E-Newsletter Volume 3 No. 1 | August - November 2020

“For stories, we sail.

For truth, we deliver.”

TheCarrier

VOLU M E 3 N O. 1 AU G UST - NOV E M B E R 2 0 2 0

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

Negrosanons oppose ‘alleged’ black sand mining

A CALL FOR ACTION. A community leader speaks in front of a group of environmentalists about the impacts of the ‘alleged’ black sand mining in their area.

KRISHNA ARIOLA

BY RENGIL MANA-AY & PAUL IVAN QUEZON

BACOLOD CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL— Several Negros-based youth organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and concerned sectors expressed their opposition to the alleged black sand mining plan under the guise of dredging, declogging, and desiltation in the resource-rich coastlines of the province.

In a joint statement, 31 groups, through Negros Environmental Watch, took a stand with the fisherfolks and communities that will be highly affected by this “environmentallydestructive project” in their opposition to suck out black sand in the coastlines and deplete the bounty marine resource of the province.

A wolf in sheep’s clothing

“It disguises itself as a solution when it is in fact a destructive, unsustainable, and unjust effort to abuse Negros’ rich resource,” the groups pointed out.

The E.B. Magalona Small Fisherfolks Alliance (EBMASFA) has also said that as affected coastal communities, they were never informed nor consulted on this important matter.

“Ang mga maapektuhan, wala nila ginpatambong sa public hearing. Para sa akon, indi na ya legal kag intsakto,” said Aliza Azucena (not her real name).

“We urge the local government of E.B. Magalona through Mayor Marvin Malacon, the province of Negros Occidental, and the four national agencies who spearheaded this project (DENR, DILG, DPWH, and DOTr), to scrap this project funded by private corporations and seek scientific, sustainable, and pro-people solutions to the alleged issue of “flooding” in the area which they used as a justification for the dredging, or the mining of black sand,” the groups emphasized in the statement.

A threat to a multi-billion industry Furthermore, the Green Alert Negros (GAN) raised their apprehensions that this project will negatively impact the local blue swimming crab multi-billion industry,

including the threat to its existence.

“We reiterate that the extraction of minerals such as sand, gravel, and black sand-magnetite will negatively affect marine biodiversity in general,” Elmeer Meeynard Calimpos, its coordinator highlighted.

According to the data from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, the Metro Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry earlier said that it is considered as the fourth biggest processed seafood products for export in the country with revenue that reached 8 billion in 2016.

The group recalled that in March this year, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) granted the First Terradev Corp. and Geo Alto Mineral Inc. their Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) to operate the dredging, declogging, and desiltation project to reduce the risk of flooding.

An answer to the flooding problem

It can be recalled that the First Terradev Corp. President and Chief Executive Officer BLACK SAND MINING read on page 2

news

features

laragway

Online benefit concert for children, teachers of Neg Occ

A voice that will echo forever

The City of (hidden) Smiles

read on page 09

read on page 10

read on page 03

editorial

P389 million alternatives read on page 04

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02 news TheCarrier

VOLUM E 3 NO.1 AUGUST - NOV E M BE R 2020

BaC-Trac aids city contact tracing system

BY GABRIEL BUARON

BACOLOD CITY—As part of helping to curb the spread of the COVID-19 in the city, all residents were required to register online in the Bacolod City Covid-19 Contact Tracing system (BaC-Trac).

The registered individual will be issued a BaC-Trac card which includes the holder’s name, address, identification number, and a uniquelyassigned quick response (QR) code.

The BaC-Trac is a webbased and mobile-based app developed for efficient and expeditious contact tracing of confirmed COVID-19 positive patients in the city and, consequently, allows the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Task Force to easily locate people suspected of having contact with infected patients.

To register, one can visit www.bacolodcity.gov.ph and access the BaC-Trac page.

“It’s very simple. It’s free for everyone. It is also accessible. Once you are registered, a QR code will be generated for you. You can have it printed out and then keep it in your wallet,” Bacolod City Councilor Em Ang said.

The cards will be used to sign in to a digital logbook,

through scanning the QR code, upon entry into government premises or private establishments such as malls to record the date and time of visit.

City Ordinance No. 941, or the “COVID-19 Contact Tracing System Ordinance of Bacolod City”, authored by Councilor Lady Gles Pallen, president of the Liga ng mga Barangay, covers all business establishments, government offices, residents and visitors within the territorial jurisdiction of Bacolod City, including public utilities and spaces, such as but not limited to, public markets, public terminals, and public transport.

Failure to register within the prescribed period will be penalized in accordance with Section 13 of the ordinance.

Penalties ranging from P1,000, P2,500, and P5,000 and/ or imprisonment for not more than six months for the first, second, third, and succeeding offenses, respectively, await private establishments and government offices that fail to comply.

Meanwhile, individuals who are not residents of Bacolod and may have temporary personal or business transactions in the city, or who may have to report for work daily will be issued a BaC-Trac visitor’s card.

SEAMLESS. The Bacolod City government contract tracing system with a QR scanner for smooth transactions and intensified contact tracing against PAUL IVAN QUEZON COVID-19.

SITE VISIT. Some of members of Negros Environmental Watch composed of various groups visit one of the coastal communities in E.B. Magalona town recently where the dredging, declogging and desiltation project is underway.

KRISHNA ARIOLA

BLACK SAND MINING from page 1

Eric Tagle said it is a publicprivate partnership where the government made the plans and will direct the project.

He said they have been in the business of dredging for almost eight years and have vast experience in dredging both in the Philippines and other southeast Asian countries.

“We will fully comply with government laws and regulations imposed on the project we will undertake in E.B. Magalona,” Tagle added.

E.B. Magalona Mayor Marvin Malacon, for his part, said the project is the answer to the flooding problem of the town.

Malacon said the contractor is required to pay taxes to the government.

From the income of the contractor, 40 percent goes to the province, 30 percent to the Municipal Government, and 30 percent to the affected barangays.

“We want the share of the barangays to be put in a common fund to be managed by the municipal government to ensure that its utilization is regulated and the people will benefit from it,” he underscored.

A discourse between two parties

Malacon has called the environmental groups opposing the project “ignorant of the project.”

“They keep on asking the same questions, some of which are irrelevant and nonsense.

But we need to address all their inquiries,” he said.

In an online forum, Maria Jaya Ariola, environmental advocate and Linghod Founding Member, said that they were also communicating with the DENR and the LGU of E.B. Magalona, however, there is still no action taken into effect, “They’re doing something but it’s not enough.

“It is very important for us to speak out our public objection to the abuse of resources in EB Magalona although we don’t reside there. Once it is stopped and they [corporations] will see that the people there strongly object to the environmental abuses, then they will fear disturbing the people in Negros who aren’t in favor of their destructive projects,” she urged.

Multiple studies show that black sand mining will worsen the impact of climate change-driven sea-level rise. The said effect already happened along the coastline of Gonzaga town, Cagayan province, where 100 houses are now submerged after years of black sand mining.

The Negrosanon Environmental Watch stressed that if the project will push through, parts of EB Magalona and other coastlines in Negros will also drown and face economic incapacity by negatively affecting the multi-billion blue crab industry in the area.

T H E O F F I C I A L S T U D E N T P U B L I C AT I O N O F J O H N B . L A C S O N C O L L E G E S F O U N D AT I O N ( B A C O L O D ) , I N C .

TheCarrier

news 03

VOLUME 3 NO.1 | AUGUST - NOV E M BE R 2 0 2 0

Online benefit concert for children, teachers of Neg Occ

BY RUER TORCULAS

Negrosanon Young Leaders Institute, Inc. held an online concert to raise funds for children and teachers of Don Salvador Benedicto and Calatrava alongside several Negrosanon artists last October 18.

In response to the shifting of normal classes to modular learning, NYLI together with Giving Hero, and Bakyas Community Development Center, Inc. initiated a Masskara-vibe fund-raising event entitled “Higala” to aid the teachers with essential materials in printing adequate self-learning modules and providing children with back-to-school supplies.

According to Keveen Gaitan, Executive Director of NYLI, Higala allowed to gather funds to distribute its first set of donations.

“Hopefully, there’s more assistance to schools and students in Don Salvador and Calatrava.”

Moreover, a group of entertainers in the region gathered and staged their performances through covers and originally composed songs. The online event was joined by the band AND, Himig Handog finalist Vanya Castor, Dani Dingcong, young rising artist Bea Dolloso, Mojo Nova, Project Orange, Gerhard Pagunsan, Carlos Sison, and Kalaylah Villanueva.

An art auction from several Negrosanon young artists was also held simultaneously to generate more funds.

“This event is purposely to bring more awareness especially to homegrown Negrosanon artists,” Vanya Castor said in an interview. According to her, it was the best time to help the vulnerable sectors of the Negros-

Initiation rites for freshmen pushed

BY JOHN REY URBANOZO

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the Supreme Student Government of JBLCF-B launched on October 23 the initiation rites for freshmen tagged as Juan Act Matters (JAM), this time it is online.

Juan Act Matters served as a platform to showcase Lacsonian’s different stories of kindness in their respective communities during the world crisis and these were uploaded to their social media accounts.

“JAM proves that kindness has many faces but no matter what these faces look like, behind the facade, they met in one end— to see the good, only the good, in small and big wonders of life—in grit and grace—in love and laughter,” said Franz Gabriel Baylon, President of the Supreme Student Government.

Margaux John Gealon

Labrador (JAM to others), Japeth Vicentino (JAM to others), Kurt Justine Espiritu (JAM to others), Sean Matthew Casilao (JAM to others), Arjen Castillano (JAM to Environment), Kyle Jenelle Salazar (JAM to Education), Vincent Daquipil (JAM to loved ones), Nygel Raven Tagacay (JAM to home), Kinbert Palma (JAM to Education), Sean Dave Paril (JAM to children) were named as the top 10 most inspiring stories of kindness.

“There are no such things as an act of kindness either small or big, it always matters and as long as we are existing, there’s always an opportunity for kindness,” Salazar said.

Ever since the establishment of the JBLFMU, the initiation rites for first-year Maritime and Business students were done in a series of activities such as Juan To Know challenge and semimilitary immersion.

anon community.

“It’s our turn to help them because they may be the next movers and leaders of Negros…

There are a lot of ways to do it, but through this, we are also introduced to new friends, new faces of our town, and may we continue to help one another,” Castor highlighted.

In closing the initiative, the organization accumulated a total amount of 18,000 pesos, which will be used in purchasing materials for the beneficiaries.

Gaitan expressed his gratitude to the artists who participated in the cause. “The battle is not over yet, but with all your support, it is possible.”

FULL OF JOY. Coleen Awit (upper left), Joshua Villalobos (upper right), and Vanya Castor (center), smile as the concert concluded with love and hope for the Negrosanon children RUER TORCULAS and teachers.

Ask LISA: JBLCF-B first virtual reference service

BY ALLEN TORDESILLAS

To assist the Lacsonian community’s scholastic needs, John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation - Bacolod Library launched its first virtual reference service named Ask LISA (Lacsonian Information Service Assistant) last September 21.

Ask LISA is a school-based website that provides a 24/7 one-stop site for all resources including e-books and e-journals. The students can also Ask LISA if they need help in finding books and other reading materials related to their learning modules on-the-go.

Ask LISA could be accessed through www.jblib.jblfmu.edu. ph.

“This website has been a great help for me since there are teachers who get their topics from books which are

LISA. Lacsonian Information Service Assistant (LISA) icon.

JBLCF-B LIBRARY

not available on the internet, so having virtual access to the library is definitely a way to lessen the struggle of a student like me who takes online classes,” Bernard Dela Cruz said when he was asked about his experience using the website.

The initiative was spearheaded by JBLCF-B Library staff who aim to connect, collaborate, and communicate with students amid the pandemic.

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04 opinion TheCarrier

VOLU M E 3 N O.1 AU G U ST - N OVE M BE R 2020

E D ITORI AL

P389 million alternatives

What else can 389 million pesos do?

Like the pandemic, environmental concerns are urgent matters in our country requiring an immediate solution. The Philippines is the third most vulnerable country to climate change according to the 2017 world risk report. Due to immense environmental impacts, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has a huge role to play in this scenario. And 389 million pesos from the pockets of taxpayers for the expenditure of a white sand beach project with the sole purpose of providing aesthetics is not even a step forward to mitigate these problems— it only worsens the situation. We are already a debt-ridden country facing a health and economic crisis, and proper budgeting of public money is crucial to avoid further mishaps.

Scientists from the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman Institute of Biology suggest that instead of crushed dolomite that the artificial white sand is composed of, the government should invest in rehabilitating mangroves. They said that mangrove rehabilitation is a cheaper nature-based solution that can contribute to biodiversity conservation and climate change adaptation. Mangroves have already been proven effective against storm surges and tidal waves.

This rehabilitation was already adopted by other Local Government Units (LGUs) like Iloilo City.

But instead of listening to science and logic, DENR officials resort to bashing their critics with foul and

TheCarrier EDITORIAL BOARD S.Y. 2020-2021

degrading phrases.

Funding the reforestation of balding forests around the country should be one of DENR’s top priorities if they’re aiming for rehabilitations. Data from Global Forest Watch shows that from 2002 to 2019, the Philippines lost 143,000 hectares of humid primary forest, making up 12% of its total tree cover loss in the same period.

Multiple strong typhoons have severely affected most regions and local communities in the country due to flooding, erosion, and landslide. Manila Bay’s white sand beach isn’t spared from such disasters. Large portions of the area continue to get washed

away from the shore. However, DENR officials are still defending their project saying that black sand was getting “washed in”, instead of the white sand being “washed out”.

Various sectors are already pleading for additional funds to aid urgent needs. 389 million pesos worth of funds could have been a leap for the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) plan of developing new technology, local Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) diagnostic kits, and personal protective equipment. Lawmakers are expressing concerns over

the lower allocated budget for the DOST that primarily focuses on developing COVID-19 vaccines.

Department of Education (DEpEd) Secretary Leonor Briones also says the budget could have been spent on printing of modules, now that the education shifted to distance learning. She adds that it could purchase gadgets for students who don’t have access to technology. The agriculture department could have a share with their “Young Farmers Challenge”, a program initially funded with P100 million in a bid to encourage the Filipino youth to stay or return to the agriculture sector. A bigger

E DI TO R- I N- CHI E F Paul Ivan R. Quezon

MANAGING ED ITOR Allen P. Tordesillas

NEW S EDITOR Angelo C. Pineda

S P ORTS EDI TOR Gabriel Bernardo G. Buaron

A SSO CI ATE E DI TO R

ASST. MANAGING ED ITOR Jasele Mae S. Priolo

FEAT URE EDITOR Mark John P. Priolo

FIL IP I N O EDI TOR John Rey T. Urbanozo

Rengil V. Mana-ay

T H E O F F I C I A L S T U D E N T P U B L I C AT I O N O F J O H N B . L A C S O N C O L L E G E S F O U N D AT I O N ( B A C O L O D ) , I N C .

TheCarrier

VOLUME 3 NO.1 | AUGUST - NOV E M BE R 2 0 2 0

opinion 05

The Culture of Connection CHRISTIAN OCTOSO

budget provides more opportunities to uplift to-be-farmers as the Agriculture becomes more vulnerable and given less attention in times of economic crisis. Even detained Senator Leila De Lima suggested it could feed 5.2 million hungry Filipino families, or help boost the government ’s pandemic response.

Instead of counterattacking experts, the DENR should keep their ears open. The money spent came from the pockets of Filipinos who equally share the country’s promised developments. We are all vulnerable to the current pandemic, and a white sand project is not going to solve anything. They should be more careful when planning out projects—may it be for beautification or environmental preservation, and see its relevance and impact to the country, especially now that we have far more important concerns to face.

PHOTOS AND G RA P H I C E D I TO R Chryshan Nheil F. Alejano LAYOU T AND PAGE E D I TO R Ruer G. Torculas

Politics is about connection and army General Roy Cimatu was influence; leadership is about appointed Secretary of Departchange. A good official knows ment of Environment and Natural when to be a politician and when Resources, and the list goes on for to become a leader. It all comes generals assigned to both minor down to the kind of geopolitical and major government agencies setting the official is operating. across the nation.

Now having said that, the defini On September 10, 2020, the tion of leadership and politics in Senate sub-committee on nationHammer the Philippines is almost idential defense and security, peace, cal. This misnomer has affected unification and reconciliation led Angelo C. Pineda our bureaucratic infrastructure

by Senator Richard Gordon held pinedaangelo149@gmail.com severely that even officials without its first hearing on Senate Bill No. any kind of business in politics, tirement age of 56, increasing the 1785, a bill that if passed, would such as the generals and colonels chance that we’ll be having the 9th repeal the current guidelines in the Military and the Philippine chief of staff, and not surprisingly, on military officers’ tenure and National Police are learning how almost all of the appointed during retirement. Currently, there is to become one. this administration has a history no fixed term for any military

Let us take former PNP Chief of being assigned in Davao City. officers. The President is most Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, a lowly Generals who did not have likely to choose officers with a police director of Davao City Po- the chance to become Chief of few months left before reaching lice office in 2015— a post usually staff aren’t entirely hopeless. They compulsory retirement age. This given to police officers with the are promised a fruitful civilian has developed into an effective rank of colonel— only to become career after retirement. Brigadier political tool for control over the the nation’s top cop a year later. It General Ricardo Morales, who military because the appointment was most likely that Bato was the was embroiled in a scandalous is treated as a reward for loyalty first pick for the post not because PhilHealth issue that was exposed to the commander in chief, and of his credentials, but the generals hustle because of his close This has developed into an effective to try and earn it. relationship with Giving way to a more political tool for control over the President Duterte. politicized military After his career in is inefficient military because the appointment is which the PNP, he ran for and unconstitutional treated as a reward for loyalty to the because the military senator during the 2019 elections togethsupposed to be commander in chief, and the generals isapolitical. er with his long-time fellow Christopher

It remains to be hustle to try and earn it.

Bong Go. Bato is qualseen if the Bill would ified to be a leader, but it is highly at the height of the pandemic was gather enough votes to reach the doubtful if he has any background appointed as PhilHealth’s CEO in tip of the President’s pen. It could whatsoever in the field of legis- 2019. Morales once served as CEO change the system entirely, maylation. The Senate is an entirely and president of the Armed Forces be for the better. The Philippine different warzone. It takes more and Police Mutual Benefit Associ- Military is supposed to be unique, than just guns to survive there. ation Incorporated (AFPMBAI), an for it does not swear allegiance to

The connection has become a organization providing insurance any monarch, dictator, religion, or trend not only in the PNP. plans, security, and financial any group of people. They swore Four years into Duterte’s products for uniformed personnel to defend the Constitution of the presidency, The Armed Forces of and their families. Lieutenant Republic of the Philippines. Now the Philippines already had seven General Emmanuel Salamat, after is the time for them to stand true chiefs of staff, with Lieutenant retirement, was appointed into to their duty. The military should General Gilbert Gapay as its 8th. the Metropolitan Waterworks and not allow themselves to be used as He is nearing the mandatory re- Sewerage System (MWSS). Former political tools.

PHOTO G RA PHE RS Mar y Aileen R. Labios Nele Stephen M. Pacurib Paul Andrew B. Repal M O DE RATO R Jarebeth M. Bangoy, Ph. D.

EDITORIAL POLICY. TheCarrier is published once every year as the official newsletter 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.

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06 opinion

Why the Hate?

that it is not only my faith that exists here in the world, particularly in the Philippines.

The State and Church should be separated, as declared in the Constitution. Our laws should not only be focused or biased on Christianity alone because of the mere fact that our bigEGO country is diverse. But we have Rengil V. Mana-ay to be inclusive and accepting rengil.manaay@jb.jblfmu.edu.ph enough for such a Bill. I also believe that the passage of this Recently, #PassADBNow and law does not step on our rights #SOGIEEqualityNow trends have as Christians.

Let us also stop thinking resurfaced in the online world.

The call for the passage of the that being in a same-sex relabill has been long overdue, yet it tionship is all about sex. Love is seems that people have so much the foundation of every LGBTQ misconception about the bill. relationship, just like any other Some would say that this bill is a gender. They wish for the State “wolf in a sheep’s clothing”— that to recognize that their union this is the Same-Sex Marriage in deserves the same rights and disguise. Some would insist that privileges that heterosexual this would be the doom for our couples have. Is it that hard to ‘Christian’ nation or even our give others the same rights and Christianity itself. Some would say privileges?

I hope that we can reflect that this bill tolerates immorality.

But guess what? None of these are that we will not allow any deprivation on attaining equal true. opp o r t u n i t i e s, The Sexual Equal rights for equal rights, and Orientation and Gender Identity Ex- others do not mean privileges to the pression (SOGIE) is fewer rights for you. protection free from discrimian anti-discriminaIt is not a pie. nation. We were tion bill that seeks to protect not only the LGBTQ created equal, yet we’re divided community but also cisgender by whatever reason there is, Filipinos, and fulfill the rights but we should put in mind that outlined in the 1987 Constitution, we came from the same core— particularly the equal protection love, and compassion.

Hate can be unlearned and clause. The bill recognizes the LGBTQ as equals and ensures we can put an end to oppresthat their rights are protected, sion. I hope that we stick to our like everyone else. It highlights core and continue to be kind the equal rights and protection and empathetic to everyone. for everyone in the LGBTQ Like heterosexuals, the LGBTQ community as they continue to community has the right to face SOGIE-based discrimination live a life free from hatred and in their workplace, school, and oppression. even in society per se. To simply Our rights do not end put, this does not necessarily when their rights begin. I want invalidate the rights of straight to echo what Paolo Benjamin people. Equal rights for others do of Ben&Ben said, “The fight for not mean fewer rights for you. It #SOGIEEqualityNow does not is not a pie. People opposing this take away from your rights. It law are the ones who step on the makes everyone equal. Equality is not the evil we should rights of the LGBTQ. I, myself, am a Christian. eradicate. Oppression is. HaAnd yes, I recognize the fact tred is. Discrimination is.”

VOLUM E 3 N O.1 | AU G UST - N OVE M BE R 2020

TheCarrier

Opaque transparency might be a part of the opposition.

Another publication in Iloilo who showed the same support were also threatened to have their scholarships revoked if they did not delete their post immediately.

As for us, we take it as a positive note that we weren’t called out when we also released our unity paulychrome statement.

Paul Ivan R. Quezon

Even in the most basic form— piquezon@gmail.com which is the campus press—there are still people in power oppressI have always been jealous of ing journalists. It could be in the student publications who are able form of having to omit certain to publish articles without the portions of a news peg because meddling of the school adminis- it is “against” the school or would tration and staff. For many years, be a bad image to the campus and I noticed that our publication has its administration, or it could be not been very much engaging in a direct implication of asking the school-based and societal issues, writer or the group to take down not because the student writers or remove certain posts. aren’t aware of these, but because Last year when I was asked of the limitations set by former to write a news article about an administrations. audit conducted to the whole

Unlike other schools and uni- JBLF System which encompasses versities who were able to print the three academic units and issues from their own campus, training center, I noticed that The Carrier has not been able to the draft I wrote has portions do such. One rearemoved. These son is protecting Even in the most basic are the non-conthe school’s repuformities and form—which is the tation. Second, if violations found campus press—there during the audit. ever there might be something are still people in power I believe it was c o n t r o v e r s i a l , oppressing journalists. removed from my our attention will write-up because be called. But I it is a “negative” believe this dilemma does not just statement. exist in our own campus but to a But aren’t news supposed to lot of schools as well. be good and bad? What’s the point

If I would start with the most of having to write good news recent issue with press freedom, only? As long as it is verified, it would be about the non-re- factual, and transparent, it is still newed franchise of ABS-CBN. news. There should always be a A lot of student publications, balance between them because especially known campuses in first and foremost, we are serving Western Visayas are showing the students of the school and not their support for the media giant the school itself. And the students by posting solidarity statements have the right to know what probin their publication’s Facebook lems exist in the school so that page. I have come to know that it would need redressing rather some publications were forced than blind obedience. to take down their posts by their I hope this would be the start own school administration. of exercising freedom of speech, During a webinar with expression, and press— not only some student pubs in Bacolod, a in our school but with other particular school said that their institutions around the country school admin asked them to take who are still not able to raise their down their post, reckoning they voice.

T H E O F F I C I A L S T U D E N T P U B L I C AT I O N O F J O H N B . L A C S O N C O L L E G E S F O U N D AT I O N ( B A C O L O D ) , I N C .

TheCarrier

opinion 07

VOLUME 3 NO.1 | AUGUST - NOV E M BE R 2 0 2 0

Women are not sex objects!

Society placed a standard way too high for women to meet their accumulated market value.

We are living in an era where improvements and innovations sky-rocket, yet the perception of merit and desirability for women remains taboo. Thus, becoming the root of sexual objectification.

Objectification occurs when we are being depersonalized through social means: turned into a thing or commodity, bought, and sold.

Women in the sexual realm had been fully discriminated against and seen as sex object validated by their looks accustomed by the standards of society, and their usability in sexual pleasure.

I have seen this issue stormed harshly over the internet. Unconsented leakages of malicious videos, unsolicited toxic opinions, and transgressive photos used as memes to objectify women started to draw the line between tolerable and intolerable objectification. It summons not only the attention of various fem-

Pepay

As a woman, I should not be held hostage to someone’s fragile masculinity because no one is entitled to do that.

inist groups but also made those who find it unjustifiable on the standards of morality, gone mad, and crazy.

There are fewer disputes around tolerable and intolerable objectification. Maybe it is because it is normalized. Yes, I do agree that there are certain situations where the objectification of women is legal. Especially in the world of pornography where women are instruments for sexual satisfaction, but objectifying them on legalized pornographic sites comes with consent and salary. My argument is that the

objectification of women for public consumption, especially for men, leads to compromising their security and psychological health.

It is too alarming that even my tolerance regarding this topic can no longer hold it. It is just beyond my capacity.

According to Dr. Barbara Fredrickson and Tomi-Ann Roberts, when women are treated as objects, they momentarily view their bodies from the perspective of the person objectifying them.

In turn, they become preoccupied with their physical appearance and sexual value to others; and the

Jasele Mae S. Priolo priolojasele@gmail.com

process of sexual objectification is psychologically harmful to them.

Women are not objects. She should not be indicated as “it”.

As a woman, I should not be held hostage to someone’s fragile masculinity because no one is entitled to do that. No one will ever have the power to dictate what we will be going to wear or how much skin we should show off unless it is under a certain work ethic. My ‘pekpek’ short will never be an invitation to invalidate my dignity and rights.

A woman’s value will never depend on how dark her armpit is, how unpleasing her stretch marks are, or how flawless and skinny she is. Society must know better than that. If only the world would stop treating us as mere tools designed to quench sexual thirst and desire, maybe we will no longer have the feeling of being scrutinized by just living what and who we are. After all, a tight and well-shaved vagina will never justify someone’s worth.

A dose of dolomite The apologist Harry Roque said, “I don’t buy that argument. Because you know, in the middle of a pandemic, caring for people’s mental health is also a need. I think going to places like Manila Bay that has a white beach, you cannot quantify its effect when it comes to the mental health of our people.” A statement he said, which is not even relevant, when he defended the project from critics saying that the funds could have been used for the country’s COVID-19 response.

Filipinos are begging for food and monetary assistance to survive the death lingering behind their back brought by hunger.

And it is not a dose of dolomite sand that they need right now.

What they need is the attention of the government to see what they should prioritize now that we are in the middle of an economic and health crisis. They need to realize that this artificial sand is no help to the mental health.

‘Major’ problems

Mental health problems are one of the illnesses commonly dismissed in Filipino households.

Allen P. Tordesillas monstercatcher100@gmail.com

Mental health problems are one of the illnesses commonly dismissed in Filipino households.

I believe that Filipinos should treat this issue like how they see and respond to other diseases with high fatality rates. Its effect on a person suffering from this kind of illness could be devastating which could lead to death if left untreated.

According to the Department of Health (DOH), mental health illnesses are the third most common form of morbidity for Filipinos. Even before the pandemic

began, the number of Filipinos who were diagnosed with mental illnesses was already alarming. It even rose dramatically when the country was under the Enhanced Community Quarantine for months.

Dr. Jeffrey Lieberman said that mental health problems were labeled as one of the sicknesses which were highly stigmatized around the world. He also said that everyone should seek assistance from the right people so they could get the right medication and

exercise.

Every time I face the screen of my phone and computer, the more I realize Harry Roque has been misleading people with his ignorant statements in front of the media to make the image of the different sectors of the government look good. I stand my ground that his claims about the mental health benefits of the rehabilitated part of the Manila Bay are his form of naivety. Mental health needs to be treated and be assessed by psychologists and psychiatrists.

The Filipino people have already opened their eyes to see the reality. They have seen the same way as I did. His claim does not lessen the struggle of a person who suffers the illness but could even trigger stress and anxiety in people. After all, we should always practice not to focus and get drowned by this issue. We are in the middle of a pandemic already testing our sanity.

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08 feature TheCarrier

VOLU M E 3 N O.1 AUGU ST - N OVE M BE R 2020

KamustaJuan: PFP’s initiative amid ‘new normal’

BY JASELE MAE PRIOLO

With the world being put into confinement by the threat of the COVID-19 virus, mental health issues manage to back up and augment the unprecedented effects brought by the pandemic.

The strong implementation of public health actions such as social distancing helps in battling and reducing the spread of COVID-19. Despite its essentiality, it makes people feel isolated and lonely and increases stress and anxiety for them.

“In an ironic twist, many of the strategies that are critical to ensuring our collective public health during this pandemic may put people at greater risk for mental health issues,” stated on the special issue of the journal Psychological Trauma.

Acknowledging those claims, the Peer Facilitating Program, one of JBLCF-B Guidance Services which aims to provide a realistic understanding of service through outcome-based school programs and services, and to mold Peer Facilitators’ sense of responsibility, leadership skills, and become a well-rounded individual had come up with a project called “KamustaJuan session”.

KamustaJuan’s activity can be considered as an alternative to the organization’s weekly learning session during the face-to-face classes. This project started in July when Peer Facilitators were having this “pandemic blues” and everyone longs for social and physical interactions due to the restrictions brought about by this pandemic. The organization thought of pushing this project through an online group video call.

For the past few months, this project brought a positive impact on Peer Facilitators who have

participated in this activity. It helped them adjust and adapt to the imposed “new normal”.

“Ang amo ni nga session nakabulig gid ya especially sa mga concerns sang kada isa sa amon and at the same time nakabulong man sang amon kahidlaw magstorya sa amon mga upod sa Peer and friends nga mapagwa man namon amon mga nabatyag kag maka share sang amon experiences sa kada isa during this pandemic,” Daphne Francisco said as she told her experience on how the project helps her as a Peer member.

Staying connected in these trying times is very important.

COVID-19 is not just a threat to physical health, but it also brought many challenges to the mental well-being of everyone. Mr. Raymart Valeriano, the PFP adviser, even stated that it is important to acknowledge your emotions, be brave to seek professional help, and know that you are not alone.

“We never really know the situations of the people around us, but extending care and help for anyone will be a great help, and who knows that a simple kamusta will open doors to conversations and lift a burden off to someone’s shoulder,” Mr. Valeriano added.

The organization wishes not to limit only the efficacy of their project to its members.

They are still in the process of conceptualizing how to involve all Lacsonians.

Necklace air purifiers not recommended vs COVID-19: DOH

BY RENGIL MANA-AY

As evidence suggests that the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) can be transmitted by contaminated airborne particles as well as respiratory droplets, the sales of necklace air purifiers has risen.

The Department of Health (DOH), however, said that it does not support the use of necklace air purifiers, saying that although wearing such air purifiers does not cause damage, there is still no evidence that they are successful against the virus.

“The DOH clarifies that it is NOT ENDORSING the use of necklace air purifiers that claim to kill bacteria or viruses or protect from COVID-19,” the agency said in a statement.

“While these devices do not pose any harm, the DOH currently does not recommend using these devices due to lack of evidence of efficacy.”

Moreover, the health department emphasized that wearing such air purifiers should not replace the minimum health requirements in place against COVID-19.

COVID-19 UPDATE Active Cases 27,745 Recovered 386, 955

PEER SESSION. Used to weekly learning session during face-to-face classes, the Peer Facilitators adapt to the demands of time as they shift to video conferencing set-up.

ALLEN TORDESILLAS

PIXY.ORG

“Mask wearing, handwashing, and physical distancing remain to be our best protection,” it added.

The portable air purifiers, worn like a necklace by many people, have been claimed to remove airborne pollutants that supposedly surround the head with clean air by emitting negative ions that push the pollutants away from an individual—including viruses, bacteria, and dust from the user’s personal space.

Top Regions with Total COVID cases NCR 196,415

Region III 26,816

Region IV-A 78,469

Region VII 25,383

Death 8,215

Region VI 20,393

Confirmed cases are those that tested RT-PCR positive by a DOH-RITM certified lab.

Data as of November 25, 2020.

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

T H E O F F I C I A L S T U D E N T P U B L I C AT I O N O F J O H N B . L A C S O N C O L L E G E S F O U N D AT I O N ( B A C O L O D ) , I N C .

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VOLUME 3 NO.1 | AUGUST - NOV E M BE R 2 0 2 0

feature 09

A voice that will echo forever

PHOTO COURTESY OF FRANZINE ANGELA LLADOC

BY ANGELO PINEDA

“ Sir”

“ Tatay” “Hindi dira maglabay, gatindog da si sir Jaco.”

Those are a few words that have been part of every Lacsonian’s life at school. Words that we can still say, but not to the same person again. Mr. Renato Jaco has been the Lacsonian symbol of discipline and order. Having handled generations of aspiring mariners, custom officials, chefs, and servers that excelled in their field later in their lives, he is a man no one can easily forget. Those who hold him dear describe him as noble, strict but understandable, iron-fisted but soft-hearted, persistent, and idealistic. He stands true to his duty—to uphold discipline and order in our school.

With his booming voice making students tremble, he was exactly the man for the job.

He was an advanced graduate of MS-43 and was commissioned in the army reserve command with the rank of probationary 2nd lieutenant. He started his career

in the academy as a secondary him surrounded by friends as teacher for physical education in they enjoyed their morning coffee Brgy. Singcang–Airport National together. His office was always High School where he became open, not only for troublemakers a Citizen Army Training (CAT) but also for students seeking commandant and a scoutmaster. help and guidance. He refers to Realizing the want to spend his them as if they were his own, but life in service to his country, he violators knew him differently. He joined the Negros Occidental Cus- was a man dedicated to his job, a todial Force where he spent a few person who was always in characthrilling years. He was then as- ter while on duty. signed as the ROTC commandant Being a disciplinary officer of West Negros University before in a school that is predominantly finally joining the Lacsonian com- male is not an easy task. It takes a lot of heart and munity where he was reverted It was a rare moment guts. And without bias, nor favoritto the marine when a person’s ism, he has done reserve, under personality matches his job. It was the naval reserve command and his job description—it’s a rare moment commissioned as like the profession was when a person’s ersonality a probationary crafted entirely for him. pmatches his job 2nd lieutenant, he description—it’s served as our Disciplinary officer until his passing like the profession was crafted entirely for him. on September 7, 2020.

“Mahidlawan gid namon ang His pleasant and outgoing person- ality allowed him to develop a lot pagka-joker ni sir, kag pagkastrikto of friendships. Early birds were ya kung may sala ka. Siya gid ang witnesses on how he was loved symbol ka disiplina ya (We will by his colleagues, every day as miss Mr. Jaco’s strict resolve if you they walked the school corridors did something wrong, he is a symby the cafeteria, they always saw bol of discipline),” says Oswald

Apatan, a student of JBLCF-B who experienced Mr. Jaco’s style of teaching discipline.

“Perti gid na si sir Jaco kung mag-training kami, strikto gid na ya. Pero ang akig ya waay ga dugay, pagkatapos training, migohay na kamo liwat (Mr. Jaco is very strict during our training, but his anger does not last too long. After the training, you are friends again),” another testimony from Cristian La Luna, an ROTC officer on the campus.

2020 was a year full of tragedy, and Mr. Jaco’s passing was one of them, his death was a loss for the school. He left a legacy of discipline, he was, and will always be the symbol of order. For as long as we continue to uphold the values and morals his office has imprinted into us, his memories will continue to walk the halls of our school, his legacy will never fade, and the culture of Lacsonian discipline he pioneered will continue to reach beyond the borders of our flag, and towards the wave of the seven seas.

Take a peaceful sleep, sarge!

Rest easy, until we meet again.

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10 laragway TheCarrier

VOLU M E 3 N O.1 AUG U ST - N OVE M BE R 2020

T H E O F F I C I A L S T U D E N T P U B L I C AT I O N O F J O H N B . L A C S O N C O L L E G E S F O U N D AT I O N ( B A C O L O D ) , I N C .

The City of (hidden) Smiles MARK JOHN PRIOLO MARY AILEEN LABIOS, JOEMEL PAULMITAN, NELE PACURIB & PAUL ANDREW REPAL

Empty stalls, spacious sidewalks, nearly empty jeeps, and mask-covered faces. Areas that always have been crowded are now empty spaces. The absence of Ferris wheels, carnivals, and carousels are signs that a festival is not coming. The month of October passed like any ordinary month of 2020. People from the City of Smiles have their smiles hidden behind fabrics protecting them from an imminent threat.

Masskara Festival is a long-awaited event every year. People from all over the world come to Bacolod to experience the thrill and lively performances of dancers wearing extravagant costumes and intricately designed “maskara”.

A series of events are always expected-from street dance, to pageants, live bands, mini-concerts, showrooms, and many other different shows to entertain people.

Small businesses are equally excited as they are expecting “parokyanos” to come and buy souvenirs and snacks.

Drivers are etched with excitement as a lot of passengers will come. People with special needs are also gathering, playing

instruments to gain a fortune to provide for their needs. But October 2020 is different. The festival never happened.

The lives of people continued like any other day. The lively sidewalks that were filled with cheering people are now replaced by street sweepers and pedicab drivers waiting for passengers to give them a lift. The lively roads filled with food stalls selling Bacolod’s pride “inasal” and souvenir stalls that filled the whole surrounding street of the plaza was never installed. The lives of the locals thrived as it is.

The hopeful street performer, a man with a disability, with his instrument, played his all to gather attention from passers-by. Hoping to gain some money to provide for his basic needs. The blind man continues to play and play like what he did during every Masskara Festival.

This pandemic may have taken away the physical form of Masskara Festival but the spirit and smiles of the locals are etched in the hearts of everybody. It may not happen but the memories and joy that it brought us in the past years etched a smile on our hearts.

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SPORTS VOLUME 3 NO.1 | AUGUST - N OV EM BER 2020

Espejo shines in Bahrain league debut, drops 19 pts

BY RENGIL MANA-AY

RAPPLER

Wesley So: Two-time Chess Grandmaster Champion

BY GABRIEL BUARON

Wesley So, a Filipino-American Chess Grandmaster wins his 2nd US Chess Championships title against a 12-man all-Grandmaster event on Thursday, October 29.

In the wake of drawing a peaceful game with GM Ray Robson, So’s clash with GM Hikaru Nakamura in the last round was not a remarkable game either. For 25 moves, the players rehashed their draw from the 2018 title, which was additionally played in the last round in the year GM Sam Shankland won the title.

Wesley So was known before as the Top 1 Chess player in the Philippines until he joined the United States Chess Federation winning competition after

competition in the sport. He is a three-time Filipino Chess Champion and a two-time U.S. Chess Champion in 2017 and 2020. On the March 2017 International Chess Federation (FIDE) rating list, he was ranked number two in the world and had a rating of 2822, making him the fifth-highest rated player in history.

“Winning the US Championships for the second time’s a gift at the end of a very long hard year. I know most people in the world are suffering in different ways and my prayer is that God would give you something special to help through the hard times just as He has done for me today,” said Wesley So as he shared his gratitude on his Facebook page.

“Thank you Tony Rich, Joy Bray, Maurice, Jen and Yasser, and everyone else at the St. Louis

Chess Club for all the labor you put into organizing and promoting and making these events happen.

Thank you also to Jeanne and Rex who provide these laborers for us to do. I am grateful that I’ve never had to know what US Chess would be like without them. Thank you also to the US Chess Federation. I am happy to represent an organization that values its members.

Thank you most of all to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ whom I recently committed to in Baptism.

He is always there for me and gave me a career in chess because He knew I might not do too well in other things.”

So’s victory can be regarded among some of the best performances of his career. To remain undefeated in this field is no small feat, and to win seven games is truly magnificent.

Philippine volleyball star Marck Espejo turned heads in his Bani Jamra debut as he came off the bench to score 19 points on 18 attacks and a kill block in the Isa Bin Rashid Volleyball League on November 8.

The five-time UAAP MVP was vital to his team when he entered the game in the second set, where he scored six markers to tie the match to 1-1.

But despite the spark he ignited, Espejo’s team Bani Jamra bowed down to Al Ahli in 4 sets, 13-25, 25-20, 24-26, 18-25.

Afterward, Espejo thanked those who supported him and vowed to bounce back. “Maraming salamat sa puyat at suporta.

Bawi next game (Thank you so much for staying up late and for supporting me. We’ll bounce back in the next game),” Espejo posted on Twitter.

Espejo is the first Filipino to play for the league, and it is his third stint as an import. He previously played for Oita Miyoshi Weisse Adler in Japan in May 2018, then he signed with Visakha Volleyball Club in the Thai league right after the SEA Games.

US CHAMPIONSHIP FINAL STANDINGS Wesley So

Ratings 2741

Jeffery Xiong

Ratings 2730

Ray Robson

Ratings 2605

Leinier Dominguez Perez

Ratings 2786

Sam Shankland

Ratings 2609

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