The Carrier Magazine Volume 54 No. 1 | August - November 2021

TheCarrier FO R STO R I E S , W E S A I L . FO R T RU T H , W E D E L I V E R .

MOVEMENT

VOLUME 54. NO. 1 AUGUST-NOVEMBER 2021

TheCarrier

THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF JOHN B. LACSON COLLEGES FOUNDATION (BACOLOD), INC.

ABOUT THE COVER

VOLUME 54. NO. 1 AUGUST-NOVEMBER 2021

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mdpn. Rengil V. Mana-ay

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Jasele Mae S. Priolo

MANAGING EDITOR Mdpn. Ruer G. Torculas

ASST. MANAGING EDITOR Mdpn. Chryshan Nheil F. Alejano

FEATURE EDITOR Mdpn. Mark John P. Priolo

SPORTS EDITOR Mdpn. Gerald C. Diano Jr.

LITERARY EDITOR Mdpn. Carlo Miguel O. Barodi

NEWS EDITOR Mdpn. Angelo Ryan D. Giltendez

LAYOUT AND GRAPHICS EDITOR Emmy S. Nava

PHOTO AND VIDEO EDITOR Nele Stephen M. Pacurib

PHOTOGRAPHERS Mary Aileen R. Labios Mdpn. Vince Dave T. Duquilla Mdpn. Bab Christian Sanchez

GRAPHIC ARTIST Beanne Y. Jaca

STAFF WRITERS Angelic Cheil Feril Jeremy Josh Alojado Mdpn. Jerric R. Claridad MODERATOR Alyn G. Libertad. MAEd

OFFICE Door 1, PEA Center, John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation (Bacolod), Inc., Alijis, Bacolod City 6100

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EDITORIAL POLICY. TheCarrier is published once every year as the official magazine of John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation (Bacolod), Inc., Pauline Village, Alijis, Bacolod City. TheCarrier accepts original articles from students and faculty. We edit contributed articles and provide correction for write-ups that need modification or improvement. All contributions must be legibly written and double-spaced. All submitted articles automatically become properties of TheCarrier.

She was a wall reaching the skies, guarding the lives that brim behind her protection. She was a life source where millions thrived on the shelter she provided. But, time could only tell; the once strong and sturdy wall is slowly torn into pieces brick by brick. The people she sheltered no longer valued what she gave and asked for more than she could give. Her wails echoed on the ears of many and had demanded to make a movement.

To protect and preserve— the long-term and continuous movement of everyone who fights for the conservation of Northern Negros Natural Park, the last frontier of the island, sprouting life and beauty within it.

Terra, she was named. She sits still to provide home to the thriving lives she shelters. Time has come that she no longer holds importance to the people that seek more than to what she can offer, but those who battle for its purpose move to never replace her. While Terra sheds her tears, a movement progresses to protect what is left for Negrosanons.

EDITOR’S NOTE

Back in the Middle Ages, Black Death was a pandemic that devastated the populations of Europe and Asia, which led to the emergence of the Renaissance— one of the greatest epochs for art, architecture, and literature in human history. Now, centuries after, the COVID-19 pandemic confronts us with a choice: to freeze, turn away from others, only care for ourselves; or to turn toward others to support and comfort those who need help. This consequently paved the way for various movements to spring.

It’s been more than a year since a single strain of virus put billions of people around the world to a halt. We may have been confined, restricted, and limited, but that doesn’t mean

that we may no longer be able to do the things the way we want to do.

Art. Choices.

Emotions.

Innovations.

Environmentalism.

In this issue, we deliver you the stories we sailed about these narratives and more. As COVID-19 has rocked our foundation as a community, it also has brought a new sense of enlightenment: of the urgent need to transform the way we consume, move, and live together as a society.

Rather than staying still, ponder about things. How do you choose

to move forward after a devastating event in your life? How are the youth of the world fighting to preserve their future? How are you taking part in the movement?

Ask yourself.

As you read this issue, may their stories resonate in you to continue fighting even if it seems you’re losing; to continue moving despite the hurdles along the way; and to continue hoping because there will always be that beacon of light amid the darkness.

RENGIL V. MANA-AY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

CONTENTS 06

ARTS Between a Rock and an Art Place

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COVER STORY Cry of the Last Frontier

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EDUCATION The Reality behind Modular Learning

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VALUES CORNER Employed by Dreams

DISCUSSION Moving forward with grief and ashes

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HUMAN INTEREST Serbisyo at Aliw sa Gitna ng Trapiko

CULTURE Diksyunaryong Pangkomunidad para sa Komunidad

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MARITIME Redefining Seafarers: An Insider’s View

HUMAN INTEREST Changemaker by the She (Sea)

TOURISM The Pledge to Sustainability

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ARTS A leap of fate

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DEVCOM Agrikulturang Kinagisnan, Pinagyayabong ng Kabataang Myrianne

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HOW-TO Travelling in the New Normal

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LIFESTYLE Sir Dioko’s route of a healthy life and travel

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POP CULTURE The Big Screen: From Theaters to Online

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SOCIETY Don’t be a Drag, Just be a Queen

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TECHNOLOGY Cryptomania

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CULTURE What you think might not be what it is

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MARITIME The Ship of Tomorrow

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SCIENCE Beyond science and numbers

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SEA EXPERIENCE Defying the Seven Seas: A Cadet’s Journey amidst the Pandemic

HUMAN INTEREST The Alter Phenomenon

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REVIEWS FILM

Bo Burnham: Inside

DOCUMENTARY

Monsters Inside: The 24 Faces of Billy Milligan

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ARTS

Between a Rock and an Art Place How artists managed to persevere during the pandemic. words by MDPN. CARLO MIGUEL BARODI photos by MARY AILEEN LABIOS

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n the bustling groves of a concrete metropolis, where the normality of masks and plastic has taken over, lies a hidden world. Frozen yet oddly moving, a cacophony of bright and vibrant colors mashed into wonderful paintings. Statues and sculptures pop out in a dreamlike way. And to top it all off, an array of buildings, each housing different unique art pieces.

Hard to believe that such a place could exist, especially during these challenging times, but it’s real.

The Art District is one of Bacolod City’s central hubs for artists, with a menagerie of different art galleries and studios that showcase their incredible works.

But despite containing a pleasant atmosphere, artists have fought tooth and nail just to keep art and the Art District alive. This is how they overcame the crisis that affected the world.

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BUILT DIFFERENT

Everyone has their own strengths.

Whether it be talent, skill, physical fitness, we all possess something that makes us different from the other. This uniqueness is what ultimately defines our capability. For artists in The Art District, a few things set them apart from the rest.

“Every Art Gallery to me is unique and different since they showcase different art but for me what’s interesting about the Art District is that we are diverse, everyone is open to share their art, it’s not just a place for different galleries it is a community,” says Brandon Braza.

Brandon, along with Zanna Jamili are both prominent artists in their 20’s. They are among the many artists located here in the Art District. Their artworks can be found in the KALIBUTAN - The World in Mind art gallery.

Coincidentally, what Brandon said coincides with what another artist in the area had to say. Fred Orig, 65 years of age, an outstanding artist from the HUBLAS Gallery, said “Diri nga area open style diri, wala namon gina pungan ang mga idea sang artist, puede gid ma view sang tanan.” (In this area we practice an open style, we don’t stop artists from expressing and showing their ideas, it is open for everyone to view.)

The idea of an open space for art combined with the community artists makes the District more lively. It attracts people in a friendly way, allowing them

to gaze and take photos of different art pieces. There are no lines, no waiting for your turn. Everyone is free to come and go as they please. With such a setting, it is no surprise that the District still gets people from time to time. The District also has a variety of other establishments, cafés, restaurants, studios, a bunch of places where people can, overall, have a good time.

ART IN MOTION

Artists are no strangers to isolation.

They lock themselves up in their room to create staggering amounts of art; both young and old have dedicated their time to honing their craft. But with

the emergence of the pandemic, life came to a sudden halt, but does that mean creativity stops with it? In fact, the pandemic only served as the catalyst that sparked the needed creativity for artists to take action.

“During the pandemic Orange Project had initiated a collaborative movement, artist made art that would be sold and the percentage of those sales would go to the Pawssion Project that will help stray cats and dogs who were left outside by people during the pandemic, the project also gave groceries to artist, who at that time were not prioritized during this new normal. The whole Art District space before the pandemic was totally different, but overtime during this pandemic the Art District became a place where we could still express ourselves and build ideas,” shared Brandon.

“We are also going through VIVA, a virtual art ex-conference, one of the spaces is currently a part of VIVA 2021, which really helped artists and anyone who goes to Art District to maintain even just a little of what we had before, which was really important for us to keep going,” added Zanna.

Although limited and lacking what it used to be, artists did not stop what they were doing, even going as far as helping other organizations in need. The influence of social media and technology also helped maintain the District, revitalizing aspects that they were completely missing.

“Diri sa amon sang pag pandemic,

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diri kami nag focus sa guha, mga mural kag exhibit nga gin display, which is what serves as main attraction gid sang Art District… Damo di nga mga ga kadto nga mga bata-un gina himo ang paintings as backdrop para sa ila social media, mga tiktok bala, amu na isa mga pinasahe diri sa amun,” stated Mr. Fred.

(During the pandemic we focused a lot on the outside, the murals and exhibits displayed around the District are what really serves as the main attraction.

Because of that, many people, especially youth, use the place as backdrops for their social media like TikTok, which is

worthy of respect, even for just a moment.

THE ROLE OF ART

Art has always been a companion to those who seek to express themselves. We turn to it as a solace, healing ourselves from the burden of the mundane. It also helps us bridge the gap between history and the present without realizing how important art is.

“At first I thought Art was unnecessary during this time, but I was wrong, I realized that more people are looking forward to Art, for them it is like a form

“It reminds us of the past, as well as being a form of preserving it. It reminds me of what it used to be, and because of that it helps me to keep on going, even if it is just for a bit.”

Art can also capture a moment in time, grasping fleeting seconds and preserving them. Because of art, we can look back and reminisce about the past, learn from it, and eventually move forward.

“Gina pakita namun nga bisan may pandemic continuous ang amun ideas para lang ma pa kita na namun nga buhi kami biskan ara ang pandemic. Even

really what makes this place so different.)

It’s crazy to think that people still find the time to make a substantial impact in situations such as this. Granted that the risks involved in moving during this time are quite considerable, but even so, this did not stop artists from moving onwards. The art community’s contributions to alleviate and preserve what we loved before are nothing but

of therapy, and as an artist we are able to supply them through our works,” said Brandon.

Artists have this brilliant gift that allows them to help others using their artworks. They can instill emotion, attuning viewers and giving them something to think about. But art doesn’t just stop there.

“Art has helped me become productive during the pandemic,” said Zanna,

through ga-struggle kami tuod, wala kami gapadala sa pandemic nga wala kami gahulag,” remarked Mr. Fred.

No matter how bleak and monotone the world is now, there is still some color left. Release all your pent-up frustrations and indulge yourself in creativity. Who knows what you’ll make! And if you ever find yourself stuck between a rock and an art place, choose art. You’ll feel a lot better afterward.

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DIRI SA AMON

Female Nude Continuous Wire photo by MARY AILEEN LABIOS

This Continuous Wire Sculpting is found at the Balay Negrense Ancestral House, done by one of Silay City’s Artists, Ian Valladarez. It is made up of one piece of wire— no cuts from the start-up to the last part. Silay City is deemed as the cultural and artistic center of Negros.

TOURISM

The Pledge to Sustainability words by JASELE MAE PRIOLO photos by THIRD WAVE & NELE STEPHEN PACURIB

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he buzzing sound of vehicles and the chattering of passing locals have consumed the 6th Street, Narra Extention, Brgy. Villamonte in Bacolod City. There, built and lies a restaurant manned and owned by a woman whose values and dreams are not only kept for herself but the community.

On June 1, 2020, Laverne Alit Traifalgar’s love and passion for coffee materialized as they launched the grand opening of her coffee shop, Thirdwave. Supposedly, it will open its door to the masses on March 25, but due to the first strike of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was postponed and moved months away.

Laverne and her husband’s fondness for coffee inspired the creation of Thirdwave. It began as a modest coffee business because the owner planned to keep it that way. However, when the food business industry’s trends changed, it transformed into a restaurant built on sustainable principles.

Trudging on with her café business despite the pandemic, she understands the scare and risks it will cause to her business and customers, so they conceptualize practices that will put her restaurant to light amid the pandemic. When the vaccination process had begun, she immediately got her staff vaccinated for health security and insurance to the customers. She also came up with innovative ideas that keep her consumers talking on social media and bring in new patrons.

Thirdwave was just humbly standing and busily serving its customers when it gained national attention, as it was featured on CNN for

the “in-car dining” experience that it provides. It is dining out inside the safety of your car and is available on prior reservations. There, a customized table is served together with the client’s order.

According to Laverne, she came to this idea when a grandpa and his five grandkids visited the restaurant.

Because the seating capacity in their outside set-up is stringent, with only two seating capacities, she couldn’t allow the grandfather to dine in due to health and safety standards for dine-in clients. The grandpa’s displeasure was palpable.

“But you will know from his face that he wasn’t delighted, so we came

up with an idea that maybe we can serve them inside their car,” Laverne said as she shares the story behind in-car dining.

In-car dining was one of her concepts that stands to the ideals of their restaurant in pursuit of prioritizing service customization and satisfying customers’ demands. This is also the restaurant’s way of transforming disadvantages into opportunities. But this restaurant’s feature was just a key to unfolding the real game plan of the business as it strives for more.

With the limitations and long duration of importing supplies from other places caused by the pandemic and the rooted struggles it has provided to the entire economy, she decided to look for local growers in Minoyan, Murcia, from where she came from, to supply coffee beans. Instead of opting for foreign brands and suppliers, she chooses to support local. She even employed the daughter of one of their farmers as one of her staff to provide jobs to people in her locality.

At Thirdwave, they organize team-building activities and training to increase customer satisfaction and impose on the staff the weight of this subject. “We put the training to our staff on how to do excellent customer service...

I always instill in them that it would not just be for the benefit of my shop but also for them to have an extra mile on driving sales and having client loyalty,” Laverne said.

Every service done by the restaurant boils down to its mission of providing genuine service.

They know that the food and service couldn’t speak for themselves, but quality does.

They ethically do everything and ensure that they give justice to their clientele.

“During unavoidable lapses, especially during the afternoon where there is massive foot traffic, as much as possible we change [the order] 100% or free [it] 100% free just to compensate because we care for their demands. Nowadays, your earnings of money and spending are different because it’s pandemic, and it is very difficult to look for it, so we want the money they spent to be worth it … so again everything boils to genuine

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service to the guest. We always put service satisfaction first.”

The Thirdwave’s journey in upholding ethical and social responsibility has continued as it operates, but what made it stand higher than others is its pledge to minimize and eradicate the use of single-use plastic.

Their campaign strengthens when they pledge themselves to be part of the “WALA USIK ECONOMY.”

Wala Usik Economy is a local circular economy movement by the Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation Inc. (PRRCFI), a non-government organization. “Wala Usik” is a native word that means “nothing is wasted,” and it applies the zero-waste and circular economy ideas to the local context. The PRRCFI, which pioneered Bacolod’s

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first zero-waste café in 2019 and collaborated with eight other sari-sari businesses around Negros Island to develop micro-refilling stations, is the inspiration for this initiative.

“Helping small businesses and the local economy pivot during the pandemic, while also working towards ecological sustainability and better solid waste management, is what the Wala Usik Economy will aim to achieve,” it said.

To reduce or prevent single-use plastic waste, amid the current health and socio-economic challenges, Thirdwave commits itself to participate in this movement. Banana leaves placed in rattan, and bamboo-like plates were used as one of the zero-waste practices of the restaurant. Metal straws are also replaced

instead of plastic straws. They also let customers borrow food containers for take-out items, but they require a registration to secure the borrowed items. Take-out beverages are also put inside a glass bottle instead of plastic cups and containers.

Laverne, the restaurant owner, understands best and is fully aware of the environmental and socio-economic problems in the community.

Hence, she obligates herself to at least do her part as a responsible citizen.

“Unfortunately, we are not educated to see the bigger pictures. We are not trained to visualize the bigger impact. So I said to myself, it has to change, even if we say that I’m the only one doing this, but at least I did my part and contributed in my ways.

And now in my restaurant, many were inspired but hopefully not just for a day, for five days, but for the long term.”

Laverne worked on a cruise ship for 17 years and is now living with her dream business.

The quest for sustainability in any business should not only be distinguished from its good contributions as ‘charitable,’ but should also be viewed as an obligation— something non-negotiable. Now, instead of waking up to the strong current of waves on a cruise ship, she gets up from her bed, goes to her restaurant, with the knowledge of social value creation as central to their business purpose, and advocacy of reliving the sustainability in her endeavors.

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MARITIME

Redefining Seafarers: An Insider’s View The journey of two seafarers who embarked on a ship with their sail swaying through the hurling winds and waves of their maritime career. words by MDPN. GERALD DIANO JR. &

MDPN. MARK JOHN PRIOLO photos by ELIJAH BARIOS &

RICHARD MENDOZA

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fter years of dreaming inside the four corners of the school, now sailing in the glorious seas with boldness and determination. Seafarers with different stories of victory and triumph over the arena of unimaginative penitence reminisced their past and continuously added color to their present journey. With the help of their talent and newly discovered capabilities, they were able to shine in their career and showcase their own definition of their chosen profession.

Elijah Barrios and Richard Paul Mendoza are only two of the many people who have embarked on the challenge of the maritime industry.

Elijah Barrios, an Alumnus at Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines, is a proud product of John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University, a 3rd Officer onboard, and a superb podcaster.

With numerous awards since then and as a beneficiary of the cadet scholarship program, Elijah is a complete display of excellence.

While Richard Paul Mendoza is a graduate of Philippine Merchant Marine School, the winner of the Marina Video Contest with his short film entitled “Laban Lang”, proved that seafarers are not enclosed in their profession but are diverse with hidden talents bubbling to shine.

THE NOT SO GREAT EXPERIENCES

Seafarers’ voyage differs from ship to ship. Dealing with different people with diverse cultures, beliefs, and traditions is a norm in the industry.

Richard’s experience during his venture as a seafarer was not a thing to be put on a bucket list. Being exposed to harsh treatment from a captain is not a situation one wanted to come across while on board. He describes that event as the worst treatment he ever had. “For the first 8 months of my career, I have experienced probably the worst treatment that I ever had from my Captain,” he stated.

Elijah also experienced the struggles of unpleasant treatment on the path of his career.

“I think bullying was really the biggest one. It was really stressful when I was in my cadetship program, second cadetship ko, I had a captain who I didn’t know. He really doesn’t like the idea of having cadets onboard and he always takes it against us that we are program cadets… There was no physical abuse though but

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there was a lot of mental abuse already.”

Despite all the negativity they managed to survive the unprecedented encounters.

For they are seafarers, they are trained to be resilient and by becoming one they already know that it will not be an easy path.

“Surviving is already a question of why, diba? Why do I still survive what’s my motivation and it always brings me back why am I onboard, it’s a cliche…,” he added.

SEAFARING IN THE EYES OF SEAFARERS

No other professionals can describe the hardships and struggles of another profession, but only a person in the same track can fully understand and appreciate the true meaning of being one.

Richard describes seafarers as brave.

Anybody can be a mariner but being able to withstand all the unexpected circumstances is a different story.

“Seafarer is someone who has a

brave heart, mind, and spirit. Anyone can be a seafarer, but only a few can be able to handle the pressure and the amount of emotional stress that it could give to someone,” he stated.

Meanwhile, in the eyes of Elijah, seafarers are the persons who chose to sacrifice. He believes that traversing the high seas and waves and being away from their family is an act of sacrifice but should not be deemed as premium.

“Sacrifice is a part of human nature and seafarers are just exercising their human nature by trying to sacrifice at sea, but one thing I really like about seafarers is that they are really brave individuals. I can understand that a lot of people sacrifice a lot about themselves but no one would even justify how much sacrifice they can give trying to brave the 6-meter waves in the Northern Pacific ocean.”

PASSION AND TALENT ABOARD

Onboard the vessel, there are talents and passion being suppressed due to the

demand for work. Amidst the challenges, they eventually find a way to do what they love while earning at the same time. Elijah discovered the world of podcasting where he interacts with people from different places and shares his thoughts about topics outside seafaring.

“Actually, I just gave it a try and I was listening and I just kinda fell in love with the idea that are you trying to listen to conversations and you relate to the conversations and in the way you are connecting to people, you’re sharing your thoughts to other people, and you are accompanied by people who do not necessarily to be present around you. So, that was one way for me to have an outlet, a sense of community.”

His topics about the trivial details in shipping that are actually needed to be discussed piqued the interests of listeners, earning him thousands of subscribers.

“I think when they feel at home not only with my stories but with the podcast.

happened to me or someone close to me, it was just presented as a film or a photo. Everything has a meaning.”

So I think that was one good thing talking about this nuisance or little details in the seafaring industry because that makes them feel that what they do are normal things and what they did were things that are experienced also by other people which makes them feel at home.”

On the other hand, before boarding a ship Richard’s eagerness in filmmaking cannot be called a hobby anymore. Plans had already been drawn and he was ready to embark on another vessel after passing the Licensure Exam. But, his friend offered an opportunity to be part of his growing company which is almost the same as what he earns onboard. He grabbed the chance and journeyed on a path that lay a mystery ahead.

“It started way back when I was still a high school student eh. I have this eagerness to show everyone what they’re missing— the true color of life. Film making for me wasn’t just a hobby, it was a portraiture of my life as a whole. Many of my work actually has a relevant event that

the shipping industry. This means we cannot continue normally on our day-to-day lives without them especially during the pandemic.”

On the other hand, Elijah believes that the “seafaring and more” concept is flawed. With all the smiles etched on his face, he confidently stated that it is time for us to be “seafarers and proud.”

“I think that when we define seafaring industry it doesn’t have to be seafaring and more, it has to be seafaring and proud. Because what we do is already enough to make us feel proud and we do not need to be more than seafaring to be able to feel that pride.”

Seafarers could have all the different meanings. They could be a hero, a father, a mother, a child, and many other more definitions of what they could be. And it always depends on how people see things from their very own perspective. Being able to give one meaning is a privilege and not a notion to be questioned.

A NEW MEANING

Through the experiences, they gained as they hurdled the loneliness of the sea, the hardships, breakdowns, and surpassing unprecedented situations their view about things changes.

As the struggle increases the more they appreciate and a deeper understanding of what they do will develop.

Richard’s definition of seafarers is somewhat contrary to the view of Elijah, he believes seafarers are rightful to be called the modern-day heroes because they play a big part in the global economy.

“Seafarers are modern heroes. Not because of their income but because they’re actually the ones who run the world. Statistically, 90% of all global imports and exports are controlled by

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PAANO ‘TO

Diksyunaryong Pangkomunidad para sa Komunidad Ang diksyonaryong online na magtuturo sa inyo ng Cebuano, Hiligaynon, at iba pa. words by ANGELIC FERIL & MDPN. VINCE DAVE DUQUILLA graphic art by MDPN. CHRYSHAN NHEIL ALEJANO

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akakalumbay isipin sapagkat hinayaan na lamang natin na pabayaan ang kakayahan ng ating kultura dahil sa kolonyal na mentaledad. Dulot nito, unti-unti nang nakakaligtaan ang ating mga pangungahing wika o mother tongue. Sa katunayan, ang Pilipinas ay tahanan ng mahigit 170 wika—ilan dito ay nanganganib.

Sa kasalukuyang pag-unlad ng teknolohiya, hindi maitatanggi na bilang na lamang ang nagbabasa ng mga aktwal na libro, lalo na ang diksyonaryo.

Kahit na tayo ay tuluyan nang nahum-

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ali sa teknolohiya, lamang pa rin ang pagkamalikhain natin bilang Pilipino.

Kaya naman nagtipon ang grupo ng mga mananaliksik mula sa Unibersidad ng Pilipinas kasama ang mga piling unibersidad sa iba’t ibang rehiyon ng bansa upang buhayin muli ang mga katutubong linguwahe. Dito inilunsad ang Marayum sa pagsisikap na mailigtas at mapangalagaan ang mga wikang ito sa pamamagitan ng pagtuturo sa mas maraming tao.

Layunin nitong makaabot sa iba’t ibang etnolinggwistikong pangkat upang makapaglaganap nang mala-

wakang impormasyon na makabuo ng mga disksyunaryo ng mga katutubong wika. Ang Marayum ay pinopondohan ng Department of Science and Technology (DOST) at patuloy na nasa ilalim ng pangangalaga ng Philippine Council for Industry Energy And Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOSTPCIEERD).

ANU-ANONG MGA LINGUWAHE ANG NILALAMAN NG MARAYUM? AT ANO NGA BA ANG LAYUNIN NITO?

Ang hangarin ng proyekto ay ipalaganap ang katutubong wika sa

pamamagitan ng online na diksyunaryo sa tulong ng mga rehistradong miyembro sa linggwistikong komunidad na pangunahing gumagamit ng kani-kanilang katutubong wika at sinisiyasat ng mga dalubhasa.

Ang Marayum ay kasalukuyang tumatanggap ng lahok patungkol sa mga lokal na linguwahe. Sa kasalukuyan, ang mga katutubong linguwahe kagaya ng Hiligaynon, Cebuano, Kinaray-a, at Asi/Bantoanan lamang ang mga naitatampok o nilalaman sa Marayum.

Mayroong 513 salita para sa Asi-English, 632 sa Cebuano, 595 sa Kinaray-a, at 559 naman sa Hiligaynon.

Ang mga wikang nabanggit ay maingat na isinusuri upang kumatawan sa lawak ng wika. Para sa mga gumagamit at ibig na gawing sangguniang ang diksyunaryo, ang tamang pagsipi ay

nakahain din upang wasto ang pagbigay ng kredito.

PAANO GAMITIN ANG DIKSYONARYONG MARAYUM?

HOME: Pindutin ang nais na diksyunaryong gagamitin. Nakalagay rito ang Asi - English, Cebuano - English, Kinaray-a - English, at Hiligaynon - English.

PAGPILI NG DISKYUNARO: Pindutin ang diskyunaryo at saliksikin ang maaaring magamit na wika at tignan ang mga nilalaman ng napiling diksyunaryo.

PAGPALIT NG LINGWAHE: kapag nasa unang pahina ng diksyunaryo, pindutin ang “SELECT DICTIONARY” opsyon upang mamungkahi ang Select dictionary pop-up.

DASHBOARD: Pumunta sa Log in/

Apply na pahina. Kapag naka log-in na, deretso ito sa Dashboard sa kung saan makikita ang patuloy na pagsusumite sa diksyunaryo.

TUNGKOL SA MARAYUM: Tingnan ang mga detalye tungkol sa proyektong marayum sa Marayum.ph Team.

Ang paglahad ng ating mga saloobin ay may makapangyarihang dulot sa pagbabago at pagbangon ng nasyonalismo ng ating bansa. Mainam na gamitin ang sariling mga linguwahe upang mailahad ang mensaheng nais iparating ng ating saloobin sa kababayan nating patuloy pa ring ginagamit ang katutubong linguahe. Sama sama tayo sa paghandog ng critisismo sa ikabubuti ng sambayanan gamit ang sandata ng katutubong wika.

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DISCUSSION

Moving forward with grief and ashes A year after the pandemic, many lives have been claimed. But given the odds, how does one experience grief and loss if the situation stole their last goodbye? words by MDPN. RUER TORCULAS graphic art by BEANNE JACA

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t wasn’t the sound of a 5 am alarm that woke up Angel on a weekday morning. It was the gentle reminder from her grandmother downstairs prepping their breakfast meal, telling her to get ready for another day of work.

But this time, with an uneasy feeling from sleepless nights, Angel woke up from a 5 am phone call from her cousin, breaking the news to the family that her grandmother had already passed away.

She completely froze for a second as tears ran down her face and her knees weakened from shock– she hadn’t said

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her last goodbyes yet.

This heavy-hearted scenario is vivid for Angel Mae Gangoso, a faculty of John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation – Bacolod, as she has to face her grief for the first time of losing someone so close to her in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic.

REWINDING THE LESSONS AND LOSS

With the overwhelming sadness, Angel tries to live up the name of her lola, Angelita Javier, as it has become the basis of her first name. “Since I was

born, isa gid siya nga nagpadako sakon, ever since nagpakasal si nanay kag tatay, si lola naga stay gid na siya sa amon.”

Angel recalled her upbringing with her lola being there until she had her job.

Her late grandmother’s courageous spirit and kind-heart as a breast cancer survivor has taught her a lot in life as she was growing up. In times that people are trying to take advantage of her, she was always reminded by her lola’s gentleness.

“Hambal niya tadhana lang na ang bahala, mahatag kaman gyapon sang kindness sa kalibutan kay halos tanan subung in

vain na, so dapat isa ko sa mga tawo nga mabilin nga mayo gid ya.”

Angel also reminisced every time she came home with medals and awards in her elementary days, her Lola would always light up in happiness. She shared that her grandmother was proud of her and overjoyed after she graduated from college then passed the board exam, and now that she is pursuing her Master’s Degree in Mapúa University.

“Subong nga ara na ko sa adulthood nga determined nako to give back tapos amo pani ang natabo, pila palang gani ka years gin kwa na siya, daw ka unfair gani,” she lamented.

It was severe COVID and pneumonia that claimed Angelita’s life at the age of 77. “Grabe to hibi ko kay gin panumdom ko nga she wanted to live somehow pero wala na kaya sang lawas niya kay tigulang naman siya,” she said. “Gahambal na lang ko at least subong wala na siya may gina batyag nga pain, kay basi wala man kami kabalo if there are complications na daan.”

STOPPING OF RITUALS

According to Jeff Cylde Corpus (2021), in a Journal of Public Health of Oxford University, grieving is ‘an innate part of what it means to live a full and rich life as a human.’ The COVID-19 pandemic may evoke grief in a more complicated process than what people are used to during the pre-COVID-19 pandemic. These losses can happen simultaneously, which can complicate the grief process and delay one’s ability to adapt, heal, and recover— given the current situation’s shift compared to pre-pandemic burials.

“It was hard sa amon sa nag COVID positive si lola kay quarantine kami for two weeks, tubang mo apat lang kami, that time matulala ka na for pila ka days kay wala makaugyon simo nga iban nga family.” Angel expressed. It was also the shift to a traditional burial that hindered the processing of emotions.

Social distancing, lockdown, and limitations of in-person gathering have changed the way friends and family gather and grieve. “Kay kalaw-ay man bi lantawon nga ang remnants sang imo loved one, abo na nga ara sulod sang urn. Indi ka grieve kay ara siya sa urn. Lain gid ya kung ara sa coffin maka grieve kagid makahibi ka gid tudo nga makita mo,” she said.

Based on Julie V. Palma, a faculty member, and a psychologist, carrying out these practices offers a sense of comfort, stability, and security. “As a Filipino, this kind of cultural ritual regarding death is fundamental, providing ways for the community to support the bereaved families. Through these kinds of rituals, it influences the expression of grief.”

With the console from her family, she was able to somehow alleviate her burden. “Ang pagcomfort man sa iban nga no one ever wanted that, in case ikaw man bi ang carrier, gina panumdum nalang nga basi dira na lang gid asta si lola mo. Wala man may mahimo if basolon ta pa ang self, ga-add lang sa burden sa guilt. Batonon ta nalang gid kay wala naman ta choice,” Angel uttered.

TO PAUSE AND LISTEN

“Grief is a natural response to loss, especially when someone very special has taken it away from you. However, moving forward is part of the process and healing. Yet, for some people moving forward is hard and complicated, considering the intensity and cause of pains,” Palma emphasized, referring to how people losing their loved ones cope.

Each of us grieves differently. People may feel various emotions, like sadness, loneliness, guilt, and no one can control the process. Basically, it affects the person’s behavior and even changes their perspective in life. “It’s possible that time will not heal all wounds for innumerous reasons. Although time is not exactly the healer, somehow it depends on how you promote healing,” she said.

Palma added, “There is some factor that differentiates those who move on with time and those for whom time seems to provide the opportunity to become more embedded in a loss or grief.” Sometimes, we need to consider the nature of time and the nature of wounds, especially in traumatic death.

Everybody actually heals on their own timeline. With that, as a family or as a friend, we also need to reach out to people experiencing it to provide them with emotional support.

Acceptance is a journey— a long process towards healing. Along the way, they will experience all kinds of difficult and unexpected emotions, from shock

How can I manage my emotions?

Acknowledge when you’re not feeling great.

Spend a day or 2 observing your thoughts and actions. How do they clue you in to your emotional state?

Record these observations in a journal.

Allow yourself to feel your emotions.

Don’t judge yourself or your emotions.

Just feel them and accept them so you can move past them.

Express your emotions in a healthy way.

Cry if you need to. When people feel sad, they may withhold this emotion out of guilt or shame.

Understand that both negative and positive emotions are essential.

Resist the temptation to hide or withhold your negative emotions.

Source: Mental Health America

to anger, guilt, and profound sadness.

How someone heals over time depends on how they decide to use that opportunity to shape their present and future circumstances.

Similar to other families, the restrictions have denied the chance of seeing their loved ones on their deathbed or even mourning and celebrating their life through a proper burial. Bereaved families like Angel’s were sometimes left with no choice but to speed their recovery from the remorse and grief.

The rising death toll in the country, may it be unrelated to COVID-19 or other causes of death, indicates that many Filipino families are trying to climb on the mountain of grief and loss. When the dust settles, it is unfair to say that we have survived through the test of times if names have been erased in existence.

Their names may project through the numbers of daily death recount flashing on our screens, but for some, it only means moving forward.

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COVER STORY

Cry of the Last Frontier words by MDPN. RUER TORCULAS & MDPN. MARK JOHN PRIOLO photos by NNNP FACEBOOK PAGE & NELE STEPHEN PACURIB

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s her luscious greenery of hair stretches spans of land it had been a canopy— a safe haven for those in need. Her body, strong and sturdy, had withstood all the calamity.

Reigned with elegance and beauty, she was titled the guardian of the land. Alas, Terra, she was called a bastion of Negros.

It is unbeknown to some Negrosanons the mountain’s name that stretches in the northern part of the province.

With her distant range, the highland, Terra, refers to as Northern Negros Natural Park (NNNP), stands as the last frontier of the island, sprouting life and beauty within her. But, over the years, the name NNNP was more than just a mountain to some people; it had become a movement— a hard-fought 20

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cause that continues on the frontline to protect her very existence.

Formerly known as Northern Negros Forest Reserve, the Northern Negros Natural Park (NNNP) is one of the protected areas in the Philippines under the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System Act (ENIPAS) of 2018, in which these places must be protected against anthropological activities for environmental conservation.

Efforts from different sectors and organizations for protection and preservation have existed through the years, but the area that covers a total of 11 local government units (LGUs), including the cities of Talisay, Silay, Victorias, Cadiz, Sagay, and San Carlos, and the towns of E.B. Magalona, Toboso, Calatrava, Salvador Benedicto, and Murcia has been a struggle that continues until today.

DEPENDENCE OF LIFE

According to the Department of Environment (DENR), the NNNP contains the province’s largest watershed, the last intact watershed here providing water for the locals and people outside its range. It supports irrigation, domestic

use, food, livelihood, and flood control. The watershed irrigates approximately 13,277 hectares of rice farms and 500 hectares of sugarcane plantations and supplies the 3 million Negrosanons, including Metro Bacolod.

“The reason why it’s declared as a natural park is because of its biodiversity significance because of the endangered and threatened plants and animals and at the same time our endemic species,” said Elmeer Meeynard Calimpos, an environmental advocate and member of Green Alert Negros.

The protected area has been the home of endemic fauna and flora, especially the threatened and endangered species, such as the Negros Bleeding Heart Pigeon, Visayan Warty Pig, Visayan Spotted Deer, and Red Lauan. On the figures shown by Foundation for the Philippine Environment (FPE) in 2014, there are 436 flora listed, of which 16% are endemic. In fauna, there are 81 species recorded, comprising 20 amphibians and 61 species of reptiles. Also, 53% of the total bird species recorded in Negros have been reported in the reserve.

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In addition, the ancestral domain of the AtaNegrito tribe is located in the natural park, wherein they live and utilize the resources of NNNP to survive. These numbers indicate that there is life thriving in NNNP as it serves as their last hope to exist and is the bloodline of Negros.

BATTLES FOUGHT IN THE LAST FRONTIER

The old forest reserve covers an area of 80,454.50 hectares in the past, but, on a recent statement given

by Calimpos and Protected Area Superintendent Engr.

Joan Nathaniel Gerangaya, it now only makes up 70,000+ hectares of land. Showing an estimation of 10,000 hectares of diminished land area alerted the groups that will question the drastic drop in numbers later on.

With so much history that it holds and life persisting in the area, it has become a tug-of-war for environmental

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advocates to protect what’s left on NNNP. But, to whom falls the responsibility of protecting this source of life? It is the duty not only of the government but also the people.

“There is a misconception that they thought it is the failure of the DENR to regulate and to enforce the law but the protected area is a shared responsibility,” Engr.

Gerangaya said.

Amid the questions of who should take part, Calimpos, an advocate for preservation together with his colleagues in Green

Alert Negros, had long been awakened from the crisis NNNP is facing and had taken measures to mitigate actions that will cause harm to our last frontier.

As it stands to be the provider of the island, people seemed to not know the importance of this for granted treasure. Illegal activities penetrated along with the illegal structures prior to its pronouncement as an area to be protected.

“If it’s 94 illegal structures in 2014, how much more in the present?” In a discerning voice, Calimpos emphasized that Negrosanons should be alarmed and to know how dire the situation we are in.

“We always go back to the argument why we have this NNNP as a protected area because it is our life support system. That’s why many call out to save the trees and all, but it is also imperative that they should know the reason why we have to save the NNPP,” he added.

“Although we have the

directive to demolish these illegal structures, we should have an agreement with the local government units instead of ordering the engineers to demolish the structures,” Engr.

Gerangaya implied, considering the structures were built before it was named as a protected area.

A solution was made by the agency in order to adapt to the current situation, referred to as 60, 30, 10; wherein 60 percent of the area of the business should be an allocated tree planting site, 30 percent should be their agroforestry,

and the remaining 10 percent should be the area where structures could be built. If the business area has no tree planting area, they should adopt a place equivalent to 60 percent of their area.

THE LONG FIGHT

Not only are the lives of endemic plants and animals being threatened but also those who continually fight for its protection.

“I was actually thinking of the safety and welfare of not only myself, but for my family, and friends as well...

There are members of the organizations that aside from being threatened, they’re being offered an amount of money to not pursue the causes, especially that of the MKNP,” Calimpos narrated.

Despite the scuffles in his cause, he remained persistent in confronting the risk he knew was there.

Backed with the latest annual report of Global Witness, a UK-based international human rights and environmental group, noted that the Philippines ranked third in the world with VOLUME 54. NO. 1

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29 killings making the country ‘the worst place for land and environmental defenders in Asia.’ These dangers were rampant since the guardians of our nature who often served in the battlefront of this war were sometimes caught up in the crosshairs of red-tagging.

“But at the end of the day, you know to yourself that you have a clear conscience; you’ve done something to protect the last frontier of our province. Sometimes, when we are stripped off of our water supply, a thought comes into my mind, ‘Hala amo ni gali ang feeling nga wala na tubig sa ulihi.’ These are our basic needs which came from our forests,” Calimpos emphasized.

Neglecting the protection and conservation of these natural resources will amount to a cataclysmic effect not only on NNNP but also on cities and municipalities who are depending on their source of water in these watersheds.

It displaces the indigenous tribe, specifically the AetaNegrito tribe that resides in this mountainous region.

With the last frontier

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standing on the verge of loss, its name unveils a lot of challenges to fight for what’s left for Negrosanons— a home and provider. NNNP still stands firm as the environmental advocates and conservationists ploddingly work, drying their throats for their voices to reach those in the positions and making actions for protecting the treasure cherished for

generations.

Terra’s heart bleeds of sorrow for affrays the land had fought, but tears of hope linger in every drop. As the people heard her wails, it moved the heart of many and has answered the call that yearns for the strength of all. Terra came a time to be the only guardian of the terra firma, but now, atop all the hardships lies the united heart of people, it has become a shared struggle.

As her people have become the guardians of Terra, she stands tall to carry the legacy and pass on the hope for the future generation.

Terra and her allure had prevailed— a cause worth a movement.

DIRI SA AMON

Old Port of Mambulac photo by MARY AILEEN LABIOS

Built in 1933 by the Italian architect Lucio Bernasconi, the port was considered one of the longest in Asia, with an approximate length of 1.7 km. During the Japanese occupation, the port was heavily bombed and has since been abandoned. Now, the place remains as a picturesque sight on sunsets.

ENVIRONMENT

Changemaker by the She (Sea) words by MDPN. RENGIL MANA-AY photo courtesy by PRRCFI

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pril 22, Earth Day 2021— The successive clanging of her phone’s notifications awoke her while the world focused on environmental issues amidst a pandemic and climate crisis. Despite the slow mobile internet connection where she lives by the coast of Brgy.

Bulata in Cauayan, Negros Occidental, she was astounded to see friends and colleagues tagging her all over social media because the former US First Lady Michelle Obama featured her as one of the “5 Young Women and Girls Fighting for Climate Justice You Should Know.”

This sparked a media frenzy that the modest Carmela Ellaga was unaccustomed to. As she began speaking in interviews for TV and online media, she embraced being a voice for her small rural coastal community struggling with the impacts of climate change. The recent interest in Carmela’s life and work is a milestone for the Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation whose work emphasizes empowering people as community leaders for conservation.

“I feel really honored that Michelle Obama has recognized my efforts, and I am very happy that she shared my story. I hope that I was able to reach and

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inspire my fellow youth and women to take part and take action to fight for our world. I am also very glad to represent coastal communities and the fisheries sector,” Carmela shared.

Growing up, having fisherfolk and farmer parents in a small coastal village in Cauayan, environmental conservationist Carmela witnessed the daily life of fishers. Her family lives close to the shore, and her mother is a traditional squid fisher, so she has experienced firsthand the impacts of climate change on their home and the sea, which is their source of food and livelihood.

“If fisherfolk can’t go out to fish, they have no income.”

FROM A YOUNGSTER

Carmela recalls hearing stories of the water teeming with fish, manta rays, and sea turtles when she was a child.

The vibrant marine life provided food and a source of livelihood for her family.

Those stories, however, no longer fit the current reality as she grew older. Rather than extolling abundance and prosperity, local fishermen expressed alarm about dwindling harvests and increasing sea levels. From there, she knew she had to do something.

“Samtang gadako ko nag-start na

ako socio-environmental awareness.

Both my parents are fisherfolks and my father is also a farmer. Namulat ko bala nga gakalatabo sa kalibot, mga bagyo… kung paano siya gakaapaekto sa palangabuy-an esp sa farming and fishing.”

She became interested in climate change at a young age because her village is located across the Danjugan Island, a wildlife sanctuary and marine protected area in Cauayan, Negros Occidental. Carmela became an environmentalist at the age of 15. She learned and taught conservation and sustainability as a scholar, eco-guide, and camp facilitator at the Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation’s Danjugan Island Environmental Education Program (DEEP) (PRRCFI).

Having been exposed to different movements inspired her to pursue her Bachelor’s degree in Fisheries at Carlos Hilado State Memorial College (Binalbagan), where she graduated Cum Laude.

“Sa camp nag-nurture kag nagstart. Amo man to naghatag sa akon inspiration nga mag-take career sa fisheries. Didto man sa camp naka-meet kami sang mga marine biologists, scientists, and you learn with them. Bilang bata ka, hangang hanga ka gid bala haw and like

I wanna do this, and daw gusto mo mag amo man na, didto gid nag-start akon nga journey.”

TO A CHANGEMAKER

Now, 22-year-old Carmela is a PRC licensed Fisheries Technologist and a Scuba Schools International certified freediver. Her dedication and contribution have led her to work as the Community Officer of PRRCFI, recreating initiatives of the ProCoast project in South Negros. The ProCoast project is part of the International Climate Initiative aiming for sustainable coastal protection through biodiversity conservation in coastal ecosystems affected by typhoons in the Philippines. She ensures that fisherfolk associations, people’s organizations, women, and youth participate in the assessments, management planning, and decision-making for the sustainability of the coastal resources they depend on. Here, she has to creatively translate and contextualize the principles and practices of sustainable fisheries and climate mitigation for every activity she is a part of.

“Ang gina himo namon gina-suportaran sa pag revisit kag sa pag-strengthen liwat sang ila Marine Protected Areas

and mag-set systems and also ang mag support sang biodiversity assessment and mag-establish sang mangrove ecoparks nga may ara sila.”

“...Para ma-ammend ang mga sang una nga ordinansya nga kung ano pa gid ang applicable sa sini nga tuig or tungod wala siya na-implement before. Dira mo man makita kung diin sya baskog, sa enforcement bala or nagtaas bala ila fish biomass or may impact bala sa ila community. Kung diin mo makita ang kulang, dira ka makabulig. Kag mabatyagan gid sang mga taho nga kung ano ka importante ila mga natural resources nga kung diin sila man gakuha pangabuy-an.”

FROM HER COMMUNITY

Sea levels are rising faster and faster, threatening 700 million people who live on the world’s coasts. Experts forecast that by 2100, sea levels will be two meters higher than they are today.

These and other numbers can be overwhelming, but Carmela remains hopeful and takes steps as much as she can.

As a community facilitator for a USAID-funded campaign, Carmela helped local convenience stores reduce single-use plastics, such as individual

packets of shampoo, coffee, and laundry detergent, of which the Philippines consumes roughly 60 billion per year.

These Wala Usik, or “Zero Waste,” convenience stores let customers fill reusable containers from large dispensers instead of buying items in single-use plastic packaging, giving them the affordability and flexibility of individual portions without the plastic waste.

After just seven months, this program reduced the sale of single-use plastics by more than 45,000 pieces.

“My contribution may be small but if we all refuse plastics and make sure our products are responsibly sourced, then we can have a big impact on protecting our planet. It is my vision that all people, governments, organizations, and communities will work hand-inhand for a sustainable future.”

TO THE WORLD

Girl Rising is a global campaign for girls’ education and empowerment.

Their mission is to change the way the world values girls and ensure girls everywhere can be full and equal participants in society. Girl Rising did research looking for young Filipinas who are changemakers. They took an interest in

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the Philippines, as it is among the most vulnerable and impacted by climate change.

The continuous and persistent efforts of a young, dedicated Filipina have drawn international attention. Still, Carmela hopes that this will translate to actions of support for communities experiencing extreme weather events, sea-level rise, coral bleaching, degradation of habitats, and decline in fisheries.

Carmela’s story reached Girl Rising, and she was chosen to be featured on behalf of the young Filipina candidates, based on her story and achievement for her community. This led to Michelle Obama taking notice.

In the 2021 International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Global Youth Summit, she was invited to speak for the Chester Zoo Youth Board on “Models of Youth Engagement in Conservation Governance: Making Young Voices Heard.”

“My education led me to where I am today. As a fisheries technologist

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working in an NGO [PRRCFI] that works for conservation and partners with the local government units, I was able to participate and become more involved in decision making for our community, drafting and implementing environmental policies.”

Carmela’s journey through community engagement and collaboration with the fisherfolk sector has enabled her to advocate for gender equality and sustainable environmental governance.

She believes that a woman and the youth are needed in times of crisis. In the future, she hopes our fisherfolk sectors will be given vital importance, and women in her community will be given opportunities to change the world— to create more meaningful impacts towards more sustainable oceans and marine resources.

“Ang kalibutan ta nagaisahanon lang. Hindi na gid ni siya mailisan. Kag subong dehado na ang iya kahimtangan nga kinahanglan ta na siya protektahan kag kinahanglan ta na gid sa ya ulik-

dan.”

Carmela represents the women and girls rising to the occasion— raising awareness about the issues confronting their communities and taking action to protect their homes. People like Carmela constantly remind us that everyone should be included in the discussion and decision-making, that she is not alone in this battle for change.

Carmela is leading a movement, which she believes that even in one’s own way, can contribute to the community and to the Earth. She believes that amidst it all, hope finds its way because to hope is to act.

It’s morning— She awoke from sweet slumber while the calmness of the waves greets the shore as the beaming sun rises over Cauayan. Carmela then grabs her bag and slips out of the house. Sauntering by the serene coastline to her project site, she checks out over the ocean that she is so passionate about protecting, “This is our home, and we need to protect it.”

DIRI SA AMON

Inasal nga Nipa-nipa photo by MDPN. VINCE DAVE DUQUILLA

Coastal areas of Hinigaran are teeming with “Nipa-nipa” or sea eel. A target of fishermen, trawling from midnight to dawn owing to bulk sales by inasal merchants. Inasal nga Nipa-nipa is an appetizing dish on a stick, roasted on top of burning charcoal, with a smoky fragrance yet a delectable taste.

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MAKATAONG KAWILIHAN

Serbisyo at Aliw sa Gitna ng Trapiko words by ANGELIC CHEIL FERIL & MDPN. GERALD DIANO JR. photos by BACOLOD CITY PIO

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a unang pagtilaok ng mga manok, ang diwa niya’y gising sabay ng pagsuot ng kaniyang uniporme. Handa na siyang sumabak sa abalang kalsada. Ang init ng araw na dumadaplis sa kaniyang balat, ang usok na nanggagaling sa mga sasakyan ay ‘di maiwasang malanghap, at ang mga reklamong nanggagaling sa mga tao na tila ba’y naging musika na lamang.

Ibayong sipag at tiyaga ang arawaraw na pinamamalas ng traffic enforcer na si Jemar Valencia habang higit na iniisip ang kapakanan nang karamihan kay sa sarili. Para sa asawa’t nag-aantay na anak, si Jemar ay isang huwaran at dapat na kabiliban sa kanyang makulay na paraan ng pamumuhay. Pinili ang magtrabaho at magpamalas ng talento at patuloy nagpapahanga sa mga komyuter.

Dagdag niya, isa pa sa malaking dagok sa init ay ang mga motoristang mainitin ang ulo at abusado. Pinapaliwanag ni Jemar nang mahinahon at inaayos ayon sa batas trapiko.

“Marami na rin akong nakasulubong na mga motoristang mainitin ang ulo. Kung ang driver ay suplado, kalma lang ako, at mahinahon kong pinapaintindi ang ang violation in a nice way,” ani Jemar.

Subalit, sa kabila ng pagsubok na hinaharap ni Jemar ay hindi pa rin siya nagpapatinag. Patuloy pa rin ang serbisyo at aliw na nais niyang ihatid sa komyunidad. Lalo na ngayong pandemya, hindi siya pinanghihinaan ng loob

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na sugurin ang mga hamon na sasalubong sa kanya araw-araw.

“Misis ko kag anak ko, lahat ng ito ay para sa kanila, especially kay God. At para rin sa mga motoristang bumabyahe araw-ara na makita ko lang na ngumiti sila, napapawi na rin ang pagod ko,” wika ni Jemar.

Likas sa bawat Pilipino ang maging talentado, at pagiging matiyaga. Sa hinabahaba nga naman ng trapiko at init ng araw, hindi pa rin magpapahuli ang mga tunay na hari ng daan sa pagpapakita kung ano ang mayroon sila. Padyak sa kanan, talbog sa kaliwa, at gumiling-giling na para bang na sa “dance floor” ang mga ito. Walang pinipiling edad kasarian man basta’t sila ay nakakapaghatid nang saya buong tapang nilang hinarap ang responsibilidad sa abot ng kanilang makakaya.

Salungat man sa katuwiran kung pakikinggan, ang pagsayaw ay naging solusyon upang aliwin at

tanggalin ang inip ng mga pasahero upang maiwasan ang mga pasaway sa trapiko.

Ang dulot ng Covid-19 ay hindi lamang nakakaapekto sa kapakanan ng lungsod at mga tao, naapektohan rin nito ang tanging mga bagay na nag bibigay saya sa lungsod ng Bacolod sa pamamagitan ng pagsayaw, ang Masskara Festival.

Ang Masskara Festival ay isa sa pinakakilalang selebrasyon sa buong mundo. Libu-libong turista ang dumadagsa sa Bacolod upang masaksihan lang ito. Ang tawa at ngiti na nasa maskara ay sumisimbolo sa pag bangon at pag-asa ng mga Bacolodnon mula sa hirap noong panahon ng gutom at krisis na naranasan sa probinsya ng Negros. Kaya ngayon sa panahon nang pandemya, tila ba parang naulit nanaman ang bangungot ng kahapon pero dahil nga maparaan ang pamunoan ng Bacolod naka isip din sila nang paraan upang maibalik ang tuwa’t aliw kaya napag-isipan nila na sa lansangan pa din ito makikita.

Buhat nito, ginamit ni Jemar Valencia ang opportunidad ng kompetisyon upang muling buhayin ang diwa ng pagdiriwang ng Masskara Festival sa pamamagitan ng pagsayaw gamit ang musika nito. Sa kabila ng paghabol ng hininga at kurot ng init ng araw, siya ay natutuwa sapagkat naibahagi niya ang kaniyang talento sa madla.

“Masaya masaya talaga ako kasi kahit papano, may nakaka-appreciate ng aming serbisyo.”

“Mapapangako lang namin na kahit umulan man o uminit, pagbubutihin pa namin ang aming serbisyo sa gitna ng trapiko bilang traffic enforcer,” pangako ni Jemar.

Tanging apresyasyon at ngiti lang ng mga tsuper ay nakakapagpawi ng kaniyang pagod at nagpapalakas ng kaniyang pagpupunyagi upang mag serbisyo sa lungsod. Gayunpaman, hinding-hindi mo aakalain na hindi lamang ngiti ang dahilan kung bakit masigasig ang lungsod, sapagkat sa likod nito, ay ang serbisyo at aliw sa gitna ng trapiko.

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EDUCATION

The Reality Behind Modular Learning words by JASELE MAE PRIOLO & MDPN. MARK JOHN PRIOLO photos by NELE STEPHEN PACURIB “Module daan budlayan man sila, kung kis-a kami nalang ga answer gani.” The words of a mother who is struggling amid the set-up of the current educational system.

W

hile other students are busy writing their stories of experiences and survival on flexible learning, some parents are engrossed in teaching and answering their children’s papers on the modular aspect. It is a complex task that leaves them no choice but to be held responsible.

Living in the suburbs of Bacolod City, Jessah Joy Sibugan and her family happily reside in a small home at Purok Sto. Niño, Brgy. Pahanocoy. Taking care of her four children with the eldest child aged 10 and the youngest aged 1 year and 2 months, she manages to carry on a day of being a housewife and a teacher for her children at the same time. Her three children study at Luisa Medel Elementary School; while, her husband Ricky Sibugan, 34 years old, is a shoe repairman during the daytime and a tricycle driver at night. Due to poverty, they have to hustle every day, otherwise, they will have nothing to put on their table and, worse, will be unable to fund their children’s education.

Since the pandemic hit, life has been quite challenging for her. Being a 33-year-old mother in a household of six with three children studying in a modular set-up was taking a toll on her. Dividing her time on teaching and house work was a burden to be faced on a basis.

All schools had been closed, making it impossible for any of them to function. This situation pushed the government to create new ways to keep the country’s education system afloat, but with a new structure that eliminated school-based learning. As a result of the new learning modalities, Jessah and her children, like everyone else, are experiencing a culture shock.

“Super kabudlay kay syempre mang himos kapa sulod balay may gamay kapa pag abot sa ano may module kapa duwa pa tudluan mo,” stated by Jessah on a weary face of tiredness.

According to her, managing their time as a parent may be tough at times, especially because she still has to cater to the needs of her youngest son. Instead of simply having two duties in the house as a wife and a mother, she now had to fill in the duty of a teacher as well. Because tutoring her children on

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all subjects takes time, she sometimes prefers to answer them herself to save time.

The new set of modules was returned and picked up every two weeks, which means that Jessah will devote a couple of hours every day to it once more. She could not blame the kids for continually requiring her help with key subjects because even she is struggling to grasp all the lessons in the module.

The lessons in the module, in her opinion, are inappropriate for their age and grade level.

“Pero may-ara gid ya nga time ila bala nga module may time nga indi angay gid bala sa bata. Nga daw kabudlay bala

i-explain. For example, may ara bala nga English nga indi gid bala nga matsindihan ka bata, nga ka dalom sang term nga ila gid bala nga pang grade.

Budlay parehos sa Grade 1, may ara sang math nga problem solving nga daw komplekado nga daw indi gid angay sila. Dapat ang grade 1, plus palang na bay kag minus. Te amo na dapat. Na anhan ko kay nabudlayan ko bala sila haw. Kapin pa damo.”

Cyrel, her eldest daughter, and her younger siblings, who are studying, seek the assistance of their aunt, Ressa Sibugan, a Senior High School student, when things go beyond their com-

prehension. Ressa has been the go-to person for Jessah’s children whenever they have trouble understanding what is intended in the module. Cyrel found learning in a modular environment difficult since she had no one except her family to rely on, unlike in a traditional setting when a professional teacher is there. When asked if she is ready for the secondary level given that she will be graduating this year, she answered, “Indi pa, kay daw wala pa ko mayo may nabal-an.”

When the wind blows in favor of them, their father Ricky, who is working his bones to provide for their family’s

needs, finds time on his exhausting day to teach his daughters and son on their modules. Fulfilling his role as a provider, he works day and night, and sometimes when there is still energy after a long rigorous day at work, he willingly assists his children in doing their modules. Battling the fatigue and stress, he continues to be a supporting father for his family.

Exemplary efforts had been delivered to support the children yet a sudden choice to temporarily stop their education is unavoidable for the thinking of Ricky. “…sini tani nga tu-ig pauntaton ko sila, galing nanugunan ko

mag-pauntat sila. Kanugon ang tinu-ig.

Kay si Papa ya nag hambal nga pauntaton sila. Kay last daan nabudlayan kami mag tudlo module, kay may gamay ko months palang sa daan. Te syempre may sulod balay ka pa, mang laba ka pa, manghimos ka, wala na kami time mag tudlo siya. Kis-a kung magtudlo kami indi pasa kabalo masakit mo ehh,” sentiments from Jessah.

The way the teachers see the situation is not far from how the struggling parents deemed the situation to be.

On an empathetic statement given by Leah Pacurib, a Master Teacher, “…ka very sad as teacher… Ang modular nga indi ya makita ang teacher ya sa face-

to-face, budlay-budlay gid ya. As parent, kung ako mag batyag, ako bi indi ko mayo kabalo bi tapos ma tudlo ko sa bata ko, ano itudlo ko kung wala ko may na mang-an?

“Indi na mahikutar ka ginikanan kung damo-damo… Paano tapuson ka isa ka bata ang 16 modules, so ang akon advice sila nga kung ano masarangan sang bata like padala lang isa.

Anhon mona ang tag-apat sa isa ka semana nga indi na masarangan... Ang maestra gani nga naga-explain gaka budlayan, ayhan pa sa basahon lang sa module… Bahala na isa lang ka module basta may matun-an ang bata sang sa apat ka module nga wala may ma

tun-an ang bata,” she added.

The current situation affected us, but not all are lucky enough to be just staying at home browsing the net while on a comfy couch. Others are on a silent struggle. Hidden from the sight of many are families who are plowing their days just to continue their living amid the pandemic. The silent weep of the parents and frustrations of the children could never be written on just mere words on paper. It is meant to be understood and felt to share the struggle. Let yourself not be bound on where the lenses focus but on the areas where your lenses could not reach.

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VALUES CORNER

Employed by Dreams words by JASELE MAE PRIOLO photos by CARLO OWEN BARBAS & LUCKY LEE GARCIA

He turned off the alarm and pushed himself out of bed at 6 in the morning.

He wears off his mask, then lays down his back on the sofa, and falls asleep at 6 in the morning.

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hese are the different scenarios of two fresh graduates who hustle themselves to save up for their training fees and company requirements. The moment Carlo tidies and conditions himself for a long-day exposure to the heat of the sun is the same moment that Lucky rests himself from a chilling commute from his graveyard shift. Two contrasting settings with one common denominator: dreams.

BENEATH THE SCORCHING SUN

It was midday, and some were enjoying their lunch while resting at home, but it was different for Carlo Owen Barbas, a Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering graduate. While everyone else is attending the meals in front of them, he is out under the blazing sun delivering food door-to-door.

Carlo is the eldest among his three siblings. Knowing that the cost for his training is quite expensive, he then applied and worked as a Food Panda Rider after graduation. He wanted to become independent to support his financial needs and experience what lies ahead of it.

As a freelancer, he can choose the working hours that are convenient for him. Usually, he goes to work at 7 in the morning and sometimes at 11 a.m., and it ends up at 7 or 10:30 in the evening.

According to him, this freelancing job is not that hard compared to his previous jobs as a customer service representative and a Shopee Express rider, wherein his fixed salary could not compensate for his sweat and unwavering determination.

But instead of settling for those, he shows courage in the face of adversity.

Now with his job, he is more enthusiastic and delighted.

“In food panda, all you need to have is 100 pesos for your one-week load and 110 pesos for the gasoline, then you can earn 8000 pesos in a week by just picking

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race, and not all have the same privileges in life, but I choose to strive than to depend on my parents because I know at the end, all my hard work will be worth it. And it feels good that you are paying for your training with your own money, and you will take your training seriously since you know hard it is to earn those.”

THROUGH DAYS AND NIGHTS

“I spent my birthday and Christmas last 2020 here in Bacolod City, graduated without a family member with me, and I am expecting that the last pages of my 2021 will be no different.”

Those were the words of Lucky Lee Garcia, someone who outbraves both the fear and uncertainty of setting foot in a foreign land —no friends, family, or anyone he can rely on. It might be a horror to some, but he considers this as an early training to strengthen his emotional capability— a significant factor, especially in the maritime profession.

Lucky is a native of Batangas who went to Bacolod City to pursue his education and career in the Maritime industry. Here, he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering. Being not that well-off, not everyone believes

that he will survive and finish his education far from home and with limited resources.

“I came from a poor family, and the fact that I have reached this stage of my life is the very proof that nothing is impossible.”

When everyone else thought that it all ends after graduation, Lucky stands that it does not. After graduation, he planned to go home to Luzon but considering that there are still requirements and training that need to be completed for cadetship, he decided to stay in Bacolod. He also wanted to support his needs, which resorted to eagerly looking for a part-time job; this ignited his desire to apply as a customer service representative in a prominent company.

Lucky has been accepted by an international company, and he assists customers within the United States and overseas. His work involves taking customer calls and helping them resolve the issues or concerns in their handsets.

As a newly employed and still in his six-week training, he works in a flexible schedule due to various shifts to cover the 24/7 demands of the customer. Eight hours of duty and one rest day in a week.

This means he can fall into different working shifts and could not avoid being sleep-deprived due to the nature of his work. Except for dealing with customers with a nasty temper, and unforgiving attitude, he sometimes skips meals or has it late. But this is not a cue for him to stop. The warmth of his dreams is bigger than the cold breeze of the wind.

Committed to his goal, he swept away the touch of fatigue and weariness. Instead, he performs his job with utmost excellence. He does it with a dose of patience and understanding, providing the best customer service experience. For him, physical and emotional drains have no room in his voyage to his career.

According to him, he has already started his training, with two more left. His salary and allowance will compensate for his remaining training courses and requirements. When asked how he feels about his batch mates

up orders and then dropping them off to the customer’s designated address. It’s just that easy… and sometimes I found this job enjoyable,” Carlo stated.

But despite enjoying his job, all endeavors have their equal corresponding angles of severity. He may not find his work complex, but his enemy there is the weather and his body. With health being the collateral, no one could ever go wrong.

Understanding the threat of occurring inevitable road accidents and intense exhaustion, he remains steadfast in his stance for the quest of his dreams.

Carlo hasn’t started his training yet because he is still saving enough money for the fees. He admits that some of his batches have already embarked and now sails for their future. Some are starting up and a few meters away to finish training, and some are living in the same situation as he is— waiting for orders at a fast-food restaurant, driving under the harsh sear of the sun. But he never equates his pace as lagging behind, since he believes that everyone has their own time.

“No pressure at all since it is not a

getting a step ahead of him, he answered that he does not need to pressure himself too much because everything takes time and what is more important is to breathe and find ways rather than to be anxious about everything.

“Setbacks, failures, and insufficient resources may hinder you in achieving your long-term goals, but if you are a man of your dreams, and you keep yourself motivated, you can dance and sail with the waves no matter how unforgiving they are,” he quoted.

As we went to a complete reset two years ago, the maritime industry did not bend down in delivering and transporting basic needs worldwide, braving the threat to their safety. The plight and efforts of our fellow seafarers towards their dream and mission cannot be understated. The days and nights for these two men may be different or the same to everyone else, but they do understand that these are the mornings and evenings where their dreams matter most.

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ARTS

A leap of fate words by MDPN. RENGIL MANA-AY photos by MARK GARCIA FACEBOOK PAGE

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he set was ready. The cast was on cue. As his crew was bustling around doing the set design, he picked up long white cloths and wrapped them around in the actors’ faces. He shouted “action!”, starting the first sequence of his film.

But something seemed nostalgic with the scene. The faces he wrapped with long white cloths reminded him of the people he had written about back then— not for the screen but the press.

EVERYTHING ABOUT MARK SCREAMS STORYTELLING

Mark Raymund L. Garcia is a budding Negrense filmmaker who is making waves in pursuing his passion in film

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making. He started making films when he was in college as a requirement in his course. Growing up as a cineaste, he recalled his childhood days playing alone with his toys, watching TV, and writing stories. Right at that moment, he knew he had an eye for films and a heart for storytelling.

Back in 2019, he started his career on the screen when offered a job in his hometown Sagay City as a writer for the City Information Office. When he got accepted, he joined training workshops from Negros Museum and National Commission on Culture and Arts to refresh his mind and have new ideas in arts, especially in theatre and production. Straightaway, he decided to pursue

what he really wanted to do— directing films.

“Didto ko nakita nga there’s a bigger space for me in the local film industry,” Garcia shared.

He was initially hesitant to do films, but he learned to love it through time by listening to directors, reading stories and scripts. He started making films when he was in their film production class back in 2014, where he was mentored by Elvert Bañares, an award-winning Ilonggo independent filmmaker. The ideas and creative juices were floating as he was yet to produce his first-ever film.

But right after college, he worked as a journalist for a local and national

newspaper. He became a business reporter for the Visayan Daily star and a correspondent for the Manila Bulletin. In his two good years, he was able to write an investigative report in partnership with the Philippine Press Institute about quarrying in Negros, which he presented in PICC, Manila.

Years after, his dream finally turned into a reality, having his first-ever locally produced film— “Buding, Ang Babayi Nga Naglutaw”. A story about the three individuals who reported to a police station and claimed to have seen Buding, a woman by the sea, floating on her bed.

This short film shot at the coastal areas of Sagay City made waves from local and regional scenes to national and international film festivals.

THE LOCAL FILM INDUSTRY

However, just like other provinces and regions, Mark shared that it was not a walk in the park to put out a film as he faced the hurdles of doing movies like looking for producers to finance the films. But after all, he said it was worth it as it opened many doors for him in the industry.

“Grabe akon nga anxiety sang nag-decide ko mag-ubra sang akon film.

People came to me, ginpabasa ko sa ila ang script and they liked it. We started with zero budget gid nga na-mount namon ang film. It turns out well nga damo siya nakadtuan nga film festival…

This is what I am made to do gali after everything I have went through.”

Homegrown writers and directors here have the platform to showcase their creativity in various film fests on the island and the Western Visayas Region supported by the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP).

Sine Negrense: Negros Island Film Festival is one of the few film festivals here that hopes to bring out a new generation of filmmakers and enthusiasts, as well as cultivate an informed public on the importance of Cinema and Storytelling in the context of National Identity, Culture and Heritage. However, Mark hopes local funders would consider the industry here on the island as a profitable business.

STORYTELLING AS A MISSION

Before venturing out into the film industry, Mark as a journalist has met many people coming from different

walks of life with different stories to tell. From the plights of farmers and fisherfolks to the success of businessmen and government officials, he has crossed roads with them and talked about many things. This inspired him to do better in his craft.

“I find it as a mission on my part that I want my audience to think about my film, to move and make them to act on something else… as well as a responsibility sa tanan nga like this is my art, it’s more than the entertainment value itself but I am also telling this and that...

At the end of the day, we are all filmmakers who try to create stories that could open the eyes of the audience, more than the laugh and hibi sa sinihan may mapuli sila [nga realization and lessons].”

Mark also underscores that there are a lot of stories to tell more than what is seen on TV and mainstream movies. He believes that the province and the region are a hive of stories buzzing to be told.

“Kadamo pa sang gakalatabo sa Pilipinas nga kinahanglan i-tell, nga kinahanglan pa fixing.

I see it as a responsibility to help the country, contribute to tell those stories.”

Now, carrying out his mission, his latest film “The New Faces (of Dreams and Mysteries)” is one of the four films, including Lav Diaz’s “Himala: A Dialectic of Our Times”, from the Philippines to compete in the prestigious Southeast Asian Short Film Competition at the 32nd Singapore International Film Festival. This film was produced amidst the restrictions during quarantine season, featuring the community in Sagay City, proving that not even a pandemic can put a passionate heart into a halt.

“Both journalism and creative writing give you the opportunity to really observe people, to really listen to people. That’s how I do things, especially the stories I do for films. I really apply the art of asking questions, of listening and observing people just to write

something,” Mark shared.

Now, the set is even more ready for the stories he wants to be told. As Mark journeys for more narratives around the province and the region, he hopes to showcase how these affect us as Negrenses, one story at a time.

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DEVCOM

Agrikulturang Kinagisnan, Pinagyayabong ng Kabataang Myrianne words by MDPN. MARK JOHN PRIOLO & MDPN. RENGIL MANA-AY photo by MDPN. BAB CHRISTIAN SANCHEZ

Agrikultura ang bumubuhay sa isang bansa.

Upang maituring na matagumpay ang isang bayan kailangan nitong matugunan ang mga pangunhing pangangailangan ng mga mamamamayan at isa na rito ang pagkain. Ngunit sa panahon ngayon, maituturing paba ang Agrikultura bilang isa sa mga pangunahing hangad ng mga kabataan?

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a panahon ngayon ng social media, bihira na lamang ang mga kabataang may hilig sa pagsasaka. Sa patuloy na pagsibol ng teknolohiya, naitalang mas bumababa ang mga bilang ng mga kabataang Pilipinong interesado sa sektor ng agrikultura. Ngunit para sa isang grupo ng kabataan sa bayan ng Manapla, kasing tirik ng araw ang alab ng kanilang puso para sa pagsasaka.

Habang ang iba ay abalang naglalaro ng mga online games at nag-iiscroll sa samut-saring apps, ang mga kabataan sa Hda. Myrianne ay nanatiling masaya at ganado sa pagtanim sa gitna ng init sa sakahan. “Kung sa iban mayara kung kis-a ng bata ya nga tinir ang mata sa cellphone, may ara man kung diin galagaw, gapanahor. Kay sa ila ya amo na ila kalipayan. Te kay samon ya, samtang bata pa kami na tun-an na namon ang pagpanguma, amo na ang hobby namon, dira na lang sa uma. Kag amo na amon nga kalipayan,” masigasig na ibinahagi ni Jison De la Cruz, Presidente ng Myrianne Youth Farmers Organization.

Ang Myrianne Youth Farmers Organization (MYFO) ay isang grupo ng kabataan sa Brgy. San Pablo, Manapla na naniniwalang muling mapupukaw ang interes ng mga kabataan sa agrikultura.

Nagsimula noong Disyembre 2017, ang mga kabataan sa Myrianne ay kanilang tinipon at sinimulang hikayatin sa pagsasaka sa tulong ng Myrianne Farmer’s Development Association (MFDA).

Nagsimula sa paunti-unting pagtatanim sa hanggang sa ang mga kabataan na mismo ang nagkaroon ng sakahan at nagpasimula ng kanila ring pagsasaka.

Sa tulong ng Manapla Agriculture Office (MAO) sa pamamagitan ni Municipal Agriculturist Alejandro Malijoc at 4-H Club coordinator Joseph Lobado, nagkaroon ng opisyal na ugnayan ang MYFO at DA taong 2018. Naipabilang ang kanilang sakahan sa “Abanse Negrense Farm Youth Vegetable Gardens and High-Value Crops Farm Areas” sa probinsya.

Sa murang edad alam na ng kabataang Myrianne ang kahalagahan ng sektor ng agrikultura. Kung kaya’y nilalayon nilang mas paunlarin pa ang lupang kanilang sinasaka.

Nakabilad man sa ilalim ng araw, ang mga kabataan ay hindi sumuko at patuloy na lumalaban. Marahil sa kanilang isip ay para lamang itong isang laro na kung saan lupa at buto ang kanilang laruan at ang pag-ani ng mga gulay ang kanilang itinuturing na premyo. Mahirap

man ay nalalampasan pa rin nila ang hamon sa pag-sasaka. Nalampasan nila ito sa pamamagitan ng pagtutulungan sa lahat ng mga gawain sa sakahan.

Kuwento ni Jison, “Since naka[patubo] kami sang panimuot, panguma na ang lifestyle namon. Since bukid naman di ang sa amon, gin-[adapt] na lang namon ang panguma. Syempre kay dira na kami gakuha sang amon mga kinahanglanon, mga kinahanglanon sa matag-adlaw. Amo na nga samtang bata pa sila gina-[encourage] na sila sa panguma.”

Bago pa nagpandemya, aktibo na silang nagtatrabaho rito. Ayon sa kanila, tuwing Sabado at Linggo

sila ngayon katulad kamatis, sitaw, pechay, talong, labanos, kalabasa, sili, at pinya na ibinebenta nila sa kanilang lugar tuwing anihan. Mayroon din silang egg laying machine, mga darag (native chicken) na makikita sa paligid ng sakahan, kabir na manok, at isang mailap na native pig. Ang mga ito at iba pang mga gardening tools at farm inputs ay galing sa MAO at Provincial Government ng Negros Occidental.

Hindi lamang pagsasaka ang kanilang natutunan kundi kung papaano rin ang tamang pagbabadyet ng kanilang pera tuwing sila ay may kita.

Ang kalahating kita mula mula rito ay napupunta operational expenses ng or-

lang noon sila nakakapagtrabaho sa sakahan. Ngunit kung wala silang pasok, minamabuti nilang mag-ubos ng oras sa sakahan kay sa maglakwatsa.

At nung magsimula ang pandemya, kanilang binabalanse ang pagsasagot sa module at pagtatrabaho sa sakahan.

Sa katunayan, sinisikap nilang maging agri-tourism spot ang kanilang lugar sa tulong ng MAO at MFDA.

Ngayon, may iba’t-ibang pananim

ganisasyon habang ang kalahati naman ay ginagawang dibidendo. “Take good care of the farm, and the profit as well.

Make sure that all members of the organization know where the revenue goes,” ani Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson. Dagdag pa niya, “It is good that at an early age, they already know farm operation con-

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cepts like dividend sharing, among others.”

Bagamat hindi pa sila handa na harapin ang lahat ng mga pagsubok na napapaloob sa sektor, nandiyan ang kanilang mother organization, DA, at 4H upang gumabay sa kanila. “Sila naga tudlo samon, naga-guide kung ano ang mga dugang pa nga ulubrahon kung ano pa gid ang mga kinglan nga hilimuon,” wika ni Jison.

Kasama ang MFDA, makabebenipisyo rin ang MYFO sa ipinatayong Solar Irrigation Project ng probinsya sa pamamagitan ng Office of the Provinical Agriculturist, na nagkakahalagang P6.9 M. Ang proyektong ito ay tinatayang makapagpapatubig ng 30 hanggang 50 hektarya. Nagsimula ang pagtatayo nito Setyembre 2020 at nasa 90% na para makompleto ito.

Sa pamamagitan ng kanilang aktibong partisipasyon sa MAFO ang kanilang organisayon ay nakapaloob na ng iba’t ibang pagkilala at parangal. Kabilang na rito ang Most Outstanding Young Farmers Group (Provincial Level) at Best in Innovative Technology. Ang pag kilala at mga parangal na ito ay sumasalamin kung gano ka pursigido ang mga kabataan sa Agrikultura. Dahil dito, lalo pang paiigtingin ng lokal na gobyerno ang suporta para maisakatuparan ang hangaring gawing agri-tourism site ang lugar.

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“Kami ang provider sang technology, farm inputs, kag iban nga mga kinahanglanon nga mangin part kag component sang agri-tourism namon. At the same time ang plano namon nga sila ang mangin tour-guide kung ma-establish na ang bilog nga agri-tourism site.” ani Alejandro Malijoc, Municipal Agriculturist. Dagdag pa niya, karapatdapat na suportahan ang organisasyon dahil napaka-”cooperative” at “enthusiastic” ang mga miyembro nito.

Kasing liwanag ng araw ang kinabukasan ng pagsasaka at sektor ng agrikultura sa mga kamay ng mga kabataang tulad ng Myrianne Youth. Halos lahat sa kanila ay nangangarap na maging ganap na agriculturist, habang ang iba naman ay guro at engineer na nangangakong patuloy pa ring tutulong sa pagpapaunlad ng kanilang sakahan sa.

Sa gitna man ng pagyabong ng iba’t ibang teknolohiya, hangad din nga grupo na mas marami pang kabataan ang makilahok sa sektor ng agrikultura. Dahil para sa kanila, ang agrikultura ang pinakaimportanteng bagay sa buhay ng tao: “Kung wala ang agrikultura, ano ang kakainin ng mga tao?”

DIRI SA AMON

Surfing at the Jewel of the Sugar Island photo by NELE STEPHEN PACURIB

A few minute drive from the Sipalay City Public Market, Panaon Outdoor Shack offers surfing lessons. Usually during the Habagat seasons characterized by humid weather which produces huge waves, this spot is perfect for water recreation activities such as surfing.

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HOW-TO

Travelling in the New Normal words by MDPN. JERRIC CLARIDAD graphic art by EMMY NAVA

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ears passed due to a catastrophic pandemic that swept the globe, showing no signs of slowing down. The worldwide economy is in shambles, industries have ceased operations, and the way we travel has fundamentally altered. While the Philippines and the rest of the world are still dealing with the fallout from the pandemic’s tragic outcomes, the exploration for a vaccine and cure continues.

Following the global COVID-19 pandemic, which has impacted countries and businesses across the board, we are being encouraged to learn, live, and adapt to the new normal.

The new normal requires all of us

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to manage our health much more critically, emphasizing health and cleanliness and holding ourselves and others accountable. Nevertheless, the pandemic taught us the significance of looking after ourselves, our homes, and communities.

Here are things you can be sure to expect: THE NEW NORMAL TRANSPORTATION

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATFEID) issued Guidelines for Public Transport Operations covering Avia-

tion, Maritime, Road Transport, and Railways Sector.

Strict health and sanitation regulations must be followed, prioritizing decreased passenger capacity, minimizing touchpoints, social distancing, thorough handwashing, and the use of protective gear such as face masks, face shields, and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Across all modes of public transportation, a no face mask and no face shield, no ride policy was implemented. As required by DOTr, this comprises roads, railways, maritime, and aviation. This still remains in effect as the pandemic continues to wrath the country.

AIRLINES IN THE NEW NORMAL

Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia are among the country’s airline carriers that have begun to implement enhanced safety and disinfection measures in order to fulfill the DOTr and IATF-EID criteria.

To ensure the highest safety of all passengers, staff training, in-flight protocols, and disinfection measures have been established.

Every traveler is liable for being well-informed about the essential boarding passes as well as the most up-to-date status of their journey. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has established an upto-date Interactive COVID-19 Travel Restrictions Map to inform travelers on the current status and travel restrictions of the countries they plan to visit:

Temperature checks, use of foot baths, and disinfection/sanitation facilities. Physical and Social Distancing, and minimum contact at all times within the airport premises and inside shuttle buses. Seat Distancing shall be observed in flight depending on space availability. Family members and individuals travelling together as part of the same household may still choose to be seated together. Mandatory public safety announcements before closing of doors and during flight for cabin and health security protocols. Regular sanitation and disinfection of airline facilities and equipment, and in coordination with the airport authorities, all airport facilities and equipment, including lavatories, frequently touched surfaces, wheelchairs, trolleys, countertops, etc.

MARITIME TRAVEL IN THE NEW NORMAL

Physical distance must be respected in port facilities, particularly in locations where frontline services are provided, such as passenger terminal buildings (PTBs), port integrated clearing offices, and other areas.

All disinfection facilities, including as foot baths, handwashing stations with alcohol or soap, and sanitation camps, shall be set up at all entrances to terminals, ports, ships, and other passenger vessels in order

to preserve standards of cleanliness.

Additionally, passengers will be informed about cleaning and sanitary practices via various media channels in PTBs as well as other important areas around the port facilities.

ers from areas under Alert level 1-3 Bacolod City - Accepts leisure travelers Negros Occidental - Accepts leisure travelers from areas under Aler Levels 1 and 2

ISSUANCE OF VAXCERTPH CERTIFICATION - WESTERN VISAYAS

As per Inter-Agency Task Force spokesperson Harry Roque, the Department of Information and Communications (DICT) has started issuing requests for digital COVID-19 vaccination certificate VaxCertPH for domestic use since October 29, 2021.

Following the modification of regulations for visitors with VaxCertPH by some local government agencies, the step was taken. Before, the certification was only available to foreign Filipino workers and those planning to travel abroad.

The lack of standardization in the COVID-19 vaccination cards issued by local government agencies would be addressed by VaxCertPH. It contains the owner’s personal details, vaccination brand, and lot number, as well as the date and location of immunization. It also features a QR code that may be used to match data in the Vaccination Management Information System, a focal platform that serves local governments.

As of November 16, 2021, Local Government Units are allowing Leisure Travelers with VaxCertPH Certification or Vax Card with QR Code in accordance with the Department of Tourism Region VI - Western Visayas.

For unvaccinated/partially vaccinated travelers, a negative RT-PCR result is necessary, while RT-PCR results are not required for travelers under the age of 12.

Due to the lingering uncertainty of our situation, we expect this to be an entirely new practice until things settle down. This means you will get more benefits and have more security when you travel.

Cuisine, culture, and exploration were once major factors in a traveler’s decision to visit a particular location. Heading ahead, most, if not all, individuals will be concerned about their safety. No one would want to risk that. Travelling is in our system and given the significant happenings, we would not be able to go back to the way things were; what we need is to embrace and live up to the new normal especially in the way of traveling. As we slowly go back to the way it used to, traveling with a great extent of caution would spare us from contracting the COVID-19 virus.

The following is a list of LGUs in Western Visayas that accept leisure travelers: Boracay - Accepting leisure travelers of all ages Antique - Accepts leisure travelers from Panay Island Iloilo City - Accepts leisure travelers Aklan - Accepts leisure travelers Guimaras - Accepts leisure travelers Capiz - Accepts leisure travelers from Western Visayas Iloilo - Accepts leisure travel-

LIFESTYLE

Sir Dioko’s route to a healthy life and travel As they say, “Bike is life,” but for a Lacsonian instructor, biking has become a lifestyle. words by MDPN. CARLO MIGUEL BARODI & MDPN. GERALD DIANO JR. photos by PITIKALON SKT & NIKO ALDAS

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our in the morning bike jersey is ready.

Helmet locked tight with padded cycling inside and resistant shades for the eyes, cyclists are up for a morning ride.

Cyclists or bikers have become the new rulers of the city streets. Racing atop of the highest rocky mountains, they are the travelers with seemingly unending stamina. They go where no one dares venture and reach unimaginable distances. A healthy sport and hobby that suits everybody. It is the ultimate stress remover for some and a beneficial exercise for those who value their physical health.

This pandemic has spiced up the thrill of the cycling world. Bikes and bike parts are in demand not just for the sport of many but also for those affected by the restriction of public transit. People borrow money just to own a bike for their work, while some choose it as a necessity for traveling during long and arduous trips.

As such, there are many admirable stories of persistence and eagerness encircling the world of biking. One of those fascinating tales belongs to 2/M Hendrickson Dioko. His journey of being a cyclist while being a person with a disability (PWD) is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

TO BE A LACSONIAN BIKER “Actually, after my accident, I did not engage in my sport anymore because my number one sport is martial arts. Since I met with an accident, I shifted to biking which is a very good sport.”

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2/M Dioko was involved in an accident onboard, decapitating his entire left arm. As he moved on to his new way of facing life, he invested his time mostly in the sport where his heart fell. Together with 2/M Dosa, they founded John B. Bacolod Bikers Club back in 2012.

“It really changed my life because one way is to consider it as a discipline. I would wake up early in the morning and ride my bike to Lopues East Bacolod, where our team’s meeting place was. And together, we ride up to Brgy. Alangilan, Bacolod City daily. My maximum distance traveled so far was from Bacolod City to the Municipality of Cauayan together with John B. Bacolod Bikers Club, approximately a maximum of three hours of travel.”

THE ESSENCE OF A LACSONIAN BIKER Being the founder of the Lacsonian bikers club, Sir Dioko makes sure that every member does well to carry themselves,

especially when they are out on a ride. 2/M Dioko is proud of the way Lacsonian bikers behave in other places. They are well-mannered and do not involve themselves in any unfavorable circumstances.

“Lacsonian Bikers are disciplined bikers. When we go through Iloilo, Guimaras, and so on, I can always see that the bikers do not associate themselves with any vices. They keep away from trouble,” 2/M Sir Dioko.

THE BENEFITS OF BIKING Biking created a lot of memories for 2/M Dioko’s life. It also greatly impacted his health, whereas far, he sees himself becoming more and more healthy. Last August 4, 2021, he was diagnosed with Pneumonia and was confined for 17 days.

With the threat of the virus, 2/M Dioko’s initial response was fear and trembling, but due to his robust immune system, he believed the result of his daily exercise saved him from further

danger.

“There was one patient, I wasn’t able to meet them, but the Doctor told me that the patient was much younger but unfortunately was unable to survive the same sickness as mine. The Doctors were actually surprised at how resilient my immune system was. It helped me overcome my sickness.”

Biking is more than a hobby or sport; it is a lifestyle guiding and protecting those who seek to reap its benefits.

Biking is one of the many pleasures of life that allows you to see and reach places you would have never even imagined. From one scenery to another, with friends and companions, biking is the chronicle of many stories. And each kick, stride, and distance conquered lead them further and further into the journey of their lives.

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POP CULTURE

The Big Screen: From Cinemas to Online words by MDPN. ANGELO RYAN GILTENDEZ graphic art by BEANNE JACA

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OVID-19 has affected every aspect of life and every industry known. The film industry is one of the most influential industries to compromise. With movie theaters closing on every block, jobs being cut, and no timetable for when the pandemic will end, the film industry has developed its own unique strategy for combating the pandemic and providing entertainment to audiences worldwide.

DESERTED CINEMAS

Cinemas throughout the Philippines have decided to halt operations due to the COVID-19 pandemic, beginning March 15, 2020, per the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF). Specifically, this is to adhere to the strict guidelines of social distancing by the

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IATF and the cinemas not being a part of the essential facilities needed to combat the COVID-19 virus at the beginning of the pandemic.

According to Florida State University, “Movie theaters are by nature, a high-risk environment, as they often pack hundreds of people into a small space together for extended periods of time. Additionally, it can be difficult and time-consuming to clean them, making them less than ideal for a highly contagious virus-like COVID-19.” Hence, the need to shut down cinema operations to lessen the risks of transmission of the virus.

“Closing down cinemas and other recreational public spaces was a good idea, especially in the early days of the pandemic. I imagine the case count would have been much higher than had

they been open,” said Marie*, an avid moviegoer before the COVID-19 pandemic.

With the case of closing the cinema’s doors, a massive revenue loss would be expected. According to a study “Analysis of Outbreak and Global Impacts of the COVID-19,” it was revealed that the global film industry has lost a total of seven billion U.S. dollars worldwide due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

More specifically, an article posted by the Cable News Network (CNN) Philippines wrote: “The country’s movie industry is losing ₱12 billion in box-office revenues as cinemas remain closed amid the COVID-19 pandemic.” As such, to recover from the massive revenue loss caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the film industry became flexible and adapted to the changing times.

PIVOTING TO THE NEW NORMAL

Despite the pandemic’s untimely demise, people are not one to back out and admit defeat. Our ability to adapt and innovate is the reason why we humans are able to persevere in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.

In the same way that mall shopping has evolved into online shopping, the film industry has adopted the same concept. Even though COVID-19 has made it impossible for them to make money in the theaters, they’ve elected to use online media instead.

Entertainment being delivered in this ingenious and innovative way has now been dubbed as the “New Normal” for the film industry.

The Regal Films producer, Roselle Monteverde, told Rappler through e-mail that the film industry’s primary focus will be on transitioning from cinema to online media.

“Regal has migrated and focused on digital streaming platforms such as Upstream, Netflix, Iflix, Cignal Play, Youtube, Apple iTunes, Google play, and Facebook.

Development of projects was adjusted to what suits a certain projected rate of return and limitations due to certain COVID-19 protocols mandated by government agencies,” said Monteverde.

With this, the issue with creating revenue has been resolved. Entertainment can now be offered in the safety of everyone’s homes.

“I think it’s a sign of the times.

We are transitioning to what is called ‘streaming’, which was already around, but the pandemic pretty much forced us. I would like to keep the old physical cinemas, though, because sometimes you just want to huddle in a blanket pile, and sometimes you just want to sit in a dark room with other people in seats that smell like butter,” said Marie*.

THE SURGE OF PIRATING SCHEMES

This shift from cinema to online media has brought about another problem in the film industry—Piracy.

The existence of piracy in films existed before the pandemic. However, prior to the COVID-19 outbreak, the piracy rate was low compared to the rate of piracy today.

According to MUSO, the global authority on digital piracy, revealed that global film piracy had increased by over 33% when the lockdown was set in place. In the Philippines, it was revealed by the Asia Video Industry Association’s Coalition Against Piracy (CAP) that nearly 49% of online Filipinos admit to using streaming piracy websites or torrent sites to access entertainment.

A study entitled “The Effects of Movie Piracy on Box-Office Revenue” has revealed that piracy has a significant causal effect on the box-office revenue of moviemakers. This was further proved by “The Dual Impact of Movie Piracy on Box-Office Revenue: Cannibalization and Promotion” which discussed how piracy negatively affects box-office revenue due to cannibalization, which leads those who watch pirated copies to not go to view the said movie in the proper streaming site.

Marie*, an avid moviegoer, when

asked if she was also streaming in pirated sites, answered that she does not.

Instead, she torrents.

“I don’t use streaming piracy sites; I prefer to torrent. Both of these include potential malware, but peer-to-peer file sharing has the benefit of not being bombarded with ads. I have no problem pirating media and software from massive companies, but I refuse to download content from indie developers and other small creators. People might think it’s strange for a digital pirate to draw the line at some point, but it’s there. I also don’t pirate for profit. It’s for personal consumption,” Marie* answered.

Given that the pandemic is far from over, every one of us is looking for ways to alleviate boredom. With that, it comes with a prize; either you’re willing to pay to watch streams on safe applications created by the film industry or be at risk of malware, viruses, and identity theft because of watching pirated movies from unlawful sites. We must recognize the Film Industry’s efforts in adapting to the COVID-19 pandemic. We should assimilate those measures done by the Film Industry to ourselves to mitigate the effects of the pandemic on our country’s economy.

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Don’t be a Drag, Just be a Queen

SOCIETY

LGBTQIA+ community in the Philippines goes farther into mainstream words by JEREMY JOSH ALOJADO photo collage by MDPN. CHRYSHAN NHEIL ALEJANO

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nvalidated, alienated, disgusted, and marginalized. Being a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community in the Philippines is no simple feat for anyone. We cannot deny the fact how the culture of our country is despised by the LGBTQIA+ community. People who identify themselves astray from the common norms are bound to discrimination and in certain worst-case scenarios, physical and emotional abuse which may lead to death cases.

And yet times have changed, movements, awareness and the battle for equality have progressed the society into changing the negative stigmas and misconceptions of the community one step at a time.

The country has come so far from where it started, the fight for gender equality is tough and hard and yet we have accomplished a lot. Thus, the joy of many when the news broke the internet, with the announcement of not one but two major shows that feature the Drag community in the Philippines set to go out later this year or early next year.

MAINSTREAM DRAG

Over the last decade, the drag industry has gained undeniable popularity— moving forward from something forgotten and unseen to something more widely accepted. With the prevalence of drag in modern pop culture, it is expected to enter the mainstream sooner or later.

Ru Paul’s Drag race is a hit American TV reality show which features drag queens vying to become the next drag Superstar. The show has been the kick-start to the famous drag

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industry, piercing thick ice and entering the mainstream and making drag something more seen and acceptedat least in television and social media.

In the present, the show has now started venturing out to different parts of the globe to spread and to share what drag really is and to help drag queens from other places showcase what they can do. Countries such as; UK, Canada, Holland, Thailand, and Italy, have already opened their gates to Mainstream Drag showcasing the drag queens of their respective countries.

Now, the Philippines has unveiled the great news that it has also opened its gates and is now ready to showcase Filipino drag queens in not one but two mainstream shows set to appear later this year or early next year. Which gives Filipino drag queens a platform to represent who they are and showcase the talents and beauty that they behold.

WHAT IS DRAG AND A DRAG PERSONA?

“Drag is an art form and art is subjective, it’s our way to express how we feel better, and in a more artistic way in our POV” – Veronicunt

Drag is a terminology commonly associated with the gay community wherein with the usage of makeup and art, they represent and imitate and in some cases exaggerate gender roles; Drag King (Masculine) and Drag Queen (feminine) and sexual identity. According to the National Center for Trangender Equality, the term “Drag” originates in British theatre slang in the 19th century and made its way into America’s radar in

the 1920s wherein female impersonation was considered a great form of entertainment.

As part of this theater act, many drag queens and kings create a drag persona separate from the lives they live out daily, which in some cases is very far in comparison, touching both ends of the spectrum. Considering that a drag persona is a different person, it would also look different and ask to be acknowledged through different pronouns.

Drag itself is a general umbrella, as there are a lot of different types and forms of drag, having an entire spectrum ranging from Camp (dressing far from the common norms) to comedy and to fashion. And as time passed by, society has started to open up once again to this type of art form, thus paving way for more personalities to rise. Furthermore, giving it some space to nourish and create more types and variety as the road unfolds.

In Bacolod, a few drag personalities are starting to rise to popularity.

Anthony Segovia (Yudipota Marupokpok), Kelp Ramirez (Veronicunt), and Cj (Lala) have been doing drag for a year already. They are part of a sisterhood in Negros Occidental known as Bacolod Drag queens, they continue to do drag today not only for personal reasons but also to serve as a queer representation of the community with the usage of social media platforms.

DRAG REPRESENTATION THEN AND NOW

“I remember the days, wherein the most representation of the

LGBTQIA+ community in the country is the likes of Vice Ganda, Boy Abunda and Ogie Diaz. And I would hear from my father that maybe someday I would be the next Vice Ganda,” – Veronicunt.

Kelp Ramirez aka Veronicunt shared how important the presence of these shows would serve as a standard of queer representation in the country to show evidence that drag is not something to be ashamed of. Due to these different representations, even for the minimal part achieved great help to appease him coming out as gay to his family.

“Representation is very important! Especially to young kids, so that they will not feel that they are out of place and different. And it would be beneficial for those who are doing drag or interested in doing drag, as they are usually victims of discrimination and even internal homophobia within the community. Thus, with enough representation, people would now see it as a form of power and would then give confidence for people to just be who they are.” Yudipota Marupokpok said.

DRAG AND THE SHROUD OF MISCONCEPTION

“The Philippines is not on that level yet” – Yudipota Marupokpok

Despite the effort and progress that the country has achieved, people of the said community beg to differ.

The country has indeed made certain progress, but the community itself still struggles. It is still shrouded with general misconceptions, as the public mostly shapes their opinion from the various media they come by.

A common misconception that usually shrouds over the drag community is that if someone is doing drag, they are immediately a transgender. “Doing drag does not mean the person is immediately Transgender” said Lala.

A perfect counterpart example would be the same way actors do not keep being referred to like their characters after leaving the stage. Similar to how many of the drag performers are.

“We are just as comfortable leaving our lives as a man, the same way we portray our drag persona,” Yudipota Marupokpok said, regarding the misconception.

One should not automatically assume that someone who is in drag or does drag is transgender. Just as the majority of the drag industry is not trans, most trans people do not do drag. Rather, it is their unique expression and representation of themselves and their identity. But again, drag is still a general umbrella. There are some drag queens who are trans, there are even some who are known as “AFAB” which stands for Assigned Female At Birth.

So if someone is unsure of

how to approach such fabulous persons with respect, there is always nothing wrong with getting to know them through some simple questions.

The rise of representation in mainstream media has helped alleviate some of the negative light the community faces. An improvement from before, although far from being perfect, given enough time the country may finally shake off its hideous prejudices and view the community in a better light, for now, it’s still a work in progress.

With the Philippines on its way to showcasing Drag representation through mainstream television and selected social media platforms. It is nice to acknowledge that Filipino society has started its way of accepting more of what the LGBTQ+ community has to offer. Knowing how the LGBTQ+ community has fought long and hard for gender equality in the country, it is about time that we progress into a more accepting and understanding society.

HUMAN INTEREST

THE PHENOMENON words by MDPN. ANGELO RYAN GILTENDEZ graphic art by MDPN. CHRYSHAN NHEIL ALEJANO

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s the clock turns midnight, he masquerades with the golden mask sitting on the center table. In front of his reflection, he utters, “It’s time for Midnight to appear.” He lights his room with candles— a bright maroon glow, as he wears a sheer piece of clothing, covering his groin. As the camera clicks and the shutter strikes, he follows the whims of his subscribers for the entire night.

Alter Accounts.

If you aren’t familiar with the term “alter,” it’s about time you learn.

BEHIND THE MASK

The existence of the alter community on the Internet is not necessarily a new one. For as long as the internet has existed, it’s been used as an outlet for people’s hidden indulgences. For others, it may be through hiding their imperfections from the media, altering their features to appear “more beautiful,” or even going as far as pretending as someone else.

Twitter handler, @AlterPilipinas, stated in his account that an alter is a pseudonym or second account that is used to express oneself in a discreet way without risking one’s true identity. As you can see, this is appealing to certain

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individuals for a variety of reasons.

Platforms such as Twitter, Telegram, Facebook, and Whatsapp are utilized for their transactions online. The nature of the content could range from tame to Not Safe For Work (NSFW), from videos, to images, to written contents online.

While some alters do it at a casual level, for others there is a real weight attached. Reasons can vary —from seeking validation from strangers online, to turning it into a livelihood. Transactions happen through bank transfers, digital payments —like popular platforms GCash and PayMaya —and even cold, hard cash.

OF ALL SHAPES AND SIZES

According to Statistica Research Department, the Philippines has ranked as the 12th country to have the most Twitter users online, amounting to approximately 9 million users. Along with the growing population of users online, comes the growth of subcultures— which in this case is the Alter Community.

Alters are just your run-of-the-mill person. They could be anyone —your neighbor, your colleague, or even your friends. This means, of course, that

alters could come from all walks of life.

“Personally, the majority of my content is centered on ‘Not Safe For Work,’ as it contains nudity, sexual performances, and other things including exposing my body. Most of them are only interested in the exhibitionism of sex devices, and sometimes they just let me do whatever I want,” says Bryan*, aka Midnight, as known by his followers.

Though not all alters create performances. Some alters prefer to produce content that is more on the literary side of things —though it’s still NSFW content.

“I started writing erotica at an early age —which I don’t recommend— and I’ve built a small but consistent audience for my work. Most of them are consumers who are my age, and I strictly cater only to 18+, but some individuals that are certainly younger somehow slip through my restrictions,” said one anonymous alter, known only to her readers as Ianthe.

Not all alters are creators, such that some prefer to only lurk and consume content online. This is the case for Ivan*, a 1st-year college student who spends his spare time occasionally browsing Twitter for self-indulgence.

“At first, I only created my alter

account for the sake of reading trends on Twitter. But as time went on, I started exploring more subcultures, which led me to the alter world. I’m not one to post sexual content on my account, but I only choose to view, like, and retweet explicit content that interests me.”

HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT

Some alters decide to dive into the alter world for varying reasons, and sometimes out of necessity. This is the case for Bryan*, who is an ordinary Joe by day, and moonlights as a drag queen at night.

“I’m a drag performer, and it’s expensive to look good as a drag queen.

Having said that, I’m fine with showing off my body to strangers for money because it’s not a huge deal for me.

Although I struggle at times because Twitter frequently disables my account, I am still able to find ways to get that through so that I can finance my basic needs and wants in life.”

Ianthe, on the other hand, does it entirely for fun.

“I’m a writer by profession now, and before I started my alter, I already wanted to become one. It was another way to exercise my craft, and I genuinely enjoy making this kind of content along with my job.”

Lurker, Ivan*, however, is just here for the ride.

“I don’t really plan on posting content myself. I’m just here for the ride because I mainly open the application to consume. That is the only appeal of it to me, but I appreciate the creators and I don’t think I’m above them.”

As you can see, alters come in varying shapes and sizes; it is important to eradicate misconceptions about being an alter creator for ordinary individuals.

The Jakarta Post had interviewed two alters from Twitter and took a glimpse as to why alters wade into this community. They wrote: “The Alter Community is used to seek anonymity, solace, and validation. These Twitter alters take advantage of the anonymity of the internet to become an alternative version of themselves without caring about societal mores, thus creating a safe space for adults who want to meet others and look at each other’s intimate pictures, with many hoping that it will lead to more.” People in the alter community are just the same

people who you see in your everyday life, except in this case, anyone is allowed to be whoever they want to be for as long as they aren’t hurting anyone.

ENDING THE STIGMA

Given that we live in a society that is filled with hatred, and adheres to its conservative culture and traditions, the alter community has been stigmatized to the extent where ordinary people regard it as something malevolent or wrong.

A research entitled, “Virtual Masquerade: Understanding the Role of Twitter’s Alter Community in the Social and Sexual Engagements of Men Who Have Sex with Men,” has identified the reason why anonymity became the norm of the alter community —to achieve sexual expression without necessarily endangering the social reputation of the person.

“When compared to the other Twitter subcultures, there isn’t much of a distinction between the Alter World and the others. It’s just that the alter sub appears to be contentious since we’re in the Philippines, which has a lot of conservative folks. It would be nice if people didn’t abandon me after they discovered I was an alter user, since as much as I want to respect them, I’m upset because this is my way of making money, and it’s kind of terrible to shame me when I’m not even hurting anyone around me.,” said Bryan*

Aligned with what Bryan* is saying, Ianthe followed it up by emphasizing that people shouldn’t alienate alter users just because they are consistently exposed to those kinds of content.

“People need to stop thinking of the “alter world” as some criminal underbelly. It’s not some weird and dark place. It’s a niche like any other, some people are here as casuals, and some make a business out of it. It’s not something to be ashamed of, but Filipino cul-

ture sees sex as taboo, and we have to work on turning that around as a society,” stated Ianthe.

Given that Midnight and Ianthe are both content creators, lurker, Ivan*, pointed out that the alter community is as accepting as other communities are on the Internet.

“I want ‘ordinary’ people to know that the alter world is nothing like it’s stigmatized for. People like me, use it to somehow make ourselves better because we get to see ourselves being represented and seen as somewhat attractive or sexy, unlike the ones we see on other social media sites. The Alter community is very much accepting and it just saddens me that people would like to box it as just some dirty and disgusting space on the Internet,” said Ivan*.

Given that we are currently in the midst of a pandemic, we are all on the lookout for new methods to make money, enjoy pleasure, and spend our free time doing something worth it. That being said, if anyone would want to explore the Alter world, they are welcome to do so. If they are planning to become an Alter creator, then let them be.

We’re all struggling in these current times, and the last thing you want to do is to close off any potential opportunities for anyone.

TECHNOLOGY

Cryptomania A student with unexpected encounters. Investment and financial resources can generate up to six figures. Is this anything that could become part of an organized potential profit?

words by MDPN. JERRIC CLARIDAD graphic art by MDPN. CHRYSHAN NHEIL ALEJANO “At first glance, I thought it was a total scam.”

“I have never expected to have this potential income as a student.”

M

ico Jefferson Dedase, opt to open doors as a local streamer and random content creator from Luzon who is fond of the engaging roleplaying match such as Rage Multiplayer, an alternative modification for GTA V. Furthermore, his topmost priority is a multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) and first-person shooter games. After tireless years of gameplay, he decided to pause-contemplating the rumors that he heard around the social media platforms. Thus, with lots of research and guidance from his friends, he is resolute to explore the world of cryptocurrency and binance.

“I usually stay in my seat for 8-15 hours with countless grinds of strategic gameplays to achieve such high-tier ranks. I have never been bored and tired of playing since I have my friends and guild-mates to communicate with. Furthermore, it’s my way to relieve stress and exit from the reality we are living in.

After I have heeded about Cryptocurrency, “block-chain” games, and “binancing”, this made me more intrigued, however, it was filled with doubt that it might be a total fraud.”

Crypto is based on blockchain technology, which requires the sender, recipient, and a third party to confirm and agree on each new transaction.

Think of them as you would arcade tokens or casino chips. You’ll need to exchange real currency for the cryptocurrency to access the goods and services.

Cryptocurrencies will enable people to

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interact, network, and do business with one another in ways that have never been possible before. Agreements, for example, are gradually replacing legal contracts and registrars.

Since COVID-19 has brought a financial dilemma, Jefferson thought of accessing cryptos and blockchain games. Fulfilling his requirements for the scholarship program. Axie Infinity or Axie is the worldwide play-to-earn system. A Non-Fungible Token (NFT)pokemon based which modified the blockchain tool from Bitcoin and other crypto sites and applications. In this type of game, players can actually make real money from playing the game.

“I was in a great leap of joy, hearing that I am one of the scholars in Axie. For 2 weeks of practicing and strategizing the game, I have perceived the skills and expertise upon playing. As a scholar, the manager will give their subordinates a team that includes 3 pets or Axies to play with. Additionally, I am gaining a smooth love potion (SLP) that can be converted into real cash through binancing or trading,” Jefferson said.

Confusions and doubt have been dissolved in Jefferson’s mentality. For the past 3 months that he has been enjoying playing and working, he gained over 5 digits that will be turning to 6 figures in the long run. Nevertheless, it won’t be far from receiving that kind of cash, as long as he continues to play.

“I have paid my fees for my ed-

ucation and bought a new graphics card (GPU) for my personal computer. Now, I’m confident enough financially and still have time for playing other online games. Not that I am only playing, I am playing and earning at the same time, wherein it is a mutual benefit for myself and perceives a cash flow. Indeed, I am a student unexpecting to have this potential income.”

Cryptocurrency is a new way of life. It is at the core of a generational struggle to re-architect everything from finance and the internet to modern diets. It has massive amounts of players and an infinite number of competing objectives. One of the most pressing challenges with cryptocurrency right now is the lack of regulatory stability.

Individuals usually know exactly what they really want from the feds. People are content to work late and occasionally bask in the spotlight of a meeting stage.

A worldwide movement has evolved into modern society. Thus, the massive amount of investment has its quality of return in the long run. However, initial risks from this kind of platform are certain. They may be viewed as a medium to promote the economic process in the developing world by expanding financial inclusion, improving fund transparency, and assisting individuals to overcome poverty. Nevertheless, crypto has the potential to sky-rocket in the near future.

The abandoned port, colloquially known as “Bulata Pier,” is a prominent tourist attraction in Brgy. Bulata, Cauayan, Negros Occidental. It looks out towards the famous Danjugan Island and is quickly accessible by land. It is only a few kilometers from the major road.

photo by MDPN. BAB CHRISTIAN SANCHEZ

Pantalan

DIRI SA AMON

CULTURE

What you think might not be what it is Self-diagnosis vs self-awareness words by ANGELIC FERIL photos by MDPN. BAB CHRISTIAN SANCHEZ & MDPN. VINCE DAVE DUQUILLA

“There’s no health without mental health.” - Dr. David Satcher

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ou have probably seen or heard this quote all over the internet, to the point that it may have ceased its true meaning; now a platitude. But this quote is very eye-opening to us and has drastically changed our views towards the stigma on mental health.

In the Philippines, access to mental healthcare is still out of reach, given that the stigma over mental health issues is still prevalent. In an article

by Nichole Maravilla of Cebu Doctor’s University and Myles Tan of University of St. La Salle, having the Republic Act No. 11036, or the Philippine Mental Health Act is just an act without action. Hence, access to medical and professional health is expensive and anti-poor. In addition, mental illnesses and disorders remained mere fictitious perspectives.

Discrimination towards mental disorders continues to be prevailing. Consequently, many people who are experiencing symptoms reject medical help and settle with self-diagnosis.

WHAT IS SELF-DIAGNOSIS?

According to White Swan Foundation, the process of identifying your mental illness based on your own experiences and popularized informa-

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tion about it is called self-diagnosing.

Self-diagnosis is not inherently unfavorable. It is okay to self-diagnose, but with extreme conditions. It is comforting for people experiencing symptoms to have a label for what they are going through.

You know and live with the hindrances you experience in your everyday life, hence why self-diagnosing is a step in validating yourself and your mental health.

“It’s unhealthy and could lead to psychosomatic symptoms, which eventually makes the person more anxious and could lead to serious problems. I encountered students, psych students even, who chose to diagnose and even “counsel” themselves. The things they thought were healthy coping eventually became a threat to them,” a statement from Renzyl Mae A. Betita, a psych practitioner and a college instructor at Carlos Hilado Memorial State College.

She had also stated that teenagers’ brains are not yet mature, and thus their decision-making skills are still not reliable. Moreover, they are also more vulnerable because they can be easily influenced. Some teenagers may have suicidal ideation and may also turn to self-harm, and worse, suicide. Self-diagnosing can even romanticize mental illnesses, and instead of getting real help, some choose to nurture their condition. Again, even for mental health,

early detection and early treatment are still the best.

How does social media aggrandize self-diagnosis?

UNICEF wrote an article about the impact of social media on teens’ mental health. They stated that there are risks in engaging in social media. It is no secret that social media is for continuous usage, thus manipulating one’s psychological biases. The romanticization of mental illnesses and disorders is present in social media platforms.

Hence, this is very harmful in various aspects: for our advocacy on destigmatizing mental health, for people with actual diagnoses and experiences of symptoms, for the bodies of psychology and psychiatry, and at a national state level.

How many psychology facts infographics without factual basis, posts about romanticizing mental illnesses and disorders, do you have anxiety/ depression online tests, and borderline shaming of those with unstable mental health, have you seen on social media platforms?

ROMANTICIZATION FROM FICTION

“We see nowadays films/series where characters seem to have mental health conditions or other dramas love to use disorders as their themes. Some

It can be life-threatening instead of being helpful for coping mechanisms.

Self-diagnosis that has taken to the extremes also threatens the body of medical health. Professional clinicians studied for years and are more knowledgeable and experienced than those unreliable infographics and psychology online tests. Professional medical advice is objective, something that self-diagnosis cannot be.

It is almost impossible for someone to step out of their headspace and detach themselves to their subjective point of view. Mental health is complex; many symptoms overlap each other. A medical diagnosis from a professional is unlikely to have a larger margin of error than self-diagnosis. If self-diagnosis leads to unhealthy and improper self-treatment, that is when it can be dangerous.

CONVERTING SELF-DIAGNOSIS TO SELF-AWARENESS

The power of posting about glorifying mental instability devalues the exfilms may depict it close to accurate, others may be misleading. Also, we can’t control how the audience would interpret it or even immerse themselves in it. There are also misused labels at the same time. Some emerging teens would categorize themselves as anti-social because they like Joker and find him cool. Others would say they have OCD, but in reality, they’re just basically neat.” shared Trina Grace L. Pahilanag, a Guidance Associate at JBLCF-B.

Sometimes the intention of making a masterpiece that correlates to mental health is merely for awareness and the breaking of stigmatization. However, it’s just that people tend to mislook the passages of the stories, and they end up romanticizing it. A trigger warning is a must, and age restriction should be applied.

WHY TRUST A PROFESSIONAL RATHER THAN LURK FOR ANSWERS ON THE INTERNET?

According to Dr. Todd Thatcher (2021), self-diagnosis can be dangerous.

periences of people who are living with it. It promotes the stigma on mental health, further spreading the fire of just being a way of attention-seeking and dramatics. Since social media can manipulate human psychology, it can trick human minds to create a false reality in which they are mentally unstable. If this goes on without intervention, that false reality may become a reality.

We are far from accomplishing our task of destigmatizing mental health.

But that does not mean the efforts we are exerting now are unnoticed. Now that we are aware of the benefits and dangers of self-diagnosis, we can move forward. Although self-diagnosis can be helpful to some extent, it still does not compare to a medical diagnosis.

Perhaps, what we should do is to revise the word. We should promote increased self-awareness, not self-diagnosis. Because when we have self-awareness, we are conscious that there is something wrong, then it can lead to the pursuit of medical help.

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MARITIME

The Ship of Tomorrow Introducing the world’s first Autonomous Merchant Ship wordsby MDPN. CARLO MIGUEL BARODI graphic art by EMMY NAVA

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ave you ever wondered what the future would be like? What sort of technology do you think we might possess?

Some people speculate flying cars, others spaceships that can travel light-years, maybe even a fully functioning Iron Man suit. The possibilities are near limitless, and our technology only continues to advance. But what if I tell you that you don’t need to wait, that the future is already here and ready to set sail?

With the rise of the age of technology, machines have become very sophisticated to the point where they literally no longer require human interaction to work. From drones to self-driving cars, machines are being programmed to continue to work even without a person controlling them. This is called Automation. And now, for the first time ever, we have an actual working autonomous ship.

To meet the UN sustainability goals, Norwegian Companies- YARA International and

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KONGSBERG Maritime took it among themselves to design and develop a crewless, zero-emission ship. Currently, the shipping industry is responsible for 2% to 3% of the world’s global CO2 emissions. Even though it is relatively smaller compared to other sectors, scientists project that the industry may increase to 17% by 2050. The companies have decided to generate a solution for this problem, their answerthe Yara Birkeland.

THE PIONEER The Yara Birkeland is one of the first Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) to be developed and manufactured by the companies. According to Waterborne TP Autonomous ships are “Next-generation modular control systems and communications technology will enable wireless monitoring and control functions both on and off-board. These will include advanced decision support systems to provide a capability to operate ships remotely

under semi or fully autonomous control.”

Yara is designed so that it can be remotely accessed and navigated remotely. However, the ship still needs people during her docking and cargo loading phases.

The vessel is unlike any other ship you’ve seen before, having a capacity of 120 TEU’s and fitted with an electric propulsion system running on 7-9 MWh batteries, the Yara Birkeland is the first of its kind. Along with the sleek and ergonomic features, the vessel comes with an array of sensors and an electric crane used for loading operations.

By removing all diesel-based machinery, the vessel can reduce the possible NOx and CO2 emissions throughout its transport. With such marvelous technological capacity, the Yara Birkeland is tasked with an even greater purpose given

to it by the company, that is, to be the pioneer among its fellow autonomous ships.

DESIGNING THE FUTURE The Yara Birkeland was first conceptualized way back in 2017, its final design completed on May 17th of that subsequent year. YARA International had commissioned and partnered with engineering company Marin Teknikk to create a 2.4 miniature version of the ship for initial testing purposes.

The initial tests were suc-

cessful, proving that the concept and technology were feasible.

Following its initial success, the company has committed to overseeing the completion of the vessel during the following years. By 2018 and 2019, the vessel underwent trial phases to determine its capacity.

It was supposed to have its initial voyage in 2020 but was ultimately canceled due to the pandemic. As of 2021, the vessel is more than ready to set sail and start its operation. Although no official date was given, the company has released some information regarding the vessel’s route.

location and route for the ship to safely navigate through. The ship will travel between three ports found within southern Norway. The vessel will traverse going from Herøya to Brevik, and from Brevik to Larvik, a total of 37 nautical miles.

This specific route was chosen due to most of the traffic being controlled by the Norwegian Coastal Administrations’ VTS system at Brevik. For the ship’s safety, three control stations will be handling and monitoring its condition at all

Ships yet to be released by the company. The implications it has towards the shipping industry as a whole still remains to be seen, as the IMO aims to integrate new and advancing technologies in its regulatory framework, without it having a negative impact on the industry as a whole. Even so, the possibilities brought by autonomous ships can bring a whole new generation of shipping, forging onwards to a more sustainable tomorrow.

times. These centers will be responsible for the ship’s decision support, surveillance, and overall navigation.

The success of the operation will determine the future for all Maritime Autonomous Surface

SAILING ONWARDS The completion of Yara Birkeland had prompted the companies to choose a specific

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SCIENCE

Beyond science and numbers My citizen science expedition reflections and experience in Danjugan Island. words and photos by MDPN. RUER TORCULAS

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s it possible to imagine a place where we are no longer in awe by the sight of the wonders of nature that were naturally gifted to us in the first place? This was the question replaying at the back of my mind as I loaded my bags on the van, preparing myself for a four-hour ride to catch the first light of the day on the island. As I nestled in my seat, little did I know, riding the four-wheeled vehicle will take me to the place I was wildly imagining and where I could find the answers to my question.

In the momentous morning of September 20, 18 Negrosanon explorers, includ58

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ing myself, were greeted by the swashing waters under the dining cabana, and green mountains overlooking the lagoon, setting ourselves to experience the first time being a citizen scientist on the breathtaking Danjugan Island. Located on the coast of Cauayan, south of Negros Occidental, the island is the province’s marine reserve and conservation sanctuary.

NegroSiyensya: Citizen Science Expeditions was a partnership of the Philippine

Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation Inc. (PRRCFI) and funded by Foundation for the Philippine Environment (FPE) under their program Youth for Biodiversity Conservation (#Youth4Biodiversity).

The project was week-long experiential learning focusing on citizen science exploration through different biodiversity survey experiences and observations designed to give a scope on accessing science for all people in various disciplines and sectors of our

community.

COMMONALITY OF INTENTIONS When we arrived at the island, I got to meet the other explorers from different sectors. Most of us came from various disciplines and studying courses: communications, arts, education, social sciences, maritime, etc., but these differences brought us together to serve a common purpose— learning the science of Danjugan and

returning our collected data to the Local Government Unit of Cauayan, Danjugan Island, and other communities. This is to spread the importance of conservation in the province and understand its implications to our biodiversity in mitigating the effects of the climate crisis.

Spending years of their lives devoted to the conservation and protection of Danjugan, Dave Albao, the Executive Director of PRRFCI gave me something to ponder on.

During our first session, Dave shared their spiritual journey on the island and explained the concept of connectedness to arrive at a certain point: the project. “I appreciate naton ang aton affinity and opportunity, may reason nga-a ari ka di, may connections ni siya,” Dave said.

“The island fever is going to test yourself, and what does it test? It tests your spirit. Danjugan is a very conscious place of who’s in its

space,” the island manager echoed. Reflecting on Dave’s words really hit my senses to value the island’s significance and to journey in finding meaning through our intentions and actions. “When you come into place, I really believe that the spirits of the place – the guardians, will ask you why are here?’ Where have you come? Why are you entering this space? When we enter, your heart will be asked ‘why are you here’,” Albao underlined.

MORE THAN WHAT MEETS THE EYE In the entire expedition design, we immersed ourselves in various survey experiences and observations. Through doing the activity, I felt like I was embodying the role of a scientist in fieldwork or some sort of National Geographic photographer documenting the wildlife. It heightened my respect for scientists, environmental

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defenders, and conservationists who dedicated their work to studying these species and protecting our environment.

The highlight of my exploration was on the fourth night when we encountered two coconut crabs steadying above the limestone rocks –completely unfazed. They don’t appear too often as said by the island staff, especially when they sense movement in their territory. Finding one was literally a sight to behold.

They were about as big as the coconut itself and had 8 inches claws that could break anything. Not only that, they move fast in a backward motion and slow when forward, and usually hide under the rocks.

In one of the sessions, Franz Anthony Alejano, proj-

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ect lead of NegroSiyensya and 3rd year BS Biology student in Silliman University declared his sentiment on the deteriorating climate and how it affects the ecosystem, “As someone working in science, it is a challenge for us to really give meaning to data that we get from the environment. What is this relevant to the ecosystem as a whole? We always ask ourselves gid, ‘are we still on balance?’ It is kind of a question to reflect on.”

“Biodiversity is very dependent on the health of our ecosystem. It could sustain every living organism, including us humans. Imagine the amount of knowledge that was put to waste because the earth was so degraded. It is valuable to study science since it traces back our ori-

gins but right now since science is evolving, the question is not where we came from, but where we are heading to,” Franz added.

DREAMING A BETTER FUTURE Outside the expedition activities, it was like a breath of fresh air meeting new faces, especially during this COVID-19 pandemic. Even the mundane of things add up to the whole point of a citizen science expedition – that is to reconnect again and appreciate the gift of nature in its genuine form.

NegroSiyensya gave us space to share our stories, whether our personal struggles or issues in our respective communities, to provide depth to the narrative that

we are all interconnected like our ecosystem. We got to share the same vision, laughter, joy, excitement, and sadness, which speaks of youth’s communal spirit in dreaming of a kind place where resources are abundant and enough to suffice our needs.

“Our future is not handed down to us, but it is something we build. The future will shape through our collective actions,” said Maria Jaya Ariola, the secretariat of NegroSiyensya, during her session as she optimistically hopes for a brighter future for our generation and the generations to come. “We are already scientists. We need to be a scientist again,” Jaya stressed.

With democratizing

science like this project, NegroSiyensya grounds confidence and faith for people to bring back their love and aspiration to make our place as beautiful as Danjugan Island. The protection of these biodiversities is a continuous effort of advocates, non-government organizations, and also the youth in the Negros Occidental who have been endlessly fighting and initiating projects to forward the cause. Being part of it reminded me that I’m one with these people reclaiming our stories to dream and hope for a better future.

As I unpack my bags, I am now back in the bustling city. I’m looking at my nearly full storage photo gallery while reminiscing the question I had on my way to Danjugan Island on the first day. Is it possible? Maybe. As long as we allow people to have access to education and science, and there are still people safeguarding the treasures of nature, the future is still hopeful. Maybe someday we’ll see Danjugan in every place, but for now, I will still be in awe of that one-of-kind expedition experience.

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SEA EXPERIENCE

Defying the Seven Seas: A Cadet’s Journey amidst the Pandemic words and photos by D/C JOSHUA MALAPITAN

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very triumph starts with a dream. Most of us would say that pursuing our passion gives us a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment. But for me, I wanted to wander the depths beyond the parameters I’ve set for myself, something I know would challenge my capabilities but will certainly hone me holistically. And that led me to the maritime industry.

It was a huge leap when I decided to take up a maritime course.

While in the midst of learning the profession, I thought my dream was slowly falling apart, knowing how hard it is to find a shipping company that would sponsor my cadetship. There were times when self-doubts, rejections, and disappointments tried to get in the way of achieving the crest of my own wave. But giving up is not my option; I continued to transpire until blessing came at the most unforeseen time. That sense of hope once again radiated amongst us when the Pacific Basin opened its doors.

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The end of the tunnel was in sight until COVID-19 struck. The processing of documents and training became more complicated when travel bans, border restrictions, and health protocols were implemented due to the exponential spread and threat of the pandemic.

Nonetheless, today is something I prayed for yesterday. It was on the 26th of December 2020 when I officially embarked as Deck Cadet. It felt surreal that I was beginning to explore the endless horizon of Poseidon’s kingdom. That excitement, curiosity, and eagerness to conquer the seven seas were all over me when I first saw the ship (M/V Osaka Bay), which will become my home for the next 10 months. This journey has given me the most first times in my existence— from de-rusting, cleaning cargo hold bilges, changing of crane cables, seeing gigantic waves, to visiting other countries, and many more. Witnessing different sides of the world is just a bonus for all the things I’ve worked for years just to get to this point.

Serving on board the ship for almost a year has taught me one of the greatest lessons life could offer – the virtue of patience. For months I’ve dealt with people from different places with different philosophies and principles in life, and patience is something that I think everyone should always bring with them. But I never thought I would enjoy my first cadetship as much as I do right now knowing that I am able to learn as well as share experiences with some of the best people I met on board. Being surrounded by people with the same vision as mine has driven me to push

further and endure life’s adversities with ease.

To all future cadets and those who aspire to be one, if you feel anxious and unready to unfold a new chapter onboard, there are a few things you should remember based on what I have experienced. First, be improving and teachable always. We are expected to become future officers, and sometimes we might feel pressured. However, things will only be complicated if we let our fears and emotions take over our will to succeed.

Also, do not hesitate to ask questions whenever in doubt. Our seniors will understand that we are still in the stage of familiarizing life and working onboard, and clarifying something is a safe working practice.

On the other hand, achieving greater heights is nothing without their challenges. I know that this career is tough, but the moment I experienced life itself first-hand, I realized and pondered that the complexity of the work environment is made only for those who are willing to commit and sacrifice. But the fact that I have people waiting for me to come home keeps me on track.

In life, we sometimes need to explore the wonders outside the comforts we’ve limited ourselves with and that we might find an answer to our own question. It’s valid to feel tired, weary, and unproductive at times, for our capabilities are not made to the same extent. We all have our time and place to live our dreams, and rushing won’t make things easier. For as long as there is progress, that means we are moving towards something.

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reviews FILM

Bo Burnham: Inside 2021 Director: Bo Burnham Producer: Josh Senior

by CARLO MIGUEL BARODI

Bo Burnham is back! After a long period of silence, the comedian/music genius has released a new special on Netflix.

Being away from the spotlight since 2015 due to him having constant panic attacks, the entertainer decided he would go back on stage during late 2019 but was unable to due to the rise of the pandemic. Having been stuck indoors for 5 years now, Bo decided to film his experience letting us know how he felt during the entire process. And thus the special ‘INSIDE’ came to be. Fans quickly gathered expecting the special to be like his previous works.

What they got, however, was something much more.

Despite it being advertised by Netflix as a comedy, the special itself is anything but- instead, it feels more like a personal diary, made to be hilarious at times to mask deeper issues. With songs and commentaries that go past the borders of humor and dig into a deeper understanding, the whole special feels like layers on top

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of layers, slowly being peeled as we watch and gradually come to the realization of what Bo actually wants us to see. From the endless symbolism scattered here and there to the visual representations and metaphors used, the whole special is nothing short of a masterpiece.

At first glance it may feel like the special was made at the last minute, with some scenes coming to an abrupt halt, others seemingly being roughly cut, and even the whole space is littered with equipment and cameras give the special an almost amateurish feel. However this is all intentional, as Bo in the beginning himself tells the audience that the special will have a more direct and rigid type of approach, this approach not only makes the whole special feel different but also helps emphasize the mood and theme displayed throughout its entirety.

And speaking of themes, inside doesn’t stick with one particular theme, instead, a whole collage of themes is featured in the special. From obvious themes such as isolation, depression, and loneliness to much more subtle themes such as perfectionism, socio-Economic views, and even capitalism, can be picked up from Bo’s performance in the special.

But the most persistent theme throughout

the whole special would be his portrayal of the Internet. With it being often referenced, discussed, or shown in some way in almost every single song in the special.

This is because Bo alludes to the audience that our lives have become VERY dependent on the Internet. In Burnham’s own words;

“All human interaction, whether it be social, political, spiritual, sexual, or interpersonal should be contained in the much more safe, much more REAL interior digital space, that the outside world is merely a theatrical space in which one stages and records content for the more real, much more vital digital space.”

The sarcastic pseudo-meta commentaries he makes, combined with amazing visuals and performance, as well as his timing and humor, are really what make the special stand out. In the end, it is up to the viewers to derive their own conclusions about how they interpret the special as a whole. One thing is for certain though, the special leaves viewers with an indescribable and sensational feeling, one that was not present before watching.

Overall, the whole special is unique and one of a kind, I highly recommend you check it out.

DOCUMENTARY

Monsters Inside: The 24 Faces of Billy Milligan 2021 Director: Olivier Megaton Producer: Sébastien Deurdilly

by JEREMY JOSH ALOJADO

It’s the year 1977, a serial rapist raping over 4 women of the Ohio State University at the same time robbing and kidnapping them. The suspect? A young adult named Billy Milligan. A one in a million case that boggled the minds of many and became a well-known historical case wherein the suspect claims to not remember that he committed any crime.

As he stated that he was sleeping mentally but not physically, with a different person in the same body taking charge.

This is the narrative of Netflix’s four-part crime docuseries; Monsters Inside: the 24 Different Faces of Billy Milligan.

Directed by Oliver Megaton, this docuseries is the newest documentary to be added to the Netflix catalog of true-crime series. Following the release of American Murder: The Family Next Door and the popular hit docuseries Crime Scene the Vanishing at the Cecil Hotel ensnared the audience concerning its peculiarity.

Netflix seems to never run off of new true-crime stories to stockpile into their platform, as it seems that there is an entire wing reserved for it. The newest addition

explores the rare case of Billy Milligan, who is diagnosed to have Multi-personality disorder or also known as DID or Dissociative Identity Disorder. To say it plainly, there are 24 fragmented personalities within one body. The series throws the discussion back and forth, seeking to answer the question if indeed he has the said disorder. Feeling way too surreal, it’s as if something out of a movie or a comic book, and yet that is the claim of the suspect with Psychiatrists to back up the diagnosis.

As the documentary continued to dig deeper to reach the answer, we got to know some of “the multiples” to surface in Billy’s body. Arthur was an empathetic British who seemed to be the spokesperson throughout the interview. Anger takes form in a personality named Regan with a heavy Yugoslavian accent. And one of the major standouts among the multiples, Adalana, a lesbian who seems to have ulterior motives and unethical desires.

Despite the evident differences among the personalities, many still doubt the reliability of the diagnosis and the situation itself.

Is it true, or is it just a clever way to get away with a crime? If so, he should be then awarded as one of the best actors known- jokingly said one of the persecutors in the docuseries.

As the series progresses through the couple following episodes, we get a gist of the past of Billy Milligan. With testimonies from close friends and family who strongly claim that the Billy that they

know would not be able to do the crimes charged against him. And yet ironically it is not what most of the families of those who are found guilty say? We then get a glimpse of Billy’s horrific childhood, filled with almost every undesirable thing known to humankind. This gives the audience a focal point to a possible cause for the birth of Billy’s multiple personalities.

Despite being surreal and nearly impossible, DID is a real mental disorder that a small group of people around the globe suffer from. This case shows a major intersection of crime and psychology and psychiatry. “It’s way too fantastic to be real,” and yet it’s not, this docuseries also digs deep in each one of us on the question of how deep do you know yourself? Do you sometimes do things and not know you did them? Do you seem to realize the clock has wound over, and you did not know where all that time went? (probably way too focused in front of your device’s screen and even forget eating and alike). Despite the series trying so hard to be a horror movie, in which it failed miserably, it’s a pivotal turn to the different documentaries produced by the platform, incorporating a one in a million case that converges crime and psychology. However, a careful note for those who would indulge and watch this docuseries— it’s recommended to watch together with someone, as in any cliché docuseries, there is too much space and not enough substance. Having someone with you will get you through the series with speculation and discussion.

A fascinating, horribly compelling story, stretched in typical Netflix fashion, over four hours. Indeed it will ensnare your attention and will get your mind digging through conspiracy and theory and your take on the docuseries. Nostalgia served on a silver platter, the docuseries’ aesthetic gives off the 1970s vibe, full of static and nostalgic qualities in the filmmaking process and screenplay. Despite having its faults, it is worth a watch and would get you thinking and talking about it till the following days.

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