Ang Pamantasan Vol. 40 Issue 3

Gutoc, Diokno talk in CHASS Leadership Summit 2020

The Official Student Publication of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila Volume 40, Issue 3 • December 2019 - February 2020

Elecyl CABALQUINTO

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Medical students gather before university officials’ reports on budget transparency

Med students assemble vs tuition hike Marella Iris PALCES

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LM College of Medicine (PLMCM) students gather to voice out concerns regarding issues over tuition and other fees increase (TOFI) to the university administration in an assembly last February 28, 2020 at the Bukod Tanging Bulwagan.

Organized by the PLM CM Student Council (CMSC), the event was called

by President Emmanuel Leyco himself in response to the Student Rights and Welfare (STRAW) Assembly held by the council last February 17 at the Ospital ng Maynila Academics Building.

The purpose of the STRAW Assembly was to relay information to the CM student body about a tuition fee adjustment proposed during the PLM Assessment and Strategic Planning held last February 5, which was then succeeded by the CMSC publishing official statements against the matter.

University officials in attendance were President Emmanuel Leyco, Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs (AVPAA) Dr. Flordeliza Ferrer, Vice President for Finance and Management (VPFM) Ms. Luzviminda Landicho, PLM-CM Dean Dr. Angeline Alabastro, and other university personnel.

Rationale of the proposed tuition increase According to a report presented by VPFM Landicho regarding the university’s annual budget and its allocations, the majority of the school’s operating expenses come from funding from the city government of Manila.

She reported that due to undergraduates not needing to pay tuition because of R.A. 10931 or the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act, the administration found the need to increase tuition and other fees collected from the professional and graduate schools. She also stated that there is surplus from previous years’ budget that allows them to keep such increases to a minimum, if not go through with it at all.

However, she explained that one of

the major reasons why the university needed yearly increases in budget was due to personnel management and promotions.

“We have 161 personnel, 90 of which are academic positions po. If you notice may mga faculty po tayong Instructor III pa lang ang ranggo, pero as a matter of fact po ‘yung iba sa kanila doktor na. Eh ‘pagka gan’on po, ‘pag pina-pirate sila ng private school aalis at aalis sila sa atin. And we want to make sure that these faculty stays with us,” said Landicho.

Other expenses made by the university was renovation and rehabilitation of school buildings, supply and delivery of medical, dental and laboratory equipment, furniture and fixtures of classrooms, installation of projectors and other equipment, and others.

In a separate report about the budget utilization of the Medicine Education Development Fund (MEDFund), Dr. Alabastro explained that the fees collected from the students, which amounts to 9 to 10 million yearly, is not enough to fund all of the college’s expenses.

“We are spending more than what we are collecting from you every year.

Mayroon po tayong mga savings [from MEDFund] which we can use in times of need that we can get from the university fund,” she said.

Alabastro also stated that while MEDFund has allocations for faculty development, most of the time the expenses needed to attend training and seminars come out of the faculty’s own pockets.

MEDFund was formed in 1994 in conformance to Board Resolution No. 1457, which stated that every medical student pays a contribution to the fund used exclusively for the improvement of facilities, faculty promotion and training, books and supplies, student participation in conventions, and sponsorship of seminars. The rate of each student’s payment depends on their family’s annual income during their year of entry in PLM-CM.

EDITORIAL

Public University for the public READ ON PAGE 3

“Ang PLM kasi local po, hindi po tayo sa national [government].

May pagkakaiba kasi ‘yung national government ang nag-su-support… it is different when our funds would come from the local government,” said Dean Alabastro, “Hindi po enough ang nakokolekta doon sa MEDFund for its purpose, it is not enough. Kaya nga tinitipid natin siya despite the fact that we need more. We need to improve more, kasi talagang kulang na kulang tayo, but we cannot do that.”

However, during the University Strategic Planning, VPFM Landicho mentioned that the unspent portion of the MEDFund after an academic year is being transferred to the University’s general funds and can be utilized for the expenses of other colleges.

Med students demand for transparency Throughout the reports by the officials, the students attending the event commented on how high the figures rose for the school’s expenses and how inconsistent they were to what they actually see and use for their everyday classes.

“What we want is specific breakdowns po nung 9 million [allocated for medical equipment] po kasi yun po talaga yung gusto naming malaman, para magkaroon po tayo ng mas magandang transparency po,” said a medical student.

Another student added that despite the large funding for such equipment, students continue to use old instruments such as clinical mannequins that are too bad for wear. Dr. Alabastro said that the reason why such equipment deteriorate is because the students themselves do not take care of them.

However, VP Landicho said that the document where the specific details of procurements and other expenses for CM is disclosed publicly and can be accessed by everyone.

Furthermore, students clarified that the reason why they were under the assumption of tuition hike was

FEATURES

because the administration asked the CMSC for a consultation regarding the matter.

A student also asked why the tuition fee increase proposal came so sudden as they expected it would take a long time of careful planning and proper communication.

“Personally, parang hindi enough na itong nag-iisang assembly lang ang meron [ang TOFI]. As what’s happening now po ang dami pa pong unanswered questions [and concerns] ang students.

Bakit parang ngayong February lang po natin, tayong lahat nase-stress over this? Why does this feel so crammed, so sudden, and so overwhelming?” asked the student.

Pres. Leyco answered this through his message to the students, saying that there was no proposal for TOFI made during the Strategic Planning.

He also added that the tuition fees collected only cover about 30% of the university’s true operating costs and are not enough to cover all of the expenses, even with the reimbursement from Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) Unified Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education Act (UniFAST) program.

Despite the shortcomings, he commended the students for achieving the same footholds as other schools with bigger budgets.

“Somebody [here] is probably spending 10 million per student throughout the course versus institutions who are spending 100 million per student, not exaggerating, and yet you achieve the same level of accomplishment… We are short of resources, but I don’t think we are short of enthusiasm from all sectors,” said Leyco.

The president also said that although the administration did consider an increase in tuition and that the finance management did the computations to see if such increases will be able to provide for the needed upgrades in facilities, the resulting funds would still be too minimal for such renovations.

READ MORE ON PAGE 2

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arawi Civic Leader Samira Gutoc and Human Rights Lawyer Atty. Jose Manuel “Chel” Diokno take part at the annual College of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences (CHASS) Leadership Summit on January 30, 2020 at the Justo Albert Auditorium (JAA).

With this year’s theme “Making a Difference,” the event tackled leadership in different forms: for oneself, at school, and leadership even outside the campus.

Marawi Civic Leader Samira Gutoc encouraged the youth to be volunteers and to fight against corruption, adding that more disruption could arise if the youth give up to achieve for the country’s betterment. “Gising tayo. Speak up.

Do something,” she said.

“There are 3 million blind people in the Philippines, but you can make a blind person see by fighting for justice, and making them see [the] light through the voice that you give. Please be an open-eyed person for the blind person,” said Gutoc.

In an exclusive interview, Gutoc mentioned the “Diversity and Equality in Leadership,” wherein she shared her stand between the ongoing tension in Iran and America, explaining that the tension between the two countries should end because it causes various repercussions to our fellow Filipinos living and working in the said countries.

Meanwhile, Atty. Chel Diokno discussed the importance of “Standing Against Injustice,” and called students to fight for the rights of the Filipinos, “Manindigan tayo. Magsama-sama tayo upang ipaglaban ang karapatan ng tao, ang karapatan natin.”

Diokno affirmed that leaders should prioritize their people more than themselves.

“Sawa na tayo sa traditional leaders na puro sarili ang iniisip. Ang tunay na lider ay yung naghahanap ng paraan, hindi yung pansarili lang,” he said.

Furthermore, CHASS Student Council (CHASS-SC) Vice President Kervin Gagui claimed that the event was a success.

“For me, in the perspective of the organizers, ‘yung pag-welcome ng estudyante doon pa lang sa event itself sobrang laki na niya [success]. Kasi ‘yung iba may classes, and let’s face [the] reality na kahit may excuse letters, hindi minsan in-a-allow ng prof. Pero because of the wisdom to learn and grow with these speakers, with this activity, mas pinili nilang lumabas ng classroom,” said Gagui.

The leadership summit was also attended by advocates and speakers which include Patricia Laygo, former PLM Supreme Student Council (PLM-SSC) President, who discussed “Challenges and Decision Making”; Kabataan Partylist’s Hon. Sarah Elago discussed about “Good Governance and Social Responsibility”; Ezekiel Ganus Galanto advocating for “Protection for the Environment”; Emmanuel Mirus Ponon advocating for “Overcoming Poverty”; Raymond Palatino advocating for “Peace and Justice”; Christian George Eppie advocating for “Social Equality”; and Dara Mae Tuazon lecturing about “The Roles of Young Leaders to Restore Humanity.”

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The Official Student Publication of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila Volume 40, Issue 3 • December 2019 - February 2020

PLM takes precautionary measures against nCoV Raven VILLALUNA

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Using a digital thermal scanner, inspector checks the body temperature of students,employees, and visitors at the university entrance.

Photo by: Raven Villaluna

amantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila University Health Service (PLM UHS) stations inspectors at the University entrances to check the body temperature of the students, employees, and visitors as a precautionary measure against 2019 novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV), starting on January 30, 2020.

According to University Physician, Ms. Maria Ana Mariano, MD, soaps and hand sanitizers will also be put inside all comfort rooms in the campus.

As of writing, no student was detected with increased body temperature yet.

However, she mentioned that the number of students who are visiting the University clinic rises, "Tumataas ang rates ng pumupunta sa clinic kasi may

ubo't sipon.”

According to Mariano, if students were identified with a heightened body temperature, they must be immediately sent to the University clinic to receive necessary treatment. If needed, students will be sent to their homes or the hospital, and will be issued with sick leave.

Moreover, she advised students to eat healthy, get proper sleep and rest, take vitamins and supplements to strengthen immune system, and to wear appropriate mask if available.

She also mentioned to practice the coughing etiquette: to cover the mouth while coughing and sneezing to prevent spread of germs through airborne droplets.

Furthermore, according to a second year BS Biology student, “It was a good initiative [of the University] to counter the spreading of the virus.”

The checking of temperature upon entering the campus will persist until the 2019-nCoV will be confirmed controlled and secured in the country.

2019-nCov is a new strain of coronavirus that has caused severe pneumonia in several cases, originally, in Wuhan City, Hubei Province of China, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

On 20 January 2020, Department of Health (DOH) reported the first case of 2019-nCov in the Philippines in a 38-year-old female Chinese national.

PLM implements single-use plastic ban

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List of food and drink concessionaires that offer discounts for customers with the additional costs.

Photo Courtesy: PLM Website

Mecaela GUMADE

amantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila officially implements the ban of single-use plastics in the university effective last February 17, 2020.

The launched Bring-Your-OwnUtensils (BYOU) Campaign encourages the members of the PLM community to use reusable utensils, containers, and tumblers instead of single-use plastics to contribute to the advocacy of ‘saving the planet’.

According to the PLM’s official website announcement, all drink and food concessionaires that support the campaign will offer discounts to the customers who will bring reusable containers and utensils while those who don't will be charged with additional costs.

In exchange for plastic utensils, other food and drink concessionaires also offer the option of selling stainless utensils for Php 5 each to the customers.

Jubel Sumagang, a 2nd Year BS Psychology student, stated that she supports the campaign because of its advocacy yet observed that the dissemination of its details upon implementation wasn’t widely known by the students.

“Some students were not aware that the prices for the food they’ll buy would ‘supposedly’ cost less [if they bring reusable containers and utensils]. The prices for the food didn’t even change even with the implementation of BYOU. Instead, it added cost if you buy the food with utensils.”

Additionally, she suggested that if the university wants to effectively cut the usage of single-use plastics on the campus, it should just be “banned altogether rather than adding another payment for it."

The PLM website released the list of food and drink concessionaires that support the BYOU campaign.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 No tuition fee increase, admin denies In an interview with Dr. Alabastro after the assembly, the dean clarified that there were no such increases happening in either the tuition fee payments or the MEDFund and that they did not know where “the students got this information.”

“We cannot say that there cannot be an increase in the future,” Dr. Alabastro said upon asking if the possibility of the increase in tuition will not be dismissed in the future. “That is up to the needs of the university.”

She also said that while the students were entitled to their own sentiments, it was “disagreeable” that they started posting in social media about the issue without verifying if there was such a thing yet.

In contrast to the administrations’ statements, the CMSC said that their campaign against TOFI “has been spurred by information coming from the admin themselves.”

“During the Strategic Planning, it was clearly presented by VP Landicho that they are exploring ‘tuition fee adjustment (professional and graduate schools).’ The admin might be reiterating that there’s no official tuition fee proposal but there certainly is the idea of a tuition hike being entertained,” the CMSC stated.

The council also mentioned that they were in constant communication with their College Secretary about the scheduling for the consultation on TOFI and that they have already requested an advanced copy of the draft for it. “‘Di rin na-satisfy ang students sa kung [saan] napupunta ang MEDFund given na ‘di nakapag-present ng data ang admin from the requests years back na supposedly ay procured at available na ngayon sa college,” said the council, expressing that the assembly’s goal to present transparency to the students was not apparent at all and that it only gave more concerns to the students.

“Victories of the student movement” “The students’ campaign against a tuition hike was not unfounded… Regardless, we would still prefer our student body to be this proactive on issues instead of being reactive or passively waiting for an official announcement first before doing something in preparation for that issue,” said the council.

Regardless of the students’ discontent on their unanswered questions, the CMSC claimed that the student assembly as well as the announcement that there would be no tuition fee increase in the next academic year (AY) as “victories of the student movement,” stating that although there will be no tuition hike next year, “it will always be entertained as a source of income for the university.”

“Thus, students must remain vigilant about developments on the issue,” the council stated. “The CMSC is always looking forward to meetings and consultations with the admin on various issues. With additional questions [on MEDFund] arising from the data presented during the assembly, the students’ campaign on TOFI will definitely continue.”

PLM CN holds 1st MVJ International Nursing Advancement and Scientific Conference

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Amiel Rose AQUINO

amantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila’s College of Nursing (PLM CN) faculty and student body hold first-ever MVJ International Nursing Advancement and Scientific Conference Series, inspired by the works and teachings of the late PLM CN Dean Emeritus Mary Vita Beltran Jackson (MVJ), on February 2 to 3, 2020 at the Citystate Tower Hotel, Ermita, Manila.

With the theme “Cultivate the Culture of Creative Learning,” the seminar aimed to cultivate, foster, and maintain beneficial relationships between the PLM Nursing Alumni, the PLM College of Nursing, and the City of Manila guided by the application of teachings by the late MVJ to develop world-class nurses that will contribute to service excellence.

The two-day conference was attended by speakers from the local and international scene who shared their knowledge and skills on Leadership, Clinical Practice, and Nursing Education.

The event was made possible through the efforts of PLMCN, Samahan ng Pagkalinga ng Pamantasan Incorporated in collaboration with ICPD Gateway, Philippine Nurses Association National Capital Region (NCR) Zone 1, and the PLM CN Student Council.

PLM hosts Pagyamanin Likas Musika’s 8th Rondalla Festival

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Mecaela GUMADE

amantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila hosts Kwerdas ng Pag-ibig at Pagkakaisa (Strings of Love and Unity), a recital showcasing the talents of Rondalla youth musicians, at the University Activity Center on February 15, 2020.

Marked as the 8th Rondalla Festival, the cultivating activity was launched by the non-profit organization Pagyamanin Likas Musika and was attended by youth beneficiaries from various schools and communities across the country as they gathered in this celebration of music and culture.

George Gange, the organization’s Project Director and also a university alumna, emphasized their “movement” to preserve and enrich the country’s Rondalla tradition by giving opportunities to the youth in the underprivileged sectors to learn how to play the instruments.

Gange also highlighted the contribution of their initiative on encouraging youth beneficiaries to have a more positive outlook in life, noting that some of them become leaders in their communities.

“Marami na ang nag-improve ng outlook in life, not really in Rondalla, but also samahan, training, camaraderie, along the way ay magkakaibigan na.”

The Official Student Publication of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila Volume 40, Issue 3 • December 2019 - February 2020

opinion

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EDITOR: Raven Khate Villaluna

Public University for the public

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lan for tuition and other fee increases (TOFI) for the professional and graduate schools, including the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila College of Medicine (PLM-CM), was announced during the University Strategic Planning 2020 held on February 5. The proposed TOFI will be used to generate finances for the development of facilities and materials, and other student and faculty activities in the CM. PLM, mainly funded by the City of Manila, must uphold its character as a public university providing accessible and quality education to everyone.

Education is a right and should never be commercialized.

Students of a “prestigious” public university should not be a source of income and should never carry the weight of the University’s plans for the development facilities and resources.

According to PLM Vice President for Finance and Management Luzviminda Landicho during the University Strategic Planning, the Medical Education Development Fund (MEDFund) is spent exclusively for the CM. However, at the end of the academic year, the unspent portion of the fund is being transferred to the Pamantasan’s General Fund and can be used as budget allocations within and outside the CM. Additionally, during the consultation called by the University President Emmanuel Leyco, held on February 28, it was mentioned that the collected MEDFund from the students, ranging from 9 to 10 million annually, is not sufficient for the college’s expenses. Based on the PLM-CM Policies, Guidelines, and Procedure, the annual tuition fee of a student ranges from zero to Php 127,000 approximately based on

PER OREM

“

Florianne Khaye GONZALES

The genuine reason behind our country’s aggravating predicament towards HIV and AIDS management despite the others being successful in diminishing its prevalence still lies in the way how the healthcare system is taken over.

the categories they fall into. Aside from this, TOFI will inevitably increase the financial burden of the medical student as aside from the tuition, they also pay a MEDFund calculated based on each student’s family income, ranging from Php 4,600 to Php 12,000 (based on the CMSC’s estimated computation), which increases 5% yearly.

The TOFI to fund the rehabilitation and developments of the university, without transparency, deliberate consultations, and close coordination with the involved student body, removes the public character of PLM. CM students claim that the consultation to TOFI called by the administration seemed rash and “overwhelming,” and many questions and concerns are still unanswered, including the concrete breakdown of allocations of the MEDFund. For the past years, the CM student body has continuously been demanding clarity and requesting for the objective budget breakdown of the MEDFund. According to them, the consultation only raised more concerns. Although consultations and assemblies between the students and the University officials are unprecedented in comparison to the previous administrations, it should never be deemed as a privilege for it is a right of the student body to inquire and be informed. An assembly or discussion does not necessarily equate to transparency.

Despite the insufficiency of and worn-out equipment in the CM, according to the CM students, PLM is able to top the Physician Licensure Exam (PLE) yearly; producing top-notch and service-oriented doctors. However, this should not be idealized and tolerated.

Being a “prestigious” public university

The Official Student Publication of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila

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producing proficient graduates does not mean having substandard resources while students are being resilient. It is decent and gratifying for our University officials to applaud and recognize the efforts of the doctors that PLM produces yearly and their competency to achieve the same level with other medical universities in the country despite the inadequacy, it exhibits the lack of accountability and complacency on the University’s part.

To sustain quality education, efforts must go both ways–from the students and the institution.

In addition, being a graduate of a reputable public university is not limited to topping licensure examinations, rather, it includes being critical and participating actively inside and outside the institution. CMSC’s Facebook post regarding the calls against the proposed TOFI is not “disagreeable,” for it was posted after the administration’s announcement and after several discus-

sions and inquiry of the CM students.

While students are responsible to support their stand and calls regarding their concerns with facts, University officials are also responsible for the clarity and concreteness of their statements.

Similar to the previous years, PLM ranked first after garnering a 100% passing rate in 2019 PLE. These recognitions brought by the students to the University must not be compensated and must not be exploited for profit and funding. Although the administration dismissed and denied the TOFI, the initial announcement of it can indicate its possibility. PLM must remain committed to its mandate in providing high quality and accessible education. A public university producing public-oriented graduates ought to be for the public.

AIDS: An Implausible Death Sentence

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aunting as it is, discussions about Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) certainly put us in a state of trepidation.

Who would not be when figures attest to the worsening condition of this seemingly imperishable health issue in our country?

To describe one's perception as “upset” may just be an understatement given that the rest of the world is celebrating for being able to slow down the transmission of HIV within their respective nations except for those whose

homelands are left—which include the Philippines. Tagged as the country with the "fastest-growing epidemic rate," something must be off.

As a part of the celebration of world's AIDS day every first of December, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM), with the initiative of its student councils particularly the College of Science Student Council (CSSC) and the College of Nursing Student Council (CNSC), held a fundraising activity last February 15, 2020, through a fun run that supported the said cause.

It must have been easy to say that such

an event is but one out of the countless occasions that shared the same vision.

Back in 2015, Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach audibly expressed her advocacy which involved HIV awareness. Surely, we are enormously acquainted with that topic.

However, it seems uncanny why the Philippines becomes the only country in Southeast Asia where the number of new HIV cases arise. The United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) anticipates a dramatic increase of HIV cases in the country from about 56,000 in 2016 to 142,000 in 2022 and even up READ MORE ON PAGE 5

EDITORIAL BOARD AND STAFF RAVEN KHATE VILLALUNA Editor-in-Chief MECAELA MAE GUMADE Associate Editor NICOLE ANNE MENDOZA Managing Editor AMIEL ROSE AQUINO News Editor KEANE ANDRE ESCOBAR Features Editor ANNE NICOLE CARIG Literary Editor INA FRANCESCA GONZALES Filipino Editor KENT MARVIN MOJICA Sports Editor DWIGHT JUSTLEY ULEP Online Editor MAUREEN DOROTHY MERCA MARELLA IRIS PALCES News Staff ALAIZA ELAINE MANANSALA ART CEDRIK ROMERO Features Staff FLORIANNE KHAYE GONZALES ELECYL CABALQUINTO Filipino Staff PATRICIA GABRIELLE MARQUEZ PHOEBE STACEY ALMARIO Literary Staff JOHN DENZEL CASTILLO Sports Staff FATIMA RAYYAN SALABI JESSA YUKI DAVID KEITH KENDRICK DIONISIO Online Staff SHARMAINE MARARAC Board Secretary ARISTOTLE CASTRONUEVO Circulations Manager NISHA HERNANDEZ Business Manager IBANICA DIONISIO Photojournalist CARL JUSTINE MOGOL ASHLEY MAY HERNANDEZ Illustrators KIM ANGELO NAVAJA JHON BERT PAYOS Layout Artists PROF. NORLIZA M. NORDAN Technical Adviser

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opinion

The Official Student Publication of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila Volume 40, Issue 3 • December 2019 - February 2020

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4 to 201,000 by the year 2025. Dr. Edsel Maurice Salvaña, the director of UP Manila Institute of Molecular Biology also stated that in 2008, there was only a single case reported every day, meanwhile, at the moment, it reaches a record of 35 per day.

The age group of those affected to the greatest extent also changed over time. The Department of Health (DOH) estimated a 170% increase in testing positive among those aged 15-24. Considering that the age range presumes the time when one must learn at schools and different institutions, why does a certain disease that could be evaded through health education continuously prevail, even heightening its supposed rate?

In response to this, the Philippine HIV and AIDS Policy Act of 2018 (RA 11166) was signed January of last year to repeal its 20-year old predecessor, RA 8504 or the Philippine AIDS Prevention and Control Act of 1998. Under the new law, antiretroviral drugs will be free of

CASCADE EFFECT

Fatima Rayyan SALABI

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The BYOU campaign’s hashtag, #UnitedForPlasticFreePLM, lays out the core of the climate change movement.

We are capable of change for the better, if not the best, but we must move in solidarity, and be consistent.

charge to the citizens diagnosed with HIV. Also, heavier penalties are charged to those people who would discriminate, spread false information, and disclose details that must remain confidential.

This includes a fine of Php 50,0005,000,000 or possible imprisonment between one to 12 years.

Undoubtedly evenhanded, the law could easily bring optimism over the anguished people. But the antagonistic results seem to take over. The blame is put within the people's unresponsiveness. This could be the present-day situation yet the cause must not be neglected since such passivity would less likely to occur if the law is properly enforced in the first place.

Sanctions are given to those who victimize people with HIV but the system itself already discriminates from the very beginning. The Philippines still uses the opt-in testing method that primarily requires a complex way of testing the possible HIV-infected people

through long versions of forms and comprehensive history takings. On the other hand, the opt-out testing which is used in other countries like the United States adapts to a simplified approach that easily makes it seem like a part of one's regular healthcare routine. This frontline barrier makes the Filipinos reluctant towards the crucial screening.

Antiretroviral drugs are also handed over to the affected parties without any cost; nevertheless, condoms are neither easily accessible nor affordable at all, at least for the less fortunate members of the society. Practicing safe sex is among the most effective method to decrease not only the risk of acquiring HIV but all the other Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) as well. If such is roughly attainable by everyone, especially those in the lower classes, to prevent different STDs among our population is almost impossible.

It is not also a surprise if the numbers of affected individuals who

are more educated are comparatively higher than those less educated ones.

Awareness and accessibility indeed are powers that only the privileged ones could afford most of the time. Those who barely make a living would come to the healthcare professionals to seek help only if they already are in bad shape. To become a part of the resources-limited group of society is unfortunate.

Overall, the genuine reason behind our country's aggravating predicament towards HIV and AIDS management despite the others being successful in diminishing its prevalence still lies in the way how the healthcare system is taken over. More than ever, the law should also focus on the never-ending sex education to instill a sense of responsibility to everyone while generating a way to put everything needed to be accessed by the public unrestricted.

Besides, the concerned government officials must act as the leaders upon completely evading, if not, reducing at

least the stigma connected with HIV, AIDS, and other STDs. Also, certain methods could be adapted in present times, such as the opt-out testing approach. Furthermore, improved screening centers could also contribute a lot to make the situation better, with the vision of diagnosing patients efficiently, as early and as many as one can to provide proper treatments and interventions.

As conferred by Dr. Salvaña, with only five years deducted to the life expectancy of an individual infected with HIV as compared to smoking that accounts to (-)12 years, it is concluded that HIV is less deadly than smoking. Only if the law and its implementation would not be anti-poor, one could easily agree that it is unjust to refer to having AIDS or HIV as an automatic death sentence, implausible, indeed.

Little Things Can Make a Big Difference

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larm bells ring in every land, in rainforests, in mountains, in oceans, in ice, simultaneously, yet still cheeks remain unturned by the clamor, maybe even feeling indignant. We have been talking about climate change, passively or actively, with friends or with a crowd, on social media or on a physical platform. We

live our ordinary lives in our homes, schools, markets and workplaces. Most of us, if not all, care for clean air, clean water, and a safe and healthy habitat.

We are not, however, adequately aware of how to remedy this problem that the natural world, along with its inhabitants, is facing––maybe, we don’t even recognize the problem. In the Philip-

insulating layer of polyethylene plastic takes more than 20 years; aluminum cans take about 80-200 years, and aluminum foil degrades for about a hundred years. Although it does not compare to plastic that takes about 10-10,000 years to decompose, most of the alternatives for single-use plastic materials are also in their own way de-

We, humans, affect each other as much as each species in an ecosystem ensures the survival of all inhabitant species and as much as each shake and each wave in the ocean makes up a tsunami.

The BYOU campaign’s hashtag, #UnitedForPlasticFreePLM, lays out the core of the climate change movement. We are capable of change for the

have seen the alarming studies and statistics of scientists worldwide, in consensus. Likewise, we have heard the deniers, mostly driven by their profits from fossil fuel or funded by such companies. We have expressed concern along with youth and children climate change advocates, or maybe we have even participated in demonstrations of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) demanding companies to cut their carbon footprint. Most of us have attempted, and maybe even succeeded, in cutting our own consumer waste by switching to renewable utensils and eco-friendly consumables. But if you are like I, maybe you are, despite our collective awareness of the human impact on the natural world and on its non-human inhabitants, pessimistic that we can adequately make up for the destructive exploitation perpetuated by our race within just a short period of time.

With more than 9,250 vascular plant species, one-third endemic or native to the Philippines, and over 530 bird species, about 185 endemic and over 60 threatened; with at least 165 mammal species and 325 species of reptiles and amphibians, more than two-thirds of which are endemic, and nearly 21,000 recorded insect species, about 70 percent endemic; and with a human population of 108 million people––the Philippines is a hotspot of life and diversity.

It is the Filipinos’ and the government’s responsibility to be consciously aware and willing to adopt changes in the way we consume and the way we

pines, environmental campaigns are arguably dormant, but nevertheless gradually reaching a more inclusive audience.

Similarly, the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila have long since groped on environmental conservation, failing to address anything significant.

But recently, a University campaign has shifted policies to reduce plastic waste in the campus, specifically in the school cafeteria. We do hope it doesn’t end there. On February 26, the University on its official Facebook page posted a new campaign slogan, “Bring Your Own Utensils” or BYOU, banning all disposable plastics on campus and encouraging everyone, students, faculty and staff, to consistently bring their own reusable food containers and utensils. The school’s food and drink concessionaires were also to participate, giving particular discounts to customers joining the initiative.

The effect isn’t expected to be as green as the campaign’s poster though.

The ban was constricted to the vendors inside the campus offering plastic containers to their customers, resulting in them opting for paper-made ones, which are thrown away right after they have served their purpose of holding the food or liquid, and students can still bring plastic in from outside the campus. Add to that, there is also the problem of improper waste segregation despite the labeled segregation bins across the campus ground.

Paper waste decomposes after 2-6 weeks, while a typical paper cup with an

structive for the environment, especially when accumulated. It does make one think, “Then, what are all these for?”

One can hear consumers argue sometimes, “Kahit naman ‘di ako magpa-plastic, andyan na rin ‘yan, nagawa na. Anong pinagkaiba?” “Kung walang mag-papa-plastic, e walang gagawa ng plastic,” and the argument goes on.

We ask, “Who is responsible for all of these? Isn’t it the conglomerates, the big companies, the industries?” “Why shouldn’t I take the accompanying bag, when the packaging is included in the item’s cost?” “How about the lower-income sector? They can’t afford buying in bulk, you can’t keep them out of sachet-packed goods,” “How should I switch to eco-friendly alternatives if I can’t afford them?” and again, it goes on.

But this is not a column that attempts to answer such questions, nor to give tips on how to help conserve the environment. Those are already widespread; one only needs to look. But to raise awareness needs not only information, it needs encouragement and understanding.

On a side note, recent studies revealed a pattern that bigger ecosystems collapse at a faster rate than smaller ones. That is because domino effects, or “cascades,” occur at a quicker pace in systems where habitats and species are interconnected, which is more common in earth’s large biomes. It is ironic to point that what helps these larger systems build resilience is also what may amplify its collapse. And of course, I am not just talking about biodiversity.

better, if not the best, but we must move in solidarity, and be consistent. The solution will not end with an individual or a group, nor even in our time, but it will start from each of us. It doesn’t necessarily rely solely on the young generations either; the government and various institutions must lead the youth and the masses towards a purer world.

Pressure is not the answer to behavioral change, rather it is the willingness to change coupled with the right reinforcement.

As environmental philosophy has drawn up as its fundamental questions, “what duties do humans have with respect to the environment, and why?” we indeed must question the ways we live our lives. And yes, in a sense, thinking about climate change can mean thinking about our existence, for in the very core of this clamor is the eventuality of the world. It might be millions or billions of years before the earth dies, but our human lives are far shorter for us to lay back and disassociate ourselves with the problems we, collectively, are facing.

No good thought is nobler than another, no righteous act is grander than another, just like no race is superior to another race. Every thinking helps and creates a bigger pool of ideas, and every initiative counts and makes way for solving bigger problems. I end with adopting the words of Gandalf, the grey Wizard from Tolkien’s novel: it is not the big differences that matter the most nor are they the most powerful, but rather the small ordinary everyday deeds and changes that we make.

The Official Student Publication of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila Volume 40, Issue 3 • December 2019 - February 2020

features

05

Breath of Fresh Air:

EDITOR: Keane Andre Escobar

Ghostings of No Supernatural Nature Art Cedrik ROMERO

Photo courtesy: Pinterest

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usaling Lacson has always been rumored for supernatural beings, a photo was once in a small feature in KMJS' Gabi ng Lagim episode even. To today's youth in romantic ventures however, ghosts have taken on another connotation and narrative — one that involves a sudden disappearance and a person left in ambiguity and self-questioning.

With ghosting stories being the bread and butter of a good ol' Freedom Wall post, the Lacson tales of the paranormal now seem far less terrifying, or heard of.

Psychology professor Wendy Walsh, in an interview with the New York Times, shared that there are levels to the ghosting phenomenon. Occasionally not answering a text or two, in a display of subtle disinterest would be "lightweight" ghosting. Meeting up several times, then exhibiting strong avoidance behavior would be categorized as “midweight.” And more intensely, engaging in a sexual relationship and deep romantic connection then cutting off all communication out of nowhere, is "heavyweight" ghosting.

It is not a relatively new behavior—intentional avoidance may or may not be a valuable evolutionary trait—but upon coining the term “ghosting,” it is very much incorporated with the act of digital departure itself. The ubiquity of social media dating apps gave rise to the superficial nature of online love, and with it, the relative ease of falling out of love and choosing again from a wide selection of profiles. That very act of vanishing off someone's chatbox, ultimately leaves no chance for closure, resulting in the sabotage of self-worth and self-esteem on the other end.

As far as the intricacies of the human brain is concerned, a broken heart is the same as a broken arm. Rejection, as studied in an fMRI scanner, shows increased activity in the dorsal anterior cingulate and the anterior insula—two of the regions that show increased activity in physical pain as well. Social rejection, similar in biopsychological nature, can even be treated similarly like physical pain with acetaminophen (Tylenol) according to studies. Suffice to say, being on the receiving end of a ghosting situation can be damaging, psychologically, in varying degrees.

It's always gonna be a common narrative told over laughter, or tears maybe, among friends or the webspace. And in instances where, akin to silent treatment, the emotional damage is taking its toll. It pays well to remember that, their ghosting behavior tremendously says a lot about them more than you.

Parasite:

What is it about this film and its director?

Keane ESCOBAR

Photo courtesy: CJ Entertainment Distribution Company

D

irector Bong Joon Ho of Snowpiercer-fame brings to life another shocking tale of class disparity that has broken the ceiling for Asian representation in international film institutions. Titled “Parasite,” the film stars Kang Ho-Song, Choi Wooshik, Park So-dam, and Jang Hye-jin as they navigate the life as a family below the poverty line, invading the lives of the affluent Park family as they pose as individuals wealthier than they really are and accept jobs inside their household.

Chaos ensues as the film that starts as a funny montage of the Kim family pulling one scam after another (in order to let in the next family member to the Park household) descends into a nightmare for the two families by the middle of the second act.

The film’s centerpiece lies not in its nearly perfect visuals, nor in its gripping narrative that maintains a perfect tempo throughout the film, but rather in its sharp critique on the illusion of social mobility for the poor. The fact that the Kim family had to resort to hijinks at the cost of the Park family’s previous staff is telling, as the Parks are only really willing to let in anyone through a chain of recommendations started by Kim Ki-woo (Choi), who even has fake credentials himself. In Mrs. Park’s words, this was the “belt of trust” that luckily protects their household, which can be construed as an allegory for class

solidarity among the rich.

The film also heavily capitalized on taking every opportunity to juxtapose the rich Parks and the poor Kims. From the cinematography that always drew an invisible yet heavily present boundary between the two families, even up to the narrative which escalated during the infamous rain scene, where the tone-deaf Mrs. Park called the heavy deluge the previous night “a blessing,” the very same deluge that cost the Kims their home and personal belongings—all while Ki-taek, the Kim patriarch, was driving the car.

It is evident in Director Bong’s films that his strength mainly lies in seamlessly interweaving sharp social commentary into every aspect of his works, as every frame is a painting and a potential peg. Looking at his filmography, the film Snowpiercer (2013) has similar themes of illustrating class struggle, with each section of a train running in a post-apocalyptic Earth representing a certain bloc in the class hierarchy. Not only that, but he also has Okja (2017), a film centering on a genetically modified pig and the global food supply chain. With these blockbuster films and social commentary that never falls short at his arsenal, there is no doubt that this will not be the last we’ll see of Bong Joon-ho.

The hype behind adorable home Alaiza Elaine MANANSALA

B

uilding a lovely home with an affectionate partner and furry companions would probably take years in real life, but thanks to the simulation game Adorable Home—we can get all these, virtually, in just a few minutes. Its lack of complexity and relaxing interface design appealed to more than five million users all over the world, especially in the Philippines where the hashtag #AdorableHomePH even trended on Twitter on February 26, 2020. The storm of its popularity also hit our university, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, as most students were seen glued in their mobile phones—stroking cats in the University Activity Center, preparing bento boxes at the “Banana Boat” and cutting cat’s nails inside classrooms while waiting for the Professor to arrive. Due to its fame, a number of reasons surfaced as to what triggered the hype of the simulation game. Filipinos craving for intimacy and the desire to have a peaceful life are notable causes behind the game’s success.

According to the game developer, Hyperbeard, Adorable Home is a passive and relaxing experience. It lets users create a home and choose their own partner, even the name and gender can be picked by the player. The goal is to earn “love”, the monetary term used in the game, in order to buy more cats and decorate the home through purchasing furniture, appliances, and even a garden. The more you take care of your cats by feeding, stroking, nail-cutting and showering them, the more “love” you will be able to collect.

Preparing a delicious meal in a bento box is also the key to get more “love” from your in-game partner.

“Buti pa sa adorable home may jowa ako.” This tweet posted by user @shutthefahkupph gained thousands of likes and retweets as most Filipinos found it truly relatable.

It paints the picture of young adults yearning for a romantic partner in their lives, someone who is affectionate, consistent, and financially capable like the in-game partner in Adorable Home. As stated by some players, the game (somehow) made them feel how it’s like to be in a relationship, even virtually, and it’s as if they’re not single anymore.

Twitter user @iamnoodles also expressed his opinion behind its hit, that we all look for the calm in this chaotic world and Adorable Home did such a great job illustrating it. With the absence of complex game instructions and adrenaline-rushing sound effects, it provided relaxation among its players.

Not only did Adorable Home entertain millions of people, it also helped alleviate the stress of individuals—mostly students and employees who are slaves of the eight-tofive system. Moreover, it provided a home for those seeking for one, those longing for love and belongingness. In today’s generation where almost everything revolves around technology, it seems like even the feeling of intimacy is beginning to be felt through it. And for people who don’t have the luxury of time and money to afford a vacation, it’s a cheaper alternative to unwind. Just by grabbing your phone and feeding cats for a few minutes, the feeling of relaxation replaces the turmoil lurking in your mind. The game is a breath of fresh air, a break from the suffocating problems and challenges brought by life.

Photo courtesy: Hyperbeard Inc. LakeQueen

The Official Student Publication of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila Volume 40, Issue 3 • December 2019 - February 2020

literary

06

EDITOR: Anne Nicole Carig

Before Words Are Penned

Anne Nicole CARIG Thin and frail, white and plain, It holds the raw stories yet seen; Fortunate if published, But most of the time just crumpled.

Sometimes, too, when on block, Erased scribbles smear the clearness, Otherwise, just empty.

Thoughts echo in blaring silence; Phrases come in fragments And it fills the space of bareness.

But before words are penned, The paper is first void and blank.

Momentary Prowess Phoebe Stacey ALMARIO I tend to walk through alleys different from each other— Most I complete wholeheartedly, Some trap me halfway for a while, And few even let me begin.

I tend to walk through the alleys of life, Yearning for experiences to appease a poet's art; Couldn't care less if I witness the fragility of life, Couldn't care less if I commit a thousand mistakes.

Like a pencil, I am everything but permanent; My visions sharpen over time, I may be broken into fragments Yet I can always begin walking again.

ILLUSTRATION BY JUSTINE MOGOL

Meraki Patricia Gabrielle MARQUEZ

I need to write to be alive!

Wit and sensibility made lustrous and refined, Roving poet’s mind, full of agony and rhymes; To quench the thirst for dreams And to create a shrine of endless possibilities, each stroke then shall provide such opportunity.

Meticulously inking what is beloved or obsolete, Yearning to inspire, never mind the sneers;

Such fate shall be decreed to a task complete— On print, one’s soul shall be left in piece Unto a mighty weapon and a hand to hold, Learning to crown a new muse ardently sought.

The Official Student Publication of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila Volume 40, Issue 3 • December 2019 - February 2020

07

isyung isko

Kami lang'to

3… 2… 1... Maligayang bagong taon mga ka-paMintAsAn!!

I

sipin n’yo ‘yon mga isKalatS, nagsara ang isang dekada at papasok na tayo sa panibagong taon na magsisilbing pamantayan para sa sampung taon na darating. Pero, nagsuot ba kayo ng kulay blue? ‘Yun daw kasi ang lucky color of the year! Ganda lang akis, rumarampa sa

Bulaga sa Bagong Dekada

(2020 na mga vAkluHhh!)

HmM… Si mama ay gora lang sa paglagay ng mga bilog na prutas, mag ready ng bigas at mag hide-away ng mga barya sa mga sulok ng bintana. Naniniwala daw kasi si mader earth sa pamapaswerte. Bongga divuHh?! Sino nga ba naman ang hindi gusto mag gather ng mga lucky spirits para i-welcome ang 2020 ng puno ng swerte lalo na para sa acads, ‘di ba? Well, umepek sana ang mga ito dahil baka umawra ang 2020 at magdala ng pag-asa at pagsira ng beri beri light saka niya sasabihing, “Mga chaka, Ako lang ‘to!”.

asul habang kumakalap ng mga chika para sa tWentY twenty! ‘Kala n’yo ba may papalampasin ako na chika, mga bAdeT? Naku, ako lang ‘to!

Sana All #SpEeeD Isa ka ba sa mga naghahangad ng makulay na buhay kaya gusto mo ng ganap teH? Pagod ka na ba maging estudyanteng zombie ng Pamintasang mahal kaya gusto mong mabigyan ng araw para umawra? Award! Ikaw pa naman ay nasa institusyon kung saan nakipagpapaligsahan ang usad ng pagpoproseso ng mga dokumento sa PLDT, Smart, at Globe— sa larangan ng pagiging islowesTt. Sa ilang booking ng iba’t ibang mga kolehiyo para sa kani-kanilang mga paganap, ma-shookt ka kung agad itong ma-give bacCs agad ng kataas-taasang hukom. Sa pagpaplano pa lamang may problema na, paano pa pag aaprubahan na, mga ilang dekadang paghihintay ulit beshie? Asahang laging present si stress drilon kung walang pagbabago sa sistema dahil tila lahat ay nahuhuli na.

Bato bato sa langit, tamaan bawal mang-warla, relaks, Ako Lang ‘To! Nagmamahal, PLMayer.

Paminta(s) sa Pamintasan Bilang chikadora ng taon, may bago akong chika mga isKalaTs. Hehe. Mga siZs, medyo ‘di ko rin keri ang nasagap kong paminta today. Medyo nakakapuwing talaga at ang sakit sa ilong. Umaalingasaw talaga kaya kailangang isiwalat mga bes! Sinetch ba itey na mga bruha at bruhong nagpakasal, nagsama, pero ang totoo pala ay hanggang papel lang? Ipinakikita sa ibang tao na ganito ang image nila pero very not real pala? ‘Wag gano’n bes! So ayun na nga, sinech itey din na samahan sa Pamintasan na may mga nilalabag sa mga ruLezz, mula sa beri sagradong istyudent mAnual, pero accredited pa rin? SCARY. Sinech itey na patuloy pinalalampas ang pamintang ito at hinahalo pa rin sa loob ng Pamintasan? Hmm… UNFAIR! Malaya tuloy na nakakalipad ang paminta, marami pang pwedeng madapuan at mapuwing ha. Kapitan to the max mga bes!

Kapag kabilang ka, hayahay ang buhay dahil #SafeGuard ka, kahit saTrue lang ay nakabitaw ka na sa laylayan. SANA ALL (x999999). Pero, ekis ‘yung drama ang labanan. Bawal bait-baitan at memA-pamigay mga bes. Para sa inyo, walang lihim na naitatago nang matagal bes. Alagaan natin ang Pamintasan. Ilayo ang mga paminta!

Ang tao, sa Pamintasan, ngayon ay lumalaban! (x3). Akala mo siguro tatakbo na ako para sa isang pwesto ‘no? Naku siZz, ako lang ‘to!

Unang sinulid pa lamang ito sa buhol ng bagong dekada na magdadala sa walang direksyong gulo. Was naman din plano, was naman din pagpapahalaga sa buhay ng tao. Asa na lang tayo sa #Compassion at sUperPowErs pilifins.

Kung ‘di n’yo kami makilala dahil sa nakatakip na face mask sa ming mga peslak, at sa peslak ng lahat ng tao ngayon sa pilifins, isipin n’yo na lang na eVerytHing iS welL iN tHe cOuntRy aNd tHeRe’s nOtHinG tO bE eXtRa sCaRed aBouT tHat cOrnBiP tHinG. Chill ka lang dahil ako lang ‘to!

Kalasag 2.020 Pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanokoniosis. Haba divuHh?! Well, sa unang buwan pa lamang ng taon ay gamit na ang pinakamahabang salita sa diksyunaryong Ingles.

Sa kinasamaang palad, hindi nagpatalo ang bulkang taal sa paligsahan ng mga delubyo at kalamidad sa ibang bansa dahil mega buga ito ng mapaminsalang usok na magbibigay sayo ng dahilan para gumamit ng makabagong kalasag na mga peys mask at baka sakaling gamitin ang longest word. Mabuti na lamang ay madaming nag-volunteer at nag-donate, kabilang ang mga isKalats, orgs, at council sa pAmintAsan para makatulong sa mga nasalanta ng kalamidad. Nakaka-ganderrr ang matulungin ‘di ba? ‘Yung di lang pa-event, pa-piKchur, at pa-ganda? Sana all, sana ALLweyz. Sila lang ‘to!

Cornbip-19 Ang dami na agad ganap ng Enero, ‘di ba? Pero waititit, there’s more! May pAsaboG pa ang 2020. Kung itatanong ninyo ang bat soup sa kahit kanino, pare-pareho ang kanilang isasagot kung saan nila ito nakita. Kung itatanong n’yo rin kung ba’t nagsi-ubusan ang mga peysmask sa Bambang at ba’t nagmistulang binalutan ng sakit ang mundo dahil lahat ng alcohol ay naubos sa mga tindahan at lahat ng tao’y naka Kalasag version 2.020, isa lang ang sagot: ang Cornbip-19 pandemic. Gulat ka ba na may nanunutok sa’yo ng thermal scanner(taray!) at pa-libreng alcohol sa gate ng pHleGm imbes na pagalitan ka sa iyong #OOTD o kalawang sa buhok? Cornbip-19 din ang reason nun, siZ! Wala nga lang pa-freebie na peysmask para sa mga isKalats kaya dagsa sila sa mga bilihan pero oh well, maki super BambangWarZ na lang kayo. Concert venue ba kamo? Hindi siZs, Bambang lang ‘to!

sports The Official Student Publication of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila Volume 40, Issue 3 • December 2019 - February 2020

Nualla, Aranar danced their way to three golds Photo courtesy: inquirer.net

SEA GAMES 2019

PH dancesport takes centerstage, Nualla-Aranar pair plucks three golds Kent Marvin MOJICA

P

LM Alumna Ana Manalo Nualla and his partner Sean Mischa Aranar spearheaded the Filipino athletes’ bid for gold in the 30th Southeast Asian Games after topping three events in dancesport on December 1, 2019, earning the distinction as the country’s first triple gold winners.

Nualla, dazzling in a white translucent gown with a flared skirt and sleeves and her real-life partner Aranar aced the Standard Tango and Viennese Waltz, tallying 30.15, and 30.10, respectively with their free-flowing routines in the standard category at the Royce Hotel. The duo later added the standard five to their collection

and danced their way leading the Pinoy dancers in the one-day event where 14 golds are at stake in all.

Joining them in the goal haul were the duo of Mark Jayson Gayon and Mary Joy Renigen who seized the two other golds after winning the standard standard foxtrot and waltz, but settled for a silver medal finish in quickstep of the standard category, in which Vietnam won. The tandem of Stephanie Sabalo and Michael Angelo Marquez chipped in two golds, while Wilbert Aunzo and Pearl Marie Caneda bagged three gold medals, completing the medal tally of the dancesport team with 10 golds.

The 27-year old Nualla earned her college degree at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila year 2012, taking up Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. Since 2014, she has worked as a chemist at the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) before heading into their bid for a title in this year’s Southeast Asian Games. The PLM Alumna has been into dance-sport since 2008.

Dancesport president Becky Garcia felt that the country’s overwhelming performance in the 30th Southeast Asian Games should give the sport mainstream popularity. Garcia said in an interview that three major tournaments are lined up next year for the Dancesport Council of

Kobe Bryant: Leaving a Legacy

T

he sporting world was struck with shocking news last January 26 when a seemingly harmless helicopter trip along California ended in the tragic death of the basketball superstar and all others on board.

The aircraft crash and the subsequent deaths caught the world by surprise; not long after news went on air, an outpour of support, tributes, and remembrances went towards the relatives of the victims as the world of basketball was brought to a standstill to mourn the loss of the NBA’s “Black Mamba.”

The 5-time NBA champion, 2-time finals MVP and Olympic gold medalist was dubbed by many as the best in the game, with some comparing him to Michael Jordan in raw talent and skill. A tenacious player with a ruthless

attitude towards the game, he elevated the sport to another level. He is the Lakers’ all-time leading scorer in its entire history, and notably won multiple championships with Shaquille O’Neal, with the memorable 3-peat championship victories in 1999, 2000, and 2001 under the same team.

Kobe appeared as an inspiration to a lot of the sport’s upcoming talent across the world as athletes attribute a likeness to the mindset of one Kobe Bryant, aptly dubbed “Mamba Mentality”; a relentless pursuit to “be the better version of yourself,” with a drive to win. He helped usher in an era of the NBA to a new, international market with his heritage of being raised abroad, catalyzing the growth of the league into what it is now. He was well spoken, well-traveled and was ever present in the digitalization of the NBA’s

the Philippines. The ranking competitions will be held in March, midyear championships in July, and national finals in October at Philsports Arena, which is a big-level up for the event that for many years was held at Valle Verde Country Club.

Nevertheless, Nualla and Aranar will test their mettle first in the 2019 Giai Vo Dich KVTT T&T Dancesport Cup Invitational Open against Asia’s best on December 22 in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam.

Denzel CASTILLO

content to be accessed across the world. The Black Mamba was not just fluid in court, he was fluent off it as well.

However, Kobe was not without faults.

Throughout his career he faced controversy, most notably being arrested under a sexual assault charge in 2003. A 19-year old hotel employee accused Kobe of rape while he was staying in a hotel awaiting a medical procedure. Fallout among sponsors soon ensued, and his reputation took a hit. In 2004, the charges were dropped when the accuser decided to no longer testify.

Kobe admitted his failings and issued an apology to her and to the public, and a private settlement among the two parties was soon agreed upon.

His legend and fame took a dip, but Kobe redeemed himself in the eyes of his fans and

spectators. The multinational shoe corporation, Nike, took back to advertising Kobe after his image recovered in two years. His performance in games at the following season was off to a rough start as well, but recovered in plays a season after, even reconciling with Shaquille O’Neal in 2006.

Soon enough, the Black Mamba took his thunder back into the game. Bryant’s last championship came in the 2009-2010 season, defeating the Boston Celtics to clinch the title.

In the hearts of basketball fans and Lakers’ fanatics, there can only be one Black Mamba— one Kobe Bryant—a name synonymous with greatness. Bryant will forever be remembered as one of the greatest players to have ever graced the sport of basketball.