

Editor-in-Chief: Francine Denisse D. Palomar
Associate Editor (English): Eunice Loraine D. Nolas
Associate Editor (Filipino): Yun M Bayotas
Managing Editor: Nicole Razzan S. Galilea
Online Editor: Allexandra U Dasmariñas
Head of Literary Folio: Jacelle Anne S. Geonanga
Assistant Head of Literary Folio: Ericah M Villacarl
Feature Editor: Lois Angella D. Manansala
Junior Feature Editor: Miles U. Guancia
News Editor: Kayla Maye S Juanga
Filipino Editor: Kaela Dawn R. Malaki
Junior Filipino Editors: Vanessa S Toboro & Paul Asi C Hitali
Science and Technology Editor: Jeraldine B. Miranda
Head of Creatives Team: Aneeka Samantha B Yue Sin
Head Layout Artist: Shara Louise D. Dumali
Layout Artist: Bea Isabelle B Mendoza
Editorial Cartoonist: Marriane Marie P. Camarino
Photojournalists: Ralf Geric E Esporsado & Jemiel P Porras
Editorial Assistants: André Aragorn Y. Figueras, April
Diesmartis M. Macantan, Jamaica Jade V. Senagonia, Jessielyn Princess M Evangelista, Katrina Lovel B Dacula, Kyra Rose S. Miranda, Maya Akia D. Ortega, Renee Belle D.
Santiago, Ric Jan N Gabales & Zoe B Loste
Adviser: Dr. Jeannemar Genevive Yap-Figueras
AAboutTheCourier AboutTheCourier boutTheCourier
The Courier is a non-profit, non-political, non-religious organization exclusive to the students of the College of Arts and Sciences, established to be an outlet of students’ ideas and a source of reliable information, to develop members’ potentials, and to promote camaraderie among the members of the publication
This year’s zine follows a mixed media approach combining vibrant illustrations with cutouts and photos for a visual experience that sets it apart from past releases, and marks a new era for The Courier The cover page embodies the publication, especially our strength and creativity as we come back better than ever
To our dearest CASimanwas, it is with immense pride that I present to you the Comeback issue of The Courier Zine As Chief Editor and a graduating student of AY 2023–2024, I feel as though this issue’s theme is one that befits the whirlwind of the last academic year We have had the privilege of finally being able to participate in activities both internal and external in full force once more, battling the stagnancy forced upon us by the pandemic, emerging stronger than ever and forging new connections
Truthfully, it’s been quite some time since the last prominent display of our college’s notable events (and accolades) throughout the school year, but this issue signifies a turning point "The Comeback" is more than a mere thematic label it's a tangible reality We at The Courier aim to represent the College of Arts and Sciences as exactly who we are: a diverse community reemerging with renewed vigor in all aspects, from physical athleticism to intellectual prowess, and of course, the creative heart that lies inside us all
Having been a part of The Courier for the majority of my college years, I have long admired the sheer range of talents housed by the College of Arts and Sciences, and feel immensely lucky to have had the opportunity to work with some of the finest and most creative journalists from the halls of Quezon and Rizal. In large part, this zine serves as a platform that showcases student journalism transcending the confines of traditional news reporting
Within these pages, you'll find a recap of some of the most notable, news-worthy events in the College of Arts and Sciences, as well as insightful feature articles that dive into everything from groundbreaking advancements in science and technology to captivating narratives about our diverse community. We've got opinion pieces that will underscore pressing matters, and of course, a healthy dose of sports coverage to celebrate our CASimanwas’ athletic prowess.
I invite you to embark on this journey with us. This zine is yours to explore, to learn from, and to contribute your own voice to the ongoing story of The Courier. This resurgence is not just for The Courier; it's for all of us
On behalf of the entire editorial team, here's to The Comeback – a comeback of creativity, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of the College of Arts and Sciences
Sincerely,
Francine Denisse D. Palomar Editor-in-Chief, The Courier
CAS rises as Pag-iririmaw 2023 champs
WVSU CAS acad fields rank high in Region VI
CAS bets cop both Pag-iririmaw crowns, queen locks threepeat reign
Ilonggo progressives call for justice in 51st Martial Law anniv
WVSU PolSci studes bag first DILG-LGRRC 6 virtual debate gold
WVSU, MSU collab for post-pandemic return migration, reintegration forum
Eras reimagined: CAS akwe greets new acad year
WVSU joins Oikos’ food systems and rural dev’t confab
Kabataan Party rep graces WVSU educational budget forum
Panay advocates meet for oil price hike, PUV phaseout forum
Mananayaw ng CAS, pumapangalawa sa UDays Street Dance Competition
Maria is every woman: WVSU-LT unveils take on urban tale
WVSU Garners 23 RMicro grads
Ilonggo progressives decry PUVMP and jeepney phaseout in protest, transport caravan
ASSEM vice chair leads lit workshop for grade 3 Tigbauanons
Unopposed USA sweeps ASSC, shares rep seats with SAMASA
Questions Left Unanswered
Does Politics Have A Surname? “May Apelyido Ba Ang Politika?”
Prompting our Way to a Diploma
Persequor laude
Huwag Alipinin ang Hari ng Kalsada
BEAMING TRIUMPH FROM THE HEM OF THE SOCIETY: A TUMANDOK VALEDICTORIAN
Scrolling Past
Can’t Beat This Heat… Or Can We?
Beyond March: Celebrating Women YearRound
Akwe-culture, Explained PAGPAMUGON SANG TAGA-CAS: University Days 2024 Recap
Mas Mabisang Katulong ng Kolehiyala’t Kolehiyalo, Tablet o Laptop?
Redefining Greatness: WVSU swimmers conquered
in National SCUAA Meet CASimanwas in RSCUAA: Glimpse through the Athletes’ Lenses
Smashing their
by: Francine Denisse D. Palomar
The yellow banner is waved on high!
After a long and thrilling day of merrymaking, CASimanwas took the center stage of WVSU’s Cultural Center in celebration of their reemergence as the Overall Champion of Pag-iririmaw 2023 last September 22. This win marks the second consecutive year that the College of Arts and Sciences has taken home this coveted title a testament to their rich talents, creativity, and unwavering passion.
Pag-iririmaw 2023: Super West, a university-wide event eagerly awaited by all students, kicked off that morning with yellow-blooded dancers proudly raising their flags amidst the cloudburst that graced the campus Not even the sudden downpour of rain could dampen the heroic spirit of our CASimanwan Mass Dance and Street Dance participants Braving the rainslick pavement with gusto, CAS students charged toward the Grandstand to the tune of Sandwich’s Sugod, backed by the cheers and yells of their fellow CASmates, all while sporting bright costumes reminiscent of the Filipino comic book superhero Pedro Penduko
The afternoon portion of the event, on the other hand, began with one of Pag-iririmaw’s most anticipated events: the annual drag competition, Sambuwa sang mga Kabalan.
CAS’ very own representative, ABCDEF BEATRICE (James Bryan Almonia), donned an eye-catching sunflower-esque outfit for the production number Their advocacy, which touched on fighting for gender equality and inclusivity, was also featured in the advocacy video portion of the competition however, their advocacy did not end there ABCDEF BEATRICE went the extra mile with their performance to Sponge Cola’s ‘Bitaw’ and Bamboo’s ‘Tatsulok’ , an artful critique of the prevalent classism, inequality, and unjust militarization in the country This was followed by a much more light-hearted series of
Lip Sync battles set to Jessie J’s viral hits ‘Flashlight’ and ‘Bang Bang’. After a slayful set of performances, ABCDEF BEATRICE finished 2nd Runner-Up for the College of Arts and Sciences
With the audience riding the high of the Sambuwa event, there was almost no time for breathers before it was time for the pageant portion, Mr and Ms Pag-iririmaw 2023, to start In an explosion of wit and energy, both CAS bets Eleine Irene Salazar of ABPS 1A and Dick Matthew Montaño of ABELS 1A bagged the Pagiririmaw crowns while also taking home multiple special awards to boot
by: Kayla Maye S. Juanga
Arts and Sciences-related fields in West Visayas State University (WVSU) rank high in the Western Visayas classifications conducted by EduRank
Based on the ranking, Linguistics and Mathematics placed 1st in Western Visayas, with both sitting at the 19th spot in the country Moreover, Political Science, Biology, and Chemistry placed 2nd in the same region The said fields also emerged 27th, 31st, and 34th in the Philippines, respectively WVSU also ranked 2nd best university in Iloilo
Overall, the University ranked 38th in the Philippines, with significant publications made under the fields of Political Science, Linguistics, Law, Environmental Science, and Statistics, among others.
EduRank is an independent metricbased ranking of the world’s best 14,131 universities from a total of 183 countries. The organization uses the research performance, non-academic prominence, and alumni popularity of various universities to form the overall ranking
by: Allexandra U Dasmariñas, Eunice Loraine D Nolasco, and Francine Denisse D Palomar
New to the university but definitely no strangers to enchanting the audience, Eleine Irene Salazar from AB Political Science 1A and Dick Matthew Montaño from AB English Language Studies 1A carried the yellow banner of the College of Arts and Sciences for this year’s Mr and Ms Pag-iririmaw, dominating the pageant's back-to-back all-rounder challenges in an explosion of wit and energy at the West Visayas State University Cultural Center. It is the explosion of wit and energy that led both College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) candidates to dominate Mr and Ms Pag-iririmaw 2023 held in the West Visayas State University (WVSU) Cultural Center, September 22
Eleine Irene Salazar from AB Political Science 1A and Dick Matthew Montaño from AB English Language Studies 1A did not hesitate to slay the pageant’s back-to-back all-rounder challenges, taking home multiple special awards including Best in Formal Wear (Female), Best in Dance Showdown (Male and Female), Best in Acting Challenge (Male and Female), and Best in Preliminary Interview (Male and Female)
Salazar is the third CAS Queen to be crowned in a row, walking the trail blazed by Ms. Pag-iririmaw 2019, Millen Jan Arillo, and Ms Pagiririmaw 2022, Taryna Estelle Juls Oquias
Production Number
Montaño and Salazar brought the magic of Pedro Penduko to the stage
for the first performance of the evening, wowing audiences with their gorgeously crafted costumes. Will the power of the amulet be their key to the crown?
Formal Wear
Clad in matching ensembles of stunning red dipped in dazzling gold, Montaño and Salazar drew in the cheers of the crowd with their charm and charisma.
Dance Showdown
“Bongga ka, day!” erupted from the speakers as CAS pageant reps electrified with an energetic dance routine for their individual dance segment. Montaño and Salazar whipped out their grooviest moves having swapped out their dressy shoes for sneakers ending their old-school number with a charmingly classic dip Acting Challenge
In a convincing on-the-spot spiel, CAS bets took the sentimental route in showcasing their take on the chosen soap opera-esque scenario. They played the roles of ill-fated partners in which one had long-time unrequited feelings for a dying friend.
Interviews
In an admirable display of poise and eloquence befitting true superheroes, these CAS candidates left a lasting impression on the crowd and judges for both the Preliminary and Final Interview segments, demonstrating that their powers extended far beyond the stage Montaño and Salazar navigated these timely and complex questions with charm and confidence, securing their crowns as Mr and Ms Pag-iririmaw 2023
by: Kayla Maye S. Juanga
Marriane Marie P. Camarino
Various progressive groups gathered at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol on Thursday, September 21, to commemorate the 51st anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law by former President and dictator Ferdinand Marcos, Sr Arts and Sciences Student Council (ASSC) Chairperson, Alan Benedict Buco, showed his support on the call of the youth sector, emphasizing that the role of the studentry is very essential in these times According to him, “Kung mabalik kita sa history sang students kag student councils sa aton [mga] pungsod sa Pilipinas, makit-an naton nga sang nagumpisa ang Martial Law, gin try gin ni Marcos Sr nga ipanaog ang or ipasara ang mga student councils, kag ipasara ang mga student councils, kag ipasara pa gid ang mga movements or organizations [sang] mga estudyante.Kaya subong, importante gid nga maghulag ang mga estudyante naton, labi na gid ang mga estudyante naton, labi na gid ang aton mga student councils ” He also added that the return of the Marcoses had resulted in multiple issues to the education sector, including the current SUCs budget cut, in which West Visayas State University is currently in the Top 7 state universities with the highest budget cut as of the GAA 2023
Anakbayan, Bayan-Panay, League of Filipino Students (LFS), Kabataan Partylist, and other progressives continue the calls for justice for the victims of human rights violations, to abolish the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF ELCAC), to junk the Charter Change (ChaCha) and Anti-Terror Law, no to PUV phaseout, and to defend human rights. The groups also stressed the worsening economic and social conditions of the country under the presidency of the late dictator's son and his namesake, Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.
The Martial Law period is a dark period in Philippine history that continues to haunt the Filipino people up to the present, with 11,103 recognized victims of the Marcos dictatorship 2,326 of which are desaparecidos.
by: Francine Denisse D. Palomar
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science students from the University received the championship title in the first-ever Mic On: Youth Discourse on Local Governance held from October 19 to 20, via Zoom platform
The debate team was composed of Vaness Langrio, Kyla Mae Yapendon,
Marielle Louize Barro, Jan Michael Alayon (2nd year students) and John Rey Mar Flores and Herlejhean Michelle Uy (3rd year students) representing Iloilo City in the said activity
Langrio was also awarded as the Best Debater (Grand Finals), Best Speaker (Semi-Finals), and Best Debater (Elimination Round)
The online debate activity was conducted by the Department of the Interior and Local Government–Local Government Regional Resource Center (DILG–LGRRC 6), in partnership with Junior Chamber International (JCI) Iloilo and Local Government Academy, as part of its celebration of the Local Government Month 2023.
by: Lois Angella D. Manansala
West Visayas State University (WVSU) Department of Social Sciences, together with Mindanao State University–Department of Political Science, organized a “MultiStakeholders Virtual Forum and Dialogue on Rethinking Return Migration, Reintegration, and Remigration in the Post-Pandemic World” last September 27, via Zoom and Facebook Live
The discussion revolved around the concepts of migration, return reintegration programs or policy responses of the Philippine government, as well as return and integration challenges of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), among others
Insights were also shared by the different honorable speakers, namely,
( ), , Asec. Legaspi, who tackled Moving Forward on Return Migration: Insights from Research, Impact of Local Integration Policies to the Return Migration and Reintegration of OFWs in Japan, and the full-cycle reintegration program under the new law (RA 11641), respectively
The forum was in partnership with
with the University of Shizuoka, and Better Engagement Between East and Southeast Asia, and was attended by about 130 participants from WVSU, Filamer Christian University (FCU), and Capiz State University (CAPSU) It was also graced by academics from Japan and the Philippines, as well as government representatives.
by: Marriane Marie P. Camarino
Academes of West Visayas State University participated in an educational discussion themed “The Role of Academe in Sustainable Food Systems and Rural Development”, organized by the OIKOS Ecological Movement Chapters – Western Visayas (WVSU and Lopez Jaena) held earlier today, October 5, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Central Philippine University
The discussion revolved around the objectives of university-based researchers and agriculture majors to instill ecological awareness on fellow science-oriented institutions are they’re the “instruments” for rural innovation and development for societal change.
Dr. Chito Medina of Magsasaka at Siyentipiko para sa Pag-unlad ng Agrikultura (MASIPAG) shared conceptual ideas about the trends in the global agriculture, the agricultural crisis, such as the emergence of monopolization, in correlation to lack of basic commodities, and plan of action to further enhance the agricultural sector, as well as expanding the campaign of halting commercialization of the controversial GMO Crops, such as the Golden Rice and BT eggplant
This discourse was organized in partnership with CPU College of Agriculture, Resources and Environmental Sciences, CPU Agriculture Students Association and CPU College of Arts and Sciences
by: Vanessa S Toboro
On August 24, 2023, the WVSU Cultural Center burst with vibrancy and liveliness as CASimanwas from various departments gathered for the annual CAS Orientation and Acquaintance Party The air buzzed with anticipation as students stepped through the front doors, clad in outfits that paid homage to Taylor Swift’s iconic Eras
From the sultry elegance of “Midnights” to the youthful vibrancy of “Fearless,” every course made a stylish statement. The venue itself seemed to pulse with creativity, fueled by the enchanting performances of the Reyna candidates Invigorating showcases of skill and talent dance battles, lip sync numbers, and band performances also graced the stage.
As the hours unfolded, the spotlight shifted to the competitive showcases Dance battles erupted, with ASSEM emerging as the champions, their synchronized moves leaving the audience in awe. Lip sync numbers followed suit, with ASSEM once again claiming victory, proving their range and versatility The title of Reyna ng
Sining at Agham went to PSSO, whose regal presence and artistic flair captured everyone’s attention
Meanwhile, the Cultural Center reverberated with the electrifying sounds of MNM, the Battle of the Bands winners. Their music echoed through the halls, uniting the crowd in celebration
Beyond the performances, the event featured organizational booths, each vying for recognition PSSO’s booth stood out, earning them the coveted title of Best Organizational Booth. Yet, the true climax awaited the announcement of the overall champion The tension was palpable as the scores were tallied In the end, it was PSSO that emerged victorious, their collective talent and dedication propelling them to the top.
As the day drew to a close, CASimanwas exchanged congratulations, laughter, and memories The CAS Acquaintance Party wasn’t just an event; it was a testament to the spirit of unity and excellence that defines WVSU’s College of Arts and Sciences
by: Jeraldine B Miranda
WVSU students joined Congressman Raoul Manuel as they gathered in Quezon Hall last Thursday, November 9, for ‘Kabataan, Kabalo Ka?’ , a forum on educational budget and its effects on students both in and out of the classroom
The forum was both a discussion and a call to action, encouraging students from CAS, COE, CBM, and CICT to be more aware of the government's proposed budget plan for 2024 and what it would mean for the country moving forward
By
A Thousand Cuts
Congressman Manuel broke down the different aspects of Filipino life that would be affected by the budget cuts, focusing on three main aspects: food, livelihood, and services
He emphasized how these changes were proposed despite an increase in the overall government budget, commenting on the negative impacts of the PHP 6 16 budget cut a shortage of teachers, classrooms, facilities, and equipment, all of which would be detrimental to Filipino learners’ academic journey.
He went on to detail the effects on livelihood due to job shortages and lack of sustainable housing policies and support for the Filipino workforce, on health due to cuts on programs by the Department of Health, and on food sufficiency due to current ineffective government policies
ni: Kaela Dawn R. Malaki
Nasungkit ng CAS ang pangalawang pwesto sa University Days 2024 Street Dance Competition noong Enero 26, 2024.
Sa temang “Distinct Filipino Values that lead to Progress,” binigyang buhay ang mga paniniwala ng mga Pilipino katulad ng katatagan, bayanihan, at pananampalataya Kasunod ng panalo noong nakaraang taon, patuloy na ipinamalas ng mga CASimanwas ang kanilang husay sa pamamagitan ng pagsayaw sa ilan sa mga hit na kanta ang “Raining in Manila” ng Lola Amour at “Gento” ng SB19.
“Ang pagkapanalo ng ikalawang pwesto pagkatapos na masungkit ang ikalimang pwesto noong nakaraang taon ay nagtatakda ng iba’t-ibang damdamin Sinasalamin nito ang progreso at pag-unlad bilang isang miyembro ng grupo.
Kahit na medyo nabigo ako dahil hindi namin nakuha ang unang puwesto ay mas pinatibay nito ang aking pagnanais na mas maging mahusay,” sabi ni Charlene Angel Arigorat, isa sa mga mananayaw.
A Glimpse Into Government Priorities
Congressman Manuel also drew attention to the aspects that did get a budget increase, namely armed forces, debt payment, and areas like big-ticket projects and confidential and intelligence funds which have been sources of corruption and financial mismanagement in the past
He pointed out how, despite the constitution mandating that education should be the number one priority in terms of budget, the current budget plan fails to reflect it
CASmates, Kabalo Ka?
The forum ended with a call to action, encouraging students to spread the word and make their voices heard Congressman Manuel reminded attendees that, with collective action from a local level, even a WVSU student can help make a change.
by: Marriane Marie P Camarino
Panay students, jeepney drivers and operators, and other advocates from various sectors have gathered in the forum on Oil Price Hike and Jeepney Phaseout on the afternoon of November 11, 2023, at Santa Teresa Prayer Center Sambag, Jaro, Iloilo City.
Mula sa iba’t ibang departamento sa Sining at Agham, lahat ay may isang layunin at iyon ang manalo Bukod dito, walang duda na nabuo ang pakikipagkaibigan at pakikisama sa grupo.
Ayon kay Ralph Benedict Madayag, miyembro ng grupo, “Masasabi kong kamangha-mangha ang pagtatanghal sa entablado ngunit ang pinakamagandang bahagi tungkol sa pagiging parte ng kompetisyon ay ang nabuo naming pinagsamahan. Samasamang sumisigaw sa sakit, mga kasanayang umabot hanggang alas kwatro ng umaga, at ang katotohanang sa loob ng ilang linggo na sa sayaw lang umiikot ang buhay ko, naniniwala akong iyon ang mga pinaka-memorable na bagay na pinapahalagahan ko sa aking karanasan ”
Kaya naman, walang pag-aalinlangan na ang pagsisikap at dedikasyon ay tiyak na may patutunguhan.
Basta Taga-CAS, Waswas!
The discussion focused on concerns regarding the spontaneous implementation of the PUV Modernization program, a flagship program endorsed by former President Rodrigo Duterte, which resulted in multiple challenges to the national jeepney drivers, operators, and commuters as they faced the immense inflation in oil prices as well as basic social services
The event was organized by the No to PUVMP Phaseout Coalition Panay and Kabataan Partylist Representative Congressman Raoul Danniel Manuel, who visited West Visayas State University last November 9, 2023.
by: Eunice Loraine D. Nolasco
Alluding to the urban legend that has haunted Filipino families for generations, West Visayas State University - Little Theater (WVSULT) embarked on a different route in revealing what the "real" horror is during the theater production "Maria Labo: The Missing Chapters" last March 21, 2024 at WVSU Cultural Center
The play, described by its creators as a "horror story about being a woman" during the press conference held on March 17, 2024, lived up to
promises of delivering a thorough deconstruction of today's societal flawsframed in the familiar urban legend that is Maria Labo
Equal parts “thrilling” and “thought-provoking”, WVSU-LT incorporated significant narratives which highlighted pressing issues continually encountered by women both in the past and in the modern times.
Audiences had the opportunity to witness the play in three running times: 9 AM, 2PM, and 5:30 PM.
by: Kayla Maye S. Juanga
ILOILO CITY No to PUV (Public Utility Vehicle) Phaseout Coalition-Western Visayas (NTPPCWV) held a protest action and transport caravan against the impending phasing out of traditional jeepneys, compulsory franchise consolidation, and the PUV Modernization Program (PUVMP) near the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTRFB) Office 6 on May 14, 2024. It can be recalled that the PUVMP was launched in 2017 a s thegovernment’s response to “address both the aggravating transport related problems and the future transportation demand of the country”. The group, however, NTPPC-WV called to, once again, scrap the entire modernization
program due to the “massacre of livelihood” of thousands of jeepney drivers.
Around 2,500 jeepneys will be phased out if they fail to consolidate their individual franchises before the deadline proposed by the government, which was formerly on December 31, 2023 but was extended to April 30, 2024. Additionally, over 17,000 drivers and operators in Western Visayas were stated to have lost their livelihood on May 1, 2024
Aside from the loss of livelihood, one of the many concerns of the jeepney drivers and supporters of the Coalition is that the modernization of PUVs has raised challenges for the operators themselves, since they can only regain
by: Nicole Razzan S Galilea
Bachelor of Science in Biology major in Microbiology alumni were among the individuals who passed the PAM Certification Examination held last January 20-21, 2024 at the SMX Convention Center, Aura, Taguig, Metro Manila The full list of the department’s passers are shown below
May your future endeavors be filled with boundless success and may this serve an inspiration to continue to illuminate the path for generations to come
Alexa Julienne T Acot, RMicro 1
Kaye Ann L Alerta, RMicro 2
Vhanelle M. Alimanaza, RMicro 3.
Alana Louise Dawn Q Assin, RMicro 4
Sydney Marie D Bataque, RMicro 5
Jillane G. Baure, RMicro 6.
Marc Stephen G Cagayan, RMicro 7
Shedelle Joy B Cala-or, RMicro 8
Laura Elyse I Cambel, RMicro 9
Krizhia Mae C. Catahum, RMicro 10.
Juneah Fiel O Ejar, RMicro 11
Ivon Carl A Escaro, RMicro 12
Kurt Siegmund P Fulgencio, RMicro 13
Chester Paul L. Guzman, RMicro 14.
Jahlen Rose L Jardeleza, RMicro 15
Alyssa Marie D Malhabour, RMicro 16
Selina R Nopueto, RMicro 17
Dalyn T. Pillada, RMicro 18.
Jazzie Lou P Pumarin, RMicro 19
Apriel Grace S Solmayor, RMicro 20
Shannen Angeline E Soteo, RMicro 21
Remie Hope L. Sumagpao, RMicro 22.
Yhobilee Ohara G Tanagon, RMicro 23
their expenses through day-to-day operation as compared to the cost of modernized units which range from P1 6 million to P2 4 million
According to Elmer Forro, lead convenor of NTPPC-WV and the Secretary General of Bayan-Panay, around 70,000 individuals including drivers, operators, and their families will be affected when traditional jeepneys stop their operations
Several transport strikes and protest actions were also held earlier this year in different parts of the Philippines, such as in Davao City, Bacolod City, Baguio City, Calamba, Sta Rosa, and Cabuyao in Laguna, in Rizal, Legazpi City, and Cebu City.
by: Kyra Rose S. Miranda
Taga-CAS have put in their votes
In a mostly uncontested race, USA candidates took the majority of the seats in the ASSC during the recently concluded College elections held from May 9–10, 2024
SAMASA candidate Habagat, who ran for College Representative, now sits as the sole officer from the opposing slate.
Chairperson:
Marielle Louize Barro (USA) - 500 votes
Vice Chairperson: Benz Dominique Delariman (USA) - 513 votes
Secretary: Ashley Ba-ay (USA) - 469 votes
Assistant Secretary: Wehrmacht Refugio (USA) - 453 votes
Treasurer:
Kryzel Liza Vaay (USA) - 479 votes
Assistant Treasurer: Ma Rubelyn Felicio (USA) - 422 votes
Auditor:
Janara Isabelle Belaza (USA) - 432 votes
Assistant Auditor:
Andrie Formacion (USA) - 440 votes
Business Manager: Dianella Maris Po (USA) - 481 votes
Assistant Business Manager: Gwenn Bernadette Sandig (USA)435 votes
Public Information Officer: Fehm Kyzia Azucena (USA) - 426 votes
Assistant Public Information Officer: Lara Joy Evan (USA) - 416 votes
College Representatives: Lawrence Axel Dichoson (USA)316 votes
Derek Coronacion (USA) - 311 votes
Clyde Habagat (SAMASA) - 284 votes
Knit Nicole Ivan Capiñã (USA)224 votes
This year’s college elections resulted in only 577 votes out of the expected 1034, yielding an overall turn-out of 55 80%
by: Vanessa S. Toboro
The Art and Sciences Society of English Majors (ASSEM), spearheaded by Vice Chairperson Earl James Gonzales, hosted “Lit Ol’ Sphere: A Literary Workshop” for Grade 3 students of Cordova Elementary School.
Held at Tigbauan, Iloilo on April 19, this one-day event was filled with interactive activities with an aim to foster literary appreciation.
Throughout the day, these young minds were engaged in a series of workshops that spanned writing, reading, art, and acting each designed to bolster their skills and self-expression.
Writing: Students immersed themselves in spelling drills and explored the meanings of words, refining their vocabulary and mastering language use. Practical exercises helped them apply these skills in real-life sentences, highlighting the usefulness of their growing linguistic abilities.
Reading: Through meticulous pronunciation drills and exercises, students acquired the tools to engage with literature in a profoundly transformative manner Group activities then provided a chance to practice and perfect these new reading skills
Art: Participants explored visual arts, learning about lines, colors, shapes, and textures from facilitators They each created a drawing that represented themselves, which encouraged personal expression and group dialogue This session fostered an appreciation for the visual arts and self-reflection
Acting: The acting portion of the program focused on building confidence and the ability to express a range of emotions Facilitators led an acting workshop that covered basic emotions like happiness and sadness. An ‘emotion relay’ activity allowed participants to practice and showcase their emotional depth in a supportive environment.
The “Lit Ol’ Sphere” outreach program of ASSEM demonstrated the transformative impact of literature and arts in education, proving that with proper support, children can surpass traditional academic boundaries to become innovators.
Every year, ASSEM organizes outreach program as part of their tradition of community engagement and legacy-building.
by: Allexandra U Dasmariñas
Last March 19, 2024, the WVSU Federated Student Council (FSC) conducted the last leg of its series of Townhall Meetings at the WVSU Main Campus, with the purpose of presenting the 2024 WVSU Student Constitution, amending the current 2014 FSC Constitution The students were given the opportunity to raise questions, suggestions, and opinions regarding the presented draft Constitution most of which raised with the intent of probing into the procedures made and intentions harbored by FSC in amending the said Constitution
However, many of these questions were left unanswered by the FSC representatives, or otherwise left unsubstantiated and unjustified.
On the publication of the members of the Constitutional Committee
Elijah Abao from the College of Law asked the FSC why the members of the Constitutional Committee were not publicized for the information of the studentry FSC Officer Villas answered that “there was no necessity” in publicizing the said information because the 2014 FSC Constitution simply provides that the members of the said committee shall comprise all members of the FSC and extension campuses
In response, Abao further argued in
in response that regardless of its publication being required in the 2014 FSC Constitution or not, it is well within the rights of the students to know and be informed on the specific individuals involved in the framing of the 2024 Constitution for the sake of transparency and accountability
This initial inquiry was followed up by Michael John Subigca, from the College of Arts and Sciences, asking why they did not feel the necessity of publicizing the said information FSC Adviser, Prof Cynthia Morga, replied that there was no secrecy regarding this information. Until now, there is still no official publication of the members who took part in the drafting of the 2024 Constitution, other than the responses that they are composed of the FSC and extension campus officers
On the 2014 FSC Constitution
Herlejhean Michelle Uy, from the same college as above, also asked why the students were not made aware of the existence of the 2014 FSC Constitution Adviser Morga responded that “they are not obligated to let [us] know” about its existence, and accessing the said public document is our responsibility. FSC Officer Habagat further answered that they had to go through the repository of the OSA to insure that they had a legitimate copy of the said Constitution
Considering the FSC already had the legitimate copy to use as their basis in framing the 2024 Constitution, and they had to undergo layers of bureaucracy to retrieve it, such document should have been shared with the student body upon the announcement of the 2024 Constitution for the students to thoroughly scrutinize and compare the contents of the two aforementioned documents, in order for them to assess the merit and necessity of the proposed amendments
The subject of the publication of the Readings conducted by the FSC in the process of drafting the 2024 Constitution was raised by Vaness Langrio from the College of Arts and Sciences. Langrio asked when and where these Readings were conducted, and whether or not these readings were made known to the student body
FSC Officer Datiles answered that the First Reading was held in January, and the Second and Third Readings were held in February Only the first of these readings was publicized and it was not shared by the official Facebook page and information dissemination instrument of the FSC. Again, this raised concerns regarding the transparency of the process in drafting the amended Constitution
DoesPoliticsHaveASurname?
“MayApelyidoBaAngPolitika?”
by: Ericah M Villacarlos
These are just some of the surnames that branded Philippine politics not just for decades, but marked the Philippine political arena for successive generations This pervasive influence from known political clans stemmed from a series of chains as they grip the political power within the country, cheating the term limits of the constitution
However, the question lies as to, "Is this constitutional?" Article II, Section 26 of the 1987 Constitution states that "The State shall guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service, and prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law " Yet, to date, there are no definite definitions of "political dynasty" that exist in the literature of laws in the Philippines or at least being passed.
Over the years, the chief executive position within the country has been dominated by these clans Specifically, the Marcos family has been notable in this regard, with Ferdinand Marcos Sr
holding the presidency from 1965 to 1986, followed by his son Bongbong Marcos who assumed office in 2022 and remains in power to the present day. This trend of wielding significant influence for the highest position in the Philippines also diverged the norm asprominent lineages from the Duterte kin, the Aquino family, and the Macapagal-Arroyo descent, which each of these politicians incrediblyleft a history in governing the Philippines and each of their presidential terms is legitimized by the process of suffrage
There is no doubt that these surnames are beyond prestige and prominence as their legacies are seared with ideologies and public persona that command belief Take, for instance, the Duterte clan, renowned for their "ironfist" approach, promising a governance marked by austerity and discipline, assuring the public of peace and security Conversely, the Aquinos are perceived to be "elites" and liberalists, while the Villars are known to be a clan of staggering
businessmen and economists pledging to improve the economy of the country
This categorization of surnames is commonly practiced by the public, and oftentimes this serves as the foundation of their voting decisions.
While these surnames prove points of identity, they also seed division and polarization within the country, both national and local It creates what we now modernly call being "partisan", where people narrow down their ideas with politicians with whom they find common ground in their shared purpose particularly in the pressing concerns that exist within the society. In return, this creates an "us vs them" mentality, cultivating a multitude of political party factions within the country.
Whilst Philippine politics may not bear any official surname, associations to these family names serve as a powerful branding mechanism which continues to shape the public opinion within the society
by: Paul Asi C. Hitalia
Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) has increasingly become a handy tool in the field of education. ChatGPT, among other AIs, is slowly but surely being introduced and is poised to transform and revolutionize teaching and learning. This new trend in technology, as with any new innovation, has been met with uncertainties and fear among masses. However, we should recognize that there is no problem with the AI itself The angle we should look upon is how we could responsibly use it
In a survey conducted by Instructure, the majority of the students use ChatGPT for research and academic writing, while others use it for preparing tests, learning foreign languages, creating content for classes, and personalized learning. These data show how prevalent and widespread the use of AI models is in this current time AI is still relatively new and is growing continuously According to the current DepEd Secretary, Sara Duterte: “It appeared to me that AI evokes shame, evokes fear because of the unknown” Duterte’s view evidently shows that many people remain skeptical of its reliability and we cannot blame them for it With this being said, artificial intelligence indeed has its obvious drawbacks. ChatGPT is unreliable at some point
Firstly, there are times when it generates citations that do not actually exist at all, for the sake of including citations. Secondly, since AI relies on data available on the internet, there are times when ChatGPT allegedly steals other people’s works, and modifies them in such a way that it could be seen as “new” Lastly, it provides incorrect answers just to fulfill the given prompts. There are multiple reports of it generating wrong answers especially for mathematical and coding problems
Aside from its technical aspects, the skepticism behind Generative AI stems from the fact that many people are using it wrong. The main issue AI brings in the education sector is the academic dishonesty demonstrated by the students they currently use it as a shortcut to finish their assignments, tasks, projects, and other schoolwork They just lazily type in prompts such as “write me a 5 paragraph essay about AI with citations” and copy-paste everything it generates The convenience that this tool brings makes the student lazy and dependent on it It also suppresses their creativity as AI could just generate presentations, artworks, and even videos in a matter of seconds or minutes
Nevertheless, the education sector should not ban or discourage the use of AI. Instead, the whole education sector in our country should focus on generating solutions for responsible AI use Recently, the University of the Philippines created a set of guidelines entitled “ University of the Philippines Principles for Responsible and Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence” which aims to “provide guardrails and indicate the way forward on the development and use of AI in the University and the country” This move could provide concrete examples to provide boundaries on when the use of AI is ethical or a misconduct
Generative AI should be used as a guiding instrument by giving students an outline on what they are supposed to do It should help the user provide background on their research, a template for their presentations, or tips on how to do a specific task But the actual work should still be up to the students AI is not a replacement for the student itself. As its name suggests, it should “generate” solutions, and should actually help the students learn and improve their skills in the most efficient manner
Cum laude a Latin phrase that means ’with praise’ or in apt relation to academics, ‘with honors’
The recognition of one’s actions is perhaps the most satisfying outcome after the timeless enduring of tasks and requirements in the progression of academic life It is not foreign for many to endure caffeine-induced sleepless nights paired with what seems to feel like unending migraines just to prepare for tests, submit requirements and even with a little more sacrifice, rigor, and commitment the opportunity to rise onstage to claim the ever-prestigious cum laude title to justify and validate one’s efforts to brand the academic year a success But is a laude the lone basis for being deemed a success in academia?
While earning a laude is a great feat for most, one cannot deny how hard it is to maintain a qualifying general weighted average (GWA), let alone pass subjects with set standards that can be deemed challenging by even the brightest students For many, the greatest challenge in earning the title is maintaining a good academic record through the grueling years of academic work This then makes the laude and its corresponding variants (Summa and Magna) titles that embody academic success and excellence, worthy of continual effort. As a result, attempting to earn a laude can become a burden for most, given the amount of commitment one has to give, the high standards, and of course, competition from peers
This leaves behind a mindset that attaining a degree is ‘not enough’ rather, one has to pass with honors, cum laude, for one’s academic journey to be considered a success While this may be an encouraging mindset for those who are naturally competitive, but for many, this mindset cultivates a phobia of ‘mediocrity’, leading many to resort to extreme measures to improve their grades, going as far as to overly rely on their peers or even bargain with their professors for a better grade These standards are arguably too high; even with the best of their abilities, they may not reach this standard and may potentially fall short Does this mean then, that students who pass as “average” are always bound to be mediocre due to their incapability to earn Latin honors? Are those with Latin honors the only ones eligible and worthy to call their years in academia a success?
The bittersweet truth that many find hard to swallow is that not everybody is eligible to earn a laude The collective dream of an entire batch gaining a Latin honor is a statistic of low probability; possible, albeit unlikely However, this does not mean that only those with Latin honors are bound for success as even those who are “merely average” have equal potential to be so much more, following the philosophy that any awardee can fail as much as anybody else can succeed Moreover, the mere experience
AI is not the enemy It might even be the solution to the existing education crisis in the country
one receives from education, regardless of grade, is always a success when it provides a plethora of opportunities for the near future Success, then, is not limited to laude awardees, as those without may also attain it
Simply put, a Latin honor may be something worth sacrificing time and effort for; in this pursuit, however, it is inevitable that some of those who chase after it may fall behind for a variety of reasons comparable to Icarus flying too close to the sun This does not make them any lesser than those who achieve these awards, nor does this mean that they are mediocre just because they lack a laude upon graduation Rather, those with and without laude titles have equal potential to be the best that they can be
It becomes a matter of principle on how students would apply what they have learned in their academic years in a world with much higher standards for society as a whole. The pursuit of achievement in academic excellence; the principle of chasing stars or achieving dreams at hand, is always a cause that befits any student but at the end of the day, only those who truly strive to learn, those who challenge the thought that imperfections or one’s state of being average amount to nothing, those who yearn and hope for what the cause of education promises: the attaining of knowledge above all means, are those who become the very embodiment of excellence, cum aut sine laude
ni: Paul Asi C. Hitalia
Hindi masama ang modernisasyon, ngunit kung hindi lang din naman ito maisasatupad nang maayos at makokompromisa ang kabuhayan ng libo-libong mga tsuper, hindi na ito solusyon - ito’y nagiging problema na
Ang Jeepney Modernization Program ay nagsimula noon pang 2017 sa pamumuno pa ng dating pangulo Rodrigo Duterte Subalit ang pagsisimula ng pag-implementa nito ay umabot pa ng ilang taon dala ng pandemya at ng kabi-kabilang mga kilos protesta laban dito Ngayong taon, nagbigay na ng huling palugit ang pamahalaan hanggang ika-30 ng Abril upang mag consolidate ang mga tsuper
Lahat tayo ay may hangaring pagandahin at gawing moderno ang pampublikong transportasyon, ngunit hindi makabubuti sa mga tsuper at
mamamayang Pilipino ang hakbang na nais tahakin ng gobyerno sa pagkamit nito
Ang presyo ng isang modernong dyip o minibus na nirerekomenda ng gobyerno ay umaabot sa 2 4 hanggang 2 6 milyong piso Hindi madali para sa mga tsuper na makakuha ng ganyang kalaking halaga lalo na’t umaabot lamang banda 800 piso ang kanilang kita araw-araw Dagdag pa rito ang sunod-sunod na pagtaas ng gasolina at pangunahing mga bilihin Kapag susundin nila iyan, malulubog lamang sila sa utang at lalong malulugmok sa kahirapan. Ang solusyon ng gobyerno? Mag consolidate. Ibig sabihin, kakailanganing sumali ng mga tsuper sa mga kooperatiba o mga korporasyon na siyang
magpapasweldo sa kanila, at magmamay-ari ng mga “modernized jeep” na kanilang imamaneho.
Sa kasalukuyan, halos 81% na ang nakapag-consolidate. Ayon kay LTFRB Chairman Teofilo Guadiz, ang hakbang na ito ay magbibigay ng mas magandang benepisyo para sa mga tsuper, magandang serbisyo sa mga pasahero, at pagbabawas ng kompetisyon sa mga drayber na may mga kahalintulad na ruta
Subalit ang pagsali sa mga grupong ito ay may mga kaakibat na epekto sa mga tsuper, pati na rin sa pasahero Una, maaaring tataas ang pamasahe na aabot sa 20 hanggang 50 piso Kinakailangan ito upang makapagbayad ang mga kooperatiba sa mga binili nilang mga yunit ng sasakyan Ikalawa, hindi siguradong maganda ang pamamalakad ng mga jeepney cooperatives na maaaring humantong sa kurapsyon, pangaabuso at pagbibigay ng mataas na membership fee sa mga myembro nito Panghuli, magiging unang hakbang ito sa pagmonopolya ng malalaking korporasyon sa ating pampublikong transportasyon dahil mas mapapabilis ang pagbili ng mga ito sa mga kooperatiba buhat ng pagtanggal ng gobyerno ng individual franchising ng mga dyip Magreresulta din ito sa lalong pagtaas ng pamasahe.
Bilang isang third-world na bansa, hindi madali ang pag modernisa ng ating public transport system Ngunit, kung totoo mang prayoridad ito ng gobyerno, kailangan nilang mas pagtuunan pa ito ng pansin at kinakailangang handa silang maglabas ng napakalaking halaga para rito Kailangang mabigyan nila ng sapat na subsidiya ang mga tsuper upang mas mapadali at mas mapaayos ang pagbili ng kanilang sariling mga dyip na deaircon at tipid sa gasolina.
Maganda mang pakinggan, ang pag-aasa ng gobyerno sa mga kooperatibo at malalaking korporasyon ay isang desisyong hindi pinag-isipan nang maayos Malaking perwisyo ito hindi lamang sa mga drayber ng dyip, kundi pati na sa mga Pilipinong umaasa sa mga pampublikong sasakyan Para bang ginawa lamang alipin ng mga mayayaman ang mga “hari” ng kalsada
ANINTERVIEWWITHWVSU’SMOSTOUTSTANDINGGRADUATE
by: Marriane Marie P. Camarino , Paul Asi C. Hitalia, & Jamaica Jade V. Senagonia
Not all sleep on a bed of warm silk with a pillow beneath their heads; some endure the freezing night as they lay on the hard ground This was the reality for University Valedictorian Rey Dane Rapista who believes that every cent matters, even in education which should be a right of every Filipino but has long become a privilege From his personal struggles growing up in poverty, he persevered and became who he is today
Recognized as the most outstanding graduate not only of the College of Arts and Sciences but also of the entire campus, the thunderous applause that filled the WVSU Cultural Center made this academic year’s commencement ceremonies a moment to remember for Rey Dane He is a student of AB English Language Studies and a member of the Panay - Bukidnon, a local Indigenous Peoples community. In his eyes, he was just the average student, and his name was one barely seen in campus publications. Only a few people knew about him, and those people knew that his life is like a photo album nostalgic, relatable, and full of hope.
In his album of life, he had seen three pictures of the man.
The first is a childhood photograph of him at around the age of six or seven surrounded by many trees beside a mountain and along a river His head was tilted towards a school as he and his mother walked by, and he said, “Ma, gusto ko mag-eskwela da ” Convincing his mother was the first step towards another struggle, but a step that was definitely worth it
Photo by Marriane Marie P Camarino
The face in the second photo is strikingly different from the previous one He wears a student uniform like those around him, but he's different He was like a single mungbean laying in a bed of rice grains who stood out from the crowd Brown, small and short he was a reflection of the province-grown bud, feeling alienated from those born with silver spoons He often borrowed phones from his classmates to play games During the summer, it had always been a normal thing to have soda to cool off, but even having complete meals required effort for his young self He only had a few pairs of clothes that he would rotate through Amid this, he kept in his heart what his parents had told him: "If you want to do something big in life, you just have to study well " So he goes big having the courage to apply to a university in a big city
The remaining photograph is the most distinct of the three It is difficult to imagine how he was able to achieve this feat. This time, he is slowly fading in color as he smiles through the pain, but there is also a genuine satisfaction within his grin. Applying to college is a rigorous process in itself. Much like every taga-West, there is Rey Dane who, when deciding on what university to apply to, opts to choose a state university to avail of the Free Higher Education However, the need to be cautious financially is not limited to this as he said, "money reigns almost everything " As long as a public school has a desired degree program, application is already an option
Prior to becoming an ABELS student, Rey Dane set his eyes on STEM-related degrees, such as Biology and Chemistry He dreamed of using the knowledge he would gain
from either of these fields to enhance the water quality in their hometown. Yet, knowing how demanding these courses would be in terms of laboratory materials made him decide not to pursue them Despite that, he believed that he could still serve the community in other ways
As a financially challenged college student, the most difficult part of the day was mealtime, especially if already sleep-deprived and caffeinated Why was it so important that human beings eat three meals in a day, how much more meals that actually held nutritional value? "Eat or die," the saying goes, but to an empty stomach, it sounded like just a mere threat
The temporary "glory" of being Summa Cum Laude has made his parents proud, redeeming their hard work and perseverance; but Rey Dane knows that stepping out of the comfort zone and facing new challenges is what truly helps a person grow He's determined to use his parents' example and the reality of economic struggle, which hindered the lives of most of today’s youth, as motivation to work even harder to seek employment and financial stability of his own By challenging himself and expanding his knowledge, Rey Dane hopes to one day achieve the level of success his parents have to prove that their sacrifices were worth it
College students have very demanding academic deadlines and limited finances, so some are not able to eat on time, and others cannot afford three meals a day Rey Dane belonged to the latter, leading to him fainting one rainy day during PagIririmaw in front of Quezon Hall. Even then, he refused to be brought to the hospital with the expensive bills at the back of his mind. He didn’t even have the strength to choose between eating three times a day or getting hospitalized. This experience allowed him to see one more particular aspect of human beings. He smiled in his own weakness because he had felt that he had no choice but to endure and persevere
Rey Dane's academic achievements are more than just personal accomplishments they are his way of giving back to his parents and to the community he lived in The honors he has earned are a testament to the sacrifices his parents have made Though he may not consider his current success as ideal, the financial stability it provides is his true aim
Pero remembering my elementary, my high school, my college life, they’re my source of wisdom – amo na I’m so grateful for them – for those experiences.
Here's to the three pictures of the man Rey Dane had seen: the man he had become and will become To those who are in the hem of the society especially the indigenous people who deserve to receive the same amount of necessities as others, who deserve to live in a better system, are now progressing and having their own winning moments. Rey Dane’s winning moment is also the hem’s triumph.
To dare to dream is to have the courage to face what lies beyond the comfort zone; to persevere despite the hardships, and to always continue even if your knees tremble It means embracing the unknown, pushing through the challenges, and never giving up no matter how daunting the path ahead may seem As you persevere for your dreams, always look back on your roots, and bring them along with you
by: Miles U. Guancia
Corruption in its own way is a form of genocide. One that quietly eliminates people’s systems, hopes, and dreams It takes advantage of any goodness, then proceeds to rip it apart Sometimes, it’s not blood-stained hands we should be frightened of, but the gentle cowardice that pushes our hand to quickly scroll past. Because, what might be more terrifying than crocodiles in coats is a person who sees any form of injustice and does nothing about it
Occasionally referred to as the information generation, Filipinos are bona fide citizens in an online world Within it, local and international trends are one click away And, in convenient fashion, you don’t even need the search engine to look for the latest issue it finds its way to you, casually gracing the screen with heavy, challenging news. This is where conflict sets in; when clips aren’t funny quips that knock socks off. When an orphaned child or jeepney driver asks for help, what do you do? If a government official is questioned or an administrative project put to effect, what then?
The response of the youth might not seem much to people in power, or even to one’s self. Indeed, the truth can be frightening enough to turn hopes down, but it’s also blinding. While everyone might be aware of the challenges countries face, not all are informed well enough and that’s okay. For as long as we don’t remain satisfied with scrolling in the shadows, with hearing only one side of the story, or being parts of the aftermath
by: Lois Angella D. Manansala
Women have been the ones that hold our community together; from small units such as families to bigger spaces, women have proven themselves capable of being equally strong and independent as all the other genders We should also never forget that life also is given by women this painful miracle that keeps the world turning, and is thus more than reason enough to be grateful and appreciative for the women in our lives: our mothers, grandmothers, sisters, aunts, and all women that continuously guide us. Every step one woman takes is a collective step for all women. When one woman stands up, all women do We all share different views and experiences yet one thing for sure is that women are the foundation of the cycle we call life
it’s a moral responsibility to become wellversed and engaged however we can. Looking fear in the eye
Fear is something that protects or provokes us into action In fact, empathy can be proactive an overlooked emotion that guides our compassion toward others and ourselves But it cannot always remain as a feeling, it can be put to work Notably, the first step to proactively empathizing is to acknowledge certain realities Not for what it simply is, but to acknowledge its unrightful place in society ‘It is what it is’ doesn’t apply here, as we should see the fact that, despite functionality, something is amiss in the system Easier said than done, especially once one realizes that people are capable of doing widely immoral hings to innocents But acceptance doesn’t return to you void, it bolts people forward to what matters and the lives everyone deserves. Engage when you can
Anyone who has access to the internet is not powerless, even more so those who do not After informing one’s self of the status quo, it’s absolutely possible to share factual information with others Find opportunities to spread the word, no matter how small It might not be a lot, but spreading the truth of injustice, improvements, and current events encourages people to know where we are right now as a people. Such is possible by sharing social media posts, having small discussions, or sharing relevant material.
For every woman out there, remember who you are your strengths, your motivations, and never let the world tell you otherwise Show your colors and never blacken them for others
The celebration should not stop with the International Women’s Month ending Instead, let this be a reminder to celebrate and commemorate womanhood always, in all ways
Abounding in women empowerment, this International Women’s Month highlighted the significance of every woman that walks this earth by celebrating their contributions and giving them due appreciation.
“Feminism isn't about making women stronger. Women are already strong, it's about changing the way the world perceives that strength” words shared by G D Anderson
Women were always perceived to be the ‘inferior’ gender, but these misperceptions are proven wrong time and time again.
After all has been said and done, equipped with substantial information about current happenings and talking about them, there is an option to return home
We cannot deny our empathy for people in other parts of the world, but a major thing we can do is to look back to our roots and help our hometowns, our direct communities
Once we have practiced empathy and not chosen to exempt ourselves from the heavy, terrifying truths in the world, it’s important to give a helping hand to where we live Widescale change is as important as micro-improvements, ones that nourish our homes, our identities, and ultimately establish who we are as compassionate students and Filipinos.
The achievements and accomplishments that women have earned and the struggles they face every day are enough affirmation to conclude that women are, in fact, strong
Yet society in this patriarchal world has denied women the ability to feel and recognize their true identity and existence
The achievements and accomplishments that women have earned and the struggles they face every day are enough affirmation to conclude that women are, in fact, strong. Yet society in this patriarchal world has denied women the ability to feel and recognize their true identity and existence.
by: Jeraldine B. Miranda
“It’s more fun in the Philippines” took a new, ironic meaning as the summertime brought record-high temperatures, thousands of class suspensions, and billions of economic damages Droughts plague the country as fewer and fewer people go outdoors or commute in the nearly unbearable daytime heat. With the heat index reaching over 40 degrees Celsius, Filipinos must face the harrowing reality that it might get worse from here
As of May 15, the United Nations’ World Meteorological Organization (WMO) declared April 2024 as the hottest month on record This followed nearly a year of months breaking their monthly temperature records since pre-industrial times, with May gearing up to follow suit. Nations all across the globe have experienced rising temperatures and the Philippines, along with other Southeast Asian nations, has taken the brunt April and May have historically been the warmest months of the year due to the country’s position along the equator along with the El Niño phenomenon. However, with the global temperature steadily rising, another culprit emerges Philippinesandtheeffectsofaglobalwarming
Global warming has been a buzzword for the last few years. The continuing increase of the planet’s temperature was observed decades ago and persists until today. According to NASA, the Earth’s temperature has increased by at least 1 1 degrees Celsius since 1880. This is drastically different from local temperatures fluctuating over the year. Putting it into perspective, when global temperatures dropped by about one to two degrees Celsius, it caused the ‘Little Ice Age’ in the North Atlantic. Global warming’s main cause traces back to human activities, particularly things like the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation. Carbon dioxide and greenhouse gases have been released into the atmosphere en masse and today, we feel the effects.
A study by the World Weather Attribution found that global warming only made the heat waves more intense, it can also make them more frequent Filipinos can expect record-breaking heat every decade and extreme temperatures every two to three years. This is in addition to other problems global warming brings such as rising sea levels, a problem for archipelagic countries like the Philippines Coastal communities and low-level cities like Manila are at risk of being submerged in the coming decades
While it’s easy to look at the state of the world and collapse (preferably in an airconditioned room away from the scorching heat), it’s important not to underestimate what we can do The world isn’t a flaming ball of fire just yet, no matter how hot it may get, so we still have the chance to turn things around.
by: Francine Denisse D Palomar
Many organizations have been pushing for greater awareness and education on the roles one’s lifestyle plays in mitigating the effects of global warming and climate change. Small things, like reusing rather than buying, proper waste management or commuting more often, can lessen daily carbon emissions and greenhouse gases being released into the atmosphere The youth, in particular, are also encouraged to join environmental efforts such as treeplanting initiatives and educational awareness campaigns.
One person’s actions may not seem like much but thousands of people across the world are working together to make a positive change These efforts are a reminder of how, while things might get worse, we can do our part to make a comeback and turn it around for the better
Not a single one of you yes, you could probably say that you were immune to that feeling of unfamiliarity during the first few months of college
Jumping from the stable, close-knit environment of high school can seem all the more daunting once the academic year starts in full force, a whirlwind of strange faces, endless corridors, and the looming task of forging friendships If it’s any consolation though, in spite of the sheer diversity between the six majors housed by Quezon and Rizal Hall, this is one feeling that is shared by every freshie. But fear not! For there is a unique tradition that elegantly bridges this gap: Akwe
The culture of holding acquaintance parties, or Akwe as called by CASimanwas, is a charming tradition that marks one of the very first quintessential college experiences for most students.
Here's the rundown: At the beginning of every academic year, each individual student society under CAS hosts their own acquaintance party, complete with unique themes and dress codes to boot.
These smaller gatherings foster a sense of belonging and shared passion amongst students within their chosen fields through a variety of fun and engaging activities, such as team-building games, Battle of the Bands, pageants, and other gimmicks that spur students from all levels to work with one another for their respective teams.
Akwe's magic doesn't stop at individual majors, though. The grand finale is the CAS Akwe, a yearly department-wide spectacle that unites all CASimanwas in a celebration of shared yellow-bloodedness Picture this: a Battle of the Bands showcasing the musical talents housed within CAS, a Mr. & Ms. CAS pageant where students strut their stuff and showcase beauty and wit, capped off by a dance party and food stalls for students with the munchies Ask any CAS student, and they’re all bound to agree that Akwes are more than just an eagerly-anticipated event. For CASimanwas, Akwe is all about forging connections that transcend academic disciplines. Akwe culture fosters a sense of community within CAS, reminding students that despite their chosen disciplines, they all bleed yellow and are part of one united department It's a place to discover shared interests, make lifelong friends, and create
memories that will solidify the bonds that tie them together throughout their academic journey It’s a testament to the power of friendship and camaraderie, and how celebrating these joyful moments together can be the catalyst for some of the most unexpected friendships in college
The next time you hear the word "Akwe," don't just think of partying (although it's definitely got a lot of that) think connections, think community, think CAS! After all, who knows what the next Akwe brings? A lifelong friend, a hidden passion, or maybe even the next big turning point in your life? We each have our own Akwe stories to tell, so don't be afraid to dive into the next everything you’ve got.
by: Eunice Loraine D Nolasco
CASimanwas reaped what they sowed as their four-day hustle through University Days 2024 brought home the fourth overall award, after participating in various merry-making activities against West Visayas State University's 16 other colleges and external campuses
As Hubon Manugmais, College of Arts and Sciences had a daily harvest worth thanking the gods for, climbing their way into the top five during the partial tallies, as revealed by the Federation Student Council’s leaderboard. With the theme, “PAMUGON: Pagbalik sa Ginhalinan kag Pagpamugon kang Kinaadman; Talento kag Abilidad Padulong sa Progresibo kag Mapag-on nga WVSU,” the event aimed to highlight the diversity of talents and skills that the students could deliver
In case you missed it, here’s a glimpse of how PAMUGON 2024 was for the Taga-CAS:
CASimanwas started strong with salakot-wearing yellow warriors marching through Iloilo Sports Complex to the WVSU Grandstand for the UDays’ Opening Ceremony. CAS debaters went full force during the elimination round of Banggianay, beating College of Medicine to the semi-finals. Wordsmiths also competed for the English and Filipino literary writing categories. Meanwhile, CAS bets for the Mr. and Ms. WVSU presented their rendition of Freddie Aguilar’s “Bulag, Pipi, at Bingi” during the talent portion of the pageant.
The merry-making continued, having debaters, artists, and speakers placed in the spotlight. The Visual Arts competition, which consisted of digital arts painting, on-the-spot poster making, charcoal and pencil drawing, painting, and photo contest, was held simultaneously with the English and Filipino Categories for Extemporaneous Speaking, Oration, Storytelling, Declamation, Character Impersonation, Play, Binalaybay, and Sugidanon, among others. The anticipated Short Films were played in the Cultural Center as well, preceding the awarding ceremony
Virtuosos of music had their moment in the Medicine Gym, whose category includes Instrumental (Solo), as well as Vocal Solo (Classical), and Vocal Solo and Duet (Pop). On the other hand, CAS proved their wits as they finished second during the Quiz Bowl with 48 points, while microphones were tested and cues were raised during the Radio Drama and Newscasting competitions. Banggianay Finals was also held, where CAS debaters emerged as champions Finally, the crowd held their breaths as beauty and brains were put through their paces in the Final Night of Mr. and Ms. WVSU 2024.
May it be through grace or fierceness, dancers showcased the best of their moves during the Folk Dance, Contemporary Dance, and Street Dance competitions held in the morning of the last day. The Lip Sync competition followed, where CAS reps took the heart to make use of their platform to raise their advocacies. Capping off the event, students across all colleges and campuses celebrated what transpired in the past week with music jamming to familiar songs and original compositions by the participating bands of UDays’ last competitive category In the end, the College of PESCAR was declared as the overall champion, whereas CAS took the fourth place
ni: Yun M. Bayotas
Mabigat man sa bulsa, malaking pakinabang lalo na sa kolehiyo ang pagkaroon ng alinman sa dalawa tablet o laptop Bunga nito, isang kaakibat na tanong ang bumukad na hindi gaano kadali tapatan ng sagot: Alin ang lamang at dapat na unahing bilhin, tablet o laptop?
Ang bawat kurso ay mayroong sari-saring pangangailangan na mga kagamitan, nasasalat man o hindi May iba’t ibang kapabilidad ang dalawang gadyet kaya’t may kanya-kanyang nakatago at kapansin-pansin na kalamangan at kakulangan ang bawat isa.
Mayroong kursong nangangailangan ng software applications na posibleng sa laptop o kompyuter lang magagamit, partikular na ang mga programa sa kolehiyo sa ilalim ng teknolohiya. Sa kabilang banda, may mga kursong note-taking, annotating, at pag-aral ng e-textbooks ang routine na kung saan mas komportable at mas mabisa gamit ang kakayanan ng tablet.
Sa larangan naman ng sining, maaaring naka-depende ito sa nakasanayang gamit na app at paraan ng paglikha ng isang disenyo. Mayroong mga design-making application na sa laptop lang matatagpuan o di kaya’y sa tablet lang umiiral. Pagdating sa paglikha ng disenyo o pagguhit sangkot ang digital pen, posible itong maisagawa sa tablet at ganoon na rin sa laptop. Ang paggawa ng disenyo gamit ang digital pen ay hindi lang sa tablet at touchscreen laptop maging kapaki-pakinabang, kundi pati na rin sa non-touchscreen laptop gamit ang graphics tablet na nagkakahalaga lamang banda 800-1000 Php, ang pinakamababang presyo. Ito ay maaaring alternatibo na rin sa mga estudyanteng may laptop at wala pang tablet. Gayunpaman, may mga asignatura sa kolehiyo na may sinusundang palatuntunan na kung saan iisang software application lang ang kailangan at dapat na gamitin at siyang matatagpuan lamang sa laptop o kompyuter
Nangunguna naman ang abilidad ng laptop pagtapak sa video editing. Ang mga tanyag at mayroong komplikadong features at functions na video editing applications ay sa laptop lamang posibleng makarga bagaman mayroon ding mga video editors app ang mga tablet datapwat mapapansing malayo ang kakayahan nito kung ikukumpara sa isa.
Kung pagawaan ng sanaysay, slide presentation, at infographics ang basehan, humigit-kumulang parehong kakayahan ang maibibigay ng tablet at laptop dahil maaari ring ma-connect ang hiwalay na keyboard at mouse sa tablet gamit ang bluetooth at USB wireless mouse na may pares na OTG cable
Bilang isa sa mga solusyon sa mga nagdadalawang-isip kung alin sa dalawa ang mas nakatutulong at dapat unahin bilhin bilang isang estudyante na nag-aaral ng partikular na kurso, ang pagtanong o pagkaroon ng panayam sa mga taong mayroon ng dalawang nabanggit na gadyet ay makapagbibigay ng maaasahan at kapaki-pakinabang na puna. Karagdagan nito, ang kaalaman sa kurikulum at silabus ng kurso ay maaaring mapagkaloob ng tumpak na sagot at maging isang gabay sa desisyon ng estudyante kaugnay sa mas mabisang gadyet para sa kanya.
by: Nicole Razzan S. Galilea
West Visayas State University (WVSU) swimmers laid claim to the waters and delivered an outstanding performance in the National State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (SCUAA) Meet 2023 at the New Clark City Aquatic Center
Leading the charge was Moses Oliver Bito-onon, who added to his impressive medal tally by clinching gold in the men’s 100-meter freestyle and the 4×50meter freestyle relay. These victories come on top of his previous golds in the 200-meter freestyle and 100-meter backstroke events. Bito-onon also secured three silver medals for Western Visayas in the 4×50-meter medley relay, men’s 50-meter backstroke, and 50-meter butterfly
His brother, Martin Alphonse Bito-onon, also played a crucial role in the men’s 4×50-meter freestyle relay team's gold medal win. The young swimmer further contributed to the medal haul with a silver in the 50-meter backstroke.
Vhee Junnyne Militar showcased her versatility by winning a gold medal in the 50-meter backstroke, a silver in the 4×100-meter freestyle relay, and bronze medals in both the 100-meter and 50-meter breaststroke events.
In other notable performances, Carla Meishien Lucero of Capiz State University clinched her second gold medal of the tournament in the women’s 200meter dash event Earlier, Lucero had won gold in the women’s 100-meter dash and a bronze in the 4×100meter women’s relay, alongside teammates Jovelyn Otucan, Shainne Lou Rosas, and Cheryl Moana Alvarez.
Western Visayas swimming team finished fifth overall in the National SCUAA Games They secured second place in the men’s team category and fourth place on the women’s side.
The National SCUAA Meet 2023 featured intense competition and impressive athletic ability, raising the bar for future competitions and highlighting the exceptional talents found in state universities and colleges around the country
by: Eunice Loraine D. Nolasco
With the norm of having piles of daily workload and heaps of exams to prepare for, being a Taga-West student is already a feat in itself Some, however, had courage to take the path less taken and held the banner high in the field of sports, pursuing their passions even with the demands of the academe.
CAS Student-athletes are no stranger to this, as they joined the sets of West Visayas State University bannerholders among the thirteen competing schools for the week-long Regional State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association held in Carlos Hilado Memorial State University last September 10-16, 2023.
In this section, we take a look at the event’s preparation and actual matches through the CASimanwas who have experienced it firsthand
MOSESOLIVERBITO-ONON MOSESOLIVERBITO-ONON
How was your SCUAA experience?
The SCUAA experience was memorable, for sure even more so since it was my first and last Travelling with the thought [of the] number of backlogs and classes that [we] will be missing is surely the embodiment of being a student-athlete especially in a time-demanding course as there were moments where during rest and free time, I would try to do laboratory works and case studies Furthermore, I felt a genuine sense of kinship and solidarity with my fellow university representatives We encouraged one another through difficult times and applauded for one other when we were successful through the sense of unity It highlighted the bigger group of people I was a part of, going beyond the competition and encompassing the whole scope of my academic experience. Nevertheless, being able to competing alongside my teammates made my first and last SCUAA a lifetime memory
Was it any different from the previous competitions you attended?
The difference-maker between the previous competitions I have participated in, I believe, is the time in-between my last joined competition. The last notable competition I had at this competitive level was back in senior high school, around 2019 The feeling of nostalgia as an athlete came to me since we had a two-day competition that would express the importance of rest after the first day of competing In comparison to other competitions I have joined, another notable difference would be the format and the structure of the recent competition The departure from the traditional and the conventional structure presented a challenging element that made the competition more exciting and exhausting but it enhanced the overall experience of the competition.
How did it feel to represent the university?
It was thrilling and satisfying to represent the university in a competition It came with it a special set of feelings and obligations that helped me understand the importance and pride of serving as an athlete for my academic institution Initially the goal was to be at the best possible condition as an athlete and produce results to the fullest of my ability and it genuinely feels great to contribute to the overall medal-tally resulting in the Men’s swimming team to become the champion in the division In addition, the medal haul gained from the swimming team boosted the University’s medal tally that led to the result of becoming the overall champion of the competition The unending support of the university was felt throughout the competition and filled me with immense pride as an “Atletang Taga-West”.
How did you manage the SCUAA preparations on top of academic tasks?
BS
Biology - Medical Biology 4B
WVSU Representative for Swimming
Gold - 50m Butterfly
Gold - 50m Freestyle
Gold - 100m Backstroke
Gold - 100m Freestyle
Gold - 200m Freestyle
Gold - 4x50m Freestyle Relay
Bronze - 4x50m Medley Relay
As a graduating bio-student, juggling both academic demands and RSCUAA preparations was indeed a challenge I had to attend online classes while pouring every ounce of sweat in the badminton court just to prepare against the region’s finest state college and university athletes without compromising my studies Due to this pressure, it came to a point where I was about to let go of this massive opportunity But with time management and continued support from my teammates, coaches, and loved ones, I was motivated to continue and give pride to the university through the sport that I truly cherish
Do you have any key takeaways from your SCUAA experience?
Indeed, I am grateful that I took the chance to play badminton for WVSU Feelings of nostalgia and joy stirred within me as I spent days in the billeting camp with my fellow athletes, just like my good old high school days as a varsity player. Throughout the competition, seeing my fellow taga-West athletes give their all with burning passion in their respective sport reminded me of what it takes to become “the best”.
How did it feel to represent the university?
Representing the school for the first and last time at a regional level was a dream realized Although the entire experience was physically and mentally exhausting, I gained a sense of fulfillment knowing that I showcased everything that I have This RSCUAA experience is something that I will surely look back on from time to time with memories that I will forever treasure as a student-athlete
BS Biology - Medical Biology 4B WVSU Representative for Badminton
by: Lois Angella Manansala
Day 3 of CAS Days means Championship Day of the badminton games. Held last November 22, 2023, at the College of Medicine Gym, Aesira emerged victorious, overcoming challenging windy conditions The finals, featuring eight intense matches, determined the champions in various categories
Spectra clinched third place in Men's Singles with a 30-20 win over Aesira, while Manawari secured third in Women's Singles, defeating Aesira 30-19.
In Men's Doubles, Specula Nitidissima triumphed over Spectra 30-22, and in Women's Doubles, Manawari edged out Specula Nitidissima with a tight 20-20 score
In the championship matches, Specula Nitidissima won Men's Singles against Manawari 20-18 Spectra claimed victory in Women's Singles, defeating Specula Nitidissima 30-28. Aesira dominated in both Men's and Women's Doubles, beating Manawari 30-22 and Spectra 30-35, respectively SSmashingtheirwaytovictory!
Photo by Jemiel Arian P. Porras
Sigurado gid nga sa masahista ang diretso sang Spectra pagkatapos araruhon sang garagasa nga Aesira sa basketball men's finals sa score nga 68-56, pabor sa Aesira.
Wala sang ginbato ang mga gagmay lawas nga sophomores sa wala patay nga salaksak kag followthrough sang mga dalagko lawas nga seniors sa tanan nga possession. Tungod dire, kontrolado sang mga manong ang bilog nga hampang
Bisan lugi sa height, wala basta basta ginhatag sang 2nd years ang daog kag nalimita lamang ang lamang sang kontra sa 12 points
Pagkatapos sang daog, opisyal na nga back-to-back champions ang Aesira sa ini nga category.
ni: Paul Asi C Hitalia
Photos by Jemiel Arian P. Porras
Ginpakita gid sang Batch Spectra nga sila gihapon ang pinaka pag on nga mga babayi sa basketball court pagkatapos madaog kontra sa mas magulang kag eksperyensyado nga Batch Aesira sa iskor nga 28-8
Sa una lamang nga possession ginpatilaw sang lamang sang mga sophomores ang mga seniors. Pagkatapos sang lamang, daw kalayo nga nag sigrab ang ila mga kamot sa sobra kainit sang shooting nga nakahatag saila sang madako nga lamang hasta natapos ang hampang
Back-to-Back champions na ang Batch Spectra sa sini nga category, nga naging kampeonato man sang ligad nga tuig
Check...andMate!
by: Andre Aragorn Y Figueras
The chess games officially concluded after a rigorous exchange between players in order to defeat their adversaries on the board.
The first pair of men, the winners of the preliminaries, were Manawari’s Joseph Angelo Arsenio, who was tagged by Aquio to play the game against Specula Nitidissima’s Michael Oquendo With bishops, pawns, and the opposing kings remaining on the board, Arsenio resigned, leaving the Nitidissima contender in first place and Manawari’s tag-team of Arsenio and Aquio in second place, concluding with a 1-0 score
In the battle for third place, Aesira’s Julius Rae Dagooc played against Spectra’s Ivan Leonardo Calaor Both parties fought until the only pieces remaining on the board were pawns and the two kings
Despite either team having a chance to win via promotion, Dago-oc conceded defeat, giving Spectra the third place.
The remaining pair of women on the opposing sides of the board were Aesira’s Therese Marie Leornas, who was tagged in by Cayona to oppose Manawari’s Julie Ann Abutal, the victor of the first batch of women in the women’s category
Both parties fought strongly with both their queens and pairs of rooks still present by the endgame, and both sides were neck-in-neck to delivering a checkmate, but Abutal had lost a significant amount of time, and with only seconds remaining, had failed to thwart the Aesirian defense, which resulted in Leonas securing first place, and Abutal placing in a close second