ang mataas na bilang ng gutom sa bansa. Bahagi ito ng ideyalistikong agenda ng gobyerno na tinatawag na Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 kung saan isa sa mga layunin ay seguridad
Gaano man magpakakuba ang mga ordinaryong Pilipino sa paghahabol ng kota upang kumita ng nanliliit na minimum wage na naglalaro sa kulang apat na raan kada araw, tutuwid at tutuwid ang kanilang likod sa gulat kapag nabalitaang daang milyon ang walang gatol na inubos ng gobyerno sa loob ng labing-isang araw. Muli na namang gumawa ng ingay ang Office of the Vice President nang isiwalat ni Marikina City Representative Stella Quimbo sa House deliberations ng 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA) na ang P125 million confidential funds na inilaan ng Office of the President sa OVP noong 2022 ay naubos sa loob lamang ng labingisang araw — mas mabilis kumpara sa huling hayag ng Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) Representative na si France Castro na labing-siyam na araw.
Sa pahayag na ito, ipinakita ng Commission on Audit na lumalabas na gumastos ang OVP ng P11,363,636.4 kada araw, taliwas sa unang kalkulasyon ng Makabayan Bloc na P6,578,947.37 kada araw. Ang confidential funds na ito ng OVP ay bukod pa sa
sa pagkain at tamang nutrisyon. Ang paralisadong solusyon at kunwaring pag-aksyon ang mas nagpapalala sa sadsad na kalagayan ng bansa. Malayo-layo pa ang pagdampi ng lunas at mapipilitang mas maghigpit ng sinturon ang taumbayan lalo’t makupad pa ang epekto ng pansamantalang pamahid ng gobyerno sa kumakalam na sikmura ng mga Pilipino. Sa mismong taon kasi kung kailan napirmahan ang nasabing programa ay mapapansin ang lalo pang pagtaas ng bilang ng mga taong walang maipanlaman sa tiyan. Paulit-ulit ang daing ng
confidential funds na ipinanukala ng bise presidente sa Department of Education na kaniya ring hawak. Ang pagkakaroon pa lamang ng confidential funds sa sektor ng edukasyon ay kwestiyonable na, higit lalo ang walang pakundangang pag-ubos sa pondong galing sa buwis na pinagpagurang bayaran ng mga manggagawang Pilipino — malinaw na kawalan ng respeto sa mayorya.
Ayon sa inilabas na guidelines ng 2015 joint circular ng COA, ang confidential at intelligence funds ay alokasyon ng pondo sa national budget na nakalaan sa mga gastusing may kinalaman sa surveillance at intelligencegathering operations na isinasagawa ng mga law enforcement agency sa bansa.
Dinepensahan naman ni Vice President Sara Duterte ang paggamit niya ng confidential funds at sinabing ang sinumang tumuligsa rito ay kalaban ng bayan sapagkat ito ay nakalaan sa ‘peace and order’, at sinumang hindi tumalima ay hindi sumasang-ayon sa layuning ito. Imbes na maglaan ng malinaw na paliwanag hinggil sa planong ito ng kaniyang opisina, idinaan na
mga Pilipino sa patuloy na pagtaas ng mga bilihin, lalo ng bigas sa bansa. Gayunpaman, naloko ang mamamayan sa pangakong P20 na presyo ng bigas na doble naman ang naging halaga sa merkado. Kung humihilahod na sa hirap ang taumbayan upang maisubo ang kanin, lalong magtitiis sa pagdidildil ng asin ang marami. Panibagong tau-tauhan ang kumukontrol sa departamento ng agrikultura at tila ba isinalba lamang ng pangulong Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ang sarili mula sa kritisismo at responsibilidad na bigong matupad. Nag-iba man ang mukha ng pamumuno ngunit pareho lamang ang pagsilay ng propesiyang babaling sa kapalpakan at korapsyon. Patuloy na mangangawawa ang mga magsasaka at maging mga ordinaryong mamamayan sa ilalim ng mga politikong namumulitika sa pandaraya at kasakiman. Isang “Bagong Pilipinas” ang ipinangako ng nakaupong administrasyon, ngunit ginigisa ito sa sariling mantika bunsod ng kabitkabit na mga suliraning bigong
malunasan. Bukod pa rito, patuloy ang pagkapit ng mga bagong problema sa bansa na dinadakdakan sa ulo at nilalatayan sa katawan ang masang Pilipino. Ang kailangan ng taumbayan muli’t muli ay tapat, sapat, at pantay na serbisyo mula sa gobyerno.
Kumalabit man sa mga tainga ng nasa posisyon ang tunog ng mga gutom na tiyan ng masa ngunit malinaw ang katotohanan: tinatapalan pansamantala ng pamahalaan ang problemang kinahaharap ng bansa at sa kalaunan,
“
kapag sila mismo ang tampok ng mga usapin at astang bida-bidahan, untiunting sinasakop ng kalawang ang nasyon hanggang sa ito ay mapag-iwanan sa kangkungan.
Nilustay na Piskal
L’ appel du vide
Thracy Dafielmoto
naman ng bise presidente sa pagbuo ng naratibong magmamanipula sa isipan ng taumbayan ang kaniyang sagot.
Isang insulto na habang pinagkakasya ng ordinaryong mamamayan ang kakarampot na kita sa loob ng isang araw at paabutin hanggang sa pagsapit ng susunod na pagsahod, ang mismong pangalawang pinakamataas na namumuno sa bansa ay hinipang parang hangin ang pondong posible pa sanang ilaan sa napakaraming mabibigat na problema ng bansa, unang-una ay sa edukasyon na kaniya ring ahensya. Ang tunay na paghahangad sa kapayapaan ay nararapat na
magsimula sa pagbibigay ng kasiguraduhan sa taumbayan na ang kanilang buwis ay dumidiretso sa tamang landas. Ang tunay na kalaban ng bayan ay hindi kailanman ang mga nangunguwestiyon at naghahanap ng paliwanag sa mga desisyon at aksyon ng gobyerno.
Ang kalaban ng bayan ay yaongisinasantabi ang pagsasakrispisyo ng masa para sa isang intensyon at motibong hindi
The emergence of Artificial Intelligence in journalism could be a step forward; howbeit, its downsides could cause the whole industry to take two steps backward.
For ages, journalism has been considered as pillars of society, serving factual information to the public ensuring accuracy in its content. The perpetual evolution of technology, which has led to the emergence of Artificial Intelligence, has the potential to profoundly impact various facets of society, media and journalism included. There is no denying that in the long run, it will be an apparatus to improve the efficiency of newsrooms. But the real concern here is at what cost and to what extent?
In recent years, without a doubt, AI has advanced significantly, but it is not without its limitations. From processing vast volumes of data at speeds faster than light to generating innovative solutions for intricate issues — AI can easily execute it without a sweat. Still and all, regardless how much data it can process, how many voices it can mimic, or how many faces it can replicate, unlike human, it cannot feel emotions and make judgements. It can only perform tasks that it has been programmed to do, unable to make own decisions or analyze social issues— a core that is crucial to journalism.
With AI-generated content becomes increasingly prevalent in this
Unrelenting hikes in the rice market of the Philippines sow seeds of economic strain, challenging the nation’s food security and livelihoods.
Rice prices could see another surge before the next harvest in March, as several farmer groups suggest the expedited entry of imported rice to bolster supply. The National Food Authority (NFA) anticipates incoming imported rice this December; however, they acknowledge the ongoing challenge of stabilizing prices. The current rice security in the country has been a repugnant mayhem between imports and locals, but the losers are always been the Filipino consumers and producers.
Rice is the staple food of the Philippines. Therefore, majority of the Filipinos are tackling the economic problem in the rice industry. The forthcoming additional price is an agitated and
day and age, it has become a weapon for manipulating public perception and spreading false information. It has gone unnoticed by some that, in contrary to human journalists, artificial intelligence is susceptible to manipulation and misinformation, which pose threats to the credibility of journalists, an increased mistrust in the media, as well as raise moral and ethical issues in the industry.
When the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) Season 99 got underway, GMA Network, the largest media company, made history by introducing its AI-generated sportscasters for the first time. The creation of “Maia” and “Marco,” with fluency in both English and Filipino, was made possible using AI technology. It was an egregious demonstration of ineptitude, which sparked debates and garnered a lot of mixed reactions online, with many people expressing concerns about the emerging technology and its potential to replace conventional journalists. But the network already clarified that it is only to improve their operation and provide the audience with a great experience when watching sports news.
Nevertheless, Maia and Marco highlight the perilous nature of AI technology. This incident generates discussion about the necessity for ethical AI use and emphasizes the opportunities and difficulties that AI in journalism will present in the future,
Harvesting Hardships: Rising Rice Price
Masanting
Andrei Pamintuan
stacked up burden for the masses. This third-world country is always more of a pro for the privileged that keeps on desensitizing the hunger and agony of the pedestals. The Department of Agriculture (DA) and National Food Security (NFA) is established to clear things along the way, for the betterment of the industry, and provide firm solutions for any current and for those “should be foreseen” problem.
Grave Mistake
including the fact that integrating AI into the newsroom could eventually hurt employment in the media industry, putting thousand of people who work there in jeopardy. Although the use of artificial intelligence has the potential to increase productivity and efficiency, particularly in technical areas, it will never be able to completely replace the unique attributes and profound knowledge that human journalists possess. Putting artificial intelligence and journalism in one room can be a blessing, but the curse that comes with it should not be disregarded. As the Philippines is seen to be particularly vulnerable to disinformation, and with the advent of artificial intelligence in journalism, it would only make it more challenging for journalists to counter the misinformation and disinformation that is permeating the country. With just one click, it may be used to disseminate false information, deceive the public and sway public
Ensuring rice security and price stability in a thirdworld country requires a multifaceted approach addressing both immediate and long-term issues which the government has failed to do so. This is the proof that the government is underperforming and keeps on failing, even the littlest standard in attaining to protect and secure food for the people and the economy. This is an
opinion. The greater justification there is for ethical concerns to be taken into account to avoid the spread of disinformation.
The media and journalism have already indeed paved the way for artificial intelligence to enter the industry in this day and age. The public can only see a small portion of the millions of things AI is capable of, but sooner or later, its long-term effects will eventually come to light, particularly in the journalism industry.
It would be a grave mistake to underestimate its potency, as it would jeopardize journalistic integrity.
obvious depiction of incompetitive leaders are directing the country. The problem for rice crisis has been the paradoxical concern for the Philippines as an agricultural country. Since then, this has become a deep wound for the Filipino people that patronizing band-aid platforms are not susceptible for remedy. So many are affected, so many are still suffering, and everyone who shades under the industry of rice umbrella are still hungry for change. The economy is down while the prices are up, likewise, the locals’ livelihood are also stirred up. It is a more decent thing to propose and implement community engagements, research and developments, education and trainings, etc., than staying on the lowest possible options that clearly do nothing to relieve the predicament of the basic commodities yet the most complex and paramount if neglected.
Enigma Princes Ira Sarmiento
Pagluha man ng sanggol sa una nitong pagyakap sa relihiyo’y ‘di malilimutan, katulad nang pagkamulat ng mga natatanging balintataw sa tamis at halimuyak ng walang hanggang pagiibigan. Sa tangis man ng pagluluksa maging sa galak at tuwa tuwing kaarawan, sa bugsong handog man ay biyaya at himala gayundi’y silungan tuwing unos, pagsubok at baha. At higit sa lahat, sa bawat sinag ng pagasa na yumayapos sa mga tanging tiwala at paniniwala ang tanglaw sa madilim na gabi at tadhana;
Nasaksihan. Sinamahan. Binigyang tahanan. Siyang naging katuparan ng mga pangarap at sandigan. Subalit sa paghinto ng oras at pagharap sa daluyong ng suliranin, sa pagkagat ng dilim sa minsang maningning na takipsilim, sa mga talang tiningala upang ang aking kapalara’y alamin, ano ang siyang iyong pipiliin?
Sumibol nang tuluyang itinatag ang “Pueblo de San Yldefonso en la Provincia de Bulacan” sa taong 1877ang siyang marka sa pagkakatalaga kay San Yldefonso de Toledo bilang aking patron mula sa basbas ng Arsobispo ng Maynila. Sa pagsinag ng bagong marka sa buhay ng mga mamamayan na aking nasasakupan, unti-unti nilang binigyang kulay at buhay ang minsang isang munting dibuho lamang na pangarap. Kaya’t ang naunang kawaya’t pawid mula sa kapilya ng Bulac na ngayo’y kapilya na ng Barangay San Juan, ay iniwan at itinayo sa
malapit noong pamilihan - kasaysayang halaw sa nailathala ni Yosef Eric C. Hipolito, isang mananalaysay at guro. Doon - sa tahanang ang pangalan ngayo’y Barangay Poblacionnilikha at kapit-bisig na pinagtulungan itayo ang aking unang katauhan. Sa yaring atip na pawid, pandinding na kawayan at tansong kampanang isinabit sa puno ng isang acacia, maging sa mumunting kumbento ay ganap na akong itinalaga bilang Parroquia ni San Yldefonso sa bayan ng San Yldefonso, Bulacan taong 1885. Makalipas ang pagdaloy ng isang taon ay unti-unting pinagtibay ng mga bato’t semento sa pagkakaisang ipinamalas ng nasasakupan ko sa taong 1886, na siyang pinag-ibayo ng kasalukuyan noong cura parroco na si P. Jose dela Rosa. Sa bagong bihis na yaring bato ay aking pinagmasdan ang mga pangyayaring ngayo’y kasaysayan. Kasama ako at saksi sa himagsikan tungo sa pagkamit ng kalayaan at sa ganap na pagsilang ng aking tahanan bilang Bayan ng San Ildefonso, Bulacan, noong 1909. Maging sa pagkabuhay ng pagkilala sa isang likas na yaman sa makulay na pagkakatatag at unang pagdiriwang ng Pistang Bulak taong 2006. Sa bawat simo’y ng pasko, bawat araw ng Misa de Gallo, sa bawat hagupit ng unos at sa bagong simulang handog ng bawat tao’y naging katuwang ako ng aking bayan. Subalit ‘di nagtagal, tila hindi na sumasapat ang aking espasyo para sa mga minamahal ko. Tila ang apat na sulok ay ‘di husto upang maging isang instrumentong maghahatid ng pagsamo ng mga ito. Na kahit ang hakbang na pagpaparami ng misa’y di na rin tumutugma upang maging sapat sa pagtaas ng bilang ng populasyon dito. Ang suliraning ito’y nasaksihan ng bawat haligi ng pamunuan ng simbahan sa pangunguna ng cura parroco noon na si P. Leon G. Coronel maging ng bawat mga nagsisilbi at pinagsisilbihan taong 2004. Kaya’t
agkukubling N
mgaTALA Mapagpalang Kanlungan
HASSEL REYES
agkukubling
TALAsa Mapagpalang Kanlungan
ang isang pangarap sa pagpapalaki ng espasyo’y kanilang hinagkan - isang pangarap at pagpaplano na inabot ng mahigit isang dekada bago tuluyang matuldukan. Sa taong 2019, minarkahan at sinimulang pag tagpi-tagpiin upang makamit ang reyalidad para sa akin. Sa nalikom na pondo ng bawat kapit-bisig ay naging sapat upang ang pagpapaayos ay simulan. Kay sarap at kay gandang pangarap, para sa bawat mananampalataya ng Bulak maging ng mga naniniwala saan mang nayon o kabayanan. Wala nang mas gaganda pa sa isang pangarap na patuloy na isinasakatuparan.
tala’y inihain upang alamin ang aking kapalaran.
Subalit sa ‘di inaasahan, ang planong ‘retrofitting’ sa akin o ang pagpapaluwag lamang ng espasyo’y magiging kabuuang pagwasak at pagpapatayo muli ng bagong mukha at disenyo na nagsimula sa taong 2020. Sa kabila ng matayog na paglipad ng pangarap ay ang pagbagsak ng mga pag-aalala at problema. Siyang sinundan pa noong Marso taong 2023, sa ilalim ng bagong cura parroco na si P. Jose Rodolfo Colendrino, kung saan tuluyang nabuklat at nabigyang tanglaw ang madilim na katotohanan na nagkukubli sa nakakasilaw na pangarap.
Kakulangan sa plano, sa permiso, sa marami pang elemento at higit sa lahat, sa pagtuklas na isa na ako sa hanay ng mga makasaysayang simbahan sa lalawigan ng Bulacan dahil sa edad kong mahigit isang daan ang siyang kabilang sa mga dahilan. Sa pagyapos sa posibilidad at pagkonsulta sa Pambansang Komisyong Pangkasaysayan ng Pilipinas, tuluyang nabigyang kalinawan ang katotohanan na ang aking bagong anyo - na siyang ibang-iba sa nakalipas - ay hindi nararapat. Kaya’t kasabay nito ay ang kautusang pansamantalang tuldukan ang aking destinasyon tungo sa bagong ayos at kagandahan. Maraming tanong. Naguumapaw ang mga bakit. ‘Di mabilang ang siyang panghihinayang. Ngunit wala nang magagawa pa upang salungatin ang ikot ng orasan upang patakbuhin pabalik sa dati at orihinal nitong kaayusan. Sa pagsisiyasat at pagkalkula ng mga posibilidad, ang mga
Nararapat nga ba akong muling gibain, ibalik sa dati at orihinal na anyo upang hindi ang legal na pagkakakilanlan at historikal na kahalagahan ang magwakas? Iwaksi ang bawat halaga at pagod na naibuhos? O ang nasimulang pangarap upang mas maraming bilang ang mapagsilbihan na siya ring sinangayunan ng 92.4 porsyento ng mga mananampalatayang taga-Bulak ay ipagpatuloy kahit mabura sa listahan ng makasaysayang simbahan sa Bulacan ang dapat piliin at isakatuparan? Sa unos na dala ng bawat bakit, suliranin at kalabuan, isa lamang ang malinaw sa akin: ang importansya at biyayang naihatid ko mula sa Maykapal, maging ng pintakasing hinirang - sa bawat salat sa paniniwala’t patuloy ang pagkapit sa pananampalataya ay ‘di maiwawaksi at matutumbasan ng anumang legal na papel ng pagkakakilanlan o kahalagahan. Along nilikha ng pag-asa at espasyong iniukit sa bawat puso ng masa ay ‘di mabubura ng anumang bagong bihis na estruktura. Sa daluyong man ng pighati o sa hampas ng pag-asa, patuloy kong napatunayan na hindi ninyo ako kakaligtaan kailanman; kapit-bisig sa aking laban, suliranin, at sa hinaharap - sa aking tagumpay. Marahil mahabang panahon pa ang siyang lalakbayin upang ang mga sagot sa aking mga tanong at suliranin ay tuluyang mabigyan ng kasagutan at kalinawan. Gayunpaman, ang aking laban, at ang laban ng buong langkay na sugo ng Parokya ng San Ildefonso ay patuloy sa paglayag upang mahanap ang tamang tala sa ngalan ng mapagpalang kapalaran.
“
Damara
Brewing Triumphs over silent
When life’s bitterness brings one to the brim of losing hope, there would always be one graceful moment that would stir one’s cup, blending its contents with all the remaining ingredients that make life the perfect whiff of coffee — slightly bitter with the right touch of sweetness.
Tired and burned out from all the heaps of school works piled atop one another, a cup of foamy shake, or perhaps of a hot latte always sounds the perfect way to treat oneself, whether you’re a student, instructor, or just anyone who has survived the weight of a whole day’s work. But to find the perfect spot where one could release their stress for just a moment might be the challenge, particularly to find a place where the warmth of acceptance and inclusivity is truly felt. Thankfully, this place has recently found its way in the heart of Bulacan Agricultural State College. Walking through the array of pathways from the third gate of BASC, no one would pass over it without having a second look. With its aesthetically pleasing interiors, colorful and bright LED lights, the aroma of caramel, salt, vanilla, and sugar blended with coffee beans and a hint of honey and milk will surely invite anyone to visit and have a sip. The newly-opened coffee shop at BASC, the Farron Café, is one of the college’s efforts to establish more ways to secure the institution’s financial gains in its journey into becoming a university.
But not only the benefit of the café brings joy to the students and the college staffs, the shop’s establishment has a deeper and more meaningful impact in strengthening the fight for inclusivity. Behind its cozy ambiance and lovely aroma, you will get to meet an exceptional individual whose character is as strong as the coffee he’s brewing. Bryan S. Naguit, a 35-year-old deafmute barista, would greet you with a great smile the moment you stepped inside the café.
PRINCESS IRA SARMIENTO & JOHN RIEL GAGULA
Bryan, who was born in Apalit, Pampanga, is one of those people who refuses to let his disability stop him from living. He has been totally deaf-mute since birth. Despite this, Bryan’s disability does not define him, but his determination does. He goes about his life exactly as any other person who is not disabled would. What drove him on was his aspiration to be successful in life. Bryan completed a one-year course in computer hardware servicing under the Alternative Learning System, or ALS at City College of San Fernando, Pampanga, High School, Philippines. Yet, fate has other plans for him.
Striving to find a place where he would be accepted just as he is, his love for coffee motivated him to work in a café. Unaware of what was ahead of him in 2020, he took the courage to apply at Farron Café. Little did he know that he would end up in a place that would support a diverse, inclusive workplace where he would be valued and acknowledged for the contributions he made. This year, Bryan found himself working diligently in front of BASCians, serving them with cups of coffee, milktea and frappe while watching them smile over every sip.
by the law serving equal opportunity to all Persons with Disabilities, free from discrimination and shall have rights to be employed in their desired jobs under the Republic Act 7277 also known as the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities. It might be a long journey for people like Bryan to be completely seen by the society in their fullest potential, but as long as the fight for equal rights and treatment continue to transpire even in small spaces, just like in BASC community, accepting them and letting them do their duties without prejudice, stereotype nor discrimination, it will always cause little to gradual bigger changes — to the life of the individual itself to the larger society.
orders, that makes Bryan feel he is accepted for what he can do. Hence, as a way of expressing his gratitude, Bryan strives to do better on his workplace every day, serving not just only a cup of coffee but also an inspiration to its customers.
It was always the glimpse of understanding, without any hint of judgement, flashing through the eyes of the students whenever he gestures to them his situation, handing them paper and pen where they have to write down their
In addition to performing his duties, Bryan also establishes a positive atmosphere by making things enjoyable for his colleagues. When asked how Bryan is doing at work, Victor David Dela Cruz, another barista at Farron Café and Bryan’s coworker, stated that, “Kung ano ‘yung trabaho napapagaan niya pa, lalo yung trabaho ng kasama niya.”
Like what he does in every cup of coffee he makes, he mixes something sweet into his life, such as his courage and determination. Bryan refused to let his condition limit him or prevent him from accomplishing his goals; he embraced it as a flavor to put in extra effort and demonstrates his utmost potential.
The Philippines, as a developing nation, has already taken its step towards inclusivity for disabled people. Hence, the establishment of several laws is the country’s one way to provide protection and safeguard the rights of PWDs. Bryan is one of those individuals protected
“
Just like in every cup he serves, Bryan’s desire to contribute what he can do to the society would always take up a space to fill other’s inspirations.
Promised Land:
Not your typical travelogue
ASHLEY PANGILINAN
Life is an endless puzzle. Dealing things in obnoxious ways, floating on your bizarre thoughts on how to handle your everyday life. It doesn’t ran out of cookies for us to bite. Sweet, then bitter eventually. That’s how life give us fortune before it rob us.
I can even imagine myself walking lifelessly while carrying my bag as I go home. The day seems tiring! Endless lectures, activities, and other responsibilities. It seems like days are just passing by like the way it used to be for a long time, leaving me without choice but to continue even it seems repetitively unprogressive.
Lola Remy’s
ASHLEY PANGILINAN
The Soil Tiller speak. write. be true. be free.
As I step my foot on our front door, familiar noises are coming from the kitchen where my mom is asking me to come and join them for a dinner. Eating with family might soothe the fatigue that plagues us, but it is the other way around. We are all tired from the errands that we are cyclically running every single day! As we take our respective spots on the dinner table, we can’t help but stare at our plates full of food that can barely make us feel good. While in the middle of silence, Lola Remy suddenly stood up and clapped her hands. “It seems that you are losing the spark that you once had! Now, stand and join me to do something electrifying! We will go to a place where we truly belong, a place of happiness and beauty!” she blurted out. As we stood, an ominous wind started to blow which forced me to close my eyes, not knowing that colours would start to splatter on my gray-scale picture.
It feels like opening my eyes was the best thing that I ever did, as I was greeted by a panoramic view of green bloom fields. Little did I know that I was already sitting on a wooden bench that almost clings on the cliff edge. As I looked above, a wooden sign that says “Digos Hills” greeted me. “ Beautiful indeed, isn’t it, Sugar?” Lola asked. I was dumbfounded because of what I’ve seen. Might of mountains that shout bravery made my heart skip. “That’s the Sierra Madre, Apo!” She said while I am picking words that fell as my breath was taken away. A smile plastered on my face, flooded by the thoughts that these bulks shielded us from storms for many years. Suddenly, a question whispered on my ears: “Do I have the rights to feel blunt if someone is protecting me?” I think I know the answer on my own question. While someone is catching the pain that I meant to feel, I should live my life happily and appreciate little things, which we need to see the worth of.
As we walked down the road, my stomach suddenly crumbled which made Lola Remy laugh. “You’re hungry, and that’s not a question.” She grabbed my hands and we went to a line of hats nearby. “Digos Grills” says the wooden slab that was plastered above. As we go in, we were greeted with Filipino dishes that will make anyone fell for food. Beef mami, pares, adobo, garlic rice, name it! It feels heavenly to scoop these stuffs in your mouth. It feels like I am a VIP that was invited to a wedding. As I enjoy my meal, the sky turned orange that signifies the
slumbering of the sun where the stars starts to aviate on our very own eyes. A tear drop suddenly glimpsed on my eyes. I never felt this good for a long time. I was about to thank Lola when she snapped her fingers, calling the familiar blow of wind that shut my eyes closed again.
Seconds later, I heard birds chirping and water gushing through a stream. My eyes were widely opened when I saw a humongous waterfall in front of me. I saw people climbing on the rocks, enjoying what they are seeing before make a launch on the river. Water splashed on my face, arousing my sleeping soul. “Welcome to Verdivia Falls! A place where you can shake your thoughts off!” Lola Remy said. My heart is finally at ease and peace. Thanks to my Lola, who was able to uplift me through the burden that I am tied with. We played like kids, we float like swans. We are having time of our lives. We travelled to many places such as Tumutulo Falls, Puning Cave, Tila Pilon Hills, and many more.
While we are enjoying the moment, I finally found my chance to extend my gratitude to her. “Thank you so much, Lola Remy! This made my day. I just realized that if I feel down, I should learn to appreciate small things to lift me up. The change will start within me and I will radiate that happiness to others.” I said. “It’s my pleasure, dear” she retorted. We hugged each other and she kissed me to my forehead. I will cherish this moment forever. As I opened my eyes, a familiar setup flung in front of me; sitting on the dinner table with my family. A smile escaped from my lips and looked to her teary-eyed and mouthed the words of gratitude.
“
I will remember this moment with you, Lola Remy. It is a memorable trip with you!” I said as I took a glance at her photo with a name below:
Doña Remedios Trinidad, April 5, 1902 - April
7, 1938.
The pyramid of Giza, the leaning tower of Pisa, and the Great Wall of China rose for centuries—the testimonials of strength and wealth, but not of the city or the place, but of the people. The rise of a city was only made possible with the hands of the citizens, who molded the pillars to keep the foundation firm.
However, kept within the records are the fall of civilizations and the reconstructions and reforms that were brought about by the same hands that built them—the people. Within the hands of the citizens lies the power of choice, and freedom entails unpredictable change. And centuries apart, in the same way that ancient civilizations constructed and destroyed cities, today, in modern society, we, Bulakeños, are faced with the same kind of predicament. A crux: divergent roads leading to different futures.
TheFirstPillars
From the ground sprung the history of San Jose Del Monte City, which was founded on March 2, 1752, led by a humble family of farmers and stonecutters from Libtong and Meycauayan, Bulacan. There were only about 200 people living within the community that was surviving off of farming, raising fish, and other natural resources.
However, the foundations that were built were not strong enough to hold numerous waves of challenges. During the American regime, San Jose Del Monte was placed under the supervision of Sta. Maria, Bulacan as it still can’t stand on its own. But in 1918, SJDM became independent and was recognized as a municipality, with the Honorable Ciriaco Gallardo as the first Municipal Mayor.
Years later, after much work, all the cuts and calluses they sustained while attempting to fortify their home bore fruits. The municipality was officially declared a component city under Republic Act No. 8797 on September 10, 2000 which made it the first ever city in the province and 86th in the country, earning its title of “Balcony of the Metropolis.”
It was the soiled hands of the humble farmers that first started the history of SJDM. Its foundation, once shaky and unsteady, now stands as a skyscraper and one of the most progressive cities in Bulacan that will continue to rise and elevate.
San Jose Del Monte City’s Rise or Fall into HUC
Within the Hands that Built:
GELIZA JASLEN ELOPRE
The Soil Tiller speak. write. be true. be free.
TheRise of Skyscraper
A few more steps towards writing itself into history, San Jose Del Monte City’s current and previous mayors have dreamed of being the “fastest rising city” in Bulacan. More than just a far-fetched dream, the city has always built itself up to be deserving enough of the title of highly urbanized city. Being the largest city in land area housing a staggering 651,813 population, it rises above the minimum requirement of 200,000 residents in a city. Moreover, it is a pot of gold that harvests 141 million pesos in net income, far above the set standard of 50 million pesos in income threshold. Thus, carrying the confidence that the city is more than qualified to apply to be an HUC under Section 452 of Republic Act (RA) 7160, or the Local Government Code of 1991.
“As the father of the city of SJDM, I, along with the people of San Jose, dream of it becoming a fully-fledged HUC, because I believe it will bring significant opportunities and progress to our city and province,” San Jose Del Monte City Mayor Arthur Robes said.
Mayor Robes was also the one who proposed the conversion of SJDM to be a HUC, which was approved through Proclamation 1057 issued by former president Rodrigo Duterte on December
4, 2020, which resulted in the issuance of a plebiscite to finalize the transformation of the city. The plebiscite was also scheduled to be distributed on October 30, 2023 which coincide with the Barangay and Sanguniang Kabataan Elections.
But, with all these in mind, what makes the city dream of more than what it has? Why pursue such a name as being HUC? What does it entail?
The title of a highly urbanized city is not just a name; it changes the course of actions and paths of the city. Every aspect and branch of the community will be affected, both positively and negatively.
First, in terms of economic viability, the SJDM will be independent and will have a direct share of the National Tax Allotment (NaTA). It will enable the city to get a hold of a larger budget as the Presidential Social Fund will also be directly handed to SJDM instead of being collected by the Province of Bulacan and distributed along with the other municipalities.
Moreover, being an HUC means that it will be a natural magnet for investors, according to Mayor Robes. This will bring more job opportunities and businesses to the city.
Second, is the political viability, wherein the city will have the administrative power to govern its juridical territory. Currently, all municipalities and cities in Bulacan are under the supervision of the provincial government. Therefore, when
SJDM becomes an HUC, it will separate itself and be independent in how they govern their city and residents.
This will also mean that the Bulacan province will lose the SJDM’s taxes as well as voters. The San Joseños will not be able to vote for provincial political candidates as it will be irrelevant to them.
“
These major concepts of change give birth to a lot of other concerns and questions in the minds of people. And it is the duty and responsibility of the citizens and affected ones to be well informed before making such decisions that will definitely change the future of many lives with a simple yes or no.
TheFear of Heights
Changes and development are not always equivalent to positive progress. This very same thinking is what plagues the minds of the SJDM citizens and Bulakeños from different municipalities. While the skyscraper keeps on rising from the ground and reaching greater heights, those who live inside this structure and those who continue to build it will inevitably feel the oxygen as it thins out, and the possibility of a great fall will surely eat away their brains.
Both Bulakeños and SJDM residents raised their questions during the Facebook Live of San Jose Del Monte City’s Information Office on October 27 to find clarifications and clear speculations. One of the most heated topics was the possibility of a tax increase that would directly affect the cost of living in the city.
According to Rosalinda Junday, the Administrative Officer of the City Treasure’s shift the tax rate to only 10 percent, the same as when SJDM became a component city in 2000, based on the local government code. She also clarified that it will go through due process before it can be implementable or legal.
“Paano naman po ang mga social pensioners and senior citizens?” one of the netizens commented during the live. This concern sprung from the fact that once declared HUC, the SJDM will also be separated from the benefits that San Joseños are enjoying from the capitol.
Therefore, Rowena C. Gugulan, Social Welfare Officer III of SJDM, revealed the plans of the city in case it successfully became an HUC. From 1,063 social pensioners, they promised to add and give 1,530 the same incentives they get from the national funds. The same was promised for solo parents, PWDs, and student scholars.
The city was confident that as they become HUC, investors will be naturally drawn towards SJDM to start businesses and will therefore contribute to the economic growth of the city. It will also start a domino effect that will contribute to creation of jobs and better services for the residents.
However, one of the biggest worries of the citizens is the health care facilities. Most San Joseños rely on the public hospitals of the Bulacan province, and while there are health centers in SJDM, there are no sufficient public hospitals to accommodate the volumes of patients from the city.
“Dapat po hindi tinatanggihan ang mga pasyente, kahit saan pa man galing,” Rural Health Physician of SJDM Dr. Roselle T. Tolentino answered.
However, some San Joseños still feel that it will have an impact on them once they separate from the province.
“Ang mga pasilidad at estraktura katulad ng mga ospital at iba pang pasilidad ay hindi pa nakakamit ang standard ng isang city,” Jeremy Denzell M. Pedroso, a San Joseño and a 1st year student at Bulacan Agricultural State College under a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Business, explained his worries for the city he lives in.
He also added that while they have already been a component city for years on end now, a lot of San Joseños cannot really feel that they are progressive as they are still experiencing the same state of living.
On the other hand, Sunshine V. Ferrer, a graduating student from BASC under the Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in English, also raised her concerns as a Bulakeña, stating that “mababawasan ang pondo na ibibigay ng gobyerno sa lalawigan ng Bulacan. Ibig sabihin ay mababawasan din ang pondo at badyet para sa mga programa na inilulunsad ng ating lalawigan na ang benepisyaryo ay mamamayan sa buong Bulacan.”
While there are positive effects on SJDM and Bulacan, it is impossible to disregard the possible negative impacts on the province, other cities, and municipalities.
A multitude of issues are being dragged along as the SJDM pursues being an HUC. Concerns arose from the surface that people wanted to know. However, despite the efforts of the city and its officials to campaign and encourage its people to vote for the conversion of the city into an HUC, It will all come down to the citizens’ judgment and knowledge of the issue.
“Everyone in the Philippines loves democracy; kaya nga tayo nagthi-thrive as a nation is because we have the right to suffrage, pwede tayong bumoto, we have the right to speak, and we have press freedom.” These are the words of Desiree Amante Rodriguez, Municipal Information Officer of San Ildefonso Municipality, during an interview with The Soil Tiller.
TheCrumbling and Climbing
The fate of the conversion of the SJDM into a HUC lies in the hands of the people in the province of Bulacan. With a thin slip of paper and a drop of ink, it will forever leave a mark on the history of not just SJDM but also of the province.
“Pero noong bumoto ka ba, was that an informed decision?” Rodriguez added, as a rhetorical question for the voters in Bulacan after the plebiscite results received 820,385 “no” votes, a greater amount than the 620,707 “yes.” In addition, the SJDM vote count showed that voters were in favor of “no,” with 97,954 votes against 92,714 for “yes.”
The result is a testimony that in the hands of the people, the rise, the climbing, the halt, the fall, or the crumbling of a city lies. The power of choice is the power to create or erase a future. In every part of history, humans need to face change inevitably. But humans have the choice of whether to embrace a change or decline it if it is deemed dangerous or unnecessary. Therefore, it is also the duty of those who possess that power to use it and be equipped with knowledge.
Like the structures in ancient civilizations that rise and fall into existence, they are rooted in companionship, unity, and camaraderie. According to the theory of Margaret Mead, an American cultural anthropologist, the earliest sign of civilization
is a healed femur. It might be a hint that an injured person met another human who tended to and helped with his recovery.
In the present and even in the future, municipalities, cities, and provinces are like the civilizations that were created from the very simple idea of helping one another, caring for, and tending to another human being.
While the Bulakeños are against the conversion of SJDM into an HUC, whatever the reason, it will be for the better of everyone who lives and creates the city where it is today. “
Damara
A Doctor’s Nightmares
JHACELLE RHOBIE SUAREZ
Darkness ruled in my system once again. I thought the power of a pill could fight its reign.
Yet, a bleak forest, a chain of silence, and a mud of reeking blood already made their alliance. Wailing like a beast, I disturbed the night of peace.
Suddenly, the setting changes. as the ticking of the clock approaches.
Loud siren from the ambulance, cries of people from a distance, “Time of death, 11:59 p.m.,” a raspy voice announced.
Loud buzz wakes me up from sleep, people in white robes dashing in swift.
“Doctor, we have an emergency.”
“Doctor, code blue.”
“Doctor, there’s something wrong with the coma patient.”
A cycle of escaping from a cliff, yet always falling into numbness and grief.
Seeing my reflection in the mirror, I could not help but tremble in terror.
In every life that I have saved, there are lives that I have accompanied to their graves.
This profession is my mission.
Moonlight’s Fairytale
BELINDA SANTOS
The coarseness of wild grass touched my delicate soft skin, as my barefoot caresses the trees and flowers’ kin.
The sky seems tired of crying so the stars keep on falling— the ones that I am catching ‘til the madness of the sun started creeping.
“Come with me” —echoed from nowhere.
“You won’t taste that cup of tea anymore for the life of the morning is what I could flare.”
5th
MARK JOSHUA SUNGA
Kapangyarihang hindi mawari. Lakas ng ispiritual ko ang naghahari. Sa isang ilusyong hindi ko alam kung paano sinimulan. Bawa’t hawaka’y nagkakaroon ng walang hanggang kapalaran.
Siguro nga ay piyesa ito ng mga ala-ala mula pa sa nakaraan kong pagkatao. O isang kathang nilimbag lamang ng malikot kong kaisipan. Kung ano man ito ay hindi ko pa matuklas ang titulo’t estilo. Minsan, madalas nila akong hindi maintindihan, maski sarili ay hindi na rin maunawaan.
Ngunit ngayon, ako ay mulat subalit hindi matukoy kung saan ang lahat ng bagay sa isipa’y nag-ugat. Bueno, ang pagtulay na lamang sa aking panaginip ang siyang i-uulat. “Sa ikalimang dimensyon” ang siyang magiging pamagat.
Bakit Nakakalimutan ang Panaginip?
CHARLES SULIT
Panandaliang lukso ng puso tuwing pipikit, bago hilahin ng gabi ang matang nawawaglit. Namumungay sa antok, hayaan mong maidlip, upang magtagpo sa panaginip, kahit ilang saglit.
Ngunit paano kita matagal na masisilayan, kung pagkatapos mong bumisita sa aking himbing, ay mamamaalam ka rin naman sa’king paggising.
Tulad ng araw noong tinulak niya ang dilim, pagsapit ng umaga, pagdilat ng aking mga mata.
ELISEO LATUJA
The Soil Tiller speak. write. be true. be free.
VAN LAWRENCE UMEREZ
Rusting Nightmare Chain
PRINCESS IRA SARMIENTO
Beneath the horizon, where darkness hovers, chaos reigns. As the entirety of this country is wrapped up in a rusting nightmare chain. With pockets brimming with rapacity, filthy hands are in thrall to power and money.
Oh, beloved country, entrapped itself in a hellish dream.
In the grasp of avarice, people in power grovels in despair. With falsehood and deceitful acts, a vow for change turning rapidly into a judas kiss.
Oh, beloved country, when will you be free?
From a rusting nightmare chain slowly trading your soul for a penny. Descending each soul into an crevasse of distress, as a clutch of freedom is left up the creek without a paddle.
Beneath the horizon, where darkness hovers, greed rules. A rusting nightmare chain wraps up the dermis of this fatherland.
As the feast on power leaves a pit of woes, burying the truth beneath a veil of lies.
HALIMAW SA ILALIM NG KAMA
JHON PAUL ROCE
Noong bata pa ako palaging panakot sa akin ni ina ang halimaw sa ilalim ng kama, nangangain raw ito ng mga makukulit na bata; kahindik-hindik ang wangis at may mapupulang mga mata— ganiyan kung paano niya ito ilarawan. Kaya naman takot akong sumilip sa ilalim ng aking kama kahit na sinasamahan niya akong matulog ay hindi pa rin nawawaglit sa aking isipan kung totoo nga bang may halimaw sa ilalim nito.
Ngunit habang ako’y lumalaki ay napagtanto ko na hindi totoo ang halimaw sa kama, panakot lamang iyong ng aking ina dahil sa ako ay pasaway noong ako’y musmos pa lamang. At sa palagay ko ay hindi naman talaga nakakatakot ang wangis ng halimaw na ito, mas nakakatakot pa rin ang problemang kinakaharap ko ngayon.
Kaya naman sa unang pagkakataon, naglakas-loob akong silipin ang ilalim ng aking kama, doon sa madilim na bahagi sa hindi nasisinagan ng liwanag, doon ay nakita ng dalawang mata ko ang wangis ng sinasabi niyang halimaw, mapupula nga ang mga mata nito at nanlilisik at animo’y gutom na gutom at gusto akong lapain. Totoo nga ang halimaw sa kama. Nanigas ang buo kong katawan sa nasaksihan ng aking mga mata. Dahil sa takot ay hindi ko na tinitigan pa nang matagal ang halimaw at agad na akong tumayo at saka dali-daling humanap ng basahang aking ipamumunas sa naglala-
Talaarawan ng manunulat
VANNE LUDWIG FRANCISCO
Nakahilata sa nangangasim kong kutson habang hinahayaang dumampi ang hanging-peke mula sa bintana.
Tinitigatig ang isip ng dating padron— ang parikalang padrong-malaya ngunit matagal nang naiwala.
Halos hikain dahil sa alikabok ng kuwarto.
Nabubulok nang tulad ng inaamag kong mga libro. Nawalan ng kahulugan tulad ng mga sariling akda. At sinakop ng kahungkagan at nilisan ng pag-asa.
Manunulat akong naitakda ng sariling mga letra.
Naging ako ang makata sa isinulat kong tula: Isang makatang iniwan ng talinhaga at naiwala ang mga salita.
Damara
ERLIE DAWN LATUJA
Naked - unveiled truth
“Will you love me still when I’m no longer young and beautiful? Will you still love me when I got nothing but my ached soul?” lyrics from the song ‘Young and Beautiful’ by Lana Del Rey and the questions that are related with lack of security and fear of vulnerability.
Dreaming of nakedness often mirrors a journey into the labyrinth of the self, where light and shadow mingle. This vulnerability is not merely the unveiling of one’s luminous virtues; it also beckons the hidden, less heralded aspects - the anger, sorrow, and unspoken depths. It’s like breaking the walls you personally built, brick by emotional brick, sometimes diminishing one’s essence in pursuit of understanding, of belonging.
Nakedness in a public place full of unknown faces and scared of the thought that they could lay their hands on your bare skin. Showing your unveiled self means being vulnerable. A lot of people see vulnera-
LUCID DREAMING
To be aware you are awake amidst the dream, vividly lucid while the colorful imaginations play like theatrical opera inside of you is the best thing that will happen for a human, as dreams are often forgotten once we open our eyes. In this case, the line between reality and fantasy often blurs, people lost in euphoria of grand allusions and illusions.
Yet, amidst this enchanting confusion, lies the profound revelation that lucidity is a gift unparalleled. It is a reminder that even in the most mesmerizing of dreams, the soul yearns for the touchstone of reality, for the grounding embrace of truth. For in the end, a truth, holds more substance and offers deeper fulfillment than the most
RYAN CHRISTIAN LORIA
The Soil Tiller speak. write. be true. be free.
GATE OF SMILES
As I was about to open the glass door, a vision caught me, my own likeness, my reflection. My hair - messy, my eyes - gloomy, and my heart - heavy. Tears are about to fall for reasons I cannot fathom. I gathered courage to fix my hair and shut my tears. My lips were trembling as I began to form an arc of joy to show my greatest asset - a constellation of flawed, but earnest set of teeth.
But horror struck me, gaping in my grin, two stars had vanished from my celestial smile, while others teetered on the brink of oblivion. A panicked hand flew to guard the falling firmament of my teeth. However, my reflection in the glass door got scary, and my vision turned blurry. A low growl of anguish escaped me and I shakingly opened the glass door to run away...
Perhaps it was better to lose a tooth than to feel this real nightmare... of losing a loved one, his smile
TO FLY IS TO ACHIEVE
Dreams often bridge our reality with the realm of the intangible, mirroring the essence of our present.
Therefore I am asking if you ever dreamed of flying around? Like floating in the air alone—and no one is there to reach you out. You are lost and nowhere to be found—like a kid who is lost in the crowd. But imagine that being alone in the space is quite peaceful—you’re on your own, vibing on your inner thoughts, and no one is there to mess it up.
To fly is to dance with freedom, to waltz with liberation untethered from the earthly chains. It is an odyssey beyond the confines, a journey through the limitless expanse of thought and feeling, where the spirit explores the farthest reaches of its own existence.
So I’m going to ask you again: have you ever dreamed of flying around? If yes, do you still want
ANDREI PAMINTUAN
ANTONETTE DELOS SANTOS
Damara
Eliseo Dela Cruz
Ryan Christian Loria
The Soil Tiller speak. write. be true. be free.
EYE ON THE PRIZE. Spelling out determination and hardwork, Del Rosario hailed to be 1st among 14 schools that contested on the 2nd National Batting Organic Agriculture (OA) Quiz Bee.
Geared up with enthusiasm and skills in the field of organic agriculture, a student of Bulacan Agricultural State College bagged gold in the recently held Regional Kabataang Organic Agriculture Quiz Bee 2023 competition at the Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Training Institute, Palayan, Nueva Ecija, October 20.
Tracy Nicole Del Rosario, a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture major in Crop Science made her way to the
Bulakenyos demand character preservation of SJDM
KARLOS BORBAJO
BASC CropSci student triumphs at Kabataang OA Quiz Bee 2023
VINCENT TADEO
top after the final round of the contest; while all the other participants from BASC CA also secured a place in top 10, among the 32 participating students in eight Agriculture Universities and Colleges within Region 3.
“Their success is a testament to their hard work and the quality of education they receive, and
The proposal for making San Jose del Monte Bulacan a highly urbanized city was discarded after the Bulakenyos seek status preservation as been announced during the 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections, October 30.
The election saw 820,385 votes against the conversion,
it undoubtedly brings honor and recognition to the college and the entire community,” College of Agriculture Campus Student Council stated on their post applauding the success of their participants.
Del Rosario will now advance to the national competition of the said event to secure another opportunity for victory.
overshadowing the 620,707 votes in favor of the proposed change.
Based on Proclamation 1057, which was signed by former President Rodrigo Duterte on 20th of December, 2020, it states that, “... declaring the City of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan as a highly-urbanized city shall be conducted and synchronized with the 2022 National and Local
Their success is a testament to their hard work and the quality of education they receive.
College of Agriculture Campus Student Council
Elections, by including the same in the ballots for the City of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan. ” On the other hand, SJDM will continue to strengthen its service, as mentioned by the chairperson of the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability.
BASC welcomes national SUCs for 2nd NRDC
EXTRAORDINARY RESEARCH INVENTIONS. With one of a kind remarks from Dr. Junel Soriano, evaluators and researchers across State Universities and Colleges assembled at the BASC Farmer’s Training Center to exemplify there individualized studies that they will present for the betterment of the community.
Evaluators and researchers from different State Colleges and Universities gathered in the Bulacan Agricultural State College Farmer’s Training Center for the 2nd National Research and Development Conference with a theme “People Centered R&D in Universities: Building Agile and Sustainable Communities”, December 5.
Participants all the way from Central Luzon State University down to state colleges of Davao and Sorsogon attended the assembly spearheaded by the BASC Research,
Extension, Production and Development Office.
BASC President, Dr. Jameson H. Tan emphasized the importance of the said program for the development of the school and community as well.
Dr. Junel B. Soriano, Director of the Department
of Agriculture-Bureau of Agricultural Research, encouraged the researchers of their specific field of expertise to seize their opportunity to present their studies.
Dr. Soriano also emphasized to continue their partnership with the BASC which was solidified with the signing of Memorandum of Agreement which states that promised financial help will be given to the institution in order to improve facilities over time.
Jumping in the afternoon program, Engr. Joselito D. Tucit, Director of Intellectual Property Office, ended the program after the awarding ceremony with his closing remarks further encouraging the collaboration between researchers for the betterment of the community.
Pres Tan shoulders BASC’s poor Licensure Examination performance
“I understand that our performance was not up to the expected standards and I take full responsibility for it,” Dr. Jameson H. Tan, Bulacan Agricultural State College President stated in his public statement after the college received a low passing rate in the last three exams for Geodetic Engineering Licensure Exam (GELE), Agricultural and Biosystems Engineer Licensure Examination (ABELE), and Licensure Examination for Agriculturists (LEA).
According to the results released by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) on December 4, BASC only recorded an overall performance of 20.93% passing rate, which is relatively lower compared to the 38.95% last year.
Out of 43 examinees including repeaters from BASC, only nine managed to pass the said examination.
BASC also received
alarming results from the recently concluded GELE with only 21.43% passing rate and Agriculture and Biosystems Engineers Licensure Examination with 17.07% Due to this, Pres. Tan apologized for the poor performances of the college and assured that he is taking all the necessary steps to ensure that results like these will not happen again.
“ I
understand that our performance was not up to the expected standards and I take full responsibility for it.”
Dr. Jameson Tan College President
CHRONICA VILLASEÑOR
PIEVEN JESTER GONZALES
BASC uplifts swine industry amidst ASF
WENDY MAE GUERRERO
ELEVATE MORALITY AMIDST SETBACK. In an effort in organizing a momentous event of VKVVLV members and alumni, Bulacan Agricultural State College commenced its “1st Swine Congress” and discussed different topics regarding the swine industry and gave pointers in fighting against this diseases brought by ASF.
Due to unending reports about spreading of African Swine Fever (ASF) around the country, the Bulacan Agricultural State College strives to boost the swine industry and fight back ASF as they commenced its first BASC Swine Congress held at BASC Farmers Training Center, November 17.
Featuring different discussions regarding the swine industry, how to survive ASF and strategies to avoid the cases of virus, the event also featured the presentation of the products offered by the sponsors for the piggery owners and to the participants.
With the supervision of BASC-Department of Veterinary Medicine, together with Bulacan Provincial Veterinary Office, and Venerable Knight
Veterinarians Fraternity and Venerable Lady Veterinarians Sorority - Upsilon Chapter, they came up with planning and organizing the event which was participated by different Local Government Units (LGUs), private sectors under swine industry, piggery owners, and faculty members of Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program.
As of September 8, 2023, Bulacan is declared to
BASC-GAD enlightens studes about their rights for a VAWC-Free community through seminar
MAILA GALANG
As part of the 2023 18-day campaign to end violence against women, the Bulacan Agricultural State College Gender and Development raised a seminar at BASC Multi-purpose Gymnasium, December 7.
be in the pink zone that serves as buffers where the deadly “virus is not present but they are adjacent” to the locality declared as “red zone” as reported about the updates of ASF status of Bulacan by Dr. Voltaire G. Basinang, Head of Bulacan Provincial Veterinary Office and one of the resource speakers of the said event.
Moreover, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Cecilia Santiago encourages everyone to be courageous and speak up against sexual harassment.
“Kung mayroon man
Attorney Sheigla Nerie V. David, Legal Officer of BASC, discussed to the second year students from Institute of Education and Institute of Engineering and Applied Technology the laws protecting women and their children, and how important for them to be aware of these for the sake of their safety.
ditong nakaranas, or kahit ‘di nakakaranas, o pakiramdam niyo makakaranas kayo bukas o mamaya pag-uwi niyo [ng sexual harassment] hindi ba’t okay na inform niyo kami para maaksyunan natin agad?” said VPAA Santiago.
The seminar concluded as the students pledged to help BASC advocate for a VAWC-free community led by Atty. David.
Kung mayroon man ditong nakakaranas, or kahit hindi pa nkakaranas o pakiramdam niyo makakaranas kayo bukas o mamaya pag-uwi niyo [ng sexual harassment] hindi ba’t okay na inform niyo kami para maaksyunan natin agad?”
Dr. Cecilia Santiago Vice President for Academic Affairs
THE RISE FROM SETBACKS. The Soil Tiller, the official student publication of Bulacan Agricultural State College, brandished their certifications of success as they received the 2nd Best Performing Student Publication for Individual Contests Award in the 22nd RHEPC, January 11-13, 2024.
TST lands 2nd Best for Individual Contests; secures 8 LHEPC qualifiers
Let your frustrations be the fuel to your fire. From landing 7th during the 21st Regional Higher Education Press Conference(RHEPC), The Soil Tiller jumped up as 2nd Best Performing Student Publication for Individual Contests for this year’s 22nd RHEPC with eight delegates to compete for LuzonWide Higher Education Press Conference, held at Palm Cabanas Resort in Arayat, Pampanga, January 11-13.
Out of 474 delegates from 34 participating state and private universities and colleges in Region III, Princess Ira Sarmiento, who remained undefeated as she was once again claimed the 1st Place in Opinion Writing, and 5th place in Editorial Writing; Babylyn Gochangco, 1st place in Traditional Literary Graphics Illustration (Filipino); Justin Samson who got the 2nd place for Pagsulat ng Balita; and Geliza Jaslen Elopre, 2nd place in Developmental Communication Writing, and 8th place in
Photojournalism, bagged the medals and will be representing Region III for their categories in LHEPC 2024.
In addition, Charles Sulit who won as 3rd place in both Pagsulat ng Lathalain and Pagsulat ng Tula, Wendy Mae Guerrero who landed 4th place in News Writing, Chronica Villaseñor, 4th place in Pagsulat ng Editoryal, and Thracy Dafielmoto who got the 5th place in both categories in Feature Writing and Copyreading and Headline Writing will also advance in LHEPC 2024 to be held at Naga City, Albay.
Other delegates of TST namely: Van Lawrence Umerez also bagged the 2nd place in Digital Comic Strip Drawing (English) and 7th place in Digital Editorial Cartooning (Filipino), Eliseo Dela Cruz, 1st place in Digital Literary Graphics Illustration (Filipino), Andrei Pamintuan in Digital Literary Graphics Illustration (English) as 4th
placer, while Paula Jane Concepcion got the 9th place in Infographics, and Regina de San Jose who won as 10th place in Layouting contributed the title of TST as 2nd Best Performing Student Publication for Individual Contests in Region 3.
Moreover, Marie Katherine Palar bagged the Ms. RHEPC 2024 1st Runner Up and various awards such as Choreographer’s Choice Award and Best in Advocacy Video, while Hassel Reyes was also named as Mr. RHEPC 2024 1st Runner Up. Only those who got 1st place to 5th place at RHEPC with a theme: “AI & Ethics: Shaping the Future of Campus Journalism in the Digital Age” will advance to LHEPC 2024 but the digital graphics categories will not be included in the national competition.
The said competition was spearheaded by the Association of Tertiary School Paper Advisers of Region III, Inc.
WENDY MAE GUERRERO
The Soil Tiller speak. write. be true. be free.
BASC orgs unite for a purpose
Leading towards elevated awareness of gender equality, environmental consciousness, and mental health — the Bulacan Agricultural State College Malayang Hiyas along with different student bodies initiated a purposeful Pride Kalakal Initiative and team building, October 20.
“Ang event po na ito ay hindi lamang for gender equality, pero we hit also the environmental awareness,” said Geron M. Payawal, the Punong Hiyas of Malayang Hiyas, as he emphasized how the collective efforts of participating student bodies namely Institute of Education Student Council, BSA Horticulture Society, Science, Technology, Environment and Mathematics Society (STEMS), Society of Executives and Entrepreneurs, Samahan ng Mag-aaral
sa Agham Panlipunan (SAMAPA), Association of Geodetic Engineering Students, and TAU Gamma Phi/Sigma produced not just a clean and green environment inside BASC, but also a successful Pride Kalakal Initiative.
UNBREAKABLE BOND. Elation arose as President of BASC Malayang Hiyas, Geron M. Payawal, along with other student organizations are unified to promote gender equality and at the same time promulgating environmental awareness — with cleaning materials on board to cleanse every corner of the school.
Generating an income which will be used to purchase cleaning materials to be donated to chosen classrooms from the college was the main purpose of the Pride Kalakal Initiative of the said organizations according to Payawal.
While a short seminar by the Malayang Hiyas Adviser Mx. Amie Ramos, a pride walk, and various activities headed and participated by the aforementioned organizations and student council were the main focus of the team building entitled “Team Building Environmental Project: Promoting Mental Health and Gender Equality,” which was a part of the said project.
IED soars BASC passing rate in 2023 LET exams
With a passing rate of 95% from the Bachelor of Elementary Education and 90.79% from the Bachelor of Secondary Education for first timers, Bulacan Agricultural State College is now back on track as they nabbed a high passing rate in the 2023 Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET), December 7.
Out of 178 takers, 145 takers are now newly licensed professional teachers from the
BASC-Institute of Education
with 84.81% overall passing rate for BEEd and 78.79% for BSED.
“It’s very rewarding, syempre lalo na sa Institute of Education. It just reflects na ‘yung collective efforts, commitment and dedication ng IED Family ay nag-pay off,” Mr. Carlo M. Managuil, one of the LET coordinators, expressed.
According to the LET coordinators, they will continue to implement
intervention programs for the graduating students and will continue to track and to reach out to those who already graduated.
“They should attend reviews and interventions na ginagawa ng IEd. Karamihan kasi ay yung repeaters na rin ang ‘di nakakapasa kaya makikita talaga natin yung significant ng nagrereview,” Mr. Jonathan P. Cruz, another LET coordinator as he gave advice to students who did not pass.
“
And event po na ito ay hindi lamang for gender eaquality, pero we hit also the environmental awareness.”
“
It just reflects na ‘yung collective efforts, commitment and dedication ng IED family ay nag-pay off.”
VINCENT TADEO
HASSEL REYES
Geron M. Payawal Punong Hiyas of Malayang Hiyas
Carlo M. Manguil One of
ROYAL PRINCESS CUP
by JUSTIN SAMSON
GIMENO BUMIDA SA ROYAL PRINCESS CUP GIMENO BUMIDA SA
Gintong medalya ang siyang naging bunga ng patuloy na paghasa ni Bulacan Agricultural State College taekwondo player John Llyod Gimeno ng Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness Management 3B sa kaniyang kakayahan matapos manaig sa naganap na 11th Royal Princess Cup Taekwondo Championship (Poomsae Category) sa Bangkok, Thailand nitong ia-7 ng Oktubre.
Hindi na bago sa mundo ng taekwondo si Gimeno makaraang sumungkit ng medalya sa 1st National Taekwondo Championship ng Samahang Taekwondo ng Pilipinas (STP) nitong ika17 hanggang 18 ng Hunyo. Proper time management bilang atleta at mag-aaral, maging intensive training ang ilan sa mga naging susi upang magtagumpay si Gimeno sa kaniyang laban.
“Every training kailangan kong lagpasan kung ano ‘yong mga kaya ko nang gawin sa ngayon. Papahirap siya nang papahirap, dahil hindi ako pwedeng makuntento sa kung ano lang ang kaya ko, I need to do better and surpass my limits,” aniya.
Bilang isa sa mga representante ng bansa, bitbit ni Gimeno sa kaniyang mga balikat ang
responsibilidad na manguna sa nasabing kompetisyon. “I’m very honored to represent not just our school but the Philippines as a whole. Pero grabe ‘yong pressure na nararamdaman ko dahil some people are expecting me to win kasi isa ako sa mga pinadala so dapat galingan ko,” sabi ni Gimeno. Nagbigay rin ng mensahe si Gimeno sa mga kapwa niya atleta na nais magpakitang ng angking husay sa taekwondo.
“To my co-athletes out there, ibigay niyo lang palagi ‘yong best niyo. Darating din ‘yong tamang panahon and opportunity para maipakita niyo ‘yong talent niyo sa maraming tao. Until then, magsipag lang kayo sa training and maintain the right attitude as a professional player,” dagdag niya.
The Soil Tiller speak. write. be true. be free.
SA
BASC Arnis Team dominates
6th Lakan Arnis Tournament Senior Division
by CHRISTELL JOY GLEPO
No one can disarm an army equipped with unpredictable techniques.
With the combination of defensive stances and counterattacks, BASC Arnis Team gripped three golds, six silvers, and four bronzes in the 6th Lakan Arnis Tournament at Robinsons Gapan, November 25, 2023.
The clash began as Jeric Getuya lunged his lightning-fast strikes and weapon manipulations, followed by Rowel Torno’s dynamic footwork patterns, allowing the Reapers to pocket two golds in the pin weight and lightweight division.
Stephanie Dela Cruz never let a second slip to execute her fluid transitions and secure another gold and a one-step-ahead lead to snatch the Seniors Division Champion Trophy.
”Una kabado ako na baka hindi ako manalo kasi ang akin lang, gusto ko lang makapaglaro. Manalo o matalo, bonus na lang po
sa’kin ‘pag nanalo. Advantage na siguro sakin is nandun talaga ‘yung eagerness at determination ‘ko sa laban na ‘yon,” said Dela Cruz. Moreover, as Jaquelyn Mariano, Pier Louie Baltazar, and Che Domingo struck their precision targeting and complex disarming tactics, Jermionie San Juan, John Cris Mercado, and Elizabeth Laxamana fueled their desire to take home six silver medals for the institute.
Ralf Christian Evangelista uttered, “Bilang coach ng BASC arnis team, proud ako sa kanila hindi lamang dahil nanalo sila, kundi dahil unti-unti na nag bubunga mga paghihirap
nila sa training. Sumali kami sa tournament hindi lamang para manalo, kundi para lalo pang lumawak ang kaalaman sa laro. Ang pagkapanalo namin ay maliit na parte lamang kwento ng pagpupursigi at dedication ng mga athletes natin. Ang tunay na panalo ay ung natuto.”
“Kaya laking pasasalamat namin sa buong BASC lalo lalo na kay President Tan sa pag bibigay ng walang humpay suporta para sa team. Salamat din sa lahat ng senior arnis players na nag gugol ng oras para lalo pang lumakas ang team ng walang hinihingi na kapalit. Taos-pusong pag-pupugay mula sa BASC ARNIS TEAM. PUGAY!” he added.
Kyle Paula Villaverde, Russel Ann Pejoro, Aj Paraon, and Monica Rivera end the brawl with their outstanding feints, timing, and competitive spirits, enabling the BASC
Arnis Team to nip the Seniors Division Champion Trophy.
“ Proud ako sa kanila hindi lamang dahil nanalo sila, kundi dahil untiunti na nag bubunga mga paghihirap nila sa training.
Ralf Christian Evangelista BASC Arnis Team Coach
Damara
Steeplechase is the perfect event if you are seeking a thrilling and challenging sport that you might not have encountered before. In this athletics event, athletes will go through hurdles, water jumps, and obstacles to complete the run.
The variety of obstacles that athletes must face makes steeplechase so unique. They have to handle water jumps that require a lot of balance and coordination in addition to getting over obstacles. It is one of athletics’ most physically demanding events due to the combination of speed and endurance required to complete the course.
Steeplechase originated in Ireland in the 18th century as a horse race in which competitors galloped through the open ground while jumping over barriers like fences and ditches. It was made as an Olympic sport in the 20th century. Despite being a part of the Olympic Games since 1920, it is less well-known, unlike other sports like sprinting and long-distance running.
Over time, the distance and number of obstacles have been standardized. The current Olympic steeplechase event consists of a 3000 to 5000 meters race with 28 fixed barriers and seven water jumps. Additionally, the obstacles in steeplechase are set at a fixed height of 36 inches for men and 30 inches for women, which is lower than the standard hurdle height in other track events.
Being a skilled steeplechase player requires a unique combination of speed, strength, and agility. Stamina is essential to maintain the pace throughout the race while possessing the ability to jump over obstacles effortlessly. The best steeplechase runners also possess extraordinary mental toughness as they strive hard to overcome the physical and mental challenges of racing. This rigorous test of athleticism and strategy requires intense training and dedication.
Hector Begeo is a Filipino athlete who has made a name for himself in
the steeplechase. Born in Ilocos Sur in 1992, Begeo commenced his athletic career as a long-distance runner before transitioning to steeplechase in 2014. Since then, he has proven himself as one of the best steeplechase athletes in the Philippines, taking home multiple medals from the Southeast Asian Games and setting a national record with an 8:56.02 time.
Begeo’s success in the steeplechase is a testament to the growing popularity and competitiveness of the event in the Philippines. Other Filipino athletes who have excelled in steeplechase include Christopher Ulboc Jr., who won the gold medal at the 2011 SEA Games, and Junrey Bano, who won bronze at the 2017 SEA Games.
Steeplechase is not commonly known in the Philippines. Nonetheless, those who try to watch will witness some of the sport’s most amazing performances. We will see the next steeplechase event in Paris 2024 Olympics again. The 2024 Summer Olympics will start on July 26, 2024, to August 11, 2024.
The Bulacan Agricultural State College (BASC) has actively participated in various sports and athletic events under the State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (SCUAA). Their commitment to promoting sports and physical fitness among their students is evident through their consistent participation in basketball, volleyball, taekwondo, badminton, chess, and other disciplines. However, there is one area where BASC currently needs more representationwater sports, such as swimming, in their SCUAA lineup.
Jumping
The Thrilling World of Steeplechase over hurdles and water:
by ANGELO
Equipped with dominating tactics and objective controls, BASC Outlaws ruled the 1st Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Tournament after sweeping Gods of Goddesses in the best-of-three finals, 2-0, at Agulto’s Pavilion, Sapang Putol, last Saturday.
The brawl began with BASC Outlaw’s on-point connection and focus led by Reynald Darryl Santos’ strategic decisions on which heroes his teammates must pick to counter the competitors’ line up and maintain lane control for gold advantage, leaving the group with no space for mistakes.
Furthermore, a student from Bachelor of Science in Information Technology 4b, Michael Justin Gomez, already had his eyes to grab every opportunity he has to distract the opposing team’s heroes and defend the turrets, allowing Rendel Jewel Beltran, a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture major in Animal Science 4c learner, to secure the buffs and steal the enemy’s resources.
Meanwhile, in the domain of Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness 2a, Aron Son Pascual played safe and farmed in the upper lane to avoid being picked off by the opponent, gain more gold, and buy items to increase their shield and critical attacks.
The heat increased in
BASC Outlaws
snatches first title at Bulak Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Tournament
by CHRISTELL JOY GLEPO
the land of dawn as Santo’s hero, Lapu-Lapu, managed to kill two opponents, Ixia and Diggie, and escape. At the same time, John Edmar Cuz, a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine 2a student, rotated to provide support and wiped out the remaining heroes along with his co-players.
However, one of their rivals attempted to push until the base turret that almost ended the battle, yet Beltran returned in time to defend the tower.
With the team’s continuous combos, skillful outplays and epic comebacks, Santos nipped the overall MVP title as Beltran and Cruz clinched the best jungler and roamer award respectively.
“The advantage we have is our experience. As the captain, I have experience in the competitive scene and have gathered numerous championships, runner-up titles, and high rankings in MLBB. Likewise, my teammate Beltran has experience in the thrilling scenes in San Ildefonso and has also been a top global player in MLBB rankings. Although Cruz is still a rookie in tournaments, he continues to demonstrate his skills in our matches,” said BASC Outlaw and
SCUAA MLBB captain Santos. Santos added that Gomez has participated in SCUAA and other tournaments, accumulating a lot of experience. Thus, Pascual gained experience when they participated in last year’s SCUAA and showed significant improvement. Hence, the BSAB 4a student, Crystaline Borile took part in the triumph by serving as BASC Outlaw’s reserve mid laner whereas Aldrianne Concepcion, hailing from Bachelor of Science in Business Administration 3c, became their analyst and Clarence Steven Liwag, from BSBA 2c and the team’s coach, performed his best through guiding and boosting each members’ spirits and confidence.
