Bagwis AY 2023-2024 First Semester

bagwis.

FIRST SEMESTER 2023 VOLUME 43 | ISSUE 4

the official student publication of Mindanao State University General Santos City

This is Minda... now?

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bagwis editorialboard

editor-in-chief associate editor

jefferson quipit herkurt tamba jasmine joy panes managing editor adrian joven circulation manager kimbian lim

departmentheads news editor lynxter leaño opinion editor leonard tucjayao feature editor mia dorothy marcos sports editor niel zsun john vega head cartoonist louise abing layout director kevin asombrado photo editor krishtine rivera head videographer clarenz caballero

publicationstaff news writers

maria nicole silva

trainees news writers opinion writers feature writers

sports writers cartoonists

layout artists photojournalists videographers

opinion writers

herkurt tamba jasmine joy panes feature writers ronajean lavado jefferson quipit sports writers berjan pagadatan kimbian lim cartoonists lyle jome dela madrid sharif ryan beldia layout artists krisczer dave david tycoon james flores photojournalists adrian joven katrina elises ashley loyloy hidden avila john ross sambanan videographers gwyneth lubaton krizza maningding louise jordan rhynchielyne melgar miles uchi

lourenz loregas ian villacencio guia rebollido daniella doce aljim kudarat cathylene bulado keziah cariño krystel lubaton leslie payongayong joseph carl estrera vaness villafuerte ma. angelica pio micha pancho jezrah gamutin jewel tapel muhamad miras denzel jade caluyong ylen criz balanon john russel camia rayjie carillo jibrylle mohammad christian alburo jared adlawan alsimar ibrahim

editor’s note As a student studying in what is branded as a ‘national peace university’, exploring the narrative of Mindanao is vital for gaining insights into our nation’s complexities. It fosters critical thinking about regional difficulties like seismic disasters, threats to journalism, and institutional issues by acting as a real-world case study. This investigation fosters a sense of accountability by making us consider our part in resolving these problems and encouraging resilience and unity in our multicultural country.

JEFFERSON QUIPIT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

table of contents 01

COVER

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EDITORIAL BOARD EDITOR’S NOTE

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TABLE OF CONTENTS ABOUT THE COVER

04-05

MAIN EDITORIAL What is peace now?

06-07

NEWS GEARING TOWARDS DIGITAL ERA: MSU GenSan to ease long queues through smart buildings

08-09

NEWS Incomplete gym to resume construction in 1st quarter of 2024

10-11

NEWS MSU-GenSan heightens security after MSU-Marawi bombing incident; safety concerns worry MSUans

12-13

COLUMN Unflattering Familliarity, Recalibrate recurring GEC course narratives

14-15

COVER STORY This is Minda... now?

16-17

MSULOGY

18-19

FEATURE Aruga ng Amuma: Embracing Diversity, Carrying out Inclusivity

20-21

FEATURE - SPORTS Resilience Amidst Shattered Grounds, Sports is a MASTS!

22-23

SPORTS NEWS MSUSAA navigates safety concerns amid instability; MSU-GSC athletes undeterred despite postponement

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about the cover This is Mindanao, now?

The cover is a commentary on the events that transpired in our motherland prior to late 2023. It questions the once vibrant promises of prosperity and dreams against the harsh backdrop of seismic tremors, shadows on journalistic freedom, and tragic incidents within institutions meant for peace.

Is this Minda... NOW? A whispered inquiry challenging the very essence of the promised land. Amid economic recession, the call to resilience echoes, emphasizing that if Mindanao falters, we all stand on the precipice. The cover urges unity, resilience, and action—a collective effort to reclaim the promises that once adorned our skies and secure the peace of our motherland.

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BAGWIS

Editorial

FRAGMENTED into (PEACE)s

Cartoon by Lyle Dela Madrid

P

eace is known not by the beholder but by those who truly live in it. The way in which different campuses of the Mindanao State University (MSU) distinguishes in between perception and actual experience of peace, given the recent December 3 tragic bombing incident in MSU-Main campus in Marawi and the subsequent bomb threats that rippled among other campuses, gives but one insight into ‘Peace’ as a status quo. Peace, as it is known within the context of MSU, is in fragmented pieces.

Last December 3, two suspects entered a Catholic mass being held in the Dimaporo gymnasium of the MSU main campus in Marawi. What followed next are four deaths and 50 left injured, as well as the massive damage of an educational institution’s foundation built on the purpose of resolving the ‘Mindanao Problem’: a dire problem involving violent extremism, armed conflict, and underdevelopment in the socio-economic and political aspects among the Mindanaon people. Amidst the statements of grave condemnation and condolences for the families of the deceased, it is during this situation in which scrutiny into proactivity must be called upon. At a time when peace should have reigned, one must take a step back. Where, and what, is this ‘peace’ that used to be?

Peace is a state, in which there is no unrest, no disturbance, and no war. In the absence of disturbance yet in which the air of paralyzing fear for one’s life lingers, however, a period of palpable

silence in anticipation for the worst is a degradation of peace and all the paths taken before in order to achieve it. In the center of the recent bombing tragedy, MSU-Main, in accordance with Memorandum No. 294-OP, classes were resumed on December 11, 2023, nearly a week after an incident that took lives and forever changed others.

Despite all other clamors from student organizations and colleges alike, law enforcement and military were deployed to sweep the premises for potential threats, and holding classes and any other activity within the campus were given the green light.

In the other campuses of MSU System, meanwhile, to which the echoes of the news of death and injury amidst a supposedly peaceful weekend turned hellish has reached, bombing threats spread; screenshots of dummy Facebook accounts warned students of the alleged incidents that shall take place, which was what transpired among the students of

MSU - General Santos City Campus.

The actions that were taken included the implementation of Comprehensive Safety and Security Measures in the University, via Memorandum Order No. 86-23C, effective immediately as of its release by the Office of the Chancellor on December 5. Increased visibility of law enforcement within the campus, limitation of entrance and exit points, thorough inspection of entering constituents’ belongings, among others, all to be implemented until further notice. Unfortunately, just like the implementation of these measures which should have been the standard all along, the university’s safety within this period is also only kept until further notice. Measures to ensure peace will be kept until deemed necessary, and then everything will be back to square one wherein another catalyst must take place to remind everyone of the fact that their circumstances can never be completely, truly ‘peaceful’ nor safe.

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The previous comprehensive safety and security measures were only a result of recent incidents and not a previous norm within the campus.

Granted, various constraints of resources, especially funding and manpower, may point towards the infeasibility of long-term or permanent implementation of the security that MSUans may have grown familiar with now. As tension further eases, any measures now may soon grow lax or even be released upon the return of a ‘peace’ wherein no sinister extremist schemes have taken place yet. One must consider, however, that there is no such thing as irrationality when faced with immediate threat to one’s life. All that are affected and bound to be affected are within the right to seek the fulfillment of a universal basic human right to live; all constituents of an educational institution aiming to be a ‘Peace university’ are within the scope of receiving this peace that is being sought after.

In between opting for perpetual assurances of safety by increased measures, or relaxing measures due to budget and resource constraints and letting even a small chance slip through; akin to casting a wide impenetrable blanket for the miniscule chance of a destructive needle going through, MSU System has the choice to either heed the call, or to turn a blind eye and a deaf ear to the cries for accountability from its constituents.

It risks experiencing the regret of listening to the cry for wolves, or yet another tragic incident that shall leave more innocent people lifeless in its wake. The peace that the university was born for and strives for is simultaneously within and out of reach.

As things currently stand, the focus on keeping things out glosses over the fact that no other action has taken place since. Strike while the iron is hot, yes, but with what tool, with what resource?

As what has happened before, the fact that there is no hundred-percent guarantee becomes an excuse and point of dismissal for what more could be done for the university to attain a state of peace that is not easily shaken.

EDITORIAL 5

Apart from things way outside the university’s control, steps as simple as implementing most of the current security measures for good would already be a significant step forward.

While being a state university does not equate to having substandard facilities and services, one thing any public institution could take note of is the level of care that can be seen within private educational institutions. It is one of the few things that shouldn’t be bargained for and gambled with. Safety is everyone’s right, but at this point, to have it is a privilege. Before it turns into exhausted apathy, and while anyone could still notice and react, the burning iron must be struck.

Education is important, yes, it is even a treasure insurmountable by any other riches. In the face of choosing safety and life, however, education becomes a secondary priority. There is no use in thinking about graduating and moving onto the next stage of one’s life when it could end without any warning, at any time. Peace is a state of tranquility with no disturbance, not a state in which red, glaring lights are purposefully ignored for the sake of normalcy, for the purpose of sweeping elephants in the room under a poorly-made rug.

When it comes to safety, the status quo is not meant to be the standard, the standard is not meant to be the bare minimum, and going above and beyond is what the true standard is. Not just the MSU system, but any institution meant for the betterment of lives: the ideal is for them to stay as such, not as the grave of those caught by a momentary snag on the blanket of safety. Safety for one campus may mean additional inspection, but for another, it means not having explosives within their premises. Let no one wait for yet another gruesome tragedy to strike.

Until the universal meaning of safety is to not take any chances or any remote risk, then the meaning of ‘PEACE’ as a state, a condition, or a circumstance in the context of MSU remains fragmented into pieces.

‘‘ When it comes to safety, the status quo is not meant to be the standard, the standard is not meant to be the bare minimum, and going above and beyond is what the true standard is.

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66 NEWS NEWS

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GEARING TOWARDS DIGITAL ERA GUIA REBOLLIDO, LYNXTER GYBRIEL LEAÑO

MSU GenSan to ease long queues through smart buildings

Photo by John Ross Sambanan

The rise of technology-driven buildings in MSU GenSan campus signals the transformation of General Santos City’s premier learning institution into becoming a smart university.

Sheila J. Loable, the Vice Chancellor for Planning and Development (VCPD), said three edifices will soon dot the sprawling campus – one to house the Virtual Learning Studio (VLS), faculty lounge, and a Information Communication Technology (ICT) office which will bring reliefs to MSUans as it

will solve the usual problem – the long queues.

the digital transformation without them,” she pointed out.

Two of these buildings, the ICT office and faculty lounge, are currently being constructed while the VLS is yet to be built, as the VCPD emphasized.

Loable uttered that these projects were proposed in line with the national government’s agenda in 2020 and were already included in the annual investment program of the university.

“Lahat yan na mga building, they are really significant. Kasi we cannot have

She added that the need for MSU to undergo digital transformation is to address the existing problems of students like long queues to process payments and getting their clearances signed.

“By 2043, dapat natransform na ang university to digital, lahat na ng ating processes ay online. Most of the

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NEWS 7

processes will be digital, para mas mabilis ang services ng ating university sa mga estudyante,” the vice chancellor remarked as it takes 20 years for a traditional university to convert into a smart one.

is divided into two phases. The first phase, with a budget of 2.9M pesos, is expected to finish by 2024 while the second phase, costing 3M pesos, is set to commence right after the completion of the first phase.

Faculty lounge

According to Loable, this project is funded through the General Appropriations Act (GAA).

The faculty lounge is a locally-funded project with a budget of 9.8M pesos that is currently ongoing construction near the University Library.

Loable said the lounge will help provide an in-campus space for all faculty members.

The project was proposed by MSU System Faculty Regent, Dr. Mario D. Aguja, and implemented by the Department of Public Welfare and Highways (DPWH) - South Cotabato 1st District Engineering Office.

According to her, the faculty lounge will contain a mini-library and have designated areas where faculty members can rest and even hold meetings.

“It is one of the requirements for the accreditation of the university,” Loable stressed.

The faculty lounge began construction last June 2023 and is expected to be finished by November, this year.

ICT office According to Loable, the ICT Office is the part of the university which will contain the equipment intended for its digital transformation.

“Para siyang ICT Hub, but eventually it is not an ICT Hub. It’s really the office of the ICT,” she said.

The ICT Office will be able to cater more students than the ICT Hub that is currently located in the second floor of the administrative building.

With the completion of the ICT Office, students will no longer have to climb up to the second floor to accomplish ICT-related tasks such as getting their ID photos taken.

The construction of the ICT Office

Virtual learning studio The VLS proposed by Loable herself, is a project recently awarded by the Acting Chancellor Usman D. Aragasi after being approved in the 2022 GAA. Loable says it will contain the speech laboratory intended for students of the College of Social Sciences and Humanites (CSSH) for their subjects which require oral communication.

It is also one of the requirements for CSSH to reach level IV of accreditation.

Based on our interview, the VLS will be built next to the faculty lounge, beside the University Library for the convenience of students and teachers.

Loable said that aside from the VLS, another ICT Hub will be constructed behind the University Library where teachers can record videos and produce quality outputs of their lectures for their students to utilize.

“Later on, yung mga online classes gusto ng mga teacher and faculty, gusto nila magvideo, doon na sila.

Meron isang room doon na okay talaga ang sounds para maganda talaga yung output na maibigay nila sa mga estudyante,” she said.

Upcoming projects Aside from the three projects, the university is also awaiting the construction of the university canteen and the completion of other buildings such as the College of Medicine (COM) and the University Infirmary.

The VCPD stressed that the canteen, which is also a project needed for the accreditation of the university, is expected to begin construction in 2024 with a budget of 5M pesos.

With regards to the completion of the University Infirmary, Loable clarifies that the newly built structure next to the old infirmary will later be connected to the old building through a pathwalk and will be a portion of the overall zoning of the said building.

“Later kasi, icoconvert natin yan into an infirmary talaga. Kasi ngayon, hindi pa siya PhilHealth-accredited. Si DOH, meron siyang prescribed na room.

Yung room doon, connected yan siya.” she said. ` According to Loable, the completion of the infirmary will address the issue of lack of space for the prescribed number of rooms by the DOH. Students in need of medical attention can be admitted within the university grounds, instead of being referred to big hospitals.

“Yung estudyante, hindi na natin siya ipadala sa hospital, pwede na sila mag-admit. Ngayon kasi they cannot practice the admission kasi we are not yet accredited sa DOH. Kaya nirerefer tayo sa hospitals,” she further emphasized.

Loable also adds that later on, students from the COM can intern here but reiterated that the University Infirmary must be Philhealth-accredited first.

The infirmary is said to have a budget of three million pesos funded by the university’s income.

Future plans Along with the goal of becoming a smart university through digital transformation, MSU also plans to become an eco-campus.

“Kasi kailangan green campus din tayo.

Meron tayong green initiatives. Nasa plano na yan siya, in 2043,” Loable shared.

According to her, they are also eyeing the construction of a Psychological & Research Center to assess the psychological wellness of not only students from MSU but the whole SOCCSKSARGEN area.

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BAGWIS

Photo by John Ross Sambanan

LYNXTER GYBRIEL LEANO, GUIA REBOLLIDO

Incomplete gym to resume construction in 1st quarter of 2024 After four long years of waiting for the unfinished gym to resume construction, Sheila J. Loable, Vice Chancellor for Planning and Development (VCPD), emphasized during an interview that the 75 million peso budget for its second phase of construction was approved by the Senate, prompting the VCPD office to make a phase two plan for its implementation and for it to be built by 2024.

“Kakagaling ko lang man sa senate budget hearing then it was already

approved and even in our National Expenditure Program, before siya naano sa senate na plenary session kasi approved na lahat ng budget ng SOX. It is a comprehensive release, ibig sabihin from first quarter or second quarter of the year next year, nandiyan na yung pera,” Loable said during the conduct of interview last November 17.

She explained that construction of the gym is composed of three phases, noting that phase 1 has a budget of 50 million pesos and 75 million pesos for

GYMNASIUM CONSTRUCTION PROTOCOL

phases 2 and 3, amounting to a total of 200 million pesos.

With the given amount, the second phase will take six to eight months to finish, while its construction is expected to begin by February or March next year.

“Kung mas dako ang kwarta na imong ibutang, mas dako ang program of works nimo. Kasi imoha manang iprogram mo man kung unsa ang iyang mahuman. Nakaproject kasi ‘yan kung pila ang pondo, kung pila ang funding.

PHASE ONE Constructed Php 50M budget Initial funds reallocated to pandemic

PHA

Senate Start a

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NEWS 9

Kay sure na 2024 ang pera, kailangan ding gastasin ang pera na ‘yan until December, or maobligate mo until December 2024,” the VCPD expounded.

construction of the gym and infirmary.

However, in the following year, the DPWH was unable to request the 75M budget for the gym.

Moreover, the second phase will include the erection of a ceiling to allow students to utilize the building.

However, if the budget for the third phase arrives, then the construction will continue, and the gym will remain offlimits to students.

“Lahat ng infra kasi noon, pinabalik sa government. Kasi actually, nasa funding na ni Senator Pacquiao yan, pumasok na sa kanya as FLR. And then eventually pinabalik lahat, kasi gamitin nila yung fund for pandemic,” the VCPD explained.

When asked why the gym’s second phase of construction took years to continue, Loable explained that project funding was initially requested by the Department of Public Welfare and Highways (DPWH), the office of the former Senator Manny Pacquiao.

According to Loable, she once again lobbied the project, together with Acting Chancellor JD Usman D. Aragasi’s initiative, to the Department of Budget Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman earlier this year.

In 2020, the government reallocated the funds meant for infrastructure towards the pandemic response, halting the

ASE TWO

“Wala na yung sa gym kasi kay Pacquiao man yun, so tayo na ngayon ang nagrequest sa DBM. Nung pumunta ang DBM dito, ako ang nagpresent nun

e-approved Php 75M budget at Feb-March 2024 with 6-8 months duration

actually, sinabi ko na di na siya ingon na white elephant, white octopus na gid siya,” Loable expressed.

The VCPD said that the new gymnasium is expected to cater up to 8,000 people and is expected to house a commercial section in its lower area.

However, she emphasized that despite offering a larger space for students to hold activities, large events such as university commencement exercises will still be held outside because of the gym’s limited capacity.

According to Loable, once the new gymnasium is finished, the old gymnasium will not be torn down and will instead be utilized for classes.

PHASE THREE Lump amount Php 200M New gym will cater 8k students

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BAGWIS

Photo by John Ross Sambanan

LYNXTER GYBRIEL LEANO, LOURENZ JAY LOREGAS

MSU-GenSan heightens security after MSU-Marawi bombing incident; safety concerns worry MSUans Security efforts were made by the Mindanao State University - General Santos (MSU-GenSan) to safeguard the campus and its constituents as safety concerns worry them after the bombing at MSU-Marawi’s Dimaporo gymnasium during a religious gathering last December 3.

On December 5, MSU-GenSan enacted safety protocols through M.O. number 86-23C, which include mandating the constant wearing of IDs within campus premises, temporarily closing the back gate for vehicular entry forcing constituents with vehicles to divert to the main gate despite inconvenience, and instituting bag checks for all entering the campus, among others.

During an interview, Dr. Mishell D. Lawas, the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, outlined the steps taken to devise campus safety measures, involving meetings with college deans and directors of university offices, and the re-establishment of the crisis committee which was first formed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

to wear their IDs for easy identification,” Lawas shared.

“So the very initial step na ginawa natin is we tried to strengthen our security measures. We gave some measures na sa tingin natin makakatulong and it is a concerted effort for everyone. May mga closure tayo ng mga secondary gates para malaman natin kung sino ‘yung papasok, sino ‘yung lalabas at tsaka if possible, talagang yung mga students natin, ‘yung mga bisita natin, will have

MSU-Marawi bombing

Furthermore, the VCAA acknowledges the inconvenience caused by these enacted protocols, such as the traffic at the main gate due to the checking of bags, but emphasizes its importance for the security of the campus.

It was Sunday, December 3, when a bombing at MSU-Marawi’s Dimaporo gymnasium during a religious gathering resulted in the deaths of four individuals, with several others sustaining injuries, causing concern among MSU system constituents after a video of the incident circulated on

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NEWS 11

Facebook.

In response, the university administration suspended classes and all academic activities, deployed additional security personnel to safeguard the campus, and collaborated closely with the local government units and law enforcement authorities to ensure campus safety.

Despite the incident, no recommendation for a lockdown or evacuation of the university constituents was made, as the university is deemed secure based on the assessment of the internal security of the campus.

The social media platforms were quickly flooded with sentiments following the act of violence at the campus, with strong sentiments coming from MSU system constituents, including students, alumni, faculty, and staff members, and the official communication pages of its sister campuses.

Meanwhile, on December 7, MSUMarawi issued Memorandum 294 s. of 2023, announcing the resumption of classes and academic activities starting December 11, which also included information regarding special accommodations and transport services to assist victims of the incident, and those 1,948 out of 14,855 (13.11%) officially enrolled students who returned to their home provinces, excluding Lanao del Sur, following the incident.

On the other hand, a possible accomplice in the said bombing was arrested on December 6 by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and government forces in the person of Jafar Gamo Sultan, aka “Jar” or “Kurot,” based on the report of Rappler.

However, on that same day, the Philippine National Police (PNP)

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held a press conference identifying the suspects of the incident, namely Kadapi Mimbesa, or “Engineer,” as the person who was seen carrying the bag containing the bomb, and Arsani Membesa, or “Khatab,” who are members of Dawlah Islamiyah - Maute Group.

Moreover, another two suspects were arrested by the PNP on December 9 at Barangay Cabasaran, Lumbayanague, in Lanao del Sur, according to the published news article by GMA Integrated News.

These suspects, namely “Maausor” and “Monatanda/Titing,” were also said to be members of Dawlah Islamiyah - Maute Group.

MSUans’ sentiments Some MSUans here in MSU-Gensan cited worries about safety after the bombing incident; however, they have expressed relief that the administration tightened the security of the university and acknowledges the sense of security it now provides.

“Actually, I’m glad nga mas naging strict sila sa security sa school especially kay ‘tong wala pa naging strict, bisan sin-o lang maka sulod sa campus that time.

Tapos ‘tong nag gawas ang news sa bombing sa Marawi, nag worry gid ko sa safety ko, pero mas nag worry akon parents kay layo nga daan sila sa akon.

We don’t know ano matabo tomorrow or today, pero atleast may sense of security na ta, pero unta earlier pa na implement, pero okay nalang,” Chedicka Europa, 2nd-year student of Bachelor of English and Language Studies said.

Another student on the same course, namely Princess Reyes, voiced concerns about the inconvenience caused by bag checks, particularly for students

commuting, suggesting a more streamlined process. “‘Yung nag strict ang school since the bombing kay hassle masyado for the students kay kailangan pa magbaba sa jeep to check the bags which I don’t mind pero sa mga private vehicles man gud kay wala na nila gina check. Bakit ganun? Then kawawa ang mga MSU riders kay ang ibang students wala na naga sakay kay gina pili nalang nila ilakad, pwede man siguro na pareha sa jeep, i-check lang ang IDs and bags ng students hindi na mag pa double ride pa,” Reyes said.

Nevertheless, MSU-Gensan is now gearing up its resilience amidst the incident, emphasizing its commitment to becoming a peace university.

“As one MSU, one community, we are one advocating for peace especially MSU -Gensan because of the tragedy. Did you know that it is very insulting on the part of MSU because we are trying to become a peace university? So it is just a manifestation that we still need to work more for the peace kasi nga this time, all of our efforts and energy are channeled to really become peace university pero all of a sudden ‘yun ‘yung nangyayari,” the VCAA explained.

“We are really trying, and we have proven our worth as a resilient community. As MSUans we are not only good in academics, we are not only resilient sa yung mga endeavors natin as a scholar ng bayan but we are also trying to be resilient in terms of calamities like this. In terms of tragedies like this, especially if will really challenge the University especially since we are a peace university,” Lawas further remarked.

12 COLUMN

BAGWIS blocks were devalued when their designs were easily replicated. When confronted, a professor from RMMCI MI admitted that they have tried to alter the design as much as possible—to which they haven’t.

Another pubmat plagiarism incident is made by the English Society of RMMCGensan, when they posted a replica of the birthday greeting design of College of Social Sciences and Humanities Student Organization of MSU-GSC. Howbeit, they immediately posted a public apology, holding themselves accountable for such actions.

JASMINE JOY PANES

Unflattering familiarity Art by Micha Pancho

I

mitation, as they say, is deemed as the sincerest form of flattery.

Since then, artists have sought inspiration from others to craft their own versions of masterpieces.

In the recent months, the students of Mindanao State University – General Santos City (MSU-GSC) have encountered a few recognizable layouts and designs while browsing Facebook, sparking a series of disputes between the MSUans and students from other involved schools.

Evidently, the digital era has amplified the frequent copying of one’s original creative works, crossing the fine line between inspiration and ethical considerations.

One of the issues that caused a huge stir is when MSUans spotted some images of officers from the College of Agriculture and Fisheries Students’ Society (CAFSS) of South East Asian Institute of Technology (SEAIT) wearing polo shirts, strikingly resembling the official department shirt of MSU-GSC’s College of Agriculture, Crop Science Students Society (CSSS) for the Academic Year 2022-2023. The similarity is undoubtedly evident, spanning from the color scheme and tribal patterns to the placement of the designs—except the CSSS logo that

was replaced with ‘CAFSS’ lettering.

What exacerbated the situation was the apparent lack of accountability on CAFSS end; instead of acknowledging their actions, they instead added further mockery and sarcastic remarks following their separate Facebook post, a so-called ‘public apology’, after it was called out for being AI-generated. Furthermore, there have been similarities with intramurals sports shirt design of both Nursing Department of General Santos Doctors’ Medical School Foundation, Inc. and MSU-GSC’s College of Education. While differing in color palette, the geometric patterns on the sides of both designs bore an obvious resemblance.

Coincidence? Only one can hope.

Additionally, there has been an uncanny resemblance between Ramon Magsaysay Memorial CollegesMarbel, Inc. (RMMC MI) publication material (pubmat) updates for their Hinampang 2023 and to Bagwis, the Official Student Publication of MSU-GSC’s Intramurals 2023 sports updates. The placements of the elements were undeniably similar, with the former blatantly copying the latter’s design. The layout artists of Bagwis have expressed their profound disappointment, as they felt like their efforts and countless art

Copying could be seen as a genuine form of appreciation and inspiration of one’s admirable talents. In the words of George Bernard Shao, “Imitation is not just the sincerest form of flattery – it’s the sincerest form of learning.” However, as flattering as it is, the narrative shifts when copying becomes an outright form of plagiarism.

In the Philippines, plagiarism may not be a crime, but it is the same with copyright violation and is still punishable under Republic Act No. 8293, also known as the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines.

Whilst benchmarking is a common thing to do, replicating is another story. This series of plagiarism has caused dismay to the student artists of the university, as they have put through a lot of effort to produce high-quality outputs for their respective organizations. At the very least, acknowledging the original work through simple citation would suffice, yet such recognition is not present in those incidents. The students could not also be blamed for butting in these issues, for they believe that calling out plagiarism is a must to safeguard the integrity of their fellow MSUans.

Plagiarism is not exclusive in MSU-GSC; they also occur elsewhere, where artist’s intellectual properties are infringed upon.

Society needs to heed with the ethical boundaries in drawing inspirations from others’ works. Imitation indeed serves as a form of learning, yet the rights of the co-artists must be preserved. Artists did not dedicate so much time, research, and passion in their works, just to have them easily copied through the internet. As we scroll through our social media, may the words “Hmm, familiar!” never be uttered again, for the display of extreme disrespect is much unflattering, especially for the creative minds of the entitled individuals.

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ALJIM KUDARAT

Recalibrate recurring GEC course narratives Cartoon by Sharif Ryan Beldia

It is a proverbial belief running through the veins of every MSUan that admitting themselves to MSU is a much-championing academic endeavor, thereby making studying at this prestigious university truly a great privilege. Right after their win is a resonant echo dominating the ground, realising that now, as an officially MSUan, they are entitled to have education free of tuition but in steeped condition, and that is to prepare themselves for a battle where brains shed blood to triumph or otherwise bereft. As most MSUans stumble into penury, General Education Curriculum (GEC) courses weigh the scale unbalanced. Over time, these numerous courses have been subjected to redundancy tantamount to what K–12 Curriculum subjects offered, paving the way for a huge interval in students’ academic set-up, which seems to be a contributing factor to their problems.

After more than a month of studying at MSU, problems faced by students increased, and resources were debilitated. General Education Curriculum (GEC) courses are umpteen and innate in the system and are taught diversely depending on how the respective professor strategies to impart common knowledge. Relatively, as tactics vary, ways and means also diverge, making the structure of GEC courses amorphous and subjected to a massive dim. Unlike other major courses, GEC courses are kind of a different breed; evidently, students are bombarded with heaps of tasks, reports,

and financial emissions, among others.

Unfortunately, the culture that has been instilled and nurtured throughout these years has backslid and is not compatible anymore with an MSUan who barely lives in escarpment and whose pockets were torn out, deviating from the set benchmark.

Students might have been enmeshed among these courses if, in the first place, they could be the standard they wished to be and get rid of life’s mediocrity. In the case of Mary, her chosen sobriquet, a freshman from the College of Agriculture (COA) who is taking GEC courses, she shared her standpoint on how studying the above-mentioned courses is thorny.

She categorically agreed with the claim that learning these courses is pivotal, but she later found loopholes in how similar courses she took resurfaced in college. Just giving space for another tribulation because some professors value memorization-based learning metrics and faulty modules that escalate her status quo.

“Natudlo naman ni sauna, maong para sa akoa dili na kaayo siya lisod. Pero lahi man gud ang approach sa uban na teachers...naa pa juy modules nga kung dili hardcopy na bayaran, didto pud sa online nga kailangan pa ug load,” she said.

Meanwhile, the statement opens up the point that GEC courses are already taught under the K–12 Curriculum, and removing one of them is an advent for something better. Subjects

like “The Contemporary World,” “Purposive Communication,” and “Science, Technology and Society” show interconnectedness with K–12 Curriculum subjects like “Contemporary Philippine Arts from the Regions“ and “Oral Communication“, to name a few, which appear to be redundant for most students. However, despite their clear relativity, these courses took part not just in the learning development of every student but also in looking back to where it all began and shaping this world with the necessary knowledge to trim all potential harm. Hence, deducing all apparent overrated entities in GEC would be the best recourse rather than terminating.

The concept of GEC courses offers a really great learning impact on students, sustaining their capacity to get immersed in the fundamentals of this world’s learning body. But teaching the same substance all over again and repeatedly makes them eventually stagnant, making their bodies a repository of repetitious contexts. Considering that burdens may intensify a student’s life due to retaking a multitude of interdisciplinary courses, a sorted review will do. With all the GEC courses taught, it is never feasible from a student perspective to easily adapt the mandates of their pedagogues.

Therefore, as much as these courses care for conducive and general knowledge, it should be fairly in great balance with how GEC subjects attain a new facade without being flagged as redundant again and again.

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This is Minda… NOW? KRYSTEL LUBATON, LEONARD TUCJAYAO & HERKURT TAMBA

The land of promise - Mindanao.

Breathe of progress once painted vivid vistas over the many landscapes of Mindanao. Prosperity was assured by an abundance of natural resources and rich cultural tapestries, and there was a general optimism about dreams coming true.

seismic shift.

Here we are at a knife on the road - in the very heart of Mindanao, once known as the “Land of Promise,” where the heavens were filled with dreams. Shadows are braved by journalists, and tragedy reverberates through our once-safe MSU. Locals navigate a land of shattered dreams and disquiet.

However, this idyllic scenery underwent a

This is Minda... NOW? A whispered

question in the winds of disbelief, challenging the very essence of the ‘promised’ land.

Along the Fault Lines: Threat of Chona Mae “Chona Mae, Chona Mae! ” On November 17, 2023, General Santos City experienced a 7.2-magnitude earthquake,

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triggering false tsunami reports. A video from Bula, GSC, showing the ocean receding fueled panic, resulting in a chaotic scene near SM Gensan. Despite no official threats, a simple shout of “tsunami” caused a stampede, highlighting the challenge of managing information during crises.

On December 2, a powerful earthquake struck Surigao del Sur, prompting a tsunami alarm from Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).

Residents were urged to evacuate immediately, showcasing the importance of heeding official warnings. The incidents underscored the innate yet risky behavior of panicking and spreading misinformation during disasters, emphasizing the need for public education on response measures.

A seemingly never-ending string of earthquakes is striking the land of Mindanao. People become traumatized and mindful as a result, being reminded to keep an eye out for the “Big One.” Because of its location along fault lines, it is impossible to predict when or where one of the stunning islands in the Philippines may suffer a terrible disaster. Additionally, a strong earthquake maintains the perception that a tsunami is always a threat.

These events serve as a reminder to stay vigilant, rely on reliable information sources, and engage in community-wide preparedness efforts. The call to “keep oneself together and make a safety run for the hills” encapsulates personal responsibility in the face of natural disasters, emphasizing the role of individual actions in ensuring a more coordinated and orderly response.

Mind-the-Now: Watch Us Over The saying “the press must be brave as well as free” highlights the essential role of courage in journalism, particularly in regions like Mindanao where media practitioners face significant threats. But where can we find courage in this time when uncertainty overshadows the status quo, especially here in our own Mindanao?

In November 2023, Juan Jumalon, a radio broadcaster in Misamis Occidental, was shot and killed while live on Facebook, adding to a series of attacks on media

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workers. This includes the 2022 death of political commentator Federico Gemsepaw in CDO, the 2019 shooting at Bombo RadyoGensan station, and a delayed verdict on a journalist massacre in Maguindanao.

These incidents underscore the dangerous environment for media practitioners in the Philippines. Take this as an example of how dangerous the life of a media practitioner could be and that government security forces would just end their interview with that same old line, “Justice will be served.”

cornerstone of peace formation becomes the literal avenue of conflict.

Beyond mainstream media, university press faces threats, notably red-tagging, inducing a sense of unease. Crippling sensations lingered as I heard the news.

The publication is on the watch, suggesting the connotative remark of being listed and seen, which brought the publication to settle for the meantime on the shallow waters. Remember that it is sinful to kill a mockingbird if it does nothing but sing; for journalists criticizing and exposing the iniquitous, but he who writes and speaks the truth about injustice, political intrigues, and misconduct is marching towards his doom.

Despite the university’s commitment to fostering peace, evident in its curriculum through programs like FPE (Foundation for Peace Education), the irony persists—MSU, originally conceived as a cornerstone of peace formation, has become a literal avenue for conflict. The institution’s dedication to quality and accessible education is commendable, evident in its top-ranking status in Asia in 2023. However, the pressing concern remains the safety of its constituents.

Bravery, however, isn’t a bulletproof defense, and safe spaces alone cannot ensure journalists’ security. The government’s responsibility is underscored; the tendency to scrutinize and surveil journalists due to their critical role in monitoring politics must be addressed.

It goes beyond handling criticism; the government must prioritize the safety of those who courageously report on issues that matter for the public good.

‘Mindanao Problem’ On a seemingly typical Sunday morning, Mindanao was shaken when an explosion blasted a tagged National Peace University of the country on December 3, 2023, during a religious gathering, tragically claiming the lives of four civilians. The Mindanao State University, a now supra-regional institution, was originally established to aid what was once referred to as the “Mindanao Problem,” where protracted armed conflicts have relatively been the status quo of the Mindanaoan people since the 1960s.

However, what is beyond saddening is when an institution that should have been the

The campus has been marred by past incidents, notably a shooting during a sporting event on December 2, 2021, and the shooting deaths of two MSUans on September 14 of the same year. These incidents occurred within the university’s premises, raising questions about the effectiveness of the measures taken by the institution to address such recurring events.

The call for MSU to prioritize safety over complacency echoes the sentiment of every MSUan: to make the campus genuinely safe again, for everyone’s well-being.

While education is undeniably crucial, the recurrent incidents emphasize the need for the institution to reevaluate and recalibrate its priorities, ensuring a secure environment that aligns with its mission of peace and education.

The difficulties that arise during a recession may seem insurmountable, yet they are the crucible that shapes resilience. This is our homeland, and suffering is merely a rallying cry. Let the answer to despair be our combined fortitude.

This is Minda... NOW! We are Mindanao!

Its failure puts all of us at risk. If Mindanao falters, we all stand on the precipice - we also falter.

Let us rise against the odds, for in our unity lies the strength to reclaim the promises that once adorned our skies. And together, we must do something—for the dreams, for the voices, for the promise that still lingers in the beating heart of the motherland.

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It (Amuma) normalizes the idea that gender is a spectrum and that individuals should be able to use facilities that align with their gender identity

Photos by Adrian Joven

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Aruga ng Amuma: Embracing Diversity, Carrying out Inclusivity LESLIE ANNE PAYONGAYONG

To embrace diversity is to carry out inclusivity. These inclusivities may come in many shapes and forms — but all these lead to one thing: respect to all. And that’s what the Amuma is established to do.

Amuma, in the Bisaya language, translates to “to nurture,” or “to care.” It encapsulates the whole idea of caring for all — and giving respect to all. Concerning someone’s physical, emotional, and physical well-being is one way to do it. And like any other care-providing institutions, Mindanao State University also has its own way of nurturing its constituents!

Established within the Laktanan Wellness Garden is the “Amuma,” the newest physical manifestation of “care” that immensely sheds light to gender-inclusivity. This pioneering bathroom aims to foster representation, space privacy, and safety for all its users.

Alleviating gender stereotypes, the novel Amuma is a groundbreaking comfort room — considering all gender preferences! This initiative pursuits to have everyone be identified to whatever they want to be identified with, and serves as a safe space that leads to genuine appreciation from people of all gender spectrums.

“It (Amuma) normalizes the idea that gender is a spectrum and that individuals should be able to use facilities that align with their gender identity,” Dr. Alma Celesthia Dumalag-Aguja advocated how the Amuma mainly destigmatized gender stereotypes upon its initiation.

As mandated by the Republic Act no. 9710, The Magna Carta of Women, private and public institutions shall have programs giving emphasis to a progressive correlation with gender and its development.

Spearheaded by Dr. Alma Celesthia Dumalag-Aguja, the focal person for Gender and Development of the AMSUA Multipurpose Cooperative and a member of the Gender and Development Focal Point System of the university, the Amuma simply arose due to a practical reason: having no near comfort rooms around the Laktanan Wellness Garden, in which she has also headed in establishing. With the nearest restrooms being inside the University Library and the Y Building which both have strict office hours, she initiated to have the comfort room accommodate MSUANs in more flexible hours — being more aligned with the students’ day-to-day university lives.

To make it more student-inclusive, it was planned to be opened also during the weekends! And since her projects are all kindled with gender-sensitivity, she made an initiative to incorporate a gender-neutral

comfort room for Amuma. Composed of three rooms — one each for males, females, and for those who are within the wide gender spectrum.

The said comfort rooms are provided with all the basic hygiene necessities an individual may need, including tissues, sanitary pads, and more. The Amuma is open for the public, but it is highly emphasized for every student to be responsible with their use. As users of the Amuma and any other comfort rooms, it is the basic, unspoken rule to reciprocate the respect you received upon utilizing the facility. Indeed, instituting this facility takes us one step closer to a more gendersensitive, equitable, and progressive community.

Inclusively, Amuma emphasizes the appreciation of the LGBTQ+ community. The LGBTQ+ community includes the lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transgenders, queers, and many more gender preferences which are continuously adding up today. But there’s more to these than meet the eye. Embracing people with arrays of gender identities, this community serves as the cradle of comfortability to one’s genuine individuality. As the world evolves, the social acceptance of this community, along with other diverse community groups, also progresses.

Communities like these hold the power to present themselves as equally-significant individuals.

Yes, there may be stigmatizations and stereotyping ideas along the process, but once the society gets to sincerely recognize the contributions made by these communities and their unique identities, there would be no more room for social discrimination, inequality, and division. All varying circumstances and stigmatizations a person of this community may face are not faced alone — but are conquered by the whole community itself. Indeed, through Amuma, we are approaching a more inclusively-embracing society to people from all the diverse walks of life.

Amuma not only teaches us how to be responsible as constituents of the university, but also on how to be inclusive at all times. This sends us a vivid message that progressiveness towards acceptance of diversity and inclusivity, integrating the societal acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community, may come in varying shapes and sizes — be it through physical campaigns, mental support, or emotional presence. Continuing to develop, the society, together with the whole MSU environment, strives to attain a safer place for all diverse students; a place nurturing respect to one’s unique individuality and identity. With Amuma being one of these progressiveness, to carry out inclusivity is, indeed, embracing diversity.

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KEZIAH REIGN H. CARIÑO

Resilience Amidst Shattered Grounds In the face of adversity, our strength lies not just in the ground beneath us but in the unyielding spirit that binds us together.

O

n a quiet afternoon in November 17, 2023, General Santos City got hit by an unexpected tremor that shook the very foundations of our homes, roads, and institutions. The 6.8 magnitude earthquake left a trail of panic, damaged structures, and, sadly, casualties in its wake. Among the affected was Mindanao State University (MSU), usually a peaceful place for learning that suddenly turned chaotic.

MSU, like the rest of the city, was caught off guard during that fateful afternoon.

As the clock struck 4:14, MSU was conducting its usual classes when the ground beneath began shaking. The atmosphere was replaced with fear and uncertainty as students and faculty grappled with the unexpected quake.

The instinct to duck, cover, and hold was overshadowed by the collective urgency to seek refuge outside, away from the potential dangers of falling debris. Some students, overwhelmed by panic, even fainted in the chaos.

Professors and university staff, just like the students, were shocked. The usual sounds of classrooms were replaced by cries and hurried footsteps. Classes stopped abruptly, and everyone rushed home, worried about their families and the safety of their homes. The aftermath

Photos by Aihk Kenneth Barona / rappler.com Kinneth Bendijo / facebook.com

of the earthquake prompted students returning to their provinces, seeking solace for their loved ones. MSU, despite being an institution of higher learning, suddenly found itself at the epicenter of a human drama, with the resiliency of its community being tested in unforeseen ways.

Yet, facing adversity, unity and camaraderie prevailed not just within MSU but across the city. The Public Safety Office, the Office of the Building Official, and the City Engineering Office collaborated to assess damage and implement safety measures. Red Cross Volunteers, alongside dedicated public servants, played a crucial role in aiding those heavily affected. This response showcased remarkable solidarity and resilience, emphasizing that, in times of crisis, the community can rise above challenges.

Mandated building inspections led to class suspension from November 20 to 21. A memorandum from the MSU Chancellor’s office instructed asynchronous classes from November 22 to 24, providing time for recovery.

This break allowed MSUans and the people of General Santos to regroup and find solace, discovering strength in the unspoken bond that unites the

community despite the physical shake.

Amidst aftershocks, MSUans and General Santos residents unite, embodying the Filipino adage: “Bayanihan sa Gitna ng Kalamidad” (Unity in the Face of Calamity). Nongovernment organizations provided aid to the vulnerable, while restaurants and shops generously supported responders. Compassion extended to the private sector, with major malls aiding employees with groceries, ensuring their families were cared for during inspections and cleaning.

Some benevolent hands also took it upon themselves to alleviate the transportation struggles faced by the residents. “Libreng sakay” or free rides were offered, providing a lifeline to those navigating a city in disarray.

Reflecting on that fateful November day, let’s recognize the triumph of the human spirit rising above the earthquake’s devastation. Amidst the shattered grounds, humanity’s true measure lies in the unwavering spirit that lifts us beyond wreckage, painting the indomitable story of a community rising, one resilient heartbeat at a time.

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SPORTS EDITORIAL 21

JASMINE JOY PANES

Sports is a MASTS

Cartoon by Jezrah Gamutin

E

xcitements have turned into disappointments for the studentathletes of Mindanao State University - General Santos (MSU-GSC), as the institution was not able to join the recently concluded annual Mindanao Association of State Tertiary Schools (MASTS) Friendship Games 2023. It is unflattering how state universities across Mindanao geared up whilst MSU-GSC, the biggest and only state university in GSC, skipped the games. Evidently, the administration chose not to give external sports competitions importance, unlike how it puts a premium on the internal and intercollegiate events like Intramurals and Angara’s Cup. Dated September 9–15, social media was filled with MASTS Friendship Games 2023 updates, which fueled the dismay of MSUan student-athletes. Women’s table tennis player Rose Ann Garay can’t help but express her sentiments about how MSU-GSC’s absence in the games affected them. “Missed opportunity from previous MASTS cause discouragement for most studentathletes in the MSU Varsity community,” stated the Mechanical Engineering table tennis player.

Furthermore, Sepak Takraw Coach Christofferson Del Sol also shared the negative consequences of the university’s non-participation on the morale of MSUan student-athletes. In

his words, “Somehow disappointing ito sa mga student-athlete lalo na sa mga higher years na matagal ng naghihintay ng official games at sa mga bago naman, exposure sana ito nila.”

In an interview with Physical Education Instructor Mussar Atib Salamat, budget constraint and conflict of schedules were the primary reasons why MSUGSC was not able to join the games.

“Nagdungan ang mga event which is Angara [Cup] and MASTS, as well as approaching ang intrams natin… Kung mu-join ta sa MASTS, wala tay budget na mahatag kay ang budget focus nato sa Angara ug sa intrams,” explained Sir Salamat. He further added, “When it comes sa sports natin, medyo behind talaga tayo because kulang tayo ng support from admin.” Clearly, the administration pays a little heed to huge external sports competitions that the student-athletes highly anticipate, in hopes that they would also be able to carry the MSU-GSC banner.

While the MSU-GSC joins and conducts sports tournaments around the city, the student-athletes stressed that they themselves give more importance to Mindanao-wide competitions because it challenge their skills on a higher level.

As per Zedekiah Arsolon, the captain of Lawn Tennis, “Ang level of difficulty per events no sa MASTS, where from other school and sa ubang lugar na nagakalaban nila, mas madevelop ilang

skills and confidence through match.”

Howbeit, what disheartened them most was the miscommunication by the Sports Development Office. They were given false hopes about the institution’s participation in the games along with the “available” budget, which drove them into extreme preparations that were eventually put into setbacks.

It is not new that the administration lacks adequate financial support when it comes to the varsity program. Athletes don’t have sufficient equipment they need, resulting in poor conditioning that affects their performances in actual competitions. They also have to cover their own expenses, lack of coaches and even use their own college sports uniforms instead of official school jerseys during interschool tournaments.

Varsity players worked hard to be part of the team, with the goal of competing in higher events—not just in intercollegiate competitions, hence, it is then the responsibility of the institution to give them the financial support that they deserve.

The admin’s passivity with the recurring issue of budget constraints dispirits their burning passion and enthusiasm for proving that MSU-GSC also excels in the field of sports.The participation of our student-athletes in this kind of competition is a must to further our goal of being a competent university.

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VANESS VILLAFUERTE & JOSEPH CARL ESTRERA

MSUSAA navigates safety concerns amid instability; MSU-GSC athletes undeterred despite postponement In an unexpected turn of events, the much-awaited Mindanao State University System Athletic Association (MSUSAA) has encountered a series of unforeseen incidents. Initially slated for a thrilling December showdown at the Marawi Campus, the event has encountered a strategic timeout, leading to a rescheduling for January and now, prompted discussions for yet another postponement.

MSUSAA this January.

Security and safety concerns have become the forefront of the current discourse on the fate of the muchanticipated sporting event, this heightened emphasis on the direct result of the strong impact of the recent Mindanao quake last November 18 and subsequent unsettling bombing incident at the MSU-Marawi campus. These unforeseen events have put a shadow of uncertainty over the entire meet, bringing a necessary and temporary halt to the strenuous preparations and dedication of both athletes and coaches alike.

“It gives more time for us athletes to prepare and develop our skills more so that we could be able to compete and win in MSUSAA,” he said.

Surrounded by this uncertainty, voices from the sports arena, such as football player Niel Zsun John Vega, view the postponement as a blessing in disguise.

He explains how the additional time allows the team to better prepare for the upcoming competition, strengthening the group’s resilience to face challenges in the future.

Echoing similar sentiments is Hussein G. Mintong, a player for the MSU Generals Men’s Basketball team, shared similar thoughts and plans for the forthcoming MSUSAA meet. The shooting guard emphasized the squad’s commitment to individual growth and their objective of securing a podium finish.

In the wake of the recent events, notably the concerns about inside bombing at MSU-Marawi, prioritizing the safety and welfare of the students has significantly influenced the decision to postpone the MSUSAA.

“We aim for gold, of course, but I think the biggest and most special contribution of this event to each player will be the personal development, application of what we’ve learned during training and up to the end of the game,” he underscored.

The evident risks associated with continuing as planned, particularly amid emerging bomb threats across multiple MSU campuses, have necessitated a comprehensive reassessment of event scheduling to enforce stringent security measures. Emphasizing the priority of campus-wide safety has underscored the gravity of the situation, leading to a critical reconsideration of hosting the

In his open discussion on the MSUSAA delay, Mintong emphasized the significance of the current alarming incidents. He showed his dismay, saying, “We’re a bit regretful because our excitement can’t wait any longer. We’re eager to play, especially since the event is happening at the main campus of MSU-Marawi, and for most of us, it’s our first time participating in SAA.”

Recognizing the wider perspective given up by the postponement, Mintong continued with a mix of thankfulness and disappointment. “Excited talaga kami pero laking pasasalamat din namin kase maliban sa na postponed yung game dahil sa lindol nailayo din kami sa panganib dahil sa pangyayaring pag bomba.” He further noted that the recent bombing incident contributed an additional layer of complexity to the situation.

On the other hand, Jane Vea Lendio, the Women’s Badminton team cocaptain, shared her perspective on the postponement, expressing her initial disappointment given the high anticipation among MSUans.

“Although the postponement was disappointing since it was an anticipated event all MSUans are looking forward to, we didn’t let our emotions get in the way,” Lendio stressed.

Despite the setback of the postponement, the smasher demonstrated their tenacious mindset, making the most of the additional time for practice and firmly proclaiming that the postponement had not impeded their preparation, guaranteeing their readiness on the upcoming event.

Regardless of the unanticipated delay, athletes and coaches’ unfaltering resilience emerge as they eagerly prepare for the upcoming MSUSAA, demonstrating a remarkable determination to push forward with training in spite of the uncertainties surrounding the event.

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FORGING GENERALS | Despite the postponement of the Mindanao State University System Athletic Association (MSUSAA), football varsity players Andriane Marc Pericon and Kenneth Paul Mina from MSU-GenSan remain dedicated to their rigorous training, striving for victory in the highly anticipated competition.

Photos by Katrina Elises

The Land of... Promise In contemplating the current state of Mindanao, the cover serves as a poignant commentary on the unfolding events in our motherland leading up to late 2023. It scrutinizes the once radiant promises of prosperity and dreams in the face of seismic tremors, shadows on journalistic freedom, and tragic occurrences within institutions dedicated to peace.

cartoon by micha pancho

FIRST SEMESTER 2023

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