Imprenta 2nd Issue (October 2020)

The Official Newsletter of LPU-M College of Arts and Sciences

CAS-SG KICKSTARTS WITH DIGITAL ASSEMBLY!

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CAS-SG kickstarts A.Y. with Digital Assembly The College of Arts and Sciences Student Government (CAS-SG) kicks off this academic year (A.Y.) with iCASsembly: The First Digital Assembly of CAS, last September 18.

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Questions?

Speak out!

Students can send their concerns and inquiries to the CAS-SG and the CAS-SG will be the one to relay this concerns to the administration.

INTRAMUROS WITHOUT STUDENTS

LEX ASSEMBLE!

The once lively Intramuros became a new place— an Intramuros with no life.

LEX, the official organization for Legal Management students of LPU Manila conducted Ikatlong Yugto, their general assembly online last October 3, 2020.

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

The reality of having a second Imprenta issue is unbelievable. I am truly proud that our smal steps has brought us this far and that it proves that we can go even further. This second issue highlights more of CAS’ past activities and thoughtful pieces from CASmates themselves. We’re happy to be covering different events and having the platform to spark discussions. We want to fo even further and we wish for your support, reader, in reaching our objectives.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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CAS NEWS

Why Intramuros without Students is Intramuros without Life,

Writing never stops for campus journalists. For us, everyday is a new chapter to weave storiesand narratives that can inform and educate the studentry. In these moments of crisis, our job to write is even more important. As stories continue to develop inside and outside the campus, wein Imprenta stands to be the avenue for students in knowing these stories.

Walking inside this historical place today may no longer be the same.

We will continue to write and inform. Imprenta moves forward raising the banner ofcommunication with its commitment to serve the College of Arts and Sciences.

Cedric Gallosa, Managing Editor

iCASsembly!

The College of Arts and Sciences Student Government (CAS-SG) kicks off this academic year (A.Y.) with iCASsembly: The First Digital Assembly of CAS, last September 18.

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Thank you for picking this up!

Jazz Quiambao, Editor-in-Chief

Imprenta’s commitment to bring news, feature stories, and important information continues evenin these moments of pandemic.

Our dedication and persistence transcend today’s obstacles tocarry on our mission in keeping every student of College of Arts and Sciences informed. Withthis, it is our greatest honor to present the second issue of Imprenta.

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CAS LITERARY PIECES

FEATURES

PAGE 13 Just Another War It’s the press-conference season again. Have you ever felt the rush of your sweat as you sat on the chair in the competition room?

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EDITORIAL BOARD

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NEWS CAS-SG kickstarts A.Y. with Digital Assembly

by Joaquin Victor Tacla

She also recommended using the Pomodoro technique when studying, it’s a process wherein work is broken down into intervals like having 25 minutes of studying and then a 5-minute break, which helped her in passing the pharmacy board exams.

WWith the goal of upholding integrity, compassion, and inclusivity, the College of Arts and Sciences Student Government (CAS-SG) kicks off this academic year (A.Y.) with iCASsembly: The First Digital Assembly of CAS, last September 18.

The virtual assembly featured two prominent guest speakers, first is Shane Uy, a 3rd-year medicine student of University of Santo Tomas and also a content creator, who showed a presentation on how to cope up with online learning.

Meanwhile, second speaker Rambo Talabong of the online news site Rappler, is a multi-awarded journalist who covered Duterte’s anti-drug campaign - spoke about “Fake News in Today’s Society” in the assembly.

Uy, a Registered Pharmacist (RpH) on her talk shared some studying tips that she found effective such as making a checklist, taking down many notes with the help of file-managing apps like “pdfexpert”, and knowing one’s study habits, whether they prefer a group or individual study.

“Expect the worst but hope for the best.”

Uy advised students transitioning to online classes to “expect the worst” and be resilient. According to her this is one thing that she should have learned before entering med-school.

“In this way, it will be easier for you to cope and as the saying goes, expect the worst but hope for the best (kasi) before you know it tapos na ang first year, tapos na ang second year, tapos na itong pandemic na ito,” said Uy.

He argues that it’s important to ask what the story is about? When was it posted?

Where was it shared? How did they confirm the information? And why did they publish the story?

If the story does not pass these questions, he suggests to flag it as fake and at the same time encourages students to treat their social media timeline as “their yard” and never be afraid to call someone out for spreading misinformation.

“We fight for the truth, even when the truth hurts.”

He proclaimed that as journalists, “We fight for the truth, even when the truth hurts. We don’t make it up, we can’t afford to make information just for the clicks and the shares to damage someone’s reputation, what we just want is real information.”

Lastly, he affirms that journalists are on the people’s side and tells Lyceans to hold the line with them and fight for press freedom.

Talabong delivered a presentation on the propagation of fake news, he said that we are also facing a “disinformation pandemic” that has been going on for years.

According to the journalist, misinformation spreaders know the power of disinformation, he said, “These people who are spreading fake news deliberately make it look like legitimate news stories, they legitimately know how you’re feeling or how the public is feeling and they know how to shape it.”

“Upholding student’s rights and welfare.”

CAS-SG assured the students that they will guide them for the whole year despite the challenges of online learning.

“This year we aim to create an integral change in the whole CAS community through student empowerment, building an inclusive environment, and most importantly upholding student’s rights and welfare,” remarked CAS-SG President Michael James Dela Cruz.

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LEX Assemble!

by Jazz Quiambao

LEX, the official organization for Legal Management students of LPU Manila conducted Ikatlong Yugto, their general assembly online last October 3, 2020. The event was held live via Microsoft Teams and has been enjoyed by Legal Management students and faculty alike.

The event begun welcoming remarks from the President of Lex herself, Christienne Benosa. As the President, Benosa mentions how different things had become and how it affected their organization, “Just like other orgs we are also adjusting or trying to keep up or get used to the new ormal. We are making every effort to come up with plans, activities that

we can still do despite of our current situation.” Benosa then continues to introduce plans and events LEX have held and would hold such as a membership drive, LEX Diaries, LEX Talk, an online exhibit and many more.

Ikatlong Yugto then moves to its first guest speaker, an alumna from the university itself, Lucy Sambilay. Sambilay talked about Legal Management study tips and college survival.

Her tips were fun, simple and easily related to by the audience. Some of her tips included reminders to study smart, prioritize and to take a break—whether to cry, enjoy a day with your lover or simply drink some alcohol.

what makes college really exciting.

Struggles are new opportunities.

Some days will be bad, but there will be other days. Hindi pa tapos ang laban.”

The second speaker is Atty. Charissa Lazaro, who gave a talk titled ‘Promoting Justice Amidst, the Pandemic’. Atty. Lazaro reminds LEX and Legal Management students that, “We can all be an advocate of justice.” Atty. Lazaro says, “Justice means fairness, equity. In this time of extraordinary situation brought about by COVID-19 pandemic. we can do our part even by sharing our legal knowledge with others so as to protect the rights of the abused and taken advantage of. And maybe this is the perfect time to practice compassion.”

“Struggles are new opportunities. Some days will be bad, but there will be other days. Hindi pa tapos ang laban.”

Sambilay ends her talk with, “Struggles will always be there. But it’s

LPS welcomes Academic Year with General Assembly discussing Mental Health

by Cedric Gallosa our fears and anxieties,” said Mr. Narito.

He advised three ways on how people can cope with their fear and anxiety: Identify, Embrace, and Celebrate. People need to identify and embrace their thoughts and emotions, and celebrate even in life’s most quiet moments.

Lyceum Psychology Society (LPS) holds its general assembly last September 22, 2020 through a Facebook live with the topic “Reach Out: Mental Health in New Normal”.

The LPS prepared an informative seminar tackling mental health in the pandemic. The seminar was discussed by three speakers talking about ways to cope up with fear and anxiety, how 3

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people can normalize mental health, and tips on how students can prioritize their mental health.

The first speaker was Mr. Robert Tyron Narito, a psychometrician in LPU Manila Guidance and Testing Center.

He discussed the ways how people can cope with fear and anxiety. “Staying at home might be saving us from the virus, but it sure drew closer to

Meanwhile, Prof. Renz Louis Montano, a psychology professor in the university, tackled why we should normalize mental health and how we can break the stigma regarding it.

For Mr. Montano, a stigma arises when society labels the things they really do not understand in a negative manner. “The sad thing is that people generalize their opinions about individuals with mental illness to a point that it is no longer helpful,”

“The sad thing is that people generalize their opinions about individuals with mental illness to a point that it is no longer helpful,”

“They generalize their views like they think everyone with mental illness is aggressive or they’re going to harm people. But in reality, we cannot necessarily say that if you have a mental health condition, you’re automatically aggressive or going to harm people, you’re not productive or you cannot have your own family,” Prof. Montano added.

Mr. Montano also discussed the caus-

es of the occurrence of stigma in society, the reasons why people should take care of their mental health, and the things people can do to break the stigma regarding mental health.

Last among the speakers was Ms. Jerryl Apoloan, a guidance counselor in LPU Manila Guidance and Testing Center. She discussed some tips on how students can prioritize their mental health.

Ms. Apoloan pointed out factors affecting the mental health of students.

“In my year as a counselor in LPU, marami akong students na nakakausap and these are their common concerns: they’re experiencing over-

whelming stress, they are anxious, they are having difficulty in sleeping, and they are even diagnosed or experiencing depression,” she said.

With this, she gave 10 tips on how students can prioritize their mental health. These tips include setting up a daily routine, exercising, surrounding ourselves with supportive people, finding our safe and peaceful corners, and many more.

LPS is coming in this academic year committed to continue educating people about mental health and issues relevant to it.

Lagusnilad!

The New Metro Manila Sight Photos taken by Reyner Valentin

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Questions? Speak Out!

by Erica Balogbog

Due to the COVID-19 crisis that every educational institution is facing, comments, questions, inquiries, and concerns of students are unavoidable. To be able to answer the questions and concerns of the students, the College of Arts and Sciences Student Government (CAS-SG) of LPU-Manila launched a program entitled Speak Out – where students can send their concerns and inquiries to the CAS-SG and the CAS-SG will be the one to relay this concerns to the administration.

Last October 20, 2020, the CAS-SG conducted a program where CASmates can ask and send their concerns and inquiries to the administration.

The program is called Speak Out, where the students can address their

hosted by Dorothy Gregorio (Associate Secretary, LMAS) and Jazzmine Quiambao (Auditor, CAS SG). The event was joined by the College Secretary – Ms. Marie Bernard Mones, the Chairperson for Health, Sciences and Mathematics – Mr. Oscar Gabriel Jr. and the Chairperson for Language and Humanities – Ms. Haydee Dy. As they always say, CAS-SG wants to serve as the bridge between students and the administration. Conducting this event proves that CAS-SG is keeping their word. They have successfully sent the messages to the admin and the admin has successfully answered it.

Speak Out was established in 2018 during the term of Mikko Paulino, and since then, Speak Out has been an annual event. The current CAS-SG decided to continue the project since it aims to uphold the student’s rights and it is beneficial for the student body and the administration to be open and vocal with their concerns. concerns and inquiries through CAS-SG and they can ex- Speak Out will happen every start and end of each semespect real-time answers from the admin and faculty staff. ter.

The event was broadcasted via Facebook live and was

Recent tuition advisory from LPU Administration causes violent reactions, online chaos, and an emergency meeting with all College Student Governments

by Jazz Quiambao

On the morning of October 21, 2020, the whole college student body of LPU Manila received an email from the Administration in regard to the payment of tuition fees for the current semester. The official LPU Advisory email states, “Dear Lyceans: This is a gentle reminder to all with outstanding balances for the months of September and October 2020. Kindly settle your installment payments before the end of this month. Please be advised that without this settlement, Modules 3 and 4 will not be released on time. Thank you very much and stay safe.”

After receiving the email, the supreme college student government of LPU Manila, LYCESGO, released a poster on Facebook reiterating the contents of the email. Although the email was intended to be ‘gentle’, students did not take this gently. The comment section was immediately full of heated comments from students and parents alike. Phrases such IMPRENTA 5

as, “It’s a prank,” and “It’s a scam,” flooded the comment section as students nuanced the ‘consideration’ and ‘flexibility’ promised by the Administration early in the year during the orientation.

The orientation held last September 2 had assured students that the balance from the last semester will be combined with the current semester’s tuition and that it can be paid until December of 2020. This decision had pushed students to enroll for the new

semester as they saw an opportunity to save up for the tuition fee and pay it at the end of the year.

As this had been the understanding of the student body, the sudden advisory of the LPU Admin had shocked and confused many. LPU had then sent another email the following day, October 22, detailing the dates of installment periods and urging them to fill out a promissory form if they are unable to do so.

However, the strong emotions by the student body continued to show itself online, especially since there was a supposed sanction of withholding the next modules upon failure to pay.

This was finally felt by the Admin as they had called for a meeting with all college organization heads and college student governments the following morning.

The meeting was held on October 23 at 10 A.M. via Microsoft Teams. It was attended by CSGs of all departments, College Deans and Secretaries

and headed by Dean Jayson Barlan, the Dean of the Student Affairs Office.

The meeting immediately touched upon the topic of the latest advisory and Dean Barlan emphasized that there was simply miscommunication during the orientation. The supposed deadline in December only applied to the balance left over from AY19-20.

The sanction of withholding modules was removed, although the Admin still urges students to either pay in installment or in full and to fill out the promissory form if they are unable to do either.

Michael dela Cruz, President of the College of Arts and Sciences Student Government, says, “My initial reaction was shock. Natakot din ako para sa mga kapwa students namin knowing na hirap makahanap ng pera ngayon dahil nga sa pandemic.

I really don’t know what to feel but I was sure na we, the core council would file for an action regarding this matter.” (“My initial reaction was shock. I was scared for my fellow students knowing that money was hard to come by because of the pandemic.

I really don’t know what to feel but I was sure that we, the core council would file for an action regarding this matter.”)

CAS SG was one of the first to construct a letter to the Admin asking for an explanation of the advisory. At the following meeting, CAS SG covered all bases by asking for solutions for various scenarios which effectively clarified many of the students’ concerns. However, Dela Cruz continues, “After the meeting had ended I was still not satisfied na nakakuha ang core council and students ng

sagot from the university heads. I am still waiting for them to make an apology for the panic, anxiety and confusion they have caused to the parents and the students.” (“After the meeting had ended I was still not satisfied that the core council and students truly received answers from the university heads. I am still waiting for them to make an apology for the panic, anxiety and confusion they have caused to the parents and the students.”)

The dialogue between the Admin and the student governments had clarified and addressed different concerns about the payment of tuition and future actions in the Academic Year.

Specific and lengthened details of the meeting is available on the LYCESGO page as well as on the pages of the different respective CSGs.

LPU NOTICES & ADVISORIES A Guide for LPU Administration’s Contact Emails

By Roshenna Rapada

In the midst of pandemic and the new education system, we use different platforms of technology for online classes. We also have some major concerns or questions that we seek to be answered. It’s tough to physically go to the campus because of lack of transportation and the existing virus, hence, the following emails and contacts are made available to address your concerns and clarifications: marie.mones@lpu.edu.ph (College Secretary) abigeil.carlos@lpu.edu.ph (Legal Management and Social Sciences) oscar.gabriel@lpu.edu.ph (Department of Physical Education) haydee.dy@lpu.edu.ph (Department of English and Literature) rebecca.litan@lpu.edu.ph (Department of Broadcasting, Communication, Journalism and Multimedia Arts) elaine.tandoc@lpu.edu.ph (Department of Mathe-

matics and Natural Sciences) lpucas.sg@gmail.com (LPU College of Arts and Sciences Student Government) elearning@lpu.edu.ph (LPU e-Learning Department) accounting@lpu.edu.ph (LPU Accounting Department) registrar@lpu.edu.ph (LPU Registrar Office) ict@lpu.edu.ph (Information and Computer Technology Department) studentaffairs@lpu.edu.ph (Student Affairs Office)

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IATF eases age restrictions

By Chesly Mhelrei B. Donato

MANILA, Philippines — Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU) Manila campus posted on Thursday, October 15, 2020 its guidelines on in-campus transactions following Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) against COVID-19 approval on further relaxation of quarantine restrictions by expanding the age group that is allowed to go out.

LPU-Manila released new guidelines prior to campus entry

As online classes open, professors and students are still adapting to the new normal of teaching and learning. In this period of pandemic, the distance learning is at far the best we can do now. The Lyceum of the Philippines University – Manila has provided protocols for campus entry. Aside from emergency or any unavoidable requests, the campus is temporarily not allowing students of entry.

The Palace stressed, however, that minimum health protocols imposed by local government units (LGUs) must be strictly observed.

1.) Students must secure endorsement from Student Affairs Office via email at studentaffairs@lpu.edu.ph up to three business days.

According to Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque, the LGUs may still impose age limit for minors depending on the incidence of COVID-19 cases in their respective areas.

2.) LPU students or representatives advised to bring their school ID or authorization letter as it open from Mondays to Thursdays only at 8AM to 4PM.

“Puwede na pong lumabas ang mga minors from 15 to 65 years of age.

Pero ang mga local government units po ay puwedeng magtakda ng mas mataas o mas matandang edad para po sa mga menor na edad,” Roque said.

3.) No Mask No Face Shield No Entry policy. Students/visitors are discouraged to engage in conversation with mask/face shield off and must wear one properly.

LPU Manila stressed that students who wish to have campus access shall set an appointment via online or phones, to the respective office prior to the campus visit and must secure an Emergency campus visit request as an endorsement.

Previously, only persons aged 21 to 59 years old were allowed by the government to go out.

Exemptions only applied to activities related to accessing essential goods and services and/or reporting for work in permitted industries.

4.) Only students/visitors who are between 18 to 65 years old will be allowed entry to LPU. 5.)All students/visitors shall have their temperature checked by the guard-on-duty and recorded in the DAILY HEALTH SYMPTOMS QUESTIONNAIRE. 6.) All students/visitors must disinfect their hands and face shield first with 70% alcohol and must step on footbath mats for 30 seconds located at the gates prior to entry/re-entry into the campus.

7.) Proper clothing must be

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by Jovy Rodriguez

observed.

8.) The students must follow the unidirectional floor markings and all posted signage on safety and health protocols and shall always practice physical distancing at a minimum of 1 to 2-meter radius space (side, back, front) between workers.

9.) The bringing of food or beverage inside campus premises is also not allowed. Students are encouraged to bring their own pen, alcohol, or sanitizer.

10.) The ones whose coming outside NCR shall present Barangay Health Clearance (with dry seal) and/or Covid-19 Test result to be presented at the gate.

Only the student or one representative will be allowed to enter LPU. Companion/s will not be allowed entry.

11.) Students/visitors are advised not to go to LPU when sick or if with flu-like symptoms, COVID suspect/probable case, as well as living in lockdown/special lockdown areas.

Any person who refuses to follow the guidelines shall not be allowed to enter and may be subject to disciplinary actions.

These new set of guidelines would help us in achieving LPU’s goal in being a COVID- 19 free institution. We must follow these, accordingly, just as recommended by IATF DTIDOLE Interim and Supplemental Guidelines for prevention and control initial to this pandemic.

Keep on sailing with our dreams higher! Stay safe, Pirates!

FEATURES FORGING HEROES AT A TIME OF CRISIS

By Adelainne J. Balbin

Teachers have proven how crucial their role is in the lives of students. Whether they are driven by their passion for their profession or goal to become an inspiration to the students, teachers have laid out their effectiveness both as study mentors and second parents. With the effort teachers have put into their line of work, it is only necessary to extend gratitude and commemorate their service.

pandemic”.

Despite the massive outbreak brought by the COVID-19 virus, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) still vows to continue celebrating World Teacher’s Day every October 5. With the theme “Teachers: Leading in crisis, reimagining the future”. Being a teacher amidst the pandemic has posited a challenging obligation that is in dire need to prioritize. It was not anyone’s fault that a pandemic had to happen in the middle of a critical period of people’s lives. Even with the height of expected struggles to come, teachers have continued to do their best to be as reachable as possible to their students.

It is normal for teachers to feel anxious and be faced with problems given the predicament.Difficulties and uncertainties cannot simply be eliminated.

Moreover, the idea of online learning per se is “very new” and “very complicated”. That is why Mr. Castro reiterated that teaching at this time is an act of heroism. For Ms. Vicente, remaining optimistic helps her cope with the new setting.

In the Philippines, many schools and universities are already in the middle of their alternative mode of distance learning. With this already in effect, teachers also have their sentiments for the situation they are in.

Mr. Alfonso P. Castro, a Senior High school teacher from St. Paul College of Bocaue, expressed that the pandemic is a big challenge. Regardless, he believes that learning must not stop.

Thus, he agrees that the new method of online learning “is the best way to make sure that a generation continues to learn, amidst the uncertainty of this

For Ms. Shobie Roselle S. Vicente of the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) department from the Lyceum of the Philippines University, online learning excites her because this has already been practiced in other countries.

She admitted that teaching does appear to be a challenge, especially with her subject area.

see the good of online learning.

Mr. Castro was delighted that his students have become confident.

According to him, those who were not very participative during physical classes were more attentive and responsive now. Ms. Vicente was happy to know that she can have more time for her family because her daily routine would always let her go to school early and come home late. These reasons that bring them a great amount of joy help them maximize their pursuit as an educator amidst the pandemic. Mr. Castro uses this as an inspiration to become more than just a teacher on this new educational set-up. Being an educator motivates Ms. Vicente to keep on pursuing her studies and research for the future.

Being a teacher is already hard work in its flesh, and the pandemic sure had increased the stakes higher. Up until now, teachers are still striving to work on their adjustments with the “new normal”. Nonetheless, Teachers have their worries and adthey continue to sacrifice their justments they want to work on to be time and effort in making sure that effective educators. A realization Mr. learning will still prevail and that no Castro had to face head-on was the fact one will be left behind. This goes to that the usual first day of school was show that they are also leading in not welcomed with students — “that crisis, that they are bravely storming the place we have once called home the challenge to reimagine the future became a place of doubt and fear.” On of education. Indeed, teachers are the other hand, what was tough for a heroes serving with a purpose in this P.E. teacher like Ms. Vicente was that she wouldn’t be able to teach her students face to face and monitor their activities. From these answers, one can only know some of the obstacles teachers have to encounter in dealing with distance learning.

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serving food for many students already became a part of their lives. But, months after the pandemic started, how are the lives of these people inside Intramuros?

“Mga estudyante ang bumubuhay sa mga business dito. ‘Pag walang estudyante, patay,” said a person we talked to about the eateries in Intramuros since the pandemic began. These words alone painted the common story of eateries and other store owners inside the Intramuros. For these establishments, students give life not only in their businesses, but to the entire Intramuros. As through the years, students are the biggest customers of these eateries.

Why Intramuros without Students is Intramuros without Life

By Cedric Gallosa

What do you remember every time you think of Intramuros? Do you look back in moments when you visited the Manila Cathedral, Fort Santiago, or the Casa Manila? Walking inside this historical place today may no longer be the same. The narrative of people walking across its alleys and streets seemed to become another history of the walled city. The once lively Intramuros became a new place— an Intramuros with no life. As you walk further inside, you would probably reminisce your memories of Intramuros in its campuses, museums and historical sites. But more than these, you may also remember Intramuros in your favorite diners and the ordinary people you have met in this place.

For students whose universities are found inside Intramuros, to eat delicious and affordable foods everyday is certainly a great deal. With this, many students found the nearby eateries and food stores inside Intramuros a big part of their everyday lives. This is the same case for owners and workers of these eateries and stores. As for them, serving food for many students already became a part of their lives. But, months after the pandemic started, how are the lives of these people inside Intramuros?

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These eateries have also been the diaries of every student’s everyday stories. From ordinary late afternoon meals, celebrations of winning contests, and even gatherings of student organizations, these eateries are the places where every student goes. But, with all the social distancing, community quarantine, and suspension of face-to-face classes, these eateries have stopped writing the everyday stories of students.

Looking at the Intramuros today, most of the food stores inside are closed and owners have already gone back to their provinces. The once crowded with students fast food restaurants like Mcdonalds and Starbucks are closed. The computer shops where students rely on for their school works are closed as well. What is even sadder is some of these shops are now selling their computers. Lesser people only means lesser customer and profit. For some serving food for many students already became a part of their lives. But, months after the pandemic started, how are the lives of these people inside Intramuros?

“Mga estudyante ang bumubuhay sa mga business dito.

“Mga estudyante ang bumubuhay sa mga business dito. ‘Pag walang estudyante, patay,” said a person we talked to about the eateries in Intramuros since the pandemic began.

These words alone painted the common story of eateries and other store owners inside the Intramuros. For these establishments, students give life not only in their businesses, but to the entire Intramuros. As through the years, students are the biggest customers of these eateries.

These eateries have also been the diaries of every student’s everyday stories. From ordinary late afternoon meals, celebrations of winning contests, and even gatherings of student organizations, these eateries are the places where every student goes.

But, with all the social distancing, community quarantine, and suspension of face-to-face classes, these eateries have stopped writing the everyday stories of students.

Looking at the Intramuros today, most of the food stores inside are closed and owners have already gone back to their provinces. The once crowded with students fast food restaurants like Mcdonalds and Starbucks are closed. The computer shops where students rely on for their school works are closed as well. What is even sadder is some of these shops are now selling their computers.

Lesser people only means lesser customer and profit. For some of these owners, closing their stores is for the better. Even if this means closing the stores that gave them life over the years.

Many students would probably remember the food stores inside the Intramuros where they usually have gone eating. Students studying in campuses across Muralla street would probably remember the food stores in Kantunan, Liempuhan, and Parian for these stores’ delicious yet lowpriced foods. Many of the owners of these stores have also gone back to their provinces when the lockdown was imposed. Even the vendors on the sides of campuses where students used to buy street foods are also gone. For students, these food stores are more than places where they eat.

These stores kept the stories of everyday journeys of students in universities inside Intramuros.

“Malungkot ‘tong lugar na ‘to ‘pag walang mga estudyante,” said Lola Hydee, an old woman residing in the street of Muralla. For some, Intramuros may simply be a historical place found in the heart of Manila.

But, it’s definitely more than that. Just like Lola Hydee, within the walls of this incredible place lies the stories of ordinary people waiting to be written and heard. But, this pandemic has certainly made a different storyline for people like them.

The months of the pandemic has certainly written plot twists not only in the story of our country’s economy, but also to the social living of ordinary people. Our homes may have served as our haven against the virus, but that is not the case for them. For people whose daily income matters so much, the six months of lockdown is really a different story. While lockdown has halted the physical classes of students, it also stopped a large part of the lives of people in Intramuros.

Truly, Intramuros is a different place in this pandemic. As this crisis continues to impel the absence of students in this place, these diners and food stores will remain in this sad narrative today.

An intramuros without students is indeed an intramuros without life. As we continue walking today, it is with faith that as students return to their campus premises after this pandemic, the once lively Intramuros together with its diners and stores will return as well.

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Turista en medio de la pandemia (Tourism amidst the pandemic)

By Alexandra Uy

The Philippines is known for its remarkable landmarks.

Being rich in natural resources, it isn’t difficult to spot a destination wherever part of the country you are. Who wouldn’t want to visit the country with its budget-friendly destinations, hospitable Filipinos who will welcome you with warmth, and to top it all, more than 7000 islands that have become well-known in the world.

From cities to provinces, the Philippines got you!

One of the most famous and fulfilling places to go is “The

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Walled City” or popularly known as Intramuros. It is located in the City of Manila – also known as the Capital of the Philippines.

Intramuros is one of the best tourist attractions for locals, as well as foreigners. It is known for stunning historical structures that were built during the Spanish-era. Many people visit Intramuros to catch its beautiful structures such as Fort Santiago, the luxurious Manila Cathedral, La Casa Manila and other Filipino-themed restaurants.

Who would have thought that from 3.7 million visitors of Intramuros last year, it would reach the point of dullness for having not more than ten sightseers in the said place which is brought by the COVID-19 pandemic. It eventually overthrew the tourism industry in the country.

Since Lyceum of the Philippines University – our campus, is located inside Intramuros, we’re used to seeing it filled with tourists. Hence, one of the Imprenta staff, Reyner Valentin, was able to catch a glimpse on Intramuros to find out its current situation amidst pandemic.

You might’ve noticed that people are really limited in whatever angle of these pictures it was captured. There’s no need to fall in line to the arc of Fort Santiago to get a picture-perfect photo; No more couples holding each other’s hands while strolling – and perhaps talking about their future; no more street vendors selling ‘santos’, ‘abaniko’ and candles. Most of the vendors who used to sell their products on the sideways went back to their provinces because they can no longer grow their businesses in there. But, there’s one vendor left and is continuing to earn money to support his family.

He’s an umbrella vendor in the Cathedral. He’s selling his products even though it’s unlikely to have a customer who will buy them. He also mentioned that he was rented as a photographer before the pandemic occured. “Ang hiling ko lang ay magkaroon na ng gamot para bumalik na sa dati ang Intramuros na palaging dinadagsa ng mga tao”, said by the umbrella vendor.

Just like everybody’s wish, he wants to finally have a cure for this virus so that soon enough, the tourism will be back to normal, and so does his earnings.

The Lyceum of the Philippines University-Manila campus also shows its bareness for showing no students who use to crossed the roads holding their paper works; well-groomed with their uniforms and bags; walking with confidence and smile – which we sooner be worn rather than a face mask.

Surely we can’t say what the future holds. We never know when things will get back to normal, let alone if it ever will.

Going to places played a big portion in our lives before, and the sad truth is that now, even strolling around the neighborhood, seems like a risky thing to do. We can only hope for the best, and just follow what we’re asked to do until this catastrophe ends. For now, let’s travel with the use of our minds – let the adventures start from within.

Aside from the vendor, there were also Guardia Civils around the cathedral and said that they also noticed the bareness of the place, considering that there’s almost no tourists at all. Guardia Civil are the security guards along Intramuros known for wearing uniforms of Spanish regime that makes the place even more nostalgic.

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LITERARY PIECES Just Another War

Late Indian Summer

By Saihjee Galang

by Chesly Donato

The skies are gray The rain is about to headway And I’m still trying to keep up with the weigh It’s been a long delay, It may sound cliché, But I always thought of what if you had stayed.

The rain gives me a memoir of that Late Indian summer.

You held my hand as we wander, You fill the days of my summer rain with color.

A vivid picture of a lover What flutter? Why everything came crashing down like thunder?

As the rain relentlessly pelting, The memory of you keeps haunting, The thought of you keeps backing without a warning.

The gray, cold, wind-driven rain will soon stop together with the feeling of longing.

The sun will rise again and it will be bright again.

The memory of that late Indian summer will always be enchanting.

to being understanding, and all in between. We must see to it that there is a purpose for everything. That everything is a purpose.

It’s the pressconference season again. Have you ever felt the rush of your sweat as you sat on the chair in the competition room?

Looking from left to right, you see those determined boys and girls, with their dreams safely embedded in their hearts and minds. Their passionate eyes blazing like fire. Their hands ready for battle. Dubbed as the “Olympics of Campus Journalism”, the NSPC caters not only to the great talents of aspiring campus journalists but also houses writers that voice freedom---the truth. Or so I thought.

It may seem a little ironic but you see, SOME writers only speak up and show their skills when it is awarded those blinking golds. Writers are not, and should be not brought up in that kind of way. This system is blinding us to be hungry for recognition and awards, and not for actually seeing the essence and values one writer has to have.

Write to express, not to impress.

December 1931. Where it all began. Formerly known as the Philippine Secondary Schools Press Conference

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There are other ways in which we could showcase and hone our skills and talents. It does not require a competition for (PSSPC), the National us to be able to share, inform, Schools Press Conference is and educate others with these still competitive in terms of minds of ours. Competition honing and producing future is also not THE key in media-inclined people that fully growing individually. helps Filipino Citizens to With the advancement of be informed of the things technologies, we can have our that happen around them. own little ways to clear what The happenings and events for others is blurred, explain that they often neglect, as to others who are in doubt, if it doesn’t affect them in and help those who need help. such a way. World War II The world we live in can took place that momentarily give us more space to grow, stops the PSSPC. But in the and sources we could gather end, things come by and then to eventually live our life as we move forward. Now, we writers to the fullest. are facing the exact same thing. We are facing a battle We, wordsmith, should that stops us from meeting not settle ourselves on and competing with other being hungry for a mere journalists. A battle against competition. We should the COVID-19. However, go beyond the medals, the that doesn’t mean that we sleepless nights, the numbing should also bring to a halt hands, our sole purpose as a writer and endless training. Because --- writing to inform. everything will be useless if the storyteller focuses On March 8, 2020, the on winning the storytelling Department of Education competition and neglects to released a statement share the story itself. regarding the suspension of Yes, we may be longing all scheduled national and for the experience and the regional events that involves socialization, but remember students from different that during this COVID-19 localities next year. Mixed pandemic, the moment we are reactions were given by physically closer to each other, campus journalists, school the shorter our chances of paper advisers, trainers, and being able to share our stories parents. From being shocked with others.

the moon gives me hope e. 2:53 a.m. do you want to cut ties with me?

A fool I was, truly.

What is wrong in wanting to know, anyways? What is wrong in relentlessly asking for an answer unwavering with sheer transparency?

“You are hoping for things to turn out differently.” the woman in front of me uttered in a palpable tone of mockery.

I let out a dry laugh. Maybe?

But I could be wrong.

I’ve always been so negative of things, that’s probably why.

It’s my way to loosen myself from the hurt. The least my expectations were, the more I can move on.

At least, that’s what I thought.

Tonight, it’s a bit different.

The full moon’s glow isn’t restricting me to envision a better outcome.

Tonight, I will be kinder to myself and expect.

“What are you expecting?” she asked.

I turned away from the moon and faced the woman again.

Messages like “no, why would you even think that?” would send a tingling sensation in my being.” Even a “yes” that reeks of ambiguity would work. Heck, even an “i don’t know, i’ll see to it.” would make me hold on.

I could hope. I have hope.

This time, she spoke without words. She didn’t turn my words into an object of ridicule nor abhor my anticipations for something so least likely to happen. She just stared.

At first, I couldn’t crack the mystery stamped in her eyes.

It seemed so dim, like it suddenly became uncapable

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to feel. But as I continuously fixed my gaze on hers, I realized she had the same look as mine. She had similar sentiments embedded in her eyes; similar fragility, similar poignancy, similar desire.

Like me, she was hopeful.

I shifted my gaze away and turned off the lights from the bathroom. The door left ajar gave way to the luminous moon by the window.

Suddenly, I heard a faint sound from my phone. I didn’t look at it. I continued to focus my vision on my company above. But another sound reverberated. Then another, and another.

r. 4:17 a.m.

“Go on, you have your answer.” How sickening. Now, the moon wants me to go away.

How ironic is it to read such short, flashy, words and feel like a lifetime has passed?

It was inviting me again.

“I didn’t.” it said as if it heard my inner thoughts loud and clear.

And so, I quickly left the bathroom, gently closing the door and making my way through the dusted window pane.

If I dare opened my phone and looked at the answers now or later, I’d probably have the same reaction. So, what will change if I do it now?

It would be a waste not to embrace the chilly dead of the night. Receptive of my actions, I found myself staring intently at the moon again with the windows wide open.

Breathing a heavy sigh, I finally spun away from the moon and quickly closed the windows. I turned my attention to the poorly lit scenery of my cramped bedroom. At the right side of my bed was the flickering lamp shade above the dingy coffee table.

I can tell that its light was trying its very best to ignite, maybe even going so far as to keep the same hope in me glowing intensely.

“This was your fault.” I whispered while looking directly at the moon above as if it would hear me, as if it would actually know the real intentions behind what I said.

“I blame you.” another mutter.

Why did the moon have to shine calmly above there and trick me into feeling something that I wasn’t supposed to feel? I was fine with the inescapable loss. I was fine not having to conform with unlikely expectations.

But it gazed at me. Its glow lured me to leave the pit of darkness that I was once in and rip my inner adversities asunder, pulling me in to believe that it will have the same light I’ve secretly (and desperately) yearned for.

So, I believed.

For once, I wanted to expect good things. I severed thoughts of having the least expectations so I could stray away from pain. I could hope.

There was hope.

By Adelainne J. Balbin

Then there’s my phone lying atop of my bed. Slowly, I lied in bed, covered myself with the thick sheets of my comforter and held my phone in one hand. I unlocked it without looking at the notifications I received earlier and opened the Twitter app.

There, at the left side, was the direct messages icon waving at me.

There’s no other way to find out, I guess. I clicked the icon and opened the latest unread messages. Four minutes ago, it said.

My breath I didn’t know I was holding made my chest ache.

The glow of hope is being wrenched by my insides. It was there. Right in front of my sight was the answer, the very last thing that could let me decide if I made the right choice to follow the moon.

yes i’m sorry i think this is for the best

For one second, just one second, I held on to the moon. Maybe those words will be taken back, maybe I’d get fancied with “no, i was kidding! that won’t even cross my mind!” or other messages alike even if it was completely unruly knowing the atmosphere of our conversation.

This is me expecting good things. This is me yearning for hope. So, can everything please, please turn out the way I’ve wanted it to be?

But nothing happened. At least from the phone that I held.

There came something different, something foreign.

I tried signaling to the moon but instead, I was welcomed with a big blob of blur. My cheeks felt hot and my mouth felt something watery.

These tears have got to do something with the moon, right? Why did it have to be so cruel? Why did it even bother to stop me in getting away from the hurt when it was what I have always been doing.

Another lifetime has passed when the phone that was untouched for so long died out, as well as the flickering light of the lamp shade.

A fool I was, truly.

It was pitch darkness everywhere. Not even the light of the moon could suffice.

And right at that very moment, the glow of hope also vanished.

EDITORIAL BOARD

JAZZMINE NICOLE QUIAMBAO EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

CHESLY MELREI DONATO NEWS EDITOR

RYAN DARL DEL ROSARIO FEATURE EDITOR

ERICA MAE BALOGBOG WRITER

JOVY NELLE RODRIGUEZ WRITER

JOAQUIN VICTOR TACLA WRITER

ADELAINNE BALBIN WRITER

SAIHJEE GALANG WRITER

ALEXANDRA MAE UY WRITER

REYNER JOSHUA VALENTIN PHOTOGRAPHER

PAULA PRING PHOTOGRAPHER

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PLACEHOLDER ROLE

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