The Bellows - Volume LVI, Issue 1

the

BELLOWS

opinion

Is the music industry dead?

by Austin Castañeda on Page 9

feature

the official student publication of Aquinas School

B E L L O W I N G the T R U T H to the ends of the E A R T H AUGUST 2020 - DECEMBER 2020

Examining the new generation

by Janzen Jacinto on Page 4

VOL. LVI, NO. 1

Class of 2020 marches behind screen

by Daniel Ramos Students witnessed the first-ever virtual rites due to the ongoing threat of the pandemic.

Student activity continues to thrive.

ScioMagnus club gathers for a group picture.

Photo Credit: ScioMagnus Club

AS community keeps ablaze in new normal

by Daniel Ramos

The school grapples with “new normal” as another academic year continues and the threats of the pandemic persist.

Major school events now rely on information and communication technologies like learning management systems and social media to keep the blaze going.

SSC elections go virtual amid pandemic

by Austin Castañeda Aquinians voted for the next student leaders via an online ballot system through their Schoology accounts on Sept. 8.

NEWS

SciMath Week gears students towards new normal

Synchronous and asynchronous classes are held in the Schoology app. Student activity still thrives in the same platforms as respective clubs and organizations opened their registrations in late August.

On the same day, students elected their council leaders through Google Forms, an online polling app and an automated ballot system.

Partylist Talino At Lakas ng Aquinian (TALA) went head to head with the Truthful, Attentive, Magnanimous Aquinians (TAMA) in the Miting de Avance four days earlier.

Like the monumental elections, the Miting went virtual as the SSC FB page livestreamed the event.

FEATURE

Former nat’l photojourn winner ventures in the world of business and music

by Gian Marquez

by Jeth del Rosario

It’s a battle of readiness, knowledge and resourcefulness amid the pandemic.

Success is in the blood of Aquinian. Read how Gab conquers his passion and studies.

See page 2 for full story.

See page 4 for full story.

The Allied Sciences department revived the Science and Math week through the digital platform mid-September. Winners were announced in the Aquinas School official Facebook page a week later.

The school also uses digital media to restore any vestige of normalcy. Pre-recorded ceremonies were

livestreamed every Monday before online class starts.

The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary celebration was also streamed live in the school Facebook page. The community celebrated the Living Rosary, a well-honored tradition, through a live video tribute.

Continue on page 2

Outgoing SSC president Jethro Lagmay and COMELEC chairman Gian Marquez hosted the meeting.

“A sudden [turn] of events halted your precious anticipation of wearing proudly your locally-woven barong and sablay,” directress/principal Sr. Rosalinda Calong said to the graduates.

Despite the pandemic, the school continued in recognizing the efforts of its students by premiering video tributes in the official Facebook page.

“This new normal will not hinder Aquinas School… from celebrating and recognizing our Aquinian pupils’ successes,” host Ms. Henedina Barotea said in the pre-school moving up ceremony.

Continue on page 2

Class on Lockdown on Page 4

by Sean Giron

The Virtual Miting de Avance started with an introduction and prayer by Austin Castañeda.

Next on your binge list: The Umbrella Academy

by Kenji Reyes

Continue on page 2

LITERARY

SCIENCE

New Normal

Earth is healing?

New normal takes in the form of new epiphanies, new feelings and new selves.

The pandemic may be the environmental reset we needed. Or is it?

See page 11 for full story.

See page 12 for full story.

by Gian Marquez

The outbreak prematurely stopped the academic year, cancelling school events such as the graduation and recognition.

by Sean Giron

on Page 7

SPORTS

LA Lakers win the historic 2020 NBA Championship

by Jeth del Rosario

It’s one of the most memorable seasons of the LA Lakers.

See page 13 for full story.

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NEWS

SciMath Week gears students towards new normal

BELLOWS BITS

by Gian Marquez

by Gian Marquez This week-long celebration of science and mathematics offered Aquinians various pandemic-related activities which showcased their readiness, knowledge and resourcefulness amid the new normal.

Grades four to six shared their precautions during the pandemic in Safety Step: Do’s and Don’ts during the Pandemic.

Meanwhile, the high school department also showcased their creativity and ingenious hands in the Face Value: Mask Design Competition.

Ninth to twelfth graders showed off their research and graphic design skills in the Fact or Fiction: COVID-19 Infographics contest.

Class 2020...

continued from page 1 Likewise, Grade 10 awardee Enrico Estrella welcomed the viewers in the virtual recognition, “The work we have done over the past year will not be overshadowed by this pandemic.”

“This is not the farewell any of us ever imagined,” senior high

...ablaze

continued from page 1 Changes in Learning Aside from the shifts in platforms, the admin also adjusted teaching strategies to fit the current learning conditions.

Contact hours were drastically reduced. Teachers open their Saturdays for consultation to

It’s a battle of the wits The senior kinder and grade school department tested their knowledg on Science and Technology in the Quizizz Challenge. The high school department also went head-to-head in the Kahoot!

Cup.

Illustration by Gian Marquez

Call for Peace and Unity highlight UN Week Celebration

Senior kinder to third graders also unleashed their inner scientists in the Dress Up as a Scientist contest.

by Gian Marquez

Winners were announced and posted last Oct 10 in the school’s Facebook page.

Twelfth grader Jan Vince Sadang designed commemorative badges given to the winners through their Schoology accounts.

Last 14 Nov, the school’s Humanities Department opened this year’s virtual United Nations Week celebration that aimed to establish peace and unity amid the many issues happening in the world.

The celebration featured activities that showcased Aquinian talents, creativity and advocacy.

valedictorian Jason Sigales remarked on the groundbreaking event. “We dreamed to march on the gym’s linoleum floor… but this is far better than nothing.”

Grade school valedictorian Jett Matthew Reyes thanked the parents of the graduates “as they selflessly and sacrificially helped [them] finish school” despite the pandemic taking toll on livelihoods. compensate for the reduced contact hours.

The school also created an innovative paradigm for learning, the Transformative Online and Offline Learning for the Blazing OX or TOOLBOX. In the system, students may opt to learn independently or through online instruction.

The new system also introduced the students to Flexible Learning Tasks, activities that student accomplish at their own pace.

In TOOLBOX, lessons are divided into units of “toolboxes”.

Each toolbox contains a series of routines. These routine tasks include a motivational activity (Let’s Get Ready), a pretest (Your Journey Begins),

the discussion (Time to Explore), a flexible learning task (More Adventures) and a posttest (Win a Badge).

The school held orientations to inform the community about the changes in policies. Teachers also implemented extensive teaching demonstrations weeks before the school year started.

The poster and slogan making contest were opened for grades 1 to 3. Grades 4 to 8 dressed up and acted some famous Filipino heroes in the Hero of Peace challenge. The Tiktok Challenge for Peace and Justice was opened for grade 9 to 12 where it showcased different advocacies and steps in attaining world peace.

The winners of the weeklong activity are posted in the school’s Facebook page.

SSC...

continued from page 1 Mr. Christian Jeff Cariaga, vice principal for academics, welcomed the community through his opening remarks.

The mechanics of the meeting was introduced by Mr. Raymond Elisterio the adviser of the Supreme Student Council.

The Miting de Avance is divided into three segments; the introduction of candidates, the presentation of platforms, and the question and answer portion.

The Virtual Meeting ended with closing remarks by Mrs. Catharine Ramos OP and a few reminders on the new online voting system.

Following was the official turn over for new positions by Jethro Lagmay, the then-outgoing SSC president.

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NEWS

AS community spearheads COVID-19, calamity relief drives

by Sean Giron & Gian Marquez The recent calamities and the ongoing pandemic brought the Aquinian community together again as donation drives and efforts were opened to give assistance to those in need.

Last April, a fund-raising campaign to help the frontliners battling the COVID-19 pandemic was launched by the school’s alumni association.

Mr. Jericho Aguila of Batch 1995 allocated a portion of the fund for the annual homecoming to serve as initial aid for the drive. Batches 1969, 1992, 1989 and 1996 also took part in the project. Batch 1984 Mr. Christopher Conwi also extended his assistance as he distributed ready-to-eat food packs in various medical institutions in Metro Manila.

The alumni-led drive gathered more than 60 aerosol boxes and 20 swab test boxes which was released to hospitals such as the FEU-Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation, St. Martin de Porres Charity Hospital, Mandaluyong Medical Center, Quirino Memorial Medical Center and Cavite Medical Center.

Six months later and the community opened its donation drive once more after super typhoon Rolly and Ulysses barreled down Luzon and displaced thousands of Filipinos.

The Aquinas School Emergency Relief Operations (Project ASERO) was launched last 04 Nov to collect food, non-food and monetary benefactions

inside and outside of the institution.

The donations that amounted to almost P30,000 in cash excluding more than 50 sacks of rice from the Aquinian-Dominican family and other in kind donations were distributed to the different parishes in Cagayan, Bicol, Marikina and Rizal.

These calls for donations are not the first as the school also headed donation drives during numerous calamities such as the Taal Volcano eruption in January, and the Bohol Earthquake and Super Typhoon Haiyan onslaught in 2013.

IN MEMORIAM

Heaven gained one more

by Gian Marquez Selfless Angel The 6th of January marked one of the saddest moments in the school’s history as the beloved Mrs. Catharine Ramos, OP passed away after battling with cancer that started December of 2020.

Aquinians live truth and compassion through their donations.

The alumni-led drive gathered more than 60 aerosol boxes and 20 swab test boxes which was released to hospitals Photo by Sir Reginald Calina

‘Paskong Aquinian’ reassures certainty despite uncertainty by Daniel Ramos Despite uncertain times, the AS community remained certain of the Christmas spirit.

In late December, the school celebrated its annual Christmas program through a video premiere in Facebook.

The event is held virtually as the public health threat removed the possibility of public gatherings. Nonetheless, the school remained hopeful this season.

“Marahil may agam agam kung paano ipagdiriwang ang kapaskuhan, maaari pa ring natin ipagdiwang [ito]... sa pagkakaroon ng tiwala at pagasa na ilulusot tayo ng Poong May Kapal sa pandemyang ito,” ASPC president Mrs. Mary Lou Quintio said in her video message.

SSC president Anthony Jeth del Rosario shared the positive outlook saying, “we still have a long way ahead of us.” He also expressed gratitude as “we have so much to be thankful for”.

celebration,” VP for Academics, Mr. Christian Jeff Cariaga said.

Meanwhile, the school stood firm in their ideals of compassion in this season. Campus Ministry and Outreach Head, Mrs. Catherine M. Ramos recalled the spirit of giving.

Rev. Fr. Matthias Nga Reh centered our focus to Christ Emmanuel who “is journeying with us in the midst of our trials.”

“Ang diwa ng pasko ay... ang pagbibigay ng mensahe ni Kristo... na kahit dumaan ang paghihirap sa pandemyang ito, ang Aquinas School ay nakatayo pa rin at buong pusong tumutulong ayon sa kanilang kakayahan.”

“Serving other people... is the true essence of this Christmas

Mr. Cariaga also took pride of the generosity poured to the recent donation drive.

Interspersed throughout the video tribute are greetings and performances from the community.

Each class celebrated their parties in their respective homeroom conferences after the program.

The sudden news reached not only the Aquinian community but also others whom the dedicated educator, loving mother and ardent follower of God helped throughout her life. Media posts sharing their fondest memories with her were quickly published online—a living proof that she touched, changed and helped a lot of people with her heartwarming words and unwavering determination.

Known for her unfaltering desire to help and strong-willed personality that materializes to her famous life philosophy: lakas ng loob, tibay ng dibdib at kapal ng mukha, Mrs. Catharine also became one of the foundations of the 56-year-old institution, propelling the whole Aquinian community to greater heights throughout her stint as the campus, outreach and student activity head.

Various memoriam presented by people close to her revealed multiple sides of the so called ‘The Dragon’—a

reference to her birthdate coinciding with the lunar year of the dragon. She is a loyal, supportive and caring companion who even to her early days, displayed an unbending personality that uplifted anyone who came in proximity to her. A lot of people also learned from her life-changing sermons that transpired in her iconic office where friendships formed, tears fell and celebrations happened throughout her service to the school.

Mrs. Catharine might have bidden us her farewell but, her passing only symbolizes the accomplishment of her mission given by Him. It is the culmination of her life-long service towards her brothers and sisters and the reward to her resolute faith and love to the Lord, our God. Rest easy on the wings of eternity, Mrs. Cathy. The Aquinian community will continue to bellow the truth to the ends of the Earth for you.

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FEATURE

Illustration by Daniel Ramos III

BEHIND THE SCREEN

CLASS ON LOCKDOWN

by Sean Giron

Currently, we are in a year that has locked us in our homes due to the coronavirus pandemic, forcing us to take an abrupt stop from work and school. This lockdown has posed many challenges including students not able to enroll and families becoming financially challenged. But now we have found a solution for workers and students such as the reopening of businesses and restaurants with requirements and the introduction of online classes.

In school, adjusting to the new environment posed a challenge to teachers and students, using different apps and tools to help them. Now, one may ask how schools were able to help their school community to adapt?

Sir Reginald Calina sheds light on the matter.

The admin prioritizes making sure that teachers are well adapted to the new environment so that they may help the students whenever they encounter problems.

“Since online class is new to our system of education in Aquinas,” Sir Reginald Calina said, “I have to make sure that my teachers are well equipped with all the things they need to know about online teaching.”

Such measures include “familiarizing with the learning management system, [...]

Schoology, knowing the advantages and disadvantages of online class, and finding possible solutions to problems that might be encountered like troubleshooting the internet connection.”

At the same time, they make sure that the class is still interactive and fun so that student won’t get bored and will still be encouraged to learn more.

“While for the students, I have

to make sure that the class will be interactive”.

However, online classes aren’t easy. The two main problems classes faced were the possibility that students and teacher may experience slow internet connection and the familiarization with Schoology.

The possibility of slow internet is inevitable. A good internet connection is sometimes hard to come by especially in our country but the admin has tried their best to help and cooperate by offering the teachers to go to the campus and use their wi-fi.

Teachers also try to be patient with the students whenever they disconnect.

Familiarization with Schoology is a problem as well due to the fact that we have been so used to face-to-face classes.

If you would go to school, you would always know what to expect, to be in a classroom -

sometimes having an activity outside the classroom, with a teacher moderating you, and you using your pen, paper, notebook, or book.

Now, it is a whole different experience. You are in your house, in a call with your classmates and teachers, using an app to help you in your studies. It is hard to go through the school year without experiencing any problems or hardships. Again the admin has done their best to help their teachers and students, by giving them a full conference to familiarize their students to the platform.

Lastly, what has the school done to continue improving its program? Sir Reginald Calina says “Yes, these are based on the feedback of parents on how the school handles online classes. There are always room for improvement.”

It is commendable on the ded-

ication and motivation of the school to keep on striving for a comfortable learning environment for the students, and a comfortable teaching environment for the teachers.

The admin will keep on pursuing on better ways to teach their students until they find the perfect strategy to feed their students information while also not giving the students a hard time.

In conclusion, the admin has always put the safety and comfort of their teachers and students in the forefront. They have never forgotten to consider how much the teachers and students have to adjust to the new environment.

Remember to stay safe and stay home, together we can persevere and hopefully see each other again at school.

Examining the new generation

by Janzen Jacinto Pop culture in the present is very much different than we expected. These days, the youth is very smart and creative. The new Generation Z or “Gen-Z” is the generation of people who grew up with social media along with technology.

“Despite younger generations being called lazy by older generations, GenZers consider themselves the hardest-working,” stated by Dan Schawbel, a researcher on the subject.

Pop-culture or popular culture usually aims younger people. Examples of pop are entertainment, sports, news, politics, fashion, technology and slang words. Countless trends and pop are taking over social media platforms.

Big opportunities are very much open to grab for music industries, movie industries and etc. Many new and old “vloggers/ bloggers”, Influencers and creators from Social media platform such as “YouTube” and “Facebook” are getting large comebacks in their careers’.

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5

FEATURE

Former nat’l photojourn winner now ventures in the world of business and arts by Jeth del Rosario

“I don’t want to give up on my dreams now, especially when the people around me are pushing me and supporting me. Their eagerness to avail our products reassures us that our sacrifices and troubles won’t go to waste.”

Success has always been in the blood of Aquinians.

The school has produced a lot of notable names in various fields as many of our homegrown talents have decided to explore and hone their crafts.

One being Gabriel Martin, a 10th grader who shares ownership of a local clothing brand and who, in his free time, is also a recording artist.

A Passion for Music Gab said that from a young age, music has always been a part of his life.

“

Owning Restricted

“I started memorizing songs from a young age. Then I started writing my own songs when I was thirteen. Before releasing my songs now, I had already written a lot more.”

I don’t want to give up on my dreams now, especially when the people around me are pushing me and supporting me.

Gabriel or Gab, as his friends would call him, has always had a passion for digital arts; however, he never intended to create a brand of his own.

He simply wanted to practice designing shirts so that, in the near future, he would be able to help his friends who are also in the local clothing scene.

But as opportunity knocked at his door in the form of two other Aquinian alumni, Carl Del Rosario and Toby Tan, Gab knew that he couldn’t pass up on the offer. That was the birth of their brand—Restricted.

He also said that he felt that his voice and confidence wasn’t enough but as time passed by he gained the courage to pursue a career in music as well with the help of his idols, family and friends who have always supported him in what he wanted to do.

Gab shows determination and passion in his works.

Balancing Music, Clothes, and Studies

Handling a business has never been easy especially during the pandemic. In an interview with Gab about Restricted and the struggles of running a business he said, “One of our main challenges is the process of making our products; the designs are ready but we started having trouble finding a place to print our shirts.”

Yet these troubles aren’t enough to stop Gab from pursuing his dreams. “We know to ourselves that this pandemic isn’t enough of a reason for us to stop. Hindrances and setbacks are part of the process of handling a business.”

Gab is about to finish junior high and he is fully aware of that. “It really isn’t easy to balance studies and work but knowing your priorities will help you cope up when you are in this situation.

Gab continues to make art.

Follow his business (left) and his music (right) by scanning the QR codes.

Photo Source: Gabriel Martin Facebook Page.

Torchbearers in the post-truth world Dare to write today or forever hold your piece?

by Gian Marquez

The press has already been at the high grounds for a very long time, watching the evolution of society. It has been the regulator of democracy and the vessel of a people-driven nation in which the truth serves as the blood that flows within them. The Philippines is of a similar picture as journalists helped shape the history of our country with their verities and their resolution to fight for it.

It has been a long time since journalism became the encore of national interests. It

has been years since the media was challenged by darkening skies to let the light shine on its people once again but here we are, exactly in that situation. Now more than ever is the time to ponder questions on the role of journalists and how significant their voices are.

What characteristics must a constituent of the fourth estate possess? How should a journalist respond to the post-truth world? What does it take to be a journalist of the people and for the people? Most impor-

tantly, what does it take to be the next torchbearer of truth?

story of each character — both good and bad.

These were given answers in the webinar of The Bellows entitled OxTalks: Student Journalism in the Post-Truth World where two accomplished journalists of today partook their sentiments and pointers about the truth-neglecting world we are in.

The same goes for journalists and their articles. One must never publish or cover a story that only leans on the side of the good. Every side must be heard in order to ensure balance and just journalism.

Through this, the story widens for the readers to understand and create their stance, starting an intuitive discourse through an article that tickled their perspectives.

Journalism as a catalyst for insightful discourse

Every story has multiple sides. To further induce a productive It is through these sides that discussion between the massthe narrative becomes more es, journalists must also tell story interesting to the readers.

This onthe Continue page 5 in a fair manner, ensuring that every voice — big gives a broader view of the

“I prioritize first my studies and then I create music and designs during my free time so that I won’t forget my responsibilities and at the same time I’m doing what I love. I’m in the 10th grade, I have to study hard for me to be able to go up in Senior High and continue my studies.”

or small — is heard. More so, a press who puts his feet on others’ shoes will not fail in captivating and stimulating the minds of the people.

As writers of the stories of our world, it is important to bear in mind that every journalist works not for the interest of those in power but of those beneath it. It is our duty to report stories that reflect and inform every person of the society of the nows around them while influencing to change their lives in the biggest way possible. However, this can only be achieved if self-interests and subjective remarks will be replaced by objectivity and facts.

Continue on page 6

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FEATURE

Illustration by Daniel Ramos III

Torchbearers... continued from page 5

Journalism will only be a catalyst for discourse if the balance between the two worlds is maintained.

Truth is the cornerstone of journalistic works Guided by the truth and nothing but the truth, a journalist’s work is not merely for printing purposes. Every article is equipped with the power to change one’s understanding of the happenings around. Therefore, fallacies have no room in journalism.

CYBERAPOSTLESHIP

Programmer Saint-to-be Detects God’s Signal amid Modern Noise It’s easy to think that the lives of holy saints are far removed from the modern lifestyle.

After all, the capitalist society seems incompatible with charity but congruent to greed. The ordinary exposure to entertainment seems predisposed to addiction and overconsumption, not temperance. The climate of social media rewards the prideful, not the humble.

This newly-beatified millennial proved them wrong.

Carlo Acutis was a millennial in every sense of the word.

At age 9, he was an avid gamer who grew up with the PlayStation 2. He was also fond of the Pokemon franchise.

Dubbed as a computer whiz, he learned how to code and edit videos at a time when such skills were reserved for those with undergraduate degrees.

He posted wacky videos of himself with his dog way before YouTubers and TikTokers did today.

He was the quintessential youth. But he didn’t let the noise of the modern world hinder God’s signal.

Finding the Signal Amid the Noise As a Catholic, he had always been wary of this modern noise. He would limit his time playing video games and spent the rest socializing with his friends. Carlo also believed that the internet was “a place to use with responsibility, without becoming enslaved.”

And so he did.

He used his programming skills to create websites that illuminate netizens of the

by Daniel Ramos III

Road to sainthood

eucharist. Pope Francis in one of his apostolic exhortations commended Carlo for “[using] the new communications technology to transmit the Gospel.”

From his cyber apostleship to his constant volunteerism, his life had been considered by Pope Francis as possessing heroic virtues.

To the Pope, he didn’t fall into the trap of “consumerism and distraction”, a trap that young people run into quite often. Instead, he used this bleak platform to communicate “values and beauty”.

Because of these virtues, the Church deemed him venerable in July 2018.

Through his deeds, he became a shining beacon to those around him. He’d incite his mom to go to church regularly when she previously did not. He was a strong devotee for the Blessed Virgin Mary and regularly prayed to her.

He used his savings to bring the unfortunate in his area.

Displaying noble efforts of charity, he brought sleeping bags, food and drinks to them.

He frequently volunteered to feed those disadvantaged.

Indeed, he would have had a fruitful life ahead of him. However, at the age of 15, he died of leukemia in 2006. But his influence didn’t waver after his death.

“

Two years later, it is believed that Carlo saved a Brazilian boy from a rare pancreatic disease. In early 2020, Pope Francis confirmed that Carlo indeed cured his disease.

This miracle caused the Church to beatify Carlo in Oct. 10.

Being venerated is the last step before one can be considered a saint. To be a saint, the Church should verify another miracle caused by him.

At the meantime, his beatification should elicit some introspection among the youth.

Indeed, the digital world can “expose [us] to the risk of self-absorption, isolation and empty pleasure”.

But Carlo Acutis reminds us how we, despite the rising complexities of the internet and social media, can wade through the noise and instill to mind what matters the most.

Carlo Acutis reminds us how we... can wade through the noise And at the and instill to mind what God’s signal. matters the most.

end,

find

The loyalty of the press should only be given to veracity. They must harness this to capture the voices of the people and amplify them through their writings to create a piece that delivers the real state of the nation. Simply put, journalism is writing for the truth that the populace must know. This is the same reason why individuals bearing the responsibility of this profession are being pinned down by those who reject or hide the truth from the people.

Truth is essential for a democratic country to fully function. The Philippines is the perfect example of this where the press is the symbolism of free speech; where the fourth estate gives determination for others to bellow the truth as well.

Journalism is a sanctuary for enlightenment A journalist is like a doctor but of words. These words can either save or put the whole nation in jeopardy.

The press is given the gift to uphold the truth through works that must enlighten

the population and serve as their safe haven in making sound decisions and erasing skepticism caused by inauthenticity.

The power and capabilities of the free press are something immeasurable especially if they unite for the purpose of truth. It can be a light shining on nothing and is enough to illumine even the darkest of days.

Take the happenings at present as an example. The world is currently plunged in what seems to be an endless pit of darkness. As we stay under the roofs of our houses to remain safe amidst the global pandemic, the press is the one who serves as our eye in everything that is happening on the streets and most importantly, in the government.

Besides, it has always been their duty to keep authorities in check — to tell if their duties are being performed or not — and report back to the people especially in these critical times.

As the fourth estate defends their voices against the oppressors, it is not only their freedom that they are defending; it is the interest and sanctuary of the people who they work for that they are defending.

Indeed, the world is currently at its lowest point for not only natural anomalies plague the nations of this planet but human forces as well. It has been decades since the former protectors of the truth faced the same fate we are facing. Now, the torch of truth has been passed on to this generation’s journalists for them to kindle the flame of truth that will pave way for everyone to surpass this enormous hurdle.

The question is, are you ready to bear the torch?

Photo by Linus Sandvide on Unsplash

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FEATURE

Next on your binge list: The Umbrella Academy a non-spoiler review The Umbrella Academy has it all: action, suspense, comedy and twists! The show has two complete seasons, ten episodes each. It aired on Netflix back in February 2019. It is based on the comic book series of the same name written

by Gerard Way. The series narrates seven infants who were born on the same day and same time by women who showed no signs of pregnancy. Seven of these

unusual children were adopted by a billionaire named Sir Reginald Hargreeves. The adoptive father trained them because these children are special. Each has a unique ability and becomes a member of the team called the “Umbrella Academy”, a group of heroes meant to save the world.

The characters have special chemistry with each other and the show builds up with a good pace in each episode. The

by Kenji Reyes first episode got me hooked already and went to binge the whole show. I enjoyed every little detail about the show especially parts where they talk about time travel (yep, it has time travel in it).

The team eventually became a family and was set on one goal and a goal for themselves.

Many parts were wholesome and complete full of happiness

but there are more parts that have a gray sky filled with loss of hope and sadness. The bitter parts would make up for the sweeter parts.

In the second season, it talked about a lot of subjects that can be found in our day to day life; it’s not hard to find out what these themes are since it signifies real life. I recommend the show to audiences 14+ because it shows violence and gore.

Overall, this thrilling show would whisper to you to watch another episode; you’ll end up finishing it in a day. You would contemplate about the season finales too.

The show has officially announced that they are having a new season that is in the works and will be released on late 2021. In the meantime, you can catch up on those episodes and remember, don’t forget the popcorn.

The Umbrella Academy is a thrilling series following a group of misfit heroes.

Photo Source: The Nerd Daily

ENTERTAIN ME

Swift channels the cottagecore aesthetic in new “indie records much cooler than mine”.

Photo Source: New York Post

Country-darling-turned-popstar Taylor Swift tries indie

by Daniel Ramos III

It is a productive year for Taylor Swift as she released her two new albums—folklore and evermore—within the span of four months. Only this time, she wasn’t trying to break out pop hits or sing diaristic accounts through country tracks.

This breakup from usual expectations allowed her to delve deep into entrancing narratives of young love, self-improvement, escapism and relationship pangs while experimenting with new sounds and genres.

Instead, she went full-on storyteller mode with the help of Aaron Dessner (from indie rock band The National) and longtime collaborator Jack Antonoff to spice up her narratives.

Sonically cohesive, the tracks flow easily to each other yet each has its own charm and thus, the records do not get stale.

While 2020 shattered expectations of normality, this venture to the atypical doesn’t seem to be all gloomy for Swift. She commented that the pandemic has released her from the expected album rollouts, concert reparations and battle for chart placement.

Departing oh so slightly from her pop production, she along with the producers also experimented with weird time signatures (Tolerate It, Closure and Peace) and tempo changes (Evermore).

They also incorporated unusual sound palettes like in Closure where it starts with ma-

chine-like cacophony. While these elements are not new in music history, it is unusual for a pop star to use such elements.

The production may be straying from her usual discography but her songwriting and lyricism remain the same, even surpass her past works. She explored narratives from her own life (Epiphany, Marjorie) while creating completely fictional worlds (August, Betty, Cardigan). Some songs lie somewhere in between fictional and autobiographical (The Last Great American Dynasty, My Tears Ricochet).

Her knack for effortlessly weaving narratives shines through as well. The Last Great American Dynasty likens her life with the controversial Americana sweetheart

Rebekah Harkness through a masterful perspective change in the bridge.

Epiphany threads the common experiences between World War II soldiers and the present-day frontliners who had death staring at their faces daily.

Are we out of the “Folkorian woods” yet? We may not know for now but the sister albums indeed are a fresh and exciting addition to her repertoire.

She cemented her legacy as an excellent songwriter, unafraid of stepping out of her comfort zone while at the same time honoring her roots.

Long story short, she’ll survive for a long time.

...new generation continued from page 4

The application “Tik Tok” made by Zhang Yiming is one of the most used and successful media platforms this year. Filipino TikTokers such as @nianaguerreo and @yanyandejesus gained millions of followers.

Meanwhile in politics, since it is the 2020 US Presidential elections “Political Jokes” are now trending again. Mostly About both these two candidates Joe Biden and Donald Trump.

Some of this humor can be very offensive to the country and to anyone.

This year had been very active on protests. Specifically, the black lives matter movement. This movement can really change the world today and find the justice for those who are needing of it.

Pop today is just new and diverse.

8

E D I T O R I A L

Editorial Cartoon by Jan Vince Sadang

EYE S WIDE OPEN A year into the coronavirus-induced pandemic and the Philippines has been biting more than what it can chew. Every passing month tested the Filipinos’ strength, determination and even their rights.

The development of La Niña that resulted in the consecutive tropical cyclone devastation in the country also revealed a nation with no leader present in front of the anxious and terrified Filipinos.

It all started when the pandemic infiltrated the country last January and quickly escalated from what it is right now.

This was followed by the shutting down of the largest media network amid a global crisis where information is needed by the populace the most. The ratification of the Anti-Terror Law also sparked the democratic spirit of every Filipino and revealed the precedence of the administration as the law was passed quickly from the lower to the upper house within three days.

Finally, the multiple statements degrading and invalidating the efforts of every Filipino scientists and medical professionals during the pandemic also unraveled the ignorance and pride of the administration.

Not to mention the resulting massive red tagging and illegal arrest of the citizens who expressed dissent while clearly followed protocols during their rallies compared to the officials freely traveling around the country.

With the spontaneous happenings going around, one thing can be said: Everyone is tired.

The whole country is two months away from marking one year after the pandemic started infecting hundreds and thousands of Filipinos. It is also a month left before this dreaded year ends as every Filipino is barely holding on the needle’s

end and the validity of our well-known resiliency starts to be questioned.

With that in mind, the next presidential and national elections is beyond the horizon. The country will be having 4 million more voters— now, more than ever do we have more people to change the country’s future.

Never forget the last nine months of complete and utter disaster wherein we were able to witness the mess that is those who are governing.

Their bent priorities, evident mishandling and incompetency during the lowest times of our country are more than enough to open our eyes to the reality that we have been deceived and we are now on our own.

For now, while waiting for the day that will change the course of our country’s future, let us continue to fight, be vigilant and keep our eyes wide open.

9

OPINION

This characteristic is perfect for every Filipino considering that the country is situated in a location where natural disasters and humanitarian calamities are common in an annual, if not monthly basis. Naturally-occurring tragedies such as typhoons, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions are typical occurrences that visits the country frequently.

In the past decade, countless historic and devastating onslaughts hit the country, showing the Filipinos’ well-known “resilience” to everyone.

Resiliency? I think not.

Filipinos are known to have an immovable determination and strength that let them surpassed even the darkest times in their life. Not to mention the idea of Bayanihan that reflects their oneness in crucial moments; that no one will be left behind and everyone will rise as one.

In the year 2012, typhoon Pablo devastated the island of Mindanao. The tropical cyclone was tagged as the most powerful tropical cyclone to ever impact Southern Philippines as it left more than 1,000 people dead.

2013 was no stranger to everyone. A series of disasters tested the country’s will to move forward and recover, starting off with the massive destruction caused by one of the most powerful tropical cyclone ever recorded—typhoon Yolanda. The super typhoon caused 6,000 casualties and tested not only the country’s bayani-

han spirit, but also their faith. A magnitude 7.2 quake also jolted Bohol that killed 100 people and destroyed countless historic and significant infrastructures.

Seven years later and all hell has broken loose as the country was in another test of resilience.

The unprecedented eruption of the Taal Volcano in January destroyed billions of agricultural lands in the surrounding provinces. This was followed by the COVID-19 pandemic that halted the country in every level. However, it did not stop there as the nation braced for a series of typhoons in the form of Quinta, Rolly and Ulysses which heavily devastated Luzon.

In all of these catastrophes, one common notion can be found: Regardless of the extent of these disasters, Filipinos are the most resilient people in the world therefore, recovering from these happenings is not a problem.

It is due to this mentality that billions of infrastructures and hundreds and thousands of lives are lost every year and still believe that the nation is resilient enough to recover from all of this. The act of finding those accountable for these losses has been shrouded due to the word being romanticized. Their mishandling of the situation and constant neglection of any form of development led everyone to the situation where all is lost when in fact, it could have been prevented.

Guess what, it is a big problem and it has been that way ever since the word “resilience” has been connected to Filipinos.

A mark of a true resilient nation is their quick recovery from a crisis due to the quick response and rehabilitation from the government;

records and albums of their favorite artist. However, the music industry has found its way through online means. Popular apps that stream music like Spotify, ITunes, and YouTube have been getting quite a lot of attention in this modern age. So in this opinion, we will find out if the music industry is truly extinct.

This echo chamber is damaging to our grasp of truth. When we don’t hear opposing views, our biases and faulty judgment go unnoticed. Fallacious statements slip through the cracks but since the news feed mirrors the same sentiments, no one bats an eye.

You’ll think that the post you share is factual just as the couple others you follow do.

Musicians used to have their traditional ways of making a business out of what they have been creating. Methods like selling out compact disks and albums that can be bought from record stores were the old-fashioned way of making life out of music.

But not only do we refrain from keeping our biases in check but we’re so adamant of our version of truth that we prematurely disengage in interactions with people that opposes us.

Before you share that, don’t.

Before you share that, don’t. It’s unreliable.

You may be absolutely sure that you’re sharing reliable information or a well-informed opinion. But chances are the posts you see in your feed are only something you’d like to hear—not necessarily reflecting reality.

Netflix’ The Social Dilemma brought together tech experts to discuss this problem. According to them, your feed is designed to mirror your interests and echo your thoughts. Because of this “echo chamber”, you’re only hearing opinions that align to yours.

“Ah, Dilawan ka? Sige, bye.”

“Yikes, DDS alert.”

It’s common to shut down any discussion once we know the political affiliations of others. Hell, some are even challenging to unfriend them solely because of this difference. This refusal to listen is, again, damaging since it incites polarizing attitudes and inhibits useful discourse.

No one is safe. No matter your views or affiliations, we’re all susceptible in this echo chamber. After all, we’re all humans, slaves to our own cognitive biases.

So before you share that, don’t.

If it aligns oh so perfectly to your beliefs, stop and check. Don’t just believe it solely because it’s convenient to your previously-held viewpoints.

Challenge yourself and escape the echo chamber.

EDITORIAL BOARD AY 2 02 0 - 2 021

the

BELLOWS

the official student publication of Aquinas School

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Gian Clarke Raphael Marquez ASSOCIATE EDITORS Daniel Ramos III Austin Castañeda

Indeed, every human has been equipped with the sense of survival and the will to continue moving forward despite the many challenges in life. This, with no doubt, is what the Filipinos are as their unwavering determination to recover made each and everyone stronger than before. However, this materialized into a trend that went out of hand as the word “resilience” has been used to undermine the incompetence and mishandling of those governing.

Is the music industry dead?

The music industry has been fading ever since its peak from past times. Especially nowadays during the pandemic period, concerts have been getting cancelled and artists have not been able to find their business through live music.

However, has it truly died?

By music’s death, I mean that the industry is not getting any more attention. The quality of music that various artists has been portraying have been getting worse, which can be subjective. There have been less people going to record stores nowadays. Compared to when people would always come to stores to buy CD’s,

STAFFWRITERS Sean Willem Giron Janzen Jacinto Anthony Jeth del Rosario Marc Kenji Reyes CONTRIBUTOR Liam Isaac O’Toole LAYOUT ARTIST Daniel Ramos III

William James Adams Jr., better known by his stage name will.i.am says that “There are no more record stores, and they’re not even making record players. CD’s aren’t even in laptops anymore, and even getting less and less in vehicles, so what industry are you talking about?” will.i.am heavily stated that the music industry has been truly dead, because nobody goes to record stores anymore. He also believes that an artist cannot make a living out of YouTube alone.

In addition, people even pirate music because they do not want to pay for it. There are various illegal ways to obtain quality music for free without even spending anything. This isunfair, but there are numerous people who have always pirated music for free.

not a nation recovering with slow or even without any compensation from them.

A true resilient nation is a nation that acts swiftly after a disaster to ensure that its impacts will be lessened or even prevented once it strikes again; not a nation being battered by numerous calamities and still do not have the capabilities to mitigate its effects the next time it happens.

The Philippines is far from being a true adaptable nation. For the meantime, it is a country with no other option but to live the life of a periodically ravaged country and to forcefully move forward from the preventable losses due to an inept governance.

One thing is clear: find everyone accountable of the avertible losses and never romanticize resilience unless we are able to stand up against anything as one. But, as long as we have to plead for development in disaster management countless times and have to look for a leader in the midst of crisis (which we should not even be doing by the way), we cannot call ourselves as the epitome of resilience.

On the contrary, music has never been more alive than before. More and more records and songs are being made by independent artists that post their songs through services like YouTube or SoundCloud.

The truth is, it is not enough to make a living. There are too much material being made, and most of the listeners would want it for free.

So the music industry may not be dead, but it is certainly struggling.

It can be hard to become known when so many are also competing for fame and success.

Despite that, the music industry still perseveres. Multiple audio workstations have been introduced and now occupied by multiple users. With multiple advancements like technological advances and huge growths in music instrument sales; the industry in its core is still fighting.

The old major labels have now been considered obsolete by some, but the birth of new streaming applications have found their way to give artists credit and payment for their talents.

So always remember that the music industry is not dead, but it is still struggling due to free demands by listeners. Independent artists may have trouble going on their own way, but with enough effort and practice they can become great musicians.

So take a look at your own country, and support your local artists!

VISUAL ARTISTS Jan Vince Sadang Ronin Villaroya Gerard Peña Gian Clarke Raphael Marquez Noah Yalung Abante

CONSULTANTS Mr. Christian Jeff Cariaga Mr. Mark Dinlasan

ADVISER Ms. Giselle Ann Posadas

FOLLOW US ON

DIRECTRESS/PRINCIPAL Sr. Rosalinda F. Calong, OP

@aquinastbp

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LEISURE

COMIC-AL!

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6

DISCONNECTED

By Gerard Peña

The Last Stand

By Ronin Villaroya

THEME: I-SEE-T

Schoology Zoom YouTube Discord

Google Facebook Twitter TikTok

SAY WHUUUUT? The words below may sound gibberish. But try saying them over again and perhaps you’ll find out.

Buff feel leash huh Wander her womb hen Abe less sing indies guys Laws din trance lay shin

THE LAST STAND

Disguise they’ll him it Answers on next page

EYE CANDY Train your mind’s eye by trying to figure out what the images are trying to say

TROU try Answers on next page

YOU’RE

BLE

stand 2

11

LEISURE SCIPUN MUSIC RECOMMENDATIONS

Did you hear? Oxygen went on a date with potassium.

You gotta hear this...

Looking for some tunes to vibe to? Our fellow Aquinian got you covered.

Listen to what they are jamming to by scanning the Spotify codes below through the Spotify app.

First Things First

It went OK.

Hodera

suggested by Daniel Ramos III

ALGEBRAIN TEASER

An aching indie rock album depicting immense depression, longing for intimacy, search for lost summer love and intense desire for escapism - all narrated through vivid imagery and solid music.

SEND + MORE MONEY

Must-hear: Best Intentions, Holding Patterns, Out of Sync Best lyrics: “I just want you to picture / both my eyes looking intently. / Hear my voice as free verse poetry. / Feel my hands painting your body. / Don’t regret you ever met me.”

Each letter above represents a unique digit. Find the numbers to make this equation true.

“In this dream that I had, / I was already dead. / Floating over my grave / on my tombstone, it read / only the dates. That’s all it said / and no one was there / but my pastor and dad.”

Hinuha

Answers on next page

Alisson Shore

CROSSWORD

suggested by Gian Marquez 1

A mark of a talented artist is the ability to create something out of nothing. Listen to this beautiful hodgepodge of lyrics from a twitter thread created by Filipino artist Alisson Shore and composed of numerous twitter users.

2

3

Best lyrics: “Wala namang katibayan na natanggap / Ngiti mo lang nagsabi saking totoo ang lahat”

4

“Pinagtanto tayo sa simula ng libro / Ngunit di rin tayo umabot sa dulo ng ating kwento” 5

Escape

Rupert Holmes (The Pina Coleda Song )

7

6

suggested by Austin Castañeda Fan of old classics from the 70s? Or perhaps a seasoned Marvel Cinematic Universe fan? If you are in to champagne, listen to this classic love song by Rupert Holmes to travel back to the past and jam to the catchy tunes!

Best lyrics: “It was my own lovely lady / And she said, ‘Oh, it’s you’ / Then we laughed for a moment / And I said, ‘I never knew’”

New Perspective

Panic! At the Disco

suggested by Hero Barotea Sometimes life hits us hard but smile and pucker up, look at a new perspective and everything will be all right.

Best lyrics: “I feel the salty waves come in / I feel them crash against my skin / And I smile as I respire because / I know they’ll never win”

8

9

DOWN

1. Tfw when you roast someone; also Megan Thee Stallion 2. Bitter 3. Hi sisters!

6. Seen for five days

ACROSS

2. Fancams everywhere 4. #SomeoneIsOverParty 5. Lot’s of breathing, shaky camera, fake crying 7. Spill the ___ 8. Keyboard warriors unite 9. Screenshots of convos THEME: GEN-Z THINGS

ANSWER: 1. Bye Felicia 2. Wonder Woman 3. A blessing in disguise 4. Lost in translation 5. The sky’s the limit; 1. You’re in big trouble 2. Try to understand

12

LESIURE

Illustration by Daniel Ramos III

by Austin Castañeda

T I M E A N D T I M E the royal military. A branch of ensured for them to win. This Alexei replied “I have to see and grabbed the lifeless Alexrelatives and siblings that spe- is part of Alexei’s honorary my wife and son…” and so he ei and said “This is no time to A G A I N , there will come a cialized in the military. Most of influence. Although that may rushed towards his home near die.” Everything became silent, day where one will be chosen or choose to become a soldier.

A profession that not everyone can simply withstand. These people go through the toughest trainings in order to make them stronger than your average citizen. A heavy burden is the cost of becoming a soldier, because the faith of those who rely on you can be pressuring. Not to mention all that you have will be left behind just to join the military.

Despite that, a new bond can be formed inside the military.

These can be called comrades, allies...friends. These people become to be your best ally through the rough training and suffering that a soldier has to pull through. However, time will come when you and your friends will rush into hell, and into death. This is the story of Alexei, the soldier who lost everything.

Alexei is a man of honor. He lived the simplest of lives, with a wife and a son. Their family lived happily on the coast of an island on Alexei’s hometown.

His wife was a botanist, and always tended her plants in the garden. To celebrate their first son, she planted a tree at the same time he was born. The tree was named after their son.

However, Alexei left. He never wanted to leave his family, but his bloodline could not permit him to do so. Alexei’s original family and blood is part that of

the members would become part of the Black Ops squad dispatched with only the best of fighters. Therefore, Alexei did not have a choice but to live a life he did not want.

The past life was left, but not forgotten. Alexei trained like a devil, pushing himself so hard that he would pass out and get back again. Not even getting an ounce of sleep. He suffered for many months in the military in order to become stronger.

Through his suffering, he met a silver lining. When it was time for the cadets to be grouped into their squads, Alexei met two people. Igor, and Viktor.

These two men were his squad mates and together they were a pack. Together with their Captain Ivan, the three were named Sector 8 of the Black Ops dispatch.

In battle the three were unstoppable with the command of their leader. The strength of this group was so intense, that the name Sector 8 was known by most of their enemies. Alexei, Igor, Viktor, and the strategies by Captain Ivan always ensured that their side got the advantage in the war.

The number of lives they have taken together could not even be counted. Even with them being an unstoppable force, Sector 8 was never an enemy that would pull dirty tactics.

They pressure their attacks with brute force and power that

ANSWER: SEND + MORE = 9567 + 1085 = 10652.

have caused the downfall of Sector 8.

the waters. “Damn it!” Viktor shouted.

Like always said, “The Bigger they are, the harder they fall.”

That was the case for Sector 8. On the year of 1947 amidst the Great Continental War, the enemy forces disguised as citizens of Kamachatka, the Russian Peninsula. This was a high-level threat, as hostages were taken alive. In accordance to this attack, Sector 8 of the Black Ops Dispatch was sent to eliminate all kinds of threats. Alexei was infuriated, as Kamachatka is his hometown.

Alexei’s heart was pounding fast whilst running. When they executed the counter-attack, no civilians were ever found outside. Blood was spilled inside the houses in the area.

This could only mean one thing… Alexei rushed towards his house, pulled and turned the knob of the door so fast that it broke. He furiously kicked the door, knocking it down.

And there he saw. His wife, and his son, lifeless. Blood and bullets scattered across the wooden floor. Alexei’s eyes were as wide as ever. Suddenly, he heard multiple gunshots and incoming fire coming from outside. Alexei was shook, and could not move a single muscle. Bullets blazing through the windows of his home. He heard a loud yell that said “Quick! Into the house!” It was Viktor and Igor, his squad mates. They rushed into the house and took cover behind the walls. Viktor saw Alexei shocked and staring at the two bodies whilst gunfire was coming. He quickly grabbed Alexei and pulled him to the wall where they kept their head down. Viktor said “What do we do? We are pinned down!” Igor replied by saying “We have nothing to do.

This is our last stand. There can be no escape.” Igor then looked down at the dead child and woman. Igor stood up

Despite their best efforts, Sector 8 was toppled by the enemy forces through use of hostages as their shield. Part of these hostages were Alexei’s wife and son. While they were imprisoned by the enemy in the rural houses, Igor planned a counter-attack that could give them a window to escape.

Alexei and Viktor could escape to rendezvous with Ivan that is holding outside of the area.

They executed this counter-attack by subduing guards of close proximity, and took their weapons to continue to push back outside the city. As they were making the run for it, Alexei slowed down.

Igor said “What are you doing?

We have to get out of here, Captain Ivan is waiting for us!”

gunshots were still going but everything became quiet for a moment for Alexei. “We are devils, and we do not deserve a merciful death. So give up on your dream of living the life as we will charge into the enemy without halt.” Alexei heard from Igor. Gunshots were fired even faster, and they all took cover.

Igor looked into Viktor’s eyes and nodded. He then looked to Alexei, and Alexei was the one who nodded to him.

The Turrets from the enemy forces continue to rain down on Alexei’s old house. But every firearm cannot hold infinite bullets in its magazine, so the front turret had to cease fire. In this time, a loud bang occurred in front of the house. The dirt and sand in the ground flew up high into the air as grenades flung them. Together with this, Sector 8 rushed behind the falling debris as cover to gun their enemies down. The main front man who handled the turret was shot down quickly, and the surrounding enemies were decreasing little by little as Sector 8 threw more and more grenades in front of them to use as cover. However, time came that they would run out of grenades. More enemy troops came in and Igor, Alexei, and Viktor were shot down. Viktor took multiple shots to the body and near the heart. Igor Continue on page 13

13

LESIURE

Illustration by Jan Vince Sadang

Astronomer

by Daniel Ramos III

NEW NORMAL

How it happened was beyond them.

How it unfolded was an enigma.

All he ever knew was on his chest was where he was meant to be just as the stars were set in position by some unfathomable force that holds everything.

Every matter, every atom.

Every quantum that travelled, every wave that traversed the harsh void of space was held by the same force that held these two bodies together.

The crookedness of their days are nothing against the nights of grandeur.

But alas, stars do decay.

Too much fervent energy, too much heated passion yields the fallout of a stellar explosion.

Now all he ever sees are remnants of the past light years away engulfed in the void.

He

thought he’d never see the stars the same way again.

by Jeth del Rosario

by Gian Marquez

He liked the stars.

Maybe too much.

It’s underneath the glint of a million that embraced the sky and beneath when he knew.

Taking Flight

“What is it this time?”

Deafening silence echoed through the room.

pletely empty. Like I have given all of it”.

“Now, I’m going to enjoy saying this to you. I told you so”.

“It?”

“You don’t have to slap it in my face”, Rafee said.

“Am I being called here again for nothing? Really, what is it?”

“My everything”, Rafee said faintly coupled with an empty look on his face.

Not a single peep is coming out of Rafee’s mouth. His eyes are barely being illuminated by an orange-pitched lamp from a distance.

“I’m still here. So technically you didn’t give all of yo—”

“Let me guess. Another breakdown of yours?”

“Nah”, Rafee said in a soft and almost inaudible tone.

“This time, it’s different.”

He slowly got up from his bed and sat with his pillow being wrapped around tightly by his arms. He suddenly let out a deep sigh together with a lost look from his eyes.

“Being stuck in this room for 7 months really is frustr—” “No. That’s not it”, Rafee interrupted. “I just feel com-

Story of a Soldier continued from page 12

took a bullet straight through the head, rendering him dead on impact. Alexei was shot in the thigh and the shoulder, and was knocked unconscious by falling and hitting his head. The enemies finally let their guard down, and held their fire on the three bodies lying on the open floor. Just then, Viktor chucked his last and final grenade into the explosives of the enemy forces, reducing their number to almost zero.

“You’re in my mind. Stop talking dumb”, he hissed. His grip on the pillow becomes tighter as teardrops started falling from his eyes. The room’s ambiance suddenly shifted as he started whimpering. A minute passed and he started calming down as silence filled the room once again.

“I regret everything”, he said with a rumbling tone under his voice. Rafee crawled slowly out of his bed and started walking towards the mirror in front of him. He stared thoughtlessly in his own reflection being reflected back. It’s like looking at a chasm plagued by darkness.

This was the end of Sector 8. After the battle, there was many footsteps and a voice was heard. It was Captain Ivan. But who heard it? “I don’t remember who I was.” Said the man who was in terrible condition that lost a huge pool of blood. “You are a man of formidable leadership.

With honor that no one else could ever have. The one that lost everything, but still kept going.” Said Captain Ivan. Captain Ivan looked at the man’s condition and carried him into

“But I really did and you refused to listen”. Rafee’s empty face was quickly replaced by an irritated expression.

“Okay, okay. I’m sorry. It’s just that I have been telling you countless times already but you nudged me off. Though, are you for real this time?”

“Certainly”, Rafee straightforwardly.

replied

You wait for tomorrow, you think I’ll still be there Come midnight I’m flying with the birds in the air What we have is special, that I can’t deny But it isn’t working, I don’t want to try So close your eyes, rest your weary head When you open your eyes, I’ve already fled I came in your life as fast as I’ll go What can I say, what we had is a bubble ready to blow

“So, you’re going to stop being the old you? For real?”

“New normal”, he said without a single hint of hesitation in his voice.

His thoughts slowly crawled back at the back of his mind with contentment. He slowly looked at himself once more in the mirror as his eyes were suddenly filled with a faint, green shine.

the house that was complete of bullet holes. He sat the man down at a chair in the garden.

This house near the coast of the sea was devastated, blood was spattered on the floor and walls while the windows were all shattered. The plants and flowers in the garden were also looking like they had no life in them. But a tall tree stood in the center of the front garden.

It was untouched, and beautiful. The man stared at it, and remembered the one thing.

The defender. This is Alexei, the story of a soldier.

Two Sides

by Liam O’Toole One side is privileged The other is not One is effortlessly saved The other is left with naught The gap is huge The gap is true It is both seen by everyone Including me and you Two sides of the human race The rich and the poor The first has it easy While the latter begs from door-to-door Because of the pandemic All has been revealed The social classes of the people And the problems that make us yield

14

SCIENCE

Two scientists join the roster of female laureates in Nobel Prize for Chemistry

Science’s next big thing—CRISPR

by Gian Marquez

Did you ever had that wild idea of controlling how you look before growing up? How about that idea of freeing the whole world from any sickness by creating the most powerful immunity ever?

It turns out you are not alone in these imaginations. In fact, millions have stumbled on these fantasies and made their voyage to discover their possibilities into making them reality. Now, with more than thousands of experts venturing in the vast unknown of science, scientists were able to materialize these ideas through a very instrumental discovery—the CRISPR technology.

Photo by Nature

Limitations who? We only know CRISPR.

#EQUALITYISREAL Allies for equality, rejoice!

Jennifer Doudna and Emmanuelle Charpentier accepted their Nobel Prize in Chemistry in early October for their groundbreaking discovery of a gene-editing technology. The technology, known as CRISPR, became a product of their year-long collaboration.

As expected, their success story was a rocky one.

Being a woman in a male-dominated field, Doudna expressed the discrimination she experienced dating back from childhood. “I loved math. People teased me about it. I felt pretty much like an outcast,” she told The New York Times.

To many women, a STEM career doesn’t seem as an option as there’s a “subtle but unfortunately effective discouragement.”

Luckily to Doudna, she found a good role model to nudge her into the STEM path. She attended a talk about cancer cells in her high school. Captivated by the female scientist speaking, she realized that women can indeed have a science-related career. “This feminine person was clearly an incredible scientist,” she told California Magazine. This moment ignited her passion for science even more.

Even now, women like Doudna and Charpentier are subjected to certain expectations. Laura Hirshfield explored women’s lived experiences in her work, Authority, Expertise, and Impression Management: Gendered Professionalization of Chemists in the Academy. She

by Daniel Ramos discovered that female scientists may be pressured to masculine norms. Masculinity and competitiveness is associated with success in the STEM field.

Despite these challenges, Doudna did not cave in. “[Women] can pursue these fields and they can be feminine, they can be mothers, they can be wives—they really can do all those things and do it on their own terms,” she told Huffington Post.

Their perseverance in their curiosities allowed them to excel in their fields, consequently winning the Nobel Prize for Chemistry.

Road to Nobel The inciting incident for their discovery is rather spontaneous. Both had already established a substantial body of work. Charpienter was tinkering with bacterial RNA that would be instrumental in the technology while Doudna was investigating unusual repeated sequences vital in the immunity of bacteria.

Their brilliant minds collide when Doudna and Charpentier met in academic conferences years ago. The conferences sparked informal conversations about genetic editing. The day later, conversations evolved to plans of collaboration.

They’d exchange ideas for a year until they published their landmark work, A Programmable Dual-RNA–Guided DNA Endonuclease in Adaptive Bacterial Immunity. Then, the rest was history.

Inspiring future generations Just as a female scientist made Doudna realize that science is for everyone, even women, they hoped to do the same to a new generation.

“My wish is that this will provide a positive message to the young girls who would like to follow the path of science,” Charpienter said. “Recognitions are... independent of gender,” she added.

Doudna had similar insights, stating that it is “great for especially younger women to see this and to see that women’s work can be recognized as much as men’s.

“I think for many women there’s a feeling that, no matter what they do, their work will never be recognized as it might be if they were a man,” she said.

Several studies explored this double standards in the field. Mary Amon’s Looking through the Glass Ceiling: A Qualitative Study of STEM Women’s Career Narratives discovered women had the increased pressure to one-up men to be successful.

Despite the challenges, they remained optimistic, “I’d like to see that change, of course, and I think this is a step in the right direction.”

It is indeed a step to the right direction. The last two decades recognized 28 female laurates in this pantheon of brilliant scientists. Compare this figure to the four women awarded in years 1901-1920.

Now, that’s progress.

The Clusters of Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats, better known as CRISPR is powerful instrument for editing gene functions of different species.

CRISPR is also a shorthand term for CRISPR-Cas9 which are specialized regions and expanses present in a DNA. This specialized region of DNA has two distinct features: the presence of repeater and spacer nucleotides. The repeater nucleotides are distributed throughout the specialized region while spacers are bits of DNA which are interspaced among the repeated sequences.

On the other hand, Cas9, a protein is a type of enzyme that serves as a pair of molecular scissors that is capable of cutting DNA strands. Sounds like something straight from science fiction, isn’t it?

This type of technology was adapted from the normal defenses of single-celled microorganisms such as bacteria and archaea. These tiny entities are known to use various Cas proteins—including Cas9—and use them to destroy the DNA of foreign invaders. This feature in the said organisms allows the editing of genes once transferred to more complex organisms like humans.

In bacteria, spacers are taken from viruses that previously invaded the organism as these serve as a memory bank that enables the bacteria to quickly recognize the foreign invader should another attack happen thus, creating an immunity.

This was first observed in 2007 by Rodolphe Barrangou and his team. A journal was published about a bacteria known as *Streptococcus thermophilus* and can be commonly found in dairy products was used as a specimen to verify and test this immunity. After the specimen has been attacked by a virus, new spacers which are identical to the virus’ genome, were inserted in the bacteria’s CRISPR region.

This altered the bacteria’s resistance, thus creating a new viral immunity.

It got THAT power CRISPR possess both simplicity and efficiency, making it a powerful tool that can be easily attained by everyone for editing and altering genomes. This is the reason why experts are eager to harness the technology’s potential and use it in various causes.

Just like when scientists were able to construct mosquitos that are malaria-resistant by deleting a segment of the mosquito’s DNA. This resistance was passed down to 99% of the mosquito’s offspring despite mating with unaltered mosquitos.

Given its ability to modify genetic information, the creation of pharmaceutical drugs are also one of the reason why CRISPR is the next big scientific thing. Multiple international medical companies already invested millions to develop CRISPR-based drugs to treat heart, blood and even optical disorders.

CRISPR also gives cancer a run for its own money as it can give cells immunity to make them an effective killing machine against cancer cells. Moreover, scientist may execute a successful treatment plan by evaluating the sensitivity of genes to new cancer treatments. In this way, the mortality rate of the disease may decrease.

CRISPR also has a significant impact on the environment. Plastic usage will be reduced significantly through the help of the technology as it can manipulate a specific type of yeast that converts sugars into hydrocarbons— an essential element in plastic-based materials. This will reduce the need for petroleum-based plastics which helps the environment recover from this heavy pollutant.

Continue on page 15

15

LESIURE

Illustration by Ronin Villaroya

Take the shot?

by Gian Marquez

Nature really has that indispensable balance between worlds that once tipped on the benefit of a side, the other goes down with greater consequences.

It has been almost a year since the COVID-19 pandemic devastated the whole world by its infective and disruptive agendas. Backtracking to the origin of the virus, it originated from the human consumption of exotic animals—a perfect reflection of nature’s grand scale.

Now, as the world near its first year under the ongoing pandemic, different countries are trying to race against time to develop a vaccine that will put the contagion at peace.

In the rapid and sudden demand for the cure, vaccine manufacturers searched for ingredients at every corner— even going as far as mass killing of sharks.

An organization specializing in the preservation of sharks called Shark Allies stated that more than 500,000 sharks could be killed due to this rapidly increasing demand.

In the United States alone, an estimated 21,000 sharks are being lined up in the death row to ensure the entire American population of a vaccine.

Assuming that 2 doses of squalene is needed for a single person, China who have an approximate 1.43 billion people, needs more than 92,000 sharks must be killed to produce a substantial amount of the adjuvant.

If the trend continues, the shark population can ultimately lead to its close, if not total endangerment worldwide.

Now, the dilemma Realistically speaking, killing majority of the shark population is the most convenient way to produce a cure.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

EARTH IS HEALING?

People believe that the earth is healing. It is, slowly. There have been shortages of air pollution; carbon dioxide emissions have decreased and the government In the field of vaccinology, one has more time with cleaning the environment and sanitizing it now that people are of the vital components of a mostly staying at home. commercial vaccine is an im- This is the reason why many munological agent known as animal organizations are forc- It seems like we should just keep doing what we are doing, right? But it seems that adjuvant which heightens its ing the vaccine manufacturers some of the things that we do can cause more damage to the earth, slowing the immune response and fortify- to turn to plants since they can process of its healing. Now, what are these things? also contain squalene. ing its effectivity to humans.

A special type of adjuvant in the form of squalene is located in the livers of sharks which is pretty abundant in all of the world’s oceans—well, not for long.

However, the dilemma requires more than just pleading given that everyone is eyeing to go back to normal as the pandemic already toppled major economies and human activity.

Over the years, squalene is utilized in the medical field as a remedy to wounds and skin problems as well as to reduce wrinkles, scars and freckles.

A year into this global pandemic and everyone is back to where they started. We are once again relying on animals which in return, will deal a significant blow on their side.

The “fishy” deal Given that the necessary vaccinal adjuvant can be found in sharks, various producers are considering mass killing of sharks to cope the demands of vaccine production.

...CRISPR

continued from page 14 Though, it also have THAT threat The potential of CRISPR is indeed amazing as it can put an end on some of the world’s biggest problems both in the medical and environmental field. However, behind its efficacy also lies growing concerns about various ethical issues that comprises genetic engineering and manipulating—one of which is the idea of “designer babies”.

But, if there is one thing that we should have known by now, it is that nature will do everything to regain balance— even if it needs to put humans in danger.

While it might be a good idea to have CRISPR around as it ensures that any human offspring will not acquire any disease, some argue that the technology could be used to start genetic discrimination by filtering “undesirable characteristics” or eugenics. The eugenic capabilities of CRISPR is the point of concern for the critics as racism may become more rampant.

Because of the discriminatory potential, extreme caution and parameters are still being strictly observed despite CRISPR-related ex-

One activity is the ordering of food online. Due to people not being able to go outside but still wanting to eat fast food, the amount of trash is big. This influx of waste causes the efforts of the government cleaning to be less effective.

What companies should do to lessen their damage to the environment is to make the utensils and some containers reusable and easily cleanable and the other waste should be biodegradable, so that we may lessen the waste we use.

Another activity is the excessive owning of plants due to the rise of plantitos and planti-

periments in the human embryo being allowed in selected countries.

Moreover, the idea of humans having total control over the genetic drive of nature is also a growing concern of the international community.

Think of the genetic drive as the encyclopedia of nature where everything is contained within. Now, put the idea of CRISPR in this encyclopedia; thus, humans now have the power to manipulate and edit the encyclopedia of nature.

by Sean Giron tas. A lot of people are buying plants and taking care of them.

Having a drive to take care of nature is a good thing, but these has caused worrying things to happen to our environment and economy.

Plants have raised up in price due to how many people are selling. Aris Trinidad, who is behind the YouTube channel Plantrippy, said “prices [of plants] are steadily increasing since the pandemic. It is shocking.”

Cases of poaching wild plants have risen due to the high de-

These alterations in the codes of nature will be passed down to generation after generations, even mistakes. The smallest misstep can result to incurable diseases or mutations that the human race will have no control over.

The future with CRISPR technology around A future wherein CRISPR has been fully realized is a future where “impossible” is non-existent.

In short, a near-perfect tomorrow is imminent with CRISPR

mand but the low supply. Some would even go out of there way as to steal other people’s plants.

These are most of the reasons as to why this activity is worrying.

Even though this article is filled with negative points, staying at home has proven to be helpful, like the decrease of air pollution, and the decrease of carbon emissions.

It is better to stay at home than to risk our lives outside, so that once this pandemic is over, we will still have a chance to fight for the wellness of mother earth. around. However, it is also a future where the risks and consequences are greater than before. Such powerful tool can easily be abused, causing more harm than good. The helpful technology may easily backfire with as little as one misstep.

In the end, it is still our responsibility to harness its power for the benefit and not to the dismay of everyone.

We must see to it that we are getting better with CRISPR.

16

SPORTS

Photo by David Lee/Riot Games

ESPORTS ALERT

DAMWON Gaming triumphs in Worlds DAMWON Gaming defeated Suning 3-1 in Shanghai, China on October 31, 2020 to raise the Worlds Cup and crown Korea to become champions of the rift after 3 years.

In the League of Legends E-Sports scene, Korea has dominated for most years with notable teams like SK Telecom and Samsung Galaxy that dominated the international tournaments.

However, in the 2018 and 2019 Worlds Finals Korea fell short and teams from China (Invictus Gaming and FunPlus Phoenix) took the cup consecutively.

This Worlds 2020 DAMWON Gaming featured Jang “Nuguri” Ha-gwon in the Top Lane, Kim “Canyon” Geonbu as Jungle, Heo “ShowMaker” Su in the Mid Lane, and Jang “Ghost” Yong-jun and Cho

“BeryL” Geon-hee as Bot and Support.

“We tried to prove ourselves that LCK is a strong league and I’m happy that we prove the world that we can restore the glory of the LCK,” said Nuguri in a post-match interview.

In the first game, both teams traded blow for blow as the lead went towards each team back and forth.

Both Champion Drafts were consistent, though DAMWON Gaming favored a bit of an advantage with their selection of champions.

Suning put up a great fight but the game was ultimately ended by DAMWON Gaming with their hold of the dragon objective and closed the game at 43 minutes and 50 seconds with 21 kills, 5,000 gold lead and 9 turrets.

For game two, the tables had turned as Suning persevered and turned the battle into their favor, even with DAMWON Gaming looking fairly strong.

the lead, however DAMWON Gaming’s lead with objectives and coordinated fights proved to be a critical point for their victory in this game.

Chen “Bin” Ze-Bin’s brilliant mechanical outplays and control of the champion Fiora granted them a strong finish as he got the first ever Penta-kill to be featured in the Worlds Finals.

The third match ended at 35 minutes and 7 seconds, with DAMWON leading at 16 kills, a 4,000 gold lead and 7 turrets.

Bin ended with the statistics of 10 kills, 1 death, and 4 assists.

The game ended at 34 minutes and 35 seconds as Suning led with 20 kills, a 6,000 gold lead and 8 turrets and complete drake soul.

However, in the third game DAMWON Gaming played the map well and focused on shutting down Bin as he proved to be a strong force for Suning.

Suning was able to find valuable moments to get back in

For the final match with DAMWON Gaming in match point, they showed complete dominance, proving to be consistently strong throughout the whole game.

He was voted LA Lakers win the historic in11-0NBAfor history. the awards as he finished Game 6 with 28 points, 2020 NBA Championship 14 rebounds, and 10 assists.

by Jeth del Rosario The Los Angeles Lakers, led by the motivated superstar LeBron James’ triple double show, put an end to one of the most memorable seasons by winning their 17th banner on Sunday against the Miami Heat, 106-93.

It was just another chapter written for LeBron as he won hist 4th Championship and 3rd Finals MVP award. the first Finals MVP was with the Cleveland Cavaliers, theb Miami Heat, and the Los Angeles Lakers. Doing so, he became the first player to win the award for 3 different teams

All while beating Derek Fisher for most played playoff games of all time.

“It means a lot to represent this franchise,” James said as he remembered telling the team owner, Jeanie Buss in 2018 with the intention of putting the Lakers “back where it belongs.”

the Pudong Soccer Stadium in Shanghai to honor their opponents and to lift the Worlds Trophy Cup. In a post-game interview, ShowMaker said that he practiced really hard to be helpful for his teammates and that he was greatful that they were able to lift the trophy.

This Worlds Finals proved to be enjoyable and engaging as DAMWON Gaming and Suning were toe-to-toe in almost every match.

DAMWON Gaming’s plays were consistently successful as they played each fight correctly and took every objective.

Worlds 2020 may come to a close, but League of Legends is a dynamic game with new annual changes every year.

Game 4 ended with DAMWON Gaming having 23 kills, a 10,000 gold lead and 9 turrets with the complete dragon soul.

The next Worlds 2021 will be coming up as teams from different countries will come to compete to become champions and take over.

This secured them the win, as they walked at the stage of

Anthony Davis put up tremendous numbers as well as he played for his first title series before his frustrating run with New Orleans Pelicans finishing Game 6 with 19 points and 15 rebounds.

Photo by Sports Illustrated

by Austin Castañeda

The Lakers dedicated the rest of the season to one of the greatest Lakers in NBA history, the late Kobe Bryant who along with his daughter, Gianna Bryant died eight months before in a tragic helicopter crash. Kobe also led the Lakers to their titles back in 2000, 2001, 2002, 2009 and 2010.

The season was indeed a memorable one as most people thought that it wouldn’t continue. It proved to be emotional for the Lakers with the loss of Kobe and the continuation in the NBA’s bubble in Orlando,

Florida due to the Coronavirus pandemic along with demands of social and racial justice all over the United States.

The Championship has also cemented legacies and fairy tale endings for some players like Rajon Rondo who first won the Championship with the Lakers’ all-time rivals, the Boston Celtics, Dwight Howard who played for the Lakers in the 2012-2013 season, made it up to Los Angeles as he wanted to back in 2013. JaVale McGee and Danny Green became three-time Champions as well with Green winning it back-to-back as he won it with the Toronto Raptors the season before.