Vol. 1 Issue No. 1 - The Communiqué

Intramuros, Manila

Vol. 1 Issue No. 1

September 2021 to January 2022

COMMUNIQUÉ The

The Official Media Publication of the College of Humanities Arts and Social Sciences - Student Council

KINAIYA: TEA SPILLED IN FESTIVE, FUN-FILLED CHASSMISAN BY: RANIEL PAQUINGAN

Segment emcees, Kamila Cotoner (BAC 2-3) and Jeremy Castillo (BAC 2-3) host the CHASS-misan segment of Kinaiya, together with Prof. Dela Rosa, Prof. Dometita, and Prof. Felix as invited guest speakers.

SCREENGRAB FROM: KINAIYA: CHASS GENERAL ASSEMBLY LIVE - PLM COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES , ARTS, AND SOCIAL SCIENCES

“Huwag niyong isipin na nag-iisa kayo in this situation, huwag niyong isipin na inaapi kayo o pinahihirapan kayo, we are all in this situation.”

This was the inspirational message shared by Professor Imelda Benitez-Dometita, Chairperson of the Department of Mass Communication, regarding the difficulties faced in the online classes, one of the topics that were discussed in Kinaiya: The College of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences (CHASS) General Assembly on December 10, 1:00 pm “Kinaiya” is a Bisaya term that means an inner character that reflects the goal of the activity: continuing the process of getting to know each other in College; becoming more familiar with the faculty, and shedding light on the problems they’ve encountered during online setup.

The program was hosted by John Coby Cabuhat from BAC 2-1 and Brian James San Ramon from BAC 1-7.

After the program was introduced, it was followed by the National Anthem and Doxology led by Julianne Alvaran and Immanuel Lim from BMMP 3-1.

Afterward, the college reminisced its past achievements in education and sports, inside and outside the university in a video presentation entitled CHASS Through the Years.

Dr. Gilmore G. Solidium, OIC Dean of CHASS greeted and welcomed the people who attended the event. He reminded the audience to continue to adhere to the minimum health standards, especially with the threat of the Omicron variant, he also emphasized the need to do physical distancing, not social distancing.

“I am emphasizing on the physical distancing, not social distancing because this afternoon we shall be socially connected. Let us enjoy this general assembly everyone.

This would keep us socially attached and socially connected. This would allow us to know each other and enjoy ourselves,” Dr. Solidum added.

Then, the first part of CHASS-misan started, which is led

by Hazelle Monteverde and Luis Valenzuela, who was also joined

by DJ Chico Martin. Together they refuted the tsismis or false information surrounding the course communication, such as that there’s no future in it, full of pretentiousness, has no contribution to society and is not as difficult as other courses or programs.

“Ang daming mga personalities mapa-radio man yan, TV, o kung saan man, puwedeng print or anywhere online, at iyong iba na tumawid na ng ibang line na they are successful, iyong mga courses under humanities. Imposibleng walang

FEATURES | p. 6 The Mother Who Ignites the Spark Many students regard her as ‘Nanay Ludz’ as her motherly smile and affection to her mentees inspires them to strive for excellence and be a better person each day. —

In the Service of Academic Excellence

successful, sumikat, o nakilala under those courses,” said the radio DJ. DJ Chico also shared an excerpt from his life where he told the story of how it has always been his dream to be a DJ, even from when he was still a child.

“Maniwala kayo sa power of dream. Very powerful iyan. Kung nasaan ka man at kung ano man ‘ang trip mong gawin sa buhay, sabi ko nga you just hold on to it and do something about it. Utilize whatever you can utilize para ma-achieve kung ano man iyang goal na iyan lalo na ‘yang pangarap na iyan,” he encouraged.

Later on CHASS-misan, Jeremy Castillo and Kamila Cotoner from BAC 2-3 with chairpersons, Prof.

Imelda D. Benitez-Dometita of the Department of Mass Communication, Prof. Babylyn Felix of the Department of Languages and Literature, and Prof Betnadette Dela Rosa of the Department of Social Sciences and Humanities. They addressed the issues faced by the teachers in the sudden shift to the online mode of teaching, like slow internet connection, their preparedness and literacy in technology, and the changing of the syllabus to fit the online setup.

“Surprising, challenging, and threatening in a sense,” Prof Dometita described it.

They also emphasized that it is not just the students that are struggling in this online setup, but the faculty as well. “‘Yung hirap ng sitwasyon ng online class ay hindi monopolyo ng mga estudyante lang, dapat lagi rin nilang iisipin na kung nahihirapan sila, nahihirapan din ang faculty so dapat pareho nating unawain ang sitwasyon,” Prof. Dela Rosa remarked.

The chairpersons also continued to remind the students to maintain their integrity and honesty in their work, even when they are not supervised by the teachers given the limitations in this mode of teaching.

“Maging matiyaga, maging matiisin at maging mapagpasensya, at laging maging tapat sa iyong ginagawa kasi ito magiging daan ninyo sa darating na hinaharap at kung ano ang iyong tagumpay na gustong mangyari sa buhay. Hindi man namin kayo nakikita at hindi nakakasalamuha, ang magiging gabay ninyo sa online (setup) na ito ay ang pagiging tapat na mag-aaral,” Prof. Felix said in his message.

Besides the serious discussion, the chairpersons also had fun as they shared some entertaining stories they experienced in online classes. They also participated in a game of “Put Your Finger Down”.

The freshies were the stars of the third and final part of

LITERARY | p. 9

the CHASS-misan, it was by Mark Marcelo & Alysson Paraoan from BAC 2-3, Zarena Hermogeno & Michael Mendoza of BAC 1-5, and Charles Dane Del Alcazar of BS SW 1-3.

The three students shared the experiences and obstacles they faced in online learning and their way to resolve them. They also talked about their desire for the return of face-to-face classes, and their new discovery of entertainment for themselves during pandemic. Their preferences were also tested about different topics in the Fast Talk.

A certificate of recognition was given to the guests of the CHASSmisan. Some lucky attendees also received cash prizes in the giveaway raffle.

After the CHASS-misan they announced that the deadline for the CHASS logo making contest is extended, until December 10 — where the winner will be announced, on December 18.

The program also featured the talents of Blue Ravens in an open mic session and the special presentation of CHASS Got Talent Season 1 Grand Winner, Sheila Alvar.

To conclude the program, Katrina Faith Nuñez praised and showed gratitude to everyone who took part in the program and also announced the formal separation of Social Work with CHASS.

ENTERTAINMENT | p. 11 Signals

Yugto

Finally Signaling Magic. Enchanting. Media literacy.

CHASSTheCommunique

chasscommunique@gmail.com

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NEWS ‘Carry on Bonifacio’s battle cry’: NDMOs from Pamantasan join Boni Day protest

COMMUNIQUÉ The

The Official Media Publication of the College of Humanities Arts and Social Sciences - Student Council

WRITTEN BY: JANELLA SASIS

PLMayers at the demonstration of Bonifacio’s 158th birthday.

PHOTO BY: RONALYN CLARETE

Students from National Democratic Mass Organizations (NDMOs) in Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila joined the protest rally along España Boulevard, Manila to commemorate the 158th birthday of Gat. Andres Bonifacio last November 30.

Among the progressive groups who took it to the streets to rally, were Gabriela Youth PLM, Gabriela Youth PLM – CHASS, Anakbayan PLM, Anakbayan PLM – CN, Kabataan Partylist PLM, and PLM Supreme Student Council. They represented the youth in clamoring for the calls of different group sectors while embodying Bonifacio’s ideals such as, his battle against injustices.

According to the representative of PLM SSC, “Ang araw ng ika- 30 ng Nobyembre ay araw ng paggunita sa Ama ng Katipunan, at araw din ng paniningil ng masang anakpawis sa walang habas na paglapastangan sa karapatang pantao, kabuhayan, at kasarinlan ng ating mga manggagawa, magsasaka sa kanayunan, at lalo na ang mahihirap na lalo pang nalugmok sa kahirapan,” “Hindi natatapos ang ating pagiging iskolar ng bayan sa apat na sulok ng paaralan, ngunit ang tunay na diwa ng pagiging iskolar ng bayan ay ang paglilingkod sa masa at paglahok sa bawat panawagan dahil taglay natin ang karunungan na

kayang magmulat at magpakilos ng kapwa natin kabataan,” they added.

Personalities such as Ana Patricia Non from Maginhawa Community Pantry, Representative Sarah Elago from Kabataan Partylist, Antonio Tinio from Alliance of Concerned Teachers, Teddy Casiño of Bayan Muna Partylist, and Neri Colmenares of Makabayang Koalisyon ng Mamamayan were among the line of protesters.

Initially, the protesters were supposed to march from España towards Mendiola. However, the group was hampered due to the police blockade, forcing them to remain along España Boulevard.

Upholding the livelihood, rights, and freedom of Filipinos; peasants, farmers, laborers, artists, and youth sector rallied as one against the incompetence of the Duterte administration augmented further by the CoVid-19 pandemic.

For the Gabriela Youth PLM, call for genuine land reform, Php 750 minimum wage, safe school reopening, abolish National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) and Terror Law, and the condemnment of MarcosDuterte tandem in the upcoming election were lobbied.

Mission to aid, made possible

by PLM- MCSL WRITTEN BY: RANIEL PAQUINGAN

The mission to lend a helping hand and prove that the spirit of Bayanihan is still alive was indeed possible, as PLM Mass Communication Students' League successfully assisted Lumad youth and stray animals through their project, Advocates, Assemble! The T League Project T-shirts and Tote Bags for a Cause.

Profits from the t-shirts and tote bags funded three outreach programs that benefited and supported the society's underprivileged sectors, particularly special children, Lumad youth, and stray animals.

Last February 12, PLM MCSL gave an early Valentine's gift to the children of KAISAKA or Kaisahan ng Magulang at Anak na may Kapansanan Foundation in Malate, Manila, through an outreach program, “KAISAKA 2022: Building Community through the Art of Giving”. The organization has been actively conducting outreach programs for KAISAKA children for four years.

PLM MCSL also brought smiles to the Lumad youth of Save our Schools Network last April 27, at UP Diliman through their outreach program "Alpas Year 3: Kabalikat sa Pagbangon at Pagsulong para sa mga Kabataang Lumad". Since 2020,

before the pandemic started, PLM MCSL has assisted Lumad children who mostly experience discrimination and violence.

Because of this, Charlene Mhay Batongbakal, president of PLM MCSL, hopes that the organization's simple display of charity would serve as a way to spread their message and goal to others further for the Lumads to enjoy the support, care, and respect they deserve.

The organization also did not forget to give care and importance to our adorable fur babies as they conducted the "Mission PAWssible: Feeding Stray Animals With Love and Service" outreach program last April 30, which benefited rescued animals in Pet Paradise PH. “Mga ka-Maskom at Blue Ravens, alam namin kung gaano kalawak at kalakas ang power niyo to support and promote these advocacies to promote the welfare of our own people. Sa pagtulong niyo sa pag-promote nito, ay tumutulong na rin kayo sa mga komunidad na sinusuportahan natin. Sky's the limit ika nga, kaya let's always give it our all in aiding these communities.

Padayon!”, Batongbakal stated.

STUDENT PROTEST • PAGE 5

PCW Conducts Campaign to End Violence Against Women; MCSL Shows Support WRITTEN BY: ADRIAN ROBLES

The Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), with the Inter-Agency Council on Violence Against Women and their Children (IACVAWC), conducted the nation-wide observance of the annual 18Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) from November 25 to December 12, 2021.

Last year’s campaign theme was “Filipino Marespeto; Safe Spaces, Kasali Tayo” that aims to promote the Republic Act 11313 or the Safe Spaces Act to the public and private sector, strengthening the awareness on its core provisions, penalties, and mechanisms two years after the law was enacted.

According to PCW’s official website, “The Safe Spaces Act covers all forms of Genderbased Sexual Harassment (GBSH) committed in public spaces, educational or training institutions, workplace, and the online space.”

This campaign grows in relevance since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, where VAW and other forms of GBSH have significantly gained traction in digital spaces, and cases of domestic violence against women intensified as they were isolated with their abusers.

The PCW encourages the public to show solidarity through their Let’s Make this a Safe Space ground campaign and #SanaAllSpacesSafe online campaign with the intent of disseminating information about the Safe Spaces Act and Violence Against Women, and positively advocating everyone to gain solidarity and contribute to the elimination of VAW in the community.

PLM’s Mass Communications’ Student League (MCSL), showed solidarity with PCW’s campaign by raising awareness on this important matter and also highlighting the artistic capabilities of PLM’s students through “A Life Free of Violence for Women Video and Jingle Making Competition!”.

The competition encouraged students to showcase their creativity in creating videos and jingles — that advocate a safe environment for women.

The submission of entries opened on November 8, 2021 and was extended until December 8, 2021. A total of Php 12,500 worth of prizes awaited the winners of the video competition. Nathaniel Clarence Calvez and Reycel Anne Soriano took home first place and 3,000 pesos in the video competition

with their entry Sa Wakas. Jessica Naldoza won second place and 2,500 pesos with her entry Whistle. Sophia Isabela Capendit and Karen Juliane Crucillo won third place and 2,000 pesos with her entry Behind Closed Screens.

Finally, 10 consolation prize winners won 500 pesos each.

Meanwhile, in the jinglemaking competition, Jgezreel Rori Mercado and Regine Grace Bautista from BS Psychology 1-6 won first place with their jingle entitled Light the Path (VACW Free). Francine Legaspi, Gwyneth Salazar, Dianne Panergo, Mell Ablang and Frances Blanes from BA Communication 3-1 won 2nd place with their jingle entitled Fighter. Sanielyn Owaban from BA Communication 3-2 won third place with her entry Tinig ng Paglaya. Lastly Jose James Dean and Nicole Maxine Ancot from Bachelor of Public Administration and BS Social Work 1-1 were honorable mentions with their entry Mujeres y Jovenes.

The competition may be over but the fight for Women’s rights marches on towards another year, as PLM creates avenues for lasting advocacies not just in the university but also in the community.

The T League Project main poster.

PHOTO FROM: MASS COMMUNICATION STUDENTS’ LEAGUE

“Playlist” and “Ahon” star in the 2nd Installment of WAVE: Online Playfest for A.Y. 2021-2022 WRITTEN BY: JANELLA SASIS

Amidst the ongoing distance learning implemented in Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM), Bachelor of Arts in Communication (BAC) students still pursued enlivening the theater life in the Pamantasan with their online playfest entitled Playlist and Ahon streamed via Mass Communication Students’ League (MCSL), Facebook page last January 25 and January 27, respectively.

As the plays went from live to digital, 3rd-year BAC students from the College of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences (CHASS) produced

online plays as their output in their Introduction to Theater Arts subject. The play was livestreamed as part of MCSL’S WAVE: Online Playfest.

Angelyn Nicole Achay, President of BAC 3-2, spearheaded Playlist: Mga Musikang Nagbibigay Buhay featuring online plays in homage of Original Pilipino Music (OPM) as they incorporate songs of 6cyclemind, Ben&Ben, Parokya ni Edgar, Munimuni, and Noel Cabangon in their stories.

PLM MASKOM’S THEATER LIFE • PAGE 4

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The Official Media Publication of the College of Humanities Arts and Social Sciences - Student Council

NEWS

3 INDUSTRY

“Let’s hold the line together”, Maria Ressa accepts Nobel Peace Prize Award WRITTEN BY: JANELLA SASIS

2021 Nobel Peace Prize winner and Rappler CEO Maria Ressa.

PHOTO FROM: REUTERS/ELOISA LOPEZ

Recognized for being at the forefront of defending press freedom, Maria Ressa formally received the Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo last December 10.

Ressa’s achievement made history as the first Filipino to become a Nobel laureate.

Along with Russian journalist Dmitry Muratov, they shared the award given by the Norwegian Nobel Committee for “their courageous fight for freedom of expression" amidst the threat to freedom of expression worldwide.

Prior to the ceremony, Ressa encountered issues with travel restrictions posed by the government related to her pending appeal against a cyber libel case. However, the Court of Appeals ruled on December 3 that Ressa can travel outside the Philippines from December 8 to December 13 to personally accept her award in Norway.

Aside from being presented with the award, Ressa also delivered a Nobel lecture which served as her acceptance speech, where she identified the forces that placed press freedom at risk, and the actions needed to be done— to eradicate the toxic sludge in the information ecosystem.

“I helped create a startup, Rappler, turning 10 years old in January – we’re getting old – our attempt to put together two sides of the same coin that shows everything wrong with our world today: the absence of law and democratic vision for the 21st century,” she said.

Ressa and Rappler have been a target of government attacks for the past years and have faced cases ranging from tax evasion, libel, and cyber libel cases to closure order – a reality that encapsulates the state of the press in the Philippines.

Ressa also emphasized how tech giants behind social media have spread a “virus of lies to infect each of us” in the form of disinformation.

“Facebook is the world’s largest distributor of news, and yet studies have shown that lies laced with anger and hate spread faster and further than facts,” Ressa said.

She added that these companies are “biased against facts, biased against journalists” which further endangers the quality of public discourse due to the absence of truth in these platforms.

“I’ve said this repeatedly over the last five years: without facts, you can’t have truth.

Without truth, you can’t have trust. Without trust, we have no shared reality, no democracy, and it becomes impossible to deal with the existential problems of our times: climate, coronavirus, now, the battle for truth,” Ressa added.

At the end of her speech, Ressa cited actions needed to address, the present condition of the press freedom and the information ecosystem including the protection of independent journalists, utilizing technology to build platforms built from facts, and creating laws that would supervise the information dissemination in social media.

With the question, “What are you willing to sacrifice for the truth?” Ressa encouraged others to take part in holding the line to safeguard press freedom and uphold democracy in a time when it is needed more than ever.

Throughout the history of the Nobel Prize, Ressa and Muratov are the third winners in their category, succeeding Ernesto Moneta (1907) and Carl von Ossietzky (1935). The awardees of the Nobel Prize 2021 received the Nobel Prize medal, Nobel Prize diploma, and SKr1O million.

PLM CHASS joins PR Con 2021’s “Journey to PR for Good” WRITTEN BY: RANIEL PAQUINGAN

Despite the postponement last year due to the pandemic, the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP) Students’ PR Con 2021 was re-launched on November 20 with the theme “Decoding Content: The Journey to PR for Good.”

Students of public relations, communication, marketing, and advertising in the Philippines attended the online event, including students from the College of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences (CHASS) of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila.

The PR Con 2021 aims to allow participants to learn from different well-known personalities in the field of public relations— the event was divided into three parts.

First is, “Capture and Consume” which discussed the use and application of information and content.

Second, “Curate and Converse”, which tackled the proper organization of reliable information and responsibility in developing progressive discussion. Third, the “Create and Care” which combined the insights from previous parts of the program and discussed the importance of creating one’s own “PR for Good” to provide meaningful advocacy.

Mr. Norman Agatep, President of PRSP and President and Managing Director of Grupo

Agatep, started the program with a warm welcome to the delegates. After that, the first part of the webinar, “Capture and Consume,” was tackled

by Ms. Lynda Jumilla-Abalos, Executive Editor and Head of ABS-CBN News Digital. She explained how the news media adapt to the ever-changing “News and Information Media.”

Furthermore, wellknown personalities in “Social Media and the Emerging Platforms” such as Peach Natividad of Google Philippines, Neil Trinidad of Lazada Philippines, and Toff Rada of TikTok joined the discussion about this topic.

The program continued with its second portion, “Curate and Converse,” which was led by Vera Files co-founders Yvonne Chua of the Department of Journalism of the University of the Philippines and Luz Rimban of the Ateneo Asian Center for Journalism, where they tackled the “Dissecting Fake News, Trolls and Disinformation” and how to be a proactive media consumer.

“Being Digitally Ready and Responsible” was the center of the discussion led by Mr. Carlo Ople, Vice President and Head for Marketing Communications of PLDT Home and Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Unbox PH and Dr. Randy Dellosa, inhouse psychologist-psychiatrist of Pinoy Big Brother. They

Ms. Lynda Jumilla-Abalos, the Executive Editor and Head of ABS-CBN News Digital in her segment.

PHOTO FROM: PRSP STUDENTS' PR CONGRESS' FACEBOOK PAGE

shared tips to keep in mind, to use digital platforms safely and productively.

The third part of the program, “Create and Care,” portion headed by Mr. Jose Javier Reyes, film director, Mr. Erik Paolo Capistrano, professor of Business Administration at UP and Principal Investigator of the UP Korea Research Center, and Ms. Abigail Ho-Torres, Assistant Vice President and Head of Advocacy and Marketing Department of Maynilad Water Services Inc. together with South Korean Ambassador Kim Chang-Beom, they talked about “Writing Your Story and Choosing Your Journey” where they mentioned the notable popularity of K-Culture among Filipinos from food, music, and entertainment just like the worldrenowned Netflix series “Squid Game”.

The World Vision’s Advocacy and Campaigns Specialist Caroline Veronilla, Gandang Kalikasan Inc. CoFounder and President Anna Meloto-Wilk, and Mind Nation’s Head of Communications and Content and CORA Philippines Director for Communications Cat Triviño, shared their insights about “Forwarding Your Advocacy and Giving Voice for Social Good.”

Our fellow Blue Ravens Mabel Villanueva and Shane Macalanda from Bachelor of Arts in Communication with Specialization in Public Relations 4-1 served as hosts for the third part of the program. Although this is the first time that PR Con was held online, for both – the program is still meaningful and remarkable, like the previous ones.

“For me, it is really important [to join in this kind of program] kasi we are not just engaging with our fellow schoolmates but with other students from different universities, from different places around the country, and of course, most important thing is we build connections with the people in the PR world or real world. We connect and we build relationships which [are] somehow one of our goals to communicate effectively,” Macalanda said.

The issue of mental health, which is very timely due to the massive influence of social media, also left a mark on both of their minds. According to Villanueva, the phrase “Be an advocate of your own mental health” remind us to take care of ourselves as well.

POST-PRCON 2021 • PAGE 4

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EDITORIAL

The Official Media Publication of the College of Humanities Arts and Social Sciences - Student Council

ARTWORK BY: JUSTIN PAUL EVANGELISTA

PH Education Funding:

Is it adequate or needs to reevaluate?

HERE’S THE TEA: Online classes are not enough to sustain the education of Filipinos.

The pandemic stunted the world. And now, various countries started to crawl and get up on their own feet.

Among these are Japan and South Korea which are already commencing face-toface classes. But, how come the Philippine Government is not budging? Which led us to question whether the Education Sector has enough budget and if the government truly cares for the country’s educational system or if our leaders completely buried it. During the campaign period, thousands of civilians were allowed to gather in their presidential bet’s campaign rallies. But how come students who are significantly less populous than the supporters cannot attend schools to meet their basic needs?

The two-week class suspension in March 2020 stretched into two long years. And as if stuck in a time loop, the Philippines continuously struggle to transition from the current online modality to the traditional face-to-face classes.

It is undeniably disappointing that the country is among the last nations to revive

face-to-face learning after the proclamation of a national health emergency due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

The onslaught of the pandemic required clear-cut guidelines from the government, and as of February 27, 2022, the National Capital Region and 38 other areas were under Alert Level 1 after the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) approved the amendments to the guidelines on the nationwide implementation of the Alert Level System for Covid-19 response. Now, everyone can travel inside and between zonal boundaries, regardless of age or comorbidities. All businesses, groups, or events may do so — if they adhere to minimal public health requirements and utilize all available on-site or venue seats.

Furthermore, the implementation of face-to-face classes remains strictly limited. Hence, the #LigtasNaBalikEskwela campaign is still going from strength to strength. However, while online classes serve as a temporary fix, this approach poses challenges to both students and educators, especially those who are part

of a Filipino family whose mantra is “isang kahig, isang tuka”. They are left out by the ‘privileged’ who have access to reliable gadgets, internet connections, and a suitable learning environment.

According to the Department of Education, more than 27 million students have enrolled for the school year 20212022, 3.83% higher than the enrollment in the previous school year with 26.23 million enrolled students. While, in the discussion of the budget allotted for the education sector, the 2022 General Appropriations Act, which former President Rodrigo Duterte signed into law in December 2021, shows that the allocated budget for the mentioned sector is Php 788.5 billion. The same national budget supports the priority education programs as well, providing Php 14.7 billion for the Basic Education Learning Continuity Plan for the “development, reproduction, and delivery of learning modules” and Php 11.8 billion for the Computerization Program for the “procurement of ICT-related equipment.”

Though it is noteworthy that the sector of education received the most budgetary support, what is more crucial is the proper

use and execution of the said budget and its corresponding projects. It is saddening that in June 2021, Bayanihan 2 expired (originally set to expire in December 2020 but was extended) along with its funds amounting to billions. In the Department of Education’s Budget of Php 4.3 billion, only a fraction was spent while leaving some Php 446.23 million unspent, which aims to support modules, learning plans, and student subsidies.

Moreover, the government and education agencies may boast about the allocated budget for the education sector and the number of student enrollees amidst the pandemic, what matters the most is whether their plans and objectives are felt by the students, teachers, and others who are in the said sector. The call for the safe reopening of schools also calls for demanding the government take appropriate actions on the primary problem that the Filipinos are facing—the threat of COVID-19.

Calling for the safe reopening of schools is also calling for: better facilities for schools and universities that will adapt to the new normal setup of learning; COVID-19 kits for the safety of students, teachers, and personnel; and subsidies for students and wage increases for teachers. Remnants of the pandemic still crippled the countrymen, if it is not the face of the screen—the virus—the world would be seeing the faces of high price expenditures. Loads of the past systems’ complications had led to this circumstance, the poor setting of the citizenry. Yet, the answer would always be to fix the root and picture the light for other days. This goes by the common concept, the foundation of society—education.

The Philippines barely gives attention to education, though it does not mean it never strives, but the problem goes with: When will the Filipino youth, all the learners and thinkers and doers of the country will truly do what they have envisioned?

Lack of opportunity is the number one problem, there is dedication but where will they shower it? Things like facilities, competitions, and exhibitions are out of reach to most of the students. Worsened by the pandemic, not all are within cyberspace to give their ability. All of these things cost money. Providing everyone a troublefree and holistic education. Realistically speaking, the Philippines is capable when the right person that rules the department does the right thing for learners, with knowledge, skill, and empathy, Philippine quality education is not impossible.

Post-PR Con 2021

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THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES ARTS AND SOCIAL SCIENCES - STUDENT COUNCIL

ERICA CHLOE M. MAÑALAC MA. KAMILA YSABEL B. COTONER ARA JOICE M. SACE RONALYN M. CLARETE EUNICE ANNY I. MORALES HEAVEN B. MEDRANO CHARLES DANE DEL ALCAZAR

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ASSOCIATE EDITOR CIRCULATIONS MANAGER NEWS EDITOR FEATURE EDITOR LITERARY EDITOR SPORTS EDITOR

NEWS ZARENA C. HERMOGENO | RANIEL S. PAQUINGAN | ADRIAN S. ROBLES | JANELLA L. SASIS FEATURE JAMES CLARENCE M. ALBANO | JAZMINE C. ROBOSA | ROSHANNE MAE M. TEJAMO | RODELIO ANTONIO M. MALLARI LITERARY

INDUSTRY NEWS · FROM PAGE 3

“Malaki ang importansya ng mga ganitong programa na tumatalakay sa iba’t ibang tema na may kaugnayan sa pinag-aaralan natin mga mag-aaral sa CHASS. Kagaya ng mga paksang may kaugnayan news and information media, social media and emerging platforms, fake news, trolling, being digitally responsible, mental health, and advocacy ay malaking makakatulong para magkaroon tayo ng mas malalim na kaalaman,” Villanueva added.

The most awaited PR Con concluded with Jobstreet’s Sponsors

segment and closing remarks of the launch of Students Grand Prix 2022 was led by Mr. Ferdinand Bondoy, Chairman of PRSP Students’ PR Con and Grand Prix 2021, member of the PRSP Board of Trustees, and Regional Integration and Chief Executive Director of COMCO Southeast Asia.

The after-party concert featured performances from Jikamarie, Keiko Necesario, Lara Maigue, Paul Pablo, and reon. Afterwards, the winners of the social media contest and raffle winners were announced, and our fellow Haribon Shierlyn

Marifosque, won the grand prize of the new Lenovo laptop computer.

Student organizations in the country and well-known sponsors such as JobStreet, Maynilad Water Services, PLDT, Converge ICT Solutions, GCash, PayMaya, Unilab Inc., Unilab Consumer Health, Unilab Skin Sciences, Jollibee Foods Corporation, McDonald’s Philippines (Golden Arches Development Corporation), Meralco, Teleperformance, and SM Supermalls collaborated in conducting the PR Con 2021.

PLM Maskom’s Theater Life

Ahon: Paglaon, Pagkilala, Pagbangon featuring plays about challenges in life and the resiliency to rise again. The drama was the central genre of the plays such as Hiraya, Just 4 Us, Lady in Blue, Tula’t Alaala, Kindred Spirits, Bahaghari, Sa Pagitan Kita Natagpuan, Dugong Eternal, and Sign na ba ‘to?

To further interact with the audience, a game called Q&A Contest was incorporated into the event wherein questions about the plays were flashed on-screen to test the observation skills of the viewers.

Winners were announced after the event.

This year’s event succeeds the playfest last A.Y. 2020-2021 featuring SALINtablado: Pagsasalin sa Bagong Mukha ng Bagong Dula — which highlighted stories adapted and modified from classic films and stories, and SINDAK: Sining, Dulaan, at Katatakutan which showcased plays with the genre of Horror and Thriller.

The WAVE: Online Playfest has become possible with the cooperation of MCSL, and the guidance of the MCSL and Introduction to Theater Arts adviser, Professor Maychell B. Jastia.

JOSEPH LORENZO A. CERILLO | KENNETH CAESAR P. MANIKAN | CZYRENNE MALONZO | JEMELYN E. PEBRES SPORTS JERMAGNE GABRIEL D. CIEGO | SHARMAINE C. PINEDA | EDGARD JOSEPH L. SALAZAR | MIA GRACE A. SALONGA

COPYWRITERS ERICK JAMES S. CABUANG | RAVEN CASSANDRA T. DIONELA ONLINE WRITERS JONNEAH ZYRH M. ALDANA | BRIAN JAMES C. SAN RAMON CARTOONISTS JUSTIN PAUL T. EVANGELISTA | LENARD LUIS M. MIJARES | JACKILYN ROCHEL A. SANTOS LAYOUT ARTISTS DAN ALEXANDER E. ABAS | MARY JOY C. CERNIAZ | DEAN JOSEPH A. PALAPAR | MERRIE NICOLE V. SALEM

ANGELA DE JESUS HEAD MARIAH ALESSANDRA P. ANG SUPERVISING OFFICER

JAN FRANCIS G. RIVERA SUPERVISING OFFICER

PAULINE ANNE G. SALONGA SECRETARIAT

RIA LORRAINE B. TOLONGHARI SECRETARIAT

NEWS · FROM PAGE 2

The event streamed plays: Sandalan, Reset, Parabnormal, Tat Sulok, and Encountered which are under the genre of drama and musical.

Aside from watching the plays, the audience was also challenged to cite easter eggs or hidden references in each play on their game Playlist Mixdown.

Furthermore, BAC 3-1, led

by Robyn Ashley Cruz, launched

COMMUNIQUÉ The

OPINION

The Official Media Publication of the College of Humanities Arts and Social Sciences - Student Council

5

The fight is not over

”

Indeed, suppression is present in press freedom today. That is the reality. We are facing circumstances in the source of credible information in the country. And as Filipino citizens, we should stop this, call them out and fight back.

Throughout the years, press freedom has always been challenged. It has been removed and regained, and indeed the fight for freedom of the press is still not over.

Press Freedom is vital up until now, it lets people access credible information and opinions from the media without the stoppage of the government.

In the present times and amplified by the pandemic, Press Freedom in the Philippines has faced challenges that test its principles. “A worse state of press freedom” is how the Philippines was described today since it ranked 138th out of 180 countries in the 2021 World Press Freedom Index from the Commission on Human Rights (CHR). Although it was recognized to be the freest in Asia, the Philippines remains one of the most dangerous places in the world to practice journalism. This matter surfaces even more in the Duterte Administration, when

AMIHAN ARA JOICE M. SACE

The alarming toxicity in the pool of information During the pandemic, social media has been one of the main sources of easiest accessible information, making people shift into it from traditional media, the reason why propagandists and fake news peddlers eyes on it – menacing as it leads people to fallacious beliefs, confusion, and division, especially that May 2022 national elections nears.

In the previous years, disinformation on social media was already a growing concern in the Philippines. The situation became worse when the pandemic began, and more people spent more time looking through social media platforms than ever before.

These platforms became their primary source of information and a medium to voice their opinions. Because of this, some groups and individuals see it as a potential breeding ground for disinformation and propaganda to manipulate the masses.

”

Toxicity in social media has worsened as the heat in politics inflamed too. If social media has been used as a propaganda machine, it can also be subjected to sharing constructive criticisms and healthy discussions.

What the world is seeing now in the midst of the pandemic according to the World Health Organization (WHO) is an “infodemic,” a phenomenon wherein there is too much information – including false or misleading information

Student Protest NEWS · FROM PAGE 2

According to the representative of Gabriela Youth PLM, “Kaming mga kabataang kababaihan mula sa PLM kasama ng malawak na hanay ng masa ay nanawagan para sa lupa, sahod, edukasyon at karapatan. Lumahok tayo sa protesta dahil bilang kabataan, tayo ang makabagong Bonifacio ang magpapatuloy sa kanyang nasimulan.”

Elmer Labog, chairperson

broadcasting stations and news platforms were forced to shut down. Red-tagging in these news organizations became more prominent and few journalists have been detained and arrested. Without a doubt, this challenges press freedom in the Philippines. In addition, fake news prevails nowadays and that is disquieting. We must eradicate fake news because this leads to misinformed and uninformed citizens.

Indeed, suppression is present in press freedom today. That is the reality. We are facing circumstances in the source of credible information in the country. And as Filipino citizens, we should stop this, call them out and fight back.

Let us not be afraid of doing the right thing. Truthfulness must prevail even if it challenges the government because that is what the Filipino citizens deserve, honesty in information. It is also in our constitution, that is why it must

– circulating during a disease outbreak.

The pandemic is not over yet, Philippines was already even called a petri dish for disinformation. Unfortunately, people tend to easily believe what they see due to numerous factors such as they are with the same opinion as the majority, it conforms to their egos and pre-existing beliefs and opinions, or it just can be that most of them don’t have the chance to fact check their sources.

In alignment with these current dilemmas, different media organizations doubled their efforts in fighting these fabricated lies through fact-checking. One of the most active engagements nowadays is the #FactsFirstPH, which Rappler has recently joined. This collaboration of almost 120 media partners, newsrooms, civil society organizations, schools, and church groups attempts to combat disinformation online and translate fact-checking and educational information into a variety of local languages and formats. Meanwhile, Vera Files, a verified signatory of the code of principles of the International Factchecking Network (IFCN) has remained active in its fact-checking initiative.

However, these drives against fake information endlessly receive attacks from those who benefit from the deception. The strategy of those who started this black propaganda has been effective right from the moment many people began to think that fact-checkers are biased towards their chosen candidates. This is the part when citizens must be most critical of their source of information. After these fact-checkers have done their part, it is the masses’ responsibility to assess the information they know, and see what is true and what is not.

Democracy has given us the power to freedom of speech and so we should to choosing the information that we will live by. In a pool of information, there are always toxic ones disguising all along.

Toxicity in social media has worsened as the heat in politics inflamed too. If social media has been used as a propaganda machine, it can also be subjected to sharing constructive criticisms and healthy discussions. In the near election, using the gifts of technological advancement as well as democracy in the right ways will help this nation thrive in a healthy digital and real world.

of Kilusang Mayo Uno, stressed key labor issues such as low wages amidst consistent price hikes and the unkept campaign promise of Duterte on ending contractualization.

“Dapat na magkaroon ng pagtaas ng sahod. Mahalaga na ipagpatuloy ang ating pakikibaka para sa regularisasyon ng mga manggagawang kontraktwal,” Labog said.

Exposing the issues on the education sector, Jandeil Roperos, 3rd nominee of Kabataan

MA. KAMILA YSABEL B. COTONER

be practiced but unfortunately in this regime saying the truth is always seen as “fighting the government”. Let us help our journalists to share unbiased and credible news with the people. Being informed today is essential, as is knowing true from false.

Press Freedom is attached to democracy. We are in a democratic country thus we must practice journalism freely without thinking of being red-tagged and killed just by saying the truth. This fight is not yet over if we still have this kind of government. Let us clamor until the end for what is right because the voice of all the Filipinos will change everything. Our ancestors did not fight for their lives just to be caged again in a controlling regime.

Filipinos must echo the right, honest, credible, and unbiased information. Our fight for this one is not yet over, we are only starting.

KALINAW ERICA CHLOE M. MAÑALAC

Regulate the Digital Industry!

Stop Disinformation Stampede in the Philippines THE PHILIPPINES’ acclaimed democracy is insidiously turning into a political jungle, where the internet becomes an ecosystem for digital disinformation and propaganda, and where the roles in the society are segregated into preys and predators. Regardless of what resonates to different people, the political campaigns are driven by, as a 2018 study about disinformation puts it, chief disinformation architects— the Public Relations (PR) and advertising industry.

”

We cannot put all the blame and place the influencers and fake account generators on the chopping block right away.

While it is true that they are a part of the movement, their desire for financial and career survival is weaponized by the strategists to propagate disinformation in the country.

One of the powers vested upon the Filipino people is their right to choose their leaders, every three years and six years for the local and national positions respectively. Choosing a candidate means believing in their values and platforms that goes beyond the election period. It defines one’s principles and how they will be living during the term of the proclaimed leaders.

Aspiring public servants with the help of their PR agencies blast their agendas in all the touchpoints they can utilize to reach the people— wherein key messages are embedded with disinformation and revisionist narratives. This makes a sound

Partylist, cried foul against the shortcomings of the administration on their preparation for safe school reopening, continuous neglection towards teachers’ plight, and the few numbers of approved schools to conduct limited face-to-face classes.

According to Roperos, “Mahigit isang taon na nang pinasara ang mga paaralan, ngunit hanggang sa kasalukuyan ay hindi pa rin handa ang administrasyon sa ligtas na pagbubukas ng klase.”

DALUMAT

judgment during the campaign period almost impossible with the noise that distracts the people— from their inherent right of accessing accurate information in preparation to participate in fair and just governance. But it works, as the political scene in the Philippines is image-oriented.

In the 2018 study, Architects of Networked Disinformation: Behind the Scenes of Troll Accounts and Fake News Production in the Philippines by authors Jonathan Ong and Jason Vincent Cabañes, they narrated the “deep stories” of the workers positioned at different levels of the hierarchy and clarified that this happens in a specific sector within the broad field of advertising and PR, and never isolated in a specific camp as the act is normalized that it is scattered in different political camps and parties. The system runs on a hierarchy wherein it was led by the PR and advertising firms or the chief architects who craft brand bibles and strategies and then cascade them to the influencers and community-level fake account generators.

We cannot put all the blame and place the influencers and fake account generators on the chopping block right away. While it is true that they are a part of the movement, their desire for financial and career survival is weaponized by the strategists to propagate disinformation in the country. The continuous economical turmoil ordinary Filipinos are facing are used against them– holding them at gunpoint. Thus, arguing with them on social media does little to no avail. It is the chief disinformation architects and their political bosses that needs utmost regulation.

The power of digital marketing is evidently harnessed especially during the 2016 elections. Being wary of the influencers to follow and netizens to interact with is one way to halt the spread. But most of all, the government should require a campaign finance regulation wherein politicians must turn in their digital advertising expenses.

The Public Relations and Advertising industry must also enhance its regulations and produce an elections code of conduct and sustained by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC). This will concretize the law and revive the authentic principles of the PR and advertising industry. After all, technology is not inherently evil and unfair, it is humans who embed unjust values in it.

With the prevalence of attacks towards youth activists, Alicia Lucena from Youth Act Now Against Tyranny stood up against the NTF-ELCAC — which has been the source of these attacks. Lucena experienced these attacks firsthand, from red-tagging to being forcibly taken due to being an activist.

“Sa pangunguna ng NTF-ELCAC, winawaldas nila ang pera ng taong bayan para lamang mang-red-tag,” Lucena said.

After the program of the demonstrators, police officers allowed them to march towards Welcome Rotonda by 5 pm. Aside from the protest in Manila, other progressive groups staged their own protests in various provinces around the Philippines with regards to the observance of Bonifacio Day.

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COMMUNIQUÉ The

LITERARY

THE COST OF 21st CENTURY WRITTEN BY: KENNETH CAESAR MANIKAN ARTWORK BY: LENARD LUIS MIJARES

The Official The Official Media Publication of the College of Humanities Arts and Social Sciences - Student Council

21

st-century living offers a variety of motions and expectations that may seem very challenging in a personal narrative, but trust me, all these are required in this era. One of these is Media Literacy that enables an individual to strictly dissect information whether it is served via social media, print media, or simply conversations. Of course, contributing factors will always be the “lamb sauce” since one would never exist without the presence of its predecessors or its constant evolution.

I can safely assume that right now, we are under the simulation of a war with the help of the ongoing rampage of technological and informational evolutions. Fake news, a word that destroys the credibility of information served to its hosts.

When we examine situations, facts are known to be the game-changer for this series. It provides solidified evidence that enhances our reasons, which in turn supports the foundation of our preferences.

But when it comes to opinions, being questioned and asked for validities to substantiate, your claim will always happen. The way we understand situations and rationales. It has different forms and opinion is one of its forms and in this part, this is where we differ from one another.

As we continue to converse, we come up with different assumptions whether it may

be about the person or how the person understands the variety of the concepts presented.

The sentiment that everyone has the right to express their opinion will always be a universal concept, but seeing someone neglecting the truth and stating

THE IMPORTANCE OF MEDIA LITERACY WRITTEN BY: JOSEPH LORENZO CERILLO

E

verywhere you walk, you will come across many sorts of media.

From the movies you’ve watched, the books you’re reading—we can’t deny we are exposed to the variety of media.

The ability to access, analyze, evaluate, and create media is referred to as media literacy. Media communication has evolved into a powerful force in today’s society, enabling the intake of vast amounts of data. It is critical for us, media users, to comprehend, interpret, and use the information we received.

Yet, is media literacy important? Does the media create changes to our lives? How does the media influence our lives?

Let’s discuss how media literacy plays a significant role in our lives!

Media Literacy trains you to double-check information, it considers opposing viewpoints and evaluates material precisely. By assessing the accuracy of an information you get aware about different sides of the story. It allows you to think objectively and accept others’ perspectives— that will broaden your understanding.

Media Literacy allows you to think critically, it helps to restrain yourself with persuasion techniques. By critical thinking, you can determine whether the information you see makes sense and familiarize if a

certain topic hasn’t been included. In addition, it helps you to gather and construct your ideas to strengthen your claim.

Every story and piece of information you encounter has two sides; and forming your opinion subjectively; gives you a skewed perspective on the topic at hand. Knowing both sides of a topic can not only keep you neutral in debates, but also reduce bias.

Media Literacy encourages you to be responsible with information you share. We have the freedom to like, comment on, and share posts on the internet, but it also comes with a lot of risk. Knowing the potential consequences of each piece of information-that can be created online also means that you are responsible to choose what to share, since incarrucate context creates misinterpretation that quickly spreads.

Media Literacy informs the audience about the impact of a certain culture.

From billboards to films we’ve seen, the media is liable to promote our culture in various ways. Books, oral tradition, and other types of media: an example, used to preserve fairy tales and history all throughout the world. According to the UP College of Mass Communication, movies are more than just a source of amusement; they are also strong forces that can influence a nation’s consciousness. You can also watch or listen to music online, which is an art form, tends to

represent the society from whence it arose.

Media Literacy in active engagement in public affairs. Having knowledge on your surroundings, and using social media as a platform to voice and educate individuals. Provides the ability to participate in public conversations, where positive and negative social media reactions-tend to influence the collective opinions of other people on a given issue.

Media Literacy inspires you to create your own content. Every Facebook status or tweet we write is, in fact, a type of media. You may turn a piece of knowledge into something by what you share with any post you share attached reaction; that can be positive or negative.

I n d i v i d u a l l y, Media Literacy created different influences on our lives, that can be complicated and continuing phenomena.

As a result, it’s critical to realize some of the challenges that appear frequently in these stories.

It’s essential for us to comprehend, translate, and use the information we get as media consumers.

REFERENCES: Fortun, L. (2018, September 21). 8 Reasons Why Media Literacy is Important. Edukasyon.Ph. Retrieved December 7, 2021, from https://www. edukasyon.ph/blog/8reasons-why-medialiteracy-is-important

S

I

GN

WRITTEN BY: HEAVEN MEDRANO

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it’s an action against their political idols?

Now that’s where things go south I suppose.

Right from the very start, this was never a simple war between rationales and beliefs with a touch of aspirations. The complexity of the war we are all participating in is very outstanding. For instance, the scenario wherein individuals would give credit to content that is purely based on opinions and such, Does it ring a bell? Of course. They would stand on their grounds and give credit to legitimate information as an attack on their political aspirants.

Everyone is able to become media literate. We differ from time, personality, or even rationales but we can still meet in an angle offering the sense of congruent perspective. Poisons are varied from common to rare and each of them offers a different effect from one another. Severity and duration should always be kept in mind. Same as Media Literacy, the poison was already inside its veins. Circulating as time goes by. Contributing to finding out the cure would always be the most preferable way but as we all know, it would still be your personal preference. If you want change, the mirror offers the sign that it starts from a personal narrative.

ALS

lectronic. Connecting. Modern City.

A fascinating one.

Because even the earth’s core is no longer a mystery, What’s next is the bottom of the sea.

Signaling Signaling Signaling Signaling Earth as a mechanical nature, Advancement as a technological lecture, Misinformation is the enemy of this allure!

Signaling Signaling breaking the system

ARTWORK BY: JACKILYN ROCHEL SANTOS

Phony. Rolling. Contemporary screen.

A treacherous one.

Because there are no bloodier than the deaths of the counterfeit spirit, But what’s next is the renaissance, a call for literate citizenry.

Signaling Signaling Finally Signaling Magic. Enchanting. Media literacy.

A dazzling path of intelligence and emotion, Inquiries end with periods, but this is not the finale.

Television—technological revolution!

COMMUNIQUÉ The

The Official Media Publication Publication of the College of the College of Humanities of Humanities Arts and Arts Social and Social Sciences Sciences - Student - Student Council Council

WRITTEN BY: KENNETH CAESAR MANIKAN

YUGTO

ENTERTAINMENT

7

ARTWORK BY: LENARD LUIS MIJARES & JACKILYN ROCHEL SANTOS

TALAKayan:

Talak na may Patutunguhan WRITTEN BY: JOSEPH LORENZO CERILLO

“Gusto mo ba ng talak na may patutunguhan?” That is the main question of the PLM Mass Communication Students’ League (MCSL)—which gives them the motivation to generate a variety talk show; that has a genre of combined entertainment and education. As they shared different ideas about what program they’ll generate— it led them to launch a variety show entitled “Iskominute: A Voter’s Education Series #TALAKayan: Ano?

BEHIND THE BEANS: THE STORY OF CHASS PODCAST SERIES #SABADOBEANS WRITTEN BY: JOSEPH LORENZO CERILLO

LUIS VALENZUELA

HAZELLE MONTEVERDE

#SabadoBeans main promotional poster and #SabadoBeans hosts pubmat.

PHOTO FROM: PLM COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES, ARTS, AND SOCIAL SCIENCES

SATURDAY NIGHT, a group of people are declaring an artistic revolution through a podcast.

Through the blue-lit screen of their gadgets, headphones, and microphones, they allow creativity and valuable information about the communication and entertainment industry gracefully flow into the young minds of future communicators. They talk about anything and everything under the industry’s sun: film production, radio jockeying, song writing, you name it!

And there are beans popping into the listeners’ brain each passing minute—ah! Can’t wait for another episode!

It has always been nice, listening, and laughing over conversations— something you’d experience in a weekend night hangout. But, this isn’t the typical Saturday night out. We are learning while chilling with a bunch of people exchanging ideas relating to the undergraduate programs of the College of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences through a podcast.

Hanna Daniel, one of the minds behind the Saturday program believes that it is truly golden to have a radical learning method to blend fun and education and minimize intimidation when faced with new information. She describes it as, “A podcast series of chill and laid back, yet educational projects, in a light conversational manner.”

In making CHASS’s very own podcast, #SABADOBeans, the team researched and mustered potential guests to converse their relevant knowledge with the courses under CHASS. After reaching out to the best choices; they proceed on filming via Zoom, and launching each episode live to interact with the audience.

Teamwork plays a significant role, since crafting a podcast is no cakewalk– people need to team up to render all the elements needed from formulating themes, scripts, writing, and editing.

This incredible work is headed by Hanna Daniel, Hanna Calma, and in cooperation with the cohead Luis Valenzuela, who’s also one of the hosts together with Hazelle Monteverde. Along with other committee heads namely: Bianca Ventura, Kathryn Orgasan, Fiona Fernandez, and Immanuel Lim, and all the committee members, they are able to produce a fun and fruitful podcast for the college. #SABADOBeans is a fulfilling process that has opened the latches, exposing students to meeting great people in the industry and allowing them to craft their own path in the future. No wonder, it was a light bulb moment for Luis Valenzuela to finally do the program with their team, “We want to show everyone that there is something in this kind of industry, that every job, or profession we talk about here is not a joke,” he affirmed, dedicated to show the naysayers that the communication and entertainment industry will continue to flourish.

As part of the organization’s Voter education series, Brian James San Ramon (BAC 1-7) and Maria Czietherine Panghunasan (BAC 1-4) host the Iskominute session #TALAKayan together with BA Communication students from different year levels as guest speakers.

SCREENGRAB FROM: ISKOMINUTE LIVE - PLM MASS COMMUNICATION STUDENTS’ LEAGUE

Iskomunite: A Voters Education Series, was the first broadcast on December 6, 2021, followed by part two which aired on December 21, 2021, on the Facebook page of PLM Mass Communication Students’ League. The show was hosted by the two spectacular 1st-year students from Bachelor of Arts in Communication (BAC), Brian James San Ramon BAC 1- 7 and Maria Czietherine Paghunasan BAC 1-4.

The main focus of the show— was to educate and share political perspectives.

This series will help students and other citizens; to assess their chosen future leaders that they think can create changes in our country. Also, it will guide the viewers to know their responsibilities as voters and as Filipino citizens. To make the talk show more engaging and enlightening— they invited various students from 1st year to 2nd Year from Bachelor of Arts in Communication, at the same time registered voters, as a participant.

The flow of the show highlights; how to choose a better leader and the qualities of a good leader. Of course! The talk show wouldn’t be complete if there were no questions from the host about the topic. They produce several questions that are related to the discussion, which are answered by their chosen participants.

All answers of the participants are based on their own experiences and observations in the public. Followed by discussions of responsibilities as voters.

Listening to this kind of variety talk show which aimed to guide citizens, was very appealThee all know the election for the

next president is almost near and many of the aspirants are making their way— on how they will court people to vote for them and show that they are deserving for the position.

Many Filipinos nowadays are confused and lack knowledge about how to choose a good leader—a person who’s not running just for the power but to aid the neverending social issues we have. This show is a guide for them to observe the performance of the candidate and criticize the strength and weaknesses of their capabilities.

Additionally, people nowadays, are susceptible to being victimized by fake news which is easily influenced and believe anything that they see on social media. This kind of thinking will weaken the knowledge of the people in terms of the importance of the election in our future lives.

As a student who watched and listened to this variety talk show—I could say that it helped me to gain insights —that will guide me for the upcoming election. This variety talk show strengthens my belief that I will vote wisely and choose the leader who will help the Filipino people. We should vote according to the needs of our country, not just because they’re popular. As a student who seeks political learning, as a citizen of this country, our vote is essential to the future of the Philippines.

“Tandaan natin na makapangyarihan ang bawat boto mula sa atin. Gamitin natin ito ng tama at laging isipin ang kapakanan ng mas nakararami bago ang ating sarili. Sa darating na eleksyon boboto tayo bilang isang Pilipino...... para sa ating bansang minamahal.”- Brian James San Ramon, host.

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COMMUNIQUÉ The

FEATURES

The Official Media Publication of the College of Humanities Arts and Social Sciences - Student Council

The Mother Who Ignites the Spark WRITTEN BY: JAMES CLARENCE ALBANO

T

he year 2020 is full of unexpected changes that shifted the way people live. The world has faced catastrophes and people find themselves hoping to wake up to a normal morning again.

Due to the Covid-19 virus, employees, artists, politicians, and most especially students have to quickly adapt to changes. The academic year was a rough patch for the students as the blurry transition from the traditional classroom setting to the online class setting raised several struggles such as financial challenges and those who are lost with an unclear destination brought by the new mode of learning.

The students of PLM College of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences are not an exemption.

But in the middle of that uncertainty, a grand adventure has been crafted— The Communiqué.

The interim CHASS-SC 2020 has planned the establishment of the official publication of CHASS to fulfill the vision of the well-loved Prof. Ludmila Labagnoy; the former Dean of the College of Mass Communication, former adviser of the CHASS Student Council, and the most compassionate mentor anyone could ever wish for. Many students regard her as ‘Nanay Ludz’ as her motherly smile and affection to her mentees inspires them to strive for excellence and be a better person each day.

Aside from her words of wisdom, she is the reason behind the establishment of the official publication of CHASS— her guidance has become their inspiration to pursue the College’s Publication.

Any successful endeavor comes with hurdles, the Student Council of CHASS spent months crafting the editorial policies to make sure that it serves its utmost purpose for the editorial board.

“No, we didn’t expect that it would require much time,” Kate Nuñez, the CHASS Student Council’s President said. This substantiates that planning a publication and how it will uphold excellence for the betterment of the student community requires a wave of patience and robust determination.

Hurdles are inevitable in any journey, but these rough paths became an opportunity for CHASS-SC to profoundly plan the official establishment of The Communiqué.

Finally, the time for the College of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences’ very own publication found the light this October 2021. The quill of every Blue Ravens will finally be used with the initiative and guidance of Nanay Ludz, the hard work of CHASS-SC, and the cooperation of CHASS students in making the vision come to life.

Currently, the Editorial Board is composed of 32 members and on its way to embark on a long awaited journey.

PROF. LUDMILA ‘LUDZ’ LABAGNOY PHOTO COURTESY: ELVERT BAÑARES

IT’S A BEAUTIFUL THING WHEN CAREER AND PASSION

COMES TOGETHER WRITTEN BY: ROSHANNE MAE TEJAMO

A

noteworthy chapter has come to unfold-- as for the next academic year, Bachelor of Science in Social Work will start to fly on its own and establish their own School for Social Work, parting ways with the College of Humanities and Social Science which became their home for years.

After careful planning and consideration, the PLM Board of Regents approved— the proposal to broaden the opportunities for every student who aspires to enter the Pamantasan and pursue their dreams. This reform and expansion requires improvements from every aspect such as hiring additional faculty and staff; to cater additional enrollees for the upcoming years. However, the Department of Social Work is ready to reach for the moon.

“Sobrang laki ng naging part ng CHASS and CHASS-SC para mas maging active ulit ang department namin,” Berielle Irish Galanga, President of Junior

Sr. Luis Cruda with Social Work Students Batch 2018 PHOTO FROM: JUNIOR SOCIAL WORKERS’ ASSOCIATION OF THE PHILIPPINES - PLM

Social Workers Association of the Philippines - PLM and now in her Junior year inside the Pamantasan. According to her, one of her most memorable events of the Department of Social Work was its first partnership with College of Humanities and Social Science - Student Council’s Annual Outreach Program that was conducted in Boy’s Town Complex. That one day event created a huge impact on then freshman student Galanga as she was able to be part not only on the event day itself, but literally from the start.

Undoubtedly, the Department of Social Work had an exquisite time under the College of Humanities and Social Science and it is truly remarkable, yet as we always say, growth is the only thing that’s inevitable in this world, and parting ways is a part of it. The CHASS Community will always be here to support and root for you. This is not a goodbye, but simply till we meet again!

COMMUNIQUÉ The

FEATURES

The Official Media Publication of the College of Humanities Arts and Social Sciences - Student Council Publication of the College of Humanities Arts and Social Sciences - Student Council

9

A Simple Name That Brought Hope WRITTEN BY: JAMES CLARENCE ALBANO

ARTWORK BY: DEAN JOSEPH PALAPAR [Blurred] BSP main poster PHOTOS FROM: PLM COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES ARTS AND SOCIAL SCIENCES - STUDENT COUNCIL

T

he name Bente Singko Project is undeniably effortless. It doesn’t need to be fancy, to make it eyecatching to people. It might be simple, but behind it—was the immense impact it gives to the lives of many.

In the year 2020, the name Bente Singko Project was first used. The former CHASS SC chose this, to start a donation drive with the aim to help the frontliners.

Unexpectedly, the amount gathered was far more than what had been thought. In the same year, the Bente Singko Project continued, donation drive for the victims of the typhoon Ulysses— which estimated more than one hundred thousand pesos. This had been the reason why the current CHASS SC decided to reuse the same name for the donation drive but this time, with the goal to help CHASS student body.

The Bente Singko Project was established by the current CHASS SC, with the desire—to solve the internet connection problem of those CHASS students, who belong to the lower-income class— by providing data allowance. It is one of the banner projects of the CHASS

SC that will act as a continual contribution campaign as well as a means for supporting a student.

Despite having a strong vision of supporting their co-Blue Ravens, the CHASS SC has also faced hurdles, specifically financial status.

“The main challenge was where would we get all the money needed to support the data needs of our students,” Ms. Katrina Faith Nuñez, the CHASS SC President said in the interview. However, as this pandemic brought catastrophes to the lives of many, the BSP has strongly stood as a symbol of hope and humanity.

The CHASS SC, conducted a series of donation drives to consistently support the project’s objective.

Professors, CHASS’ Department Chairs and even students have lent their support to this cause. Mr. John Lemuel P. Gardose, one of the PLM Social Work Alumnus and the CareGo had financially contributed to the success of the project as one of their sponsors.

Other than the above-mentioned people who donated to this cause, the project would not have been possible without Mr. Francisco Chingcuanco, the project’s primary contributor. He gave a total of PHP30,000.00 to the Bente Singko Project’s two batches. His genuine actions resulted in the success and consistent help of the Bente Singko Project to its Blue Ravens beneficiaries. This project has a total budget of PHP48,174.00, which is the largest budget acquired.

The BSP currently has 19 beneficiaries that underwent an interview and processing of documents for validation.

It’s undeniably true that the name Bente Singko Project is quite a simple one. But the project itself proves that a simple one could make a huge light of hope to the lives of many with the right objectives and dedication. It’s not the glittery words that count, it’s about the efforts, the perseverance, and the commitment that makes a project a successful one— and the CHASS Student Council surely knows that.

“SH RE WHAT YOU HAVE!”

- SHEILA ALVAR

CHASS GOT TALENT SEASON 1 GRAND WINNER

WRITTEN BY: EUNICE ANNY I. MORALES

W

ant to share your talents but too shy to perform in front of the crowd? This is your sign to test the waters as the winner of CHASS Got Talent Season 1, Ms. Shiela Alvar gave her insights about the said contest.

Her eye-awakening performance of “Sisikat ka Iha” by Bita and the Botflies which scrutinize the life of prostitutes moved the judges.

SHEILA ALVAR SCREENGRAB FROM: CHASS GOT TALENT SEASON 1 LIVE PLM COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES, ARTS, AND SOCIAL SCIENCES

“...That time may project kami about sa parang gagawa kami ng something na issue then sabi ko sa prof ko i-cover ko na lang yung sisikat ka iha by bita and the botflies, kasi about naman siya sa mga prostitutes then ayon parang two birds with one stone…”

Ms. Alvar said that she actually did not have any plans to join. However, while scrolling in her social media feed, she saw the post and went with the flow. “...

Inagos lang nung vibe na sumali parang nag-checkout ka nang wala namang pera.”

“Napanood ko ibang performance nung mga time na ‘yon and akala kong mananalo yung 1st place kasi ang ganda nung pagkakacover niya nung song…”

Amidst the confusion on why her friends are congratulating her, it was because little did she know that her delivery provided just the right amount of sensitivity yet mirrored the art of the piece itself “...Nung nag open ako nung fb that time ang dami na

nagta-tag sa akin kala ko kung ano na nangyari, nanalo na pala ako” CHASS Got Talent Season 1 gave Ms. Alvar her well-deserved spotlight even though she did not expect that she would hail as the winner. The contest motivated her to perform more and boosted her confidence since she is not the type of person to post her covers on her social media accounts.

As she spread her wings, Ms. Alvar left a golden lesson: “Dami ko gusto sabihin, kasi it’s not about the wins na nakukuha mo eh yung experience and yung moment na nandon ka nagpeperform and also SHARE WHAT YOU HAVE! minsan ka na lang makita ng mundo, sana gawin mo yon sa paraan na gusto mo.” With that being said, would you dare to also share what you have?

SPORTS

COMMUNIQUÉ The

The Official Media Publication of the College of Humanities Arts and Social Sciences - Student Council

PLM HARIBONS E-SPORTS GET SOME SHOOTERS AS THEY LAUNCH THEIR FIRST CODM MULTIPLAYER TRYOUT WRITTEN BY: MIA GRACE A. SALONGA

Recently, the PLM Haribons E-Sports held their Call of Duty Mobile try out last January 15. The application happened through the use of Google Forms which started on January 11, and ended on the midnight of January 14. Numerous students have applied and aimed to be a part of the CODM Multiplayer Team. The requirements of the said try out are 1, A Bonafide PLM Student; 2, Should be active and competitive; 3, Should be a phone user (since iPad users weren’t allowed to partake in the game because of the difference in the screen ratio) and; 4, One should have good communication

skills to establish unity and oneness in the team they belong to.

The players then were divided into eleven (11) teams consisting of a maximum of five (5) members each and played three (3) different game modes in the multiplayer which were Hardpoint, Search and Destroy, and Domination. All of the players were included in a Messenger group for efficient communication. It was led by Mark Joshua Obial who was the one to supervise and organize the said event. Selected players to join the CODM Multiplayer Team were chosen based on their skills in their scheduled

game regardless of whether they are in the winning or losing team.

Out of 53 aspiring applicants only 21 were chosen to be part of the All Boys Team (7); All Girls Team (7) and; Mixed Team – which consists of both boys and girls (7). Despite the many applicants who were not included in the CODM Multiplayer team, many have established friendships and acquaintances from different colleges, and players who partake in the said event have enjoyed playing with one another even when most of them are strangers to each other.

Screengrab and Scrim results of the match.

PHOTO COURTESY: PLM HARIBON E-SPORTS | MARK JOSHUA OBIAL

PLM BIKERS’ GROUP: A SPONTANEOUS HOBBY TURNED INTO CAMARADERIE WRITTEN BY: EDGARD JOSEPH L. SALAZAR

Bicycles have reached their ‘boom’ in the earliest days of the pandemic due to restrictions on public transport in the Philippines, which greatly impacted many commuters. Filipinos resolved this mobility issue by pedaling their way to their destinations.

Apart from being a means of transportation that can be done daily, cycling has a lot of benefits such as: maintaining good health and at the same time helping the environment by reducing pollution. Even so, through this common interest, it could spark an initiative for cyclists alike to create a bond among themselves.

The Beginning In the summer of 2021, Carl Sarmiento, a Real Estate management student, initiated a conversation in an exclusive Facebook group made for PLM students. Filoteo Santos, a Communications student specializing in Public Relations, was one of the founding members of the group, which now has 25 active members and is still growing.

Santos’ interest in biking began in 2015, and since then he’s been on the lookout for a companion on his rides until he became a Haribon. The search was finally over when he joined the group, as he fondly recalls. “Talagang gusto ko makasama ang mga PLMayers

(sa rides), kaya I took the opportunity nung nagpost si Karl Sarmiento.”

(I wanted to be with my fellow PLMayers on my bike rides; thus, I took the opportunity when I saw the post of Karl Sarmiento.)

Spontaneity and pedaled destinations Most people prefer planning things ahead of time before taking action, to avoid unnecessary mishaps.

But for the PLM Bikers’ group, there is no such thing as planning, as they just let life surprise them and just let their legs pedal their way.

For Santos, “Spontaneity” is the sole foundation of their rides, either long or short routes. “Yung biglang yaya lang…Uy! Tara Tagaytay tayo! Sige tara! Sino G?”.

(Only sudden invites…Let’s ride to Tagaytay! Let’s go!

Who’s Game?)

He explains why they rather have unplanned rides “Di na namin pinag paplanuhan ng matagal kasi pag nagplano ng matagal maraming outside factors na mangyayari…(like) Uy di ako pinayagan (sumama), uy mukhang uulan, uy mukhang may lockdown na naman next week.”

(We do not plan ahead of time because when it is planned several outside factors happen…like, I was not allowed to join, it looks like it’s going to rain, it seems like there is

Bikers pose along (insert place) for a group photo.

PHOTO COURTESY: PLM BIKERS FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: JOSE ANTONIO TILOS | JOHN LYNARD DELEON | NICKO SOTO | JEROME PAGSOLINGAN | MAGGIE TRINIDAD | JEKO YARZA | FILOTEO SANTOS

going to be a lockdown next week.)

Currently, the group’s favorite route is from PLMMOA (Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila – Mall of Asia).

For long rides, they pretty much explored the province of Bulacan, having visited the Barasoain Church and the municipality of Doña Remedios Trinidad.

Ensuring safety Although cycling has a lot of benefits for both physical and mental health, it is still undeniable that road crashes are prevalent.

In order to minimize the risk of being in danger, one must “Always be alert!”, Santos exclaims. He tells that when on road, “Basta sa gilid lang kayo (cyclists), hayaan nyo na yung kotse…sa kanila na yung daan. Gilid na lang tayo wag na tayo masyadong palaban, wag na mainit ulo, hayaan nyo na lang.” (Cyclists must stay near the pavement, just let the cars…let them occupy the road. We should stay on the side and maintain our cool, just leave them be.)

Apart from wearing safety gear (Helmet and elbow/knee pads), having a companion while on the road provides a different kind of safety while enjoying the ride.