Atenews Vol. 65 No. 4 March 2020 by Atenews

NEW CARMEN OR BUST City landfill reaches maximum capacity | P11 STRIPPED AWAY FROM REFUGE The Lumads amid Haran attack | P13 THE ATENEO FASHÚN Dress code dilemmas in the University | P16 UCCP Haran stands with Lumad, condemns attack by armed group

Amid cost-cutting, AdDU to impose 6 percent tuition hike

PAGE 4

PAGE 8

DVO implements building closure ordinance PAGE 9

Online summer classes to push thru despite COVID-19 To combat the spread of COVID-19, AdDU takes on preventive measures such as postponing graduation ceremonies, suspending classes, and conducting online sessions. A week before the cancellation of classes due to COVID-19 outbreak, Ateneans were seen wearing masks as a preventive measure. Photo by Jeni Anne Rosario

Kim Angel Cautivo & Percival Cyber Vargas

dDU will push through with the online summer classes, albeit postponed, according to Samahan officers. The online classes are moved to April 13 from the prior schedule date of April 6, per Samahan’s request, “to be understanding to those students who may have some financial difficulties”, to the admin’s approval. For its online-paid fees, Samahan officer Samantha Cayona, said the admin will still have to consult finance. V O L

6 5

N O

M A R C H

This is despite the concerns of some students on insufficient resources and lack of or poor internet connection, especially those currently in provinces and far-flung areas. Student Thyra Navarro tweeted: “Aside from the fact that not all students have enough resources to access the internet (e.g. laptop, desktop, enough data), let’s face it, our country also has INCONSISTENT internet connection speed. So what do you expect? Just saying.” Samahan President Christian Dominic Ang said while they did their part in voicing out the concern of students, they are not the sole body that decides the operation of 2 0 2 0

the school. He said Samahan did not request the cancellation of online summer classes. “My personal take on this kasi if we will cancel summer classes, those who are required to take it will become irregular or worst, can’t graduate on time. I do not want that to happen to any student,” he said in an interview via messenger. Last March 19, Samahan conducted an online survey to know students’ concerns and recommendations on online classes. When asked how they accounted the response of those without internet connection, Ang said the cluster representatives gathered

the concerns and disseminated it through group chats. “[S]ome were in the form of text messages, and students who don’t have internet connection asked their friends with data or internet to relay their message or concern to their cluster reps,” he said. Last March 26, the Samahan central board along with the university administration conducted an online conference to consolidate the concerns of the students and decision of the administration.

CONTINUE TO PAGE 5 E N D

T H E

NEWS BY THE NUMBERS

₱500

DOH to pay volunteer doctors, nurses daily compensation amid COVID-19

2,000+

Foreign tourists try to exit PH with the rise of COVID-19 cases

75,000

COVID-19 cases could escalate in 3 months without proper intervention, DOH says

S I L E N C E

O F

T H E

G A G G E D

Opinion

A vindictive silencing EDITORIAL

ATENEWS 2019-2020 Editorial Board Julien Jame Apale Editor-in-Chief

Gwyneth Marie Vasquez Assiociate Editor

Sofia Roena Guan, Czar Ysmael Rabaya Managing Editors

Johanna Vaughn Dejito News Editor

Maria Cyra Jane Dealca Art Editor

Allan Acera, Jr. Social Media Editor

Staff Jamrell Vincette Buynay, Rosvir Kate Flores, Ram Manlatican, Percival Cyber Vargas Senior News Writers

Brian Steve Garay

Illustration by Maria Cyra Jane Dealca

Senior Features Writer

Carlo Isiah Escarda, Demi Althea Padillo, Fe Lourence Valente Senior Cartoonists

Moammar Nawang Senior Layout Artist

Joseph Nasser Senior Web Developer

Sheena Allison Dela Salde Senior Field Correspondent

Jose Delviemar Albano, Noriel Jeules Alisoso, Ryar Caasi, Kim Angel Cautivo, Danica Malle Peña, Bai Rehana An-an Sacandal Junior News Writers

Roelle Goebe Bernardo, Rea Jean Cabahug, Katherine Ann Doncila, Alver El John Linaza Junior Feature Writers

Jeni Anne Rosario Junior Photojournalist

Mykiesha Sta. Ana Junior Cartoonist/Illustrator

Stephen Geronilla

ree speech, after all, doesn’t come without a cost.

The struggle for free speech never ends. Now, on its latest push against media outlets President Rodrigo Duterte finds as critical of his administration, Solicitor General Jose Calida lodged a complaint against the country’s leading broadcast network, ABS-CBN. Calida filed a quo warranto accusing the corporation and its subsidiary of violating the operating franchise granted by the Congress which is set to expire this March 30. The petition claims that ABS-CBN unlawfully exercised its franchise by offering paid broadcast without government authorization and allowing foreign ownership of its corporation, months after ABS-CBN filed for its request for franchise renewal. Despite its announcement that a hearing will be held on March 10, the House of Representatives also adjourned its

Junior Layout Artist

John Abiel Villanueva Junior Web Developer

Mara Girl Idpan, Kevin Cody Mahinay, Juan Paulo Miles Junior Field Correspondents

Dr. Cheryl P. Baldric Moderator

Ian Derf Salvaña & Joseph Nasser Tabloid Design

last session day before a two-month Lenten break without tackling the renewal bid. On one hand, the timing of the quo warranto filing raises questions as to the true motive of its petitioner, who is speculated to be acting under the directive of the President himself. The fascist lapdog that he is, Calida’s act is a clear manifestation of political maneuvering motivated by this administration’s desire to stifle the voices which are critical of Duterte’s leadership. Given Duterte’s hold of a supermajority in Congress, it is more disturbing how he may be exerting his power to persuade Congress to stall ABSCBN’s franchise renewal. Evidently, this administration is exhausting its means to gain control of the same institutions which should be checking on its power. Technically speaking, it is unsurprising how the Duterte administration has again employed sinister yet legally ingenious ways to advance

its interests. As it turns out, the quo warranto petition filed against ABSCBN was similar to that filed against the ousted Former Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno. The same litigious power play, however, is not without its fair share of loopholes and contradictions. Based on Calida’s petition, ABS-CBN’s use of Philippine Depositary Receipts (PDRs)--financial instruments sold to local and foreign investors--are unconstitutional since media companies should be 100% Filipino-owned. However, his party failed to reconcile how the franchise of GMA-7, another media giant, was renewed despite having PDRs patterned after ABSCBN’s. In addition,the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) clarified that holders of PDRs do not have voting rights, hence they are not owners of the corporation. Duterte slamming ABS-CBN for not showing his campaign ads in the 2016 elections further sheds light on his unreasonable yet deliberate insistence to shut down the media company.

According to the Philippine Daily Inquirer, only 3.4% of his ads were not aired on national television--these were purchased late and came with a first-come, first-served basis. When a portion of the payment was returned, Duterte refused to accept it. Behind all the litigious games and word wars, it is clear that the move to bar ABS-CBN’s franchise renewal is an affront on press freedom. Looking back at the lessons of history, rift between administrations and the media isn’t entirely new, yet, like ABS-CBN’s experience during the Marcos era, it is threatening how the democratic process could be rendered vulnerable once the press is silenced. As ABS-CBN finds itself at the brink of closure, the Filipino people are also at the edge of losing a long-established dissenting voice. While it forms only a portion of the broad web of news companies in the country, the shutdown of this media giant could severely cripple free speech in the country, and along with it, justice and human rights.

B L U E B L O O D

The discrimination that we're not talking about enough Brian Joseph Unabia

he LGBT community has always had to fight for their position in the society. What should have been non-negotiable human rights have become subjects of cultural and political contestations. The 1969 Stonewall Riot serves as one example of how the LGBT community had to forcefully fight against oppression and discrimination from this heteronormative society. In the present times, the LGBT acceptance has become relatively better, although this is not to say there are no more things left for the community to resist to and fight for. Especially in the

Philippine context where LGBT acceptance seems so superficial, things like equality to marriage and protection in the workplace still needs to be achieved. However, while we’re moving towards an accepting society, there seems to be another challenge arising for the community that we are not talking about enough, and it is happening within. One most blatant manifestations of the internal discrimination within the LGBT community is the refusal of some members to acknowledge that transwomen are women and transmen are men. It is disheartening to think that even some members of the very community transsexuals belong to still reduce womanhood and manhood to a person’s biological characteristics. Some

of them even argued against allowing trans women in female restrooms when the Gretchen Diez issue sparked debates. Much more than all their inconclusive arguments on physicality, the most important thing to internalize here is the respect to the individual’s choice and preference. Every individual has the right to self-actualization, and the community should be the very first people to understand that.

are irked by how the latter present themselves. The perpetuation of machismo and hypermasculinity symbols among gay individuals seems to have promoted negative attitudes towards feminine-acting gays. There are some who don’t like to interact with gays who are flamboyant, loud, and soft because they are too concerned about their self-presentation which, for them, are vital to their partner-finding success.

Another manifestation is the increasing division between different gay subcultures, especially between masculine and effeminate gays. While we understand that masculine is just as legitimate a gay quality as feminine, we still constantly see masculine gays looking down on effeminate gays and

These are just two of the many manifestations of the internal discrimination present within the LGBT community itself. As we proceed with fighting for our community’s total acceptance, may we all be heedful of our own biases in order to progress as one, unified LGBT community.

@atenews facebook.com/atenews @atenews atenews.ph

Member of the College Editors Guild of the Philippines We are located at G/F Arrupe Hall, Martin Building, Ateneo de Davao University, E. Jacinto St., 8016 Davao City

Tel No. (082) 221-2411 loc. 8332

VOL 65 NO. 4

March 2020 issue

E-mail atenews@gmail.com

Crackdown of terrorism or activism? country, they would only become legal frameworks for clampdown of activism and justification of human rights violations.

Julien Jame Apale KAMAYO

asn’t history taught us enough?

The exploitation of anti-terrorism legislations has become one of the most widespread threats to our civil liberties. Restrictions to which have never demonstrated nor proven their effectiveness in fighting terrorism, and with the prevalent culture of red-tagging in the

Undeniably, no state or nation is ever exempt from the threats of terrorism. When these dreaded threats morph into reality, governments are often coaxed to enact countermeasures to prevent its spread and mitigate its effects—frequently, with sheer haste and without careful assessment. Unfortunately, in most cases, legislations predicated by impolitic judgment only make matters worse. With the Senate’s recent approval of “anti-terrorism bill” to its final reading, the future for activists and government critics is imperiled. The key provisions of the said bill cast yet another shadow on the already dire situations of activist groups and organizations.

The problem stems from the definition of terrorism. Essentially, with the bill’s definition, anyone could be accused of committing, conspiring to commit, or threatening to commit terrorism. Even a simple workers’ strike, street rallies or protests can be considered as acts of terrorism. From allowing the police and military to conduct 60-day surveillance on suspected terrorists to detaining them up to 15 days, extendable, even without an arrest warrant, the said bill, if enacted, can also compel telcos to disclose their calls and messages are only a few of its appalling key provisions, among others. With the use of equivocation to effect intimidation and to impair the right to mass-organize and mobilize, activists, political dissenters, right defenders alike, and their legitimate calls are just an inch away from being stifled altogether.

If enforced, the said bill will be prone to abuse due to its susceptibility in being easily employed to silence those who want to express their grievances against the government and consequently demand accountability for it. In truth, the definitions the bill provides are overly broad and vague, to which it immensely affects even free speech. The bill further mentions “glorification of terrorism”—which has been a subject of debate even across the international landscape. In retrospection, countries that tried to sanction such schemes have seen its detrimental effects on their country and its people. When the offences which constitutes terrorism are not appropriately and clearly or too widely defined, that as a result, leads to unwarranted or lopsided restrictions of our fundamental freedoms, it becomes all the more problematic.

A disproportionate limitation of people’s freedoms of expression and association, liberty, and movement, as well as the right to privacy is as functional as state terrorism. Undermining human rights is precisely the objective terrorism pursues. Eradicating it should, in no way, be at the expense of the very principles and values to which our democratic societies are grounded. The bill’s lack of assessment on the impact on human rights is evident that, at a glance, it makes us ask whether or not had history taught us enough. Yet again, with the government’s effort in painting the atmosphere of martial law as a state of normalcy,—through legislation, political maneuvering, and mass desensitization—this should make us question if it is really terrorism that it aims to address to begin with.

“Serve Mindanao“?

Gwyneth Marie Vasquez MASAWA

hen you have an institution that encourages the wearing of indigenous attires for formal events while providing limited opportunities to the actual people it claims to represent, you would have every right to question the sincerity and seriousness of the said institution’s efforts to serve indigenous peoples (IPs). Last May 2019, a gathering of some 70 representatives from different sectors within the University convened for AdDU’s strategic planning, titled “One Ateneo, One Plan.” One of the highlights of the said event was the revision of AdDU’s mission and

vision, specifically, its commitment to strengthen its thrusts in contributing to and serving Mindanao. Today, almost a year after the revision, we see this endeavor being reflected in the many events and programs promoted by the University. While AdDU has, admittedly, succeeded in pushing for the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) last year, it continues to face challenges in terms of its thrusts for Lumad communities. Evidently, pushing for the social, economic, and political empowerment of the Lumad is part of AdDU’s commitment to social justice. According to University President Fr. Joel Tabora, S.J., AdDU as an academic institution seeks “to contribute to Lumad education so that their educated leaders are not alienated from their ethnic cultures.” With this, AdDU provides scholarship grants to the Lumad youth both in the basic education and college units. Looking at the numbers from the Office of Admissions and Aid, however, it is disturbing that only 2.2% of the total number of scholars in the University’s college unit are Lumad students receiving financial aid scholarships. Even at the onset of their scholarship applications, Lumad students are at a disadvan-

tage when they have to equally compete with students from more privileged backgrounds. Borrowing a term from anthropology, there is an absence of ‘positive discrimination’ for Lumad applicants as they have to apply for a scholarship category that is open to all. Apart from the scarce opportunities given to Lumad students, the University also suffers from issues of cultural appropriation in terms of its events and organizations. While the Ateneo Sidlak Performing Arts Collective (ASPAC), AdDU’s premier folk and indigenous dance company, claims to engage in research before it delivers performances, it has, for the recent years, neglected prioritizing field immersions for its members. Not to mention, the University’s propensity to appropriate Lumad themes in its formal events and gatherings—like dances, indigenous attires should not be worn haphazardly since these carry culturally significant, even sacred, meanings to Lumad communities. In fact, it is part and parcel of Lumad culture to hold rituals before anyone, especially an outsider, can perform indigenous dances or wear Lumad attires. With this, we see the dilemma that organizations which seek to repre-

sent indigenous communities are facing. Because most of their members are bounded within the walls of the academe, they may be limited from getting a sense of the real struggles of IPs. Ultimately, they may lose sight of how important certain cultural practices are to the Lumad when they neglect to experience the context in which these performances arise.

tegic planning; however, this does not mean that we should be complacent in our efforts to understand the people we claim to be helping—or else, these efforts may go in all the wrong directions.

On the institutional level, it is undeniable that AdDU has been able to actualize many of its thrusts for Mindanao and its peoples. For instance, the Mindanawon Initiatives for Cultural Dialogue continues to provide assistance to Lumad scholars throughout their college education. Professors in the higher education department, particularly for General Education (GE) classes, are also being encouraged to integrate a discussion of Mindanao in their lectures and an elective focusing on Mindanao’s IPs has been opened just last year.

Rethinking and revisiting what it means to serve Mindanao does not begin nor end in a three-day gathering. Rather, it is a constant process of discernment that we should all undertake if we are really serious about our commitment to help our home and its peoples. The least that we could do as an institution is to expand the opportunities given to Lumad students in such a way that they will no longer have to grapple with stiff competition. At the same time, we need to move towards a real appreciation of Lumad culture by recognizing the complexity of IPs and their lived experiences—far beyond that which is marked by aesthetics and entertainment.

While, from an academic perspective, this may appear like the University is making leaps in terms of its commitment to serve Mindanao, it is too early, and I daresay, too insufficient to call the revised mission and vision’s first stint a success. It is true that results may not be felt yet as it has barely been a year since the stra-

Ultimately, serving Mindanao entails establishing solidarity with the many peoples who call it home. Unless AdDU truly commits itself to the education of the Lumad youth and the respectful and empowering appreciation of Lumad culture, it will fall short of fulfilling its noble yet ambitious mission.

Check your privilege

Sofia Roena Guan TABULA RASA

t is day five of ‘self-quarantine’ and ‘lockdown’ at home, yet amid the public health crisis, I am faring just fine.

Because I am lucky enough to have a roof above my head, parents who have stable jobs, and a mindful mother who had stocked

groceries and meds a week before the community quarantine, I could simply tell everyone to follow the rules, and they’ll be okay.

accountability, especially in the midst of crisis, is necessary; and this does not equate to disobedience.

But I do not know the reality most Filipinos face in this pandemic – I do not know how they’ll struggle to make ends meet, because their livelihoods are at stake. Instead of staying at home as most of us do, they still have to get up every morning, commute and crowd despite the need for social distancing, and face the terrifying possibility of coronavirus infection. But I do not care because I am privileged.

Should we cut the government some slack when they were lax and lenient in handling the outbreak before it became a pandemic, just because there was only one confirmed case in our country? Should we be okay with the fact that they had months to prepare clear policies and structures to combat the infection, yet end up scrambling and heavily unprepared, providing vague and unclear measures instead?

This attitude is problematic. When we do not feel directly affected by the unclear, disordered policies, it is easy to preach about obedience. But demanding

As a result, the people were lax, too, but started panicking early March when the number of confirmed cases doubled almost every day. There were hoarding

and chaos everywhere. The ordinary worker does not know how he’s supposed to go to work and provide for his family when we’re advised to stay at home under this enhanced community quarantine. Should we not be concerned about the poor state of public health services, and the fact that the health budget was almost cut by ten billion pesos for this year? Our deteriorating health care system is already defined by a lack of proper and updated equipment and facilities, yet they do this. We even had to rely on testing abroad before U.P. scientists provided a cheaper alternative. And now, state-owned hospitals are calling for donations because they are running out of medical supplies. Should we simply sit back and

obey when instead of proactive medical solutions, they provided us with a military rule? These quarantine checkpoints proved to be inefficient, causing traffic and delay. There were not enough thermal scanners for the policemen and soldiers to use, and even so, adequate safety gear to protect them. These are the realities we allow to happen when we simply obey and not question. There is a need to be inquisitive, and dissent is necessary – otherwise, we become blinded by our own privilege and apathy. In urgent crises, we need to remind our public officials that we are their priority, and we deserve clear, effective policies.

News

UCCP Haran stands with Lumad, condemns attack by armed group Last January 27, paramilitary group Alamara forcibly entered UCCP-Haran Center, Madapo, Davao City, harassing the Lumad evacuees to return to their ancestral domain.

Ram Manlatican

he United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP) staunchly expressed their dismay after members of the paramilitary group Alamara forcibly entered the said institution last January 27, condemning the attack on 500 Lumad evacuees seeking refuge in the church compound.

Illustration by Fe Lourence Valente

Signed by the seven jurisdictional area bishops, the statement was released three days following the siege, which they believe resulted from the resolution of the Regional Peace and Order Council of Region 11 that seeks the immediate closure of the UCCP-Haran Center. While seeing the resolution as a pretext of the conflict, the church organization considered the forced intrusion as unlawful, during which the city police failed to apprehend the trespassers. “We find such resolution undoubtedly offensive against the Church and against those that advocate peace, justice and human rights—a clear violation of the principle of separation of church and state,” the statement read. Harassment At eight o’clock in the morning, a group of Lumad coming from Kapalong, Davao del Norte alongside the Alamara group arrived outside at the UCCP-Haran while possessing melee weapons. While the initial intention of the group was to make the Lumad evacuees return to their ancestral domain, UCCP Southeast Mindanao Jurisdictional Area Bp. Hamuel Tequis clarified that the act was considered a form of harassment since the intruders were reportedly armed. “Isog kaayo sila na gipangtigbas ang among koral ug gipangdaot among koral. So, kana violation ug harassment na. Ang mga bata ug ang mga naa sa sulod grabe ang ilahang kahadlok,” Tequis said in an interview. Similarly, Ptr. Daniel Palicte, conference minister of UCCP in Southern Mindanao Davao Chapter, questioned the lockdown during which around 150 police personnel surrounded the area. “Nagdala og sundang ang mga tao didto, nagtan-aw ra mo mga pulis. Wala mo naulaw?” Palicte told the police while being blocked at the gate of UCCP Haran. Moreover, Palicte also asked the police for the official court order of the operation to which the police failed to provide. In the said official letter, one of the calls that the church organization listed down was that the Philippine National Police (PNP) should “be held accountable for condoning the intrusion and for their inaction.”

However, according to Davao City Police Office (DCPO) Chief Kirby John Kraft, police personnel only came at the area to facilitate the negotiation between the two parties where the City Vice Mayor Sebastian Duterte acted as the mediator Davao City Vice Mayor Sebastian Duterte, together with Councilor Pamela Librado-Morato, arrived at the area late afternoon to mediate in the dialogue between groups. “Nag-mediate lang ko to make sure na dili magkagubot ang mga negotiation. Naa’y gamay’ng tension pero luckily wala ma’y samdan. Peaceful ang tanan,” the vice mayor said.

lubong ‘yung dalawang grupo,” Kraft responded. Kraft ordered the pullout of the majority of the troupe after clearing the area and after the other group left the vicinity. Few police officers were ordered to standby at the area to observe. Past crises

Nagdala og sundang ang mga tao didto, nagtanaw ra mo mga pulis. Wala mo naulaw?

However, the negotiation did not reach an agreement and had to sit again to further discuss the matter. When Kraft was asked to clarify about the “lockdown,” he said that the city police did not carry out any official lockdown. “Ang inano lang po natin ay dalawang grupo, malaki po, is to mapacify po sila. Kaya nga nagkaroon tayo ng maraming pulis dito ay ‘wag magkasa-

According to Abdul Rauf Sissay, Davao City coordinator of Bayan Muna Party-list, the harassment case was not new to the UCCP Haran sanctuary. In July 2015, former North Cotabato Representative and current Gov. Nancy Catamco, along with police officers, instigated the “hasty” decision in forcing the 700 Lumad displaced Lumad coming from Talaingod, Kapalong, and Arakan, North Cotabato.

Consequently, the then-congresswoman was declared persona non grata as she reportedly insulted the Lumad for calling their children “stinky” and for invalidating the legitimacy of the datus as leaders. Sissay posited that the attempt to coerce the Lumad evacuees to return to their communities did not succeed due to the help of allies, including the influence of then city mayor and currently Pres. Rodrigo Duterte.

“Ato pud na time, ubay-ubay pa pud ang ally, mga alyado sa mga bakwit ug UCCP Haran. And during that time mura'g “friend” pa sa mga Lumad ang Presidente, Mayor kaniadto nga si Digong Duterte. Kadto, wala nagmalampuson ug gitugtan na mag-stay thanks to Mayor Duterte adto na time,” Sissay acknowledged. However, Sissay feared that the transition of administration under Duterte changed the priorities for and treatments toward the Lumad group, particularly those who seek the church for sanctuary. “Karon pinaagi sa Executive Order 70 ni President Duterte also known as the Whole of Nation Approach nga nagatukod og national task force to end local communists armed,” he said. “Pinaagi pud ana Whole of Nation Approach mao ni ni ang nahitabo sa Haran nga pinaagi sa Regional Peace and Order Council sa Region 11 na resolution na ipasara ang Haran,” Sissay pointed out, claiming that the Lumad community in Haran become targets amid the rise of red-tagging in the country. Sissay further noted that the executive order “Whole of Nation Approach” along with the corresponding task force “institutionalizes” harassment and red-tagging of vulnerable groups and individuals. In February 2016, unidentified men reportedly set a portion of the Haran compound, which injured five individuals, including two children. Students’ response When the urgent alert on the forced entry in UCCP, students express their sentiments on the matter.

An engineering student under the Twitter handle @klntmtlc wrote: “While you enjoy your holiday, I want you to know that our Lumad brothers and sisters in UCCP Haran here in Davao are currently UNDER ATTACK INCLUDING CHILDREN AND INFANTS. PLEASE RETWEET SUCH POSTS AND HELP THIS REACH MEDIA NETWORKS AND HUMAN RIGHTS DEFENDERS #ProtectHaran” However, the Pinag-isang Lakas ng mga Progresibong Atenista (Piglasapat) released an official statement titled “Call for Vigilance” (related article: bit. ly/2VONFmV) in which the organization cited sources. “Calendaria (2018) and Imbong (2019) state that the two armed uprisings in Mindanao, the rise of Muslim secessionist movement and the armed communist revolution of CPP-NPANDF contributed to the displacement and marginalization of Lumads since they are caught in between the war between the state military and rebels,” the statement read. Apparently, the political organization misquoted the study of Regletto Aldrich Imbong. “This claim, at the very least, misrepresents the argument that I advanced in my article, and at worst, manifests a lack of genuine scholarship,” the author stated in his statement posted on Facebook and Twitter. “Here reverberates a not so scholarly contention but an archaic explanation of the military whenever individuals, sectors, and groups are ‘radicalized,’ or, in other words, ‘brainwashed,’” he added.

VOL 65 NO. 4

March 2020 issue

Online summer classes to push thru despite COVID-19 FROM PAGE 1 Based on the minutes of the meeting written by the incoming Samahan Secretary General Samantha Cayona, the admin believes online summer classes must proceed in order “to pay the workers especially those who are also in the lower class or maintenance personnel.” The online summer classes also incur the same cost for miscellaneous fees amidst online sessions. Following the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, AdDU issued emergency academic policies regarding the conduct of graduation ceremonies, entrance exams, and enrollment. After Davao City was placed under community quarantine last March 15, AdDU announced it will follow fully online sessions. Miscellaneous fees for online summer classes will stay the same amidst the online sessions. “It is unfair to charge students with fees that are not relevant in the online classes context. In pushing through with the summer class, the admin should keep the enrolment fees to the minimum and start cost cutting measures, bearing in mind that the students and their families are struggling financially because of the Covid-19 crisis,” Derek Dale

Nuñez, an Accountancy student, said, adding that this decision is not aligned with the principle of a “faith that does justice.” Meanwhile, for internship, onthe-job training (OJT) and practicum courses, program heads together with the Deans will identify alternative requirements. Cayona hinted OJT might be delayed or alternative classes may occur. The university has also complied in the cancellation of public masses after Archbishop Romulo Valles of the Archdiocese of Davao suspended all public masses in his archdiocese. Weekend masses will be livestreamed through AdDU webpage and Facebook. Our Lady of the Assumption chapel will be open with social distancing to be observed. Graduation suspended AdDU suspended the graduation, moving-up and recognition ceremonies for all its students as a precaution against the highly contagious COVID-19. Two days before the issuance, the city government encouraged schools to “accelerate their school calendar and postpone graduation activities to June 2020”.

The Graduation Day of tertiary students was originally scheduled for April 18. AdDU said it will announce the new schedules of the commencement exercises after the public health emergency is over. Following another memo, the school said safest schedule would be on the 3rd week of October considering the schedule of professional board examinations. Should the current situation not be lifted by the end of September 2020, AdDU said the graduation shall be conducted together with the batch 2021 on April next year. Jocelyn Ferraren, University Clinics Director, highly recommended the postponement. “Sa medical side, ang akin lang: bakit tayo magtake ng risk? Ano ang magiging repercussion pag ituloy natin (ang graduation)? Better safe than sorry,” she said. When asked if the postponement of the graduation was reasonable or not, Philippine Nursing Students Association (PNSA) AdDU Chapter president Kenneth Albores promoted following precautionary measures to stop endangering lives. “[That] is the wisest and rational thing to do,” he said.

The administration will be open to cancellation of the graduation rites upon request of the graduating class through Samahan.

Security guards started using infrared thermometers to those entering the campus to check for fever, one of the disease’s symptoms.

Precautionary measures

Last February 12, AdDU issued guidelines stating members of the Ateneo community who may have been exposed to COVID-19 undergo mandatory self-quarantine.

Last January 31, a day after the Department of Health confirmed the first case COVID-19 (then 2019NCov) in the country, AdDU started enforcing precautionary measures in response.

Last March 26, the SCB and the university administration conducted an online conference with regards to the online summer class.

Many major university events were cancelled such as Awitenista, PE night, and job fair, among others. After the first local transmission (fifth case) last March 7, AdDU began considering the suspension of the graduation rites. When asked how asymptomatic patients (those infected without symptoms) are monitored, Ferraren admits she does not know. “That’s really very difficult. Di natin masabi. Like you, you don’t have symptoms, and I don’t travel. How will we be monitored?” she said. As of writing, Philippines currently has 1,075 confirmed cases and 68 death toll, while 28 have recovered. Davao City reported its first four confirmed cases of COVID-19 last March 27. Top universities in the Philippines, among which include Ateneo de Manila University, have suspended their online summer classes.

University buildings secure – PPO

PPO assures that AdDU buildings remain secure, citing only surface level non-structural damages. Jamrell Vincette Buynay & Ryar Caasi

espite the visible damages received by the university buildings, specifically Canisius and Finster, after the 2019 earthquakes, Engr. Karl Vincent L. Galang, Supervisor of the Physical Plant Office (PPO), assured that the damages were merely non-structural and do not affect the building foundation. Just last March 26, a 5.2 magnitude earthquake jolted Davao del Sur. Galang explained that non-structural damages include cracks on tiles and walls. These damages are only surface level. Structural damage, on the other hand, is damage that involves a building’s foundation.

“When we say structural damage, may tinamaan na mga poste, tinamaan yung mga beams, kasi generally sa structure kasi, tatawagin nating structural, ang ibig sabihin nun is yun yung mga members na magre-resist ng mga loads,” he said. However, in a 2019 study conducted by Civil Engineering graduates Joffrey Gotamco, Diego Rafael Ma, and Vinno Sebastiene Serrano, the Canisius and Thibault buildings’ seismic vulnerability were assessed as high while the Bellarmine, Dotterweich, Gisbert, Del Rosario, Finster, and Weiman had satisfactory performance. The Community Center of the First Companions (CCFC) and Martin hall, on the other hand, had excellent seismic performance. Just last year, five major earthCONTINUE ON PAGE 7

lthough the Center Against Illegal Drugs (CAID) clarified that the students may refuse to undergo the Mandatory Random Student Drug Testing (MRSDT), they also emphasized that those who opt to decline the said drug test thus will be sanctioned for disobedience as noncompliance with the university policy. Under Rule VIII Section 20 of Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Memorandum Order No. 18, the student who has refused ‘shall be subject to appropriate actions in accordance with the school’s Student’s Handbook’ and as per AdDU’s, the student will face disciplinary actions for failure to comply but the said refusal will not automatically warrant a presumption of drug use or dependency.

N E W S

Sanctions to be given for drug test noncompliance

Disciplinary actions for failure to comply according to the student handbook will be followed while names of those who have been tested and aggregate test results will be submitted to CHEDRO. Story by Noriel Jeules Alisoso Illustration by Demi Althea Padillo student’s right to privacy, even risk their safety.”

We should look at it as a public health issue.

In line with this, CAID Director Atty. Romeo T. Cabarde stressed that the sanction for the students who refused will not be grounds for penalizing and dismissal but only for noncompliance.

He also opened the possibility of “students cheating their way out” of the drug testing and how this can only “be a waste of finances, labor, and time.”

“It won’t be even used for legal action or criminal prosecution kay mubalik ta sa atong framework nga we are doing this for intervention, but as I said, there might be disciplinary action because of failure to comply with a university policy,” Cabarde said.

“Both the government and universities should be focused on addressing the reasons why young people use drugs in the first place,” he added.

As part of CAID’s purpose of ensuring a drug-free campus, Cabarde also noted that the institution will do its best to convince the students who refuse to undergo the drug test or those who were tested positive to receive treatment.

Cabarde noted that the reason behind the failure of students to coordinate and cooperate with the institution is that the

Confidentiality at stake

“While these two provisions contradict each other in terms of the content of the reportorial requirements, information as specific as the names of those who have been tested and their summary results (such as the one required by CHED) or aggregate test results (such as the one stated in the AdDU guidelines) could potentially flag these students or the school for surveillance and thus put them at risk, especially amidst this climate of drug suspects being randomly killed,” Ulysses S. Cabayao, SJ, a faculty member of the Department of Anthropology, said. On the other hand, Cabarde emphasized that there is no violation of right to voluntary participation on the MRSDT as the Supreme Court has already decided that this is constitutional. “Kung violative ni, then this law has to be declared unconstitutional but the Supreme Court said there’s nothing wrong in mandatory drug

testing and there is no violation involved as we speak unless the Supreme Court makes another statement that this is a violation,” he said. He also acknowledged the concerns raised by parents during a general assembly with the parents’ association before the academic year opened regarding discretion of the results of the drug test. “The parents were also afraid because of the notion that if their children will be found positive, we will turn them over to the police, which is not the thing we will do because naa sa guidelines sa CMO (CHED memorandum) nga results are not subject to criminal proceedings,” Cabarde clarified. However, Political Science student Brian Unabia shared the same sentiments with Cabayao, stressing that the current mechanism for MRSDT “is just another reactive solution that could potentially encroach on a

With the said campaign being anchored to ‘criminal justice system,’ the director pointed out that the people under investigation are alleged victims of drug abuse; thus the solution must focus on drug demand reduction, perceiving the problem as a ‘public health issue.’ “We should look at it as a public health issue. For the longest run, atong pirmi madungog sa mga diskurso, it’s always been a criminal issue – prosecution, arrest, apprehension. So kani, we look at them as victims. Sabton nato nganong naa sila diha ug unsay nakapa-trigger sa ila,” he said.

CHED requires HEIs to submit a compliance report to CHEDROs, indicating the names and numbers of students who underwent testing.

Issues of health, stigma

“Maningkamot ta in our ways possible, since we have the Guidance, Center of Psychological Extension and Research Services na maka-help nga makaconvince siya,” he stated.

Section 6.3 of AdDU’s internal guidelines states that “aggregate test results shall not include nor reveal the identities of the subjects tested” in contrast with the CHED Memo which requires higher education institutions to submit a compliance report to CHEDROs, indicating the names and numbers of students who underwent testing.

“Why is there a need to include information as incriminatory as the student’s name? How will the authorities proceed with this information? In this current political climate, we are justified to be skeptical about this policy,” he said.

drug war of the Duterte administration that leans towards ‘criminal justice’ approach promulgates the idea of fear of punishment to citizens.

However, the director admitted that the ‘criminal justice system’ is still applicable in this issue in connection with the act of violating the law. “It has to be a balance between the ‘criminal law’ framework and the ‘public health’ framework,” he said.

Meanwhile, Cabayao emphasized that the effectiveness of MRSDT is yet to be experienced as several contradicting studies prove its consequences. He also recognized the university’s strategic move to implement the said policy “within the scope circumscribed by law and as much as its academic freedom allows.” “This evidence puts into question whether our implementation of MRSDT will realistically achieve its supposed intended effect, or whether this policy is just a political game intended to appease and play along with the current administration's war against drugs, and still retain our autonomy in managing our affairs and protecting our students from the bungled war on drugs,” he said.

N E W S

University buildings secure – PPO FROM PAGE 5 quakes struck across Cotabato and Davao del Sur regions. These earthquakes happened last October 16. These were then followed by magnitude 6.6 and 6.7 earthquakes last October 29 and 31, respectively. Two months after, Region 11 suffered consecutive quakes last December 15 and 18. According to Philippine Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), the earthquakes showed a gradual increase of magnitude from 6.3 to 6.9, with the December 15 earthquake being the most powerful. Engr. Evtri Tabangal, ,confirmed that there were no injuries or casualties from both students and employees. He also added that the university buildings were designed to withstand magnitude seven earthquakes. “Sa pag design ng building na ABOVE. Evident cracks appeared on pillars supporting Finster and Canisius Hallways after a series of earthquakes struck Davao City.

Ating seismic fault nasa less than 20 km so hindi yan mag gegenerate ng more than seven na intensity pag dito sa Davao manggaling.

ito, dapat it can sustain as high as 7 to 8.4 yan ang pinaka malakas na design. Sa atin sa Davao, nasa ano lang tayo yung pinakamalakas natin is 6.9,” Tabangal said. Built around the 1960s, the Canisius building has withstood calamities and is the oldest existing structure on the campus today. In the 1980s, physical facilities were upgraded and the Bellarmine Hall

BELOW. Despite the impacts, the University carried out repairs on the said structures partially damaged by the earthquakes.

Photos by Carmela Ariane Ko

The highest possible earthquake intensity that may happen in Davao is magnitude seven.

was reconstructed. “Ating seismic fault nasa less than 20 km so hindi yan mag gegenerate ng more than seven na intensity pag dito sa Davao manggaling,” he shared. Moreover, Tabangal stated that precautionary measures are taken seriously when it comes to such emergencies. “So what we did is everytime na may earthquake, we capitalize on it. Kumbaga, we learn from our mistakes,” he explained. The engineer then cited how the PPO left the seismic gap between Finster and Thibault as it is instead of connecting the buildings to

prevent them from crashing to one another during earthquakes.

tration would have postponed the exams anyway.

With these reports, University President, Fr. Joel Tabora, SJ announced the postponement of the Preliminary examinations last December 18.

“I think the students’ complaint was important for them to make that decision. But I believe they would have postponed the exams regardless if the students complained or not because everyone’s safety is always above any academic requirement,” she explained.

However, the postponement only happened after much clamor from the students, both personal and online. Aside from the physical scare, the earthquakes were also said to be mentally distressing for those who are about to take exams. Although the complaints contributed to the postponement, Ordona shared that the adminis-

Built around the 1960s, the Canisius building has withstood calamities and is the oldest existing structure on the campus today. In the 1980s, physical facilities were upgraded and the Bellarmine Hall was reconstructed.

N E W S

Amid cost-cutting, AdDU to impose 6 percent tuition hike

Due to the implementation of senior high school, the university had a hard time catching up with its operating cost. Jose Delviemar Albano & Bai Rehana An-an Sacandal

teneo de Davao University is now gearing towards a 6 percent tuition and other fees increase (TOFI) for the incoming school year 2020 – 2021 to begin the “partial recovery” process after incurring losses for the past four years. “Actually for this school year, we had drastic measures cutting costs, removing security guards and the number of heads. We closed down some gates and some buildings because the college for this school year is only half of the regular number of students,” Jimmy Delgado, the Vice President for Finance and Treasurer said. There are 5,400 students enrolled this school year compared to the last year population consisting of 8,500 students. The office had some difficulty in making their projections for this enrollment because of the K-12 transition period. The following school year will be the fifth transition, implying that there will only be three years in college. The proposal was submitted to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) already and has been endorsed by the board of trustees and students.

catch up with the operating cost. “But the good news is this coming school year will be the last school year with the K-12 transition effect because next school year 2021-2022, full na tayo. So, if it’s full we’re back to normal,” he siad.

More than 50% of the increase will be allocated for the compliance of Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBA) of the faculty and staff. According to the CBA, the salaries of the faculty and staff should increase at least by 3% which is the average inflation rate. The rest will be dispensed for the increases in expenses as three buildings will be opened again. “The increase in the tuition fee is not yet substantial enough to pay off for the increase of the salaries and benefits because kulang nga ‘yung number of students,” Delgado said. The whole campus will be opened next school year but the population is still at 70%. “That’s one of the main drivers bakit we have to increase, just to

Photo by Loraine Rubi

Delgado also mentioned that one of the driving forces for the TOFI is the increase in the scholarship budget to cater those qualified students who can not afford the university’s fees. “From 25 million this year, we increase it to Php40M. Kasi nga, three years na ang college so baka may mga new applicants but we still don’t know kung papasa sila,” he said. Transparency of records “Every year, we give a report on how much increase was received by the school from grade school to college. We make a statement and then we put how it was used, how much was the total amount received and increased, how much was given to this.

The increase in the tuition fee is not yet substantial enough to pay off for the increase of the salaries and benefits.

Allocation of TOFI

Classrooms not reserved for club activities are locked and students are prevented from using such during activity period as a means to cut operational costs incurred by the University.

“Aside from that, we make sure we give audited financial statements to SAMAHAN, kasi they are part of the stakeholders. We also give audited FS [financial statements] to the four unions,” Delgado said. The audited financial statements are public documents that are audited by the School of Business and Governance.

During the open consultation for the tuition hike, Rona de Castro, SAMAHAN Finance Officer suggested Finance Office to have other comprehensive ways, such as publicity materials, for the students to understand where their tuition was administered. TOFI for subsequent years Providing that the university is a non-profit institution without private sectors, there are ways to fund the increases in expenses, according to Delgado. “If somebody, like the government, will subsidize then we cannot increase tuition fee kasi nga may nagbayad para sa increase in salaries. Unless, walang gagawa nun, and magbabayad is ang students,” he said. Another way is a sudden massive increase of the number of students. “But that’s not sustainable be-

cause you cannot increase the number of students every year because wala ka ng classroom, teachers,” he added. However, because of the normalization of K-12, there is a projection that the increase for the subsequent years will not be the same as the past few years. “There is a big possibility that the tuition fee increase might be based only on inflation nalang or kung hindi inflation, there is a possibility

that the miscellaneous fee increase is based on inflation or wala,” he said. ‘Prevent increase’ Renz Lacorte, former SAMAHAN Secretary-General and President for SCB 2020-2021, believes that more than having a justifiable TOFI is the need to explore possible ways in pushing the administration to prevent such increase. “Because of an impending financial struggle, increase is necessary

More than 50% of the increase will be allocated for the salary increase of the faculty and staff.

to support operations, but in the context of next year or so, as admin said that we will eventually recover, we will stand again in not pursuing an increase,” Lacorte said, reconciling the need for TOFI and free education. However, Dominic Ang, current SAMAHAN president worries that the break even number of the students will not be met and adds that he is not for an unjustified tuition increase “I say no to unjustified tuition and other school fee increase,” Ang said, expressing that as long as students can benefit directly from the increase then he agrees with the increase. Ang also challenged the next set of SCB officers to ensure that the allocation is fairly used by the students and TOFI be monitored.

N E W S

Days after Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio implemented the community quarantine, fewer vehicles and people could be seen across Davao City, even the six-lane streets of Matina, one of the city’s busiest streets, experienced a rare light traffic on a weekday.

Photo by Joseph Nasser

DVO implements building closure ordinance Executive Order No. 16 specifies that all malls and mixed-use buildings except their supermarkets and some offices are required to close to follow social distancing. Allan Acera Jr. & Johanna Vaughn Dejito

ollowing the implementation of full lockdown in Davao Region, the local government of Davao City released an executive order regarding the closure of establishments last March 19. As stated in Executive Order No. 16, “all malls and mixed-use buildings except their supermarkets, pharmacies, banks, mall inhouse department stores, medical laboratories and dentists’ offices” are required to close from 11:59 PM of March 19. Same goes for “all internet shops, gaming stations, billiard halls, videokes, basketball courts, badminton courts, bowling alleys, movie houses, bingo outlets, e-gaming establishments, lotto outlets, kid’s playrooms, video arcades, spas, massage parlors beauty salons/parlors and carnivals or peryahan” from 5 PM of the same date. Duterte clarified through an interview in Davao City Disaster Radio DCDR 87.5 FM the importance of the said executive order and admitted that there is confusion as to the implementation. “Kani sila sa sugod wala man jud nato gipasirado pero nakita man gud nato na ikapila nata sige’g ingon ug stay at home sa mga tao pero nakita gyapon namo during inspection nga naa gyapon mga tao sa mga non-essential, entertainment, and amusement

areas,” she said which compelled the city government to impose such policy.

clothing shop situated in a mixed-used building, allows cash advances and advance salary for their employees.

As of March 19, Davao Region is in full lockdown which prevents anyone from entering the said region whether by land, sea, and air for fourteen days

“Customers and (wedding) coordinators are starting to call and inform us na cancel lahat ng events and they are asking for refunds. Aside from no income, we’re also considering refunds,” she said.

As a result, those who rely on these establishments for income are apprehensive. Affected store owners and employees Cherry Al-ag, Elysia Wellness Spa owner, admitted that although they will suffer a “negative income in the next months to come,” they will still be giving rice and food assistance for their employees.

The city will give PUJ drivers P11,880 as financial aid under DOLE's TUPAD program.

“Employees of around 100 persons were advised not to work since we stopped our operation. We enrolled them in the TUPAD program of the Department of Labor and Employment so they can access government intervention during this time of crisis,” Al-ag said. On the other hand, Mae Christine Yee, owner of Love and Styles, a

Computer store Tech A Byte owner Harold Abellana affirmed that the employees will still be receiving their regular rate amidst not working because their safety is the shop’s priority.

tance, the company released the salary for March without deductions and their prorated thirteenth month pay for January to March. “I also applied for the COVID-19 Adjustment Measures Program (CAMP) of DOLE. They will provide a one-time financial assistance equivalent to P5,000 to affected workers in private establishments that has implemented flexible work arrangements or temporary closures due to COVID-19,” she said. Mayor Duterte-Carpio highlighted that those establishments not mentioned are not required to close especially the restaurants but they are discouraged to accommodate dine-in customers. “Kanang dili mall pero suroyanan like Matina Town Square, Aldevinco, ug City Triangle, mao nang i-close.

Kung wala ka sa mga exemption sa executive order, wala kay labot sa i-close,” she said. Impact on PUJ drivers Davao City PUJ drivers are encouraged to enroll to the Tulong Pang-hanapbuhay sa ating Displaced/ Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) program of the Department of Labor and Employment. “The city will give PUJ drivers P11,880 as financial aid under DOLE's TUPAD program since ang ilang income kay affected sa pag obserba sa social distancing,” Duterte-Carpio said. Drivers that will qualify for this assistance are advised to practice social distancing among their passengers and regularly sanitize their vehicles. Meanwhile, Duterte-Carpio issued Executive Order (EO) No. 20 last March 23, providing additional guidelines in the implementation of community quarantine beginning 5 a.m of Thursday, March 26 until 11:59 p.m of Sunday 19, unless further extended, modified or withdrawn. With the new executive order, face masks are mandatory when going out in public and no one can go out in their residence except for those who will buy food, medicines, and go to the hospital.

Meanwhile, Chunks Pude, co-proprietor of Barracks Barber & Shaves, said they gave out rice subsidies and lent their employees some financial support. “This is our biggest dilemma. Our barbers work for commissions and tips from every client they cater,” he said. On the other hand, Sarah Kaye Tagonon of Mazenod Printing Press said that aside from the cash assis-

Aside from near-empty roads, stores and retail centers such as City Triangle were closed due to the memo enacted by the city government.

Photo by Joseph Nasser

10 Features A loud turbulent sound caught her ears, signaling yet another plane taking off. After ordering a cup of coffee, Gingging Valle immediately proceeded to a corner she spotted at Laguindingan airport and was eager to kill some time by finishing a story she was working on. Hardly had she taken out her notes when she sensed that something was afoot—she then noticed several men in plainclothes advance towards her. In what seemed like a blur, one of the men said they were serving her an arrest warrant. Unbelieving, she demanded to see the said search warrant but one of the men only held it aloof and did not allow her to read it. Visibly agitated, her voice got caught in her throat as she was then led out to a vehicle and her captors drove to destination she was never informed clearly.

Uncertainty enveloped her all throughout several hours of travel.

Sheltered and protected, her voice could hardly be heard.

Everything changed however, when Valle started her career path at the Ateneo de Davao University. “When I started at Ateneo, I was naïve, thinking that I’d only study and finish college for myself. But then, I wasn’t so,” she said. “Being men and women for others, such was what I learned as an Atenean, an Ignatius mantra that up to the time when I started out as staffer of Atenews I have kept in my mind and heart,” she added. In 1979, she became the Associate Editor of Atenews, the University’s official student publication. Since then, her encounters with different people from all walks of life and their life experiences exposed her to the different realities of Philippine society which was perilous at that time as it was during the height of Marcos’ Martial Law. Today, she believes that that episode in her existence was when her values flourished and the drive to break the silence began. Learning from the monstrosity of martial rule Under Marcos’s martial law, Valle recounted the vital role that student publications played in raising awareness among the public. This was the time her activism was awaken, as mainstream media was rendered

Although she was not physically harmed, the psychological and mental torture was more than she could bear, and yet she was surprised that she was able to keep her bursting emotions at bay. Released later at almost midnight on the same day she was arrested, Valle never truly felt liberated since then. She knew that although her innocence was proven, the psychological trauma and abuse she was made to undergo from that experience have haunted her waking moments, and even disturb her slumber every now and then. Once more, she feared, she was starting to lose her voice. “I was used to attend press conferences, cover news stories, do interviews where I was the one asking questions, but this time, I was uneasy being the one interviewed, in the spotlight and all cameras were focused on my face. It was unsettling,” she stated.

It was a fateful day, that 9th day of June, one that would change the course of her life forever.

Born to a big family inclined to the religious faith, Fidelina Margarita “Gingging” Valle had always been oblivious to the many realities of the world as a child. Sheltered and protected as the eight child of eleven siblings, she grew up as a small town girl, her voice could hardly be heard. Even in high school when Martial Law began, her innocence had prevailed as she lived in the outback town of, Malitbog, Southern Leyte where she was sent to live with her over-protective uncle physician.

at those people and curse them for taking away my time and my will,” she expressed.

Valle's harrowing experience was just but a “tip of the iceberg” on the surface of the many cases of harassment and intimidation against journalists and the press in general that continues to happen in the country. In 2018, roughly two years after the beginning of the current administration, the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) reported that the Philippines ranks first as the most dangerous country for journalists in Southeast Asia.

A fight no longer mine alone: Ging Valle and the hum for freedom After a harrowing experience in the hands of her captors, journalist Ging Valle continues the struggle for press freedom. Story by Rea Jean Cabahug Illustration by Fe Lourence Valente helpless after the clamp down. Rallies at the time were at their peak as people demanded for human rights to be upheld and civilian authority be restored.

ministration, classmates and friends she had personally known, either went missing or were later on found “salvaged” as the euphemism for murder was called.

It was a crucial part of history for the Filipinos to be heard, and it was not any different for Valle—her voice was growing strong. It was with a time when students like her in big universities in Davao City did not have qualms to leave their classrooms and join the huge marches out in the streets, she recalls.

A Case of “Mistaken Identity”? Not so.

“The ‘system’ was repressive, and they did not want to be criticized, nor their weaknesses pointed out,” she explained. Anyone who went against the ad-

Last June 9, 2019, Valle was waiting for her flight at the airport when she was arrested by men who claimed to be members of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and transported to Pagadian City. Throughout her arrest, Valle was denied her civil liberties as she was never given the chance to read her arrest warrant which she demanded, and only allowed to make one phone call. Her captors never gave a clear response to her

inquiries into the real destination of their travel. Uncertainty enveloped her all throughout several hours of endless travels along deserted roads until finally, after what seemed like eternity, she recognized the roads leading to Pagadian where she came from that early dawn. She was then brought to the CIDG Pagadian compound and waited still for several hours until some friends alongside local press finally came to see her by 10 o’clock in the evening. For Valle, it was the longest, most excruciating day that she’s ever gone through in her life. “Truth is, fear was the last emotion that I felt, as I was so angry and frustrated that I just wanted to shout

As a journalist, Valle has long since carried on her shoulders the responsibility of embodying the collective voices of the different sectors in society. She felt that the recent personal experience that she had has empowered her to speak up for those who would otherwise slack down. Breaking the shackles of cruel repression, Gingging Valle continues to voice her experience, heart sparking with rage each time she is reminded of that day, but now, in every breath she takes, she is convinced that her voice should be used to hum the tune of freedom. “These people should know that not all people that they pick on would be cowed in fear and run. If they can do it to me who have asserted my rights, how much more for unassertive people who could not, like the Indigenous Peoples, the farmers, the students, and other people that they victimize?” she emphasized. Although she knows that everything that had transpired already robbed her of the freedom that she used to have, she still finds solace in knowing that she is not alone in this battle. “It’s not my fight..,” she said softly but firmly, like a fading whisper in the cool September air. “It’s not my fight any longer. It’s everybody’s.”

VOL 65 NO. 4

March 2020 issue

New Carmen or Bust: Davao City’s landfill conundrum Now beyond its maximum capacity, Davao city’s landfill poses environmental and health risks while providing residents with their economic needs. site scavengers are children, a majority of which have already stopped schooling and preferred looking for money along the decaying garbage.

Roelle Geobe Bernardo & Brian Steve Garay

nder the cerulean skies and bright, scorching sun, an empty can flipped in the air as frisky kids struck it with tatty slippers. Faces were smudged, clothes were stained, yet the people in the vicinity still wore priceless smiles. Along with the ambiance was the stinking odor of rotten trash that overwhelmed the place. Buzzing flies can be seen in every corner jumping from one heap of trash to another. Huge trucks that carried tons of garbage roared along the roads en route to a nearby dumpsite, but there was a grave problem looming. Davao City’s landfill has already reached its limit; and drastic actions will soon be decided upon. This is the situation of the people living in New Carmen, Tugbok, Davao City, where the city’s sanitary landfill is located. Now in its ninth year, the New Carmen landfill has gained the attention of environmentalists for reaching its maximum capacity level and has caused alarm to health advocates for the multitude of risks that an unregulated dumpsite poses.

Mas nakatabang og naa’y basura kay kusog ang halin sa paninda.

Given that the children are part of 4Ps families, Bangkal believes it is alarming to have them labouring at a young age. What is more dangerous aside from their poverty and lack of proper education is that the children are at risk of dying, whether by sickness caused by the dumpsite or falling off of New Carmen’s cliff. The area has even been a site of grim, accidental deaths as a result of reckless driving. “Bisag miyembro sa 4Ps, pasagdan man sa ginikanan nga mangahig. Mao nang among ginalantaw karon kay bisa’g unsaon pag storya sa ginikanan, gahi rama’g ulo kay muingon ra man nga wala daw sila kabalo, mubangon ra daw kalit ang mga bata muadto sa landfill mamasura,” expressed Bangkal. A slew of alternatives

900,000 TONS ACCUMULATED SINCE 2016

A worsening condition According to Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Officer-in-Charge, Engr. Fortune De Castro, the landfill is evidently overstaying its welcome in the community. While the maximum capacity level should supposedly be from 700,000 to 800,000 tons, the landfill has already accumulated 900,000 tons of garbage since 2016. “This sanitary landfill is already full of rubbish or trash. Nasa full capacity na siya, kaya dapat by this time, nasa rehabilitation in closure na ang New Carmen kay mag 10 years naman siya,” he said. Due to the lack of space, Engr. De Castro emphasized that they opted to extend the landfill’s operations to an adjacent portion of land which was not supposedly part of the landfill’s contract. While the City Government is currently eyeing a land intended for another sanitary landfill, it has yet to purchase the plot as they are also considering the establishment of waste-to-energy facility in the city. As of the present time, it claims that the extension is the only viable solution to pacify the worsening condition. Nonetheless, De Castro also acknowledges the risks it might bring if the problem will not be addressed as soon as possible. Child scavengers in New Carmen With the current condition of the New Carmen landfill, the children are in the greatest form of danger. Carmen Bangkal, the Purok Leader of New Carmen, shared that some of the dump-

Infographic by Joseph Nasser

MAXIMUM CAPACITY

700,000 - 800,000 TONS

Some of the dumpsite scavengers are children They are at risk of dying, whether by sickness caused by the dumpsite or falling oﬀ of New Carmen’s cliﬀ

As a result of these stacking issues, CENRO is planning to implement a Waste-to-Energy (WTE) plant to convert Davao’s trash to usable energy, similar to the ones run in Japan. Unfortunately, this would still take a long time to materialize given the large amount of resources needed to build this project. This plan, however, is being opposed by environmental groups such as Ecoteneo.

“The city government is aware of the poor implementation of segregation and materials recovery at the household and barangay level. And even more pressing is the citywide lack of MRFs or materials recovery facilities. Of the 182 barangays in Davao City, only a handful or less than five have functional MRFs,” Santos stressed. Amid these concerns, New Carmen residents like Wilfreda Banyados have mixed feelings when it comes to the landfill. While she acknowledges that it may, to some extent, affect their health, she believes that it also enables them to generate income necessary for survival. As with most residents living in the vicinity of the landfill, Banyados earns a living through a small karenderia. To mitigate the heath risks, her products are all wrapped with cellophanes to prevent flies from coming into contact with the food.

More than just a cause of environmental concern, New Carmen has also become a symbol of inaction and greed over the years.

“I believe that siting a new landfill and supporting materials recovery and recycling in the city must be given priority instead of pushing the WTE or incineration plans of Davao City. Burning our solid wastes is a band-aid solution that is host to many problems such as public health and air pollution,” Carmela Santos, Director of Ecoteneo in Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) stated. On the other hand, CENRO is well aware of the threats of the project as De Castro details that environmental groups have not really understood the science behind all their criticisms. Despite the arguments raised by both sides, it is important to note that firstworld countries have abandoned WTE due to its costliness, among other concerns with respect to the environment.

Furthermore, De Castro called for the residents of Davao City to be more disciplined in the segregation of their garbage properly since, in actuality, the only things that must be deposited in the landfill are residual trash – these are wastes that can be re-used and recycled through the use of energy. Unfortunately, both biodegradable and non-biodegradable trash are thrown in the landfill which is one of main reasons why it has reached its maximum capacity quickly.

“Okay ra man. Naanad ra man pud mi. Mas nakatabang pud ug na’y basura kay dako-dako ang income kay daghan man tao so kusog ang halin sa paninda,” she said.

Meanwhile, Ecoteneo is once again voicing out on the issue of New Carmen. For instance, the environmental organization is very much aware about the informal sector that is dependent on the landfill, especially those in the business of materials recovery. They believe that continuing on with the WTE or incineration plan will only displace the marginalized people, just like Wilfreda, working under the blistering heat each day to earn an income for themselves and their families. More than just a cause of environmental concern, New Carmen has also become a symbol of inaction and greed over the years. With every delay in the search for a new sanitary landfill, the more dangerous it becomes to the environment and the lives of the citizens in the area. Sacrificing one for the other may not be the best possible solution as there is so much at risk. While the local government’s idea to push through with WTE could be a possibility, but at the same time, concerning alternative, forcing the people to relocate and lose their jobs is just as fatal. Given these pressing concerns that encompass health, income-generation, and environmental degradation, the situation of New Carmen should not be taken for granted by a government that so often benefits the mighty few.

F E A T U R E S

Eradicating plastic paradise The single-use plastic ban in Roxas night market has been a model for the city’s envi-friendly efforts, yet it comes at a cost to small-scale businesses. Roelle Geobe Bernardo & Alver El John Linaza

s dusk cloaked the horizon, chatters and murmurs enveloped the night market beneath. Assembling their own stalls as they quickly moved to prepare dishes, pour flavored juices on plastic cups, and roast barbeques on sticks, the vendors’ voices rang with persuasion. For years, this market has become a light of livelihood for them, whose primary needs are met by their arduous work each night on the bustling street of Roxas Night Market. The night market has long been an avenue of opportunities that allowed the vendors to survive amid the threat of poverty. Relying on disposable items, particularly plastic cups, gloves and straws, among others, the vendors thrived under a system of thrift and convenience. This degree of stability was threatened when the local government unit (LGU) implemented the Single-use Plastics (SUPs) ban, which was enacted under Ordinance No. 0361-10 or the Davao City Ecological Solid Waste Management Ordinance of 2009. In line with the LGU’s resolution to stand against the threat of global warming and climate change, the ban sought to reduce the effects of massive plastic consumption in the city, which later resulted to more local waste management and ecological issues. At the other side of the coin, however, are uncertainties as to whether the LGU is ready to advance such a move, especially in light of the possible price inflation, burdening vendors and consumers of the market alike. Plastics: The culprit to envi’s death The initiative to ban SUPs in the Roxas Night Market started when the Interfacing Development Interventions for Sustainability (IDIS), an advocate for the protection and management of South-central Mindanao’s maritime terrain, saw how the excessive usage and production of single-use plastics adversely affected the environment of Davao. When the city started facing strong typhoons and torrential floods, and when environmental groups started reporting how plastics were diminishing marine life in Davao Gulf, IDIS raised a proposal advocating against the consumption of non-biodegradable plastics. “Single-use plastics (SUPs) have been implicated in the deaths of marine life and in changing the habitat or environment of animals relying on the environment,” Carmela Santos, the Director of Ecoteneo, Ateneo de Davao University’s (AdDU) premier environmental group, expressed. In consideration of these reports and concerns, the LGU then took a bold move of implementing the ban at Roxas Night Market in September 2019. “The ban is just one of the means of the City Government to encourage industries to slowly refrain from

using plastic in their packaging and promote care for the environment,” Atty. Lawrence D. Bantiding, the acting City Treasurer and Co-chairman of the Night Market Management Team, explained. As a consequence of the implementation, regular inspections have been assigned to the Tiangge sa Katawhan Management Team who has been mandated to observe the vendors’ utmost compliance to the policy. According to Bantiding, removal is the repercussion to vendors who will violate the set rules.

materials for thrift and convenience. Since the declaration of the policy, for instance, vendors were expected to adjust from plastic to paper which has massively affected their earnings. “The implementation will require vendors to look for other methods of packaging for their products. However, I believe that the regulation is not oppressive since the objective is for the greater good of the public,” Bantiding asserted.

Mas nindot tong naa’y plastic kay mas dako among matigum.

“The City Government of Davao values the preservation of the environment that is why we are constantly exerting efforts to ensure that wastes, in general, are handled properly,” he expressed. Considering the huge implications of the ban, Atty. Banditing acknowledged that it is an indication of the city’s commitment to eventually transition to a plastic-free Davao. Small businesses burdened

While the ban has been perceived to be a resourceful step for the city’s environmental commitment, the ordinance had also manifested an impact to the small business owners who used to rely on plastic-based

Several vendors from the night-market, however, admitted that they are struggling to cope up with the local government’s recently implemented policy. “Mas nindot to’ng naa’y plastic kay mas dako among matigum. Karon gamay na lang among matigum,” Johaira Abubacar, a juice vendor, expressed.

“Among mga palitunon ga-taas pero wala ‘mi ga-taas ug presyo,” Irene, who runs a juice stand, as well, added. As vendors were now required to use paper-based cups, they were naturally compelled to raise their capital spending, since paper materials were more expensive than plastics. Initial-

ly, a fifty-piece package of 16-ounce plastic cups would cost 50 pesos. However, with paper cups, they now have to spend at most 120 pesos for the same number of items. Sustainability in question Meanwhile, environmental groups argue that the transition towards paper-based cups is an unsustainable alternative. Generally, the continuous production of paper is claimed to produce seventy percent more of air pollution. Contrary to the production of plastic bags, overall production of paper also required thrice the amount of water needed compared to plastic, escalating four times from the amount of energy required. In relation to this, the American Forest and Paper Association claimed that one rim of paper has the capacity to produce approximately forty-two kilograms of carbon dioxide gas, which evidently contradicts the government’s purpose to positively improve the critical development of our ecosystem. Additionally, the massive effect of paper-based materials is that they tend to produce harmful chemicals, such as methane, once disposed. Surely, the city’s willingness to become an advocate for the environment is a praiseworthy act in

ABOVE. With the implementation of plastic ban in Roxas Night Market, some vendors opted to use banana leaves as an alternative to cellophane to cover the plates they use to serve food. BELOW. Paper cups replaced the usual transparent cellophanes to pack fruits such as mangos and guavas.

Photos by Jessica Lanoza

itself. However, it is also important to guarantee that these efforts will not be misplaced and will not necessitate sacrificing one sector of society for the benefit of all. While it is true how we only have one planet, thus, we need to exhaust all means to save it for our and the next generations’ survival, our humanity compels us to refuse turning a blind eye to the plight of others, especially the less privileged. As much as possible, environmental efforts should be grounded on the premise that the welfare of both the environment and human beings of all social classes are considered—then and only then can we say that policies such as the Roxas SUPs ban deserves full and unwavering support.

Highlight

Stripped away from refuge With the recent siege of UCCP Haran, the political and social issues facing the Lumad are again brought to the fore. STORY BY

Brian Steve Garay PHOTOS BY

Julien Jame Apale & Jeni Anne Rosario

Highlight Tension surged at UCCP-Haran compound last Saturday, January 25, following an attempt to barge through the evacuation center by tearing down the compound's walls by Lumads claiming to be relatives of evacuees in the center to get them to return to their communities. The Pasaka Group Confederation of Lumads claimed that the alleged relatives were members of the Alamara, a "military-backed paramilitary group."

he Lumads taking shelter at the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP) Haran living in normality as several women tended to young children and kids played games in the early morning of the 25th of January 2020. What they did not expect would be a traumatic encounter later that day when the paramilitary group Alamara, carried with them tools of hate to tear down the walls that gave the Lumads sanctuary. Spiritual ministers and reporters were barred entry, while the police merely watched from the sidelines. This act of harassment followed a resolution from Davao’s Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC-11) to close down UCCP Haran, including the Bakwit schools that had provided education for Lumad children. Amid these times when Lumads are continually being exploited, the UCCP Haran closure is another nail in the coffin for the peace and harmony the Lumads have strongly asked for in several years. “UCCP Haran was first built for its mission to help the life and works of the church and to all people seeking help. It was declared a sanctuary of peace, especially to the deprived, exploited, and abused members of society,” Bishop Hamuel Tequis, the assigned Bishop in UCCP Haran, said. “Nianhi ang mga Lumads diri since 1994 tungod sa harassment ng mga paramilitary ug army,” he added. Ever since 2015, Bishop Tequis worked day and night to assist the Lumad people in their search of being free from harm and abuse. He related that this problem stemmed all the way from foreign companies mining and logging the homes of the Lumads. Military groups and even Alamara were sent to do their masters’ bidding in an effort to drive away the innocent people from their lands. In fact, harassment against the Lumads sheltered at UCCP Haran go as far back as July 2015 when the military, anti-riot police, and Alamara stormed the compound. With fierce weapons, the combined might of the police, military, and paramilitary groups bloodied several tribesmen

UCCP Haran was declared a sanctuary of peace, especially to the deprived.

protecting the Haran gates. The terrified Lumad women and children were then safely evacuated in a room inside the compound. This was soon aggravated several months later on February 2016 when witnesses observed an object being thrown at the vicinity of the compound thereby causing an explosion in the dormitories. Five Lumads were hurt, including two children who had suffered burns. They were taken to the hospital, but it is said they have been denied proper attention. Making matters worse in present day, local officials from around Davao region recently supported a resolution which would forcibly shut down operations in UCCP Haran. Leading the charge were Davao Del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib and Davao Oriental Governor Nelson Dayanghirang. The former believed the Lumads were exploited by communist rebels, while the latter saw that the center abused the rights of the IPs. Col. Kirby Kraft, chief of the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) was also present to secure peace and order. While Col. Kraft stated that “the

VOL 65 NO. 4

March 2020 issue

police were trying to reach a win-win situation with the Lumads”, several members of Alamara defended their side of breaking down Haran’s walls. According to members of Alamara, they were demanding to take their relatives situated inside UCCP Haran back to their ancestral lands, especially in Talaingod. “Didto sa Talaingod, naa na mi suporta sa gobyerno. Nagtabang man gani ang mga sundalo sa among mga eskwelahan. Naawa lang ko kay murag gikulong sila dinhi. Dili pud sila pagawason,” expressed a Datu affiliated with the Lumads in Haran. With sweet words, Gov. Jubahib had also promised new housing for the Lumads to live in, as well as education and livelihood, but the indigenous people stood their ground as they have had enough of all the harassments and abuse. As a result, the Lumads rejected the governor’s offer of protection citing that they wanted safety from groups such as Alamara. “Ang ibuhat unta ng RPOC-11 ay magconduct ng mga peace dialogue kay naa may problema. Kalinaw man ang among gidamgo, ang among panandoy. Hisgutan unta kung unsay maayo sa mga Lumad na makabot nila ang kalinaw at kanato diri sa nasod,” stated Bishop Tequis. The UCCP Haran incident last January is just a small piece of a larger puzzle that has affected the lives of

Davao Police Chief Col. John Kirby Kraft ensured that police presence during the armed-attacks were only for safety and security. Upon interview, the police chief also claimed that there was no lockdown, contrary to what the students and Lumad evacuees reported.

Kalinaw man ang among gidamgo, ang among pangandoy.

many indigenous peoples across the Philippines. Be it facing death at the hands of Filipino fellowmen or witnessing their precious lands stripped off of its natural wonders, the Lumads have become powerless to stop all these against the government. Where once the Lumads lived in peace with the environment, profit and capitalism now thrive. Furthermore, the handling of the Haran incident presents how little those in power care about the lives they trample on. As the boys in blue silently allowed Alamara to take apart the Haran gates with bolos and bolt cutters, the issue of security is questioned. Are the police more concerned about pleasing their government friends than preserving peace and safety for all people in society? And what of the journalists arrested for speaking the truth? Are they not allowed to do their jobs? “Ang gilauman namo ay makapag-uli ang mga tawo diri sa evacuation center nang hapsay at matuwag pud ng gobyerno sa tiunay na pamaagi ang kaning mga panawagan na gikan pang 2014 sa pagpull-out ng mga militar at paramilitar sa komunidad ng mga Lumad. Labi na pud ang ang pagbalik sa mga eskwelahan ng gisaraduhan sa AFP,” said Datu Mentroso Malibato, one of the Lumad’s tribal leaders. With the Lumad members of Haran facing frequent harassments from their kin and bureaucrats alike, the Lumads are losing their sense of security in a place meant to be their sanctuary. The IPs more so now than ever need all the help they can get from the people of Davao if they are going to be truly set free from the grasp of invaders and exploiters. For decades, Lumads and other indigenous people live in fear as they have become lowly victims of military control, economic power grabs, and political machinations. The cycle of violence happens so often for these people that the quest for being emancipated from injustices become a tougher uphill battle. UCCP Haran’s ordered closure is merely a minute issue of an extensive human rights and environmental concern. If Filipinos continue to turn a blind eye to these grievances, then the IPs who have long been in our islands for hundreds of years may soon disappear, and along with them, their rich cultures.

Montage

The Ateneo Fashún Left with no choice but to comply to the dress code, students are boxed within the guise of professionalism.

Katherine Ann Doncila

right sun beams glided sharply from the windows. The rectangular mirror angled towards the nook of the wall displayed a reflection of an Atenean. Long straight hair the color of strawberry rested against her rear, her face covered strategically with color. With pride, she sported a dragon on her right arm, swirling with powerful hues. Right on her ear were silver dots, more like the evening stars than earrings. Her breath hitched, however, as a thought made her pause; eyes wide in alarm. The rectangular, white tarpaulin established at the entrance of each gate sections of the campus replayed in her mind like a music on repeat. Vivid illustrations of the clothes not allowed to be worn inside the campus plagued her brain like a disease. Her back slumped upon looking back at her reflection. The favorite blue trousers that hugged her body perfectly was sadly ornamented with long pensive rips; her top, prudently bought along a thrift-shop, failed to conceal her long limbs. The smile she sported earlier dimmed as she gave herself a once over: it is time to change. Dress Code 101

campus grounds. These are strictly implemented and regulated by the school wherein a violation of this rule is liable to be punished by the Office of Students Affairs (OSA). While the students conform to this rule, they can’t help but ask, what is really the purpose of the dress code? For Mr. Akeem Fabila, a sociology professor in AdDU, a dress code is a rule executed by an institution to foster a safe and disciplined surroundings. “In the case of the university, the purpose of a dress code is to promote a more serious school environment and to avoid any form of bad behavior related to appearance or attire,” he explained. Being physically present in the university, however, the student body is strongly compelled to follow the dress code to make the environment conducive for learning; further, it exists to recognize and respect the different religious denominations present in the university.

It promotes order and professionalism, pero ma-limit ang freedom of expression.

It is but a common sight to behold inside the campus the different outfits showcased once a week. Free from their uniforms, the students would flaunt their tastes and styles in fashion enthusiastically; but really, these are done under strict limitations.

While the university allows its students to dye their hair, wear tattoos and sport piercings, the clothes being worn to school is strictly regulated by the Office of Student Affairs with specific descriptions. Wednesdays, then, in Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU), means that students are free to wear their casual clothes away from the usual all white uniform for women and the blue polo and khaki pants for men. For the security personnel, however, this is the ‘Watch Out!’ day. Their eyes, trained like hawks, are aimed directly to the student who might have their clothing interests out of place. A Wednesday, the bane of all fashionable clothes there are, is also quoted as: Dress code day. Ripped jeans, miniskirts and shorts are just a few examples of the type of clothing that are not allowed inside the

“The dress code upholds certain respectability and students are non-victimized of what they wear,” Ms. Theresa Salaver-Eliab, Director of the Office of Students Affairs (OSA), said. Undeniably, as the dress code is put into action, this has become a concern to the students. Affected by this regulation, Patricia Calanza, SAMAHAN Students Rights Director, shared her insights on the matter.

“It promotes order and professionalism, pero ma-limit ang freedom of expression. Ayaw i-limit ang student na maglearn inside the classroom just because nagsuot siya ug open toe sandals, ripped jeans, shorts and skirts,” she expressed. Likely so, Calanza mentioned that the SAMAHAN is doing its best to promote a safer space for the students and support student empowerment. “Apil sa mga plans to create a board resolution ang pag abolish or pagrevise sa dress code. Siguro mahuman siya after sa Forward Planning Meeting sa 2nd sem, since dira man gud na ang time na magbuhat ug board resolutions ang SAMAHAN,” Calanza said. The OSA put their foot down in connection of the students’ constrained freedom of expression, however. “Freedom of expression is a guaranteed right. But the school also has the expression of academic freedom that regulates what the student could wear inside the institution,” Atty. Ira Valenzuela, OSA Assistant Director, said. Students’ Renounced Freedom

Illustration by Maria Cyra Jane Dealca

Sometimes linked on the subject of the dress code policy is the seemingly unfair treatment between the students and the teachers. With no uniform to speak of, the faculty, staff and administration are free to wear the clothes they want – as they please. This freedom being spoken has been long ago arrested from the students, and while the student body is following the rule set by the university, they can’t help but feel bothered by how some of the professors present themselves in class. If the students are regulated by the OSA and are expected to follow the dress code policy, are the faculty, staff and administration subjected to the same rule? According to Atty. Niceforo V. Solis, Director of Human Resource Management and Development Office, the employees of the university do have a dress code but not as restricted as regulated by the OSA for the students. “Like students, employees are also expected to follow the dress code policy of the university that is found on the employees’ manual. They are expected to wear decent, appropriate clothes that is deserving of the prestige and beauty of the profession and of that of the university. So if students are expected to follow a certain policy, we also expect the same thing from our employees. And even more,” Atty.

Solis expressed. Still, unlike the specific rules arranged by the OSA to be followed by the students, the employees of the university, while subject to a dress code themselves, are freer to wear the clothes they want.

obstacles and can continue crossing the gateways of the school towards the classroom. While they do so, it is a realization that would unconsciously cross their minds. What if the dress code was non-existent? Is there a future possibility that it will be completely gone?

“We are dealing here with professionals, we leave it to their judgment as to whether or not the clothes that they wear are appropriate and deserving of the profession that they have. It’s a general description of what is appropriate, of what is decent,” Atty. Solis continued.

For Students Rights Director, Patricia Calanza, this is a no and at the same time a yes.

While the students continue to observe silently among themselves, comments are shared about the apparent unfair treatment being shown towards the students and the teachers. If professors are free to discern on their own what to wear every day in class, why can’t the institution extend the same courtesy to its students? The uniform and dress code might exhibit respectability externally; but sometimes it can be described as a social construct meant to delude the latter.

Meeting half-way to provide and cater for the students’ needs is a well-established fact. Listening to the clamor of the students and doing something to actually meet these needs is crucial. As per Ma’am Eliab’s statement however, the removal of dress code won’t be possible in the near future. It shall evolve slowly due to the many changes, but it shall stay to protect the other stake holders in the university.

Prospects for the future The dress code policy seems to be an engraved compact done both by the students and the administration upon entering the campus. If observed diligently by the students, they face no

“For me there is no need to remove the dress code, but I believe there is a strong need to revisit and alter some provisions under the policy.”

Indeed the problem in removing the dress code has circulated for years now. It is believed that the dress code constructs a safer, protected community for the students, faculty and staff. The truth remains to be said, however. How can it be safer community, when its students are scathe by the lack of emancipation?

VOL 65 NO. 4

March 2020 issue

What empathy can teach to AdDU’s Sui Gen leaders

light of AdDU Sui Generis, Fayloga further highlighted that all AdDU students are humble beneficiaries of these teachings. As Sui Generis leaders, they are expected to hopefully imbibe the essence of being men and women for others.

For Sui Generis leaders, learning beyond forums and workshops might make all the difference.

Training leaders for Mindanao

Roelle Geobe Bernardo

common dilemma for most leadership advocacies concerns the concept of translating words to deeds. In some contexts, leadership organizations are oftentimes anchored on the difficulty of putting one’s money where one’s mouth is. At the horizon of this predicament usually rests idealism where actually living the lofty concepts of leadership is prevalent. It will seem like writing something on the seashore, where, anytime, the markings may be erased by the thrashing waves. Thus, it will go futile. Along with the prevalence of the issue on concretization, comes the lack of engagement towards

the people student leaders claim to be helping. Some aspiring leaders, while equipped and driven with strong advocacies, are only confined to experiences within workshops and trainings while having little exposure to the harsh realities of the outside world. Although lessons learned within the four corners of the classroom cannot be undermined, these issues also raise the question of what it means to be a true leader, especially in the context of the campus. Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) prides itself in a brand of leadership called AdDU Sui Generis that etymologically means “one of a kind” leadership. Its core advo-

cacy is to serve Mindanao and the common good by seeking for truth through robust research. It highlights the concept of a leader who is edified with University values anchored on the University’s mission and vision. Lunar Fayloga, SAMAHAN Moderator, elucidated the concept behind Sui Generis Leadership. “AdDU Sui Generis Leadership is connected to the vision and mission of the University which is integrated to the formation programs both curricular and non-curricular activities. The recipients of these are the students who are University educated and are expected to make use of their talents, skills, and academic preparation for the promotion of social justice for the common good,” he said. Seeing the bright

Fayloga emphasized that there are trainings conducted annually among student leaders, foremost of which is the AdDU Sui Generis Leadership Camp. As an avenue of building a ladder for student leaders to develop competence, commitment and passion to lead, these trainings are envisioned to bring out ethical values that would help them establish a morally firm kind of leadership. However, behind these excellently crafted concepts are issues on how a certain idea will be put into actuality. These have challenged the vision of AdDU Sui Generis leaders and have raised questions about whether they only remain on the tip of the tongue or will actually be translated into actions. As such, conducting trainings without actual exposure with the kind of people they claim to be helping raises doubts of whether their interventions are geared towards solving the actual problem of the community or are based solely on their ideas of certain societal ills. Renz Lacorte, SAMAHAN President-elect, admitted that at some point, the vision of Sui Generis Leadership constitutes high ideals. There are instances that the concepts of the said leadership are guilty of failing to put these visions into actual deeds.

Beyond ‘flawless’ leadership The actualization of values in AdDU Sui Generis leadership, moreover, is far from flawless. Many times, students who identify as Sui Generis leaders have encountered allegations regarding the sincerity of their service. Student leaders from one of political parties of AdDU, the Pinag-isang Lakas ng Samahan ng mga Progresibong Atenista (Piglas), for instance, have been associated with power monopoly in the student government. In the recently concluded Samahan Central Board (SCB) elections, Piglas dominated the roster of candidates, of which seven out of eight positions, including the top three, hailed from the said party. While, Bahaghari, the rival party, acknowledged that it was their choice not to compete with Piglas on certain positions (thus, Piglas’ monopoly of power in terms of elected positions can be debunked), the incumbent SCB officers’ appointment of associate positions to fellow party members shows how service can sometimes be superseded by personal interest. “I think this political scenario challenges us to get more students involved in the political processes. I also see this scenario in two explanations. Either the dominating party stayed in the office, and now unopposed because they are too efficient in their works or in the other side, student apathy continues to rise in the community,” Lacorte stressed.

The actualization of values in Sui Generis leadership is far from flawless.

“On the issue of questioning the concreteness or how we translate Sui Generis into action, I think the program is apologetic enough to recognize that sometimes goals are not met and rhetoric are always delivered but are not really concretized,” he expressed.

Contrary to the issue on idealism, however, Lacorte does not think that student leaders become ineffective because they are not exposed behind the corners of rooms. “I do not totally agree that the concept of AdDU Sui Generis Leadership is fluid, vague, and just in there at the bubble since it is working. It is in the ground the moment that you see someone being able to engage into dialogue with other culture and states,” he expressed. Nevertheless, Fayloga insists on the vital role that ideas play in leadership. He believes that, like maps, ideas serve as a navigation which directs leaders to fulfil their destiny. “Ideas serve as guideposts. These are our desires that hopefully, our students will live up to being AdDU Sui Generis leaders,” he said. While both Lacorte and Fayloga recognized the challenge of walking the talk, they firmly asserted that those who are involved in running organizations should deliver their visions into actions. Further, that acting upon certain societal ills should be grounded on actual experience with communities.

Illustration by Mykiesha Sta. Ana

Amid the controversies surrounding Sui Generis leaders, the lesson that can be gained is that leadership does not only revolve around serving the whole studentry and imbibing the principle of being men and women others. It also entails ensuring the continuity of vibrant democratic processes, one of which is giving meaningful choices to the voters. At the end of the day, student leadership in the university, just like other forms of national and even global leadership, should be grounded on democratic ideals. This means that both student leaders and the studentry must share the responsibility of valuing participation and combating apathy. Valuing these ideals also necessitates leaders fostering in themselves not only a capacity to serve, but also an empathy to understand other people. While it is generally agreed that leadership is a noble feat, the weight and influence of such an undertaking also invites aspiring leaders to reflect on their roles and the significant action that it requires for them to fulfil their ideals. Among the myriads of individuals dreaming to be leaders, only few are ever given the chance to serve. In this sense, leadership should be embraced with commitment and a steadfast honesty towards its visions in order to give every ideal what it deserves—life and justice.

18 MAZE

Diversions CROSSWORD PUZZLE

START

FINISH

ACROSS

ANSWER'S FOR THE LAST RELEASE'S GAMES

DED: COVID | YVES MATHIEU AFRICA & MARIA CYRA JANE DEALCA Ded, wa na miy klase kay basig mukalat sa amua ang covid-19

Ka maayo ba!

Ambot asa ko mas masad... kanang wa koy baon or di nko kalaag

NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION | DEMI ALTHEA PADILLO

1- Sheath 9- The three sisters in Greek mythology who shared one eye and one tooth 11- Overexaggerating 13- Group 14- Greek, meaning “two,” “double” 15- League of eight elite colleges in the U.S. 17- Doctor 18- Present tense, third-person singular of be 19- A long, thin bony fish 21- What you do with a broom 24- COVID-19 26- International Accounting Standards

27- Emergency room 28- Most populous city in California 32- Not yes 33- Feeling ill, unwell 35- Spanish for “yes” 36- Sun, sand, beach 38- Worn to prevent coronavirus infection

DOWN 2- Computer graphics 3- Versatile performing arts company of AdDU 4- A character class in Dungeons and; Dragons 5- Drink moderately 6- All American Wrestling 7- a Latin prefix, meaning “again” 8- A freshwater fish 10- Speech defect 12- A Portugal city known for its canals navigated by colorful boats 14- The double dagger symbol 16- British slang, “you’re” 20- A Chinese surname 22- Wisconsin 23- Body part for hearing 24- To give outlet to thoughts or emotions 25- A monster loot item found in caves in Stardew Valley 29- ASEAN Center of Military Medicine 31- A shipping company in

IS LOOKING FOR CONTRIBUTORS Submit articles or essays you wish to get published in our tabloid or website at: atenews@gmail.com

Singapore 33- State University and College 34- A species of large parrot found in regions of New Zealand 36- San Antonio 37- Revaluation surplus

VOL 65 NO. 4

March 2020 issue

BARYO TINYO | MARIA CYRA JANE DEALCA

SUDOKU

TYPES OF STUDENTS AFTER FINALS ARE OUT | MYKIESHA STA. ANA

SEXY SURPLUS | MARIA CYRA JANE DEALCA

BACKPAGE ANTICS | CARLO ISIAH ESCARDA

e y o n d

e w s