Halawin Volume 3 Issue No. 1

HALAWIN

HALAWINSBS SOCIETY.BIO.STUDENTS

HALAWIN

October 2021 - August 2022

editorial board

editor-in-chief rommel p. aban

associate editor jerlin joy v. adducul

managing editor jennylyn f. bernardo

news editors mira kleir a. daroca •

neil t. dahipon

feature editor maria erika t. sualibio •

riza marie o. montemayor

literary editor abdurrahman d. bausing science and technology editor

kate monica m. sta. clara

layout artists audrey destine l. castillo •

josh darwin m. sapon

writers

news

precious lyka b. calzita

mareeka v. manalili

ma. jesmen clarise a. malabanan

science and technology

andrew c. tolentino

arjin p. callada

staff

andrei g. gaspar

seth niño b. paparon

maria jesusa d. lopido illustrators

anna christina i. bontogon

rogiebelle caliao

photographers

denese bea s. cay

landel r. gamboa

circulations manager

jaira maricar d. berioso

contributing members

sonny manalastas

ann clarice cid

mary joy bayos

junel legasi

irish carizal

ariane gayle capistrano

cherry joyce nieto

publication adviser

ryan v. labana

The 2022 Philippine Election was a tough battlefield.

A battle full of enemies who are trying to silence the voice of the truth while others indulge in spreading misinformation and conjecture. The silence that sparked the loudest revolt for the voiceless, yet remained unscramble. And as our quest to fight this oppressing administration, heroes have transformed into writers.

In this critical year of fighting for a clean and safe election, let’s end the reign of rotten and tyrannical reporting. Let’s prove to our eventual opposition that journalists and fact-checkers are the heroes and real winners in this war. That this battlefield does not require a bloody weapon but to prove that “pen is still mightier than the sword”.

*Halawin is a publication under the affiliation of PUP Society of Biology Students

Illustration by Rogiebelle Caliao

PUP biology seniors present fungal chitosan research at AMC 2021 in Thailand

By Mira Kleir A. Daroca

Dubbed ‘Team FunGIE’, the trio composed of Microbiology majors, namely, Ghimel P. Espinosa, Irah Faye B. Garzon, and Raven Elyze E. Laurella, had the opportunity to share their work on chitosan, a biopolymer significant to numerous industrial and medical applications mainly because of its attractive properties including hydrophobicity, biocompatibility, biodegradability, and non-toxicity.

According to the team, their presentation titled ‘Isolation and Characterization of Rhizopus oryzae Chitosan’ focused on the extraction and characterization of fungal chitosan from R. oryzae mycelia that is isolated from a bread mold and cultivated in potato dextrose media.

The research is a project under the Young Innovators Program (YIP), a research support initiative by the Department of Science and Technology

- Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD).

As YIP grantees, ‘Team FunGIE’ worked on their research for a year with the supervision of their adviser, Dr. Lourdes V. Alvarez, and co-adviser, Assoc. Prof. Chester C. Deocaris.

Prior to their AMC feat, the team submitted their abstract for the oral presentation category which was later reviewed for acceptance by the scientific communities.

“Once we knew that our paper was accepted, we immediately did the work to

As YIP grantees, ‘Team FunGIE’ worked on their research for a year with the supervision of their adviser, Dr. Lourdes V. Alvarez, and co-adviser, Assoc. Prof. Chester C. Deocaris.

Prior to their AMC feat, the team submitted their abstract for the oral presentation category which was later

reviewed for acceptance by the scientific communities.

“Once we knew that our paper was accepted, we immediately did the work to make our research paper pre sentable as much as possible. As time passes by closer to the presentation date, nervousness lingers in my emotions but the excitement still holds stronger,” mentioned Espinosa in an interview.

Under Parallel Session 2: Applied Biotechnology, Espinosa presented their research for about 13 minutes and subsequently entertained questions and suggestions from the session chairman, Prof. Dr. Marc Stadler, and the audience.

“It was a very memrable and honorable experience for me, to be able to present our research paper in AMC and be able to represent our university to international audiences. To be able to experience such a feat during our time as undergraduates

was an unforgettable moment filled with the thrill and joy of the experience to traveabroad for the first time. Once the presentation was over, everything else was a huge relief and we got to enjoy the remaining days of our trip in peace while in AMC and got to travel around Bangkok with our remaining time,” said Espinosa.

“We were able to show them what our study is composed of and how significant it is. During the same experience, we were able to listen to their studies and also be inspired and learned by the roots of their objectives, how they conducted their methods, interpreted, and presented their data. We were also able to get to know some of the researchers during the break time and get their emails or contacts for possible communication in the future,” added Garzon.

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Three senior students from the Department of Biology of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) showcased their research at the Asian Mycological Congress (AMC) 2021 held in Pathum Thani, Thailand on August 3-5, 2022.

PUP Biology students together with their advisers and faculty attend the Asian Mycological Congress (AMC) 2021 last August 3-5, 2021. (from left - Prof. Dr. Marc Stadler, Raven Elyze Laurella, Irah Faye Garzon, Dr. Jennifer Luangsa-ard, Dr. Lourdes Alvarez, Mr. Chester Deocaris, Ms. Julie Charmain Bonifacio, Ghimel Espinosa)

Team BiDaLight secures grant in YIP 2021

By Neil Jr. T. Dahipon

Three biology undergrads of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) qualify as grantees in the Young Innovators Program (YIP) 2021 of the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD).

Fondly called ‘Team BidaLight,’ the group com posed of Rogiebelle DR. Ca liao, James Matthew T. Hile, and Rheinne M. Sanchez, are students in the Microbiology track of the University’s Biol ogy Program.

Their research proposal titled “BiDaLight (Bio-Derived Light): Spent Mushroom Sub strate (SMS) powered microbial fuel cells” was selected among the 22 shortlisted applications of the said program nation wide.

According to Hile, their research proposal is all about innovating a fully fun gal-derived Microbial Fuel Cell using Pleurotus ostreatus inoculate and spent oyster mushroom substrates to create an alternative source of green energy while regenerating agricultural wastes.

‘ Team BiDaLight’ will conduct their study within a year under the supervision of their adviser, Dr. Lourdes V. Alvarez, and co-adviser, Assoc. Prof. Chester C. Deocaris.

“To be honest, we really want to become YIP grantees so when we finally received the congratulatory letter,wewereshocked.Itwas not an easy ride for us. Since it was during the pandemic, we experienced making and recording our presentation from 2 am to 5 am just to have a good internet connection. One of our groupmates had the flu the day before our defense to DOST-PCIEERD.We were really nervous, and we did not know what to do that time because he was the one

BSBIO records 11% dip in enrollment

need to have is a goal in mind because that goal will keep your group on track. And while having a goal, do your best, be humble, persevere, work hard, and always trust your groupmates. Also, get ready for the ride because it is not going to be smooth, but it will surely be a fun and eye-opening experience. Good luck to you all and always remember, lagi’t lagi para sa bayan at para sa agham,” advised Sanchez to aspiring YIP grantees.

By Precious Lyka B. Calzit & Ma. Jesmen Clarise A. Malabanan

Based on the data of the PUP Society of Biology Students (SBS) - Membership Committee, an 11% decrease in enrollees in the Bachelor of Science in Biology (BSBIO) program were recorded for the school year 2021-2022 where 161 freshmen were welcomed compared to the 181 first-years (now second year) recorded last year.

hoped for the best during the presentation. Now, we are so happy because we were able to surpass all that obstacles as a team,” said Caliao.

YIP is a research support initiative of the DOSTPCIEERD that provides funding opportunities to students from high school to undergraduate levels who want to engage in one-year research activity within the PCIEERD sectoral priority areas, leading to publication, product invention, patent filing, training people, providing public service, and passing or preparation of science-based policies.

This program grants young researchers financial support amounting to P800,000.00, covering student stipend/living allowance, maintenance and operating expenses, honorarium for the mentors, and other professional services.

“The first thing you

The online contract signing ceremony of the approved YIP 2021 grantees was held last November 5, 2021.

Four (4) other proposals from PUP were also shortlisted, however, the former solely made it in the final roster of successful grantees.

BY THE NUMBERS

BS Biology Enrolment A.Y. 2021-2022

Overall, the department recorded 746 enrolled students, and tallied 201 in the third-year level (164 for Microbiology; 32 for Animal Biology; and 5 for Plant Biology), and 203 students in the fourth-year level (116 for Microbiology; 66 for Animal Biology; and 21 for Plant Biology).

On the other hand, microbiology led the number of biology students with 280 third and fourth-year students enrolling in the track, followed by zoology track with 98 students, and botany with 26 students.

The Bachelor of Science in Biology Program gives students a solid foundation in the biological sciences by imparting key biological theories and concepts, keeping them up to date on recent developments in biology and related fields, enhancing their research skills, fieldwork, and laboratory proficiency, and instilling in them a scientific and ethical culture of science. Additionally, all BS Biology track programs offer a well-rounded education in the biological sciences, with equal emphasis on three (3) different specializations: plant, animal, and microbial fields.

PUP Biology dominates BIOMOSS Summit 2021

By Neil Jr. T. Dahipon

Two teams from the Department of Biology

Polytechnic

Philippines (PUP) excelled in the 1st Annual Biomolecular Science Student (BIOMOSS) Summit held last December 15, 2021.

The Department of Science and TechnologyPhilippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI) organized BIOMOSS as a culminating activity for the internship program of 27 groups of fourth-year Biology students in the said institute.

The team of Rufel Joy Co, Lovely May Lacandula, and Dessiree Allyssa Tina bagged the Best Paper Presentation award with their research titled “Predicting potential targets of RRx-001 as a radioprotector: An in-silico target fishing approach”.

The group also won the People’s Choice Award for Poster Presentation after garnering the highest social media engagements with 1028 positive reactions on Facebook and 985 shares on Facebook.

Meanwhile, the group of James Johnson Lopez, Ralph Emmanuel Lumabi, and

Ma. Angela Faye Tapalla won the Best Poster with their study titled “An in-silico analysis of Multi-epitope Protein-Based Vaccine against Brugia malayi”.

“Through this internship, I learned that there are various fields that we can explore with research, the internship alone taught me about how to use different bioinformatic tools, especially in our in silico study,” Lacandula said.

She also added the importance of writing and presenting a scientific paper in a way that can be easily understood by people who are not in the field since that is the primary goal of research which ismaking lives better and knowledge accessible to people.

The BIOMOSS Summit 2021 centered on the theme “Exploring Bioinformatics and related fields for flexible on-the-job trainings.”

Biology AB students secures 3rd place in univ-wide research pitching meet

By Ma. Jesmen Clarise A. Malabanan

Student researchers from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) - Main Campus Department of Biology won third place in the first PUP Research Pitching Competition held last October 30, 2021.

‘TEAM J’, comprised of Jimson Gregorio from BSBIO 4-4AB, Mariane Gabion from BS BIO 4-5AB, and the group presenter Lenn Rose Cawaling from BS BIO 4-4AB, showcased their research proposal titled “Tentacle-based Hemolysis in Blood Agarose in Indo-Pacific Chirodropidae: A Comparative Time-Dependent Analysis”.

Their proposal sought to bridge the knowledge gap between developing efficient firstaid strategies for jellyfish stings and investigating the effects of jellyfish venom on the body to de-

PUP Biology Dep’t welcomes 9 new DOST-SEI JLSS scholars

By Precious Lyka B. Calzita

Department of Biology welcomes nine new grantees of the 2021 Department of Science and Technology - Junior Level Science Scholarship (DOST-JLSS) last February 13, 2022.

The scholars namely, Jomari T. Bacay, Pauline Joy A. Jordan, Gabrielsony J. Mendoza, Mark Joseph P. Teves, Maria Eika T. Sualibio, Ellizelle Nicole A. Calaoagan, Alethea Vien M. Lopez from Microbiology, and Agie S. Angeles from Plant Biology, were among the 1, 701 new grantees of the said Science and Technology (S&T) scholarship.

The JLSS Program of DOST provides financial assistance for the education of thirdyear students enrolled in priority STEM programs, with the aim of developing human resource capital, which leads society into an innovative and developing country.

Accordingly, the qualifiers were screened for their eligibility through the JLSS E-Scholarship Application System and were evaluated based on their submitted documents, among which were their grades in their first two years in college.

“Sabi ko kasi sa sarili ko noong grade 12, gagamitin ko na deciding factor yung DOST-SEI exam if kukuha ako ng STEM program pagdating ng college. Like, if hindi ako nakapasa, ibang course na kukunin ko. Unfortunately hindi nga ako nakapasa kaso gusto ko talaga mag-take ng STEM program, Biology in particular. Aware

na rin naman ako noon pa sa DOST JLSS kaya ginawa ko na lang siya na motivation para galingan during my first two college academic years to get into the scholarship.” Lopez said.

“Bukod sa financial benefits ng DOST JLSS, iba rin kasi yung honor na maging iskolar ng agham knowing na after mo matapos yung program mo, you’ll be able to serve the nation through science. Kaya I think isa rin ito sa mga nag-motivate sa akin to do well and get into the scholarship program.” Lopez added.

To qualify, a student must have no failing grade from the first semester to the second semester of the previous school years in college, be enrolled in an S&T priority course, and be a natural-born Filipino citizen.

Qualifiers of the S&T scholarship will receive tuition subsidy, monthly stipend, book allowance, thesis allowance, transportation allowance, and other benefits starting the first semester of the academic year 2021-2022.

In exchange for educational support, the scholars are obligated to undergo compulsory return of service which aims to serve the country on a full-time basis for the same period they enjoyed the scholarship.

By Lenn Rose Cawaling

of

University of the

Team J receives their certificate from the PUP Research Pitching Competition alongside their adviser Sir Noel, held last October 30, 2021. (from left to right - Mr. Ryan V. Labana, Dr. Noel A. Saguil, Lenn Rose Cawaling, Jimson Gregorio, Mariane Gabion and Prof. Aleta C. Fabregas)

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Photos

PUP-SBS steers BIOWEEK 2022; BSBIO 3-2 proclaim champions

By Mareeka V. Manalili

With the theme “BIOMONDS: Shining Light on the Essence of Biology in Our Daily Lifestyle”, students of the Department of Biology at Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) engaged in the 12th annual BioWeek celebration led by the Society of Biology Students (SBS) from May 3–7, 2022.

This yearly event aims to showcase the skills, talents, and intelligence of every Biology student through the different contests under the categories of academics, nonacademics, e-games, and the highly anticipated competition of all representatives for Biology’s Next Top Model (BNTM). The event also promotes camaraderie and instills knowledge about recent scientific breakthroughs in the field of biology.

Overall, the BS Biology 3-2MB triumphantly took the championship title, followed by BS Biology 1-1 as the first runner-up and BS Biology 2-1, which was named the second runner-up.

Eight contestants were unveiled for BNTM cycle 8 and flaunted laboratory coat-inspired fashion in line with the theme “The Biologist Who Defied Fashion Under Their Lab Gowns.” Among the candidates, Jennylyn Bernardo of 3-2 MB stood out and was named the BNTM Cycle 8 Champion, wherein she took inspiration from ‘histones’ for her outfit, which she considers “small yet significant.”

“I did exert some effort— to give my best—but winning the competition wasn’t my objective. More than anything, I was most excited about the opportunity to express my narratives and advocacies through

photos that reflected me and my creativity. I am also extending my gratitude to my classmates who were there to help me,” said Ms. Bernardo.

In the academic contests, the following students were declared winners: Jarvic Louis Suguitan from BS BIO 2-1 in General Science Quiz Bee; Deniel Moises Tolibas from BS BIO 2-3 in Social Science contest; Catherine Joyce Perez from BSBIO 1-3 in Philippine History bout; Denver Erick Almeria from BSBIO 4-3MB in Spelling Bee, and the group of James Matthew Hile from BSBIO 3-4MB, Kobe Garcia, and Neil Jr. Dahipon from BS BIO 2-5 for Tagisan ng Haynayan.

For the non-academic competitions, the following students were hailed as champions: Jomarie Adea from BSBIO 1-1 in Calligraphy; Joanna Marie A. Montano from BS BIO 1-4 in Poem Writing; Maria Kim Beverly Mendoza from BS BIO 2-2 in Pagsulat ng Tula; Ma. Jesmen Clarise Malabanan from BSBIO 3-2MB in Essay Writing; Shantelle Porton from BS BIO 2-5 in Pagsulat ng Sanaysay; Alysa Sulaiman from BS Biology 3-2MB in Digital Poster Making; Rafaela Joyce Andrea Royo from BS BIO 2-5 in Tiktok Battle; and Rocky John Sabiaga from BSBIO 1-1 in Chess.

Meanwhile, in the E-Games competition, the team of Whiffers for Leni bested their opponents in the Valorant competition; the Trolls were declared champions in the League of Legends bout; and Black Diamonds dominated the Mobile Legends games.

“When it comes to challenges since online yung pag-conduct natin ng Bioweek, I think we struggled on how we can involve the members in the event. Hindi naging madali yung pag-encourage sa mga kapwa students natin dahil limited yung interactions during online class.” Ms. Alethea Vlen Lopez, Executive Vice President of PUP-SBS, as she shared the struggles in the online BioWeek due to the pandemic.

Lopez added that conducting an online event for this huge celebration was not an easy task for the officers, yet despite the difficulties they encountered, she mentioned that it was a re warding experience since she was working with her colleagues with whom she spent months preparing and conceptualizing the whole event, where their common goal is to promote camaraderie within the department of biology. Furthermore, online lectures and workshops were also

conducted during the celebration of BioWeek: Mr. Ralph Michael Tumaneng, Ms. Jacquiline Tychuaco, and Mr. Michael Itliong discussed and held workshops in layouting and presentations themed “Malachite: Fuse Your Craftmanship Through Digital Art” and “Hessonite: Light Up Your Thought Using Proper Presentation Techniques,” while lectures focused on “Biology, Fermentation, Spoilage, and Food Preservation,” “Wildlife Trafficking,” and “Biology and Environmental Planning” were tackled by Ms. Ana Maria Espiritu, Ms. Christine Joy Bantiling, and Dr. Ibylou Golla.

Samaniego, Cantillano clutch People’s Choice Award in PNMCC 2021

By Neil Jr. T. Dahipon

Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Biology students Mico G. Samaniego and Trisha Mae M. Cantilliano from the 4-1 Microbiology Track bagged the People’s Choice Award in the 21st Philippine Network of Microbial Culture Collections (PNMCC) Annual Symposium, last October 2, 9,16, and 23, 2021.

Their study titled “Culvaria sp. causes leaf spot to Citrullus lanatus (Watermelon)” garnered 658 combined heart and like reactions, 112 shares, and five comments in the post on the official Facebook page of PNMCC, which catapulted them to winning the said award.

“Our research paper discussed the fungal speciesCulvaria, a common fungal pathogen that is considered a primary threat to agricultural products because it can cause severe or opportunistic diseases. Our aim is to aid this affected fruit crop which requires proper disease manage

ment,” Samaniego stated as he shared the topic of their research. He added that the event was helpful as their learnings can be applied in the field of fungal research, and through the event, he appreciated the importance of research and development in gathering new information which

can be applied in the industry of farming, medicine, and other inndustries.

The PNMCC Symposium 2021 was themed “Microbial Culture Collections in the New Normal and Beyond.”

Official Main Poster of the Bioweek By Rona Togupen

Innovation amidst desolation SBS, Biology students receive 92 ‘Makeroscopes’

By Neil Jr. T. Dahipon

Polytechnic University of the Philippines – Society of Biology Students (SBS) and Department of Biology students accepted 92 ‘makeroscopes’ funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) - Technology Application and Promotion Institute (TAPI) last February 27, 2022.

SBS was among the 11 chosen groups or school organizations who received the ‘makeroscope’ – a keychain microscope prototype placed on top of the front-facing camera of a smartphone or tablet made in lieu of the costly light microscope, invented by Jeremy De Leon, a Mapua University alumnus.

De Leon envisioned the Makeroscope to fill the gap in learning especially during the pandemic which restricted students from going to schools and their access to laboratory equipment like microscopes. He stated that his innovation could provide firsthand experience in viewing microscopic entities instead of learning through videos, pictures, and online simulations.

SBS was qualified after submitting a video that tackled the importance of Makeroscope and how it can maximize the potential of the organization. After qualifying, SBS members and constituents attended an online workshop on how to use the keychain microscope.

Subsequently, an event called SBS Makeroscope Discovery was organized by the organization from April 5 to 13, 2022 with the theme, “Microscopic Discoveries to Macroscopic Learning: An SBS Special Series for Makeroscope Initiative 2022” which encouraged the recipients of the microscope alternative to showcase their discoveries and progress.

In line with the celebration of the World Microscope Day,

a culminating activity was conducted by Jeremake, the official distributor of Makeroscope to exhibit the captured species and specimens from different school organizations nationwide.

Alethea Lopez, Executive Vice President of SBS stated during the culminating activity how the Makeroscope helped the students re-ignite their passion for learning amidst the struggles during the pandemic. She also highlighted how the keychain microscope helped students transform microscopic learning into a macro scopic one.

The other school organiza tions qualified for the event are Batangas State University

- Biomedical Students, Echague National High School - Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Club, Pal awan State Univer sity- Young Biologists Association, Mindanao State University General Santos City - Pre-Medi cal Society, Ateneo de Naga University- Ateneo de Naga Biology Majors (ANBIOM), Rizal Technological University - Orga nization of Biotechnology Students, Our Lady of Fatima University Antipo lo Campus - Academic Research Team (Medical Technology), Bicol Universi ty -Bicol University Science Alliance Club (BUSAC) the University of North ern Philippines - Philippine Society of Medical Technology Students, and Mindanao State University MarawiSociety of Life Sciences Students.

Photos JeremakeBy & Marvin Retuerto

PUP Biology students receive their Makeroscope (from Jeremake) funded by DOST-TAPI last February 2022.

Biology researchers bag DOST research support

By Mareeka V. Manalili

In support of research initiatives, the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOSTPCIEERD under the Human Resources Development Program (HRDP) granted a Facilities and Laboratory Access Grant (FLAG) 2022 to two research groups from the Biology Department of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Sta. Mesa on April 18 and 29, 2022.

The grantees are ‘Team Bio-Insulation’ composed of Jhoana Archel Fermin, Gabrielsony Mendoza, and Roque Porcel with their study titled “BIO-INSULATION: Low-Cost Aerogel with Heat and Sound Insulation Properties from Spent Mushroom Substrate and Coir Fiber” and ‘Team Funko Bats’ which constituted Glenn Christian Bamuya, Keith Mariz Lazo, and Paolo Nicko Lucas for their research titled “Funko Bats (Fungal Quinone Batteries): A Sustainable Energy Storage from Fungal Quinone Extraction”. Both groups are under the supervision of Dr. Lourdes C. Alvarez and her co-adviser, Assoc. Prof. Chester C. Deocaris.

The researchers presented their applications to Dr. Enrico C. Paringit, Executive Director of DOST-PCIEERD, via the Project Management Information System (PMIS), and were assisted by Ms. Joy Zabala, Science Research Specialist I from the Human Resources and Institution Development Division (HRIDD), throughout their application.

“Yung main reason kasi [namin ay] want namin na mag-experimental yung thesis but naisip namin na magastos kaya magandang opportunity yung grant na ito para mabigyan ng fund yung thesis namin especially sa mga testing na hindi talaga namin afford as students,” Ms. Fermin mentioned in an inter view when asked about their

FLAG application.

Mr. Bamuya, on the other hand, said that their team was hesitant to submit their paper at first because of the research’s level of difficulty, however, their eagerness to secure the grant pushed them to do so.

“We are happy. That was our initial reaction, but later on, it became like ‘ano ‘tong pinasok natin?’ It is because of the commitment, time, and money that we need to sacrifice in order for the research to take place. It is hard, but we need to finish it,” added Mr. Bamuya.

The grant has a maximum value of 250,000php, and qualified students have access to facilities and laboratories of DOST and other DOST-funded facilities such as the Electronics Product Development Center (EPDC), Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMCen), Advanced Mechatronics, Robotics, and Industrial Automation Laboratory (AMERIAL) , and many more.

The signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was attended by the abovementioned advisers last August 3 and 12, 2022 at the DOST Compound, Bicutan, Taguig City.

Meanwhile, alongside these groups, student researchers from the Department of Chemistry under the guidance of Assoc. Prof. Deocaris also received the same grant.

Bio students triumph in CS Week 2022

By Ma. Jesmen Clarise A. Malabanan

Department of Biology students bagged awards during the celebration of the 29th anniversary of the College of Science (CS) with the theme of “IGPAW: Pag-ahon sa hamon ng Krisis sa Makabagong Panahon” in August 2022.

As part of the festivities, CS students participated in various academic and non-academic competitions hosted by the PUP College of Science Student Council (CSSC).

BS Biology as ‘Team Morayta’ competed with different science courses, namely, BS Chemistry, BS Physics, BS Nutrition and Dietetics, BS Food Technology, BS Applied Mathematics, BS Mathematics, and BS Statistics.

In the academic contests, biology students Deniel Moises Tolibas was declared champion in the category of Social Sciences; Jarvic Louis Suguitan and Christiana Faith Valconcha won 2nd and 3rd runners-up, respectively in the General Information category; and Ivy Shantelle Porton and Cazzandra Jake Jadrin secured the 2nd and 3rd runner-up places in Pagsulat ng Sanaysay, respectively. Meanwhile, in the non-academic contests, Jarvic

Louis Suguitan, Jayvee Mateo, Trixie Ann Tajan, Matthew Andrei Castillo, and Ma. Veronica Isabel Medina notched the 2nd runner-up title in the e-game tournament for Valorant.

The winners in the said contests were announced on August 12 during the closing ceremony of CS Week.

Hannah Grace Siena, Vice President of the CSSC, encouraged the students in her closing statement to build a strong feeling of accountability, trust, and unity around team goals.

“… and sa lahat ng mga nanalo and sa mga hindi nanalo, I hope that this activity created a camaraderie among us,” Siena aforementioned.

The Department of Nutrition and Dietetics was hailed as the overall champion of CS Week 2022, followed by the Department of Chemistry, Mathematics, and Statistics as 1st, 2nd, and 3rd runners-up, respectively.

Two research groups from the PUP Biology receive the DOST-FLAG Grant (in photos - Glenn Christian Bamuya, Keith Mariz Lazo, Paolo Nicko Lucas, Roque Porcel, Gabrielsony Mendoza, Jhoana Archel Fermin) Photo By Denese Bea Cay

Balik scientist Dr. Luangsa-ard holds webinar about IPF in PUP

By Jennylyn Bernardo

In a three-part webinar series, Balik-Scientist Dr. Jennifer Luangsa-ard shared her expertise on invertebrate pathogenic fungi (IPF) with the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Department of Biology faculty and students on October 8, 15, 22, and 29, 2021. The three segments of the webinar series were titled “Fungal Biodiversity and Research on Invertebrate Pathogenic Fungi, Collection, Isolation, and Preservation of Invertebrate Pathogenic Fungi, and Morphological Characterization of Invertebrate Pathogenic Fungi”, respectively.

Dr. Luangsa-ard, a well-known IPF expert, is a recipient of the Balik Scientist Program (BSP) by the Department of Science and Technology’s Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD), with PUP as its host institution. She is the current team head of the Plant Microbe Research Interaction Research Team and the former head of the National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology’s Microbe Interaction and Ecology Laboratory in Thailand.

On October 8, 2021, Dr. Luangsa-ard mentioned during the first webinar in the series that research on IPF in the Philippines is currently understudied, mostly focused on biocontrol, and limited in terms of taxonomic studies. In addition, she emphasized the significance of doing more research to evaluate IPF diversity in the Philippines.

“Itisveryimportantto do research because IPF plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems by killing insects; knowing the diversity in the Philippines will also give an idea of what we have and provide materials for future studies and applications,” said Dr. Luangsa-ard.

In addition, Dr. Luangsa-ard presented her understanding of the challenges

faced in investigating invertebrate pathogenic fungi. According to her, looking for IPF is similar to “hunting for a needle in a haystack.” She also made a point about how challenging it is to cultivate IPF in culture.

“Most of them (IPF) could easily be mistaken as saprophytic fungi growing on insect cadavers and are neglected. Few people know where to look for them or know what they look like. Another challenge is how to put them in culture because many are fastidious pathogens and can’t grow without their hosts (most ant pathogens),” she added.

At the conclusion of the webinar series, Dr. Luangsa-Ard expressed her gratitude to the university for allowing her to share her knowledge and expertise. Dr. Luangsa-ard has been studying invertebrate pathogenic fungi for more than 20 years. According to her, she is incredibly happy with what she does. She then proceeded to offer advice to PUP biology students who wished to pursue careers similar to her own.

“You have to love what you do and the rest will follow. The challenge and thrill offindingthem(IPF)inthefield made me really want to focus on them as well as knowing all the possible applications and also their interesting biology.

Many people have given up studying them because it’s hard to find them in the field and requires good teamwork. Finding a good group of motivated scientists will usually do the trick, but the infrastructure should also be there to support the research,” Dr. Luangsa-ard concluded.

Dr. Lourdes C. Alvarez, the head of the PUP Mycology Laboratory, also expressed her gratitude. She believed that the approaches offered by Dr. Luangsa-ard would be highly valuable for future research at the university.

“I hope we can publish a lot of papers as Dr. Jen visits the Philippines to provide training. Dr. Jen’s introduction of new methodologies and tools was extremely helpful to us, not just the students but also the professors. Therefore, it is an honor for us that Dr. Luangsa-Ard is joining us,” Dr. Alvarez stated. Meanwhile, PUP students who participated in the webinar series by Dr. Luangsa-ard also find the topic to be extremely fascinating. One of them is Kate Monica Sta. Clara from BS Biology 3-2MB. ”Because of the webinar, I became so interested in investigating the different species of invertebrate

pathogenic fungi that it became my first-choice topic for my thesis”. Sta. Clara stated. Seth Niño Paparon, also from 3-2MB had similar views regarding the IPF, where he was particularly interested in the biocontrol potential of this species. “I am particularly interested in the biocontrol portion of IPF since, as we all know, insect pests can cause major crop damage, resulting in large output losses and decreased crop quality. Chemical pesticides have been the most widely used method of controlling insect pests, but they have a number of negative environmental side effects, including contamination of water, soil, and non-target creatures. In contrast, IPF is a less dangerous way to address pest infestations,” Paparon mentioned in the interview. Dr. Luangsa-ard is set to travel to the Philippines as part of the BSP and to visit her host institution. She and Dr. Alvarez, alongside other faculty from College of Science and their student-research advisees from the Main and Lopez City campus, are set to collect IPF samples from tropical forests in Quezon Province on June 8-12, 2022.

Dr. Luangsa-ard (fourth from left) together with the faculty and students of PUP College of Science flash their smiles before going to Quezon Province for the training and collection of IPF species.

Team PUP IPF

PUP Herbarium, botany studes feature campus plant diversity

By Mareeka V. Manalili

As part of their on-the-job training (OJT) under the Research Institute for Science and Technology (RIST) of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), Plant Biology track students along with PUP Herbarium conducted a virtual plant exhibit via Zoom on September 30, 2021, entitled “Munting Luntian: Hubugin ang Kamalayan ukol sa mga Likas na Halaman sa Sintang Paaralan,” featuring the wayside plants inside the PUP-Mabini Campus.

The said exhibit was conducted amidst the pandemic situation together with their OJT adviser, Ma. Eleanor C. Salvador, other professors including Dr. Armin S. Coronado, Ms. Christine Joy S. Luna, Analette M. Guinto, and other PUP alumni to present the 20 wayside perennials of the university from the 1970s2000 onwards along with their botanical characteristics, economic and ecological importance, conservation and historical value, their distribution on the PUP campus, and their natural distribution through the Geographic Information System (GIS). Notable individuals such as Dr. Samuel M. Salvador, Mr. Siegfredo Calabig, and Mr. Tomas O. Testo, who witnessed the growth of these plants over the years, were also involved in the said exhibit. The students also grouped themselves into different committees named after parts of the plant using the Filipino language, such as Talutot (petals), Punla (seedlings), and Sanga (branch), in which each division played an important role in the success of the said exhibit. The event is divided into two parts, which are the launching of the virtual exhibit and the navigation of the virtual exhibit website. The website comprises the exhibit, information about the PUP herbarium, the distribution map of the twen-

AMC 2021

from page 4

ty (20) perennial plants, and their appreciation for the organizers of the said event. This can also be visited via https://sites.google.com/ view/munting-luntian/home. On this platform, they highlighted the Sacred Fig Tree, Kamansi, and the country’s national tree, Narra, in which they included interesting facts about the PUP’s plant biodiversity, their distinct characteristics, and videos of docents presenting them.

The exhibit aims to encourage the students to appreciate, value, and protect PUP’s floral biodiversity because they do not just have historical backgrounds to tell, but the community has benefited from them over the decades in various ways.

In an interview, Ms. Joanne Kim Tacleon, from BS BIO4-6PB stated “Malaki rin yung naging contribution niya [exhibit] sa knowledge ko especially na fascinated ako sa plant taxonomy, I was able to identify more plants whenever I do fieldwork or kahit kapag nasa labas lang ako ng bahay or papuntang work… You will [also] realize how mesmerizing yung aesthetic ng mga halaman and yung support na isinu-suffice niya sa ating lahat, living man o non-living,”

The event was attended by senior high school and undergraduate students, faculty members, alumni, and other PUP staff.

Moreover, ‘Team FunGIE’ during the interview, expressed their appreciation to institutions and people behind their feat including the DOST-PCIEERD for the funding and dissemination grant, the PUP for extending support, the chairman of the AMC 2021 Organizing Committee, Dr. Jennifer Luangsa-Ard, for helping them during their time in Thailand, and to their research adviser and co-adviser for supervising their research and accompanying them during the said event.

“As much as possible, try to look for agencies that provide financial funding for your research paper since doing research can be expensive and registering your paper for presentation online or on-site will cost you money. Remember that if there is an opportunity, don’t be afraid to grab it. This was our mindset before we applied for the

Pitching

from page 6

crease jellyfish-related fatalities.

Cawaling, one of the winners, to conduct and small laboratories could easily replicate it, thus, opening the door to its possible implementation in other poisonous animals.

“Competing with different colleges also means having different research ideas which brought the challenge to the next level. To be honest, I can still remember how pressured we were because we also had to compete with students from different PUP branches, and everyone brought their ‘A’ game during the competition,” Cawaling articulated as she shared the bright side of the competition through a good competitive spirit among peers. Moreover, Cawaling urged everyone to restore

Young Innovators program. Applying for the grant is already a huge step, don’t be sad if you are not accepted, at least you tried. There is nothing to lose if you aren’t accepted but you already lose your chance if you didn’t send your application,” said Espinosa when asked about his tips for students who aspire to join the same feat.

“Your research is worth to be presented at conferences. AMC is a great opportunityasitincorporatesdifferent researchers and studies of Mycology from numerous countries,”Garzon punctuated. Themed “Asian Mycology in the 21st Century: The New Generation,” the hybrid conference of AMC 2021 held at the Thailand Science Park Convention Center covered a wide range of topics from basic science to the applied aspects, focusing on young mycologists who are expected to be at the forefront of mycology in the future.

their passion for research and science despite the negative incidents brought on by the pandemic and hoped for the best as face-to-face classes are now slowly returning.

The university’s pitching competition with the theme “Science and Technology Research in the New Normal” encourages undergraduate students from various PUP colleges, branches, and campuses to compete and present scientific research proposals addressing a current societal concern, and the winning team receives financing incentives of around Php 35,000.

Overall, the first place was bagged by PUPMain BS Information Technology, followed by PUP- Sto. Tomas Campus BS Electronic Engineering and PUP-Main BS Physics as second and third placers, respectively.

TO THE GRADUATES OF BATCH 2021-2022

Congratulations!

MICROBIOLOGY

Abayon, Joshua O. *

Acuña, Earl Joseph Ej V.

Aduna, Hannah Grace S.

Agub, Jharmaine Kaye B.

Alera, Maria Criselda B.

Algenio, Christian Renz M.

Almeria, Denver Erick G.

Amo, Tatiana B.

Anore, Matt Jigen A.

Artap, Nina Kiana D.

Asignado, Jelenah Marisse C.

Aspiras, Milleanne R. *

Asuncion, Denise A.

Atad Jr., Edgardo A.

Bague, Ruella Mau C.

Bañares, Eza Mayria V.

Bancolita, Leah I.

Bancoro, Angelica Jill V.

Bentola, Rosemarie L.

Braza, Terence Marinelle S.

Caalim, Marlaise Shayne N.

Cabana, Trisha Jhoy I.

Cabutte, Janine Claire C.

Calachan, Hanah Joyce C.

Cantillano, Trisha Mae M. *

Cardenio, Tiffany Chloe C.

Cariaso, Chard Elson B.

Carmen, Christian Lyold M.

Carnaje, Ma. Melanie Dalaine D. **

Castro, Najela Leila D.

Co, Rufel Joy O.

Cruz, Noreen B.

David, Janella Rayne D.

De Castro, Licelyn M.

Delina, Alliza Marie P.

Del Mundo, Andrea Kim C. **

Desiderio, Raissa Bernadette T.

Dimailig, Chris John M.**

Ditason, Blessie Jane B.

Dulaca, Shiela Mae E.

Espinosa, Ghimel P.

Evangelista, Christian Lloyd R.

Fadrilan, Cristina Marie M.

Fernandez, John Mertz F.

Ferrer, Angelu Mae E.

Florendo, Kenneth O.

Fresnido, Jeri Anne O.

Galiza, Judy Anne V.

Garcia, Jonah Joshua A.

Garzon, Irah Faye B.

Jomoc, Patricia Mae M.

Juanga, Abegail G.

Juliano, Margelica Y.

Lacandula, Lovely May R.

Lachica, Catherine C.

Laguna, Kate L. *

Laurella, Raven Elyze E.

Laurena, Hannah Lorraine B.

Ligsay, Dominic P.

Lim, Louise Jennifer Y. *

Lipo, Maria Carmela R.

Llenares, Aira Michiko C.

Lopez, James Johnson DG

Lucero, Abigail Ray T. **

Lumabi, Ralph Emmanuel A. Magsino, Sheena Marie E. Mamhot, Marco C. Manalo, Arianne Joy I. Manimtim, Angela Faye M. Mapili, Maria Czarina C. Maramo, Alexandra Therese Mariano, Francis Mary Benedict E. Martin, Janelan M.

Martinez, Ralf Kerzzy M. Medina, Tj Marie P. Nacional, Abigail C. **

Narvacan, Keziah F. Oco, Neo S. **

Olmillo, Cokie R. Pamugas, Kysha Erika T. Paton-Og, Abegail P. Patriarca, Alaiza E. Perez, Carl Nicole D. Poche, Jubelita B.

Purgatorio, Fatima Aubrey Amor C. Ramos, Joshua Red M. Ramos, Justin Lorenz C. Real, Kristopher Lester E. *

Rebenque, Jon Dave T.

Reonal, Tricia Nicole R. Resurreccion, Lanilyn M. Rivera, Joshia Marie D. ** Sales, Renchie L. Salinog, Abigail B. Salvo, Kimberly A. Samaniego, Mico G. **

Sevilla, Paola P. **

Sinsioco, Danica Marie P. * Soriano, Vannette S. *

Tabarno, Jun Rey J. Talamisan, Joann L.

Tapalla, Ma. Angela Faye I.

Taquiqui, Arvin T.

Tarnate, Sharish Anne S. **

Tina, Dessiree Allyssa M. Togupen, Rona Alysza R. Tolentino, Abigail R. Tolentino, Christian SM.

Torres, Arren Mae D. Tuvera, Norilyn C.

Velasco, Joan Kaye P. **

Ventura, Gertrude Andrea A.

ANIMAL BIOLOGY

Aggabao, Marian Jeremy D. Baao, Louisse May M. Bacho, Hannah Aura A. Balais, Korrine G.

Bawi-In, Arianne Mae A. Bernabe, Jimiwell R. Bolima, Ma. Rema Danica P. Bondoc, Onemig P. Cabacungan, Angelic Kayte L. Cabacungan, Marites G.

Cawaling, Lenn Rose N. **

Concepcion, Zeaphanaih D.

Cruz, Napier Ethan L.

De Guzman, Sofia Hazel L.

De Las Alas, Lee Anne Shae C.

Del Rosario, Rio Carla E.

Eco, Wanna Kirsten

Ellorin, Rachel Joy S.

Escanilla, Carl Matthew V.

Espiritu, Abram Paul C.

Estipona, Duke Marcus G.

Fernandez, Shirwin G.

Formoso, Theodore Jon S.

Gabion, Mariane G.

Gabriel, Elijsha Meari A.

Gaspe, Jolissa Salvee A.

Gonzales, Audrey John P.

Gonzales, Ma. Adriene Joy P.

Gregorio, Jimson O.

Inocencio, Jelie Shaira S.

Laddaran, Martin Louie T.

Lobo, Roniezette A.

Manalastas, Cherrie Ann S.

Mesa, Troi Enrimel R.

Morada, Jenisa M.

Naig, Jenine Ann R.

Nanalis, Eurella Nicole C.

Pacba, Jose Gabriel S.

Paez, Lloyd Vincent P.

Pascual, Jan Ray M.

Remollena, Jaci J.

Rillo, Ramon Philip M.

Roderos, Arial Joy J.

Santelices, Rejoice L.

Siojo, Maricar Louise N.

Tadiosa, Trisha Almira B. **

Tolentino, Mark Lauren I.

Tuapen, Lucky Crizmar P.

Valledor, Lea Andrea S.

Vibar, Wilhelm Troy O.

PLANT BIOLOGY

Bautista, Gabrielle Angelo G.

Billete, Rove R.

Bumaat, Adrian S.

Dagami, Annabelle T.

De Jesus, Aldwin G.

Dela Cruz, Jeron S.

Figueroa, Renelyn Mae P.

Manuel, Ericka Cezz G.

Nierves, Jobelle D.

Oris, Angela P.

Pangilinan, Matthew Anthony R.

Pelisan, Dianne A.*

Resullar, Kit S.

Roque, Rica Mae S. **

Tacleon, Joanne Kim T.

Valdez, Rica Mae T.

Villasor, Abegail E.

* Cum Laude

** Magna Cum Laude

EDITORIAL

2022 Philippine Election: A battle between fact and fiction

The 2022 Philippine Elections became a hot pot for social media controversy and absurd proliferation of fake news, as our fact-checkers and journalists faced an unending challenge of discerning truths and magnifying factual information.

The Philippines and Social Media

With over 4.26 billion Filipino users, the Philippines ranked fourth in the world’s highest social media usage rate, according to Statista. Given how convenient and practical social media can be, its widespread use is hardly surprising. In a 2023 survey conducted by Meltwater, acquiring information is the primary reason for internet usage in Filipinos aged 16-64. They also use social media commonly to communicate with friends and families, research for instructions and guidelines in conducting activities, and even find ideas and inspirations. Thus, the impact of social media usage has immensely increased during the pandemic.

As a result of the implementation of physical distancing as a preventive measure for COVID-19, people resorted to social media. It also provided Filipinos with a great deal of entertainment as they introduced themselves in vlogging and becoming content creators in recent years. Platforms like Tiktok, Instagram, and Youtube aided us with entertaining contents to pass and forget the negative realms of this time. More importantly, this made social media an accessible platform for staying informed about COVID-19 updates, quarantine restrictions, societal issues, politics, and even the recent national elections.

2022 Philippines Elections

Last May 2022, with the voter turn-out of an estimated 56 million from 67 million registered individuals, Filipinos cast their votes in choosing the new roster of government officials for the next six years. Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP) Bongbong Marcos and Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) Sara Duterte won the Presidential and Vice-Presidential bids respectively, which everyone expected them to carry the baggage of bringing the Philippines back to its golden era.

Aside from the lustrous controversies and repercussions after the proclamation of winners, what made the 2022 Philippine Election gleamed brightly was the clear representation of candidates and their platforms through social media posting; a technologized way to hyphen the hearts of masses. When the campaign period started, the power of social media was directly radiated in the campaign strategies and paraphernalias of the running officials. We often heard about their promotional videos and advertisements played on our television, heard on radio, and seen on the internet. Some gave honest testimonials to the candidates, others have conducted one-to-one interviews or charity works even before the period, and some influencers and content creators are being hired

for further encouragement and wider reach. Who can’t also forget how social media became a powerful medium in sharing different posters and schedules of rallies and gatherings for the supporters and fans (from near or far provinces) of different candidates and how the cities in Metro Manila were once converted into meaningless needles just to celebrate and gather millions of people. Indeed, a vehicle for easy transfer of information was born!

Reporting: A challenge for fact-checkers

However, with the proliferation of social media during the recent election came the prevalence of fake news as the 2022 Pulse Asia survey revealed that internet and social media is the leading source of fake news and disinformation. Even months before, numerous incidents of black propaganda and inane spread of fake news circulated in the heaps of social media linings attacking prominent people concerning their personal bet. This also paved the usage of the internet as a platform to unfurl blackmails against electoral candidates most especially in the highest seat in the government.

As Facebook became a prominent social media platform, a new study confirmed that it is also the “worst perpetrator of misinformation”. Users can easily

post and share false information and leave biased comments towards other users. There are also reports about internet trolls who are creating erroneous reporting to undermine and discredit the credentials of the opposition, changing the spectra of truthful information to hoax, deception and rumors. Although fake news has always been an unending problem in our country ever since the technology advances, its impact has intensified during the 2022 national elections; thus, making the news coverage a hurdle for reporters and watchdogs.

Fact-checkers and the golden role Journalists and fact-checkers are essential in producing well-informed voters. It is imperative that we [Filipino voters] are well-informed with the truth as they choose to vote for the leaders of our country. We provide Filipinos with knowledge about a candidate’s background, stand on societal issues, and their advocacies. Also, we act as the voice for the voiceless, a weapon for the weaknesses, and a catalyst for nation-building and change, making our stand remains the most reliable source of information. The proliferation of social media bombarded us with different sources of information of which not everything we see is factual and credible.

Seven colors and a stain:

Philippine folklore began to flourish in the mid 1800’s when Babaylans (natural women who have a power of procreation) and Asogs (male deities who have homosexual traits) dominated a colorful story of heroic anti-oppression against colonizers. There are historical evidences that Asogs have cross-dressed and imitated the appearance of a Babaylan, and developed into a heroine, making their lives become a present icon for our Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, Aromantic (LGBTQIA+) Community. However, the divine power of Babaylans and Asogs to bring peace in the community was shut down by the Spaniards as they desecrate Philippines influence and tradition; this scene complemented how the LGBTQIA+ Community from our generation today, experienced a harsh discrimination against the society who confronts their grooming as well as the unending bullying in schools or workplaces.

A graduation is supposed to be the happiest highlight for students as they march with flying colors and reap the fruits of their years in high school, but for the story of four transgender students from two public high schools in NCR, it was entirely an anxious nightmare. They were prohibited to grace their graduation rites unless they cut their hair, remove their girly clothes and wear Barong Tagalog or something masculine in form. Their situation opposed the DepEd Order No, 32 s. 2017 or the Gender-Responsive Basic Education Policy wherein the institution should promote equality, equity, gender sensitivity, non-discrimination and human rights for all most especially

to students. Also, under this memorandum, students are allowed to wear clothes that are aligned and reflective to their personal gender identity and expression, in attending school activities like graduation or moving up rites. A massive concern and huge awareness in social media became the highlight of numerous LGBT organizations and advocates including the Miss Trans Global 2020 Mela Habijan, as she, herself, is a loud and proud member of the community. She supported their fight by posting their graduation pictures as a reminder of their worthiness. She even called the attention of the Department of Education and fortunately, their voice became the loudest revolt. The schools allowed them

to wear their togas even though it is against their rules and holding regulations. And just like a happy ending, the four transgender women have received the diploma and graduation they deserve, with their eyes on fleek, and swaying dress walking down the aisle. Indeed, a happy graduation for them! After seeing their courageous fight, every time I go to school, I become fascinated with how my fellow students, regardless of their gender identity, wear all their fancy outfits. Prolly thinking, I also imagine myself wearing those, like how the four transgender students confidently slayed it. I even visualize the outfit I will be wearing five months from now just to express the grooming I want for my grad-

mROTC: Replacing pens with rifles

Despite the current crisis and subpar quality of the Philippines’ education system, the government kept pushing for the reinstatement of Republic Act No. 7077 or “Citizen Armed Force or Armed Forces of The Philippines Reservist Act”. With an allocated budget of P61.2 billion, this act proposes to reinstate the mandatory Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (mROTC) as a requirement in tertiary education. Such an enormous amount of taxpayers’ money will be wasted on the unjustified revival of mROTC when this fund could be better used to enhance and strengthen our education system.

Before 2001, the Philippines had a mandatory ROTC program, but the unmasking of abuse and suffering endured by cadets while undergoing ROTC training led to its abolishment. The last straw in the long list of flaws in the ROTC training grounds was the death of the UST student Mark Welson Chua at the hands of cadet officers after he revealed the truth behind the unethical practices in the university’s program. After his exposé, Chua vanished and eventually turned up floating and dead in the Pasig River, with his body encased in carpet and face taped over. His passing sparked widespread indignation, which eventually led the government to preserve ROTC as an elective component of the National Service

Training Program Act of 2001 (R.A. 9163) rather than make it mandatory. NSTP offers the students the choice to select from its three components—ROTC, Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS), and Literacy Training Service (LTS). President Bongbong Marcos, Vice-President Sarah Duterte, and other senators declared their support for reinstating the mandatory ROTC program due to the low number of students interested in it, the requirement to train college students for disaster preparedness, and the necessity of disciplining and educating young people to foster their inherent patriotism. However, such arguments are incomparable to the underlying justification for the initial abolition of mandatory ROTC in 2001. The government ought to invest greater emphasis into refining and strengthening the current NSTP and its components, as opposed to advocating for the ROTC to once again be made mandatory for all college students. They should instead focus on addressing the deeper causes behind the fall in the number of students enlisting in the ROTC program. The lack of an optimal program orientation, in my opinion, should be addressed as one of the initial factors. Students are discouraged from enrolling in an NSTP

program if they are not aware of its curriculum. How can one explore NSTP options when there is little to no information about them? Students will feel less alienated from the ROTC program and might eventually be persuaded to join it, provided that the program is laid out in greater detail. In addition, the government is keen to re-establish the mandatory ROTC to better prepare students for disasters and calamities, although this training should be in the CWTS component of the NSTP. They should concentrate on enhancing the current NSTP ensuring that students under CWTS have practical training to better prepare for disasters rather than mandating all students to sign up for ROTC.

During my CWTS program in PUP, we only had lectures, exams and PUP campus clean-up served as our final requirement. CWTS should have encouraged us to be more involved and make contributions to the improvement of our community, but regrettably, we never really had the option to do so through the program. As students, we should be given easier access to community activities where we can volunteer and lend a hand to encourage other students to participate and contribute to the community. Volunteering will significantly strengthen our pa-

uation. But looking at the situation of our LGBTQIA+ community (I am a member, too) especially in students every single day, made me scared of being at my best. Although the schools permitted them to graduate with freedom, let’s not forget how they trampled our liberty to express and show ourselves. This is the reason why the government should implement a stronger national law that will truly protect our rights! That the current bill or law is not enough to say that we are truly free since there are lots of demeaning stories of discrimination and bullying against our fellows. I believe what we need is to break the stereotyping and normalize everyone’s way of expression. Likewise, a strong acceptance to our society needs to be pushed in order to lessen the statistics, and the members can freely walk the street without thinking a prejudice blocking their way. And I think that’s one way to sustain and reclaim our freedom! As Asogs and Babaylans fought back for raising their identity, our modern icons of queerness must also raise our rainbow flag so high. Even though a stain gave marks to our unending battle for an anti-discriminating country, we are here in this world, to claim and express our spaces, making that stain, a motivation to fight, and not a scar to live.

triotism and, most likely, deepen it as well as our respect for human rights and devotion to our Constitution. Supporters of mandatory ROTC advocate for it for the same reasons. Why is the mROTC program being reinstated when other programs besides military training are capable of instilling similar ideals in students? The foundation of the government’s defense for reinstating the mROTC is mainly reliant on components currently included in the NSTP. Such overlapping programs would be a waste of taxpayers’ money. Additionally, there is a chance that the platform will serve as an outlet for unethical behaviors including abuse, corruption, and violence, especially if the system’s obvious weaknesses are still not addressed. Even without the mandatory ROTC, schools and campuses stayed tainted by such wicked deeds, whether they occur within the current ROTC program or with hazing within fraternities and sororities. Schools and campuses should serve as students’ safe spaces for learning. If we reinstate the mandatory ROTC and disregard the widespread unethical behavior in the earlier ROTC program, campus and school violence will only get worse, jeopardizing more students, youth, and the future of our nation.

Perception of cross-dressing and discrimination against LGBTQIA+ community

| ROMMEL ABAN

QUORUM SENSING | MARIA JESUSA LOPIDO

The ‘New Normal’ Isn’t Very New Anymore EQUILIBRIUM

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused the shift from traditional face-to-face classes to online classes, a.k.a. the new normal. Two years later, attending online classes isn’t anymore the challenge, but rather the adjustments we must all face as we transition back to face-to-face classes.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought the world to a standstill as it gave numerous limitations that resulted in the shift of our education system from traditional face-to-face classes to online classes, the so-called ‘new normal’ in education. Classes went from being conducted physically to being conducted virtually. Undoubtedly, this was a challenge to the students and the professors alike.

In 2020, the university implemented the Flexible Technology Learning (FlexTel) approach where it provides the students to choose between two modes of learning: online and offline modes.

For the students in the online mode, it meant encouraging attendance in synchronous classes and independent learning during asynchronous classes. On the other hand, students who chose the offline mode received printed copies of the modules that will be accomplished and passed during the end of the semester.

For the students, the new normal means adjusting to a new way

of learning. Learning in the new normal is less interactive and students must be more independent. For the online mode of learning, discipline, and self-motivation are needed to stay focused and engaged during synchronous classes. Additionally, online learning requires a functional gadget and reliable internet connection, both of which costs money. Amid a pandemic where our economy is suffering, many Filipinos would’ve preferred to allot that money for primary necessities. Even so, it is not a guarantee that one will experience a fast internet connection. Meanwhile, professors also had difficulty adapting their teaching methods to an online platform. They needed to become familiar with the technology and create interactive activities that could keep their students interested. It was also challenging for them to monitor the progress of students.

Despite all these challenges, students, professors, and even university administrators worked resiliently together to make online learning

successful, or at least make the most out of it. However, learning in this setup is limited, especially for courses requiring laboratory classes and fieldwork. Thus, there is a dire need for the resumption of f2f classes, as PUP President Dr. Manuel Muhi announced last April 4, 2022, the implementation of limited f2f classes in the first semester of the coming academic year. After two academic years of online classes, the ‘new normal’ setup isn’t new. Attending online classes has become a routine for most students. As we prepare ourselves to shift again to face-to-face classes, the challenge we now have is the numerous changes students will face and adjust to. From attending classes in the comfort of our own homes or workplace, or any place we find ourselves to be, we now must bear with our country’s transportation system to be able to attend physical classes. Also, we must prepare physically and financially to overcome the daily commute and traffic or another option is to look for apartments and dormitories

MAGNIFICATION

where convenience is prioritized. From being able to record lecture videos for replaying, we will be attending onsite lectures that need better focus and attention. More importantly, we must always be careful to continue following safety protocols to avoid contracting COVID. The shift from online classes back to traditional face-to-face classes is indeed a long and challenging process that requires consolidated effort from all its stakeholders. On the good side, it is also an experience to look forward to. Besides, this challenge is something we all must adapt to become better biologists and students. Face-to-face classes would mean a more holistic and effective way of learning. Laboratory courses, particularly the BS Biology program, can experience laboratory classes and fieldwork again, giving a chance to meet new people and immerse oneself in PUP culture. As scholars of the nation, it is also a chance to know the community we are supposed to give back our learnings in biology to.

| JENNYLYN BERNARDO

Calibration of the out-of-focus disposition: Is research worth allocating millions?

In 2013, Cynthia Villar, a senatorial candidate from Team PNoy, drew flak for her ‘out-of-touch’ claim that Filipino nurses did not necessarily need a nursing degree, as many of them simply ended up working as room nurses and caring for the elderly. A few days later, she apologized to the public for offending them with her remarks, stating that she had not intended to diminish the value of nurses or the healthcare industry as a whole. However, a few years after this incident, she has once again drawn the wrath of netizens for making another “insensitive” and “out-of-touch” remark against research. On October 9, 2019, during a budget hearing, Senator Cynthia Villar slammed the Department of Agriculture after discovering that the majority of National Corn Program funding would go towards research. In spite of not knowing what research actually entails, she boldly asserted her intelligence by labeling this action “crazy” and calling herself smart. Hence, the question is: is this really an overallocation of funds or a reflection of how poorly valued research is in the country?

Raising agricultural productivity is one of the most pressing issues confronting developing countries. Agriculture, which is the foundation of the economy in many countries, including the Philippines, requires research on a wide range of subjects. Given the growing population and rising food demand, agricultural research arms farmers with information that enables them to make smarter decisions, which may result in higher profitability. Farmers who are up to date on the most recent findings in plant genetics, pest management, and soil health use this information to maximize production, boost yields, and cut costs.

Since many of the new technologies, inputs, and produc-

PULSE PACER

tion methods that raise agricultural productivity are developed through agricultural research, agricultural research has a significant role to play in achieving these goals. In order to ensure global food security, agricultural research is therefore crucial, and the value of funding this research cannot be overstated.

To find new crop varieties resistant to harmful pests, diseases, and harsh climatic conditions, researchers collaborate closely with farmers. This advancement is crucial because it guarantees crop production will continue and prevents catastrophic crop failures that could cause a food shortage. Additionally, the development of high-yield crops allows farm-

ers to grow more food on a smaller amount of land, improving food security and stimulating the economy.

Hearing Senator Cynthia Villar’s infamous “baliw na baliw kayo sa research” line must have been humiliating and discouraging for Filipino researchers and farmers. I was completely taken aback and perplexed by the senator’s statement because she is supposed to be the one who should have recognized the significance of research given her position. This, I believe, exemplifies the egocentrism and incompetence of the vast majority of political leaders. It should go without saying that the best course of action for us Filipinos is to vote wisely in order

to prevent the election of uneducated politicians, thereby putting an end to ignorance and apathy. I believe there are many more deserving individuals who are more knowledgeable in the field and can provide more intelligent solutions. If we continue to keep this in mind, perhaps more individuals will decide to trust and invest in research, which will ideally result in a constructive change in our society. In this regard, I will take Senator Cynthia Villar’s statement about some people becoming crazy with research to be positive since I am willing to go crazy for it if it means ensuring food security, economic prosperity, and global sustainability.

Are you in favor of raising the General Weighted Average (GWA) for Latin Honors based from the revised 2019 PUP Student Handbook?

73% 27%

FANTASTIC

Bloom & Decay: Marvelous Potential of Fungi

By Maria Erika Sualibio

When we hear the word “fungi” perhaps most of us immediately picture molds and mushrooms, traditionally associated with food. However, the immense diversity and unique properties of these eukaryotic organisms allow them to occupy numerous ecological and economic roles. Amidst the common fungal species and their proven significance, Rhizopus oryzae and Ganoderma sessile are now persistently thriving not only in decaying matters but also in the research community.

For several years, Ganoderma has been used in traditional medicine and currently gained the interest of the pharmaceu tical industry. It is also known as “reishi” or “lingzhi” and is often prescribed as an anti-inflammatory treatment or as an immunity enhancer in Eastern traditional medicine [1][2]. In fact, this genus is also hailed as the “mushroom of immortality” since it has been used for over 2,000 years in Asian countries. Reishi products are made from grounded fruiting bodies, typically prescribed as pills or teas. However, its taxonomy is still complicated, where the taxon name Ganoderma lucidum is usually associated with laccate (shiny) Ganoderma species. This genus is extensively diverse and globally distributed. Ganoderma spp. cause white rot on various tree species, hence identified as wood decay fungi. Focusing on G. sessile, it is saprobic and parasitic with medium to large, kidney-shaped, reddish-brown cap and ellipsoid spores [3].

Rhizopus oryzae is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) filamentous fungus with a remarkable ability to metabolize various carbon sources [4]. It is significantly distributed in the environment, especially in tropical and sub-tropical areas. R. oryzae can be isolated in

various substrates such as soils, vegetables, fruits, and seeds. Given its ability to produce several bioproducts, this species undoubtedly gained recognition and great commercial interest. Being a GRAS, it has been helpful in producing alcoholic beverages and oriental traditional foods such as tempeh, peka, ragi, and loog-pang. Moreover, R. oryzae has long been utilized in producing organic acids like lactic acid and fumaric acid, and recently a considerable yield of gallic acid, essential in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. It has also been employed in the production of volatile compounds and bioethanol, a great alternative to conventional fuels. More importantly, R. oryzae has also been proven effective in enzyme production, including tannin acyl hydrolase (tannase), amylases, philic polysaccharide pro duced by the deacetyla tion of chitin. Chitosan is already proven to be essential in the pharmaceutical and food industries. Currently, the primary sources of chitosan are the exoskele ton of various crustaceans and insects [8]. But as curi ous minds continue to shine light on mycolo gy, unique applica tions of fungal chitosan are now

being recognized. Chitosan exhibits remarkable properties, particularly excellent chelation behavior, high reactivity, and high selectivity towards heavy metal ions [9]. Case in point: young innovators known as Team FunGIE – Ghimel P. Es pinosa, Irah Faye B. Garzon, and Raven Elyze E. Laurella found a way to effectively utilize the fungal chitosan derived from R. oryzae and G. sessile in addressing heavy metal pollution.

The main objective of their study titled “Fungal Chitosan-Based Microbeads: A Heavy Metal Soil-Based Biosorbent of Cu (II), Pb (II), Cr (II)” is to inno vate fungal chitosan microbeads that serve as efficient adsorbents of heavy metals. This is highly significant in agriculture and aquaculture since a heavy metal-free environment reduces crop growth suppression and heavy metal con

ment (DOST-PCIEERD) in 2020. What an inspiration, indeed! Despite multiple efforts to enrich our understanding of mycology, this field still needs to be explored to uncover the potential of various fungal species – regardless of being known or unknown. We can do this by embracing our curiosity and seizing opportunities; as Team FunGIE said, “Don’t be scared to wonder, question, experiment, and be guided.Yourresearchisworthyourtime, effort, stress, and budget. Also,make every step along the way enjoyable. Be sure to enjoy the things you do and be eager to learn new things along the way. Remember, learning is not a race but an oppor

PUP Biology students receive grants from YIP 2020 and 2021 (from left - Raven Elyze Laurella, Irah Faye Garzon,

FANTASTIC FUNGI

Beyond the Plate: The Surprising Uses of Oyster Mushrooms

By Riza Montemayor

We’ve been eating mushrooms since the earliest history. In fact, different cultures and civilizations have held various beliefs about its benefits. In ancient Greece, they believed that mushrooms enhanced the strength of their warriors during battles, while Romans even considered it the ‘food of the Gods.’ The Chinese have treasured mush rooms as food for longevity, an ‘exilir of life’[6], while Japanese emperors be lieved it could enhance sexual desire and were therefore cultivat ed in secret, heavily guarded locations[2].

plate.

Oyster mushrooms are a species of the genus Pleurotus and recognized for their important medicinal properties. It contains high concentrations of powerful antioxidants such as phenolic compounds[1], ergothioneine[3], and glutathione[3]. These compounds provide protection against several degenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

In recent years, studies have also shown that this mushroom

natural fire resistance, and superior insulation properties. One research indicates that oyster mushroom-based insulation can replace tradition al foam insulation that often contributes to carbon emissions[7]. This innovation could revolutionize conventional con struction materi als and contribute towards a more environmentally friendly future[8].

Recently, a group of young innova tors called Team BiDaLight from the Polytechnic Univer sity of the Philippines has taken the potential of oyster mushrooms to a new level by exploring their potential in generating electricity. The team consists of James Matthew Hile, Rogiebelle Caliao, and Rheinne Sanchez, who are pursuing their BS Biology degree with a in Microbiology. Their innovative project titled, “BiDaLight (Bio-Derived

Light): Spent Mushroom

Substrate (SMS) powered micro-

(YIP) of the Department of Science and Technology. The team, together with their adviser, Dr. Lourdes Alvarez, and co-adviser, Chester Deocaris, aims to create a fully fungal-derived microbial fuel cell. This will provide an environmentally friendly and sustainable way to generate electricity using the Spent Mushroom Substrate (SMS) of P. ostreatus (Oyster Mushroom). This innovative approach to energy production has the potential to revolutionize the industry, paving the way for a clean and cost-effective energy source that could benefit communities worldwide. The versatility of oyster mushrooms has captured the attention of scientists and innovators worldwide. From their medicinal properties to their potential in the construction and energy industries, these mushrooms offer incredible possibilities. So the next time you sauté some oyster mushrooms for your dinner, remember the potential they hold. Who knows what other groundbreaking uses we may discover in the future? Perhaps we’ll even see mushroom power plants sprouting up all over the world.

Garzon, Ghimel Espinosa, James Matthew Hile, Rogiebelle Caliao, Rheinne Sanchez) | Photo By Cristina Marie Fadrilan

ious social media platforms with increased prevalence during March every year. Its message may seem plain as day, but the meaning is rooted in a revolutionary movement of women against notions and stereotypes that confine them in society.

Historically, sex and class exhibit parallelism where women were perceived as a subordinate class, subjugated by a dominant class of men[1]. After years of exclusion and degradation, a movement to recognize women as equal to men was finally born. Together with the staggering activities and protests during the formative years of this movement, women fostered a new narrative redefining their worth and role in societal progress.

National Women’s Month celebration introduced a new theme for 2023-2028: WE for Gender Equality & Inclusive Society, marking a significant milestone in women empowerment. Not only does it amplify the advocacy, but it also perpetuates the successes accomplished during the 2016-2022 theme of WE Make CHANGE Work for Women[2]. Indeed, the days when women were deprived of their rights, bound to household duties, and robbed of control over their lives are long gone. Empowered Filipinas no longer allow archaic social norms to limit their access to male-dominated arenas. Once they grab an opportunity, best believe that they will bloom unstoppably. In support of the celebration of National Women’s Month, here are some of the notable empowered Filipinas in their respective fields.

Hidilyn Diaz

Despite the bullies weighing her down, Hidilyn Diaz remained motivated to lift and represent women in sports. This 32-year-old Filipina weightlifter from Zamboanga City made a historic event by being the first female athlete who secured an Olympic medal for the Philippines. Diaz secured a silver medal at the 2016 Summer Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, under the 53 kg weightlifting category. She was also the first Filipino to bring home an Olympic weightlifting medal[3]. Diaz also bagged the country’s first-ever Olympic gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics under the 55 kg weightlifting category. She once again dominated the 55 kg category in the recently con cluded 2022 Weightlift pionships, where she won the elu sive world title and three gold medals[4]. Her histor ic reign in weightlifting is more than enough to prove that women can’t be dragged down that easily; in fact, she con-

halawin

tinues to rise above chauvinism in sports. She is now preparing to compete and recapture the gold medal in Paris 2024[5].

Apo Whang Od

If you wish to delve deeper into the rich culture of Kalinga, you must visit Apo Whang Od, also known as Maria Oggay. She is the oldest and last Filipino tribal tattoo artist or mambabatok from Buscalan, Kalinga. Despite residing in a remote area, her skills in hand-tapping tattoos on skin have attracted visitors globally. She ed her career at age of 16, thus making her the first and only female mambabatok during her time. traditionally inking indigenous tattoos that allow the Filipinos to reconnect with our history, Apo Whang Od received the Dangal ng Haraya award in 2018 and is currently being proposed to be recognized as a National Artist.

She may be the oldest mambabatok at the age of 106, but the ink of Filipino identity she established will surely not make her the last.

Catriona Gray

Pageants and beauty queen competitions gave the busy roads of the Philippines a lull, especially when Catriona Gray retrieved the Miss Universe title in 2018. She is undeniably worthy of her title, but beneath her beauty is a passionate voice. Catriona refuted the preconceived notions about being “just a beauty queen” and a model. Instead, she used her platform to amplify her voice about education’s significance in building equality. Even before her reign as Miss Universe, she had always been passionate about inspiring children to explore their full potential and battle against ignorance. She believes that children who are considered the country’s future can build a nation where people can have proper representation. Catriona demonstrated the attitude of a queen through her service and advocacies for human rights and equality. Her purpose-driven life beyond the runway is truly inspiring to everyone.

Illustrations by Audrey Castillo

Ana Patricia

One of the influential women who rose during the height of the pandemic is Ana Patricia Non. She initi ated and organized the Maginhawa Community Pantry to help unfortu nate people during the pandemic. Starting out as a simple gesture of charity sparked volun teerism, turning it into a nationwide movement. The small bamboo food cart with the sign, “Take according to what you need. Give according to what you can” contained canned goods, vegeta bles, and instant noodles. After sharing this initiative on social media, monetary and in-kind donations overflowed, eventually prompting the rise of community pantries nationwide. Ana’s charitable act paved the way for her recognition as Asia’s Most Influential PH in 2021. Despite being an ordinary Filipino citizen, her leadership exhibited that only a small act of kindness is needed to create a ripple effect. Currently, over 5,000 community pantries are distributed in different provinces[12].

Fe Del Mundo

Leni Robredo

When Taylor Swift said, “I’d be a fearless leader, I’d be an alpha type” surely, former Vice President (VP) Leni Robredo took notes. Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo became the 14th Vice President of the Philippines in 2016. With her experience in various nongovernment organizations (NGOs), the Office of the Vice President (OVP) took up a fundamental role in alleviating the lives of the country’s marginalized sector through its advocacies [14]. During her term, the OVP received the highest audit rating from the Commission of Audit (COA) for three consec utive years. In particu lar, the OVP received an “unqualified opinion” on its fi nancial report from 2018 to 2020 [15]. In six years of of fice, she demon strated exemplary public service through her flagship Angat Buhay program. As of 2022, the program has already helped

622,000 families in 223 communities nationwide. This nationwide initiative is mainly driven by donations from the private sector and her partnership with 372 organizations. Angat Buhay focused on six key advocacy areas: public education, rural development, food security and nutrition, women empowerment, universal healthcare, and housing and resettlement. Moreover, she also exhibited a competent COVID-19 pandemic response by launching the Bayanihan E-Konsulta, Vaccine Express, Community Learning Hubs, and Community Mart [16]. With her long list of achievements and experiences, she embarked on the 2022 presidential race, where she got the second highest number of votes [17]. Nonetheless, she continuously demonstrates that a woman can still make an impact regardless of whether she holds a position.

Dr. Fe Del Mundo best exemplified that women can progress in science and technology (S&T). She established her legacy, particularly in the field of medicine. She is known to be the first woman pediatrician who attended Harvard Medical School in

1936. Being deeply involved in pediatrics, she founded the first pediatric hospital in the Philippines, initially called the Children Medical Center, now known as the Fe Del Mundo Medical Center. Her studies were also recognized as the basis for the invention of the first incubator and jaundice-relieving device. With her contributions, she received the Elizabeth Blackwell Award as a “Woman Doctor of World Renown,” the Ramon Magsaysay Award for “Outstanding Public Service,” and was recognized as “Most Outstanding Pediatrician and Humanitarian” through the 15th International Congress of Pediatrics Award in 1977. Her achievements are more than enough to prove her significance in S&T but to add the icing on the cake of her “firsts”, she was also the first woman to be conferred the title of National Scientist of the Philippines in 1980 [18].

Maria Ressa

Living in a democratic country where people’s voices are ironically being silenced, the efforts of Maria Ressa to safeguard freedom of speech are genuinely worth celebrating. Her courage in fighting for press freedom became her ticket to getting the Nobel Peace Prize in 2021. She previously worked as a local correspondent for Cable News Network (CNN), focusing on the rise of terrorism in Southeast Asia. She became a teacher, author, CNN Bureau Chief, and ABS-CBN Head of News and Current Events. With her expertise in journal ism, she co-founded the online news site Rappler where she solidified her commit ment to de

These are only a few among the empowered women who constantly challenge their predetermined role in society. Every March, the celebration of women raises awareness about women’s daily struggles. Remember, it costs us nothing to appreciate and empower every woman from all walks of life. May this month be a reminder that even though progress can already be seen, there is still much to improve to achieve equality in all genders and foster an inclusive society. So if you also want to make a legacy, takethatleapandkeep raising the bar! As the new phrase goes, “Ang babae ay hindi lámang,kundilamáng.”

fending the freedom of expression. She also exposed the abuse of authority during the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte, with more focus on the injustices in the “War on Drug” campaign. She also documented how fake news and propaganda circulated through social media [13]. With her 2021 Nobel Peace Prize award, Maria Ressa just proved that even an iron hand can’t dent a woman’s courage.

The high CosT of WaTeR

Why the Kaliwa Dam Project Should Be Reconsidered?

The Sierra Madre mountain range is the largest remaining rainforest in the Philippines that stretches from Cagayan to Quezon province. It serves as a crucial watershed that provides water to agricultural lands and numerous communities in the lowlands. This mountain range is also home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna including rare Rafflesia, golden-crowned flying fox, and our critically endangered Philippine Eagle. But despite its undeniable beauty and significance, the Sierra Madre mountain range now faces a looming threat of destruction due to the proposed Kaliwa Dam project.

The Kaliwa Dam project is part of the Build, Build, Build program of the former president, Rodrigo Duterte and it involves a Php18.7 billion loan agreement from China. This project is expected to

of this project urge its immediate implementation so that Filipinos will not suffer another water crisis. However, critics have warned about the long-term, irreversible environmental damage it may cause to the Sierra Madre and its rich biodiversity.

This project is set to be constructed within the Kaliwa watershed forest reserve, a designated natural wildlife sanctuary that allows animals to have a safe spot to breed and comfortably survive.

Conservation groups, such as the Haribon Foundation, have warned that the construction of the dam could lead to the extinction of countless species of plants and animals, including many endemic species found in the Sierra Madre region[5]. These include the critically endangered tree species of Red Lauan (Shorea negrosensis), White Lauan (Shorea contorta), Mayapis (Shorea palosapis), Bagtikan

(Acerodon jubatus), and Philippine warty pig (Sus philippensis). All these species rely on the preservation of the extensive lowland and montane forests of Sierra Madre for their survival, making the Kaliwa Dam project’s impact on the environment a matter of grave concern.

The Kaliwa Dam will also threaten to displace the Dumagat-Remontado indigenous communities in the mountain[5]. These communities have called the Sierra Madre their home for generations and have deep cultural roots and livelihoods tied to their ancestral land. The construction of the dam will flood their ancestral land, leaving as many as 14,000 households displaced and in need of new housing[1]. This forced relocation will disrupt their way of life and also takes away their connection to the land, which holds a special significance to their culture.

By Riza Montemayor

‘Karding’, which is the strongest storm to hit the Philippines in 2022, the Sierra Madre range provided essential protection against the devastating effects of the typhoon[3]. However, the construction of Kaliwa dam will remove this natural defense and could bring severe flooding and endanger the life of millions of people.

The creation of new dams in a country experiencing water shortage may appear to be an ideal solution. However, its potential long-term consequences will reveal that this so-called solution will not address the problem and only make the conditions worse for the Philippines. The proposed Kaliwa dam may offer a reliable source of water for drinking and irrigation purposes, but it also violates legal procedures and the Philippine constitution, poses a significant threat to the environment and ecosystems, and goes against the national interests of the country. As responsible citizens, we need to urge those in power to engage in genuine discussions and demand a greener approach that doesn’t compromise our natural and cultural resources. More importantly, we must ensure that our actions do not lead to irreversible harm to our planet or the diverse communities that call it home.

MOSQUIRIX VACCINE:

The beginning of a real combat against Malaria

By Kate Monica M. Sta. Clara

Itchy, puffy, or hard, reddish to reddish-brown bumps, small blisters, and dark spots are common signs of mosquito bites. Who would’ve thought that an itchy, inflamed bump on the skin due to the body’s reaction to the saliva of a female bloodsucker may carry an infection that could lead to a more serious disease?

Malaria is one of those mosquitoborne diseases that is caused by parasites carried by mosquitoes; although preventable and treatable, it is considered lethal and has been infecting primarily children. Thus, the approval of the first malaria vaccine has “Changed the conversation about whether vaccines were feasible for malaria,” says Dyann Wirth, a malaria researcher from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

After more than three decades of vaccine development, the RTS,S/AS01 (RTS,S), or Mosquirix as known in the market, has been approved as the first

malaria vaccine and the first ever parasitic vaccine by the World Health Organization (WHO). John Bawa, the director of malaria vaccine implementation at a global non-profit organization PATH in Accra, Africa, says it is a “great relief” to have their vaccine finally.

Mosquirix (RTS,S) is a preerythrocytic recombinant protein vaccine that acts against the Plasmodium falciparum, which is considered the world’s deadliest malaria parasite and found to be most prevalent in African region with around 228 million cases in 2020, owning the 95% of the cases and mortality rate of 62% on the same year according to WHO. Based on a study, children aged six weeks to 17 months are the target age range Mosquirix can protect against malaria on the first dose. Three injections at monthly intervals are advisable for administration; however, the vaccine should be used based on recommendations considering the epidemiological information

on P. falciparum in various geographical areas.

The vaccine was initially developed by the British pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) in 1987. It was in 2014 when Mosquirix has completed its phase III clinical trial, yet, the WHO did not give a full recommendation to roll out the vaccine due to concerns about safety and efficiency. Alternatively, in 2019 a largescale pilot study was conducted wherein three countries, Kenya, Ghana, and Malawi, introduced and administered one to two vaccine doses to more than a million children. This pilot study provided enough data on the safety and implementation feasibility of the vaccine.

In terms of efficiency rate, the vaccine was described as not perfect and disappointing due to a lower efficacy rate compared to measles and polio vaccines. Yet truth be told, the malaria parasite is a challenging target due to its frequent change in

surface proteins and continuous reproduction. On that account, vaccine availability has become a “total game changer,” said Dr. Rose Jalang’o of the National Vaccines and Immunization Program at the Ministry of Health in Kenya.

Currently, GSK has promised to manufacture 4 million doses, while 6 million, and 8 million doses in 2024 and 2025, respectively. With the increasing demand for vaccines, the GSK partnered with Bharat Biotech, a biotechnology company based in India, that will soon lead the technology for manufacture after the transfer of GSK. Furthermore, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, based in Geneva, Switzerland, would open an application for financial support for countries that want the vaccine, particularly those areas with a high risk of malaria

Navigating the COVID-19 Vaccine Landscape: A Breakdown ofTypes and Reactions

By Arjin P. Callada | Jaira Berioso

On the 30th of January 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a public health emergency of international concern as death increased due to COVID-19, which originated in Wuhan, China. The global outbreak of COVID-19 has been described as one of the most lethal viral pandemics in modern history up to the present. The virus was first identified as a causative agent of pneumonia and was recognized as a novel coronavirus (nCoV), lately named severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The vaccines were sent to the Philippines on March 4, 2021, to combat COVID-19. People who received the COVID-19 immunization shot may have adverse effects

such as fever, headaches, lethargy, and soreness at the injection site. The vaccination program for the vaccine to prevent covid-19 will begin as soon as it is produced, just as the disease began to spread globally. Sinovac started developing a coronavirus vaccine in January 2020. The vaccine is inactivated and requires two doses for adults aged 18 and above. However, antibody levels decrease after three months. The vaccine’s efficacy against COVID-19 was 65.03% for adults aged 18-59, and a different study showed lower antibody effectiveness in older patients, averaging 85.3% compared

to 97.4% in adults.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first vaccine, Pfizer, which was intended for COVID-19 and had undergone several trials. Pfizer was made in 11 facilities across five countries including Germany, Belgium, Ireland, the United States, and Croatia. Later, more vaccines against this illness were created, including AstraZeneca, Sinovac, Sputnik V, and Janssen. Only those who are at least 18 years old are advised to get the Sinovac vaccine, which was developed in Beijing, China.

Continue on p. 24

THE PLASTIC PREDATORS

How robot fif i sh are cleaning up the ocean, one microplastic at a time

By Andrew Tolentino

With its vast expanse of blue stretching out as far as the eye can reach and the rhythmic sound of waves meeting the shore, the ocean can be a mesmerizing sight. However, beneath its peaceful facade lies a growing problem that threatens the very health of our oceans. Microplastics, small plastic fragments resulting from the breakdown of larger plastic items, are flooding our oceans and are being constantly transported by the waves and currents. Despite the seemingly calm appearance of the waves, these small, invisible particles are carried along with it and are also affecting marine life in ways science has yet to explain.

The problem of microplastic pollution

The rising amount of microplastics in the world’s oceans has been a major concern throughout the years. In 2017, the United Nations Environment Assembly estimated that 4.8-12.7 million metric tons of plastics are released into the oceans annually. These pieces of plastic debris, once introduced into the ocean, break down into microplastics (<5 mm)

through different environmental factors.

Microplastics are classified into two: primary and secondary. Primary microplastics are those that are intentionally manufactured and utilized in products such as cosmetics, while secondary microplastics are those resulting from the breakdown of larger plastic items. Both types, however, pose a serious threat to marine life and ecosystems.

Numerous initiatives have been taken to address the issue of microplastic pollution, with big corporations like McDonald’s and Evian committing to produce packaging for their products from renewable, recycled, or certified sustainable sources.

The emergence of robot fish technology

Technological advancements have also contributed in addressing the threats of microplastic pollution. One of which is the invention of robot fish capable of detecting and consuming microplastics.

Eleanor Mackintosh, a student at the University of Surrey, designed a

COLLISION OF THE TITANS: AI and Humans Intelligence in a Battle of Wit

By Arjin P. Callada

robot fish that detects microplastics through the use of sensors and cameras. Once detected, the robot fish uses its mouth to consume the microplastics, which are then stored in a separate compartment for later disposal.

Another model for robot fish was invented by Yuyan Wang, a researcher at the Polymer Research Institute of Sichuan University. Wang’s design made use of a material similar to that of nacre, the interior covering of clams. This material made the robot fish stretchy, flexible, and durable, and most importantly, capable of absorbing nearby microplastics as the organic dyes, antibiotics, and heavy metals in the microplastics have strong chemical bonds and electrostatic interactions with the robot fish’s components.

While each design has its own advantages, Wang’s may be more effective at eliminating microplastics since it is capable of absorbing microplastics without requiring the robot fish to ingest physically and store them. Mackintosh’s concept, however, may be more successful in finding microplastics in the water as it

employs sensors and a camera to detect them before ingesting.

The future of robot fish and microplastic cleanup

Robotic fish technology has shown a lot of promise in mitigating the growing problem of microplastic pollution. Robot fish have the ability to remove significant amounts of microplastics in regions where current cleanup techniques are not practical. However, the widespread application of this technology also has its fair share of difficulties and constraints, such as high manufacturing and maintenance costs and the effectiveness of the technology depending on the type and concentration of microplastics in the water.

In our pursuit of a more sustainable future, robot fish technology and other technological innovations will undoubtedly play an important role in preserving the resources of our planet. However, it is essential to remember that individual efforts, such as reducing our own plastic usage and properly disposing of waste, can also make a significant impact in cleaning up our oceans, one microplastic at a time.

AI Hell o I ve been learning about the progress of artificial intelligence and I think it could transform fields like transportation, healthcare, and scientific research.

Human: Yes, AI has advanced, but people worry it could take over human jobs and make important decisions that have ethical effects.

AI I see your worry, but I think AI can help society a lot. It can do tasks that need human smarts, so people can work on more interesting jobs. Also, AI can analyze huge amounts of data and make predictions humans can t.

Human: I think AI has its benefits, but some people worry it might take away jobs and leave many people with no work.

AI I see your worry, but I think AI can make new jobs that never existed before. Like AI engineers, data analysts, and machine learning specialists are very needed.

Human: That’s a good thought, but what about the ethical concerns with AI? Some people fear AI, it might make decisions that have big ethical effects without people involved.

Continue on p. 23

THE SILENT KILLER

Understanding Cerebral Aneurysm

By Kate Monica M. Sta. Clara | Andrew C. Tolentino

The human body is a marvel of complexity, capable of performing countless tasks efficiently. Yet, even this intricate system can falter, leaving us vulnerable to hidden threats. One of which is aneurysm, a silent assassin lurking within the vast network of blood vessels that nourish our bodies. Aneurysms can develop without warning and become a ticking time bomb that can expand and rupture at any time, capable of wreaking havoc on the body and mind.

Aneurysms have a prevalence of approximately 3.2% of the global population, having an average onset of 50 years and an overall 1:1 gender ratio. However, this ratio shifts significantly after the age of 50, with a higher proportion of women developing this condition than men. This shift is linked to a decline in estrogen levels, causing a reduction in the collagen in the blood vessels.

In the Philippines, cerebrovascular diseases, including aneurysm, were the leading cause of death, with a recorded 32,354 deaths in the first half of 2022. However, of these deaths, most cases of aneurysm are either underreported or undocumented per DOH officerin-charge Maria Rosario Vergeire. Some prominent figures in the Philippines who succumbed to an

Artificial Intelligence

from page 22

Artificial Intelligence

(AI) has seen significant advancements in recent years, with many experts predicting that AI will surpass human intelligence in the not-so-distant future. The progress in artificial intelligence (AI) is poised to revolutionize contemporary society, as it will impact transportation, healthcare, scientific research, financial systems, and military operations. AI has the potential to affect different fields in society due

aneurysm include Isabel Granada, Fernando Poe Jr., and, most recently, Jovit Baldivino.

Brain aneurysm, also known as cerebral aneurysm, is a common condition wherein the weakened part in the walls of the blood vessel in the brain swells and emerges, forming-like balloons filled with blood that could live for years if they remain intact. This condition is often found to be asymptomatic, and bulges are usually small, generally less than 10 millimeters. However, an aneurysm may be categorized as unruptured, ruptured, or leaking.

Unruptured is almost the same as asymptomatic behavior but can present symptoms such as headache and seizure. Meanwhile, a sudden and extremely severe headache that could be described as a “thunderclap headache” is a sign of a ruptured aneurysm which may also develop into nausea, vomiting, seizure, loss of consciousness, or cardiac arrest. While leaking an aneurysm, as the term suggests, a small amount of blood has leaked into the brain that may cause warning headaches, which later on may result in rupture.

Among the mentioned symptoms of a brain aneurysm, the ruptured aneurysm is the most dangerous one, with the fatality

rate accounting for about 50%, and around 66% of the survivors suffer from permanent neurological problems, according to the Brain Aneurysm Foundation. Even though ruptured aneurysms are highly fatal, there are cases of survival from which can tell how an aneurysm can be a silent killer.

One survivor is Ms. Tanja Redd from Alabama, who experienced sharp pain in the head that did not last long; however, a dull pain similar to a migraine has occurred. No other symptoms showed; even with a CT scan and other medical tests, it did not show anything until Ms. Redd experienced difficulty opening her right eye. She was diagnosed with a ruptured aneurysm after a series of tests and underwent aneurysm clipping to block off the vessel and prevent further leakage.

While Annie Barnett is a 21-year-old healthy girl from Australia who works and studies simultaneously, she experienced not feeling her legs and an unbearable thunderclap headache. It was discovered that there were five aneurysms, two of which were ruptured. Ms. Barnett has undergone 13 brain operations, experienced a stroke, several times visited the intensive care unit several times, and had

seizures. During her recovery, the doctors have advised her immediate family to take tests, and the results have shown that Mr. Barnett, her father, has three aneurysms.

In the Philippines, there are survivors of ruptured aneurysms; for instance, Mr. Rico Principe, founder of the Philippine Brain Aneurysm Survivors, shared his experience that it all started with a severe migraine, then felt like a baseball hit him. Another is Ms. Pia Lizares, who experienced an aneurysm at 32, which can be considered an early onset. She had two major surgeries and four brain aneurysms that affected her life.

Cerebral aneurysms are like trails of mysteries that go from asymptomatic into something drastic, leading to death or survival. It has also been demonstrated that having a brain aneurysm could be hereditary. However, several factors influence the development of this condition, like lifestyle and health-concerning issues. Whether healthy or not, one can say a cerebral aneurysm could go silent as it can be.

to its ability to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. With the continuous improvement and advancement of artificial intelligence (AI), there is an increasing worry about its capability to replace jobs that were previously handled by humans and its capacity to make crucial decisions that could have significant ethical consequences. This emphasizes the importance of careful evaluation and regulation. But it is essential to keep in mind that AI can’t replace human

intelligence and has limitations of its own. AI systems rely on the quality of data they are trained on, and they can struggle with tasks that require emotional intelligence, creativity, and complex decisionmaking. In contrast, humans have unique qualities such as empathy, intuition, and common sense that AI cannot replicate. In many fields, combining human intelligence and AI can be the most effective method. Humans can provide creativity, intuition, and judgment, while AI can provide

analytical power and speed. Therefore, viewing AI as a tool that complements human intelligence rather than competition is more appropriate. This approach can enhance human decisionmaking and productivity. As we move forward, we must find the right balance between utilizing AI’s power and retaining the human touch in our increasingly automated world. How do you think we can achieve this balance? It’s a question we all need to ponder on as we prepare for the future.

New Plant Species Begonia francisabuidii

By Jaira Berioso

Ligao City, Albay—

a new plant species Begonia francisabuidii found in Albay was named after the late Mr. Francis Gregor Abuid. Young Bicolano conservation biologist Mr. Abuid works in a small community in Barangay Oma-Oma, Ligao City, Albay. He is a kind teacher with a beautiful soul who enjoys learning about life while taking in the breathtaking beauty of Albay. Mr. Abuid was exploring the forest when he stumbled across a plant that resembles another species, Begonia madulidii, but is physically distinct. The plant which is native to Albay was given Abuid’s name “in recognition of his efforts to encourage young Bicolanos to maintain, conserve, and study the biodiversity in the Bicol region.

With 2074 recognized species worldwide, the genus Begonia Linnaeus is the fifthlargest angiosperm genus and is quite varied. The Philippine archipelago contains a diverse and largely indigenous Begonia flora with 146 recognized species. Some other taxonomic investigations conducted after Merrill (1911)’s thorough research helped to identify a large number of new species of begonia. With a new set of statements, ongoing attempts to categorize and distinguish Begonia species that grow in the Bicol region are consolidated. The first Begonia section Baryandra species to be collected and documented from the Province of Albay resulted from this unexpected discovery, which led to the identification of a new species of Begonia sect. Baryandra.

The Begonia francisabuidii is a new species discovered in Albay Oma-oma, Ligao City, by a Bicolano biologist who passed away in a car accident in 2021 and

was named in his honor. According to research reported on March 28 in the Taiwania International Journal of Biodiversity, the new begonia species replicates Begonia madulidii but differs in having shorter and puberulent rhizomes, densely hirsute stipules, reddish and pubescent petioles, smaller leaves, puberulous panicles, smaller bracts, and four-tepals pistillate flowers. The new species has sub-pubescent rhizomes, reddish-pubescent petioles (as opposed to pale green with very few erect velutinous hairs), smaller lamina (13–15.1 8–10 cm vs. 11.5–21.5 9.5–18 cm), puberulous panicles, smaller bracts (3–4 mm vs. 10–12 mm vs. 10–12 mm)

As Mr. Abuid and his newly-identified Begonia plant species, the appreciation for plant diversity should be recognized. In recognition of his efforts to encourage young Bicolanos to safeguard, preserve, and research the biodiversity of the Bicol Region. However, in accordance with the categories and criteria of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature’s Red List, researchers propose classifying Begonia francisabuidii as a Critically Endangered.

Species with a very high risk of extinction due to rapid population losses of 80 to more than 90 percent over the past ten years. Moreover, the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has not yet protected the region. Due to the site’s frequent use by local tourists, the rise in anthropogenic activities, or environmental harm brought on by human activity, the species’ population is vulnerable and at risk of decreasing.

COVID-19 Vaccine

from page 17

The mRNA1237 vaccine, commonly known Moderna, has demonstrated a 94.1% efficacy in preventing COVID-19, including severe cases, with no significant safety concerns except for temporary local and systemic reactions. It is considered safe and effective for individuals aged six months and above. Moderna’s vaccine has proven highly effective in preventing severe illness, hospitalizations, and fatalities after receiving two doses and a first booster dose, and it also offers some protection against symptomatic infection. The most frequent side effects reported are pain, fatigue, headache, muscle pain, joint stiffness, chills, nausea/ vomiting, fever, and swelling at the injection site. These effects are generally mild to moderate and temporary, lasting a few days following vaccination. They are more commonly experienced after the second dose and are less prevalent in older individuals.

The WHO, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovation (CEPI), UNICEF, the World Bank, civil society, manufacturers, and others collaborated to distribute AstraZeneca throughout the world. The British-Swedish company AstraZeneca and Oxford University jointly produced it in the United Kingdom. By 72%, it effectively aids in the recovery from symptomatic COVID-19 infection. Russia was the first country to announce the development of a COVID-19 vaccine in August 2020. The advantages of the Sputnik V vaccine have received constant publicity. Meanwhile, Sputnik V has had a difficult time gaining widespread support in Russia. It was manufactured by Gamaleya Inst. with an efficiency of over

91.6%.

As of May 5, 2022, the U.S. FDA will only permit adults ages 18 and older to use the Janssen COVID-19 vaccine. It is 72% efficient in the US versus 66% in other countries. Additionally, the side effects following a COVID-19 vaccination are frequently minor, brief, and comparable to those following regular vaccinations. Depending on the age range, these may change. Fever, headaches, fatigue, and pain at the injection site were the most frequent COVID-19 side effects.

Due to the spread of COVID-19, establishments were closed and everyone was notified to stay inside their homes, Because of the aid of the vaccines produced by various nations, establishments have been reopened and people are gradually returning to their previous ways of life after nearly two years of being prohibited from leaving their residences to avoid the spread of COVID-19. There was a widespread immunization campaign for everyone to ensure that the individuals could resume their old lifestyles in safety.

The pandemic caused many problems in the Philippines and around the world. However, it also showed how people can come together to help each other, Healthcare workers are risking their lives to take care of the sick, and communities are coming together to provide help and support to those in need. While the Philippines is still dealing with the pandemic, we should remember that even small actions can have a big impact in the fight against COVID-19. Let us continue to do our part by following safety protocols, supporting our frontliners, and helping those who are most vulnerable. Together, we can overcome this pandemic and emerge stronger than ever before.

fighting alone together: keeping hope ignited while bearing the brunt of an outbreak

DON’T LOOK UP MOVIE REVIEW

Should we look up and respond to the truth, or look down to live with the lies? What do pride and greed mean to different people? Who should we trust? As we ready ourselves for the huge impact that this movie brings, let us immerse ourselves in the important time stamps, terrors, and wonders through this movie review.

2 hours 4 minutes and 5 seconds before the impact: A Huge Discovery

From their main characters to extras, this movie carries a strong line-up of actors and actresses – which posed the movie as something to brace for even for science enthusiasts. It was a great move by the movie to make us relate to astronomy such as how the comet’s size and path were predicted and measured. Of course, a “little” disaster theme would not hurt. The discovery of the comet by Kate Dibiasky and her professor, Dr. Randall Mindy greatly shows how every discovery acts as a double-edged sword.

1 hour 46 minutes and 10 seconds before the impact: Power Play

How this story progressed in this part showed me an event that is not commonly seen in other disaster movies. In this movie, the scene where the scientists are talking with the president and other government personnel shows three undeniable truths in our society: One is the complexity of sciences which becomes a hindrance to making common people understand/believe. Second is the government’s negligence toward the scientific community. Lastly, the great impact of technology (such as Bash Liif) and social media (such as The Daily Rip Show) on how we function as a society. What made this movie special is that the majority of the conflict occurred prior to the impending disaster.

For example, I was extremely appalled at how President Janie Orlean, her subordinates, and the media tried to overwhelm the truth with topics much less important in this context such as the election and break-up issue of Riley Bina, played by our beloved Ariana Grande, and DJ Chello. Appropriate actions were only made when needed a fallback after almost losing the election. Basically, they won’t do anything unless it benefits them. Talk about priorities! Moreover, Jason Orlean purposely intimidating and putting Kate in uncomfortable situations reflects how our women scientists are still being treated.

1 hour 0 minutes and 0 seconds before the impact: A Comet for the Pocket

After successfully proceeding with the plan to redirect the comet which I thought to be the best possible solution for the conflict, the worst turn of events happened due to human greed - a $140 Trillion worth - suicide mission. As a researcher, plans based on unreliable studies tickle my pet peeve. However, I do find their take on how the government function is a little condescending from reality. Most government would not mindlessly follow some known business owners at the face of an impending planetary destruction. Instead, they have shown that they proceeded to the initial plan, but halted everything because Peter Isherwell can harvest the said “assets”. In addition, we can also see here what the scientific community suffers with: entering showbiz and media to try and spread awareness but ending up being judged and corrupted just like what happened to Dr. Randall Mindy. It is wonderful how they tried to portray these issues while

preserving the thought that it is not the comet that will destroy us but our incompetence, beliefs, and morals. However, I would criticize the portrayal of Kate’s character in these moments, and even in previous parts. It was too much on the crazy side, making it unrealistic. It would be better if her character was written as someone who would slowly break down as the disaster went close and not the crazy woman that she was shown.

0 hours 28 minutes and 20 seconds before the impact: Social Breakdown

Although the appearance of the comet was expected, it was in no way rushed to show us how interests and pride control and divide people in the middle of a crisis. I love how 3 different groups of people were established at this moment: “Just Look Up”, “Don’t Look Up”, and those who are neutral. It is fun seeing that everything portrayed in this movie comes back as political. We cannot judge people based on their beliefs, but one can see what group fights for the immediate good which was necessary at this point in the story.

It was overwhelming to see the scientists (Just Look Up group) fighting against political powers while trying to act on their own to save the people from their inevitable tragedy had a song made, a fairly reasonable way to attract supporters, especially in our generation. Sadly, they failed in doing so, which gave us a unique outcome of the disaster compared with other movies: the saviors failed to save. After that, accepting their fate with their friends and family was the only thing they can do. After all, there is no way to change their fate anymore.

0 hours, 0 minutes, 0 seconds before the impact: The Collision

It seemed that our beloved actors had an unfortunate ending for their characters. Even our beloved Meryl Streep aka President Orlean didn’t make it until the end after being eaten by Bronteroc, 22,740 years after the comet destroyed the earth. Despite this being a comedic relief from the extremely emotional and tragic events, it’s just what I would like to consider Karma.

Overall, the movie is an extraordinary masterpiece, brimming with wit, action, and suspense. Incorporating a comparison between the scientific and political points of view is also a wise take on current issues. There are a few improvements that could have been made like showing more relevance to the Bash Liif itself and the grave consequences of disobedience to the federal orders, which were easily evaded by Dr. Mindy and Kate Dibiasky. However, these don’t take away from the fact that the movie surely does not disappoint and is worthy to Look Up to.

by Seth Nino B. Paparon

A Writer's Prayer

by Juan-Raja Sining

May our pens forever dance on stage papers, To the beat of our excited, grieving, anxious, loving hearts. May our heartstrings pull towards justice, truth, and kindness, And never answer the looming curtain call.

twelve siblings

by struberi

There are twelve siblings born into this world. They are happy, carefree, and very much living the most out of it. All of that changed when they found out that they will die soon. Although shocked and nervous about their future, they spent their time the way they wanted.

The first child loves to see lights blooming in the sky. They love to see the night sky filled with flowers, hearts, and any shape they want. Blue, green, violet, yellow, or any other color. Aslong as it’s loud, they would love it very much. Their life, like a firework, lost its light right away. Thesecond child who becomes afraid of their life spends most of their time giving love to people. They give flowers, chocolates, and letters, hoping that people will remember them. They took everyone they love to dates, dinners, picnics, just love everywhere. They died surrounded by people who genuinely love them.

Four of the children have different approaches. The first two siblings, which happened to be twins, have been religious since birth. They pray and pray that the “curse” plaguing their siblings will leave them all. They celebrated the life and death of the Christians’ Savior. That helped their souls, but as per their belief, they accepted that their lives don’t belong to them. The next two children don’t really care if they will die today or tomorrow. They just spend their time doing outdoor activities, and just being the coolest kids in town. Aside from that, they walk alongside people to celebrate and fight for their rights. They are very vocal, so their deaths… wasn’t really a funeral. It was more like a party, which they probably will like.

Losing hope, the next four siblings just did nothing. Well, not exactly nothing, but compared to the first half of their now dead siblings, they just spent their time doing normal things. They’re just existing and waiting for their demise in this rainy season. Just like the raindrops, all four of them embraced the land one by one.

The eleventh child... People around them said that they lost some screws in their head, because who the heck in their right mind celebrates the death of their siblings with a costume party? They gave away candies, chocolates, and sweets, and organized a big party for everyone. If only people knew that behind that happy and festive face, is a kid who cried every time the messenger of death visits their family. Just like their siblings, the eleventh kid died, without showing everyone what they really felt.

The remaining child loves their siblings so much. Every single one of them. They made sure that they spent time with them, and everyone was happy and loved before their last breath escaped their body. When they felt that their end was near, they celebrated where their sibling lies, and where they will eventually go. Eleven tombs surrounded them as they arranged the foods, pastries, and candles to celebrate the life that they once had. They hope that all twelve of them will see and feel the warmth of the sun, the air of a morning spring, the colors of leaves in autumn, and the white snow that surrounds them right now. Unfortunately, before wishing to end the curse they’ve experienced, the cold breeze took them away, and they died, starting and ending the curse all over again.

lost star

by cornelia

what would i be if I let every spectrum of something turn into dust?

what would i be if i made it?

what would i be if i let myself to let go?

what would i be if i didn’t put myself in a burden where i need to catch every droplet of the rain?

what would i be if i’m just a lost star in the entire galaxy barely knowing to be one.

MANANAKBO:

palayo ngunit nanatili ni Ann Clarice G. Cid

Sabi nila tumakbo ka palayo sa akin, Tanong nila’y, bakit hindi kita habulin?

Mahal, ’wag kang mabibigla sa maririnig na sagot mula sa akin

Sambit ko’y: hindi ka naman karapat-dapat pang hanapin. ’Wag kang mag-alala sinta, Tama ang iyong nabasa.

Hindi ka namamalik-mata, ’Wag sanang mawalan ng pag-asa

Dahil mahal, hindi ka karapat-dapat hanapin, Pagka’t hindi ko maisip kung paano ka hahabulin

Kung sa tingin ko’y hindi ka naman umalis sa akin; Pinagmasdan kitang lumayo ngunit sinta, nanatili ka sa puso kong minamahal ka pa rin.

Hindi ko kailangang mabahala sa iyong paglisan

Dahil hindi ka lamang parte ng aking nakaraan; Hindi ka man masilayan, Mananatili ka pa ring aking tahanan.

by StreetScott

Febie

I found solace in being alone. Sometimes I hate it when my mom comes home from work and lays beside me in our bed. I hated that we shared the same room because I couldn’t cry. After all, she will hear me.

So, the least I could do was suppress my sobbing and push my face onto the pillow. Most of the time, I don’t know why I am crying. Sometimes when I am eating alone, I’ll just burst into tears. And Sometimes I thank God for having a problem because it’s much more painful when you’re crying, and you don’t know the reason why.

When you are depressed, your eyes hurt the most, they’re the first ones to give up from being too used up. From crying all night and being in front of your phone all day just to forgetting about the reality you live in.

Maybe the root of my likeness to being alone was my trauma. When I was 12 years old, I began to romanticize death. I began to imagine hanging myself while my family finds me in my bed, sobbing and wishing they had treated me better. And I was standing there, regretting my choice as I watched them. Those were all the fake scenarios I think about at night at the age of 12. Too young? I was 8 years old when my father disappointed me so much that I wanted to get away and live away from them. It was then that I started crying every night until I fell asleep because it makes me feel okay, at least. It was the best way to make me sleep because it was too hard to think about it.

I lived with my grandmother, but I feel like I was living alone, or did I just make myself feel that way? I pity myself so much that I deny other people’s love for me, I always make myself feel alone so that I have a reason to cry. I was always behind closed doors of my room, rethinking the decisions I made in this life. Maybe it would be better if I just denied myself breathing. It would be better for them. My mom still has my younger brother, she’s going to be okay. I am no one’s favorite of both my parents that’s why it’s easy for them to send me far away to them. I have friends but no one that will sit down in front of my grave all day. But I will for them, each one of them.

But somehow, I forget about those things when I have short-lived happiness and I am thankful for it. Along the path that I chose for myself which I think was shitty, I found people who make me laugh and understand me, and I shared good and tough times. They may not be the best, but they’re the ones who fill the emptiness I have for a family. Sometimes I hate coming home because I have to eat alone, with no one to talk to. But it’s okay, no one knows that pain except me.

Sometimes it’s better to be alone, nobody can hurt you, right? But who am I fooling into believing that being alone means nobody can hurt you? It’s comfortable but feels empty. Nobody to live for, nobody will make you feel loved, nobody will make you feel needed, no one asking if you have eaten, no one saying shitty things about you, no one’s complimenting you, no one hates you, no one’s there.

It is not a good feeling to get hurt and get your heart shattered piece by piece.

But at least you know where you’re coming from, right? You know whom to blame, your heart is shattered but you have someone in there.

I have is a big hole in my heart, all my life I was trying hard to breathe. People take that part away from me, from the people that I loved and to the people who don’t even know me but had a bigger impact on my life. Maybe I still have a chance in this life. Maybe I just need to live more, I have to.

the death of the beaten by

MJORB

His lips trembled, eyes wouldn’t meet mine, My throat swelled, anxiety-like brine, I knew what he had to say would strike, Weightless, and leave me to trike.

“I saw him when the legion took, To the pit where they dealt the crook“

“His execution I asked in fear, As the world crumbled, oh so near.

He confirmed it with a silent nod, And I felt like I was hit by a rod, “You watched him die, and did nothing?“ The atmosphere heavy, and my heart buzzing.

“You’re a monster, a coward too, Watching as he bid life adieu“

“I was afraid“ he stammered on, But I couldn’t fathom it, he was wrong.

“He was afraid too, but you know what’s worse, Than a murderer who brought the curse? It’s those who watched, and didn’t dare, To save a life, to show they care“

My voice rose, anger filling my core, Hate and fury, I couldn’t ignore, I took a step closer, my eyes ablaze, For his inaction, he deserved the blaze.

Ignoring the truth, turning away, Letting injustice have its way, You choose to be blind, to not see, But inaction’s a choice, a moral fee.

stormed by Juan-Raja Sining

There’s something about dancing frantically on the city’s naked, moonlit streets. A state of bliss in the cloak of the night. To the NPCs, it was probably lunacy under dear Luna. But to the main character, the broken boy—to me, it felt like reaping ripen reverie, ripples form as I frolic under the mercy of the harrowing storm clouds. Of course, I did. I’m a storm myself. I’ll bask in all this drama after he “stormed“ me. You know, make the most out of the pain. Rinse my heart, have my tears run along with the raindrops on my face. And once cleansed, love as if I was never broken by the grandest boy of my wildest dreams and nightmares. May daylight hug my skin tight, and dry me good.

A Cheesy, Cowardly Confession for CHROMA

by struberi Whirlwind by Juan-Raja Sining

The color blue is synonymous with sadness. Yellow can either mean happiness or cowardice. Purple is often associated to the highness, And wearing red can make your life the luckiest.

But no bright color can beat this beauty in my eyes, When you smile and laugh- oh! They give me butterflies. You’ve stolen the world its beautiful hue, I bet the color white is absolutely jealous of you.

You can outshine the brightest color ever made, Even if they create another for the next decade. You’re that powerful, you made my gray world colorful, And created a rainbow brightening what’s previously dull.

Even without a paint, you’ve colored my life some value. Unfortunately, this coloring activity is painfully one-sided. Because of that, the intensity you have is making me afraid- Afraid that I’ll completely drown and be smitten by you.

Maybe he’s just something that should pass, And was never meant to stay. A gift of the universe; A confirmation that there’s nothing more for THAT person in me; That I am healed, and that I can indulge myself in love again…

…that my ability to love as deep and genuine as before wasn’t stolen by the disaster that was HIM… …that I am indeed strong and bold, for HIS storm didn’t weather my persevering heart… Our ability to love comes purelyfrom within us and should not be attributed to the ghosts who haunt our gentle hearts. Therefore reader, please still love like you’ve never been hurt before.

it’s always you

by cornelia

When a moment where your eyes catches the beauty of life again, the moment where you know it’s getting hard to breathe as the ocean waves flows and as the air swirling through your skin, it’s gonna tell you that you are that person witting in a balcony with his coffee and books trying to be alive and not anything else.

It’s you where you see a storm coming, but you choose to go with the pedestal of your own with a little bicycle going into somewhere you don’t know.

It’s you who view the picture of the river in front your house, thinking that love should not be possessed, but felt.

It’s you who could never change the things you’ve been, but nevertheless, it became who you are.

by Kyte Obra

MOVIE REVIEW E V E R Y T H I N G

E V E R Y W H E R E

D

oes the movie title remind you of the way you do your backlogs when the submissions are around the corner? Like, you feel the need of working on your responsibilities simultaneously, and to save some time, do them anywhere you go? As much as we hope to multiply into different versions of ourselves to finish never-ending tasks and duties all at once, reality is not kind enough to give us such ability. To make up for that frustration, let us dive into different worlds as this movie takes us for a ride, and who knows? Wishing to find another version of ours is not a crime, right?

Since I know you’ve been thinking about a lot of things already, let me save you a little trouble and allow me to explain the technical terminologies used in the movie. The AlphAverse serves as the central universe where alternate dimensions were observed. verse jumping was also invented there, which is a character’s ability to gain a special skill from their different version that lives in another universe. To access that ability, a person must perform an action that they are unlikely to do, in order to bridge their identity to someone from a different universe. This is often guided by the people from the Alphaverse, in order to verse jump into a version of you that possesses the ability you need to acquire. Examples of such actions are snorting a fly, swallowing a tiny figurine, and many more. Those commands are called jumping pAds

Just like in the movie, allow Alpha Writer to give you your jumping pAd for you to verse jump into another world this review would take you in. Don’t worry, I will not ask you to do crazy things. So, are you ready? Your jumping pad is… JUST FOCUS!

Part I: Everything

Evelyn, a Chinese-American immigrant, was shown at the beginning of the movie; sorting out taxes for her Laundromat business alongside putting up with her goofy husband (Waymond), preparing noodles for her father (Gong Gong), and her issues with her daughter’s (Joy) sexual preferences. Literally doing everything all at once, right? Trust me, I could feel the stress going through the screen. Aside from Evelyn’s frustration of being “excellent at nothing” as her life issue, Waymond’s positivity and Joy’s loss of interest in life, are also promising to look upon as these will open the door to the adventure we’re going to explore.

Unknowingly to Evelyn during the moment they’re heading to Deidre’s office, she’s already dealing with Waymond’s version from Alphaverse. He gave her a list of actions, which happened to be her jumping pads.

In contrast to Evelyn’s existential crisis, she was able to use her verse-jumping ability to explore her variants, finding out that all of those Evelyns are experts at their respective fields. However, a hole in those variants’ lives still hinder them from finding their purposes. The different approach in the concept of existentialism could also be drawn out of the characters; Evelyn’s attempt of escaping mediocrity to find her meaning of life; Waymond’s lack of an arc, from which he’s looked down on; and Joy’s attempt of avoiding life’s cruelty, believing that there is no sense in finding truth in it, embodying principles of absurdism and nihilism.

Chasing the truth of life is like running in circles; answers give birth to another question. Well, speaking of circles, what about being swallowed by one instead of running in it? That is what Everything Bagel is about. The irony of it being made up of everything, yet the insides is a never-ending void, piqued my interest. Joy’s antagonist variant, Jobu Tupaki, came up with this creation in attempt of destroying the Alphaverse driven by her frustration of being miserable in every universe she lived in. Considering her backstory, her mind fractured all over the multiverse after being pressured by her parents to reach her fullest potential. While existentialism seeks the value and purpose of life, absurdism finds this practice nonsensical as it is beyond human capability. Would these opposing inquiries be complementary for Evelyn to save the Alphaverse from Jobu’s wrath?

Part II: EveRYWHERE

This part stressed the parallelism between the alternate universes Evelyn accessed. Different life storyline of the same layout of events happen simultaneously: from her hotdog-fingered variant having marriage problems with Deidre’s variant to finally being happy together; from her actress variant’s unfinished business with Waymond’s rich-man variant to finally giving their past relationship another chance; from her rock variant drawing near Joy’s rock variant to the edge to joining the latter as they fall down the cliff; from her Hibachi chef version exposing her rival’s friend raccoon hiding inside his hat, to helping him find his way back to his friend; and from Evelyn, the original one, struggling to resolve her issues with Waymond (their marriage) and Joy (her sexuality), to finally saving her marriage and supporting her daughter’s homosexual relationship. Especially, her success of saving Joy from her own wrath and finally having a lot healthier mother-and-daughter relationship. As absurd as it may sound, but these resolutions began with Waymond’s kindness speech; the importance of being kind even we don’t know what’s going on.

Part III: ALL AT ONCE

Life is indeed stressful, and sometimes life throws us a curve ball. We make choices that lead us down a road that ultimately leaves us feeling miserable, and that is why we must be meticulous in our priorities and in what we value most. Recklessness could lead to us missing out on the possibility to grow closer to those we care about when we prioritize other things above them. We may make these mistakes, but a change of direction is always possible; most of the time, it is the world itself that is messed rather than ourselves anyway. Be careful not to cling to the past that we’d forget about what could be in store for us. Besides, with the belief that nothing matters and that our acts have no cosmic repercussions, we may let our hair down and enjoy our independence from society. We are liberated to pursue personal fulfillment and development, because the meaning of our lives do not wait for us, or a definite truth of life ever exists. Rather, we are the ones who create our own meaning in this world. Seeking the meaning of life is not absurd after all as it resides within our actions and how we view it.

by Andrei Gaspar