Bagong Bukas - CAMJOUR Group 1 Section A53

R A D I A T E

MISSION

T h e p u b l i c a t i o n ' R a d i a t e ' a i m s t o p r o v i d e e n l i g h t e n i n g ,

i n f l u e n t i a l , a n d p u b l i c t r u t h t o t h e m a s s e s . W i t h R a d i a t e ' s p u b l i s h e d n e w s , w e o n l y a i m t o . . .

E n l i g h t e n O t h e r s

S h a r i n g s t o r i e s f r o m d i f f e r e n t p e r s p e c t i v e s t h a t m a y b e o v e r l o o k e d i n c e r t a i n s i t u a t i o n s .

I l l u m i n a t e T r u t h

P u b l i s h i n g n e w s t h a t i s r e l i a b l e , c o r r e c t , a n d f a c tc h e c k e d t o e n s u r e t h e p u b l i c ' s r i g h t t o t r u t h .

S p r e a d N e w s

S p a r k i n g a w a r e n e s s t o i s s u e s a n d e v e n t s t h a t h o l d s

g r e a t i m p o r t a n c e t o t h e c o m m u n i t y ' s k n o w l e d g e .

THEME

The formation of youth is essential for ensuring a fruitful future not only for individual endeavors, but also for the country's developing community, The issue 'Bagong Bukas' tackles various aspects of cultivating and guiding the youth in terms of good quality education, mental health, career-building, and the youth's mentors This recognizes the youth's complex experiences and stories in today's society.

CO NT EN TS

HOW STARS ARE BORN

How are stars born? How are stars born?

When you think of the showbiz industry, more than likely, stars at the forefront of it is what first comes to mind. Like actual stars the bright, twinkling dots in the night sky—celebrities are also birthed. And not in the literal sense, but rather they are chosen to be the public’s source of entertainment due to their star-like qualities and charms.

In the Philippine entertainment sphere, aspiring talents are encouraged to start at a young age. The age range typically starts from primary school to adolescence. Take Star Magic artists Jane Oineza and Kathryn Bernardo for example. They began their acting careers at the age of 4 and 7 respectively.

With the prominence of celebrities who’ve been working in entertainment since they were children, the industry is formatted in a way that perpetuates such in hopes of continuously searching for the next big stars.

Photo courtesy of ABS-CBN News

There’s a variety of shows or show segments on TV that feature young talents, and a lot of them paved the way for the flourishing careers of well-known celebrities today. Among many, examples of these shows are: Little Miss Philippines (1987-2021), an Eat Bulaga! female child pageant; Goin’ Bulilit (2005-2019), a sketch comedy program; The Voice Kids (2014present), a singing contest; MiniMe (2014), an It’s Showtime segment; and It’s Showtime’ s latest ongoing kiddie segment Isip Bata (2023).

For decades, the Philippine entertainment industry has been supporting the rise of children into stardom. In the present, it’s a phenomenon that continues to transpire as showbiz generations come and go with the passing of time. Such a setup affects stars, established and upcoming, in different ways that can either be positive or negative.

Veterans' Takes

In interviews or vlogs, veteran celebrities have opened up on what it was like for them to work in the industry at a young age.

The most recent one that became a hot topic in media and the public is actress Liza Soberano’s controversial vlog on proclaiming the start of a new path in her life, career-wise. In the vlog, Liza briefly expressed her dissatisfaction towards being unable to make her own career decisions when she was with her previous management, which was Star Magic.

Photo courtesy of Liza Soberano on Youtube

In an interview with Boy Abunda to clarify the implications of her vlog, she talked about how she never dreamed of becoming an artista as a child. Having been in the industry at an early age, Liza was unable to experience the life of a normal kid. She said that she had to work to help her family financially essentially being the breadwinner.

[Trigger warning: Mention of suicide]

Another celebrity that shared her experience as a child star in a Boy Abunda interview is Andrea Brillantes who began acting at 7 years old. She was only 13 when she almost took her own life mainly due to financial challenges and working at a young age. In the present, Andrea shared that she suffers from anxiety and insomnia due to her body clock being thrown off by working as a child.

On the flip side of the coin, there are also stars who have willingly entered the world of entertainment on their own account.

Stars like Kathryn Bernardo and Ice Seguerra simply had a passion for what they do. When Kathryn was younger, she made an effort to balance work and play. She attempted her best to live a normal life as a kid. In contrast with Liza Soberano’s sentiments, it was Kathryn’s dream to become an actress, and her parents sacrificed a lot to help her pursue her dreams

Photo courtesy of ABS-CBN

Ice Seguerra was passionate about performing that’s why he entered showbiz through Little Miss Philippines in 1987. He looks back fondly at his time as a child star. He stated that he never had a traumatic experience working while working as a kid, so it was fun for him.

Perpetuation in the present

To gain the perspective of current aspiring stars, I talked to contestants of the ongoing singing competition on the Kapamilya Channel, The Voice Kids Philippines.

Since its first premiere on Philippine TV in 2014, it has been able to produce stars like Darren Espanto, Lyca Gairanod, JK Labajo, and Kyle Echarri among others. The show is currently on its fifth season.

Sean Matthew Drece is a 12 year old student from Batangas. The Voice Kids is not his first time entering a singing contest. His father, Ernesto “Bong” Drece Jr., said that the idea to join the show came from Sean himself.

“I was really happy [joining The Voice Kids] because I made a lot of friends and learned a lot,” said Sean.

Sean was eliminated during the first Battle Rounds of the show, but his dream to win a singing contest continues on. When he was asked about possibly joining other TV programs, he expressed his enthusiasm for singing competitions. Regarding other projects like acting, which was the path that Kyle Echarri took, he said that his passion lies in singing.

“It’s up to him if he really wants to [pursue singing]. Support is the only thing that we can provide for him. He already has the talent. Whatever he wants, we’ll be supporting him,” said Mr. Bong Drece.

Another contestant, Janicka Lorenzo, an 11 year old from Bulacan, comes from a family of singers. It was a no-brainer decision for the family to have Janicka audition for The Voice Kids.

There’s a lot of effort behind the scenes to get a child star ready for work. Julia Lorenzo, Janicka’s guardian and older sister, realized as they assisted Janicka with her journey on The Voice Kids.

“It took a lot of sacrifices like time management, sacrificing school work and workdays plus gas fuel,” explained Julia. “[It] also came to the point that we realized that being an artist is really hard.”

Photo courtesy of The Voice Kids Philippines on Youtube

Janicka was among the contestants that didn’t pass the first Battle Rounds. She is open to trying other showbiz programs, but for now she plans to prioritize her studies. In the event that Janicka tries out for other programs, her sister said that they will be supportive of her.

Being a star

Among veteran entertainers, their experiences as a young celebrity varied from one another. For some, it was a time of discontent or perhaps a difficult period in their life. For others, it was their opportunity to pursue their passions while still

Children have their reasons for entering the entertainment industry at such a young age. It could be financial reasons or simply a case of wanting to actualize their dreams of acting, singing, or dancing. Regardless of the specifics, Philippine showbiz makes use of it to create stars for the public to be entertained by.

The showbiz industry, which tolerates and encourages the continuous rise of child stars, has an obligation of taking special care on how they treat their young talents. Despite working and earning already, a kid is still a kid. They are still growing, which leads them to be the most vulnerable in the field of entertainment and media.

Like it has for ages, the birth of child stars will continue into the future of showbiz. It just needs to serve as a reminder to everyone that with great children comes great responsibility.

References

ABS-CBN Entertainment (2022, November 11) Kathryn Bernardo looks back on the challenges of being a child star ABS-CBN Entertainment https://ent abscbn com/tonightwithboyabunda/videos/kathryn-bernardo-looks-back-on-the-challenges-ofbeing-a-child-star-337478

ABS-CBN Entertainment (2023, February 22) It's Showtime launches "Isip Bata," Trends online ABS-CBN Entertainment https://ent abs-cbn com/itsshowtime/articles-news/its-showtimelaunches-isip-bata-trends-online-19092

ABS-CBN News (2023, March 10) Liza Soberano says she did not want to be an actress ABSCBN News https://news abs-cbn com/entertainment/03/10/23/liza-soberano-hindi-kopangarap-maging-artista

Bardinas, M A (2017, March 5) 13 Pinoy child and teen stars who transformed into gorgeous actresses ABS-CBN Entertainment https://ent abs-cbn com/starmagic/articlesphotos/76030417-13-pinoy-child-and-teen-stars-who-transformed-into-gorgeous-actresses12284

Liza Soberano (2023, February 26) This is Me | vlog [Video] YouTube https://youtu be/roLGm8vkIpg

Mallorca, H (2021, October 19) Andrea Brillantes looks back on suffering from mental health struggles as a child actress Philstar Life https://philstarlife com/self/572714-andreabrillantes-on-mental-health-struggles-as-a-child-actress?page=3

Tomada, N (2022, October 2) Ice seguerra on child star life: Nothing traumatic, only fond memories Philstar Life https://www philstar com/entertainment/2022/10/02/2213599/ice-

seguerra-child-star-life-nothing-traumatic-only-fond-memories

Have you ever dreamed Have you ever dreamed about studying abroad? about studying abroad?

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any students dream of pursuing international studies for any students dream of pursuing international studies for various reasons, whether for career, intention for migration or various reasons, whether for career, intention for migration or simply for the experience. Several Filipino students show strong simply for the experience. Several Filipino students show strong dedication in making their dreams a reality despite the given dedication in making their dreams a reality despite the given circumstances of the recent COVID-19 pandemic. What most circumstances of the recent COVID-19 pandemic. What most people may think acts as a hindrance, was actually the last people may think acts as a hindrance, was actually the last push for students to follow through with their international push for students to follow through with their international college applications. As the COVID-19 pandemic’s health scare college applications. As the COVID-19 pandemic’s health scare affected plenty of lives, this became a major game changer in affected plenty of lives, this became a major game changer in the quality of education students were receiving worldwide. the quality of education students were receiving worldwide. Classes had to adjust to online systems and methods of Classes had to adjust to online systems and methods of teaching utilizing online applications– making face-to-face teaching utilizing online applications– making face-to-face classes a violation of health precautions. To further understand classes a violation of health precautions. To further understand the effect of COVID-19 on Filipino students’ college the effect of COVID-19 on Filipino students’ college decisions decisions,, this article shares the this article shares the perspectives of various perspectives of various international students as they share their opinions on the international students as they share their opinions on the Philippines’ implementation of online learning, their Philippines’ implementation of online learning, their personal preferences towards international education, personal preferences towards international education, and data on previous studies regarding the matter. and data on previous studies regarding the matter.

International Filipino students studying in countries such as; International Filipino students studying in countries such as; Singapore, Australia, and the United States with a variety of Singapore, Australia, and the United States with a variety of backgrounds in the field of arts and design, business backgrounds in the field of arts and design, business management, and medical science share similar sentiments management, and medical science share similar sentiments regarding their reasons behind studying abroad beyond the regarding their reasons behind studying abroad beyond the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 pandemic.

These factors include These factors include (1) better opportunities and (1) better opportunities and appreciation for certain careers abroad compared to the appreciation for certain careers abroad compared to the Philippines' work environment. Philippines' work environment. This was heavily highlighted This was heavily highlighted by a student studying design communication and arts, who by a student studying design communication and arts, who states, “The Philippines lacks appreciation for work in the states, “The Philippines lacks appreciation for work in the design industry and typically receive underpaid salaries despite design industry and typically receive underpaid salaries despite skillful work and experience”. skillful work and experience”.

Other than that, Other than that, (2) a preference for the general (2) a preference for the general educational structure of international schools over local educational structure of international schools over local universities was also expressed by all interviewees. universities was also expressed by all interviewees. Due to Due to the requirement of general or “floating” subjects in Philippine the requirement of general or “floating” subjects in Philippine universities unrelated to one ’ s specific course, these students universities unrelated to one ’ s specific course, these students prefer a more direct approach and focused study on their prefer a more direct approach and focused study on their respective fields. They claim that these “floating” subjects are respective fields. They claim that these “floating” subjects are a “waste of time and money” considering that they spend a “waste of time and money” considering that they spend money to focus on a specific field offered in the university. money to focus on a specific field offered in the university.

LLastly, astly, (3) students also valued the credibility and (3) students also valued the credibility and recognition of international universities especially when recognition of international universities especially when securing a job in the future. securing a job in the future. Although the Philippines’ “Big 4 Although the Philippines’ “Big 4 Universities” holds a great title to its students, these Universities” holds a great title to its students, these interviewees recognize that the Philippine education system is interviewees recognize that the Philippine education system is not as well-accredited compared to international universities, not as well-accredited compared to international universities, especially if one intends to migrate to a different country. especially if one intends to migrate to a different country.

Although every student has their own personal reasons for Although every student has their own personal reasons for choosing to study internationally, all interviewees agreed that choosing to study internationally, all interviewees agreed that COVID-19 was not a hindrance, but more of a reminder of COVID-19 was not a hindrance, but more of a reminder of their motive for studying abroad. their motive for studying abroad. As President Duterte As President Duterte announced a nationwide lockdown on March 12, 2020, in announced a nationwide lockdown on March 12, 2020, in response to the COVID-19 health threat, this heavily affected the response to the COVID-19 health threat, this heavily affected the community’s work, transportation, education, and the general community’s work, transportation, education, and the general

As these interviewees from various local high schools such as; St.

As these interviewees from various local high schools such as; St. Paul College Pasig, Poveda Highschool, and MINT experienced a Paul College Pasig, Poveda Highschool, and MINT experienced a year of each school’s online education system all agree that the year of each school’s online education system all agree that the online set-up negatively affected their learning process and online set-up negatively affected their learning process and

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health and better study experience” health and better study experience” (2021). In addition to (2021). In addition to this, data gathered by International Education Specialists (IDP) this, data gathered by International Education Specialists (IDP) Philippines, shares that Philippines, shares that approximately 49,000 Filipino approximately 49,000 Filipino students pursued studies in different countries once students pursued studies in different countries once restrictions for the COVID-19 pandemic began to ease. restrictions for the COVID-19 pandemic began to ease. TThis his

main differences between the Philippine education system and main differences between the Philippine education system and other countries is that their universities are able to grasp a other countries is that their universities are able to grasp a better sense of work-life balance that lets students manage better sense of work-life balance that lets students manage their time with other responsibilities outside of academics. their time with other responsibilities outside of academics. Plenty of students share their strong desire to juggle part-time

Plenty of students share their strong desire to juggle part-time work with university studies which was made possible through work with university studies which was made possible through the normalization of working students in international countries. the normalization of working students in international countries. This opportunity was unique to them as middle-class Filipino This opportunity was unique to them as middle-class Filipino students typically only have time for specialized studies in order students typically only have time for specialized studies in order to keep up with the demands of local universities. to keep up with the demands of local universities.

However, However, not all students had easy access to international not all students had easy access to international opportunities. opportunities. Due to external factors such as possible Due to external factors such as possible restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, lack of resources, or restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, lack of resources, or financial support, students who intended to apply abroad could financial support, students who intended to apply abroad could have turned down the opportunity. An international student in have turned down the opportunity. An international student in Singapore shares her efforts in obtaining a Scholarship for La Singapore shares her efforts in obtaining a Scholarship for La Salle College of Arts as she states that “Without working hard on Salle College of Arts as she states that “Without working hard on my high school grades or my creative portfolio, I wouldn’t have my high school grades or my creative portfolio, I wouldn’t have been able to study abroad without financial assistance”. This can been able to study abroad without financial assistance”. This can be the case for plenty of Filipinos, especially those who have to be the case for plenty of Filipinos, especially those who have to rise above the circumstances in reaching their goals amidst the rise above the circumstances in reaching their goals amidst the pandemic’s restrictions. pandemic’s restrictions.

heightened lack of quality education amidst online learning heightened lack of quality education amidst online learning increased the demand for face-to-face classes for higher increased the demand for face-to-face classes for higher llearning. earning.

REFERENCES REFERENCES

[1] CEF (2021, September 1) Mapping COVID-19’s impact on global student mobility ICEF [1] CEF. (2021, September 1). Mapping COVID-19’s impact on global student mobility. ICEF Monitor Monitor. Retrieved from https://monitor icef com/2021/09/mapping-covid-19s-impact-on- Retrieved https://monitor.icef.com/2021/09/mapping-covid-19s-impact-onglobal-student-mobility/ global-student-mobility/

[2] Ranara, J (2022, November 24) Home Life The Philippine Star Retrieved from [2] Ranara, J. (2022, November 24). Home. Life The Philippine Star. Retrieved https://philstarlife com/self/238777-nearly-50000-filipino-students-abroad?page=2 https://philstarlife.com/self/238777-nearly-50000-filipino-students-abroad?page=2

[3] Simbulan, N P (2020, June 4) The Philippines – COVID-19 and Its Impact on Higher Education

[3] Simbulan, N. P. (2020, June 4). The Philippines – COVID-19 and Impact on Higher Education in the Philippines The HEAD Foundation Retrieved from in the Philippines The HEAD Foundation Retrieved from https://headfoundation org/2020/06/04/covid-19-and-its-impact-on-higher-education-in-the- https://headfoundation org/2020/06/04/covid-19-and-its-impact-on-higher-education-in-thephilippines/

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ating back to 2001, when the very first ating back to 2001, when the very first national mental health policy was national mental health policy was issued, how much have we issued, how much have we progressed since then? progressed since then?

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ental health in the Philippines has been known to be given ental health in the Philippines has been known to be given as little attention and value as compared to physical health. As as little attention and value as compared to physical health. As we progressed in time, more and more advocates voiced out we progressed in time, more and more advocates voiced out the need to value mental health as cases were concerningly the need to value mental health as cases were concerningly rising through the years and especially during the pandemic. In rising through the years and especially during the pandemic. In a study written in 2020, it was stated that mental illness is the a study written in 2020, it was stated that mental illness is the third most common disability in the Philippines. Around 6 million third most common disability in the Philippines. Around 6 million Filipinos are estimated to live with depression and/or anxiety, Filipinos are estimated to live with depression and/or anxiety, making the Philippines the country with the third highest rate of making the Philippines the country with the third highest rate of mental health problems in the Western Pacific Region [2]. mental health problems in the Western Pacific Region [2].

Based on a survey by the Department of Education, there were Based on a survey by the Department of Education, there were 404 student deaths due to suicide and 2,147 suicide attempts

404 student deaths due to suicide and 2,147 suicide attempts during the school year 2021-2022. Acknowledging the data, during the school year 2021-2022. Acknowledging the data, Senator Win Gatchalian calls out the need to have better Senator Win Gatchalian calls out the need to have better mental health programs in schools. Experts say that lack of mental health programs in schools. Experts say that lack of mental health programs and experts to guide the students may mental health programs and experts to guide the students may be a big reason for the rising numbers. be a big reason for the rising numbers.

On February 09, 2023, a 17-year-old student died after falling On February 09, 2023, a 17-year-old student died after falling from a building at San Beda College Alabang (SBCA). The from a building at San Beda College Alabang (SBCA). The student was seen by a canteen concessionaire as she parked her student was seen by a canteen concessionaire as she parked her vehicle in front of the building the student fell off. There were vehicle in front of the building the student fell off. There were students and personnel who had seen the body, pictures also had students and personnel who had seen the body, pictures also had reportedly spread out in the student community. Trauma and reportedly spread out in the student community. Trauma and shock were undoubtedly the most felt emotions that day. shock were undoubtedly the most felt emotions that day.

The day after, classes were not suspended and the tag

The day after, classes were not suspended and the tag #BedaDoBetter trended on Twitter, with tweets from Bedans #BedaDoBetter trended on Twitter, with tweets from Bedans (students from San Beda) tweeting their dismay, disappointment, (students from San Beda) tweeting their dismay, disappointment, and anger towards the administration of the institution. A mental and anger towards the administration of the institution. A mental health check forum and mass was conducted on the same day. health check forum and mass was conducted on the same day.

Later on, a video clip was also posted, showing a guidance

Later on, a video clip was also posted, showing a guidance counselor talking to the students and telling them “not to counselor talking to the students and telling them “not to exaggerate the pictures”. exaggerate the pictures”.

Transcript from the clip: Transcript from the clip: “

“Please do not exaggerate the picture. Do not exaggerate it. Please do not exaggerate the picture. Do not exaggerate it.

Kung ano lang nakita niyo, yun lang. If you feel sad about it, Kung ano lang nakita niyo, yun lang. If you feel sad about it, okay. Pero if you ’ re going to exaggerate your feelings on one okay. Pero if you ’ re going to exaggerate your feelings on one part of that picture, that is totally wrong kasi kapiraso lang part of that picture, that is totally wrong kasi kapiraso lang

naman nakita niyo tapos apektado kayo buong araw.” ”

naman nakita niyo tapos apektado kayo buong araw.

((Please do not exaggerate the picture. Do not exaggerate it. Please do not exaggerate the picture. Do not exaggerate it. Whatever you saw, that’s it. If you feel sad about it, okay. But if Whatever you saw, that’s it. If you feel sad about it, okay. But if you ’ re going to exaggerate your feelings on one part of that you ’ re going to exaggerate your feelings on one part of that picture, that is totally wrong because you only saw a bit of it and picture, that is totally wrong because you only saw a bit of it and you’ll let it affect you for the whole day.”) you’ll let it affect you for the whole day.”)

The said guidance counselor had already issued an apology. The said guidance counselor had already issued an apology.

A tweet by Twitter user plutocinths, “#BedaDoBetter I’ve said

A tweet by Twitter user plutocinths, “#BedaDoBetter I’ve said this once and I’ll say it again, SBCA High School Division this once and I’ll say it again, SBCA High School Division admins are one of the most disgusting and horrible admins I admins are one of the most disgusting and horrible admins I have ever witnessed. You have invalidated hundreds of have ever witnessed. You have invalidated hundreds of students’ trauma and continue to brush things off.” Following students’ trauma and continue to brush things off.” Following this tweet, a screen-recorded clip of a guidance counselor this tweet, a screen-recorded clip of a guidance counselor telling students to exaggerate the picture [the incident] was telling students to exaggerate the picture [the incident] was uploaded. However, not only students were enraged but also uploaded. However, not only students were enraged but also parents. One parent posted an open letter directed to SBCA, parents. One parent posted an open letter directed to SBCA, expressing disappointment on how they handled the situation expressing disappointment on how they handled the situation and how parents were “kept-in-the-dark” about what and how parents were “kept-in-the-dark” about what happened to the students on campus on that very day [1]. happened to the students on campus on that very day [1].

How are the students? How are the students?

In the series of interviews with students from SBCA conducted, it

In the series of interviews with students from SBCA conducted, it was concluded that students wanted transparency and a time of was concluded that students wanted transparency and a time of grieving to collect their emotions, but sadly they did not receive grieving to collect their emotions, but sadly they did not receive any. Instead, the institution conducted a mental health check any. Instead, the institution conducted a mental health check forum. Classes were not suspended until the hashtag trended, forum. Classes were not suspended until the hashtag trended, exposing how the administration was handling the incident. This exposing how the administration was handling the incident. This was where the viral clip sprung from; a guidance counselor was where the viral clip sprung from; a guidance counselor telling students to not exaggerate the picture [the incident]. telling students to not exaggerate the picture [the incident].

When asked about the current status of mental health in SBCA, When asked about the current status of mental health in SBCA, students do agree that it gets talked about but to a certain students do agree that it gets talked about but to a certain extent only. Interviewee B mentioned that they only talk about the extent only. Interviewee B mentioned that they only talk about the basics and that it all goes back to God and praying. Meanwhile, basics and that it all goes back to God and praying. Meanwhile, Interviewee A says that mental health was only being talked Interviewee A says that mental health was only being talked about sometimes. The institution talked about it more after the about sometimes. The institution talked about it more after the incident, but in the guidance sessions conducted, Interviewee A incident, but in the guidance sessions conducted, Interviewee A finds that they talk about anything but mental health itself. The finds that they talk about anything but mental health itself. The guidance counselors she talked to always just redirects her guidance counselors she talked to always just redirects her concerns to religious activities, due to this she doesn’t find herself concerns to religious activities, due to this she doesn’t find herself wanting to get mental support from the school’s own resources. wanting to get mental support from the school’s own resources. Another reason is she experienced how the guidance counselor Another reason is she experienced how the guidance counselor invalidated the students’ feelings in that mental health check invalidated the students’ feelings in that mental health check forum they had the day after the incident. forum they had the day after the incident.

When asked for a request to be interviewed, the counseling department of San Beda College Alabang denied Stating that department of San Beda College Alabang denied Stating that

When asked for a request to be interviewed, the counseling

What would they like to see? What would they like to see?

When asked about the current effectiveness of their institution’s When asked about the current effectiveness of their institution’s mental health programs, if there is any, students give a sad mental health programs, if there is any, students give a sad “ no ” . Though there are mental health checks and talks, the “ no ” . Though there are mental health checks and talks, the effectiveness is yet to be seen. effectiveness is yet to be seen.

Interviewee 1 wants to see really effective counselors around Interviewee 1 wants to see really effective counselors around the school, those who don’t invalidate others’ feelings, and the school, those who don’t invalidate others’ feelings, and welcome them with open arms and as for Interviewee 2, " It welcome them with open arms and as for Interviewee 2, " It would be refreshing to see new information about mental would be refreshing to see new information about mental health issues and the mental wellbeing of students in general health issues and the mental wellbeing of students in general that are relevant to our lives, whether it be inside or outside of that are relevant to our lives, whether it be inside or outside of the classroom." the classroom."

What now? What now?

As of now, students of SBCA don't see an improvement

As of now, students of SBCA don't see an improvement following the past incident. Students continue to hope and use following the past incident. Students continue to hope and use their voices for a better system that doesn't urge them to pray their voices for a better system that doesn't urge them to pray their emotions away but rather, a system that would listen and their emotions away but rather, a system that would listen and give them the support and validation they need. give them the support and validation they need.

References References

[1] Manila Bulletin. (2023, February 11). San Beda College [1] Manila Bulletin. (2023, February 11). San Beda College

Alabang excuses students traumatized by death of 12th grader. Alabang excuses students traumatized by death of 12th grader.

hhttps://mb.com.ph/2023/02/11/san-beda-college-alabangttps://mb.com.ph/2023/02/11/san-beda-college-alabangeexcuses-students-traumatized-by-death-of-12th-grader/ xcuses-students-traumatized-by-death-of-12th-grader/

[2] Martinez, A.B., Co, M., Lau, J. et al. (2020, August 20). Filipino [2] Martinez, A.B., Co, M., Lau, J. et al. (2020, August 20). Filipino help-seeking for mental health problems and associated barriers help-seeking for mental health problems and associated barriers and facilitators: a systematic review. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr and facilitators: a systematic review. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 55, 1397–1413. Epidemiol 55, 1397–1413. hhttps://doi.org/10.1007/s00127-020ttps://doi.org/10.1007/s00127-020001937-2 1937-2

o you think there are more wealthy o you think there are more wealthy students at UP? students at UP? D D

As of the Academic Year (A.Y.) 2022-2023, some UP students expressed their observations regarding the increasing number expressed their observations regarding the increasing number of wealthy students in the University on online discussion of wealthy students in the University on online discussion platforms. platforms.

As of the Academic Year (A.Y.) 2022-2023, some UP students

Source: r/peyups - Bakit mostly mayayaman ang nakakapasa sa UP (n d ) Reddit

Source: r/peyups - Bakit mostly mayayaman ang nakakapasa sa UP (n d ) Reddit https://www reddit com/r/peyups/comments/vodt61/bakit mostly_mayayaman ang nakakapasa sa up/ https://www reddit com/r/peyups/comments/vodt61/bakit mostly_mayayaman ang nakakapasa sa up/

Around 16 students from various campuses of UP (eg. UP Around 16 students from various campuses of UP (eg. UP Diliman, UP Los Baños, UP Open University, UP Manila) have Diliman, UP Los Baños, UP Open University, UP Manila) have answered the survey questionnaire, 2 UP Manila students have answered the survey questionnaire, 2 UP Manila students have been interviewed as well as 2 Guards - Guard A and Guard B been interviewed as well as 2 Guards - Guard A and Guard B who has worked for UP Manila for more than 10 years and more who has worked for UP Manila for more than 10 years and more than 1 year respectively, confirmed that there are a lot of than 1 year respectively, confirmed that there are a lot of wealthy students on their campuses. wealthy students on their campuses.

Below are the specific responses of the 16 respondents to the Below are the specific responses of the 16 respondents to the survey questionnaire. survey questionnaire.

Based on the 2 UP students’ who got interviewed, Based on the 2 UP students’ who got interviewed, they noticed they noticed the gadgets of the students, their lifestyle, and how they dress the gadgets of the students, their lifestyle, and how they dress is a factors for distinguishing wealthy students from not is a factors for distinguishing wealthy students from not. For . For them, having a condo near campus, a car, iPhone, MacBook, or them, having a condo near campus, a car, iPhone, MacBook, or an iPad is an indication of someone who is wealthy enough to an iPad is an indication of someone who is wealthy enough to afford them. Although they also consider how students dress, afford them. Although they also consider how students dress, they think that you cannot see how wealthy someone is based they think that you cannot see how wealthy someone is based on their appearance. on their appearance.

One student from Los Baños (Student A), who enrolled in the One student from Los Baños (Student A), who enrolled in the Year 2015 and graduated in the Year 2019, observed how there Year 2015 and graduated in the Year 2019, observed how there are already a lot of wealthy students during her time at the are already a lot of wealthy students during her time at the university. university.

Similarly, in an interview with Guard A, Similarly, in an interview with Guard A, she observed that there she observed that there are already a lot of wealthy students 10 years ago and so as in are already a lot of wealthy students 10 years ago and so as in the present. the present. While Guard B, from what he observed, sees that While Guard B, from what he observed, sees that there are an equal number of wealthy and low-class students there are an equal number of wealthy and low-class students on campus. on campus.

When I asked about how students go to the university, both When I asked about how students go to the university, both guards mentioned that there are students who were driven guards mentioned that there are students who were driven

by their parents, drivers, or they drove the car themselves. While by their parents, drivers, or they drove the car themselves. While there are also students who commute and walk to school if there are also students who commute and walk to school if they are living close to the university. they are living close to the university.

Furthermore, when I asked them whether or not there are Furthermore, when I asked them whether or not there are expensive things inside the bags of students every time they expensive things inside the bags of students every time they check, they said, as university students, it is normal to have their check, they said, as university students, it is normal to have their own laptops. Guard B, however, noticed that there are also own laptops. Guard B, however, noticed that there are also some who bring their iPad to school. some who bring their iPad to school.

Why? Why are there a lot of wealthy students based Why? Why are there a lot of wealthy students based on the interviewees' and respondents’ observations? on the interviewees' and respondents’ observations?

1 out of the 16 respondents said the most influential factor is

1 out of the 16 respondents said the most influential factor is the free tuition “Personally, I think the free tuition is the free tuition “Personally, I think the free tuition is the most the most influential factor for wealthy students entering UP. influential factor for wealthy students entering UP. In my case, I In my case, I entered UP because my parents constantly pushed for it due to entered UP because my parents constantly pushed for it due to the free tuition.” the free tuition.”

In the year 2013, the UP Board of Regents approved the In the year 2013, the UP Board of Regents approved the Socialized Tuition (ST) System which was implemented starting Socialized Tuition (ST) System which was implemented starting A.Y. 2014-2015. A.Y. 2014-2015. The ST System utilizes tuition discounts The ST System utilizes tuition discounts according to the brackets of your family’s income. according to the brackets of your family’s income. The higher The higher your family income, the lower the discount will be. Through this, your family income, the lower the discount will be. Through this, UP hopes to fully financially assist students whose annual UP hopes to fully financially assist students whose annual household income is below 135,000 pesos. More information household income is below 135,000 pesos. More information about the bracket and the tuition discount can be seen below. about the bracket and the tuition discount can be seen below.

In 2018, UP stopped using the ST System and started In 2018, UP stopped using the ST System and started implementing the implementing the Republic Act No, 10931 or also known as the Republic Act No, 10931 or also known as the “Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act of 2017” “Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act of 2017” and it's Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) and it's Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) that were that were signed and approved on February 22, 2018. It stated that signed and approved on February 22, 2018. It stated that “Tuition and Other School Fees (OSF) shall NOT be collected “Tuition and Other School Fees (OSF) shall NOT be collected from Filipino undergraduates except for those students who from Filipino undergraduates except for those students who are not qualified for it” are not qualified for it”

The specific policies were indicated in the Guidelines to The specific policies were indicated in the Guidelines to Implement the Grant of Free Tuition and Other School Fees in Implement the Grant of Free Tuition and Other School Fees in UP released on July 30, 2018 (UPOU Free Tuition for UP released on July 30, 2018 (UPOU Free Tuition for Undergraduates (RA 10931), n.d.). The Guidelines States that: Undergraduates (RA 10931), n.d.). The Guidelines States that:

Although UP has implemented free tuition and other school

Although UP has implemented free tuition and other school fees, they continuously select who to admit based on their fees, they continuously select who to admit based on their UPCAT exams and their UPG or University Predicted Grade, UPCAT exams and their UPG or University Predicted Grade, which consists of 60% of your UPCAT grade and 40% of your which consists of 60% of your UPCAT grade and 40% of your high school grades. high school grades.

Through this process, Through this process, UPCAT and UPG, most respondents UPCAT and UPG, most respondents mentioned that they are becoming a factor in why there are an mentioned that they are becoming a factor in why there are an increasing number of wealthy students in UP. increasing number of wealthy students in UP.

Student A, who experienced the ST System and RA no. 10931, Student A, who experienced the ST System and RA no. 10931, said, “There are a lot of wealthy students even when RA 10931 is said, “There are a lot of wealthy students even when RA 10931 is not yet implemented. not yet implemented. She said that wealthy students are the She said that wealthy students are the ones who have access to resources that enable them to enroll, ones who have access to resources that enable them to enroll, live, and thrive in the university. live, and thrive in the university. For instance, Grade 12 students For instance, Grade 12 students enrolled in review centers for college entrance exams have a enrolled in review centers for college entrance exams have a higher chance of passing the exam, however, these classes higher chance of passing the exam, however, these classes would be P5,000+ pesos which is kind of expensive for other would be P5,000+ pesos which is kind of expensive for other families already.” families already.”

Meanwhile, other students said, “Students who have a good Meanwhile, other students said, “Students who have a good educational background in high school (private schools) can educational background in high school (private schools) can also affect the assessment of being accepted in the University, also affect the assessment of being accepted in the University, unlike those who studied in public schools.” unlike those who studied in public schools.”

Thus, more wealthy students are the ones who are benefiting Thus, more wealthy students are the ones who are benefiting from the UP free tuition. from the UP free tuition.

Additionally, in the reply to the earlier online discussion, Additionally, in the reply to the earlier online discussion, one one factor is said to be the parents of the UP students, who are UP factor is said to be the parents of the UP students, who are UP or the Top 4 alumni themselves, and their generational wealth or the Top 4 alumni themselves, and their generational wealth. . Here is the full comment of both of them. Here is the full comment of both of them.

Source: r/peyups - Bakit mostly mayayaman ang nakakapasa sa UP (n d ) Reddit

Source: r/peyups - Bakit mostly mayayaman ang nakakapasa sa (n d ) Reddit

https://www reddit com/r/peyups/comments/vodt61/bakit mostly_mayayaman ang nakakapasa sa up/ https://www reddit mostly_mayayaman ang nakakapasa sa up/

Para Kanino Ba Ang UP? Para Kanino Ba Ang UP?

Out of 16 students who responded to the questionnaire, 62.5% Out of 16 students who responded to the questionnaire, 62.5% (10) believe UP is for the Low Class while 37.5% (6) believe it is (10) believe UP is for the Low Class while 37.5% (6) believe it is for the middle class. for the middle class.

Yet Yet the majority’s perspective regarding how UP is for the low the majority’s perspective regarding how UP is for the low class does not really apply to the current class status of the class does not really apply to the current class status of the students in the University. students in the University.

References: References:

(1) A Primer on the UP Socialized Tuition System. (2017). (1) A Primer on the UP Socialized Tuition System. (2017). University of the University of the Philippines Philippines. Retrieved April 18, 2023, from https://ovpaa.up.edu.ph/wp- . Retrieved April 18, 2023, from https://ovpaa.up.edu.ph/wpcontent/uploads/2017/03/A-Primer-on-UPs-Socialized-Tuition-Systemcontent/uploads/2017/03/A-Primer-on-UPs-Socialized-Tuition-System27Feb17-2.pdf 27Feb17-2.pdf

((2) 2) r/peyups - Bakit mostly mayayaman ang nakakapasa sa UP r/peyups - Bakit mostly mayayaman ang nakakapasa sa UP. (n.d.). . (n.d.). Reddit. Reddit.

https://www.reddit.com/r/peyups/comments/vodt61/bakit mostly ma https://www.reddit.com/r/peyups/comments/vodt61/bakit mostly ma yayaman ang nakakapasa sa up/ yayaman ang nakakapasa sa up/

((3) 3) UPOU Free Tuition for Undergraduates (RA 10931) UPOU Free Tuition for Undergraduates (RA 10931). (n.d.). UP Open . (n.d.). UP Open University Helpdesk. University Helpdesk. https://helpdesk.upou.edu.ph/support/solutions/articles/48001148511https://helpdesk.upou.edu.ph/support/solutions/articles/48001148511ffree-tuition-for-undergraduates-ra-10931ree-tuition-for-undergraduates-ra-10931-

The late great John Wooden, coach of the UCLA Bruins men ' s

The late great John Wooden, coach of the UCLA Bruins men ' s basketball team once said, basketball team once said, "A good coach can change a "A good coach can change a game. A great coach can change a life." game. A great coach can change a life."

To a casual enjoyer or a non-sports fan, the depth of these To a casual enjoyer or a non-sports fan, the depth of these words could very well fly over one ' s head. Generally, it is the words could very well fly over one ' s head. Generally, it is the players that are credited for a team's success, with the coach players that are credited for a team's success, with the coach merely thought of as a stern supervisor that barks orders at his merely thought of as a stern supervisor that barks orders at his players from time to time. players from time to time.

Coaches would beg to differ. If anything, coaches are the Coaches would beg to differ. If anything, coaches are the visionary directors that make the entire show possible. Coach visionary directors that make the entire show possible. Coach Milton, who was the head coach of multiple Uno High School

Milton, who was the head coach of multiple Uno High School teams for close to thirty years up until his retirement in 2013, teams for close to thirty years up until his retirement in 2013, says that the success of a team depends on the collective says that the success of a team depends on the collective effort of both coaches and players. It is the players that are effort of both coaches and players. It is the players that are playing and not the coach, but the coach serves as the playing and not the coach, but the coach serves as the foremost leader of the team, acting as a guide for his troops in foremost leader of the team, acting as a guide for his troops in and out of battle. He also mentions that the success of a and out of battle. He also mentions that the success of a coach depends on the team and that championships are won coach depends on the team and that championships are won because of players following what the team wants. As for his because of players following what the team wants. As for his effectiveness as a coach, he states that he will not be as effectiveness as a coach, he states that he will not be as effective if his players do not positively respond to his effective if his players do not positively respond to his coaching. In his words, coaching. In his words, "We have to be able to meet halfway." "We have to be able to meet halfway."

A coach's journey to becoming a coach is not always the A coach's journey to becoming a coach is not always the same, but as a rule of thumb, it requires having had experience same, but as a rule of thumb, it requires having had experience in the sport in question beforehand. After a lengthy playing in the sport in question beforehand. After a lengthy playing career, a lot of people turn to coaching to continue their time career, a lot of people turn to coaching to continue their time spent on the sport. This was the case for Coach Milton, who spent on the sport. This was the case for Coach Milton, who played during his high school years and in his final year, came played during his high school years and in his final year, came under the mentorship? of the renowned Coach Joe Lipa, who under the mentorship? of the renowned Coach Joe Lipa, who was also the coach for the UP Fighting Maroons at that time. was also the coach for the UP Fighting Maroons at that time. Right after his graduation, Coach Milton started his tenure as a Right after his graduation, Coach Milton started his tenure as a coach, serving as an assistant to Coach Joe Lipa in coaching coach, serving as an assistant to Coach Joe Lipa in coaching his former teammates. his former teammates.

"The adjustment period was hard not just because I was "The adjustment period was hard not just because I was coaching my former teammates, but also because I had to coaching my former teammates, but also because I had to prove to them that I could coach." prove to them that I could coach."

As a rookie coach, one not necessarily has to start from As a rookie coach, one not necessarily has to start from the bottom, but gaining players' trust and respect is something the bottom, but gaining players' trust and respect is something that is not immediately earned. This is something that takes that is not immediately earned. This is something that takes time to develop and comes with more knowledge and time to develop and comes with more knowledge and experience. The recently-retired Coach Krzyzewski or Coach K experience. The recently-retired Coach Krzyzewski or Coach K of the Duke Blue Devils basketball team also echoed the same of the Duke Blue Devils basketball team also echoed the same sentiment saying, “Every leader needs to remember that a sentiment saying, “Every leader needs to remember that a healthy respect for authority takes time to develop. It’s like healthy respect for authority takes time to develop. It’s like building trust. building trust. You don’t instantly have trust; it has to be You don’t instantly have trust; it has to be earned.” earned.”

Coach Milton stuck with the process of learning. He slowly

Coach Milton stuck with the process of learning. He slowly gained knowledge through experience, reading books, learning gained knowledge through experience, reading books, learning from American coaches, and pouring hours into watching from American coaches, and pouring hours into watching college basketball. In two years ' time, he was named head college basketball. In two years ' time, he was named head coach of the team. And another two years later in 1989, he coach of the team. And another two years later in 1989, he coached the likes of Goldwyn Monteverde, the current head coached the likes of Goldwyn Monteverde, the current head coach of the UP Fighting Maroons, and Paul Du, a former coach of the UP Fighting Maroons, and Paul Du, a former professional basketball player and current NU Lady Bulldogs professional basketball player and current NU Lady Bulldogs assistant coach, and led them to a championship. assistant coach, and led them to a championship.

s with months of preparation, training kids physically, mentally, and with months of preparation, training kids physically, mentally, and spiritually. According to Coach K, champions have to play as they spiritually. According to Coach K, champions have to play as they practice, together with the need to create a consistency of practice, together with the need to create a consistency of excellence in one ' s habits. In Coach Milton's eyes, players have to excellence in one ' s habits. In Coach Milton's eyes, players have to experience pain and frustration through hard practices to prepare experience pain and frustration through hard practices to prepare them for situations where they have to deal with negativity or them for situations where they have to deal with negativity or pressure. When players lack the confidence to perform well or face pressure. When players lack the confidence to perform well or face tough opponents, they have to be encouraged to do better. In tough opponents, they have to be encouraged to do better. In assessing development, Coach Milton finds that real improvement assessing development, Coach Milton finds that real improvement comes with exceeding one ' s own expectations for oneself, not comes with exceeding one ' s own expectations for oneself, not expectations from others expectations from others.

In several aspects, coaches are similar to teachers, as they possess

In several aspects, coaches are similar to teachers, as they possess the ability to create a lasting impact, whether positive or negative, the ability to create a lasting impact, whether positive or negative, on their pupils. It all depends on how the coach teaches, and equally on their pupils. It all depends on how the coach teaches, and equally important is the need for there to be active and open important is the need for there to be active and open communication within the team. A team can also not expect to win communication within the team. A team can also not expect to win without showing effort and commitment. Coach Milton recounts one without showing effort and commitment. Coach Milton recounts one particular moment when he had announced to his team that they particular moment when he had announced to his team that they would hold a training session the following morning, and one of his would hold a training session the following morning, and one of his players said he could not make it because he and his family were in players said he could not make it because he and his family were in Tagaytay. After a talk with the player’s parents, Coach Milton gave Tagaytay. After a talk with the player’s parents, Coach Milton gave the ultimatum that if the player were to not show up at practice, he the ultimatum that if the player were to not show up at practice, he would not be able to play in the upcoming game. Coach Milton did would not be able to play in the upcoming game. Coach Milton did so in order to be fair to the player's teammates who were going to so in order to be fair to the player's teammates who were going to attend basketball practice. The next day, the player showed up just attend basketball practice. The next day, the player showed up just as if he had not been in Tagaytay the night before. as if he had not been in Tagaytay the night before.

Becoming a good coach requires dedication and sacrifice. It is also

Becoming a good coach requires dedication and sacrifice. It is also important to be open-minded and be willing to roll with the punches. important to be open-minded and be willing to roll with the punches. Great coaches, however, become more than just that. They teach Great coaches, however, become more than just that. They teach llife. ife. Just like life itself, in sports, there will always be winners and Just like life itself, in sports, there will always be winners and losers. As a coach, the most significant lessons one can impart to losers As a coach, the most significant lessons one can impart to one ’ s pupils are essential life skills and the ability to deal with trials, one ’ s pupils are essential life skills and the ability to deal with trials, tribulations, and frustrations For people such as John Wooden, tribulations, and frustrations. For people such as John Wooden, Coach K, Coach Milton, and numerous other coaches who share the Coach K, Coach Milton, and numerous other coaches who share the same philosophy, real success comes from developing players to same philosophy, real success comes from developing players to succeed not only in school but also in their later careers, succeed not only in school but also in their later careers, relationships, and endeavors. One key to achieving this is to practice relationships, and endeavors. One key to achieving this is to practice what one preaches be it by having to arrive early for practice, what one preaches be it by having to arrive early for practice, getting enough sleep before games, or by maintaining self- getting enough sleep before games, or by maintaining selfdiscipline Doing so is important because it shows one ’ s players that discipline. Doing so is important because it shows one ’ s players that one is in solidarity with the team and is willing to do whatever it one is in solidarity with the team and is willing to do whatever it takes to improve. takes to improve.

Many of Coach Milton’s players have become successful in their

Many of Coach Milton’s players have become successful in their respective careers. Some have become doctors and some have respective careers. Some have become doctors and some have become lawyers, but above all, they have grown up to be become lawyers, but above all, they have grown up to be responsible and valuable members of society. As Coach Milton looks responsible and valuable members of society. As Coach Milton looks back on his long career as a high school coach, he fondly back on his long career as a high school coach, he fondly remembers the journey he embarked on. remembers the journey he embarked on. The road to greatness is not The road to greatness is not an easy path to follow an easy path to follow, but it has certainly been worth taking, for in , but it has certainly been worth taking, for in the process, Coach Milton has been able to effect positive change the process, Coach Milton has been able to effect positive change and make a difference in many a student athlete's life. and make a difference in many a student athlete's life.

REFERENCES: REFERENCES:

John R Wooden Quote: "A good coach can change a game A great coach

John R. Wooden Quote: "A good coach can change a game. A great coach can change a life." can change a life " (n.d.). The Foundation for a Better Life. (n d ) The Foundation for a Better Life

https://www passiton com/inspirational-quotes/8230-a-good-coach-canhttps://www.passiton.com/inspirational-quotes/8230-a-good-coach-canchange-a-game-a-great-coach change-a-game-a-great-coach

Mike Krzyzewski Quote: “Champions play as they practice. Create a

Mike Krzyzewski Quote: “Champions play as they practice Create a consistency of excellence in all your habits.” (n.d.). consistency of excellence in all your habits.” (n.d.).

https://quotefancy com/quote/1281209/Mike-Krzyzewski-Champions-play-as-

https://quotefancy.com/quote/1281209/Mike-Krzyzewski-Champions-play-astthey-practice-Create-a-consistency-of-excellence-in-all hey-practice-Create-a-consistency-of-excellence-in-all

Mike Krzyzewski Quote: “Every leader needs to remember that a healthy

Mike Krzyzewski Quote: “Every leader needs to remember that a healthy respect for authority takes time to develop. It’s like building trust. You. . . ” respect for authority takes time to develop. It’s like building trust. You. . . ”

(n d ) https://quotefancy com/quote/1281275/Mike-Krzyzewski-Every-leader- (n d ) https://quotefancy com/quote/1281275/Mike-Krzyzewski-Every-leaderneeds-to-remember-that-a-healthy-respect-for-authority-takes needs-to-remember-that-a-healthy-respect-for-authority-takes