Echoes August 2013

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 1

2 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

44

02 03 26

PREVIOUS ISSUE EDITORIAL Fading Out

04 10 40

Lerizze Tan

28

Boy Abunda as the President

Her Majesty

58

I Used to Be A Jeje Sam Gonzales

Eric Sto. Domingo Martin Consing

The Python Micaela Que

If Ecosoc Was the Philippines

76

68

Here Comes the Musik

82

The Insecurites of a Morena

86 88

The Ecosoc Guy's Ensemble

Girlie's Girl Tips

Ecosoc Politikos Luigi Montalbo

Timmy Jacob

Carmel Baquilod Luigi Montalbo

Ultimate Harana Mixtape 2k13

Girlie

Bakit Ang Hirap Mag-Tagalog?

CONTRIBUTORS

CULTURE

Zo Canaria

Olivia Solomon

70

FEATURES

Carmel Baquilod

Jude Geron

Frances Quezon

37

NEWS

24 72

Tong

Eric Sto. Domingo

32

COMMITTEE NEWS

Zo Canaria Maurice Tong

Kristina Viray Joshua Siat ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 1

Previous Issue

Editors FEDERICO GERARD PARREÑAS Editor-in-Chief LERIZZE ANGELA TAN Associate Editor

TIMOTHY JACOB Managing Editor

JO BEATRIZ GUERRERO News Editor

MARGARITA “SAM” GONZALES Features Editor

OLIVIA SOLOMON Culture Editor

JUDE BENEDICT GERON Creatives Editor

RAMON JOSE “VITO” CASTAÑEDA Webmaster

CARA GABRIELLE LATINAZO Photos Editor

FRANCES CAMILLE QUEZON Digital Content Editor

ARTHEL “MARTE” CAROÑONGAN Echoes TV Producer

JOAQUIN FERRER Logistics Director

JUSTINE VICTORIA NUQUE Echoes TV Director

Staff LISANNE GABORNI

ALFONSO ROCES

BRYAN DOMINGO

MICAELA QUE

MARTIN CONSING

ERIC STO. DOMINGO

VICO UBALDO

Errata

Our mistakes in the July issue Grammatical errors and incompleted captions, corrected in the online edition of the July issue.

Echoes is the official publication of the UP Economics Society (UP Ecosoc), a non-stock, non-profit, student organization based in the University of the Philippines Diliman School of Economics.

Since the 2nd semester of the academic year 2012-2013, Echoes is released four times in a sem and eight times in a year, on the months of February, March, April, June, July, August, September, October, and December.

It draws its funding from a subsidy from UP Ecosoc, sponsorships, subscription revenue, and other small funraisers. For this semester, 20 subscription copies, 10 tambayan copies, 1 archive copy, and a complimentary copy for each of our sponsors, featured members, and featured alumni are produced.

This publication is printed by Yza Copy Systems and Trading, located at Stall 22 at the Shopping Center, UP Diliman, Quezon City. contact us

upecosoc@gmail.com upecosoc.echoes@gmail.com visit for more information

All errors are corrected when posted on issuu.com/echoes. If you spot any errors, do not hesitate to tell us by emailing us at upecosoc.echoes@gmail.com 2 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

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No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission.

FROM THE EDITOR EVERY GENMEET, WHEN TASK FORCE TAKES THE MIC, the crowd cheers. You can hear "ESSF" in the background sometimes. But when you compare it to its colleague in special committees, Ecosoc Month gains so much more traction. When Ecosoc Month takes the microphone, the entire room rumbles with noise. Yet when Task Force speaks, the committee that embodies the whole raison d'etre of the society, the screams are limited to a few. How can it be that a committee behind an event described by former VicePresident Hannah Alipio—told to me moments before Musikapella 2012 was about to come to a close—as "the event that personifies Ecosoc in all its three thrusts, altogether." Indeed, she has said that she believes that each Ecosocer should experience the event first-hand to know how it actually feels. The question is, why doesn't it get the same amount of public support that EM garners? No, I am not going to say that the society is veering away from its "sociocivic" nature. Nothing of that sort now, since so many people in the society apparently love CDC, according to brand audits, a couple of surveys, Twitter posts, and, of course, that Facebook thread of despair when XP announced that the CDC the next day would be cancelled. Let's not dwell on the true mindset underneath it all, if it is—according to some in Timmy's article from the June issue of Echoes—a façade.

Let's look at it through a different perspective: inclusivity. Ecosoc Month, apart from the committee it's comprised of, includes a number of other home committees in the U.P. Economics Society because of its month-long scale. Everybody may like to party (not true) but it's not the only thing that's holding Ecosoc Month together.

There are events that are organized by different committees, with the aid of the Ecosoc Month committee. Thus, their memPHOTOS FROM JUDE GERON AND ROMY ARE

bers feel a true affinity with the anniversary celebrations occurring in September. It is, after all, unifying when efforts go to a collective goal.

This is where Task Force differs. Task Force's event this semester, Musikapella, is no doubt an external event and unlike Foodgasm where members can find ways to amuse themselves during the event itself and it caters to everyone with tastebuds, Musikapella doesn't offer much for non-organizing staff. That is, by any means, not a jab at the event, for the event truly is one of a kind, one you would never expect was solely organized by college students and one that rakes in so much funds.

It may not be in the event for this semester, to become inclusive. However, if the next Vice President would find a way to make it inclusive, and score high attendance from the membership amidst upcoming exams, for the rest of the society, it could erase the feeling of disconnection with the ESSF. There are other alternatives though. The second semester Task Force event that was never realized during the Rager semester, Para kay Paraluman, holds that inclusive potential.

Aside from the event actually having entertainment that caters to the society, if we follow a format similar to, say, Coachella, where there would be different days or time schedules, each committee could sponsor an a certain time period, through them getting the performers and art showcased for that alloted time slot. It sounds difficult, but if our organization can organize the Rundown, Foodgasm, NYC, NES, the anniversary parties, and most especially Musikapella, what else can it achieve when its members are driven towards a specific outcome?

That is just an example. The main point of this is a call for inclusivity. A renewal of emotional investment in the ESSF. ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 3

COMMITTEE ECHOES NEWS

Akala nyong lahat na hindi ako marunong magsalita ng ating wika. Ding-ding, bewang, batok… ito ay mga salitang na hindi ko alam nung naguumpisa ako dito sa UP. Pero ngayon, gagamitin ko ang aking Commnews para magsulat ng kumpleto at walang mali na Filipino. Ngayon, ito ang sasabihan ko sa inyo:

Noynoy

Habang binabasa mo ito, mayroong tayong isa pang buwan bago matapos ang ating ‘term’. Alam ko na ang nakararami sa atin ay dumadaan sa hirap sa panahong ito, ngunit hinihingi ko lang sa inyo na tuloy niyong ipaglaban ang tama. Mukhang imposible, pero kapag binigay mo ang pinakamagaling mong magagawa, at kung lumingon ka sa nakaraan, maiisip mo na magaling pala talaga ang maging Ecosocer.

Kung alam lang ninyo kung gaano akong nahirapan isulat ang Commnews na ito, sana ito ay magsilbing inspirasyon sa inyo. Kung ikaw lang ay magsisikap na magaral ng mabuti para makuha mo ang nais mong grado, Commnews mo ito.

Kung nagkukulang ka na ng tulog sa mga ginagawa mo sa organisasyon, Commnews mo ito. Kung uunahin mo ang kapakanan ng iba kaysa sa iyo, Commnews mo ito. Sana kayo ay magtagumpay sa lahat ng balak niyong gawin! Mabuhay ang UP Ecosoc!

GJ|Ecosoc Month

Mwah Mwah, Hugs Hugs, GJ "Abs" Agregado Malugod na pagbati sa inyong lahat, mga kasapi ng Ecosoc!

Manuel L. Quezon

Agosto na naman at tayo’y nangalahati na ng ating semestre – isang semestreng punong-puno ng mga pangyayaring na talaga naming hindi kalimot-limot. Kakatapos lamang ng Treasure Hunt at Vice Night at gusto ko lang batiin ang LAB!!!!!! Di man tayo nanalo, kul na kul pa rin tayo!

Agosto na naman at ibig sabihin nito’y bilang na bilang na ang araw bago sumabog ang kagalingan ng Ecosoc. Nariyan ang ating pagdiriwang ng ating buwan at ang ating ika-55 na anibersaryo! Talaga namang sabik na sabik na ako sa lahat ng hawak ng Setyembre para sa atin!

At sa katapusan naman ng buwang iyon ay gaganapin na muli ang Musikapella 2013, ang pang-walo sa kasaysayan ng Ecosoc. Maraming salamat sa lahat ng tumatangkilik ng Pintas, ng Selpicao (at honey garlic chicken hehe), at siyempre sa lahat ng pakulo ng Musikapella at Task Force!

Para sa aking kanang kamay, Chello, ako’y nagbibigay-pugay!

Isa kang diyosa! Ikaw ay biyaya ng langit talaga. Taos puso akong nagpapasalamat sa aking mga direktor, ang aking mga walang-pagod na kaagapay sa pagbuo nitong palabas. Gelo, Dea, Brian, Botan, Patty, Miguel, Shanica, at Ramm – tunay ngang bilib ako sa inyo. ILANG LINGGO NA LANG!! Pasensya na’t nararamdaman kong sawang-sawa na kayo sa mukha ko at sa kaka-text ko sa inyo ng dis-oras ng gabi o umaga. Tandaan niyo na lang na palagi natin itong ginagawa para sa kinabukasan ng ating mga iskolar. Ang mga posisyon niyo ay hindi basta-basta lamang, kayo ay nariyan dahil kayo ay may kakayanang makatulong nang malaki sa inyong kapwa. Para sa inyo rin, mga miyembro ng Task Force, sana’y palagi ninyong alalahanin ito. Tiwala ako sa bawat isa sa inyo na gagawin natin ang Musikapellang ito bilang ang pinakamahusay na Musikapella.

BB|Task Force

At para sa V5, huling dalawang buwan nating magkakasama-sama! Isang karangalan ang makatrabaho kayo, at maging kaibigan. Mahal ko kayo!

Lagi-lagi, BB <3 4 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

COMMNEWS

To ECOSOC: Appholster just ended and now we have a cleaner tambayan. A new layout as well, thanks to the apps.

I hope you appreciate them cleaning it and continue to take care of it. It’s ECOSOC’s Tambayan and we should take care of it! Plus I want a SESC free Pizza PARTY!!

To Seccom: Another Job well done guys!! The Foodgasm poster and Video that we worked hard on is now up! It is because of all your critiques and inputs That is why they look beautiful!

To Riel, Thank you for always being present to guide the seccom apps, They truly have bonded with seccom because of you. To Nepo, your energy when it comes to competition has contributed to making our committee more enjoyable and fun. To Vico and Ria, Thank you for giving as much time as you can knowing that you guys have really busy schedules. To Ana and Sam, I really appreciate that you guys are always there when there are shoots and creative inputs are needed. Paubau and Himmy, I really miss you guys! I know how busy you guys are, but I am sure that your comments in our group will be really helpful! To my apps, Ina, Tetet, Yen, Jessica, Alysson, Anton, Audrey, Genebe and Dale, I AM SO PROUD OF ALL OF YOU! You act like real mems! ;) Keep up your eagerness to learn and I am sure you guys will be the best seccom committee real soon[maybe by next sem ;) ] Seccom, each and every one of you continue to contribute to the success of this committee. From painting the gallery to assisting in shoots, I am really happy to know that I can depend on you. It has made my work A LOT LESS stressful. >:D< To my Interns, Ronald, Peaches, Kristian, JP, Angel and Jemimah Thank you for being very eager beavers! I really love your enthusiasm to learn. Keep it UP! I promise that you guys will learn something by the end of your internship.

Jose P. Laurel

ARS|Secretariat

Just like the rain that’s pounding on the pavement outside, Fin is gearing up and going into full force to bring you the best stuff for the last 2 months of the semester.

Have you seen the latest product of The 1958 yet? If you haven’t, then you know what to do as we bring back the classic skater skirts (same flattering colors, lower price) and also introduce the new “IT” skirts: The Origami Skorts.

Available in red, black and white and customizable to fit your size, there’s no limit to the outfits you can build with them. Also, you know what Wednesday lunches mean and you know where to find us so why line up for 30 minutes in the cafeteria? And let’s not forget the best food event that will ever grace your life: FOODGASM: Triple The Flavor this August 31 at Mercato Centrale. Taste and judge 30 of the best up and coming food businesses while catching musical performances and winning awesome prizes along the way!!! (we’d like to thank you for supporting our pub so much and get ready for some event more fab promos) All these things could not have been possible without my FRIKKIN A M A Z I N G FINANCE TEAM. Honestly, this is probably the best team I’ve had the pleasure to work with. Each of you are individually great in your own way and have contributed to making this semester the best version it could be. To the Small Scale team thank you for never limiting your visions to the scale of your name. You guys are gonna be the country’s next big entrepreneurs, I can feel it. To the Large Scale team, you have been nothing short of awesome. Sometimes when we have our GAs, I just look at you guys interacting and can’t help but feel proud at how much you’ve bonded and grown. It’s what keeps me going on the nights that I look at the clock and it’s 1 am and I still have to check x no. of proposals. Let’s deliver the best frikkin event like ever (and get thousands of fabulous money in the process). To my VC’s Mil-K, Angela “intense publicity” Mantes and Patman, thank you for bearing with me HAHAHAHA. I know I push you guys a lot but honestly it’s because I see so much potential in you and I know you can handle it. I’m proud of us fierce four.

V5, okay I’ll hold off on the feelings for now but know that this has been the best experience because you were the people I was blessed to work with. August, September, Cebu.

Erap Estrada

GELI|Finance

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 5

COMMITTEE ECHOES NEWS

Mabuhay Ecosoc!

Imelda Marcos

Ilang linggo na lang at Setyembre na! Kailangan naming ng inyong supporta sa lahat ng mga gawain. Maglalabas na rin kami ng mga teasers para sa National Economics Summit kaya huwag na kayong magtaka kung ang news feed niyo ay mapupuno ng EcoSoc Month pub materials dahil bawat gabi ay magiging EcoSoc Pubnight. HIHIHI Isama din sa inyong mga dasal na sana ay makamit natin ang mga gantimpala sa TAYO, Coke Barkadahan Challenge and SMART PAYITFWD Challenge. #ExcellentEcoSoc Para sa minamahal kong Externals, 3 linggo na lang NES na! Kaya! Sa VCs kong umaapaw ang pagka-fierce, Flora and Ines, salamat at hindi niyo pa ako iniiwan sa lahat ng stress na pinagdadaanan natin. Ang pagpili sa inyo ang pinakatamang ginawa ko sa sem na â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;to. Porn, Kat, Ramm and Cyril, salamat sa pagiging masipag na directors ng NES. Konting push pa!

Sa apps kong sina Apa, Bianca, Mio, Daryl, Kristian, Annika, Chesca and Sel, salamat sa pagiging masipag.

Nararamdaman ko na ang 100% passing rate ninyo.

Sa sobrang competitive naming partner Sports, congratulations! GRANDTRAD NAMAN! Chichi, alam kong miss niyo na ako. Huhu! Huwag mag-alala dahil malapit na tayong mag-unli YOLO! V5, it is so near yet so far! Enjoy na lang natin ang natitirang dalawang buwan!

EcoSoc, congratulations, hindi pa lumalabas si Madame Q! Sanaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;y hindi na siya lumbas hanggang October. HIHIHI. Marami pang mangyayari pero kapit lang! Kaya natin to!

QUEK|External Affairs

Nagmamahal, Quek Malugod na pagbati mula sa Katipunan!

Ngayon ay ang Buwan ng Wika. Bilang tagapangulo ng lupong pang-akademiko, natutuwa ako na nagkaroon ako at ang aking kapwa mga tagapangulo na gamitin ang ating pambansang wika. Hindi ba nakakatuwa? Maayon na kahit hindi natin siya araw-araw magagamit, ay hindi natin ito kakalimutan.

Bilang panimula, gusto ko lang sabihin na ang buwan ng Agosto ay ang buwan ng isa sa aking pinakapaboritong pangyayari: ang PPK o ang Pambansang Pagtitipon ng Kabataan. Ito marahil ay mas kilala bilang National Youth Congress. Halos limang buwang makalipas na rin bago namin ito unang pinagplanuhan, sa wakas ay makikita na rin nating lahat ang kalalabasan ng paghihirap ng lagpas 70 taong nag-oorganisa nito. Ito ay isang bagay na sana'y maipagyayabang natin bilang isang organisasyon. Gusto ko lang sabihin na natutuwa ako sa lahat ng tumutulong sa amin sa PPK. Kilala ko kayong lahat.

Andres Bonifacio na nakasakay sa Jomac

NEIL|Academic Affairs

Pangalawa, para sa aking lupong pang-akademiko: dalawang buwan na lang hanggang matapos ang semestre. Ituloy-tuloy natin ang ating mga serbisyo para sa mga miyembro. Kaya natin ito! Para sa mga aplikanteng sa ilalim ko, konting tiyaga na lang! Galingan niyo sa pagprepara para sa Paligsahang Jologs!

Pangatlo, para sa V5: malapit na matapos ang ating termino. Sana'y patuloy parin tayong sumuporta sa isa't isa. Huling dalawang buwan na lang!

Huwag sana tayong magsawa sa isa't isa.

Nagmamahal sa inyong lahat, Neil Adrian Ong 6 â&#x20AC;˘ AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

COMMNEWS

Emilio Aguinaldo in the 70s

#KathNielTeenRoyalty #Got2Believe WeWeW. Sup Ecosocerz! XPogZ in da haus. 1 month nalangz yung term namin so lolers mamimiss ko kayong lahat WEW. Pliz continue to support CDC for layf kei.

Anyare sa September 7?!?!?!?! ECO-BRICK PROJECT CULMINATING ACTIVITIE!!!!! Guys, please bring ur nonbio trash and 1.5L pet bottles to da tambz tas lagay niyo lang sa momol room then luv lots na from CDC gets. More trash, more eco-bricks, more chances of building the library! So far, kei naman yung supply so kpop the gud work kei. ~(^__^)~

To CDC my love, luv u all 11ever. Animaxx, babe active magbenta lovette. Borlongz, go venue venuez venue!

Carlzz, Grand Trad next year pls. Cha, hi Cha hi Cha hehe.

Chiliii, spiceh labuyow haha labo. Cuppycakes, we mis u pakita ka mor. Gino, ganda mo 720 pls. Gzel, 4evr reliable baby luv u huhu. Janina, t-sis. Janine, daming collegez daming dorm dorm tour. Jem, fashown egzpert ka pala di mo sinasabi. Jenina, lemonade ladeh we miz u din. Jejemae, hi gurly we miz u! Jessbowdz, we miz u 3! Mesa, escort prepare gwaps face. Klarissa, ughh loljk. Klaud, benta pa tau benta niyo me. Kyanne, K – ANNE haha labo more. Lara, bzt ENTM mowdel. Luigi, cdc mazcot huhuuu. Maan, MEDMISH gahleng <3. Mariel, 5820e9 partner orgz!!!

MarkBue, pakidelete lahat ng cdc counts thx. MikeBue, defer pls huhu jowk. Alpss, lezz go to engg huhu love yu. Ria Tan, shggiysdb (chines word). Rich, cdc wid paws cdc wid porn. Shelly, basurerz. Shiela, defer pls. Tans, accounting!!! tanya @18. Tong, more tarps pls. Trysh, plastic shredder bring to Econ hehezz.

XP|Community Development To V5 my oder love, konti nalang!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! miss ko kau To future Execom, GPOA na pls.

Hindi talaga ako magaling magsulat sa pambansang wika. Kahit kinuha ko ang kursong Malikhaing Pagsusulat 10, halos lahat naman ng binigay ko dun ay bola na gumagamit ng stilo at hindi grammatika. Kaya pagbigyan kung hindi magaling ang balitang pang-lupon na to. Grabe, namatay na ang utak ko dun.

Ecosoc, salamat po sa inyong pagsubaybay at pagtatangkilik sa It Might Be You at sa aming huling edisyon noong Hulyo. Ngayon, ang aming tema para sa buwan ng wika ay, siyempre, ang Modernong Pilipino.

May dalawa pa kaming ibabahagi sa inyong lahat, at may isa pa kaming proyekto na mangyayari sa pinakadulo ng semestre.

Aking mga applikante, Martin, Mix, Poncho, at Eric, kalahati na ng iyong unang semestre sa Ecosoc. Ninais ko na mahal niyo na rin ang Ecosoc at nakikita niyo kung bakit nakayakap kaming lahat sa kanyang kamay. Pakitaan niyo silang lahat ng husay ninyo.

Wax, Marte, Jus, Frances, Vito, Cara, Jude, Olivia, Sam, Joby, Timmy, at Lerizze—Echoes, hindi ko na kayo iisa't-isahin sapagkat yun lang yung laging nangyayari.

Kahit may pagkakamakasarili tayong lahat kasi naniniwala tayo sa indibidwalismo, igalang natin ang konsepto ng pakikisama. Alam niyo naman rin na mahal ko kayong lahat. Kung wala kayo, ano kaya ang buhay ko ngayon? Siguro mahahanap niyo lang ako sa kung saang tabi at tumatambay sa kanto. Subalit, ako'y nangangailangang laging bumalik sa inyo dahil kayo ang aking pamilya sa Ecosoc. Nasa Echoes ang kasangkapan upang makagawa ng kabutihan na tatagal ng ilang panahon; ito ang dahilan kung bakit nagsasayang tayo ng iilang oras at gabi.

Siya ang paraluman natin sa buhay. Ako, kayo—tayo—si paraluman. Kung wala ang kahit isa sa inyo, hindi tayo mabubuo. Nasa inyong lahat ang kakayahan upang isagawa ang kahanga-hangang bagay; nakikita ko ito. Ngunit, kung magpapahatak tayo sa mga katangian na di kanaisnais na nahahanap sa mga Pilipino, katulad ng katamaran, ningas-cogon, at kung ano pa, hindi natin maaabot ang ating mga hangganan. At nakita ko ito, at siya'y maganda.

V5, palapit nang palapit na ang katapusan ng lahat. Pagkatapos nito, pahinga ang ating gantimpala.

Dapat Ninoy, pero naging Jose Rizal

DEREK|Echoes

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 7

COMMITTEE ECHOES NEWS

ECOSOC! Nawa’y nasa mabuting kalagayan ang lahat sa kabila ng Cory Aquino hindi mapagsangayong panahon. Wala naman sanang lubos na naalintana ng baha o aksidenteng dulot ng labis na pagulan.

Gayunpaman nais kong ipaabot ang aking pasasalamat at galak na nadama nitong mga nakaraang panahon: Sa lahat ng mga dumalo sa The Apprentice: Econ Edition, LUBOS ANG AKING PASASALAMAT SA INYO <3 Ang katagumpayan ng proyektong iyon ay dahil na rin sa inyong suporta. Sana’y may naiwang aral sa inyo ang inyong pagpunta.

Telle at Erwin, gayun na rin sa mga miyembro ng grupong Alumni Relations at Logistics, ang tagumpay ay sa inyo!

Ipinagbubunyag ko ang pribilehiyong ibinigay ninyo sa akin, ang pribilehiyong makatrabaho at makilala kayo ng lubusan.

Di rin naman dapat isantabi ang Corporate Relations, kay Eina at sa lahat ng miyembro ng Corp Rel lalo na ang mga Liai apps, walang kapantay ang inyong dedikasyon sa pagkuha ng mga sponsors. Hinigitan ninyo ng labis labis ang aking eskpektasyon. Salamat sa patuloy na pagpupursigi.

Sa GT team ng Liaison na pinangungunahan nina Sel at Briana, salamat sa inyong patuloy na pagsisikap! Nasa inyo ang aking tiwala. Alam kong sa inyong mga kamay, atin muling maatim ang korona :> Kalagitnaan (o higit pa) na ng semestre! Sandaling panahon na lamang ay magtatapos na naman ang yugtong kamakailan lang nating sinimulan.

Makakahinga na muli tayo sa mga proyekto at mga pagsusulit akademiko. Ngunit bago pa nga lubusang humayo ang mga natitirang sandali ng unang semestre, nais kong ihain ang katanungang ito: Bawat isa sa atin, ang atin bang kasalukuyang kinalalagyan ay sumasangayon sa ating mga inambisyon o ipinangakong tutuparin nang magbukas ang semestre? Tayo nga ba ay mas nagsusumikap maging mabuti o mas tutok sa pag-aaral gaya ng ating sinabing tutupdin?

Patuloy na nagmamahal, Jing <3

JING|Liaison

Kamusta Ecosoc?

Diosdado Macapagal

Nakalipas na naman ang isang buwan at mabilis nang dumarating ang katapusan ng semestreng ito. Napakarami nang nangyari ngunit ‘di pa nagsisimula ang buwan ng Setyembre, ang buwan na ating pinakahihintay bawat taon.

Hindi na ako makahintay sa lahat ng mga mangyayari sa buwan na ‘to, at sigurado akong ang buwan na ito ay ‘di natin makalilimutan kailanman.

Kamusta V5? ‘Di ko mapigilang maisip na malapit na matapos ang ating mga termino, at sa katotohanan nga ay ‘di na ako makahintay. Palagay ko ay sapat na ang isang taon nating pagsisilbi sa organisasyong ito, at oras nang mapalitan tayo ng mga makabagong lider na magtutuloy ng mabuting reputasyon ng Ecosoc. Ngunit ‘di ko rin mapigilan na malungkot sapagkat ngayon pa lang ay namimiss ko na ang mga meeting natin at ang kasabawan nating lahat. Gamitin natin nang mabuti ang nahuhuling buwan upang punan ang natitira pang patlang sa ating pagitan, at gumawa na tayo ng mga alaalang siguradong babalikan natin pagkatapos natin dito.

Kamusta Memcom? Nais ko lang sabihin na tuwang-tuwa ako sa lahat ng nagawa natin ngayong semstreng ito. Paulit-ulit ko nang sinasabi ito pero nais kong malaman niyo na kayo ang rason kung bakit matagumpay tayo ngayon. Maraming salamat sa pagsisilbi niyo, at galingan pa natin lalo sa susunod na buwan. Mag-iwan tayo ng isang napakagandang alaala sa Ecosoc sa pamamagitan n gating Grand Tradition.

Kamusta Apps? Alam kong ‘di pa tayo nakakapagbonding talaga, ngunit nais kong malaman niyo na ‘di na akong makahintay na makita kayong lahat sa dulo ng semestreng ito at opisyal na isali kayo sa organisasyong ito. Habang wala pa ang panahong iyon, nais kong makilala ang bawat isa sa inyo at nais kong umabot sa panahon na hindi apps ang tawag ko sa inyo kundi mga kaibigan. Good luck sa inyong lahat! Konti na lang ata malapit na kayo matapos sa proseso ng inyong aplikasyon, wag niyo sayangin ang natitirang panahon.

ANON|Membership

Maraming salamat Echoes sa pagbibigay ng oportunidad na lumabas ang pagiging makata ko. Mabuhay kayo! (Nota ng Patnugot: Walang anuman!)

8 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

COMMNEWS

HELLO, MABUHAY MAGAGANDANG NILALANG NG ECOSOC! Sana naman ay naging masaya ang nakalipas na buwan sa inyo, kahit na ito ang kabuwanan ng kabwisitan dahil sa midterms!

Unang-una nais kong magpasalamat lahat ng pumunta, naglaro, at nakisaya sa pinaka-inaabangang Treasure Hunt at Vice Night! Alam ko naman na maraming napagod, lalong lalo na sa huling parte ng Treasure Hunt! Nais ko lang humingi ng paumanhin sa mga babaeng nahawakan sa dede, at sa mga lalaking nahawakan sa … ehem. Kelangan ko lang mag sabi ng mga MVP ng parteng iyon. Ang pinaka panalo para sa mga babae: NIKKI BONDAD dahil ikaw ay isang ultra wet girl. At para sa mga lalaki, si JR YAMBAO dahil naka ikot ka ng 5 beses sa arena! Muli, nagpapasalamat ako, at ang buong SPEV, sa pag-Sali at pagpunta sa Thunt and ViceNight 2013 Para sa aking pinakamamahal na komite, hindi ko mapaalam sa inyo kung gaano ako nagpapasalamat na kayo ang aking mga miyembro. Napaka galing niyong lahat talaga!! Maraming salamat sa aking mga VC Zo at Josh na iniintindi ako sa tuwing bigla nalang akong mawawala sa balat ng mundo. Maraming salamat din Hazel at Abby sa pag aayos ng Fashion Show, Ayi, Adriel, at Andee, aking pangatlo, pang apat, at pang limang VC, at sa lahat ng aking mga miyembro Bruno, Mark, Romano, Loice, Issa, Kiele, Risa. Pati sa aking mga apps at interns, MARAMING SALAMAT. Maraming salamat Nico, Nikuo, Peaches, Ila, Kristine, Fati, Early, Kevin, Bea, Aaron, Eric, Ina! Para sa pinakamamahal kong V5, TAPOS NA AKO SA MAJOR EVENT KO HAHA wag mainggit ;) HAHA Joke lang. Maraming salamat sa inyong suporta sa akin at sa aking mga ginagawa. Hindi pa din ako makapaniwalang matatapos na tayo, parang ang bilis. HUHU. Mahal na mahal ko kayo. <3 Salamat ulit!! p.s. PUTEK ANG HIRAP NG FULL TAGALOG. -_- (WOAH Conyo ako?)

Grace Poe

RYNA|Special Events

GMA LOL.

RIA|Sports nukulit ko kayo haha! Konting push nalang guys! Roar! Haha

Hello Ecosoc!

Congratulations to the Green Monkeys for winning in the Sports Cup! Super good job to everyone who participated! We hope you all had fun! It’s august already, and you know what that means! It’s almost September! Yaaaay! Get ready for the GRAND BATTLE ROYALE! September 6 is coming!

Hello Sports! Thank you for working hard on our events the past few months! I am really lucky to have such awesome members! Here’s to 2 more awesome months Adri, AK, Astin, Boz, Cesca, CV, Cyvil, Darrell, God, Janeen, Jed, Joseph, Justin, Luis, Miguel, Mike, Orion, Rino, Sarah, Topy, and Tracy! Shout out to my young mems who have been really bibbo and enthusiastic during the sem!

You guys know who you are! So proud of you kids! Haha!

Love you forever, SPORTS! To my VC’s, Boz and Joseph, thanks for working hard and being patient throughout the sem! Sandali nalang, Grand Battle Royale na, so please be patient parin pag ki-

To my apps, Angel, Daryl, EJ, Emira, Gino, Richmoune, and Ronald, you guys have already completed half of your application process, and I’m really proud of you all! Keep it up guys! Be active and bibbo forever okay? 2 months nalang!

And CONGRATULATIONS SPORTS-EXTERNALS! I’m so proud of us! Really enjoyed bonding with you guys sa treasure hunt and pretreasure hunt events! Love this pair! Thank you to those who participated!

To V5, 2 more months left! Let’s go guys!

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 9

INSIDE ECOSOC

“MEMCOM MONTHLY” LAUNCHED LAST JULY 2013, THE UP ECONOMICS SOCIETY MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE LAUNCHED MEMCOM MONTHLY, A NEW PROJECT WITH A PURPOSE OF BRINGING MEMBERS, AS WELL AS APPLICANTS, TOGETHER THROUGH DIFFERENT EVENTS EVERY MONTH. by Lisanne Gaborni The first ever Memcom Monthly was a film screening held on July 26 at the Ecosoc Tambayan. Everyone who attended had the opportunity to watch and sing to High School Musical. The movie was selected by the members through a poll 10 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

posted in the Ecosoc Facebook group.

Memcom Monthly is a chance for every member and every applicant to hangout with one another through other various activities instead of the usual team-building seminars. It will now replace the Grand Mems’ Team-

Building Seminar, or GMTBS, that was held only once in a semester.

Members under probation or suspension are required to attend this as well.

The Vice Night held last August 16 would be considered as the Memcom Monthly for this month.

NEWS

ECON COMMUNITY GETS READY FOR LIFE AFTER SE

by Joby Guerrero

LAST AUGUST 7, 2013 THE LIAISON COMMITTEE HOSTED THE LOCAL VERSION OF THE APPRENTICE AND CALLED IT THE APPRENTICE: UP ECON EDITION. This event was held at SE 114 and was

LUNCH WITH THE SCHOLARS

by Vico Ubaldo

WITH ALL OUR PREVIOUS SCHOLARS HAVING GRADUATED LAST SCHOOL YEAR, we have a

hosted by Mark Manguera and Jus Nuque. The eventâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s objective is to present the different career opportunities for SE graduates from some of the SE alumni themselves.

Different guest speakers were able to share their thoughts during the event. The people who imparted their wisdom were: Jenny Blas from SGV & Co, Herminio Famatigan, from Maybank Philippines, David de Padua and Jessie Ruth Granadillos from the National Economic Development Authority and the most recent Apprentice Asia Candidates, Celine Le Neindre and the winner himself Jonathan Yabut.

Each speaker shared what they think the SE graduates can do in their respective fields. The Apprentice Asia candidates meanwhile talked about their experience in Apprentice Asia. All of the speakers shared some tips on choosing what path to take after graduation.

new batch of seven scholars under our custody and the beneficiary of the efforts of Task Force. These are Micha Borromeo, Trisha Edongan, and Andrea Suizo from Krus na Ligas High School; Kimberly Martinez and Christine Wagas from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines; and Eduard de Guzman and Kristian Martinez from the School of Economics, University of the Philippines Diliman.

Last August 16, 2013, the Scholarship Committee had lunch with the scholars as the committee welcome the new scholars to the scholarship program. This was held in a private room of an Italian restaurant called Friuli Trattoria in Maginhawa St., UP Village.

Amidst the delicious pasta and pizza served, the members were able to talk to, laugh with, and get to know their scholars, including the legal guardians of the high school scholars who were also invited. Towards the end, we showed a video and presentation about Ecosoc and the scholarship program. Questions were raised and answered about the scholarship program as well. In the end, it was a hearty experience to see how much our scholars appreciated the program along with having a good lunch with them.

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 â&#x20AC;˘ 11

NEWS

SPORTS CUP: WHERE LEGENDS ARE MADE

by Vico Ubaldo

WANNA BE ON TOP? ECOSOC'S NEXT TOP MODEL

by Alfonso Roces

THE THEME OF THIS SEMESTER’S SPORTS CUP IS LEGENDS OF THE HIDDEN TEMPLE WHICH WAS A POPULAR KIDS’ GAME SHOW IN NICKELODEON IN THE ‘90S; a show we probably have watched in our child-

hood. Thus, following the theme, the members were divided into three teams: the Red Jaguars, the Blue Barracudas, and the Green Monkeys (no Silver Snakes because they always win!)

Organized specially by the Sports Committee, this semester’s sports cup was held on August 3, 2013 from 9am to 3pm at the Xavierville 1 Courts. Participation was fairly good with 109 recorded attendees. There were around an equal number of members and applicants, and around 12 alumni who joined in the fun. Five generations of Sports Committee Chairperson were also present: Oggie Enriquez, Van Valdez, Myk Narciso, Janeen Cayetano, and Ria Tensuan.

The games played were basketball, volleyball, futsal, ultimate, and human jackstone (imagine throwing a ball into the air and “collecting” people until you collect everyone). The overall winners of the games were the Green Monkeys. The MVP’s were the following: Raffy Arcilla and Emira Guingon for basketball, Romano Alonzo and Ryna Claro for volleyball, Arsenio Lukban for futsal. Aris Dacanay and Cara Latinazo were awarded as the ultimate MVPs. Congratulations to all the winners and thanks to everyone for coming to play!

CLEANING TIME: APPHOLSTER

by Alfonso Roces

ECOSOC'S NEXT TOP MODEL IS BACK! THIS SPEVHOSTED EVENT FORMED THE DIFFERENT COMMITTEES (Sports-Externals, Semcom-Echoes-Memcom,

Liaison-Academics, Fin-CDC) to battle each other by creating the best photos (with the models being from each team) based on the theme for that week. Whichever team receives the most peso votes wins the contest.

For the first week, the theme was 7 Deadly Sins so teams tackled Gluttony (Fin-CDC, Lust (Semcom-Echoes-Memcom), Wrath (Fin-CDC) and Greed (Liaison-Academics). The second theme was "Circus" so the teams tried to make their photos as colorful as possible. The final theme was titled "Trash Fashion" so each team had to incorporate trash in their photo shoots yet maintain beauty and equilibrium despite this.

To culminate this event, a military-themed fashion show, where apps and mems from the teams catwalked, was done and here, the winners of ENTM were announced; Semcom-Echoes-Memcom had won.

12 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

AS TIME PASSES, DIRT, TRASH AND DUST ACCUMULATE IN THE TAMBAYAN; HOWEVER, IN ORDER TO REMOVE ALL OF THESE, APPHOLSTER, A CLEANUP OF THE TAMBAYAN BY THIS SEMESTER’S APPLICANTS IS DONE. It started with the removal of all the furniture in the Tambayan. Afterwards, each of the furniture was cleaned and all the pieces of trash left were picked up and thrown. Then, the Tambayan was sprayed with water and all of the dust was swept away. Once the water was mopped and dried, all the furniture was placed back in and rearranged. Aside from this, the Ecosoc storage room was cleaned as well.

The event ended with a few words from the Seccom Chair, Arsenio Lukban, who encouraged the apps to continue maintaining cleaning the Tambayan even as time pass.

NEWS

CDC MED MISSION ACCOMPLISHED

by Bryan Domingo

THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE ORGANIZED A MEDICAL MISSION AT POOK DAGOHOY IN UP DILIMAN ON AUGUST 10, 2013, which was able to

serve 230 patients from the area, including nearby barangays.

The medical staff, composed of 19 volunteers from UP Manila, rendered glucose level testing for elders and general checkup and consultation services for toddlers and pregnant women.One of the doctors was a medical student from UP Manila.

Aside from the basic health services, the team also distributed free medicines upon the prescription by the doctors. Dermatological and other services were also provided.

44 members and 21 apps, excluding CDC members, volunteered for the mission and aided in the consultations and distribution of medicines to the patients.

According to Maan Ariate, this semester’s head for CDC medical mission, the event was successful because it reached out more than a hundred of patients from the community.

The medical mission went according to plan and ran from 9am to 12pm. During the closing program, CDC recognized the volunteer doctors, including the Vice Mayor’s Office District 4 and barangay health workers, for their exemplary service in the mission.

THE RETURN OF PAWS CDC

by Vico Ubaldo

THE LAST PAWS CDC WAS HELD AROUND FOUR YEARS AGO, AND CDC CHAIRPERSON XP DAMIAN WANTED TO BRING IT BACK IN ITS LINEUP OF “NEW” CDC EVENTS FOR THIS SEMESTER. Here, members will get to feed animals at the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) Animal Rehabilitation Center (PARC), located at Aurora Boulevard. The purpose of this event is to be able to care for abandoned and ill-treated animals and learn about the prevention of animal cruelty, which is the main advocacy of PAWS. Call time on July 29, 2013 was 7am, and the group of two CDC mems and 14 apps arrived at PARC at 8:30. They mixed two kilos of rice and ten kilos of ground pork, put them on dog dishes, and handed them to the caretakers who gave them to the dogs to eat. No one, however, could touch the dogs because they were said to bite. Only dogs were fed because there was no budget to feed the cats as well which is more expensive. Also part of the CDC is to attend a seminar that will be given by the chairperson of PAWS. Unfortunately, she was not around, and so the group made do with the feeding program, and the CDC ended around 10:30.

Overall, the CDC was great experience, but hopefully the seminar will be available next time.

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 13

NEWS

SPEV HOSTS VICE NIGHT

by Lisanne Gaborni MEMBERS AND APPLICANTS OF THE UP ECONOMICS SOCIETY

were able to chill and hang right after a tiring Treasure Hunt experience last August 16 during Vice Night, an event hosted by the Special Events Committee.

After the teams battled in Treasure Hunt’s last station at the CS Am-

phitheater, everyone headed to the venue in Golf Hills Terraces Clubhouse.

People arrived at the place at around 10 PM. After everyone has settled down, food was served.

SPEV Chairperson Ryna Claro announced the results of Treausre Hunt: FINCDC placed 4th, LAB (Liason-Acads-BB) was

WET AND WILD ON SPEV’S TREASURE HUNT

by Bryan Domingo

IT WAS ANOTHER WET AND WILD EXPERIENCE FOR THE MEMBERS AND APPLICANTS OF ECOSOC

as they competed in this semester’s Treasure Hunt held

by Special Events Committee in UP campus on August 16, 2013. Members and apps were grouped, according to their home committees, into four teams: CDC-Fin, Liai-AcadBB, Seccom-Memcom-Echoes-GJ and Sports-Externals.

Teams had to walk from one station to another, like the College of Architecture to Vinzons, and to finish certain tasks quickly since the competition was time-based. The shorter the time spent in one task, the higher points the team will receive. The tasks were really patterned after military drill and team building exercises, since it was the theme for the whole event (and semester), such as passing through a hole without touching the strings and decoding a hidden message.

But, aside from the challenge-based race, the much-awaited part was the Capture the Flag which basically entails capturing the opponent’s flag. Since the start of the day when SPEV turns over the flags until the culminating event, teams were aggressively trying to get the flag of one another.

The whole event culminated in the College of Science Amphitheater where the battle continues for the coveted title. Five girls from each team served as “tributes” in the Hunger Games-like match, while the rest were struggling to protect and capture opponents’ flags.

After the event, Ecosocers went to Vice Night, where Spornals were heralded as champions.

14 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

in 3rd place, SMECHOES (SeccomMemcom-Echoes) was 2nd and SPORNALS (Sports-Externals) were declared champions. Attendees were also called to join the party games prepared for the night, such as Suck and Blow. As per Vice Night tradition, alcoholic beverages were enjoyed all throughout the event.

AN EVENTFUL TAMBAY WEEK

by Alfonso Roces

FROM AUGUST 13-16 2013, THE BIANNUAL TAMBAY WEEK WAS HELD. DURING THIS WEEK, APPLICANTS WERE REQUIRED TO HAVE AT LEAST 10 HOURS WORTH OF TAMBAY. Aside

from this, numerous events sponsored mainly by Spev were held and for this, the different committees were clustered into teams (Spornals, Smechoes, Lab, Fin-CDC).

The Tambay Week started off with pizza and spaghetti which both applicants and members enjoyed for free . Afterwards, its first event, held on the afternoon of August 13, involved an obstacle game wherein the winners would win additional points. On the afternoon of the 14th, applicants went to a run around the oval sponsored by both Spev and Sports. Whichever team that had the most attendees would also receive the same bonus. On the next day, both Apps and Mems geared in with their best military outfits for an army-themed fashion show.

On the last day of Tambay Week, from 4:00 until around 8:30, a very tiring yet enjoyable Treasure Hunt filled with exciting minigames was done throughout the whole campus was won overall by Spornals (Sports-Externals) with 220 points. Right after this, the week ended with a bang, at Vice Night, held in Golfhills Terraces, where apps, members and even a few alumni socialized with each other, accompanied by a round of drinks.

NEWS THE APPRENTICE: ECON Jonathan Yabut imparting some knowledge • Photo by Martin Consing

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 15

NEWS SPORTS CUP JM with his intense I'm-gonna block you face • Photo by Cara Latinazo

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ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 17

NEWS VICE NIGHT Lyon and Hazel looking very ecstatic • Photo by Cara Latinazo

18 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 19

NEWS

TEAM GILAS Jimmy Alapag holding up the Philippine Team's Silver Trophy 20 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

NEWS

31

the age of Derek Medina, the man who killed his wife and posted his confession through Facebook.

He attached a photo of his blood-stained wife with his confession post.

NEWS BY

NUMBERS

BY JOBY GUERRERO

74

people died from the collision between a cargo vessel and a passenger ship that happened in Talisay, Cebu. The 2Go Ship M/V St. Thomas Aquinas 1 sank when it collided with Sulpicio Exrpress Siete

40

years after man and son fled during the Vietnam war, they were found living in the jungle, The pair is believed to have survived the Quang Ngai forest by looking for fruits, living in a timber tree house and wearing clothes made from tree bark.

1,900,000,000

amount in Philippine Pesos of the deal to a Japanese firm Takenaka Corp., to finish the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3. The Department of Transportation and Communication said that they eye to finish the terminal by August 2014

53,000,000

amount in pesos that was traced to Janet Lim Napolesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; bank account, money that was supposed to have gotten through ghost NGOs. A warrant of arrest has been issued against Napoles by the Makati RTC

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 â&#x20AC;˘ 21

NEWS

38,000

amount in US dollars of the bag that a sales clerk refused to show Ms. Oprah Winfrey because “she wouldn’t be able to afford it.” Ms. Winfrey feels this is sad case of racism.

2,000,000,000

amount in pesos the government is willing to absorb the real property tax (RPT) that was supposed to be imposed to the LRT1 extension project. This will be the biggest deal-breaker that will be absorbed by the government.

2

the place of Philippine Basketball Team, Gilas, in the FIBA Asian Games held at the Mall of Asia Arena. The team will fight at FIBA Basketball World Cup in Spain on August 2014.

1,000,000,000,000,000 amount in Yen of Japanese Central Government’s debt. The government has been issuing a big amount of government bonds recently.

3

the rank of SM Department Stores and Hypermarkets in the list of best retail brands in the ASEAN region. This is according to Interbrand, the world’s largest brand consultancy firm.

22 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

NEWS

UP Economics Society

NEWS

105

6

NUMBERS

BY JOBY GUERRERO

speakers from different fields gave their take on what UPSE graduates can do after graduation. 222 UPSE students have attended this event.

230

people have been served from the recent Med Mission held at Pook Dagohoy. The medical staff is composed of volunteers from UP Manila.

Deadly Sins is one of the themes for this semester’s Ecosoc’s Next Top Model. The other themes were Circus and Trash Fashion.

4

BY

7 7

teams that competed in Treasure Hunt. Spornals (Sports-Externals) won this semester’s treasure hunt.

is now the official number of scholars Ecosoc supports. 3 are highschool students from Krus na Ligas, 2 are from Polytechnic University of the Philippines and 2 are from the School of Economics, University of the Philippines Diliman.

the number of hours required for applicants to “tambay” during Tambay Week. Different events were held each day of the Tambay week.

5

10

Sports Committee Chairpersons attended this semester’s Sports Cup. 12 alumni also were around to bond with members and apps.

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 23

F E ATUR ES

24 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 25

ECHOES

FADING OUT

BY LERIZZE TAN

How long has it been since you stepped into the movie house to watch a locally produced film?

IMAGINE A ROMANCE FILM THAT

ends in a garden. There are flowers everywhere. The girl is walk down the aisle. The guy smiles. A montage ensues and finally the newlyweds kiss.

Then slowly the screen fades to black and the audience is either quiet in disappointment or squirming in “kilig”.

John Lloyd – Bea. John Lloyd – Sarah.

Kim- Gerald. Kim - Xian. They meet.

They fall in love. They separate. They get back together. They live happily ever after. Everything about the Filipino film industry screams redundant. The pairings are all too familiar to the point that you already know who’s going to end up with who before the movie even begins.

26 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

Normally, before some of these films are made, the actors will be involved in some generic issue and they’ll be accused of being in relationships with each other (if they aren’t already). They’re interviewed in showbiz gossip channels such as one we’ll hide with the name “The B” and another we could call “Star T”. The couple’s lives are continuously hyped up as the release of the films approach.

These films are normally produced by big companies that we can hide with the names “Star C” and “Gma P”. These are the types of films that normally employ THE PRECONCEIVED DIFFERENCE the three act structure where boy meets Now it’s time to differentiate the “world- girl and they fall in love (Introduction), class” films from the mainstream films.1 they break up (Conflict) then they make First we have our mainstream films. The up and get back together (Denouement). normal characteristics of these films This type of story is all too familiar, all include having THE most popular couples. too common yet for most Filipino fans it

ONE DAY IN FILM CLASS “Bakit di ka Crush ng Crush mo? BS lang yan.”

It was strange, almost uncomfortable, to hear Ramon Bautista, the man behind the inspiration of the movie say such words. He was kidding, of course. But he always emphasized the difference between world class films and mainstream films. World class films garner awards in festivals such as Cannes while mainstream films….well, they make money.

1 I don’t really know if I’m grouping the films right but I’m not saying that mainstream films can’t win awards and award winning films can’t be mainstream. Also, indie films can make money too, sometimes.

FEATURES brings entertainment. It gives them hope that maybe one day - someday - they’ll find that ridiculously good looking guy in a very strange place and end up with him. “World-class films,” on the other hand, usually use a different formula. They may tackle themes not normally presented by other movies. Instead of the “feel good” feeling that mainstream movies trot out, these so called “world-class” films leave the audience with feeling of uncertainty and uneasiness. One director describes this feeling as “nakakapagpabagabag” (try saying that three times fast!) and he claims that normally these films try to awaken some sense of responsibility in individuals.

SOCIETY’S DILEMMA More often than not Mainstream films are considered “jeje” while indie films are considered classy (but still quite jeje to some because some people regard all things Filipino jeje; now that’s a different issue). But what’s wrong with that? Well nothing really except for the fact that these jeje people that we regard, these people that are normally regarded as trying hard or people with low IQs2, are the ones who support the industry. We3, on the other hand (the classy, cool, educated ones) support films from foreign lands.

It’s sad that some films are underappreciated by Filipinos yet highly regarded by foreign film critics. There are a lot of films that Filipinos don’t even bother to watch probably because their favorite actors aren’t there or they think they won’t enjoy the film. In a way it makes sense. Why would you spend 150 pesos or more to watch a film with cheap effects when instead for almost the same amount you could watch a blockbuster film with exploding cars and flying animals? Sir Ramon even mentioned that a single scene of the Avengers probably showcases more special effects and explosions than an entire FPJ film. If this is the case, why should we still watch Filipino films? Is it for awareness sake? Is it to support our economy?

For entertainment? The answers will always depend upon ourselves.

indie film did, but he continued to push us to support other films in the industry.

There are two main issues here: One being the battle between foreign and local films, and the other is the battle between mainstream and more serious, deep films. Generally our film industry still lacks support, but aside from this we also need to learn to support the right films. We need to learn to appreciate films such as Himala or Ang Tatay Kong Nanay because these represent our culture better than silly films like No Other Woman. (Editors note: Ah, but our patronage of such films obviously represents something significant about our culture!)

"There remains the uncertainty of whether the silence represents people’s amusement or disappointment. Maybe it was indifference. ”

PUSHING FORWARD We all have ample knowledge on the laws of supply and demand, and thus we all know that when demand decreases eventually, supply decreases. Sir Ramon recalled an experience when he produced an indie film in the past. He required his students to watch the film in UPFI yet the institute was barely even crowded. He compared this to Bakit di ka Crush ng Crush mo? which crowded cinemas nationwide. He said that KimXi fans reserved various cinemas for block screening. He recalled how the fans would scream over Xian despite the lack of action in the film. He didn’t describe the movie as tasteless although he often joked about how we shouldn’t be watching those kinds of films. He admitted that it made him more money that his According to the Urban Dictionary Actually I wasn’t sure I should include myself but since I’m cool…

2 3

As much as rom-coms portray the happy-go-lucky lifestyle of Filipinos, there are a lot of other films that talk about issues we face such as the struggle of genders in the country and the high regard for religiosity, or even the importance of family. A lot of films could better represent our country and our situation and so we must increase the demand for these films by supporting them. Why do we have to wait for foreign bodies to appreciate the pinnacle of Filipino film art when we, ourselves, could be the ones critically analyzing and appreciating the films? Even if they don’t have the same budget that Hollywood filmmakers have, Filipino filmmakers have the pursuit for art and the same need to create something that reveals a different kind of reality.

All that our filmmakers really need is affirmation and support.

That’s where we come in.

FADING OUT Then the screen slowly fades to black. The silence continues because no one wants to talk about the industry. No one wants to talk about our film industry. Then there remains the uncertainty of whether the silence represents people’s amusement or disappointment. Maybe it was indifference.

Maybe there isn’t a problem with the industry after all. Maybe the problem is with the people and with the choices that they make.

Lerizze Tan is the Associate Editor of this publication and former Features Editor. She enjoys looking at pictures of bunnies and gifs of them falling off their chairs.

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 27

ECHOES

BOY ABUNDA AS THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

BY ERIC STO. DOMINGO

BOY ABUNDA for president

CHARISMATIC, FASHIONABLE, SEXUALLY CONFIDENT,

AND AN

intelligent conversationalist, Boy Abunda is a fine example of what a modern Filipino is. The undisputed King of Talk in Filipino Showbiz has dominated the industry with his shows like The Bottomline with Boy Abunda, Home Boy, and The Buzz. Now think of the effervescent talk show host not only conquering our television sets, but our country's voting ballots. Imagine him out-doing Manny Pacquiao, and running for the presidency, and actually winning. What if he became the President of the Philippines?

outlets crazy. Of course all the newfound power these two will gain will obviously be put to good use.

First, President Boy Abunda will make his The Buzz studio the official residence and office of the president, thereby making MalacaĂąang

Let the idea sink in. It's not that much of farfetched idea. It's like having defunct. He will still hold his television a gay Noynoy Aquino as president. They're both bald, and they both wear glasses, show, while interviewing politicians except that Boy Abunda is a million times more interesting. In fact, his running mate instead of celebrities to kill two birds would be his long-time best friend and sister to the actual president, Kris Aquino. with one stone! Expect episodes of The Imagine the buzz that would create on social media. The titanic tandem of Boy and Buzz where Boy Abunda will interview Kris, conquering the political Olympus of the Philippines would just set all news senators like Tito Sotto and Chiz

28 â&#x20AC;˘ AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

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Escudero. He will ask them important biggest criminals! Janet Lim Napoles questions like which senior member of has a senate hearing? Well, everyone will the senate is dating Loren Legarda, and know who she's currently sleeping with! then suddenly introduce surprise guests A man is being accused of murder? You'll like Congressman Sonny Belmonte and know how he left his family for a mistress former president Gloria Arroyo! Don't be living in Japan! Ate Charo will have a run surprised if he teaches them about their for her money. political and fashion faux pas. In fact,

Even President Abunda's he'll have his amazing vice-president speeches will turn heads.

Imagine Kris Aquino be the judge. his first ever inaugural speech. Clad

Second, the president will in his fashionably fuchsia barong, make the House of Representatives and complete with his iconic square-rimmed the Senate into an actual television show. glasses, the trendsetting president It'll be his pet project, and he'll turn it will undoubtedly use his "AHIHIHIHI" into the biggest reality tv show the laugh to get the people interested. With Philippines has ever seen. It'll star the cameras all-around, watch him turn his most prominent of politicians, and their speeches into spectacles complete with exciting lives. Have you ever seen real- fireworks, marching bands, and celebrity life senators and congressmen go to the hosts. Remember all those bored people bathroom, eat their breakfast, and go to caught on camera, watching the SONAs? sleep? Well, you will be able to because Hell, I bet most people watching on the President Abunda is going to make it all TV were bored. Boy Abunda is gonna possible, in high definition. pimp-slap your boredom to God knows

Third, and possibly his most where.

will have his boytoy RR Garcia of the FEU Tamaraws. Watch as the tag team of Boy Abunda and Kris Aquino square off against Vice Ganda and RR Garcia in one giant wrestling pay-per view. Which team will win this match? Well, in true democratic power, President Abunda will turn the whole thing into one giant piso-voting bonanza. No matter who wins this match, the true winner will be us, the Filipino people.

After all of that is said and done, in the twilight years of Boy Abunda's presidential career, he will pull off one more act amazing graciousness.

As the self-proclaimed greatest president the Philippines has ever had, he will interview himself. The King of Talk interviewing the president will be his last greatest act of kindness for his beloved country. Be prepared to see Boy Abunda asking himself awkward questions, which he will then ambiguously answer and try to evade. Be prepared to see himself crying to his own questions and answers, favorite, President Abunda will be

But Boy Abunda's presidency the judge in all judicial hearings, and won't be without hiccups. In fact, I and be surprised at his own surprise court hearings for the remainder of his predict that his biggest rival would be guests! Be prepared to see the greatest term. Why you may ask? Well, as an Vice Ganda, the sneaky son of a bitch. thing in the history of all television. experienced talk show host, he will not If Ninoy Aquino had Ferdinand Marcos, People will name their children Boy only have the know-how in listening to Boy Abunda has Vice Ganda. Their Abunda, in honor of this great man. people, but at questioning them as well! political rivalry will be the biggest in

Ultimately though, Boy He's far more interesting than any of the whole world. These giants of the Abunda being our president is still just the old judges, so why not have his fun- celebrity world will clash in such a way a dream. It's something, we as a people, loving self handle all of the political cases that politics has never seen before. Vice have to fight for. For now though, we just for the country? Let's not forget that he's Ganda will try to wrestle the control away have to satisfy ourselves with watching going to turn this into one huge television from Boy Abunda through his television him laugh his way through his TV shows show too. Everyone will just have to tune show, Gandang Gabi Vice. He'll try all the on ABS-CBN and ANC. in at the National President Boy Abunda maneuvering he can to be the true queen Eric Sto. Domingo is currently an Channel just to see him ask the most of the Philippines, but he won't just do it applicant for Echoes. He is the selfpertinent of questions to the country's alone. If Marcos had Imelda, Vice Ganda professed kuya of his app batch.

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 â&#x20AC;˘ 29

ECHOES

THE MODERN FILIPINO AND THE STRUGGLES WITH RELIGIOUSITY

BY JOSHUA SIAT

W

hen was the last time you prayed? When was the last time you were inside a church? When was the last time you actually paid attention to the priest’s homily? A lot of you, whether you like to admit it or not would probably start with filler words such as “uhmmmm….”, “ahhhh….”, before saying something like “a long time ago?” Yes, there are plenty in our generation (which I will refer to here as the modern Filipino) that are quite religious, pious and sincere in worship and still does regularly what many “casual” Catholics like me fail to do. On two occasions, a mem asked me to go with him to mass, at lunch time, while I was happily wasting away time at the tambayan. Its instances like these that force me to re-evaluate my attitude and perception towards religion. I’m still very much a Catholic, though I’m not sure to which degree.

(Since Roman Catholicism comprises the majority of Philippine religion, it will be the subject of discussion here, though most statistics presented also reflect other religions in the Philippines as a whole.)

LIVING WITH RELIGION

Religion has always been a part of the Filipino way of life, particularly, Catholicism. Most of the things we grew up around with were influenced by it.

Daily reminders mark the impact it has had on the way we live. Several churches line the roads and streets I pass by in going to school. An elderly woman next to me in the shuttle silently prays the rosary to herself. Holidays and local fiestas celebrate the memory of religious figures.

Its influence permeates nearly every facet of Filipino culture, but in today’s age, and particularly in our generation, is the idea of religion still as strong as it was several years ago? Is there a place for religion with the modern Filipino, that is, our generation? Is religion still valued enough by the modern Filipino to have a place in their lives?

Most of us here are the product of 30 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

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“

We don’t like having things imposed upon us, and the fairly archaic nature of the Catholic Church has probably caused some disillusionment among the youth.

Catholic institutions. I myself am one of many. Most of us who come from these institutions more or less retain some sort of tradition that they carry beyond their departure from these schools. In my case, I carry a rosary in my back pocket every day.

It’s second nature though, and like brushing my teeth every day, it’s become routine, which therefore doesn’t speak a lot about my devoutness or spirituality. The funny thing is, I don’t even bring it out for the entire day. I also seem to still be surprised by individuals who nonchalantly declare their being agnostic or atheist in casual conversation, considering that they come from more prominent Catholic and religious backgrounds. These instances though, are very minor and isolated ones compared to the huge shifts going on in modern Philippine society. More and more people have become disillusioned with their religions and in terms of politics. Bills like the Reproductive Health Law which 20 years ago would have been laughed out of Congress, are now an actual laws waiting for implementation.

concept of worship is now seen in Philippine families. It isn’t a must, an obligation, but more of a matter of convenience.

In the political and national arena, the change has become pretty apparent in the last 10 years or so. The controversial beast that is the Reproductive Health/Responsible Parenthood Law is the most striking of recent examples. 20 years ago, this wouldn’t have even made it to the session floor, much less reach any congressman’s desk. Now, this thing is an actual law, though it has been stuck in Supreme Court limbo for a while. Decades ago, no congressman and senator would dare try and file a bill like this for fear they’d probably lose much of the public’s support. Is the passing of this law a reflection of a change in values for the Filipino public? Towards religion? It may very well be. The Catholic Church doesn’t have as big an influence and clout as it had before when it came to political matters, and this has become evident due to the friction between the CBCP (Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines) and the Aquino administration. More and more groups have also been CHANGING TIMES? The 21st century has inevitably brought the world closer. vocal about their disillusionment with the Catholic Church Globalization has unintentionally been blurring the lines and religion in general. Some have growing followings, like between the nations’ cultures and values and our own. Today’s the Filipino Freethinkers, and many other atheist and agnostic youth is more open to the ideas outside our borders and has groups. This doesn’t mean though that religion has lost its been obviously influencing much of today’s popular culture. We footing in the realm of politics. The INC vote is still very much are a less traditionalistic bunch, than generations prior, and our sought-after by candidates seeking public office. Plenty of values system has more or less been permeated by foreign ideas. religious leaders either run or lend their services for campaign We don’t like having things imposed upon us, and the fairly advertisements. Clearly, the influence is still very much there, archaic nature of the Catholic Church has probably caused the change is that most of modern Filipino society has decided to value religion’s role merely somewhere else, in this case, out some disillusionment among the youth.

In an SWS (Social Weather Stations) survey conducted of the way of the legislative process. last summer, only 37% of the respondents said that they still A MATTER OF TRANSFORMATION & RE-EVALUATION regularly attend church services. This is a pretty steep decline Despite these stark changes in perception and values, compared to a similar survey conducted in 1991, wherein it religion will probably never lose its place in the Filipino. It has was at 64%. Could this be a reflection of the modern Filipino’s been there from the day we were born to the day we die. It’s attitude toward religion? Times have changed, though, and something that will be passed on from generation to generation, even the Catholic Church has been forced to adjust to these and how each generation will perceive and value it is up to them, changing perceptions and values. Take for example, the fact but the matter of fact is, it will remain a constant in a country that here have been church services for quite a while now in like ours. The modern Filipino is still pretty religious; it’s just malls and other commercial establishments, because Filipino that we decided to re-evaluate its place in our lives. You know families now tend to spend their Sunday gatherings inside how the old saying goes: “The more things change, the more climate-controlled buildings of consumerist excess. Does eating they stay the same.” out in a mall, watching a movie, and shopping now equate the modern Filipino family’s idea of a Sunday well-spent? Does the Joshua Siat is the go-to-man for Echoes articles outside traditional, morning or evening Sunday mass still hold true for the Filipino family, particularly those in the deemed socially Echoes. He knows this. He's also a Vice-Chair for SPEV. So he adjusted middle class? There is certain casualness to how the probably knows how to be wild.

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 31

ECHOES

The undisputed queen of Ecosoc wasn't the Externals royalty she is regarded as today. She started out in the U.P. Economics Society in a completely opposite direction. All queens were children once.

HER MAJESTY WORDS BY FRANCES QUEZON PHOTOS BY SAM GONZALES

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ECHOES WELCOME This is Quek's garden

NO ONE WOULD HAVE EVER EXPECTED THAT

Over ten years ago, the same little girl who would run to her father when she began losing at piko would one day grow up to be the unanimously revered Queen of UP Ecosoc. Queenie Mindanao, casually called Quek, was born in Manila on April 9, 1993. While growing up, it seemed that the fates had favored this organization as it had made critical junctures which guided Quek to enter the role that she now holds; the very same role which Pau Aquino jokingly states being “the very most important ingredient which makes Ecosoc taste fantastic”.

It all began with her UPCAT story. Quek shares that while filling her UPCAT forms out, she already somehow planned where she was going. It was a choice between her two loves, Psychology and Economics. She chose psychology because she loves interacting with people and economics because she liked math and enjoyed the subject back at the School of St. Anthony where she studied high school. Luckily, especially for the School of Economics, she passed for the BS Economics program where she plans to minor in Psychology. Nevertheless, if she did not pass Econ then she would not have considered joining Ecosoc and without her, perhaps the title “party org” would still be synonymous to the org’s name.

However, it was not smooth sailing in the beginning. Her 34 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

unmatched passion for her work as described today by Brian Cruz did not make an appearance back when she was still an applicant for the organization. Ayla Reyes shares that back then, Quek was not active enough to be considered outstanding. Her now constant presence at the tambayan and in events was very different from her being invisible before as stated by co-app Janine De Vera. Quek, herself, admits to being a “patapon” app before. She chalks it up to the fact that when she applied to the org, it was not yet the mission and vision of the org that she saw but because her blockmates decided to apply as well. She was very close to her E5 blockmates and would often be seen with them throughout her first year to today. However, Academic Affairs Cherperson Neil Ong defends her on this point by saying that he was even worse of an app than her. But beyond this point, the crucial moment of Quek’s app process was when she was choosing which committee to stay under. Being absent on the day of her App’s Or, she simply took the advice of her blockmates and chose the Externals Affairs committee. Good thing she was already genuinely interested in the committee especially as their selling point was to expose them to events outside the organization. This small decision paved the way for her evolution, and at the same time Ecosoc’s fate, as to this day, she has never left Externals.

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S

he, by the skin of her teeth, passed the app process and became a Proby Mem. The same Proby Mem who initially only stayed on at Externals out of gratitude for passing her ended up organizing The Rundown, UPFront, and garnered three major awards for the organization. But then again before she became the chairperson, it took a while before Quek came to love Externals. The passion was there but it was still locked away deep inside. It was under the guidance of former External chairpersons Reg Reinoso and Chila Innocencio that it blossomed. According to Quek, much of what Externals does today, such as UPFront and NES, was created by Reg. In addition, it was Reg who encouraged her to love Externals. Much can also be attributed to Chila who taught her the

“

The same Proby Mem who initially only stayed on at Externals out of gratitude for passing her ended up organizing The Rundown, UPFront, and garnered three major awards for the organization. But then again before she became the chairperson, it took a while before Quek came to love Externals.

ins and outs of the committee and had trained her to be the next Externals chairperson. It was at this point in time that her passion for her work stood out.

Power-app Tracy Miranda shares that at the point he entered the organization in 2011, you could already feel that Quek was going to be Ecosoc’s next PRO. Though throughout her stay in the org, it can be seen that it was really her drive to do the best that got her where she is now. Quek’s motto to never settle has pushed not only her but also the organization to aim higher and actually reach that higher goal. She was the Externals Vice-Chair for the two semesters under Chilla and beyond her home committee, she was also a School Relations officer for Taskforce for 2 semesters as well as the Assistant Director for Logistics in NYC 9. It takes a truly dedi-

FLOWERS Mabango ba, Quek?

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 35

ECHOES

cated person to achieve all those roles, as during the Fiesta themed semester, all three events (NES, NYC, Musikapella) took place in the same month. In the words of Liaison Chairperson Jessica Biscocho, “she has blossomed into this superwoman!” Shelly Umali shares that you can see not only her dedication and perseverance for everything ER-related, but also her enthusiasm and love for her work. She is truly an industrious member upholding the excellence of this organization. This is the once patapon app who has made Rundown and UPFront so successful in 2012, the semester which Quek refers to as the pinnacle of her career (though she has even bigger plans for NES this year). Mike Saulo sums it up by saying that while she may look scary, without her, Ecosoc would be in chaos.

Today, Quek continues to prove that she is truly invaluable to this organization. Seccom Chairperson Arsenio Lukban states that he cannot think of any other member will to protect the name of Ecosoc more than she can. Jessica adds that Quek’s passion for the org and her intense workmanship is an asset to the progress and achievements of the organization. Quek came with this vision for Externals, and by extension, for Ecosoc, and she will do anything to achieve it.

She is the bridge to the outside world, the mother to the members, the highest law in the tambayan, the one who can move mountains, and most importantly the one who makes sure that we never settle for anything but the best. Ask any member in this org, and even the current apps, Quek is not invisible, she is not patapon, she is not misguided, she is not a burden, she is not a random workaholic.

She is the Queen.

Frances Quezon is a Pulse Member and a former Echoes applicant. Now she's the Web Editor. So guys, when Frances asks you to submit something, do it!

36 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

HER MAJESTY The Queen of Ecosoc

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I USED TO BE A JEJE

PROMDI Ang sarap siguro ng simpleng pamumuhay

OKAY, NOT REALLY. Here are the facts: I live in Bocaue, Bulacan, the place I regard to be the shittiest in the province. Our main road has very few street lamps such that you think you would be murdered at 7PM if you were a tourist... or from Manila. The newest establishment is a McDonald’s which was built sometime in 1997 and the last renovation was done only in 2013. It’s a kind of town where you still call the area nearest to the church “Bayan.” I studied there until Kinder 1 (or something), baby ballet and all, and then transferred to a conservative private Catholic girls school called Saint Theresa’s College in Quezon City. I met a lot of new people (lesbians) but I still had a lot of friends from Bocaue and spent a lot of time playing outside.1 I had maintained these relationships until high school, and I am still sort-of friends with them today. Back then, the concept of Jejemons didn’t exist, but they would probably be the modern day equivalents.

by Samantha Gonzales 1More appropriately called kalye or kanto, for those of you who understand what those mean culturally

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 37

ECHOES RIDICULE Jej talaga ni Sam

I ATE TAHO FOR THE FIRST TIME WHEN I WAS 14. I DIDN’T

want to try it when I was a kid because I thought it was dirty. It probably was dirty when I did eat it but I enjoyed it anyway.

Let me rephrase that: I learned how to eat taho when I was 14. You basically: Ask how much it is and if it’s hot. (It’s the morning. It should be.) Get the cheaper one.

The more expensive one is too big. Ask to put more arnibal (with a rolling “r” unless you’re burgis) before accepting it. Finish it in 6-8 gulps. Become friends with Kuyang Mantataho… because all mantatahos are really nice. It was the summer when my sisters and I met a bunch of kids who would later on become the reason why we all woke up at 4 AM, attempted to play basketball, were happy when Orange and Lemons released a new track, played intense games of Priki-priki Dam (Freaky, Freaky Dom?), hung out at sari-sari stores for extended periods of time, had our bikes stuck in the mud which we had to wash off at the nearest derelict rehabilitation center, and many more sweaty adventures. One summer turned into a bunch of years and our casual I-Don’t-Have-Anyone-Else-To-Hang-Out-With relationship turned into friendship. They’re basically the stuff award-winning coming-of-age novels are made of.

Come college, I ventured into a different and yet familiar world. I thought that UP was the perfect mix of what I grew up with: people who knew how to play tumbang preso, and people who didn’t know what tumba meant. But there I was, uptight freshman, wanting to get my first year in Econ over so that I could transfer to Computer Science, stuck in what is known to be the most bourgeois institution in UP. At first I thought it wasn’t so bad. It was okay, most of the time. Much to my displeasure, I found a group of people who I could hang out with and not want to 38 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

kill myself. I found an org with members who were interested in the same things I was interested in, like design and films and clothes and food and Zara sales and new dessert places and shoes and concerts and plays and iOS apps and nail colors, and the latest Kanye West tracks.

It was all fine and dandy until The Day of Taho and Existentialism.

It didn’t start out as a special day or anything; so much so that I wasn’t really thinking of what I was doing – just going through the motions. I bought a regularsized cup of taho from that same dude who always goes to Econ. I was in the middle of enjoying that hot cup of flavored soy when I realized I was using a spoon. I didn’t even notice that I took the thing from Kuya Econ Mangtataho.

I stopped dead in my tracks, and then I quickly gobbled it all up. With disdain for nothing in particular yet, I started to question many things. Who was I even?

WHAT WAS I DOING USING A SPOON 2A complicated game of agawang base

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TO EAT TAHO YOU DON’T EVEN NEED ONE WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME??? Who was this spoon-using person?

What were her motivations in life? What are the things she says? What are the things she thinks? Have I become a pawn of this new sphere I am in?! Why have I changed a habit that I put so much value on years ago? So I started to evaluate my life and my choices.

I realized that some parts of me, aside from the taho thing, had changed. Or, more accurately, erased. Where was the girl who jammed to Maharot and Khangkhungkherrnitz? Where was the girl who hung out in a faux tree house while watching a bad game of live basketball? When did I stop saying things like “gagong gupit” and “nauulul na aso” and start blurting out expressions like “OH EM” and “Na-finish mo na ba that?” When did I start exchanging adventures in the mud for adventures in restaurants? When did I stop eating taho and start drinking really expensive milk tea? My disdain for nothing in particular turned into disdain for the people around me, the situation I was in, the School, and the system that worked in it.

But whose fault was it? Could I blame Econ and its heavy

influence? Did it somehow brainwash me into becoming a junior of a Philippine Stepford Wife? No, the assimilation of the Econ culture couldn’t have been the fault of one party. I would’ve had to have a hand in this… mutation of sorts. I let these parts of me get erased; or rather, I erased them. The scary part is that it’s so easy. It was so easy to turn into someone new, someone else. It was a significant part of my life that I somehow tucked into the recesses of my mind such that it is simply unimaginable considering the image I have today.

I murdered the old me and tailored a new one which would make it easier for me to adapt to the School of the Joneses.

But when you think about it, it’s not turning into someone else that’s the problem – there’s nothing wrong with that.

It is not noticing you’re eating taho with a spoon, when you had once loved gulping it all down. It is losing yourself in a world that makes you think you want to be where it tells you to be.

Samantha Gonzales is the former Associate Editor of the publication and now the Features Editor. She loves eating taho with no spoon, and also a lot of sweaty-guy music.

SOCIAL BUTTERFLYAnd that is how Sam won Ja and Jamby ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 39

ECHOES

IF ECOSOC WAS THE PHILIPPINES

PATRIOTISM Parang may masamang balak si Bruno. Tulisan?!

THERE IS A LOT TO SEE IN THE PHILIPPINES. EVEN IN METRO MANILA ALONE, THERE ARE

countless destinations. With a rich culture and a diverse population, there is much to be said about what goes on in the streets of our country. But what would happen if Ecosoc was the Philippines? The possibilities and scenarios would be endless. Here are some of the places and people to look out for when traveling around the Philippines (if it were Ecosoc). By Tong

MMDA: SECCOM

When talking about the Philippines, informal settlers can never be left out of the equation. Squatters would always leave their trash in unwanted places, causing our surroundings to be dirty, usually with plastic bottles or Ate Leony’s siomai holder™. Even though the MMDA (Seccom/Ars) never fails 40 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

to reprimand and relocate these informal settlers, they always find a way to come back and leave their trash for the MMDA to clean up. These informal settlers must be reminded to throw their trash in appropriate places and cooperate with the MMDA. Hopefully, the problem of informal settlers can be resolved if not minimized so that the Philippines would be a cleaner and PHOTOS BY THE INTERNET

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better place to live in... or at least a place that’s not a shithole.

old community where artists, musicians, cinephiles and hipsters (weirdos) come together and talk about writing, BGC: CONYO PEOPLE But, if you are in the Philippines to photography, and the Japandroids gig make gastos of your pera or daddy just which they are holding in the burgis gave baon to you, make sure to call your counterpart of the hipster scene. In Cubao driver to make hatid to you to BGC, Fort, X you can find many artworks (naked Shang, or SM Aura (pronounced uhruh). women), vintage collectibles (naked Make punta to Loowee Biton, and then women in vintage Playboys), hipster make usap to the people who are making clothing (for the naked woman on your bili of the damit and bags there and be bed), and restaurants (there aren’t any mabait to them. They will surely make naked women though). Careful though, usap to you naman and maybe you can as one of two things is possible when you even get libre of ice cream or burjer from hang out in Cubao X (with Echoes): 1 you them. If you think you should make punta get scared by their weirdness, or 2 you to SM North or Trinoma to meet new get sucked into the 82nd dimension and friends, those malls are j3j3 kaya. Why come out as a full-fledged meta-hipster. not just make pa-drive to SM Uhruh and BINONDO: ACAD make tambay there? Even if you’re not With the seemingly increasing sanay there naman, meron ka for sure population of this beloved race in kakilala there, people like si Jus Nuque Ecosoc, these people definitely deserve and like si Jing. Sometimes pa nga you a town named after them. Chinatown, or can see Carmel making shopping din Binondo (home of the yellow Ecosocers), sa BGC kahit parang she’s not belong is where everyone would definitely naman pero at least she is making subok want to be. Much can be learned from pa of meeting friends there diba? People the inhabitants of Chinatown, from there are fun to make usap to kasi, don’t Buddhism, budgeting, and mathematics be very judge-er naman. to being in groups of three women and even the art of being racist. Apart from CHOCO HILLS: BLACK PEOPLE One of the main tourist destinations their amazing yellow skin, there is one in Philippines is the Chocolate Hills. detail that most people fail to notice. Only These eye-opening, chocolate-colored few people in this world, if any, have had attractions are sure to draw your the chance to bask in the beauty of the interest especially when viewed during eyes of the yellow people. The natives of a bright sunny day where the different this race are renowned to have the most hills’ complexion can be distinguished beautiful eyes, and it is in their culture to between milk chocolate and dark protect the things that are beautiful even chocolate. If you happen to spot any of if it means they have to seemingly close these hills in broad daylight, make sure their eyes all the time. to have a moment of silence to appreciate Q-AVE: MR. CONTY’S TERRITORY and savor the grandeur of the Chocolate One of the well-known places to Hills before taking a picture (preferably experience the “nightlife” in Metro with flash). Some Filipinos have taken the Manila is Quezon Avenue. Rumors say liberty of giving a number of these hills that a legendary Mr. Conty has played names. Some of the most well-known a very important part in the improving hills are “Boz”, “Ramm”, “Porn”, and the entertainment industry found in Quezon rare but fan favorite “Peter Indunan”.

Ave. after sunset. Mr. Conty may not seem like the man who can be found CUBAO X: ECHOES In the belly of the beast lies a little wandering the streets of Quezon Ave.

during the wee hours in the morning, but there have been many witnesses (such as Mr. Espino) willing to give their testimonies on what a notorious man Mr. Conty is in some of the most recognized establishments in the area. There are many more familiar faces that may be found in Quezon Ave., but the identities of these people have yet to be discovered.

US EMBASSY: MIKE SAULO AS THE ULTIMATE FIXER

After immersing yourself into the culture of Filipinos (Ecosocers), some people might feel like leaving this country, a pleasant place to visit would probably be the United States, but make sure to get a visa from the US Embassy.

Getting a visa might take you a long time; however, if you want the best service, you better look for Mr. Mike Saulo to help you get through the US Embassy. Mr. Saulo, very fluent in English (if not a master of the language), will surely make the process of getting a visa stress-free.

He is guaranteed to make noses bleed (and never his own) with his eloquence.

His precise pronunciation and diction of every word in the English language paired with his natural British accent make him a popular tourist attraction in the Philippines.

MINDANAO: QUEEN’S KINGDOM

There are many more places to see and people to meet that were not mentioned in this article but should be worth a visit, such as Mindanao, a sovereign kingdom ruled by a Queen that most people address as “Madame”.

Hopefully, this has opened the eyes of Ecosocers everywhere to pay more attention to the rich culture of the Philippines and the beautiful sights and sounds in every corner of our homeland.

Tong is a CDC member and the former rival of Gab Sollano. He is a chigger and he loves shoes. Now he has his own article, and Gab is furious.

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 41

ECHOES

MATIRA MATIBAG: PHILIPPINE MACHO CULTURE IN ECOSOC “I dare do all that may become a man. Who dares do more, is none.”

-Macbeth “It has often been said that Marcos was the first male chauvinist to underestimate me.”

-Corazon “Cory” Aquino “Pupulutin sila sa kangkungan!”

-Joseph “Erap” Estrada MASCULINITY. MACHISMO. BARAKO. ASTIG. LALAKE. THESE ARE THE TERMS YOU CAN USE TO DESCRIBE

the caricatures of men that pervade Philippine society. They are a fire-breathing lot—doused in alcohol and covered in cigarette smoke—that seem to thrive on the latest basketball news and generally walking without a damn about the world. The archetypal Philippine man. He lives in a world excluded from women’s problems, but seems to have a shrine devoted to their worship. As long as it’s got nice tits and an ass, man, that shit is hot. They don’t care about problems. They’re the masculine type of nymph, one that seems to groan more than sing, guffaw more than giggle. They’re almost mythical. By Derek Parreñas

I

n the Philippines, it’s a jungle.

On the extremes, they’re the ones on television that bring out their guns in order to scare their enemies. They’re the ones that exclaim “ginusto naman niya” when there’s a rape case. They’re those men that live in beerhouses, getting drunk and laid by the dancers. Plus points if they’re getting laid and they’re married. Those are the extremes, I said. But one thing’s for certain: In the Philippines (and also a lot of other places in the world), men dip their hands in vice and are manlier for doing so. Men sleep with women and are manlier for doing so. Men shouldn’t care about their appearance at all but feel so good-looking, and are manlier for doing so.

Majority of Ecosoc is comprised of women. When you look around you, though mostly quiet and unassuming, the membership is mostly comprised of females. Now what sort of majoritarian female society would allow itself to be subject to dominance of “macho culture” (note the quotation marks that emphasize the skepticism) in this day and age? You must understand then, that the perceived 42 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

prevalence of such a culture lends itself to the “macho culture’s” inherent trait of being obnoxious. Quick, think of the last time you were at the mercy of said culture. They are not as pervasive as we think, they are only as pervasive as we would like to perceive.

One more look into the society and you will actually find that the leadership stems mostly from women. And of the positions held by men, majority of them do not actually fit in the “macho” stereotype.

The executive committee, comprised of six men and six women, hold true to this observation. There is me, XP, Anon, Neil, GJ, and Ars. Of all of us, we can only safely say that Anon fits in the “stereotype”.

GJ doesn’t even know anything about basketball. Taking this analysis further into the Vice-Chair and Co-chair sphere of 27, there are 14 males and 13 females.

Now, I dare you to say that all the fourteen males ascribe to “macho culture”. There is no social dominance of the “macho” in Ecosoc as of the moment. If a half-baked notion of macho culture can still even be applied.

Those cross-cultural archetypal molds

of men get crossed with inherently Filipino aspects of life. It’s the little things, really. Emperador brandy, San Miguel beer, and on a good day, Double Black Label whiskey. The gago’s and the tanginamo’s.

The importance placed on being masculine, and if anything short of becoming a man is done, binabae ka. Taken from Reuben Ramas Cañete’s article entitled Re-envisioning the Macho: Masculinity in Philippine Visual Culture, the definition for macho is thus: “The macho is assumed to be a heterosexual male who fathers children from multiple women, fraternizes with other males in public displays of masculine bravado (like drinking, gambling, and fisticuffs), and establishes their social status through dominance over other sexes and genders, such as women and queers. ” Ecosoc has this, to an extent. Ecosoc has its share of macho culture. You can see it in the men that huddle together most of the time. Tracy, Mike, JYA, Boz, Andres, Matt, Yambao, Anon, JM, Hari, and the rest (This isn’t meant to defame, guys),

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BARAKO BOYS? The moniker given to them by Olivia Solomon they all embody that Filipino macho culture. Look at them, caricatures of men, as deemed by society. They emphasize basketball, drinking, and swagger to a certain extent made the norm in Philippine society. Think about it: fraternizing with other males in public displays of masculine bravado (I am laughing at this term). For example when Andres starts boisterously laughing in the tambayan, does it not seem so familiar? Or when you find JM and the rest of the basketball boys hanging out back in the area replacing the back-parking spot? Or when Alan, Yambao, and the rest start flexing their muscles for the camera (Just like the picture above)?

That is one aspect of the macho culture that Ecosoc has. But they do not have all three. For one, the "macho" of Ecosoc do not “establish their social status through dominance over other sexes and genders, such as women and queers.” I have not witnessed nor heard of any legitimate putdown from any of them towards women or queers. Legitimate putdown meaning telling these people exactly where their place is in the macho man’s perceived world of hierarchy. “Wala kang alam, kasi babae ka lang”—nothing of this sort (Of course, gender inequality still reigns in on our modern world, but this article is not about that). Truth be told, in the U.P. Economics Society, such putdowns are looked down upon. It’s no surprise really, upon closer

analysis, to see why this is the case. Belonging to the premiere state university where ideas of progression are hailed as angels, the ideology of gender inequality is a sin devoted to its own circle in hell. Surely, no man from the UP Economics Society would have themselves caught in public eschewing such backward ideas. It is not of the time, such as the notion of “macho culture” in Ecosoc may be an actual myth.

Lastly, understanding the aforementioned, you must also understand that the "macho men", not that I doubt the sexual prowess of these guys, we have not heard of any of them siring a child. Sure, it is in their nature to have an aura of having played so many women and to have tasted many women, but I’ve spoken to these guys. I know their problems, as much as any of us do. And it certainly isn’t about raising an illegitimate child. Sure, they may be manyakis but all men are, to an extent.

They all seek love like we do, and they falter, like we do. They are human. Unjustly looking at them from the outside makes them seem as if they are exactly what 70’s action films were about: invincible and packed with testosterone. But they are not invincible and they are not out to kill you. They just want to be understood.

Derek Parreñas is the Editor-in-Chief of the publication and the former Associate Editor. He enjoys social satire.

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 43

THE ENLIG

WORDS BY DER PHOTOS BY CARA LATINA

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GHTENED

REK PARREÑAS AZO & MARTIN CONSING

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ECHOES HENYO Pinagmamasdan ni Mike ang kalikasan

TWO SIDES OF THE SAME COIN:

JOMAC CONTY

“BAKE DAY WEDNESDAY AH! THAT’S MY PROJECT!” to which I suddenly retort, “Ah talaga? Di ko maalala yun eh.” We then laugh at that point in the interview. Observing him, Jomac seems unassuming to most. He barely stands out, but then appearances shouldn’t fool you. When Jomac speaks, he will never fail to make you laugh with his ridiculousness.

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B

orn Jose Miguel Alfonso Conty on March 19, 1994 to Alfonso Ezekiel Conty and Milarosa Miguela Conty at Manila Doctors’ Hospital, this member was ecstatic when he found out that he would become featured member for the month of August. “I really love the Filipino language, kasi diba, not all people gusto nila ng Filipino,” Jomac explains when asked if he considered himself an Illustrado, “Kaya nga ang daming nagugulat sa kin bakit ko daw

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my seatmates then play games. Tapos when the teacher calls me to answer the question, I go to the board, then yun na.” Even if Jomac was not exactly the model student back then, his academics soared. “I was not an honor nga because of my conduct grades, pero without my conduct grades, I’m ranked siguro [sixth] or [fifth] in the batch [I say then: Grabe, ibang klase]”.

“Cool ka ba nung high school?” I ask him about his experiences during those last four years in Don Bosco Technical Institute. “(Laughing nervously) Yung first two years! I thought I was unique.” Reading the Wall of Secrets from the June issue, Jomac reveals to the world the blunder he performed as his. “Na-principal ako. Nagpakopya ako sa kaklase ko then, nung papunta pa kami sa principal’s office, gumawa kami ng plano kung paano lokohin yung principal. Eh nung kinausap na kami, nahuli rin kami!” And that ended Jomac’s career of being cool in High School. This guy graduated top ten of his batch.

A NEW BEGINNING

kinuha Fil 40, Pan Pil, Socio—Sabi ko, ‘Bakit, mahal ko ang Pilipino’!”

“Kasi nga yung magulang ko nagtatrabaho sa PAL dati, kaya may free tickets kami,” recalls Jomac of his childhood, “I’ve been to Australia, to Singapore, to the States numerous times [At which I say “Yabang…”]. Sobrang colorful ng childhood ko!” A welltraveled child from early on, he learned much from his excursions into foreign lands. “I learned how to deal with all kinds of people. Like for example, kung

mga foreigner, dapat medyo timid ka lang.” Seeing the world beyond the borders of the Philippines, Jomac takes the moniker of Illustrado exactly as how the older generations had it.

ORIGINS

Of course, as with any Illustrado, education is an important thing in life.

Asked about his primary schooling experience, “Yung excels in acads, pero sobrang delinquent. Kunwari when I get the lesson na, I always talk with

“When you first started college, how did you feel?” Jomac loses his jolly countenance so suddenly when asked that question. “Honestly, I thought that it would uplift me… Akala ko magiging super angat ako. Ako lang kasi yung nasa family ko na naka-puntang UP. Kaso hindi, narealize ko na ordinary person lang ako—there’s always someone better than you. Narealize ko rin na ano, sobrang sad ako nung first week of UP.” He was absolutely friendless during the Freshman Welcoming Assembly because his friends all went to different universities. A sad Jomac would be hard to imagine, but it was true. His grades during that first semester were not so good, as he put it. He also then realized, as the organization fair slipped by, that his block, E1, became bifurcated. It was divided into the Ecosoc applicants and the non-Ecosoc applicants. “I felt so alone.”

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ECHOES ALONG DA RILES Sila lang naman ang pasahero

INTEGRATION

Seeing his blockmates happy with Ecosoc, he then decided to apply the next semester, the Outbreak Semester to have new friends. “Bago ako sumali, wala akong ginagawa sa buhay ko.

Nakatunga-nga lang ako sa canteen, always reading books, always reading powerpoints, laging nagna-9gag,” he describes his life before joining, “Ecosoc could be an outlet for [my], sige na nga, talents.” At first, he didn’t feel like he belonged in Ecosoc, which is ironic because imagining an Ecosoc without Jomac would be a daunting task. “Nung applicant rin ako, lagi kong hinihintay si Pao Aguila kasi wala akong friends doon habang nagtatambay.” However, this soon faded away when he got into his first commeet in Finance under Jess Bodo. He also then realized that he loved the organization when he interned for Task Force Team Party. “I had high hopes back then! The TF Bingo, I sold thirty-eight tickets!

We were only required to sell 10! Then for Rager, I sold 15-20 tickets!” Proof of that should be in how the stories about Rager cannot be completed 48 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

“

"Nung applicant rin ako, lagi kong hinihintay si Pao Aguila kasi wala akong friends doon habang nagtatambay."

without a mention of Jomac’s numerous friends at the event.

Even if his passion was lessened for Ecosoc following Rager’s failure, it was not for long because he became a Vice-Chair for Finance the semester after. “I realized that I could do so much more for Ecosoc if I became active in Finance, so I applied for VC. Fortunately, I was taken.” Under Jess Bodo’s last semester as Treasurer, Jomac was put in charge of small-scale sales, such as the Stik-O sales and the aforementioned Bake Day Wednesday. Though in charge of that, Jomac also worked with his colleague Brian Cruz, also then a Vice-Chairperson for Finance, for Foodgasm as an External Relations director. “[For the] next sem, I realized that Finance wasn’t my true calling. I realized that my jolliness and hyperactiveness [sic] can be transferred to Memcom!” He first told his Chairperson about his decision to transfer to the Membership committee, who supported his decision. “Ito, totoo to, ginawa kong second choice ko si Anon [in the Vice-Chairperson application] tapos

FEATURES TOURIST Di na nahiya si Jomac sa suot niya

tinanong ni Anon si Brian, ‘Seryoso ba to si Jomac?’ sabi naman ni Brian, ‘Pare, seryoso yang si Jomac.’ Ayun!”

He says he really loves his job with the applicants. “Nakikita mo yung applicants, sobrang awkward at first.

Para sa ‘kin, what makes me really happy is to see the applicants become active in Ecosoc,” he gleefully confesses, “For example, si Zo. At first, nung nakita ko, saktong app lang. Pero ngayon, I see his potential. Ayun, nagiging happy ako dahil nagaactive ang mga apps.”

But the biggest reason why Jomac

is where he is now is his experience with Team PRA 2.0, his guardian-ward family during his Second Year, First Semester. “Yun talaga yung naginspire sa kin para maging memcom for the apps. At first, ayaw ko talaga maging guardian, pero Carlo approached me.

Then ‘Tara, game!’” Jomac turns serious for a while, “For me, seeing my wards becoming active in Ecosoc, like Rich becoming a VC, si Jus palaging member of the month, si Telle becoming a VC of Liai, si Partosa lagi kong nakikitang active sa MBA, at si Vito being… Vito

(laughs). It really makes me happy to see them that active.”

From a leader in delinquency to a loner in college, Jomac Conty, a well-travelled man who loves Filipino attributes himself having the time of his life in college to Ecosoc. “Because of Ecosoc, naging extrovert ako. I can always talk to them. I can always make them smile.” And no doubt, he will continue to make us smile in the coming moments we will still have with him.

Jomac Conty was a Most Outstanding Member during the Barrio semester.

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PAG-IBIG Dito yun nagsisimula. Yihee.

ECHOES

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ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 51

ECHOES

“MAGALING KA BA MAG-ENGLISH?” HE LOOKS PERPLEXED FOR A BRIEF MOMENT, THEN he says “Try me.” We burst into laughter. Bryan Borlongan, who was also present, laughs boisterously. “Nagulat ako, tapos pinag-isipan ko yung theme. Yun pala August.

Sabi ko ‘bagay ako sa buwan ng wika’,” recalling how he felt when he found out that he would be a featured member for August. “Ang Ilustrado kasi, parang enlightened, hindi ba? Eh parang ‘di naman ako enlightened eh. Kung enlightened ako de dapat matalino. Pero saktong enlightened lang,” is how we began with the interview, when I asked him if he considered himself an Illustrado.

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FEATURES MASTER OF THE GAME Ang kanyang palasyo

LEARNING TO BE:

MIKE SAULO

A

former Sports Vice-Chair and currently a Task Force Logisitics officer, Mike Saulo was born on September 29, 1994 in Makati Medical Center to Marichu Saulo and Alberto Saulo Jr. “Eh ikaw, di ka ba the Third?” I ask Mike regarding his name, and he says, “Hindi, pero Junior rin ako, kasi third year ako (laughs).” I tell him how corny he is, then proceed to talking about his birthday. “Oo nga eh, kaya sobrang natuwa ako na September is Ecosoc Month, kasi para talagang celebration.” Now, Mike Saulo, former protégé of Tambay King Paul Ugalde is a regular fixture in Ecosoc. He’s present in all the events, no

matter how far he lives, and he always takes time to involve himself in the activities of the organization.

“Di naman ako ganito nung high school at elementary eh,” Mike muses regarding his life now with Ecosoc, “Ang dami kong natutunan sa Ecosoc. Naisip ko kasi gusto kong tumulong sa mga ganyan ganyan—nagagawa ko na sa Ecosoc, sa CDC. Tapos gusto ko ring tumulong mag-organize ng mga events, nagagawa ko ‘to sa Ecosoc. Basta parang… ang laki ng role niya sa ‘kin.” Mike confesses that Ecosoc probably has the biggest influence on his life at the moment. Everything that he does now is tinged with Ecosoc. Heck, he spends so ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 53

ECHOES

COUTURE Pwede nang maging model ang mga to

much time on the road just to enjoy Ecosoc’s activities, since he lives in Cavite.

A former Most Outstanding Applicant and a candidate for Most Outstanding Member last semester, Mike is the exception to the “rule” that MOAs become inactive immediately after they are awarded. Though at the beginning of his application, excellence was not a thrust he wanted to claim. “Sa umpisa talaga, gusto ko lang pumasa. Tapos sa kalagitnaan ng app process, na-realize ko na ang saya pala dito. Kahit papaano, magiging active ako sa Ecosoc. Di na ako sasali ng ibang org kasi parang nagenjoy talaga sa Ecosoc. Naisip ko na kasi dati na pagdating ko sa UP Diliman, magiging active ako sa org kasi naman dati, panay acads lang ako.”

CAVITE

Back before Mike became acquainted with the UP Economics Society and the University of the Philippines Diliman, he was a very invisible person when it came to co-curricular activities.

“Naaalala ko nung nasa grade school ako, wala lang akong ginawa kung di magaral,” Mike recounts with much gusto, “Medyo bobo ko nga dati eh kasi ayaw ko maging valedictorian. Kasi baka magspeech ako! So ang ginagawa ko, kahit alam ko yung mga sagot sa exam, minamali ko para lang di ako maging valedictorian.” Everyone then in school knew Mike as the academics-focused guy. Even his parents also saw him as just focused on Academics. “Noong bata ako, masaya yung childhood ko.

Di na ako kailangan magpaalaam sa magulang ko kung aalis ako ng bahay.

Medyo unrestrained ako nung bata (I say then, “Hayop ka ba dati?”) Oo, di ako kinulong. Lalabas lang ako ng bahay tapos yun na yun.”

His reputation for being focused on academics continued on in high school, although that was not what he would just be known for. “Diba yung magulang ko, alam nilang panay academics lang ako. Pero di nila alam na pagkatapos ng school, nagcocomputer na ako. Laging 54 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

nag-dodota. Tumatambay sa bahay ng walang mangyayari sa buhay ko.” kaklase.” Although he would begin When Mike hit the college circuit, high school solely known as the serious he started out first as a BS Economics acads guy (“May kumopya sa akin nung student in the Los Baños campus of the first year tapos galit na galit ako kasi premiere state university. “Sobrang ayaw kong may nangongopya sa kin”), boring ng buhay ko noon. Wala lang he later on found his jolly side. I ask akong ginawa kundi ‘klase-dorm, klasehim why he loosened up and he tells dorm, kain’.” Because of how unsatisfied me, “Wala, kasi narealize ko na walang he was with his life in Los Baños, he mangyayari kung uulitin ko lang yung made sure to get high grades in order to ginagawa ko. Kung tahimik lang ako, be able to shift into the Diliman Campus.

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GRAND TRAD? Parang nawala si Mike papuntang GT shoot

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CONVERSATION Mabuti di naisip ng tao na may topak kayo dahil sa suot niyo

56 â&#x20AC;˘ AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

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“Kilala ko na kasi yung UP Ecosoc (Me: “Paano mo active in an organization was Mike’s plan when he got to UP nakilala?”). Nakita ko kasi yung sign sa labas ng tambayan, Diliman, since he had focused on academics his entire life. yung naka-lagay na ‘UP Economics Society’ tapos tiningnan “Para sa kin, three years lang ako sa Ecosoc. Compared to 15 ko rin yung tambayan niyo. Akala ko yung buong kwarto, years of academics, sobrang once in a lifetime chance lang ito. sa Ecosoc kaya inisip ko ‘Wow, ang laki ng tambayan nila. Pagkatapos ng college rin, magtatrabaho na rin ako so baka Sasalihin ko nga ‘to’.” He tells me that when it was Shiftee walang time.”

Orientation, he already knew which organization to join. And What Mike is to all of us is the quintessential tale of a of course, that was the UP Economics Society. model Ecosocer. He even has a dictionary now, Mike’s English Dictionary, Unabridged: Third Edition. Almost everyone applies to the organization thinking, “Hey, I’ll just pass it so I MIKE’S ENGLISH DICTIONARY “Ngayon, ayaw ko na talaga makarinig ng negative tungkol can have an org” but then one way or another, we fall in love sa Ecosoc,” Mike tells me regarding his situation now, “Kasi with the it. You help the organization grow, and you let it help talagang napa-mahal ko yung Ecosoc noong September you grow, just like in the case of Mike. Because inside every last year. Narealize ko na sobrang ibang klase ang org na to. active member in Ecosoc is a Mike Saulo waiting to happen.

Mike was the Most Outstanding Applicant of his batch and Tapos ngayon, ang dami na niyang ginawa para sa kin.” Being loves fried chicken and English.

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WORDS &

BY JUDE

HERE COMES

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& PHOTOS GERON

S THE MUSIK

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 59

ECHOES

LOGISTICS

W

CREATIVES

e like to make a lot of noise. Some of it is inspiring, such as in every committee cheer in every Genmeet, or the atmosphere of a tambayan full of loud voices and laughter. We hear words of praise for our posters and videos, for settling deals with elusive sponsors, for filling our venues with attendees and a whole lot more. But, of course, not every mark we leave on the Society's hypothetical history book is a positive one, as we've had a fair share of experiences we'd rather bury far away beneath some rock formation with a name unpronounceable.

These events have all made their way through many pairs of listening ears, with some of those at the ends of good and bad making it to print courtesy of various Echoes contributors.

Either way, these are what comprise a big chunk of our daily conversations.

But between the extremes of achievements beyond expectations and utter failures is a point of stability. Amidst the first semester noise, there is a set of pleasant notes readying to take over once again. There will be Musik. And a group of 10 directors, with both varying personalities and levels of experience spanning over numerous applicant batches are now in full command of making it happen, as heads of Task Force.

Between them is their own point of stability, of synergy, and their preparations for this upcoming 8th installment of Musikapella, Ecosoc's annual high school chorale competition, are now in full swing.

Much is expected each year out of Task Force, being the sole committee that provides for the Economics Society Scholarship Fund, or ESSF, which is arguably the biggest priority for this socio-civic organization. And with the often talked about blows the ESSF has sustained over the past couple of years, there continues to be an uphill challenge for the maintenance 60 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

CORPORATE RELATIONS and expansion of the Fund.

Achieving that surely is easier said and done, given the individual problems each director faces with his or her own committee. This is in spite of the notion that Musikapella is a “stable” event. “Organizing Musikapella has never been easy,” says Ecosoc Vice President and Task Force Chairperson Bea Bayudan. “Sumusugal ka talaga sa event na 'to kahit sabihin mo mang stable event siya. You're so dependent on so many external factors that you can't do this event without possessing sheer faith.” Aside from the many challenges inherent in committee functions, there are things that sometimes are just out of one's control. School Relations Director Shanica Sollegue mentions, for one, the possibility of participating schools suddenly backing out, as has happened in the past.

There are also sometimes conflicts with the very date and schedule of the event, as mentioned by Logistics Director Botan Belen, among other things. There is constant pressure to adapt to each situation that presents itself and remain unfazed despite some of the risks actions may involve.

These constraints, however, do not keep the team from aiming to achieve not just the same level of success of previous years, but for even further levels. TF Co-Chairperson Chello Caliwan says, “This year, our goal is to have higher profits, a full house, 15 participating schools, [a] smoother program flow, more food concessionaires, [a] better gallery, reserved seating system... the list goes on really.” Basically, the aim, according to her, is to improve on the previous year's shortcomings and build on their positives.

And the central motivation, the common denominator for constant improvement of succeeding Musikapellas, as the directors agree on, is working for the scholars, the direct benefactors of the ESSF. There are other sources cited as motiva-

FEATURES

PROGRAMS

SALES

tion, such as inspiration from former leaders of Ecosoc, the idea of making concrete contributions to the org and being part of a close community, but it is assisting students through their education financially is at the heart of each fundraiser. It was fairly recently when the list of new scholars for this year (since the previous ones had all graduated already) was announced, and from 4 scholars total last year, the number is now 7, much to the delight of the org as a whole (Botan hap-

MEDIA RELATIONS & PROMO

THE CO-CHAIR

SCHOOL RELATIONS pens to be one of this year's guardians).

For anyone with aspirations of being a leader of Task Force, the scholars must be a central point of motivation, just as service is one of the key tenets of the organization as a whole, among all the directors. Beyond that, it may be hard to find things that are exactly common among them. As was mentioned, the heads began their tenures at Task Force at different periods of time. You have some long time members of

FINANCE ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 â&#x20AC;˘ 61

ECHOES THE VICE-PRESIDENT Ang dilim

Ecosoc who have just gotten to know new members, and relatively new members who have only been serving the org officially for a semester - not a long time at all. Finance Director Brian Cruz admits, “We aren't really the most super experienced group of directors.” But, he adds that it's a source of pressure and encouragement to prove any doubters of their abilities wrong, that it is no setback to achieving this year's big goals.

Fiesta App and now current Creatives Director Dea Villarosa, no stranger to big promotions work (fresh off making the bulk of last semester's Ecosoc Cup poster) takes these, and the very challenge of creating publicity materials head on. In fact, according to her, it's part of what she loves out of Creatives work. It's the idea of making a big first impression, an edge higher over any competitors, that she wants to live up to.

And she is all praises and confidence for her Creatives team.

All the other directors hold their teams as well with high regard, speak62 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

ing with great gratitude both about how hard working they all have been, and how generally great it has been working with them. They express this same attitude towards each other as directors.

“We’re just always crazy,” says Programs Director Patty Bucao. “I think one thing we look forward to every meeting besides seeing each other is that something funny will happen.” There is a lot of energy between the whole team, old and new members alike. Shanica is happy to see old members still stepping up to the challenge of heavy work in Task Force, and describes the whole team as sabaw, as did many of the other directors. Beyond all the effort they put in every week is an entire committee of people having a good time and getting to enjoy each other's company.

It is clear that, despite having a long way to go and having no time to give any less effort, we have a determined group of people heading the pack for both the team behind this year's scholarship fundraiser, and the overall sustainability of

the ESSF. We have a group that knows and acknowledges their diversity, and embraces it. They may be faced with different schedules and colleges, commitments to school and other extracurriculars, and their own problems inherent in their roles, but it is also clear that they won't be bolting or crumbling in any amount of pressure, any time soon. With Sales Director Ramm Advincula, Corporate Relations Director Gelo Atienza, and Media Relations and Promotions Director Miguel Andres completing the Board of Directors, Task Force is once again in a position to make a big event, and big funds. They are now the 8th board, ready to further establish Musikapella as a highly awaited chorale event. With September 28 a little more than a month away, it is only a matter of time before the stage is set once more and the very best high school choirs will bring with them, once again, the Musik.

Jude Geron is the Creatives Editor of this publication and the former Photos Editor. He enjoys vectoring as a hobby.

FEATURES

PLATOON 55 APP STATS

BY MICAELA QUE

JUNE 29, 2013. THAT WAS THE DAY WE WENT FROM BEING HYPERACTIVE WEIRDOS TO BECOMING PLATOON 55.

We all entered with our own set of ideas, skills and talents. As the semester nears to a close, we look back at our journey together as an app batch. Together, we fought our way through the darkness (and I mean this literally because we were blindfolded) and found the light. Yes, we may have lost a couple friends along the way. Yes, we may have had our fair share of failures but all of that has lead up to now. A platoon is the smallest, most basic unit of the military; but it is also the most important. If a platoon is unable to function as one unit, everything else comes crumbling down. But Platoon 55 isn’t just a group of teenagers who work well with one another. We’re unique individuals who always seem to have something up our sleeves or perhaps, a couple skeletons in the closet.

But regardless of these differences, we are family. We are Platoon 55.

APP CRUSH (MALE)

SEXUAL ORIENTATION:

28

28

STRAIGHT GIRL

2

2

STRAIGHT GUY

REFUSES TO BOW DOWN TO THE SYSTEM

GIO PEREZ

GIO PEREZ

3

3

6

7

ALFONSO ROCES

RAFFY ARCILLA

NICO DE LA PAZ

HONORABLE HOTTIES: ADO CRUZ, J.J. SALLIMAN, JP MONJE, MARTIN CONSING, GINO GERODIAS

APP CRUSH (FEMALE) 1

2

2

BISEXUAL

HALAMAN

4

GAY

MEM CRUSH (MALE): 6

6

JUDE GERON

3

BIANCA ORTIZ

3

3

ARIS DACANAY

PAOLO ANONUEVO

4 BOTAN BELEN

HONORABLE HOTTIES: GJ AGREGADO, BOZ DIGAY, JOMAC CONTY< LANCE LIM, LYON LEUS, ADRIEL ANRGUELES, MARK MANGUERRA, JOSH MADARANG, TIMMY JACOB, MIGUEL ANDRES

MEM CRUSH (FEMALE)

3 ANNIKA GO

NIKUO TAI

2

2 BEA LEJANO

3 MIX QUE

2

3 CARA IGNACIO

2

FATI DE PANO PEACHES TENORIO GENEBE DY

HONORABLE HOTTIES: EMIRA GUINGON, INA MEDINA, SEL YAO, JEMIMAH MANATLAO

WHAT'S THE FARTHEST YOU'VE EVER GONE? 43 HUG

10

5

3

3

CARA LATINAZO

JUS NUQUE

KLAUD MOREDO

AYI DAVE

HONORABLE HOTTIES: CEL HILARIO, CYVIL VILORIA, MAAN ARIATE, MONINA SANCHEZ, CARMEL BAQUILOD, LARA RAPANAN

6

1ST BASE

4 2ND BASE 6 3RD BASE 6

HOMERUN *65 out of 75 applicants answered this survey

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 63

ECHOES

THE PYTHON’S PIT VOL 2: WHAT MAKES AN ECOSOC LADY BEAUTIFUL? T HERE ARE SOME DAYS WHEN I FEEL LIKE JOSÉ RIZAL TRAVELING THE WORLD WHERE I

encounter women of all exquisite types and tastes. But now I realize I don't need to do that any longer because the women of the highest caliber are nowhere else but actually close to home - in the University of the Philippines. And, to be even more specific, there have been no other special set of Filipina (we need to stick to theme, ayt?) women I have met like those from the girls of UP Economics Society.

There's just something beautiful about the ladies of Ecosoc: something that makes them beautiful in a unique way. (Word of caution: I'm not saying all the other non-Ecosoc ladies don't have the same traits and I'm not saying every Ecosoc girl is alike since everyone also is uniquely beautiful in their own way) - but there are some things that are true for the most part.

INTELLIGENT

SOCIABLE

This is something I can actually say is true for all Iskas but I’ll still mention it. It's I think it is fairly safe to say it is most likely you were in the top 20% of your batch back in high school and you beat impossible to join Ecosoc without being out tens of thousands of contenders in the UPCAT just to study here but not only that, at least a people person to some degree you're also taking one of the hardest courses offered in the university - Economics (if you’re an introvert, there’s always both with or without the B (or maybe Business Administration, you traitor!). You Echoes). Or maybe you joined because know very well how to both balance studies and your work here in Ecosoc. Also, if you really are one. First of all, one of you want to see even more evidence for this, go to the library and find the really your first tasks in order to enter this intelligent girls of the Ecosoc Academics committee studying there. organization was to get the names of at least 100-something people. Of course, WHY IS IT BEAUTIFUL? you’d need all the courage and to do all that approaching or at least the charm The truth is most guys find intelligence a turn-on – it’s a plus. Yeah sure, in the to make whoever’s signing forget you short run we like girls because they’re “physically attractive” but in the long run don’t really know their names. And of intelligence (and also personality) matters more. course, you wouldn’t also last in the Tambayan if you didn’t know how to EXAMPLE IN ECOSOC – FLORA PALABRICA socialize with your fellow co-apps or the mems. And, as you become a member, you may have to use your people skills in contacting sponsors, alumni, other orgs, etc. Not only that, you’re in also for the numerous events happening in Ecosoc and you enjoy them because you’re in the company of a lot of people.

University, Oblation, La Salle and everything else scholar who maintains high grades and her cool despite a whole load of extra work such as being a Vice Chair.

64 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

FEATURES WHY IS IT BEAUTIFUL?

EXAMPLE IN ECOSOC – KRISTINA VIRAY

Sociability can mean being pleasant and friendly. Of course, that beats whatever is the opposite of that.

EXAMPLE IN ECOSOC JUSTINE NUQUE

The hair, the dress, the handbag – you can tell she has style.

ANSWERS TO THE CALL OF SERVICE Med missions, GK build, Ecosoc Bottle thingymajigy – you’re only required 4 but even so, you push the extra mile to help serve the community. You joined (hopefully) Ecosoc also to bring a change in this world and you’re also doing it through Ecosoc.

You’re also on the verge of becoming Angelina Jolie and adopting a child.

Former 1st year batch rep, Media & WHY IS IT BEAUTIFUL? Publicity SE Director and Ecosocer who’s very approachable, chatty and “knows” a lot of stuff about people. Who wouldn’t fall for a kind-hearted girl who spends her time helping out other WHATTHEFRICK? people?

STYLISH

EXAMPLE IN ECOSOC – MAAN ARIATE

If I were to generalize the whole female Ecosoc membership, I’d have to say they put in an extra effort in what they wear (e.g. Themed Thursdays, but it doesn’t really matter what day). It doesn’t mean they’re materialistic though; it just means that they’re just really good when it comes to color coordination and matching their belts to their shoes. They really give some amount of effort to look You'll see this kind soul a lot of times packing up some medicines for med missions as presentable as possible. (JSEC people or doing something CDC-related. (You can tell she’ll be the next Oprah and be setwouldn’t notice they’re not really JSECting up schools in the future.) ers, no offense to my Atenean friends)

WHY IS IT BEAUTIFUL? Actually, most guys are blind/oblivious to fashion yet still, seeing that you put effort or at least care about how you look is something attractive.

FINAL WORDS TO GUYS See, guys, why look anywhere else?

FINAL WORDS TO GIRLS Listen to “You’re beautiful” by James Blunt. Even though it’s one of the most obnoxious songs in history, it’s true.

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 65

ECHOES

MADAM ARTING’S

NEW FILIPINO SUPERSTITIONS

THE MIND OF THE FILIPINO PEOPLE KNOWS NO LIMITS. WE HAVE SPAWNED THE

first Apprentice Asia winner, made musical masterpieces using a leaf, and installed public urinals along major highways. And best (worst?) of all, this is the country where cheese on the top bun of a sandwich is marketable! With all these innovations coming from a small country densely populated with highly creative people, it would be selfish of me to leave out the other, grim beliefs generated from the opposite side of cranium. I thus present to you Madam Arting’s New Filipino Superstitions!

1. NOT TAKING A PICTURE OF YOUR FOOD BEFORE CONSUMPTION WILL GIVE YOU INDIGESTION The dawning of the technological age in our country has shown the ingenuity of budding artists at best, and questioned their IQ at worst.

2. LIKING AND SHARING POSTS BY “CHARITIES” WILL MAGICALLY CONTRIBUTE TO THEIR NOBLE CAUSES Wanna find a missing child? Two clicks will bring her one step closer to home! Do you pity that hungry child in Africa? Why send some of your own money when you can send her some loving!

3. TWEETING “PATAMA” TWEETS IS NOT GOOD THERAPY. Two words: Bruno Santos.

4. TWEETING YOUR TO-DO LIST WILL MAKE YOU MORE PRODUCTIVE Mind over matter.

5. TAKING “SELFIES” DRAINS AWAY YOUR BEAUTY (IF EVER YOU HAVE) AND BRAINS (IF EVER YOU HAVE) SLOWLY The age-old saying that pictures contain fragments of your soul may be true after all.

Corollary: Making a collage out of them multiplies the effect

66 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

FEATURES

6. WEARING UNDERWEAR/BOTTOMS WITH YOUR RIGHT LEG IN FIRST LEADS TO A LONGER LIFE We all know left-handed people were doomed to begin with.

7. SHAVING/WAXING ON A MONDAY WILL LEAD TO FASTER, MORE RAPID HAIR GROWTH Quick, Roman mythology nerds, Monday is named after which Roman goddess? Luna! Do you know what Luna’s also known for? A deity for agriculture. Watch your barren forests grow!

8. COUNT THE NUMBER OF FRIES GIVEN TO YOU WHENEVER YOU ORDER IN YOUR FAVOURITE FASTFOOD CHAIN. IS IT A PERFECT SQUARE NUMBER? IF NOT, WATCH WHAT YOU EAT FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE. A perfect number can be divided into smaller numbers, which is a sign that your calorie intake can also be easily broken down. Not a perfect square number? Good luck. Or maybe stay away from fries. Or fastfood in general.

9. DISCUSSING THE ANSWERS RIGHT AFTER AN EXAM WILL MAGICALLY IMPROVE YOUR GRADES Would work best if time-travel was already invented

10. 12:12 IS THE NEW 11:11 People believe in second chances. Missed 11:11 by a minute? Just wait one more hour!

11. DRINKING BEVERAGES LIKE SMART-C WILL CURE YOU OF THE COMMON COLD It is believed to be a viable substitute for rest, water, and real vitamins. It is fully-loaded with vitamin C!

12. BEFORE TAKING A TEST, DO SOME FULL-BODY WORKOUTS When your body is exhausted, your brain tries to compensate for the lack of energy, thus improving brain activity.

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 67

ECHOES

THE INSECURITIES OF A MORENA

"RACISM SPRINGS FROM THE LIFE THAT SOME HUMAN BEINGS ARE LESS THAN FULLY HUMAN. It's a self-centered

BY OLIVIA SOLOMON

falsehoodthe corrupts our minds into believing we are right to treat others as we would not want to be treated” – Alveda King

I

was once called "mocha" by a black man.

My cousins and I were part of the studio audience for one of the episodes of “The Suite Life On Deck” and the black man also happened to be the host/audience nanny for the day. He was calling out some random people from the audience and he called out, “How about some,” and then pointed at me, “mocha?”

Kitchen Skin to Table Skin That was probably the point in my life when I realized that I was as colored as an ugly brown crayon to all the other crayons in the box. For the longest time, I tried to convince myself that me being morena wasn’t such a big deal even if I grew to know that it actually was.

My skin tone is synonymous to kitchen items. I am of different shades of coffee (probably, latte with dark brown sugar), caramel, cinnamon, milk chocolate, honey, and of course, mocha. People with skin like mine are described in books to have olive-skin. People like Katniss Everdeen or some Arabian princess.

In one of my pursuits in writing, I researched how to appropriately describe “morena” people in a beautiful way and apparently, my skin can also be called golden, mahogany, sienna, ochre, umber, sepia, chestnut, and smoldering wood.

I am not a food item anymore, I have become a table and a photography filter. Still, I was in a rut as to how to describe my skin tone in a better way or at least make it sound as beautiful as alabaster or milky white – both of which, obviously, I am not.

Bullies I have never had the chance to point out the specific part in my childhood life when I realized that Philippine society regarded my skin tone (and me in general) as a not-so special thing.

68 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

Growing up, I was called, "negra," by schoolyard bullies. Back then, I didn’t have my hair permed yet and I wore a permanent ponytail so that meant that I was negra by virtue of my skin tone. I was called "adobo" in third grade because my skin was apparently the toyo and the un-beauty mark (read: mole) on my face was the pepper. Adobo.

And it stuck. I was a coveted tan-skinned girl to our American missionary friends but I was also the ugly mud-skinned girl to my countrymen. Standard.

It didn't help that media slammed doors on my skin tone.

Everyone who was white was instantly deemed beautiful but people like me have to buy unholy amounts of Pond's or whatever goddamned whitening product they were brainwashing us with.

I grew up seeing commercials of these white women telling me that the only way I could be beautiful was if my skin tone was not that of the earth but of milk, of marble, of a translucent beauty of an Asian goddess. They told me that I could never be beautiful in my homeland.

In my teenage years, I tried to convince myself that if I keep telling myself that people don’t look at me, I would be okay. I would be invisible especially in the dark, a place where I feel I would naturally belong in. The schoolyard bullies stopped teasing me once they found out that I had a backbone and I PHOTOS BY TUMBLR

FEATURES

ignored them and that I was actually a decent human being and not ugly scum on the soles of their nicely polished school shoes. But of course, the universe would like to remind me of the injustices of this world and it happened when I was taking tennis lessons during the summer of my second year in high school.

There was a boy there whose skin was as white as half-andhalf milk and his hair was copper. He was one the beautiful people that society loved. I did not know what I did but one day, he called out, “Negra!!!!!” to me. Like that was my name, like that was the only thing that he could call me, like it was the only thing I could ever be. I think I got sad that day because being a teenager and being morena are two very difficult things.

I only got to tell my mother about this weeks after. She nestled me in the nook of her shoulder while I told her that a boy called me, “negra,” and that I know I was ugly and I just wished people didn’t say it out loud. She silenced me in the way mothers do by cradling me closer and told me that I was beautiful. I tried to nod because of course she would be the only person to call me beautiful because I was her daughter, her own flesh and blood. Now, she would still remind me once in awhile that I am beautiful and I would still try to nod every time even if I know it would take years for me to understand that “beautiful” is something that I could be.

No face, no place nowhere I am eighteen now and I always wonder if there is something wrong with the mirrors in our house and in the mirrors that I look at. I wonder what kind of faces the mirrors reflect and what people see in them because when I look at the mirror all I see is mud, scum, and ugly.

My grandmother and her old lady friends would keep

“

“I know it would take years for me to understand that “beautiful” is something that I could be." pointing out that I looked like a certain Ms. Universe contestant and I would laugh because they probably meant Ms. Angola and not Shamcey Supsup or Miriam Quiambao. As if my face would even measure to that amount of beauty.

The irony is that there is no place in this world of beauty for my face. I am too light-skinned to be beautiful in Africa or some Polynesian island. I am too dark to be considered beautiful by my white-skinned countrymen. I will forever be the “exotic” oddity that white people ogle at when we go to America and

whine, "You Asians are so lucky that you don't have to work so hard for a tan." They're right. I didn’t have to work hard for my tan, I was born with it. My country has cursed me with it.

I was supposed to embody the unadulterated gene pool of our ancestors: skin permanently kissed by the hot rays of the sun, skin warm enough to warm the starving stomachs of those in the slums, skin burning with the passion of our fathers and mothers who wanted to spell, "freedom," with their bodies. In turn, I got to spell "ridicule," "negra," and "panget," with my skin.

I would probably move to a Western country that would at least appreciate the caramel, the mocha, the sun-kissed, the negra, the panget in me but there is no place for me because I am just a girl whose skin screams that she is from a third-world country. I am just a girl whose skin screams the word “ugly”.

There is no place for me and my skin.

Dear reader, I do not want your pity. All I want you to do is to look at your skin and I hope yours can spell “beauty.” I hope yours has helped you to see beyond the skin of the people around you, beyond what you think is “beauty.” I hope your skin can spell “Filipina” or “Filipino” because that is what we all are and isn’t that, in itself, “beauty”?

My fingers aren’t pointed at anyone. Not to Philippine society nor to the school yard bullies nor to the heavens. They are touching the earth and I think it’s quite beautiful how my skin blends well with it, how my skin blends well with the ground we walk on, the ground we stand up on and call home.

Olivia Solomon is a Pulse Member and currently the Culture editor of this publication. She enjoys baking snickerdoodles and drinking horchata, like the song Horchata.

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 69

ECHOES

BAKIT ANG HIRAP MAG-TAGALOG? CAMILLE Di ka daw marunong mag-tagalog

WHEN I GOT ACCEPTED INTO THE UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES, I WAS OBVIOUSLY

overjoyed. I was getting into a great school (the best), and I would learn from and be around the smartest minds in the country.

After a while, I would realize a problem that I was soon to have: I have to speak Tagalog with people in UP – and unlike the majority of the Filipino population, or at least the Tagalog-speaking part of it, I find it quite a task to converse in Tagalog. “You’re going to UP? How are you going to talk to people?” a few friends and relatives jokingly asked me the summer before my first semester.

Although they all said it jokingly, I knew I was going to have a real problem. Everyone who has talked to me knows I prefer speaking English over Tagalog (although contrary to popular belief, I can speak and understand it – but only to a certain extent of course).

“Why,” almost everyone asks “Bakit hindi ka nagtatagalog?” Though my main reason for not speaking Tagalog is because I didn’t grow up speaking and practicing it, my reply now would be “Because it’s so m ­ a­-difficult” (alright, screw any of you if for a second you thought I was that incompetent at Tagalog). Mahirap magtagalog at mayroong madaming dahilan – screw it – it’s difficult to speak Tagalog and there are several reasons why it remains quite a strenuous task to learn how to speak it properly – how was I ever going to finish that sentence in Tagalog. by Timmy Jacob 70 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

FEATURES ALAM NIYO BA Mas magaling nga siya sa kin eh

Being in a position where I’m somewhat forced to learn to better my Tagalog conversation skills, I find several hindrances to this. The first difficulty would be not knowing when an English word has a Tagalog translation. To me, it seems that there’s too many words in Tagalog to learn if I’m only starting now, and people talking in Tag-lish kind of proves it. Even frequent Tagalog speakers insert English words into their own sentences. If my observations are correct, one example would be people preferring to say “Paki-on nga yung electric fan,” rather than say “Pakibukas nga yung bentilador” (as I typed that out, I was actually even confused if “turn on” translated to “bukas”). Even a simple English word like “dress” is more commonly used in the sentence “Magsusuot ako ng dress,” in place of its Tagalog counterpart “bistida”. The word “rainbow” is more commonly used than “bahaghari.” See? I have honestly never heard anyone say, “Pagtapos ng ulan, makakakita ka ng bahaghari.”

Let’s say I got past learning how to write, read and understand these numerous deep Tagalog words – I still have to learn how to pronounce them.

Saying these words can get quite difficult and tongue twisting. Syllables repeat several times and the placing of the emphases can get confusing.

“Bababa ba?”

“Oo! Bababa!”

A random string of repeated syllables can already form a short conversation, and the changes in emphases of

syllables changes the words. The previous sentence wasn’t really a good of example of how difficult pronunciation can be, but think of the popular word “nakakapagpabagabag”. When a single word is enough to be a whole tonguetwister, I think that’s pretty sufficient proof that a language is pretty difficult to speak.

The last reason that I personally find quite a hindrance is the fact that people have been speaking Tagalog for majority of their lives seem to be very judgmental of those who do not speak Tagalog so well, especially in the UP environment. People are definitely more tolerant of those who are terrible at speaking English - even if they speak with horrible diction and a sub-par sense of grammar. When someone slips in Tagalog with wrong pronunciation or accents the wrong syllables, that person must be prepared to be ridiculed – especially if they know that person to be an English speaker. English speakers being the minority in our university, of course, would automatically make them the target of "so conyo naman" jokes. Of

“

If I'm going to be ridiculed for speaking both "nosebleed English" and crappy Tagalog, I'd frankly rather speak English all the time

course the reasoning behind that would be "He's a Filipino! He should know how to speak his own language!" Yes, this is a valid statement, but it certainly doesn't encourage me to practice speaking the language in front of others. If I'm going to be ridiculed for speaking both "nosebleed English" and crappy Tagalog, I'd frankly rather speak English all the time - at least I know I'm doing it right and convince myself that people who make fun of me are just jealous that they can't speak it as well as me. (Forgive the slight arrogance; people tell themselves a lot of things to feel better about themselves). Being embarrassed and ridiculed is a sure way to be discouraged from trying or practicing conversing with others in the language.

It's safe to say that I've probably given up on learning Tagalog. Sure, it's a pleasure to learn new words every once in a while, but I'm not really making a conscious and concrete effort to learn more and get better at the language. I still get to converse and communicate with people anyway when I speak English to them and they reply in Tagalog to me.

Sure, I kind of regret not learning the language when I was younger – I wish my vocabulary was more broad and the word I used the most often wasn't putangina(I'm sure there are better Tagalog words out there), but it's too late now. At this point in my life though, I don't have the energy or will to "master" speaking Tagalog.

Masyadong mahirap, putangina!

Timmy Jacob is the Managing Editor of this Publication. He loves Filipino.

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 71

VICE-NIGHT Look at these group of Seniors, Juniors, and a Freshman app. This is culture in Ecosoc. By SPEV.

CULTURE

72 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

ECHOES ECHOES | AUGUST | JULY 2013 • 73

ECHOES

BRUNO'S CONCEPT MAP

by Timmy Jacob

74 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

CULTURE

LEGEND: IN REAL LIFE

ON FACEBOOK

ON TWITTER

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 75

ECHOES

THE ULTIMATE HARANA MIXTAPE 2K13

by Carmel Baquilod

IN THE AGE OF K-POP, ONE DIRECTION (SQUEALS), EDM AND INDIE-*INSERT MUSIC GEN-

re here*, I still believe nothing beats OPM, most especially OPM love songs. I have heard many times that there is a certain truth felt within Filipino lyrics that can explain why we are considered such hard-core romantics.

A “harana” is the most classic way of expressing one’s true feelings through music. Though today we rarely see a group of boys dressed up in their best barongs and equipped with guitars, haranas still find a way to live on with the help of mixtapes.

And with influences of hip-hop and RNB, OPM love songs became cooler and have most young Filipinos singing along to them.

So boys (and even girls), if you can’t find a way to admit your true feelings to the person you like, fret not because I present to you THE ULTIMATE HARANA MIXTAPE 2K13 that features songs that will surely tug the heartstrings of that special someone.

1) Maghihintay (Kung Para Sa’yo) - LHIRIKOH feat. Jho and Chinito “Maghihintay ako at lahat ay gagawin Paduguin mo man ang puso ko'y dito pa rin Gagawin ko ang lahat kahit gano to kahirap Mapansin mo lang puso kong nagsusumikap” You know by the name of the artist that this guy truly knows his words. The whole song is nothing but honesty that shows how difficult it is for a guy to pursue his intentions but he will go through all the pain of waiting just for his girl.

2) Gayuma – Abra feat. Thyro and Jerika Aguilar

"Hindi kanais-nais pero hulog ka ng langit Nakakaadik kahit puro kuto ka sa anit Kalait-lait pero kahit ubod ka ng pangit Sakin maskaakit-akit ka pa pagnatuto kang mag-ahit Hindi ka man napiling ikaw lang ang kapiling ko Kahit hindi pilitin, ikaw ang pipiliin ko Para kang Rebisco ang sarap ng feeling ko" Abra (aka the Magsambol look-alike) is no doubt the rising prince of Philippine hip-hop today due to this song which topped the MYX Daily Top 10 for weeks. (Yup, I still watch that show. Judge all you want.) A lot of people may wonder why you love someone and even judge your relationship but hey, you know what they say, love is blind. Be careful though when using this song because girls can get pretty sensitive and may take the song the wrong way.

76 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

3) Mas Mahal Mo Pa Ang DOTA – Dino and Ktin “Hindi kailangang magselos pa Hindi naman kita ipagpapalit sa DOTA” Girls are naturally jealous beings. They get “selos” over everything whether it may be other girls, your org, and even your hobbies, such as playing DOTA. But all they need is a little assurance that they are your topmost priority and that nothing can ever change that.

Also, the music video just adds to the emotional impact of the song so you better watch it. (Btw, the song is also available on iTunes.)

4) Simpleng Tao – Gloc 9 "Kahit na wala akong pera Kahit na butas aking bulsa Kahit pa maong ko'y kupas na At kahit na marami d'yang iba Ganito man ako (maniwala ka sana sa akin) Simpleng tao (na ikaw ang lagi kong dalangin) Ang maipagyayabang ko lang sa 'yo (ay ang...)

Pag-ibig ko sa 'yo na 'di magbabago” Gloc 9, undeniably one of OPM’s best with his socially relevant songs, shows off his loverboy side with this one and tells us an important message: When you have nothing else to give, all you have is love and that is more than enough.

CULTURE KILIG SI RICH Hindi ba babae trip mo?

5) Kabet – Gagong Rapper ft. Kyla “It really hurts ang magmahal ng ganito Kung sino pang pinili ko hindi makuha ng buo Hanggang ganun na lang nga kailangan ko tong tanggapin Na sa puso mo meron na ngang ibang umaangkin” Though the track talks of infidelity, it’s still a love song that shows the pain of loving someone who’s with someone else. And even though you’re not together, you will endure that painful truth because you don’t want to let go of him/her. (#sakit) 6) Tiwala – Breezy Boyz ft. Kejs Breezy of Breezy Girlz “Di ko naman sinasadya sanay mapatawad mo at sanay bigyan mo pa ng pagkakataon na makabawi ako sayo at muling maibalik ang tiwala mo yeah.!

Ang tiwala mo muling maibalik ang tiwala mo”

Trust or tiwala is one of the most important things in any relationship. Oftentimes, we fail to keep our promises and it’s normal because no one is perfect. And just like what this song asks for, all we want is forgiveness.

7) I’m in Lov3 (Tagalog Version of Lil Wayne’s How To Love) –Dimpztuh

“Gusto ko lang malaman mo... that you define beautiful you're beautiful yeah...

Gusto ko lang malaman mo... ikaw ang tanging gusto ko” Don’t you just love it when covers are better than the original? Dimpztuh’s rendition of Lil Wayne’s hit doesn’t fail even though it totally changes the context of the song and only uses the original beat.

8) Ang Ganda Mo – Cue C Recommended by : PunongNarra Just Youtube it.

Carmel is a former CDC and Acad VC. Now, she's the Sales Director for NYC. She's also (still) Ecosoc's Darling.

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 77

ECHOES

UPCOMING SUPERHERO MOVIES TO LOOK OUT FOR

by Vito Castaneda , Luigi Montalbo & Miguel Silva

THOR: THE DARK WORLD (NOVEMBER 8, 2013)

Okay so first up in the list is the brave and powerful yet socially awkward god of thunder known as Thor. This movie features recurring characters such as Sif and the Warriors Three, Jane Foster and even Odin himself.

In contrast with the first movie where Thor only saved Jotunheim and a small town in New Mexico, here Thor would be attempting to save the Nine Realms from a mysterious race said to be older than the universe itself.

Of course, saving the Nine Realms isn’t an easy task and this is why Thor would go through great lengths to get all the help he needs, even help from his villain of a brother who almost caused the destruction of Jotunheim, New York, and as mentioned earlier, the small town of New Mexico.

The biggest mystery of this movie however, is why Thor would even bother to bring Jane Foster with him in his battles while a war that threatens the lives of every being in the Nine Realms is going on. Moral support perhaps? Well I guess there’s only one way to find out.

CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE WINTER SOLDIER (APRIL 4, 2014)

Now this is definitely a movie to look out for! The film is said to have depth in terms of how we see our society, particularly our politics.

“This isn’t freedom, this is fear” Following the events of The Avengers, Steven Rogers continues to struggle to keep up with the times, especially since he has to deal with the moral ambiguity in government.

The relationship between Captain America and Black Widow also plays a big part in this film since their characters contrast each others, and no, it is not of the romantic kind. Captain America is one who is idealistic with an iron clad set of principles and has a clear mindset of what is right, which he actively pursues. Black Widow on the other hand, has somewhat of a vague past but it is implied that she has committed various crimes and assassinations under clients who sought to use her skills for their own benefit.

This film will also be featuring a new hero known as the Falcon, who is a crime fighter from Harlem and is a skilled combatant with gear that allows him to fly as well as launch talons from his wings.

Little is revealed about the main villain, the elusive Winter Soldier. However, it is a guarantee that whoever this is, he is definitely a formidable opponent who would be giving Captain America a hard time.

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CULTURE

AMAZING SPIDERMAN 2 (MAY 2, 2014)

In this film, Spiderman starts off as free as a bird or you know, a spider. He’s swinging off buildings, climbing walls, flying, going on top of police cars… you know, whatever your typical over-sized, human-shaped, creepy crawlies would do.

Basically, Spiderman becomes a little cocky. Not for long, though, since he would soon have to deal with two villains in this movie, Rhino, the cranky Russian truck driver turned super strong man in a durable Rhino suit complete with a horn, and Electro, whose powers basically allow him to do anything with electricity or even become electricity himself.

While having to deal with the imminent threats that are laid in front of him, Spiderman, like almost every other superhero, would have to protect his now girlfriend Gwen Stacy from the villains who would exploit their relationship and use this against him.

After all, nothing else spells a man’s weakness than a woman whom he truly loves, even if he is a superhero.

X-MEN: DAYS OF FUTURE PAST (JULY 18, 2014)

Definitely something worth waiting for. One reason for this is because the story for this movie will be based on the storyline of the actual comics which is one of the most popular story arcs in the X-men comics and has received positive reactions from its release.

Two universes are present in this story. In one universe, the Brotherhood are able to kill Senator Robert Kelly. As a result, the future becomes bleak for mutants. United States becomes taken over by Sentinels and mutants are forced to live in concentration camps. The other universe, where the present day occurs, is where the former outcome is sought to be prevented.

The second reason is because for the cast and crew of the movie, a lot of actors and actresses who have had roles in the past X-men movies would be returning as well to fill in for both present and future versions of their characters. It’s going to feature a star-studded cast with big names such as Hugh Jackman, Patrick Stewart, Ian Mckellen, Ellen Page, Jennifer Lawrence, James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, and more.

The main difference between the comics and the film however, is that instead of Kitty Pryde being the one to inform the present X-men of the future, it would be Wolverine.

In the trailer, Professor X and Magneto are both seen conversing with Wolverine, telling him to transfer his consciousness to his past self and lead the mutants while they were still younger including Professor X and Magneto themselves.

PHOTOS FROM THE INTERNET

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Speaking of the film in general, it would be interesting to see how certain characters would contrast between different versions of themselves. It’s like asking yourself the question “How do you see yourself (x number of) years from now?” and actually getting an answer. In this case, you would see how it plays out with the X-men and how someone from the future would hopefully guide them and prepare them for what is to come.

GUARDIANS OF GALAXY (AUGUST 1, 2014)

Coming in last in the list is Guardians of the Galaxy, another up-coming Marvel film which is presumably going to take place in the same universe as that of the Avengers films. Now, you may be wondering who exactly the Guardians of the Galaxy are and what exactly is going to happen in this movie.

For the characters there’s the leader Star-Lord, who is an ex-astronaut turned space cop, Gamora, dubbed as the Deadliest Woman in the Universe, who was adopted

by Thanos and then escaped to train to become an assassin, Drax the Destroyer, a former human who seeks for revenge against Thanos for murdering his family and was fortunately given a new body with superhuman attributes by the entity Cosmos, Groot, a Royal living tree who is the last of his kind. His powers include control over plants, the ability to change his size at will and rapid regeneration through individual parts of his body. Finally, there’s Raccoon. Named after a Beatles song, this seemingly cute fur ball is dangerous in his own right. He carries a massive variety of weapons, has enhanced senses, and is a gifted tactician. Together their mission statement is: “To protect the universe from potentially devastating cosmic threats.”

To answer the latter question, Marvel stated that it will be about a U.S. pilot who ends up in space in the middle of a universal conflict and goes on the run with futuristic ex-cons who have something everyone wants. So most likely this astronaut being talked about is Star-Lord. Now if you recall the ending of the Avengers film, there was a brief revelation of Thanos’ plan to take over Earth, which implies that Thanos may be the main villain in this next film.

SO THERE YOU HAVE IT. ALL THE SUPERHERO MOVIES YOU NEED TO LOOK OUT FOR IN THE UPCOMING MONTHS. MAKE SURE TO BRING YOUR FRIENDS WHEN YOU WATCH SINCE IT WOULD JUST LOOK SAD IF YOU’RE THERE IN THE MOVIE HOUSE SITTING ALONE EATING YOUR POPCORN AND SIPPING ON YOUR SOFT DRINKS WHILE THE REST OF AUDIENCE ARE HAVING A BLAST CHEERING FOR THEIR FAVOURITE HERO. SURE YOU CAN DO IT, TOO, BUT WOULD YOU REALLY RISK THE JUDGING EYES THAT WOULD JUDGE YOU ONCE THEY SEE YOU’RE DOING IT ALONE? ALSO FOR THE DIE-HARD FANS THERE, DON’T BRING A DATE. THERE IS NO BIGGER TURN OFF THAN YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER SEEING YOU ENJOY THE MOVIE MORE RATHER THAN HIS OR HER COMPANY. PEACE.

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CULTURE

WALL OF SECRETS

Compiled by Derek Parreñas

I THINK THIS IS THE MOST OUTLANDISH BUNCH OF SECRETS TO DATE. THAT MEANS YOU PROBABLY TRUST ME! GOOD JOB, GUYS. I DON'T TRUST PEOPLE THOUGH.

1 2 3

A/C eats rice with coffee. As in, the rice swims in coffee on the plate.

LandiNiGandaGirl has a crush on two taken guys.

San Mig is straight, but he had sexual relations with his same-sex classmate back in Grade Six… and in Second Year High.

4 5

Treyshon was the true person who got the last slice of pizza.

Starry Night was sexually abused by two of his guy cousins when he was young... and he still lives with one of them.

6 7

Girl is legit attracted to Jus Nuque. This list is a members-only list, yup.

Guyabano King has never made out with anyone. He adds: “It’s something we don’t just give to anyone.”

8

Gray was molested by her cousin when she was young. She has had sexual interaction with two other people for after that. She has been fondled, touched, and played with by two other people after that.

One was her neighbor, the other was her second cousin.

9

At age six, when Huggies just had a baby sister, she wanted to find out if the diapers really work. So when her parents were gone, she’d lock the door and wear the diapers of her sister. She would then try to pee, but she never got to pee.

10 11

Ball likes Money. As in, Money is an alias.

Klein was making out with this girl, Camille, at the back of the Math Building when he was a freshman and then the security guard caught them.

12

When Curlz was in kinder, two boys had a crush on her. One was white, and the other was darkskinned. She was racist even when she was a child.

13

Beamer has broken her own rule on not driving a car when overly emotional.

She entertains thoughts of crashing the car when she has such thoughts. Which is why she’s not allowed to have a car.

14

Chair was sneaking around in secret with one of her co-apps before, when they were apps. The co-app told her that he liked her, but she stopped talking to him altogether when he told her that he liked her. It was because she didn’t want people to know what they were up to. And the guy was a douche.

AGAIN, YOUR SECRETS ARE FOREVER SAFE WITH ME. I REALLY WOULDN'T KNOW WHAT TO DO WITH THEM ANYWAY. ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 81

ECHOES

COOL Payat mo dito, Timmy

THE ECOSOC GUY'S ENSEMBLE

by Lorenzo Canaria

IT’S HARD TO DRESS UP FOR MEN. WE DON’T REALLY GET THE PLEASURE OF CHOOSING

from a vast number of pieces, unlike women. We are limited to shirts, polos, jackets, cardis, pants, and a pair of shoes – and fashion designers over time just try to do their best revolutionizing these pieces by changing the way they were sewed.

Now here is where the Ecosoc style comes into the scene.

The UP School of Economics is undoubtedly one of the most stylish colleges here in the University. And Ecosoc largely contributes to the brand of style the school has been showing off for quite some time now.

If you think about it, how a guy dresses up should actually just be pretty easy. But such ease makes outfits quite normal - in a sense that every other guy in school can wear the same thing.

Ecosoc guys, on the other hand, can step it up. The way most 82 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

of our male members mix and match their apparel, especially their regular school apparel, develop the brand of style I am talking about.

You’ve heard it, I’m quite sure. Econ people are stereotyped by the way we talk and the way we dress up – and I think that’s a good thing, for we are able to establish a statement of how stylish we are through a collective effort to dress well.

How did we develop such brand? I will give you three generalizations on how Ecosoc guys dress up.

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THE GUYS WHO KNOW THE BRANDS

The good brands – they are the simplest answer to what a good style is. If you have the money to waste on RTW lines, you shouldn’t really worry about how you look. Because Topman, Cotton On and other Ecosoc favorites got you covered – I have not even taken into account the sharp pairs of kicks our male members own. It is actually these guys – them who largely depend on brands – who achieve the simpleng pa-conyo look.

A polo shirt with good fit always does the trick. It accentuates a man’s upper body and gives it the right amount of masculinity effortlessly. Add a pair of shorts with the right length to that and a pair of sleek shoes, and you’ll look clean and lean enough for school

THE GUYS WHO KNOW WHAT THE TRENDS ARE

Sometimes, you don’t really need to be the most creative person to pull a good outfit off – you just have to know what’s in and what’s out. And if it is trends we are talking about, a number of Ecosoc guys can show us a detailed story of what it is at the moment.

To “know” how to dress up does not necessarily mean going for the more flamboyant pieces. Most of the time, what matters is what you pair up with what. Just like how PauBau gets the right mix of smooth pants and a nice shirt. (Editor's Note: Dude, Zo just said you're not the most creative person)

THE GUYS WHO REALLY KNOW HOW TO DRESS UP

Even people outside the organization openly admit that Ecosoc’s membership has its fair share of the number of people who really know how to dress up. We have members that don’t settle for just jeans and a tee. Instead, they put a lot of effort and creativity to actually put up an outfit worth an instagram post.

We all know there are those fashown members who effortlessly integrate their sense of style and creativity to what they are wearing – those who know how to silently scream who they are through shoes, shirts and pants.

These three ways of choosing what to wear is not entirely Econ’s or Ecosoc’s. You can see trendy people, fashown people, and people who achieve the conyo look from other colleges. But these three, collectively, have formed into a statement that loudly says “Econ”.

Zo Canaria is a Pulse Member and a Vice-Chairperson of SPEV. So yes, both SPEV VCs are now contributers.

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ECHOES

FASHOWN FASHOWNAN:

by Kristina Viray

FALL/WINTER 2013

J

UST BECAUSE RAINY DAYS ARE AHEAD DOESN’T MEAN YOU HAVE TO LOOK LIKE YOU’VE BEEN STRUCK BY A STORM. With one typhoon after another, it can be tempting to grab whatever is on top of your closet. Where is the fun in that? Here is a guide to help you incorporate a few Fall/Winter 2013 trends into your outfit without looking like you’re ready for a Canadian winter.

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ALL WHITE White is leaving black behind this season. Although there is no snow for you to blend in with, you can still wear the shade from head-to-toe. Many are afraid to try this out because there is a misconception that white makes you look fat. Anything that does not fit you well can do that. Take a risk with an all white ensemble. Accessorize away to keep things interesting; just do not overdo it. Do you know what else you’re not supposed to do?

Wear this during that time of the month.

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BRIGHTS

MIDI SKIRTS

What better way to combat Seasonal Affective Disorder than Aren’t you tired of skater skirts? Welcome the new (fashion) to wear brights? Remember that brights do not necessarily season by considering skirts in new volumes and lengths. translate to neons (see PMS 123 and PMS 192 from Pantone). Give midi skirts a go. Midi skirts have been around for some The former can be considered as the latter’s mature siblings. time, but they are now perfect for the cooler weather. For those Wear them in solids for bigger impact. When in doubt, use the of you who are asking what the hell midi skirts are, they are color wheel. It’s better to be informed than to look like whale skirts that fall right below the knee. Try them in bright colors vomit. or leather. Believe me, they can make you look classy when done right.

BUBBLEGUM

MILITARY INSPIRED FASHION

He season of love arrived early with the entrance of printed hearts and dusky pink. Avoid looking like a kid by wearing dark Deep lichen green, a shade between army and khaki, is now the or neutral colors with the hearts. Dusky pink itself is easy on hottest color. It is no surprise that military-inspired fashion the eyes and is the grown-up version of the pink you learned to is still going strong. You don’t have to stick with a camo top, love. Mixing both might be too cutesy, but if you can pull it off, shorts and boots. Go beyond that. Choose structured pieces or why the hell not? camo in different articles of clothing. There is no need to be as rigid as the military when it comes to choosing pieces.

CLASSIC PATTERNS

OVERSIZED

It seems like the fashion world is now ready for a purge after continuous seasons of graphic prints. Classic patterns like plaid are still gaining momentum, with houndstooth taking center stage. It’s best to start with one pattern; try playing with different silhouettes. They will always look good, so don’t screw them up with unnecessary embellishments. They are called classic for a reason.

I bet you think you would look fat with oversized clothes. It is often forgotten that oversized clothes can be used to people’s advantage. They can create an illusion of symmetry or help remedy problem areas. Juxtapose them with tailored or fitted pieces so that there will still be balance. I swear big can be beautiful.

COMFY KNITS

SHINE

Whoever can forget about high-shine pieces for the next For days with cuddle weather (and you have no one to cuddle couple of months? They are the de rigueur for festive times. with), knits can keep you warm. They really need not be dull.

There really is no need to wear them just at night. Keep them They come in different colors, patterns and textures. Play with to a minimum during daytime, focusing on one piece. Try those elements and see what suits you best. Why not pair a knit hologram pieces while they are still breaking into the scene. top with a skirt or a dress one of these days? Just be reminded Just don’t look like a hologram yourself. one but yourself. that there is a line between looking comfy and looking like a grandma.

HATS Hats are temporary solutions to bad hair days. Beanies, floppy knits, fedoras and baseball caps can add character to your outfits. In fact, they are perfect for a little dose of androgyny.

However, don’t push it if you feel like the hat-outfit combo is not working.

LIKE OTHER TRENDS, FALL/WINTER 2013’S KEY PIECES WILL EVENTUALLY FADE. Buy new clothes with caution. Ask yourself if you can use them after this season. No matter the season, there is always a good reason to look your best. Don’t let the typhoons rain on your fashion parade.

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ECHOES

GIRLIE’S GIRL TIPS

by your girl, everyone’s girl, Girlie <3

EVERY GIRL HAS HER SECRETS ESPECIALLY SECRETS ABOUT SECRET LADY THINGS. THERE ARE SECRETS THAT YOUR MOM OR EVEN YOUR HEALTH TEACHER DIDN’T TELL YOU AND LUCKILY FOR YOU, I’M HERE TO SHARE WITH YOU THE JUICY DETAILS ABOUT TWO VERY IMPORTANT SECRET LADY THINGS. GIRLIE, WHAT I AM ABOUT TO SHARE WITH YOU WILL BE VERY IMPORTANT FOR YOUR FIRST TIME DOING IMPORTANT GIRLIE THINGS. ENJOY! 2. The string might get detached and how on earth will you get the freaking tampon from inside you?!

This is the part where karma or fate comes in. Whatever brand of tampons you choose, you must offer a sacrifice 1 of seven perfectly shaped bananas to the temple of the Tampon Goddesses to make sure your tampon adventures will go smoothly. If you don’t want to offer a 2 sacrifice, just know that there is a very small percentage of the tampon string getting detached. But if the Tampon Goddesses decide to smite you with the unfortunate fate of having the string get detached, you must not worry! Your lady part canal is like a clingy friend who hugs your tampon every time they meet. Your lady part canal will hug the tampon in place and in order to get it out you just have to breathe and let out a nice long, COMING CLEAN WITH TAMPONS “ughhhhhhhhh.” (Or at least just make sure you buy a good brand of tampons This is probably one secret lady thing that you rarely talk or hear about. Let me demys- and keep them stored in a cool dry place.) tify some myths about tampons.

1. You can lose your virginity when you use a tampon.

Let me ask you a question: does a tampon look like an actual penis to you? I hope you answered no because using a tampon is not synonymous having penetration or having sex.

Just take a look at the size of the tampon in the picture. Number 1 is what you have to insert into your lady part and number 2 is what actually stays in your lady part.

The key in putting your first tampon is to spread your legs. Girlie, you have to spread them as wide as you can to make room for it. It might be painful at first but your body adjusts to it so when you get better at putting in tampons, it will be easy as American pie! Plus, you always remember your first so this is a very special and important milestone in your life as a girlie!

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3. You have to remove the tampon every time you pee.

We go back to the there are two holes in my lady part?!?!?! question. Let me just clear things up by saying that Hole Number 2 isn’t the one attached to your girlie ass. Obviously, Hole Number 1 is your secret lady part where the monthly fun comes from. And Hole Number 2 is what a certain non-girlie member of Girlie’s Girl Club (we will hide him under the name “Derique”) describes as every girlie’s “micro penis” – it is where your

CULTURE

girlie pee comes out of.

The tampon goes inside Hole Number 1. Your pee hole is Hole Number 2. These are two very different parties in two different places. And girlie, remember that tampons are every girlie’s investment so you don’t want to throw away your girlie money every time you take a winkle in the dinkle.

4. Tampons can cause toxic shock syndrome Two words: USE. PROTECTION. And when I say protection, I mean being hygienic and clean about lady things.

You will probably experience an overwhelming amount of satisfaction - most of us in the Girlie’s Girl Club did - after your first tampon experience and girlie, don’t be afraid to shout out a triumphant “YES!”

LAYING BARE ABOUT THE BRAZILIAN WAX

Sometimes, your lady garden needs a nice trim and despite the horror stories that you probably have heard from brave girlie friends who have already laid bare for their lady garden, here are some things you need to know about the Brazilian wax.

Things you definitely need to know before losing your Brazilian Wax virginity 1. Length is important.

It’s not always longer is better but longer is preferred. Your lady hair should be at least a quarter of an inch long prior to waxing. If it’s longer, your technician will just trim it but if it’s too short the wax cannot pull on the hair.

2. You need to take your panties off.

Be sure to wear something comfortable when you go to the waxing salon. Skirts, dresses, and loose bottoms are highly recommended since they are easier to take off and won’t chafe your lady part when the deed is done. You may feel awkward at first (especially since it’s your first time) but if you have mentally prepared yourself for what’s going to happen then just reassure yourself that your wax technician has probably seen a thousand lady gardens already.

PHOTOS FROM THE INTERNET

3. Be prepared to do different positions.

This is fun part because different positions serve different purposes so be prepared to stretch and flex your girlie muscles on the waxing table! The technique depends on the wax parlor you go to; they may ask you to spread your legs or do yoga positions especially when it comes to the part where your lady butt hair is concerned.

4.

No pain, no gain.

Doing anything for the first time would sometimes entail some amount of pain and girlie, this one will be really painful. Pop some ibuprofens an hour before your waxing session as this will help minimize the pain. Do not get waxed a week before and after your period because we are more sensitive to pain during these days. More so, do not get waxed when you have your period because girlie, that would be gross.

The whole session can last from 15 minutes up to an hour and since it’s your first time, you’ll probably go slow.

Don’t panic, it’s like having an injection; the sting will be there for a few seconds and then it will disappear. If you’re bothered by the idea of being touched down there, well, to be honest, you’d often wish they’ll just soothe your sore lady parts with their hands after every pull.

5. Do not be afraid to scream.

Always try to relax and do not forget to breathe. You are in a private room/ cubicle and no one would really know you. It’s good to voice out what you’re feeling during the moment so don’t be shy to be loud during your first time.

(Editor's note: This comes out dirtier than I imagined) ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 87

ECHOES

ECOSOC POLITIKOS I

by Luigi

Montalbo

WOULD LIKE TO THINK THAT OUR EDUCATION IN UP IS TRAINING US TO BECOME FUTURE LEADERS

one day. Though looking at the people around in the tambayan, it makes me wonder if it’s even a good idea that one of us becomes a leader. I have been observing these people for a while now, even stalking them to analyze their every movement, speech pattern, diet, and daily routine. I even went as far as to take strands of their hair for DNA, blood samples, strips of skin, stool and urine samples. After careful observation and analysis, I have come to the conclusion that if these people become leaders, we are all screwed. Let me cite some of the findings of my research.

THINK THAT ONE OF THEM COULD BE THE NEXT PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC? Maybe you should think again.

LUIS PARTOSA

This man right here has many nicknames “The Flash” “Guy Dangerous” and “Mr. Perfect” are among some of the nicknames bequeathed upon him. This well-chiseled individual makes it a point to make his godlike body stay godlike and indeed, he has.

Through rigorous training, an air-tight strict diet, accompanied 88 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

with genetically enhanced DNA, this specimen has a physiology that defines perfection. That is why as a politician, he would most likely make it a point to make everyone as attractive as he is. Some of his proposals would include: eliminating all forms of transportation in order for everyone to jog instead to their destinations, taking away non-vegan products from the market, and only allowing attractive people to be married.

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ADRI GLOVA

Adri “No team, No problem” Glova is the epitome of athleticism. He is an athlete’s athlete. Basketball, football, volleyball, baseball, handball, softball, grad ball, and chess. You name it. This guy can do anything as long as it is a sport and he is exceptionally good with balls *wink wink*. It is no surprise that as a politician, Adri would allocate the government’s budget to promoting sports in the Philippines. Before learning how to read and write, kids would first have to learn how to shoot and dribble. All channels should feature only sportsrelated programs as regulated by the MTRCB. And, instead of having only 8 units of PE for your entire college life, they would be replaced by having only 8 units of econ, and the rest would be PE.

SAM GONZALES

If Adri Glova is the epitome if athleticism. Sam Gonzales would be the epitome of style. Truly no one else in Ecosoc has personified fashown the way Sam does. Her pubmat designs, choice of clothing, hairstyle, and even her personality are definitely standouts in Ecosoc. That is why if she were a politician, everything must be artistic in one way or another.

All buildings, including high rise ones, would need to be painted from top to bottom with a central theme in the design, or else they would be demolished within a week. When submitting papers, each word must be of a different font and each letter must be of a different color. The use of Comic Sans is a crime punishable by death. Finally, every citizen must wear a unique outfit everyday, and must not repeat clothing within three months. Doing so would alert the fashown police to strip the individual off their clothes and send them to jail with other naked people. Punishment will last for 3-5 years without possibility of early parole. And yes, they stay naked for that long.

JOSH MANDARANG

To the public, he is seen as merely an ordinary econ student from UP Diliman. To the org, he is known as the mentor who would teach you about card games. Some people in the org have claimed to have held their first card because of Josh. It is from this we can speculate that Gambit was Josh’s childhood friend/lover as evidenced by Gambit’s obsession with cards.

Josh probably broke Gambit’s heart which is why Gambit is obsessed with making the cards explode (the cards remind him of Josh). That being beside the point, you’re now probably wondering how Josh would link his love for cards with politics.

(If not, then go join Gambit in cutting yourself with the ace

of hearts card.) Well as economists, we know that money must circulate so that the economy can live. Josh, being an economics student himself and as well as a card nut, would make a law wherein gambling through cards would be the only source of income. That way, everyone would have no choice but to play cards. There would be no taxation needed since all of the money lost would go to the government anyway. In the end, when people lose all their money, they would simply have to die.

After all as stated by John Maynard Keynes, “In the long run we are all dead,” Josh Mandarang would only be applying what he learned in class by implementing his proposed law.

PATRICIA TAN

In this semester, she moved to CDC from Echoes for reasons unknown. Until now her motives are a mystery. Some say that she is a genuinely nice person who simply wants to become more involved in the social development of our country.

Because let’s admit it Patricia comes off as a bright, young woman who only wishes to serve. To that I say watch out! Do not trust her! Why? Simple. She’s Chinese. Worse off , she’s from ICA. If she were a government official, she, together with her Secretary for Covert Military Sabotage, Lerizze Tan, would find a way to make our country surrender to China and make us slaves to their will as we beg like stray dogs for all the leftover noodles at their feet. Yes, she is a deceitful one. But as Sun Tzu once said, “All war is deception.” It is noteworthy to state that Sun Tzu is also Chinese. Strange how Patricia seems to follow in this warlord’s footsteps. Coincidence? I think not.

And there you have it, our Ecosoc politikos. Note that these are only examples. Other potential threats to our country and our sanity are lurking about in the tambayan as you are reading this. Truth be told, everyone is a potential politiko and are bound to act crazy when they’re given power. Aristotle wasn’t kidding when he said, “Man by nature is a political animal.”

Most likely, a lot of us have heard of this quote. It’s just that we never really took the animal part seriously. But yes, we are all animals, and we all desire power. But if there is one animal we must become, it is the spider for the spider knows that with great power comes great responsibility.

Luigi Montalbo is a Pulse member and a former Echoes intern for Litnight 2013. This man is the Seth Rogen of Ecosoc.

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 89

ECHOES

#TWEETABLETWEETS BY @MARTETEKOMALIIT I COULDN'T THINK OF ANYTHING TO SAY HERE IN THIS SPACE, BUT I WANT YOU ALL TO KNOW THAT I AM WATCHING THE TWITTERVERSE FOR THE LATEST HAPPENINGS BECAUSE #YOLO

@alanorqui So my new bed takes up 70% of my room.

Don't know if the bed is too big or my room is too small.

@buchinicole Trying to minimize the garbage I've contributed to the World Wide Web, deleted my old Yahoo account.

@lyonceknowles so basically sa GW family group namin kausap ko sarili ko #ok HAHAHAHHAHA @famamfa "Would you rather... Change gender every time you sneeze? Or not be able to tell the difference between a muffin and a baby?" I AM DYING

@jenafernandez That's it, I don't wanna ever play basketball again..... HAHAHA 1/2 joke #SportsCup

@lyonceknowles Never ba magiging gwapo si Josh Mads for you? — Never say never.

There's always surgery. http://ask. fm/a/5j8g3b1k @xpandiknowit GUYSE WAIT KUMALMA TAYO TEASER NG SHERLOCK SEASON 3 KUMALMA TAYO

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@erwinmate WHY AM I SO CHILL? #erwinpls @erolmiranda UPCAT is the university's way of saying No Scrubs Allowed @OreoMcfLERI Reciprocal ng cosecant #ItsASine

@ayi_dave Ang lamiiiiiiiig ng panahon! Parang ikaw lang

@pau13au I was messed up too and I didn't even know it

@erolmiranda me: what is roar? @mikesaulo : roar roar roar your boat gently down the stream

@MarteteKoMaliit Wtf my lunch is literally veggies and rice do I look like a goat?? I deserve better treatment!!!

@xpandiknowit Reading the Echoes issue and saktong sawi lang please teka lang

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@badjojoseph Me: Kamusta UPCAT? Justin: Kuya, bakit ka nahirapan dati? #gagu

@Jomicmac @bitchyrich04 Tayong dalawa Manyak tayo. Wag na tayong magpanggap :)))

@OreoMcfLERI I was getting my bag checked at the mall earlier when suddenly the guard says..."Happy Birthday,Ma'am" WTH HAHAHAHA

@bitchyrich04 Momol ko nalang september sa sobrang fun niya :">

@mark_bue Driver ng jeep may kausap sa phone, tapos nakita niyang tinitignan na siya ng mga tao. Sabi niya sa kausap "uy babye na labyu" aww sweet!! @lyonceknowles Don't make a mistake, cover your snake! Before you attack her, wrap your whacker! The right selection is to protect your erection! LOL NIGHT @bitchyrich04 Manyak daw ako #medyomalabo #whut @godfwhey #ERROR!

@MarteteKoMaliit ANG SARAP MO PATAYIN!!!! is what I would say to my router because of the bad wifi @MarteteKoMaliit Played Civ V from 7am - 9pm today and I just watched the trailer and I WANT TO PLAY AGAIN @famamfa Alam niyo... ang daming sawi. Legit.

Parang puro sad lang tayong lahat pala. @lancetlim Yung nakikita ko #MedyoMalabo @lyonceknowles Moreno daw si @ADRIggatedemand #MedyoMalabo #MedyoEgoy

@kristinaviray Overheard in Ateneo (from my timeline on Facebook): Professor: "Where do poor people shop?" Student: "Trinoma" HAHAHAHAHA @PORNetto @lyonceknowles @erwinmate @tellittotelle telle tiberio = madame TT @_JoshDoIt In other news...Haddadi doesn't have an NBA team right now. @EcosocPls >eat on execm tabel Ars: tngna dba i sez u cnt eat hir Ecscr: Ars pls RT f u creyed @EcosocPls ecscr: pls feechur me n ekows nxt monht pls ekows: ur nt spexal ecscr: y u do dis ekows? rt f u cryed

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 â&#x20AC;˘ 91

ECHOES

JUSSIP G.

Jus Nuque is back with even more scandalous whatnots. Seesh, she says no one knows who she is down there.

DISCLAIMER: ALL REAL NAMES OF PLACES, PEOPLE, AND EVENTS HAVE BEEN ALTERED TO PROTECT THE INNOCENT. NAMELY, ME. If this year were a party, then we’re just starting with the shots. Welcome to the month of August, my dear college kids.

My eyes have been doing a pretty good job the past two months, and for that I am rewarded. Though our fabulous team can handle gathering the juicy scoop, we absolutely cannot resist our anonymous friends. You keep me alive, readers. If only I knew who you all were. But then again, who knows me?

Your Emails Q: Hey JG, I’m a super oily person and I don’t know what to do about it. Every time I wake up in the morning, it’s just all oil. Sometimes it drips. I always sleep with the AC on, by the way.

–Oily21 A: Dear Oily21 Do I look like a beauty columnist to you? With all that oil, I can imagine that you have an acne-filled face. Remember to clean it in the morning and before you sleep. I hope your oil doesn’t drip on an innocent person’s Birkin bag. Wash your face. Pls. Q: Hey Jussip G, I totally have a crush on The Python, but I heard he joined this dating contest. I also heard he’s winning. How do I win him over?

–SnakeLover A: Dear SnakeLover That’s already old news. He’s winning for now, but he’s got some stiff competition with seven other boys. They won’t go down without a fight. As for your crush on him, don’t be afraid to step in his pit. The Python loves women.

That’s it for now. It’s now time for me to get back to the party. Feel free to send in your questions or sightings to UrSoSexyJG@jussipg.net Remember, there is no gossip without secrets. And who am I? That’s a secret I’ll never tell. You know you love me.

XOXO, Jussip G 92 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH

ECHOES | AUGUST 2013 • 93

94 • AUGUST 2013 | ECHOES.PH