CURSOR Publication Vol. XX, Issue No. 01.

OPINION

Filipino Resiliency p.13

LITERARY

Hapag Kainan p.21

CURSOR THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY

EDITORIAL ATBulsu 2021

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ISSUE NO. 1 VOLUME NO. XX OCTOBER 2020 - OCTOBER 2021

CICT dauntlessly upgrading despite odds with 10th IT Congress Jhasmine Estacio & Jonathan Pizarra

With the initiative of the Society for the Welfare of Information Technology Students (SWITS), the College of Information and Communications Technology (CICT) virtually celebrated its 10th IT Congress themed “Valor’s Vision: The Dauntless Upgrade” last June 07-11, 2021 using various online platforms.

For the past decade, SWITS has been organizing the event to help students showcase their potential and be more industry-ready. This year’s

edition is the longest IT Congress spanning five days. It is also the firstever virtually held and free IT Congress.

“The theme is very timely as we have to be dauntless and that we have to continuously upgrade amidst this pandemic to continue our mission of providing quality and relevant education,” said Dr. Keno C. Piad, CICT Dean, in his opening remarks.

“Despite all of the hardships that happened, we are still thankful and blessed as everything happened according to plans. Although there are some flaws and inadequacies, we still learned from them,” said SWITS President Lenith Pili regarding the

problems they faced as organizers.

After the opening salvo, the Mobile Legends and Valorant competitions were held on the second day. On the other hand, students took the spotlight on the third day in the X-QuizIT: Test of Knowledge, C++, and Java programming events.

Other competitions are the LayIT-Out: Unleashing Creative Minds organizational shirt competition; Digitech: Past, Present, Future digital art competition; and Valor’s Vision: Inspire. Educate. Motivate videomaking competition.

The fourth day was highlighted by the plenary webinar session entitled Valor’s Talk: Strengthens Mind and Spirit to Achieve Grit. Keynote speaker John Raphael Dela Paz, the owner of West Point Esports, talked about esports management and his experience in managing an esports team.

Patricia C. Cabacang, Advance App Engineering Associate Manager

CICT Dauntlessly Upgrading Despite Odds on the 10th IT Congress CICT 10th IT Congress

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The Society for the Welfare of Information and Technology Students conducted the 10th IT Congress: The Dauntless Upgrade, on June 8, 2021, via Facebook Live. | Photo by Sean Maverick Del Fonso

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Newly-elected CICT Local Student Council rises for AY 2021-2022 DANIKA ROSS CALUAG & RORY LANCE LARIT

The University Commission on Student Elections – Bulsu UCSE officially announced the winners of the Local Student Council (LSC) election last April 26 – 28, 2021.

After BULSUONE failed to have any candidates running for all CICT LSC positions, the rest of KASAMA BulSU was automatically elected for the positions.

CICT Christian Magallon, a BLIS Student from KASAMA BulSU got the position as the newly elected Governor with 466 votes, and Edison Tuazon, a BSIT Student from the same party got the position as Vice Governor with 422 votes.

For the BSIT Board Member of CICT Local Student Council, Jason Escasinas from KASAMA BulSU got the first spot with a total of 304 votes. Andreana Celestinne Aguilar from KASAMA BulSU got the second spot with 301 votes, John Carlo Rapiz

The Local Student Council for AY 2021-2022 (left to right) are Jason Escasinas, Andreana Aguilar, Edison Tuazon, Christian Magallon, Rhea Mhel Tayao, and John Carlo Rapiz. | Photo from CICT

from KASAMA BulSU got the third spot with 297 votes, and Rhea Mhel Tayao from KASAMA BulSU got the position for BLIS Board Member with 206 votes.

The College of Information and Communications Technology had an 812 total number of registered voters while there were 505 total number of Casted voters, and 307 total number of

absent voters. Due to the demanding amount of data to be translated from the digital votes, the Commission convened as the University Canvassing Board held its En Banc Session. The UCB casted the votes during the University-wide Student Government Election 2021 last April 29, 2021.

CICT 10th IT Congress FROM PAGE 1

at Accenture Philippines, tackled game development. Cabacang presented the creation of customized virtual spaces that are web-friendly and the breakdown of all the challenges developers encounter during the process.

Xavier Lexus Concepcion, an Agile Delivery Lead of Exceed

Philippines and Application Senior Analyst at Accenture, shared his expertise on The Iterative Process: Agile from a Developer’s Perspective.

He shared how Agile is incorporated with game development and how it is utilized in the IT industry.

Pili encouraged students at the closing ceremony. “Kahit po tapos

na ang IT Congress, let us still continue to make things happen while dauntlessly upgrading,” she said.

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CICT Partners with AAP, Oracle Academy and Red Hat Academy ELISHA JOY CASTRO

The College of Information and Technology partnered with three of the most established companies in the IT industry here in the Philippines, the Analytics Association of the Philippines (AAP), Oracle Academy, and Red Hat Academy, last June 14, 2021.

The Analytics Association of the Philippines (AAP) is an organization formed to take the lead in driving the

growth and evolution of analytics and other analytics-enabled fields and technologies in the country.

On the other hand, Oracle Academy provides educational institutions with the resources to help educators develop core computing knowledge and skills aligned to industry standards and using current technologies, so they can teach students the skills they need to succeed.

Lastly, Red Hat Academy is an academic training program that transforms institutions into centers for

enterprise-ready talent through Red Hat training and certifications.

This collaboration is a way to build the connection between companies in the IT industry and improve the quality of education in CICT. The College of Information and Communications Technology will rise as a top IT school in Bulacan and the Philippines by this partnership.

CICT representative wins in Y4IT DANIKA ROSS CALUAG & RORY LANCE LARIT

Two teams from the College of Information and Communications Technology (CICT) won in the Youth Congress on Information

Technology - Y4IT. The competition was organized by the UP System Information Technology Foundation last May 15 and 22, 2021.

The Best Paper & Best Presenter award was achieved by the “The Light of End: A 3D Action Role-Playing

A screenshot taken during Y4IT Research Summit 2021 featuring The Light of The End. | Photo from Derick Patricio

Game”, led by capstone project team leader Michael Ysmael D. Fernandez Jr. with Vince Gabriel T. Angeles, Frederick C. Aguilar, Danielle John A. Bautista, Harold Darcy A. Blas, Jevelyn P. Dongsal, Krystal Rose G. Enrico, Nicole Ann O. Joaquin, Aaron Michael DJ. Leoncio, Desiree Mae L. Naluz, and Rafael M. Vergara.

Additionally, CICT presented “Roadtriv: Geographical Information System Guide for City of Malolos” by poster presentation delegate team led by capstone project team leader Zion Abraham D. Robles and presenter Jashley Renz M. Victoria with other team members Geoffrey Agustin, Geno Boy Resurreccion, Wilfredo San Pedro Jr., and Freddie Tabuzo.

Both teams were coached by Ms. Lilibeth Antonio, Mr. Jayson Batoon, and Ms. Jane Kristine Suarez.

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CICT students battle it out in the 10th IT Congress skills competitions ELISHA JOY CASTRO & RED JOHNPAUL CRUZ

The Society for the Welfare of Information Technology Students conducted various skills competitions for BSIT students as part of the 10th IT Congress last June 7-11, 2021.

Among the competitions was the Valor’s Vision: “Inspire. Educate.

Motivate” video editing contest, Digitech: “Past, Present, Future” digital art contest, C++ programming, and Java programming. SWITS also conducted the X-QuizIT: “Test of Knowledge” as part of the competitions lined up for the Congress.

The winners of the skills competition gave their gratitude to

the SWITS organization for the event during the 10th IT Congress’ closing day.

The winner of the Digitech digital art contest, Ms. Marielle De Guzman said, “At first, hindi ko alam paano simulan ito pero hindi ako tumigil na

Competition Valor’s Vision: “Inspire. Educate.

Motivate” video editing contest Digitech: “Past, Present, Future” digital art contest C++ Programming Java Programming X-QuizIT: “Test of Knowledge”

i-express yung sarili ko. Napakita ko yung talent ko through digital art.”.

The winners of the various skills competitions were announced during the closing day of the 10th IT Congress last June 11, 2021. The winners were:

Winner/s Team Prix - Andrei Joseph L. Tolentino and Vincent Albert M. De Lara Marielle D. De Guzman Charles Jason Garcia John Israel J. Centen Johanna Therese Buena

CICT representatives qualify as top 20 finalists in EU Whiz competitions JHASMINE JANE ESTACIO

The Delegation of the European Union in the Philippines organized an online competition entitled EU Whiz: Filipino Youth of the fEUture Competition, where several students from the CICT) represented the university.

The said competition had three categories: Digital Art Competition, Online Trivia Competition, and Video Competition. The European Union in the Philippines officially posted the list of finalists for the video and digital art who made it to the Top 20 finalists out

The awarding ceremony of the EU Whiz competitions last June 26, 2021. | Photo from Antonne John Obispo

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of 102 total entries competitions on June 21, 2021.

For the digital art competition, The Seeds of Tomorrow produced by Maria Angelica Christine Estuaria, Marc David Magracia, and Mary Gaebrielle Pangan made it to the top 20 finalists of the competition.

When asked if there are any difficulties on their journey, Mary Gabrielle Pangan said, “Our team’s biggest challenge in preparing our submission for the EU Whiz digital competition is coming up with ideas to use in the entry. We’ve explored ideas that we can adapt and use in the entry we’ve prepared.”

“To be honest, we didn’t expect to be among the top 20 finalists, and we were surprised when we did. We are

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just grateful that we made it this far,” she added.

For the video competition, two of the entries qualified in the top 20.

The two entries are Silenced by Ansel Marquez, Tham Payuan, and Von Paulo Plaza, and Be Safe Online; Help Yourself, Help Others by John Jonathan De Paz, Julius Allan Libao, and Joshua Santiago. The teams were coached by Mr. Marcus Tiongson and Mr. John Lemuel Salazar, respectively.

Additionally, other BulSU-CICT entries, unfortunately, didn’t make it to the top 20 finalists.

The entries for Digital Art competitions are The Power of Social Media in Fulfilling our Environmental Responsibility by Jheremie Campillanes, Jhondell Enriquez, and

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Reynald Magana, and Towards the Greener Realm by Johanna Camille Bernabe, Bon Andrei Ingco, and Alfredo Zacarias. Both teams were coached by Mr. John Lemuel Salazar.

Another entry for the video competition was Space Within Us

by John Russel Angulo, Elisha Bless Macapagal, and Ibrahim Santiago. The team was coached by Mr. John Lemuel Salazar.

The awarding started on June 26 at 3 PM, and it streamed through the European Union to the Philippines’ official Facebook page. The top 20 finalists have received a Realme Smartwatch, an EU Whiz shirt, and a notebook.

BulSU’s first Academic Year under the pandemic LORI PEREZ & JONATHAN PIZARRA

The academic year 2019 - 2020 ended sooner than expected due to the imposed lockdowns brought by the pandemic. This forced the Bulacan State University to implement alternative learning modalities. On October 19, 2020, the BulSU started its first-ever flexible learning set-up.

In its attempt to cater to all students, BulSU offered three modalities of learning for students namely, Asynchronous Online Learning (AOL); Synchronous Learning (SL); and Remote Printed Learning (RPL).

Students who chose SL are required to attend online sessions daily just like in face-to-face classes. AOL students are required to attend a subject twice a

The CICT’s online general assembly Call on Dean was hosted by Sir Keno Piad (upper photo), the College Dean, and Mr. John Michael Calizon(lower photo). | Photo from Sean Maverick Del Fonso

month for consultation regarding their modules. On the other hand, in RPL modality, students are given printed modules that they have to study on their own.

All modalities of learning faced different problems. Throughout the semesters, there were positive and negative comments and opinions from the students regarding their

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experiences.

“Ang mga struggles na napagdaanan ko sa online modality na learning ay first, slow internet connection. Second, limited internet data. Third, maraming distraction tulad ng tao, bagay at hayop,” said Cedric Geronimo from BSIT-3C. “Although we could stay in the comfort of our house, we are losing the chance to engage in the real world. . . . I did not get the chance to know my classmates and it is affecting my interaction towards them, especially when we are having a group work,” a first-year student from CICT said.

“Treating my online course the

same way with face-to-face class even though it’s not easy for us. . . . I set goals at the beginning of semester by being organized, pro-active and selfaware,” said Eloisa Shane Fajardo from BLIS-2A. When asked about the efficiency of the new learning modalities, students weigh the advantages and disadvantages of the online mode of learning.

Sa advantage, nakakatulong ka sa mga gawaing bahay lalo na sa mga single parents . . . hindi mo kailangan gumising ng maaga at bumyahe ng maaga. . . . While sa disadvantage naman, yun nga hindi ka

nakakapagfocus . . . and threat sya sa mental health ng karamihan kasi sabay sabay yung gawain, ” a second year CICT student said.

“At some point oo, kasi it breaks the standard system ng pag aaral, a new experience is a gain sa opinyon ko, pero in general hindi sya ganon ka effective, kasi hindi sya applicable para sa lahat, ” said Kier Joshua Dinate from BSIT-3H. “It’s more difficult to live with this pandemic. Online classes have been tough since a lot of changes had occurred,” said Kyle Andrei Crisostomo from BSIT-1H.

BEST THESIS – THE LIGHT OF END: A 3D Action Role-Playing Game DANIKA ROSS CALUAG & JHASMINE JANE ESTACIO

This Academic Year 2020-2021, the project titled THE LIGHT OF END: A 3D Action Role-Playing Game achieved the Best Thesis award from the College of Information and Communication Technology.

The project was led by Michael Ysmael Fernandez with his teammates Vince Gabriel Angeles, Frederick Aguilar, Danielle John Bautista, Harold Darcy Blas, Jevelyn Dongsal, Krystal Rose Enrico, Nicole Ann Joaquin, Aaron Michael Leoncio, Desiree Mae Naluz, and Rafael Vergara, with their supportive adviser, Mr. Jayson Batoon.

According to the team leader, Michael Ysmael Fernandez, the game that they developed is to inspire future game developers to improve the Action Role-Playing (ARPG) in the Philippines, as well as to inspire people

The process behind the CICT’s Best Thesis Award for the AY 2020-2021. | Photo from Derick Patricio

with serious conditions in life today.

In making the project during the pandemic, their team took their time at home to study Unreal Engine 4 and to prepare the assets that will be used in the development of the game.

Moreover, the team was inspired to make this project come to reality to dedicate this game to those people who

are affected by the pandemic.

Michael ended his statement with a message to future researchers, “My only advice to future researchers is that when they choose their thesis title, they should choose to develop a system that suits their passion because you will be diligent to finish the system you are developing,” said Michael.

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Team adviser Mr. Jayson Batoon affirmed that he believes in excellence, and he truly adheres to it and practices this perspective in everything he does.

When asked about a specific style in mentoring the researchers, Batoon

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stated that he does have a unique strategy. Rather, he focuses on aiming for excellence through guiding and reminding the team of the things they need to meet and accomplish in due time.

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Their entire journey was not a smooth-sailing one because developing a 3D game application requires a lot of time and effort. As an adviser, he admits that the challenging part of mentoring is facilitating the team virtually.

They did not expect anything at all at the very beginning, but as competitors, the team continued to work hard because they have the guts to do so, and the project that they are developing has an edge when it comes to bringing home an award.

“Success is not being perfect.

It is all about giving your heart and best towards something,” Mr. Batoon concluded.

CICT takes part in IRCITE 2021 As part of this year’s International Research Conference on Information Technology Education (IRCITE) themed “Transforming IT Research Landscape in the New Normal” organized by the Philippine Society of Information Technology

Educators (PSITE) Central Luzon Chapter, PSITE launched several competitions in different categories virtually held last May 7, 2021.

In the Tiktok Challenge, CICT delegates Jenron Mae de Castro, Mary Grace S. Rivas, Mary Joyce M. Reyes, Louisa Marie C. Espiritu, and Jeanne Ruby H. Bernardo coached by Ms.

Elaine Regalado placed as 1st runner up in the said category.

Other skills competitions in the event included the Microsoft Cloud Skill Competition, Digital Arts Competition, and the Student and Faculty Paper Presentation.

The CICT delegates for IRCITE are:

Category

Delegates

Coach

JHASMINE JANE ESTACIO

Tiktok Challenge

Jenron Mae De Castro, Mary Grace Rivas, Mary Joyce Reyes, Louisa Marie Espiritu, Jeanne Ruby Bernardo Microsoft Cloud Skill Competition Erica Roman, Angela May Dela Cruz Digital Arts Competition Entry 1: Madeline Nicole Chua Entry 2: Norene Marichelle Morales Student Paper Presentation Michael Ysmael Hernandez, Jashley Renz Victoria Faculty Paper Presentation Mr. Aaron Paul Dela Rosa, Dr. Alex Caparas, Engr. Robethel DR. Andres

Ms. Elaine Regalado

Mr. Renar Dizon Mr. Melvin Delos Reyes Mas. Lourdes Tiongson

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#StruggleIsReal Lorilie Perez | Staff Writer lorilie.perez.b@bulsu.edu.ph I am always anxious about the probability of finding a job after graduation or either during school.

Just what elders used to quote, “money doesn’t grow on trees.” Hard work, patience, and being constant are part of the “job” starter pack.

Even “finding a job.”

Prior to the pandemic, job hunting was already like a treasure hunt. You may have a map, knowing where you were headed, yet the uncertainty of a treasure’s presence was never absent. Like an adventurer, born to conquer obstacles, only that you were not the only adventurer, the competition was everywhere, which is more incremented now in this time of a health crisis.

As a student who struggles with money, I anticipated being a working college student back then.

I want to make money to lessen my parents’ luggage, which as of the moment, is unaccomplished. With a virus on the loose, human actions are limited. Torn between money or health, school or survival, in a snap, we got to the walls of our houses.

Settled in, most of us for the online classes, but the worries about school expenses are still within the grip. Instead of everyday allowance for food, transportation, and school supplies, all were diverted to spend for an internet connection and a gadget for online schooling. As we

know, it’s quite pricey. Not all were privileged to access online classes without worries about the internet connection. We have to earn more to cover that, but the situation does not favor us.

There were limited hiring jobs since establishments were closed temporarily or worst, permanently due to the consequences of the pandemic; the fears of infection, of getting sick related to the virus.

Even with the age bracket policy, only those within the bracket were permitted to go outside.

A lot of factors conspires each and every working student and

student who wishes to work to achieve the goal of covering school expenses and other matters. It ends with them having a choice to make, which was to choose as a last resort? Was it to study online, pay the internet, and buy gadgets? Or is it to stop for the meantime due to financial reasons and incapability to earn money part-time?

Both times, the classes of the past and the online classes of today, we had coverage of expenses. It’s only the pandemic that almost tied our hands and feet. Opportunities were cut down and mostly focused on online.

Life is indeed a test; filled with multiple-choice questions.

An answer will lead one thing to another. At the end of the day, you have to choose the best option you have right now.

Greater Than Gold Jonathan Pizarra | Sports Editor jonathan.pizarra.t@bulsu.edu.ph

In the middle of the pandemic where we can’t seem to find something to celebrate as a country, Hidilyn Diaz lifted our hopes for that elusive gold medal in the Olympics.

Her golden podium finish in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics will cement herself in history and will be the icon of Philippine sports for years to come.

More than the prestige it brings on the global stage, her gold medal is

the epitome of what we are, what we could’ve been, and what we could be as a nation in the field of sports and beyond.

She showed that by knowing our strengths, together with hard work, discipline, determination, and desire to succeed, we can achieve greatness. It’s not a secret formula, but we seem to overlook it, especially the part about knowing our strengths.

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In the field of sports and even in other aspects of our nation, we seem to choose the ones that don’t really fit in the shoes. It’s not that we shouldn’t, but knowing where our strength lies is something that we should always consider foremost.

That is why it is imperative that we find and nurture young talents and make all efforts to help them reach their full potential.

Yes, there are grass root programs now to find those young talents in several sport disciplines, but in the future, where is the assurance that they’ll still get the support they need, that they won’t have to ask for support because those in power are too busy to bother, and that their talents will not be wasted because someone from the sports governing body only wants success for themselves?

In 2015, because of a leadership dispute, the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) removed the Philippine Volleyball Federation (PVF) as the recognized national sports federation for volleyball. PVF was replaced by Larong Volleyball sa Pilipinas Inc. (LVPI). We were once a volleyball powerhouse in Southeast Asia way back in the ‘70s and ‘80s.

Back in 2005, FIBA suspended the Philippines from any international competition because of the conflict between the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) and the Basketball Association of the Philippines (BAP).

Basketball is an interesting sport for us Filipinos. We love the sport so much that almost every barangay

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has a decent basketball court, yet we can’t seem to play at par with the top countries now. Gone are the glory days of Philippine basketball, where we even qualified in the Olympics.

Much of what’s left now is a remnant of the past that we still can’t replicate.

The “Laban Pilipinas, Puso!” tagline became a theme whenever we compete on the international stage. Aside from its patriotic vibe, it also seems to echo a message that our level of play isn’t at par with the best anymore and that we just keep on believing and hoping that there’s a chance to relive our glory.

Sport is a reflection of a country’s

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desire for greatness and what we can do to achieve it. In our case, Hidilyn showed us the glaring mistakes we made and the hints on what we can do to change the current status of Philippine sports.

Hidilyn may not be the tallest, but the moment she lifted those heavyweights, she stood taller than any Filipino, even to those who think they stood above everyone else. She took the spotlight from those who doesn’t deserve it. She put that spotlight not just on her but also on the sport disciplines where we can really excel and give prestige to our country.

BREAKING THE SILENCE:

THE TRUTH ABOUT FILIPINO RESILIENCY Jhasmine Estacio | Staff Writer jhasmine.estacio.x@bulsu.edu.ph

As Filipino citizens, aside from being hospitable, we are also known for having the characteristic of being resilient. Starting from the past decades that different nations colonized us and being a country that is always prone to natural disasters like typhoons, earthquakes, soil erosions, and volcanic eruptions, our resiliency remains firm amidst challenges.

Besides, we also experience a wide variety of social issues that keep on boggling the system. There is an evident presence of injustice, poverty, hunger, increasing unemployment rates, low wages, and the worst of all cases already happened in the year 2020 up to the

present, wherein we are extensively tested by the COVID-19 pandemic and the crisis it has brought. Due to the massive complications and social dilemmas we have been through for almost decades now, it is carved in the wall of reality that we have no options but to face whatever comes and suffer from it.

Remembering the story of Ariel Quiom, whose parents are both working despite odds as farmers to support and finance their son’s education in the Ateneo de Naga University, Quiom graduated as cum laude, and all his perseverance, together with his parents, finally paid off. The story of Quiom gained a lot of reactions from the

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netizens, and a lot of people who are struggling in life make his story a living inspiration. His journey is a proof that we are avid fans of success and rags to riches stories because it makes us feel that nothing in this world is labeled as “impossible.”

Furthermore, Ariel Quiom’s story of success is not the only inspiring story we’ve heard of, there are thousands of it, and I do not condemn people for believing in hope and the power of positivity.

Replacing your fears into a giant beam of hope and optimism is not a big deal at all. But for some reason, believing too much and romanticizing this weak spot of Filipinos will never be the answer to all the situations we are experiencing right now.

In the survey that was carried out by an independent pollster, Social Weather Stations (SWS) in July 2020, almost half of the employed Filipinos before the outbreak were unemployed now. In figures, the population is struggling to find ways in sustaining their daily needs for living. With this, it can be greatly remembered that the Presidential Spokesperson, Harry Roque, expressed his views regarding the severe economic crisis in one of his sessions.

According to him, there are numerous reasons to be happy than to be shocked by the poll results that include 27.3 million or about 45.5% of the country’s population were unemployed in the month of July. “I am glad to hear that we didn’t hit 100 percent in terms of unemployment because we’ve been

under lockdown for so long. I’m still surprised at our resilience that only 45% lost their jobs. It could have been worse since we’re experiencing complete lockdowns” - he added.

His commentary gained different opinions from the netizens. Some marked his words as negligence of the Duterte administration and even coiled to “insensitive leadership with no sense of urgency at all”; nevertheless, there are still people who defended his statement and viewed it as a ray of positivity in tough times which they believed is the way all of us should be interpreting the statement.

Indeed, our resiliency in all kinds

of situations is commendable and so is our ability to adapt ourselves to unforeseen changes. But let me reiterate that the definition of the term resiliency is not an equivalent excuse for all the administrations’ duties, responsibilities, and liabilities to the country and its people. It will never be an answer or a sustainable solution to all the screams of the poor, of the oppressed, of the frontliners who are working all day just to prolong life of Filipinos and of everyone who is anticipating this nightmare to reach its end. May we exercise our rights to speak and be heard. Let us demand accountability.

How Other Countries Took Advantage of the Pandemic vs.

How the Philippines Handled It Rory Lance Larit | News and Current Affairs Editor

rorylance.larit.s@bulsu.edu.ph

The spread of COVID-19 all over the world had been a huge impact on everyone’s daily lives over the course of the last 2 years, apart from huge countries, many of which started to quickly heal and develop a foolproof plan that had been tackled for over years of preparation by professionals in case of a breakout, to which in this timeline, had been used to its full extent.

But unfortunately for the Philippines, I had seen no sign of a concrete plan and response to the growing outbreak of COVID-19 with clear transparency of funds being used correctly and fairly in

medical use.

Comparing to other countries, how did they handle the pandemic, and what was the Philippines’ response to it?

For starters, the pandemic started in Wuhan City, China, but it seems like they had everything under control in months. During the pandemic, and while other countries were busy with it, China was pursuing disputed territories, like in Taiwan, Hong Kong, and especially the South China Sea. While the Philippines is still struggling with the increase of COVID-19 cases in the nation,

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China used it as an opportunity to deploy fishing fleets inside the Philippine territory, and it raised tensions between countries, although several diplomatic protests had been filed against China, the Duterte Administration’s response during the pandemic and over the recent issue was extremely disappointing.

As for the Duterte administration’s response, it’s clear that President Duterte still wants to trust China despite this issue as he pled for more vaccines for the country; people now think that he traded the sovereignty of our seas in exchange for COVID-19 vaccines while the rest of the world still doesn’t trust China and health experts in different countries not recognizing their vaccines to be effective.

Additionally, New Zealand used the pandemic to choose the best of their people to handle situations like this, New Zealand became COVID-19 free in almost an instant due to selected officials that had been selected through their respective backgrounds and degrees in their specialized fields.

When anything is violated, whether a person is rich, poor, or a politician, they immediately tendered their resignations and faced the public’s criticisms.

Meanwhile, the Philippines is currently being run by a boxer, a comedian, an actor, a criminal, a human rights violator, and so much more, with the audacity to stay in power even after every illegal violation and especially health

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protocol violations in this time of pandemic led to the very downfall of the Philippines’ response to the pandemic.

From the underpaid health workers, endless lockdowns, the funds invested in the dolomite sand in Manila Bay, I kept wondering who and where the priority of those in power lies?

From what I see is that the response to the pandemic is to wait for vaccines from the other side of the world, while we let our private

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sectors do all the work that the government should be responsible for, despite trillions of debts and misused funds is a build-up that doesn’t really back up the statements being released of the words “We are doing everything we can to serve the people.”

All of this so-called response left the Philippines to have the longest lockdown and ended up being one of a small number of countries still in lockdown and moving at a snail’s pace.

Pay For the Heroes, Pray for the Heroes Elisha Joy Castro | Staff Writer elishajoy.castro.b@bulsu.edu.ph This past year has been a tough one, especially for our medical frontliners. COVID-19 is no joke to everyone. Many people are suffering this pandemic because of this virus, our heroes are one of those. They have been battling this war for many months, to the point of losing themselves and their family.

Hard work and sacrifice are the words that struck my mind when I think of our frontliners. They have been serving and aiding the needs of people that have been positive of the COVID-19 virus. But how about them?

Do they get what they deserve from the government?

The government has issued an act intended for the medical frontliners and the COVID-19 response, including their hazard pay, called the Bayanihan Act. The government should give 500 Php daily hazard pay for every medical

frontliner in the Philippines.

But, here is the truth; their 500 pesos daily hazard pay is far away from happening. Recently, a nurse in Cainta, Rizal have died of COVID-19. She became viral when her daughter posted the story of her inadequate hazard pay on social media. The hazard pay the government gave before she died is only 60 Php daily. From the promised amount of 500 pesos, it surely wasn’t the amount they expected.

Everyone, especially the medical frontliners, was enraged. They do not deserve this kind of treatment. Maria Theresa Cruz did not deserve to die and have only a 60 Php daily hazard pay.

They deserve the right compensation from the government. “It is not really the money, it’s really the plight of the frontline workers,” words from Joie Cruz, the daughter of Maria Theresa Cruz.

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With the rising surge of the Delta variant in our country, many medical workers are overworked but underpaid. This is the sad reality of the healthcare system of the Philippines.

Most of them are underpaid before the pandemic. Then the pandemic came, it has worsened and exposed the salary issue for the country’s healthcare professionals. This situation led some medical frontliners to resign due to stress, fatigue, overworking, illness, and lack of compensation. On the other

hand, some stayed to aid the medical needs of the Filipinos because they have a sworn duty to serve the country.

The sad reality is this – The COVID-19 virus will be in our lives forever. Like other illnesses in this world, this virus will affect us in years.

But thanks to our medical workers, the world is fighting against this war. This alone proves that they deserve a right and just compensation for their act of service. They are also people just like us. They are also a father, a mother,

Satirical Realities: Manny Pacquiao’s 2022 Presidential Bid Red Johnpaul Cruz | Editor-in-Chief redjohnpaul.cruz.s@bulsu.edu.ph

Growing up, most young Filipinos like me were already aware of the fame and respect that now-senator Manny Pacquiao has commanded from Filipinos. By being a global sports superstar who put the Philippines on the map, there was really no way of being unaware of what he’s accomplished.

When he has a match, one thing’s for sure back then; the whole country will have their eyes stuck to the TV for one day, patiently waiting for his time in the boxing ring. Even if the broadcasts were always late and the results were already out long before the match has finished, Filipinos would still watch every round with intensity.

However, the public’s views on Manny Pacquiao started to turn sour as he delved into politics. In 2007, the Philippine sports icon ran for a seat in the House of Representatives to represent the 1st District of South Cotabato province under the proArroyo Kabalikat ng Malayang Pilipino (KAMPI).

While he failed to achieve his political ambition, it was a significant point in his political career, and in 2010, Pacquiao finally had his wish. He ran for a congressional seat representing the Sarangani province, his wife Jinkee Pacquiao’s hometown, and won. Since then, he never looked back.

In 2013, he was re-elected to the 16th Congress of the Philippines.

While he was popular on the ballots, he certainly wasn’t popular at all in the House of Representatives’ attendance sheet. The Filipino boxing icon turned senator was known to skip on sessions due to his other commitments, which include his boxing career and a short and questionable, if not outright strange basketball career in the Philippine Basketball Association.

While he did have other commitments, running for a government position even when you know that you won’t give justice to the post shows irresponsibility and a lack of respect for the position and the Filipino

and a child to their family. They are the most vulnerable people to get the virus.

I hope the government will treat our heroes fairly. May their sacrifice be worth it. Let us pray for our government and our medical workers. As Filipinos, let us help one another in fighting this virus. May the government pay the right compensation for our heroes, and may we pray for them in fighting this battle.

people.

Even with such glaring signs of incompetence and irresponsibility that he surely was aware of, they certainly didn’t stop him from announcing his candidacy for Senator in the 2016 elections under the United Nationalist Alliance (UNA) party of vice-president Jejomar Binay, who was carrying the party’s banner as their presidential candidate.

With his immense popularity, Pacquiao was elected as a Senator, garnering the 7th most votes of the 12 elected senators during the 2016 elections. And when it comes to 2016, there’s one name that it’s synonymous with for the Philippines, and it’s the Duterte name.

In 2016, it was PDP Laban’s Rodrigo Duterte who won the presidential race, carrying promises of eradicating drugs, suppressing corruption, and basically turning the Philippines around. With Binay out of the picture, Pacquiao was quick to switch sides to the Duterte regime.

During the first few months of the Duterte administration, Pacquiao was one of the senators who supported the ouster of Senate Justice committee chairman Leila de Lima, who was a strong enemy of Duterte’s War On Drugs.

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Pacquiao, a known devoted Christian, supported Duterte’s War On Drugs, which claimed lives by the thousands, legitimately or not. While it shows a contradiction between Pacquiao’s beliefs and his political agenda, it was not a surprise because it was not the first time that he aligned himself with questionable personalities, as he did with Arroyo and Binay.

On October 1, 2021, the boxing champion filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) to start his official presidential bid for the 2022 Philippine National Elections two weeks after he announced his intention last September 19, 2021.

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While every Filipino has a right to run for President, it’s not a question of wanting. It should be a question of quality, and it’s a question that Pacquiao should ask himself first. Is he qualified?

Technically, yes.

But, for someone with a lacking political background, and with even less leadership experience and achievements to be proud of, it’s utterly ridiculous of him to run for President.

Need I mention that he’s also made homophobic statements in the past and has struggled to keep his job as a public servant and being an “active” Christian separate? It’s like a satire of GTA V levels, except it’s the reality here in the

ELECTION 2022: For Better, or for Worse?

Danika Ross Caluag | Staff Writer danikaross.caluag.p@bulsu.edu.ph On the impending end of Duterte’s Administration, we’ll give another term for the winning candidates next year.

What should we expect in the incoming election for the year 2022? Will it be the beginning of positive change, or will it be another term of frustration?

As we look back on the last 2016 national elections, it was a fiery election.

Some of the voters are satisfied with the result, and others are not. Normally, we have different political views, and we cannot avoid having our own bias when it comes to the candidates or parties, which is actually better, as it shows voters have their own stands.

It takes just a little different when it comes to our perspective about those people who we stand for. However, in the status of our nation today, where the number of COVID-19 cases in our country still rising, and our government has a slow response to our healthcare

OPINION 13

system, wherein our economic status falls, the justice system is unfair, and corrupt politicians remain working in the higher positions of government.

These are just some of the issues faced by most of our fellow Filipinos are facing right now.

Maybe it is enough to say that we need a new government. I hope all these bad circumstances will be eye-opening to those people who were blind to the ugly truth of the society that we have today. We must see this catastrophe as a lesson for the sake of tomorrow’s dream.

And for the past election, let us learn from our mistakes to give our country a positive change.

We don’t deserve this kind of government because we deserve a clean government. However, who among the candidates will deserve the positions in the national government? And what are the characteristics that candidates

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Philippines.

The presidency is for someone with a great vision, who also possesses the qualities of leadership, strength, and passion, to navigate the complex maze that is the Philippine government to ensure the good of the Filipino people.

For someone who seems to be so easy to manipulate, it’s confusing why Pacquiao sees himself as a President. In the political climate, Pacquiao will only be the puppet of other politicians much more politically able and cunning than him.

Even more so, it’s even more peculiar and confusing why people see him as a viable Presidential candidate. must have to say that they are the right choice?

Choosing the right leaders for our country is hard, especially if we have a different political view. However, we need to be smart voters in nominating candidates for the next election.

Choosing the right leaders is not about what parties they belong to or what families they hail from. More so, it is not about their looks, their popularity, or even how influencers recommend them.

You need to check their background on your own, for you to know if they are deserving to serve our country.

In the incoming election, as a student, we also have a part for the election 2022. In doing our part, you must be a registered voter. The change will start with you, not in the hands of the candidates.

And to us, as young adults in this millennium generation, we need to get involved in the happenings in our country because our future depends here. In the upcoming national election, the youth should do their part for the country’s sake. The youth need to make a difference.

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CURSOR Publication October 2020 - October 2021

elationship: a word that gives excitement and kilig, seeks intimacy and commitment, is willing to give time, effort, and attention, and most importantly, it is a decision. But, what if it is longdistance? And worse, we’re in the middle of a pandemic. Will you survive in this kind of setup? Are you willing to take the risk? Is it worth it?

This time of the pandemic, many couples struggle with distant relationships. Suddenly, some relationships became LDR, and it has made things worse for couples already in the LDR setup even before the pandemic. Being in a long-distance relationship is harder than you think. There will be misunderstandings, a

lot of patience, and trust issues.

Longing for someone is difficult to endure, especially when endless lockdowns are involved. But as they say, “absence makes the heart fonder.” Many couples have said that distance is not a hindrance but a motivation to survive their own relationships.

There are many ways to survive the LDR setup amidst pandemic, and here are some of them:

communication.

Video call and audio call. “Can I call?” is a simple question, but it has a huge impact on every couple out there. Communication is the key in every relationship. You are lucky to have someone that listens to your endless stories and is willing to give time to call you. Make sure to keep it going with constant

Plan things together. I know that many planned things were ruined by this pandemic, but planning is a reminder that there is something to wait for after months or years of not seeing each other. Plan trips after lockdowns. Go to beaches or just do road tripping. Eat out at your favorite restaurants or cook at home.

Do stuff together, virtually. The pandemic made people embrace technology in many ways. As a couple, you can be creative. Watch Netflix series or movies together through Zoom. Be each other’s “ka-duo” in Call of Duty or Mobile Legends. Whatever you enjoy, try to find a way to do it, even in a virtual setting.

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BY ELISHA JOY CASTRO

Just make sure to keep safe. Plan your future. Even if you are miles apart, the end goal is the both of you. Eventually, these future plans will become your present.

Trust each other. “TRUST? Wow, big word!”. Just as Laida Magtalas said, it’s a big word indeed. Building trust in every relationship is a must. As much as possible, avoid making your partner have doubts, but instead assure your partner that they are the only one.

Stay Committed. Aside from trusting, staying committed is important. If a couple is committed to each other, even distance and the

pandemic will have a tough time breaking the two of them. A longdistance relationship is a test of time. Make sure to stay with each other through thick and thin.

It isn’t hard right? Many couples have survived being distant from each other. As long as you are together and long for each other, trying to keep it all together is definitely with it. Yes, distance is a problem, but your love towards each other is greater above all. Quoted from the song 214 by Rivermaya, “Cause’ time may pass and everything may last.”

Photo by Sean Maverick Del Fonso

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CURSOR Publication October 2020 - October 2021

Finding A Love Life During the Pandemic

BY DANIKA ROSS CALUAG

D

uring the pandemic, when everything is uncertain, most single men and women experience loneliness and boredom. Some of those singles express worry, doubt, and fear that they will never find their special someone, while others cannot help but be envious every time they see sweet couples around.

According to a February 2020 report by the Philippine Statistic Authority (PSA), there are 34.8 million single or unmarried individuals, which account for 44% of the total population in the past ten years and older. Are you counted in this report?

If you are, here are some ways to find a love life during a pandemic: Be Ready - In entering a relationship, you must be ready. The essence of being ready to be in a relationship is being happy with yourself. Make sure before you give love to others, you must love yourself first.

There’s nothing wrong with using dating apps – Using dating apps is not always about flirting. It’s made to allow Photo by Reynald Magana

you to conveniently meet and connect with like-minded people, which can more than offset the potential costs in their use. It also has begrudgingly become a necessity for the pandemic singleton.

Getting to know each other – Everything starts in this “getting to know each other” stage. You will not be attached to someone if you know nothing about them. This stage is not only about knowing their family background, their favorites, hobbies, and other slambook types of information. It’s all about knowing them deeply. Moreover, it’s the most important stage during these times since we are dealing with online set-up.

Discuss your COVID risks – Today, COVID risks must be part of the discussion, especially when you have plans to see each other. It’s important to share your risk factors with a potential partner.

It’s also essential to share your COVID status because starting a relationship by not spreading the virus is the best move.

Set a date – It’s better to spend some time seeing each other and make some

moments together. It’s also an advantage to know your significant other well. But during this time, you should not forget the implemented safety protocols in place.

Know your boundaries – You should know your boundaries because it sets the basic guidelines of how you want to be treated. Setting boundaries can ensure that relationships can be mutually respectful and caring. More so, it will lead you to have a healthier relationship.

Cherish every moment – Don’t take it too fast. Being in the moment is to be released from the burden of worrying about the future and overanalyzing the past. Through appreciating each moment, both of you can have awareness and truly be in the present.

Let time put you in your destiny.

For us, as young adults, no one should tell when it’s the right time to be in love. If the heart is beating, and the butterflies in the stomach are flying, let it be. Life is short. Choose to be happy, believe slowly, love truly, and be with the one who makes you smile.

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What I Thought,

Is What I Will Be

BY LORILIE PEREZ

I

n just a second, in a blink of an eye, the world rotates the other way around. Of course, not literally. It was all over the news, printed on the front pages of every newspaper worldwide. It was a drastic change that led to a series of events. It’s COVID-19, and you probably already knew about it, anyway. It’s a really hard time when at some point in life, you just came up with an idea of wishing upon a shooting star, if there was, or praying to Him, to ask for this pandemic to disappear, like popping a bubble gone. But, there are always buts.

That’s not how the world operates.

Maybe this thought has already worn you out for hours, but I’m going to spill it anyway. Life is a timeline of obstacles. We have faced and will face a lot of problems. A lot of hindrances. But most of us mistook these obstacles as barriers like some wall thought to be a prevention of achieving our personal legends; our purposes on this planet.

Problems are there to toughen our hearts, mind, and even soul. We were presented as raw ingredients to be peeled, chopped, or boiled to suit the food you want to cook.

These problems are the equipment; molding us to fit the dish we’re served, preparing us to be the best

version of ourselves. problems with a courageous and Problems are there to be solved. positive mindset makes a difference.

You can whine, alright, but make sure it will not take forever. This PS. Try to be positive, but not of pandemic made us realize that time COVID-19, okay? is essential, indeed gold. Use the time we have to cope up with life.

Instead of thinking you aren’t enough, start your day by complimenting yourself. You’re a fighter. You will always be. You are loved, you matter (aside from the fact that you are made of atoms), and you are valued. A tough mindset makes a difference. Always. If you think you can do it, you eventually can achieve it. Like the law of attraction, what you think of will attract you.

You are not a magnet where opposites attract; you’re a person. You need to visualize good things to live up with good things.

Always remember, facing

Photo by Daniela Lomeda

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CURSOR Publication October 2020 - October 2021

S

herlock, Vikings, Breaking Bad, Game of Thrones, and Better Call Saul are some of the the best TV shows out there if you’re looking to commit to a TV show with a great and fulfilling storyline.

However, of course, you’re not always in the mood to watch these “heavy” TV shows.

If you’re looking for something light, like something to watch during study or work breaks, committing to watching a sitcom can help you reset your mind and focus, away from the stress and hard work that life brings.

Why watch sitcoms It’s like having a gang of friends. With most sitcoms and TV shows in general revolving around the life of a circle of people, watching a sitcom is like having new friends.

Personally, it’s like watching new friends grow and change throughout the years, and it’s like you’re really a part of the gang.

It’s light watching. While the best TV shows out there are heavily plot-driven, they can also be hard to

consume, as you have to pay attention to all details in the story. With sitcoms, the story isn’t that complicated, but it’s usually very enjoyable.

Fun. It’s not called a situation comedy for nothing. Generally, sitcoms make comedic plotlines of typical situations. When you find a sitcom that suits your taste, trust me, you’ll have a very hard time taking your eyes off the TV. If these reasons are good enough for you, read on for the best feel-good sitcoms to binge watch when you’re feeling down or when you want an easy laugh: #1. Friends If you’re a newbie to sitcoms, Friends is a good starter for you.

Since it was first broadcasted in 1994, David Crane and Marta Kauffman’s masterpiece has grown to be a fixture in popular culture, attracting even the

4 Best F and Timeles to Binge young audiences of this day due to its story.

Honestly, the show’s plot isn’t that marvelous when you look at it at first, but it’s the chemistry and skill of the main characters that really stole the show and made it a legendary and probably most famous sitcom ever. It also helps that the story is pretty easy to get, and most people can relate to the characters. #2. The Office Simply put, The Office is a comedic adaptation of a typical American paper company trying to keep it together with the help of its

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pop culture genius that severely lacks social skills. Also, look out for cute and funny moments featuring Dewey.

If you’re looking for a sitcom that can make you feel like a part of a of the plot, which revolves around a family and one that involves youthful quartet of genius geeks struggling humor, Malcolm In The Middle to fit into society. If you don’t like won’t disappoint. superheroes, comics, movies, or science, it can be tough to get the Honorable mentions

BY RED JOHNPAUL CRUZ These sitcoms didn’t quite make it to references and jokes in TBBT. However, even if you don’t, the list, but they are all very good: hard-working staff, whom the series it’s still easy to get the gist of the revolves around. Whether it’s Michael story, and Leonard, Raj, Howard, and i.Parks and Recreation Scott’s antics, Jim and Pam’s story, or especially Sheldon’s personalities are ii.Seinfeld Dwight’s quirkiness or weirdness that already enough to make you burst a iii.That 70s Show hooks you, when you get hooked by laugh or two. iv.Two and A Half Men The Office, there’s no stopping.

Sure, it may be tough to get #4. Malcolm In The Middle Sitcoms can provide a variety of through the first few episodes and While the first three sitcoms experiences. It can bring you up feel the vibe, but once you do, it’s one in this list revolve around adults, when you’re feeling down, make you of the best out there, and it never Malcolm In The Middle is all about laugh when you feel like laughing, really gets old. Friends may be easy to siblings Malcolm, Reese, and Dewey or make you feel like part of a get into, but personally, The Office is as they go through their childhood community. If you’re looking for a a much, much better sitcom. in a typical middle-class American timeless sitcom to binge-watch, these #3. The Big Bang Theory recommendations can provide you family trying to make ends meet.

The Big Bang Theory also If you’re looking for the with a good experience, as they did falls into the type of sitcoms that main twist, it’s that Malcolm is a when I watched them. aren’t easy to get into, and it’s because genius who isn’t your prototypical

Feel-Good ss Sitcoms e Watch

Photo by Harold Magana and Sean Maverick Del Fonso

20 LITERARY

CURSOR Publication October 2020 - October 2021

Scream

BY MORNING_STAR There’s no silent screams It only turns silent ‘cause of those barren ears

Illustration by Marie Angelica Christine Estuaria

Helpless Little Bird By aRacoon An energetic little bird born in comfort, Inside a steel cage where he can prosper, The bird chirped once, for food was short, Waiting for its keeper until he was fed and fostered, Seeing the falcons fly by, the bird grew scared, “I can never spread my wings like them” the bird said, The keeper opened the cage and let the wind blow, But the bird remained, and refused to flee, The next day, its keeper never returned, The bird chirped twice, but no words were spoken, Fetching his own worms, the bird never learned, As the moon rises, the bird laid down, but his eyes were open.

Illustration by Mary Gabrielle Pangan

LITERARY 21

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Hapag Kainan

BY JHASMINE JANE ESTACIO Kumakalansing mga kalderong walang laman, Pamilya ni Juan ay umaasa lamang sa ambon ni kapitan pagsapit ng tanghalian, nagsitakbuhan patungo sa bayan may libre daw kasi na panglaman- tiyan.

Maingay, nagkakagulo at ‘di magkamayaw, Magkabilaan ang mga paghiyaw Ang masa ay salat at uhaw ngunit biglang natahimik ang lahat ng dako, tanghalian pala’y bala at kamatayan ang siyang pangakong hindi kailanman mapapako.

Illustration by Marc David Magracia

The Morgue

BY THE KINGSLAYER On the hard, cold metal bed, he lies cold and hard Eyes shut and frozen, fingers turned icy and black I stare at the corpse full of pity, thinking of what might have been Had I not gotten the sickness, and went to the grave with all my dreams Burned to ash, I return to this Earth But my soul remains

Illustration by Johanna Camille Bernabe

Now I stay in this room, the morgue as they call it With other souls of the same fate And when you walk by the morgue, and you feel an icy, cold air graze your skin Desperately trying to remember how life feels

22 WEB & TECHNOLOGY CURSOR Publication October 2020 - October 2021

5 Things To K 1. THE TECHNICALITY Axie Infinity is a NFT-based game where players can breed, battle, raise, or trade creatures called Axies and collect Smooth Love Potions (SLPs) which they can convert into fiat currency.

Real money. This is where the play-to-earn facet of the game comes in.

Developed by Sky Mavis, a Vietnamese tech-focused game studio, in 2018, it uses Ethereum-based cryptocurrencies AXS and SLP. Between the two, it is SLP that gave Axie the fame it has today.

2. CRYPTOCURRENCY IS VOLATILE But how profitable is it in the long run? That’s probably the question that comes to mind of those who aren’t familiar with how the game and its play-to-earn mechanism works. Axie and all other similar games rely on cryptocurrency which in general is very volatile in value.

There is no central body that regulates it. Therefore, the price of AXS, SLP, and all other tokens can change drastically. A token could cost a thousand dollars today and drop to a few hundred the next day. There is no assurance that it is a good investment in the long run but right now, you can earn a decent amount by playing Axie Infinity that can even surpass daily wage.

For instance, SLP was around Php 0.36 in one of its lowest points but skyrocketed to around Php 17.59 at its peak where it became a trend.

BY SEAN MAVER

We play online games to enjoy, pas something has changed in how we s It is arguably every gamer’s dream t games. With the emergence of blockc this dream really did come true. It g earn games and at the forefront of th especially in

But before you start raising your e even thinking twice, here are five th revolutionary game that might help play-to-earn ga

3. THERE ARE MAN SE

Axie Infinity isn’t the only play-to-ea became the catalyst for this genre o of the value of SLP. And now that the five pesos as of this writing), many pla those looking for altern

Though some of these games are sti can earn is still good enou

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Know About

RICK DEL FONSO

ss the time, and have some fun but see online games in recent months. to earn while they play their favorite chain and non-fungible tokens (NFTs), gave rise to the concept of play-tohis gaming revolution is Axie Infinity our country.

eyebrows or go dive into it without hings you need to know about this p you consider this game and other ames out there.

NY FISHES IN THE EA

arn game in existence today. It just of gaming mainly because of the rise value of SLP has gone down (around ay-to-earn games became known for natives for Axie Infinity.

ill not as big as Axie, the amount you ugh for just playing games.

4. FILIPINOS THRIVE IN CHANGES AND TECHNOLOGY So what does this has to do with Axie Inifinity? First, the rise of play-to-earn games here in the country is proof that Filipinos can adapt to changes to fit their needs. Second, somehow, it also shows how Filipinos can easily adapt to changes in technology.

With strict lockdowns being implemented around the country, Filipinos who are stuck at home are forced to find alternative ways to earn money. Aside from the rise of online gaming in Southeast Asia, the pandemic also fueled the emergence of play-to-earn online games like Axie Infinity especially here in the Philippines.

Based on the numbers alone as of July 2021, 40% of Axie Infinity players come from the Philippines with Venezuela up next with a measly 6%.

5. EARNING MONEY MEANS PAYING TAXES Just because you are earning money through cryptocurrency, does not mean you are excused from paying taxes. There may be no strict regulations being imposed yet with regards to paying taxes from earning money but there will surely be at some point in the future.

This has been argued many times. Of course, most players will be against it but at the end of the day, it is our duty as citizens to pay our taxes regardless of it came from non-traditional platforms of earning.

Axie Infinity became the catalyst for this revolution in gaming.

Though it is early to tell if play-to-earn games will be here in the long run, it has definitely paved the way for new ideas and possible innovations in the gaming industry.

24 EDITORIAL

CURSOR Publication October 2020 - October 2021

ATBulSU 2021: An Eternity’s Wait Once high school students move up to senior high school, there’s a shift in their mentality; at least, it was the case for myself and my peers when we entered the first implementation of senior high school. You start to get more serious about your studies and start thinking more about the future, mainly, for college.

It takes a while and a lot of thinking to choose a program that suits your talents or one that offers the best career options down the line. Of course, choosing a good school is a key factor, too, as there are numerous factors to consider.

There’s the distance from home, reputation, availability of your preferred programs, and most importantly, especially for students in lower to middle class families, the expenses.

While there are many affordable private universities out there, and you can also get a scholarship to decrease the burden, even that may not be enough for many students, especially during a pandemic that has forced many companies to lay off workers.

Of course, even if it’s a pandemic, education will not stop. It’s an important aspect that keeps society functioning now and in the future.

Due to this and the economic effects of the pandemic that’s affecting Filipinos, many students are flocking to try their luck in getting qualified in state universities. For Bulakenyos, of course, the prime choice is Bulacan State University. It doesn’t

only offer free college education; BulSU is also highly-regarded as one of the top collegiate institutions in the country, regularly producing top-notch graduates that contribute to the betterment of society.

In the pandemic, B u l S U started t h e

admission for AY 20212022 online. As expected, many students were hopeful to be admitted into the university.

Last March 15, 2021, to May 22, 2021, the university started to accept ATBulSU applicants. All of it was done online, and while it had its fair share of problems, ATBulSU went on to finish smoothly. However, the horror came in the following

months.

One by one, many universities around the country started to release the list of qualified applicants for AY 2021-2022, and BulSU wasn’t one of them. With some applicants having several prospective universities where they tried to apply, some of them were included in the qualified students released by other universities, some

Illustration by Alfredo Zacarias

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public and some private.

However, since BulSU is a highly-regarded university that also offers free tuition, many students, especially those who belong to middle-class families, were left with a difficult choice: to enroll in another university that’s not their first choice or struggle to pay for their education, or play their luck and see if they will qualify in BulSU. In a way, those who had this choice were still a bit lucky.

However, it was a very

challenging situation for those with no choice; students so marginalized that their only hope of studying college and working for their dreams lies in getting accepted into Bulacan State University.

While it’s understandable that in the situation brought by the pandemic for BulSU to release the qualifiers late, it’s not understandable when other universities have already released theirs and their enrollment periods ongoing or already finished while aspiring BulSU students are left

EDITORIAL 25

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waiting on the ATBulSU results and without any updates on when the list of qualifiers will be released.

With all the effort and thinking that students sacrifice for their future, it’s both sad and absurd to think that some of the students will have their choices left down to when the university releases the list of qualifiers.

How many students played it safe and went to private colleges and are now struggling to pay for their education in this financiallychallenging time? How many qualified for BulSU because it’s their dream school but decided to play it safe and go to another university?

How many students tried their luck, only to be disappointed that they weren’t qualified for the university?

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How many of them found a way to study college, and how many stopped their studies altogether?

These are some of the difficult questions that have arisen due to the university’s failure to release the ATBulSU results at an appropriate time.

For a university that claims to leave no one behind, they certainly left many aspiring students waiting.

Many students had to get off the boat themselves in fear of getting pushed off it. If the university truly wants to leave no student behind, one of the things they need to prioritize is not to delay the release of the list of qualifiers and not to only release them less than two months before the first day of classes.

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CURSOR Publication October 2020 - October 2021

CICT Athletes During The Pandemic JONATHAN PIZARRA & RED JOHNPAUL CRUZ

The Intramurals is the university event that is surely missed by BulSU students, especially for student athletes. We used to watch them fight for our college on every event possible and be proud and cheer for them when they get a point or two.

The last intramurals were held from October to November 2019 with the College of Information and Communications Technology (CICT) Firefox finished fifth overall with 14 gold, 11 silver, and 26 bronze medals powered by medal hauls from taekwondo, swimming, chess, and athletics.

After an academic year under this pandemic, let’s catch up to some of our CICT

athletes that gave us medals

and reminisce about those podium finish moments that made us proud of our college.

Ronnie Martin was part of the men’s chess team that bagged back-to-back gold medals in the 2018 and 2019 Intramurals.

“Namimiss ko yung mga ka teammates ko sakaka ‘yung feeling ng nanalo at natatalo sa intrams.

Nakakapanghinayang lang talaga dahil pandemic mukhang hindi ko na ulit mararanasan yun. Lalo’t may bagong pasok na variant ng covid mukhang hindi na naman matutuloy ang face to face class,” Martin shared.

Kenneth Delos Santos, gold medalist in taekwondo, shared the same sentiment.

“Namiss ko yung mga laban sa Valencia ‘tas nandun lahat yung mga nangangarap maging part ng taekwondo varsity team,” said Delos Santos on what he misses during intramurals.

Our athletes continue to keep their skills in shape and share the importance of keeping in shape during this pandemic as they keep in touch with their coaches.

Marry Alliah Bernabe, part of the swimming quartet that bagged two silvers in swimming together with Niña Paola Dela Cruz, Irix Romero, and Bea Grace Centeno, shared her training routine during the lockdown. “ I discipline myself to do sit ups and some cardio activities pero konting time na l a n g

CICT Athlete During the Pandemic. The CICT Chess team poses for a photo while holding their certificates. | Photo by Klein Mariano

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nagagawa dahil nahahati yung oras sa gawaing bahay,” Bernabe said.

“Pangangailangan ‘yun ng mga atleta na magkaroon ng training.

Sabi nga ni coach ‘mag-train para hindi kalawangin’. As of now tuwing weekend na lang o kaya kapag walang ginagawang school activities,” Martin added.

“Kung i-cocompare mo siya mas masaya tas maayos kang makapag training di tulad ngayon na limited kasi nasa bahay ka ‘tas minus pa pag wala kang place,” Delos Santos shared.

As with all other students, they

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also faced struggles in these online classes.

“Mahirap makasunod sa mga lessons lalo na’t hindi kaya ng laptop yung mga kailangang gamitin na coding apps kahit noong nagsisimula pa lamang ang online class,” Bernabe said.

They are optimistic about the current setup and still try to give their best on their academic responsibilities.

“Okay naman nakakaraos din at yung pinagdadaanan dahil nga sa bahay lang di maiwasan yung nagkakaklase ka tas di ka makapag

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focus dahil maingay sa bahay,” Delos Santos shared.

“Sa ngayon mabuti naman, yung mga struggles na naranasan ko ngayon is yung nahihirapan ako maka-sabayan sa klase dahil nangangapa pa rin ako dahil online class na, may mga times din na hindi stable yung internet connection kaya minsan nagkakaproblema,” Martin said.

This pandemic has changed the academic landscape, and we should not forget our athletes and the pride and glory they gave to our college and university.

Team Supremacy reigns supreme in ML SWITS League JONATHAN PIZARRA & ELISHA JOY CASTRO

In the finale of Mobile Legends SWITS League, Team Supremacy showcased their mastery of the game by outclassing Team Samgyupsal PH in a sweep of their best-of-three final series last June 8, 2021.

16 teams battled it out in an elimination format divided into two brackets. After defeating the teams Zeuskolord, Big Black Chicken, and BSIT-1H in the preliminary rounds, the team of Allen Villanueva, Rezlei Reyes, Vernard Valcoz, Joel Leonor, and Charles Taruc marched into the finals of the Mobile Legends SWITS League.

They faced a gritty Team Samgyupsal PH from the other side of the bracket in a best-of-three series and took home the championship title

by sweeping the opposing team in two games.

They finished Game 1 in just around 11 minutes by wiping out Samgyupsal PH after Leonor’s Kufra set on the

bottom lane. They got 14 kills while allowing only 1 kill for Samgyupsal PH. In Game 2, Supremacy showed its dominance once again in just 13 minutes. After taking the enhanced lord

Supremacy reigns supreme in ML SWITS League. The promotional poster of the Mobile Legends SWITS League featuring the two finalists: Supremacy and Samgyupsal PH. | Photo from SWITS

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at the twelfth-minute mark, they didn’t waste any opportunity and finished the series with a 21-3 win to take home the championship.

“So finals, Ito ‘yung goal namin simula pa nung una. Makapaglaro, makapag compete sa championship

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match. Ang advantage siguro namin sa ibang grupo is ‘yung tournament experience namin,” said Valcoz, team captain of Supremacy, before competing in the finals.

Charles Taruc was named as the Finals MVP with a KDA of 18-2-10

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using his main heroes Yi Sun Shin in Game 1 and Ling in Game 2.

Team Samgyupsal PH settled for second place after winning against teams GenZ, Senpai Na Loyal, and Team Solid in the preliminaries.

Team Faceless displayed Radiant-like plays in SWITS Valorant Finals JHASMINE JANE ESTACIO

Team Faceless defeated Team Boostedbois in the SWITS Valorant Challengers Finals last June 8, 2021. As part of the 10th IT Congress, Team Faceless showcased their valor amongst 15 other teams and showed that they excel not just in academics but also in the field of gaming.

In the eliminations, they first faced Team Pewpewbrrbrrt, then Kobi Supremacy. In the semifinals, they faced Teamba Esports before marching into the finals against Boostedbois. Faceless is composed

of Calvin, Own Little World, Onlyknife, Venzee, and Earnzyy.

Faceless took Game 1 in dominant fashion with a total score of 13-4, after Boostedbois was still playing well early, being down only by a point after the 7th round,3-4, and only down by one on as Guren from Boostedbois managed to plant the spike but failed to clutch the round. From then, Faceless showed their valor by winning nine straight rounds, including the match point to put their opponents away with a spike diffuse by OnlyKnife from Team Faceless playing as Killjoy at match point, wrapping Game 1.

Team Faceless displayed Radiant-like plays in SWITS Valorant Finals The promotional poster of the SWITS Valorant Challengers tournament featurin the finalists: Faceless and BoostedBois. | Photo from SWITS

Game 2 was a different story as Boostedbois fought toe to toe in its attempt to force Game 3 and didn’t allow Faceless to dominate the game. They even tied the match at 4-4 and were able to catch up midgame but it was evident that Faceless was the more experienced team and took the win with Calvin, playing as Omen for Faceless, dominated the match point with a 3 man kill off BoostedBois with Guren playing as Killjoy for Boostedbois, failing to clutch again as he got knifed

by Earnzyy, playing as Sage for Faceless, as a finisher sealing the game with 13-7.

“I think the ability to be versatile in this game is the key para manalo kami,” said Kurt Allen Santos, Faceless team captain, prior to the finals.

OnlyKnife led Faceless in Game 1 with 17-12-4 KDA as well as Own Little World at Game 2 with a 2211-6 KDA. Venzee was hailed as MVP with a total KDA of 117-6728 all throughout the competition.

On the other hand, AchiTzy led Boostedbois with 12-13-5 KDA in Game 1 and 14-16-6 in Game 2.