IAS PARAGON 2022-2023 ISSUE

PARAGON

providing perceptions. disarming deceptions.

IAS students are not in favor of MROTC

IAS PARAGON conducted a survey seeking to know the stand of IAS students regarding Mandatory ROTC—are they in favor or not in favor of bringing back this program and adding it to their current curricula? 4 Students of IAS students are in favor of ROTC for believing that it instills discipline and turn out to be of use in times of conflict with other nation-states, supporting the basis of the said senators for authoring the bill. On the other hand, 148 IAS students are not in favor of Mandatory ROTC; reasons for their stand on Mandatory ROTC are given by the respondents:

First, the death of Mark Chua stemming from his publication of corruption inside ROTC demonstrated that it was a program that illustrated abuse of power through corruption and violence.

Written by Hailie Tolentino

Second, mandating students of today to submit themselves to the training is harmful to those who are not physically and mentally fit in view of their ailments and disabilities.

Third, it will erase the very essence of democracy: the right to choose. In line with this, adding this to the curricula of tertiary education would affect the student’s academic freedom, and further adding to their course loads.

Lastly, funds to be allocated for the program would be put to waste. The government has more priorities besides implementing Mandatory ROTC that consistently affects Filipinos.

While it is great for the state to help shape patriotic and nationalist attitudes

Tams join the annual AYLC; carrying values from ‘in thy happy halls’

Written by Eryl Cabiles

AYALA YOUNG LEADERS CONGRESS (AYLC) 2023 included Dee Agojo of Far Eastern University’s (FEU) Political Science Department and Anne Lorraine Escandor of FEU's Psychology Department in their list of 84 qualified participants last May 19.

This annual opportunity made these IAS-breed leaders step out of their niches in FEU, bringing their brand of leadership from “in thy happy halls” to the national platform. These two Arts and Sciences (IAS) students participated in the Congress last July 20-25 to foster their leadership skills and get involved with the widest student-leaders forum in the Philippines.

The actual Congress activities started on July 20 but according to Escandor, there were preCongress works already disseminated online before the main event.

As observed through the years, Tamaraws have always been suited for the standards that the Congress is looking for, both possessed by this year’s FEU representatives.

Agojo has been a vocal advocate of transgender rights and representation both on a personal level and with her legislative works in the FEU Congress as the president of the university’s Sexuality and Gender Alliance (SAGA).

Escandor, on the other hand, as the president of FEU Peace To All Youth Organization and a Legal and Legislative Director of the Psychology Society, brings her leadership experiences from the green institution as well as from Non-Government Organizations like Tulong Kabataan and League of Filipino Students. Moreover, in an interview with IAS Paragon, the Psychology student revealed that it was the desire to “go out of [her] comfort zone” that prompted her to join the event.

“It was funny to me because a

bunch of people [kept on] telling me to stop hiding, so I stopped. I stepped out of my comfort zone and I’m trying to be a better student leader [now], to also challenge myself,” Escandor said, narrating how the people around her pushed her to “stop hiding” and get involved in a kind of bolder leadership.

Additionally, she found the motivation to engage in mass-oriented leadership through the words of the late Chad Booc, a known Filipino activist and volunteer Lumad teacher, who said that “learning” the world doesn’t stop in the formal walls of education.

“Learning doesn’t stop within the four walls of the classroom, we must go out on the streets, sa lansangan at sa kanayunan, sa mga komunidad at sa masa (on the streets and in rural areas, in the communities and with the masses). Kasi ang tunay na laban ay kung nasaan ang masa (Because the real battle is where the masses are),” she reminded herself, explaining how her leadership should involve and be with the masses all the time.

Over the years, the annual leadership event has been urging student leaders all over the Philippines to join by being “focused on shaping young leaders, to strengthen their passion for helping the Filipino people…building communities and networks that are determined to create change and progress for the nation.”

Tamaraw students have been active participants in this occasion, having been represented by esteemed alumni and senior students such as Rigel Alvaran, Gebrel Al Bari, Christian Emmanuel Fampulme, Joshua Maigue, Pauline Palad, Haron Dima, Minette Macalintal, Joshua Valencia, and Nicole Yu, among others, all fostered by the core values of fortitude, excellence, and uprightness instilled by FEU education.

of the youth, the survey has spoken. According to the survey, the majority of IAS Students who participated as respondents are not in favor of the Mandatory ROTC. President BBM’s administration urged for the mandatory of the Reserve Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, popularly known by its acronym: ROTC. Following the appointment of Vice President Sara Duterte as the secretary of the Department of Education, the secretary has been open in planting nationalism and discipline amongst Filipino youth through the ROTC. It should be noted that the abolishment of ROTC dating back to 2001 was linked to the death of a UST student named Mark Chua due to the student publicizing the corruption stemming from bribery and

Institute of Arts and Sciences garner awards for the Academic Year 2022-2023

Written by Alexander Galera and John Robert Sanchez

MANILA, PHILIPPINES --- Different departments under the Institute of Arts and Sciences participated in different external events for the AY 2022-2023, managing to bring home several awards and bringing glory to the institute and the university.

questionable fees collected from the students—it was then replaced with the National Service Training Program (NSTP). Senate Bill 2034 was introduced to Congress on March 21, 2023, by some of the 19th Congress’ senators: Padilla, Ejercito Estrada, Ejercito, Dela Rosa, Gatchalian, and Tolentino. The bill calls for including ROTC in the curricula of higher education institutions (HEI) and Technical-Vocational Institutions (TVI). The reason for mandating ROTC is due to the state’s constitutional obligation to recognize the role of the youth in nation-building—instill patriotism and nationalism among them. The course of action is to provide basic military and police training to prepare the students in times when national defense is threatened and give them a sense of volunteerism and leadership.

The IAS Paragon has tallied, gathered, take note, and asked the Academic Organizations of the Institute of Arts and Sciences about the external achievements that the students have made throughout the entire academic year of 2022-2023.

More specifically, the Department of Mathematics and Department of Communications have made several significant contributions to the Institute. Such contributions revolve around mathematical competitions, films, photographies, pageants, and even as far as entertainment competitions broadcasted on a national television. with fortitude, excellence, and uprightCheck out the whole article on page 3..

New set of officers for the IAS Student Council and Academic Organizations, named

Written by Audrie Sophia Cabacaba

EVERY YEAR, FEU holds its University elections in which students will have the chance to vote and engage in a democratic process of electing the next student-leaders that will represent the green and gold community. Participation in such events helps the Tamaraws hone the skill of selecting

the best leader, which they can then apply beyond the confines of the university. This event also determines the next school year’s efficiency and effectiveness under the newly elected officers.

Check out the whole article on page 2.

WHAT’S INSIDE?

Features

Legacy and Resiliency: The Deanship of Dr. Rowena-Capulong Reyes in the FEU IAS Community page 7

Features

The perceptions of students from the department of IAS nd their own perceived stereotpyes page 5 Opinion

Reflecting and looking back on a year with the new national government. Clue: Worse, so far. page 8

Literary Sit down, relax, and enjoy as you read a scifi piece that tackles our own realities today, entitled: Ligip. page 14

Photo by Leila Dominique Tan

New set of officers for the IAS Student Council and Academic Organizations, named

Written by Audrie Sophia Cabacaba

EVERY YEAR, FEU holds its University elections in which students will have the chance to vote and engage in a democratic process of electing the next student-leaders that will represent the green and gold community. Participation in such events helps the Tamaraws hone the skill of selecting the best leader, which they can then apply beyond the confines of the university. This event also determines the next school year’s efficiency and effectiveness under the newly elected officers.

The election season was felt keenly by the Tamaraw community, which witnessed a variety of approaches taken by candidates in their interactions with the student body. During their campaigns, the candidates tried a variety of ways, including room-to-room and on-the-ground campaigning. Moreover, the candidates also took their campaigning online by posting about their platforms, endorsing each other for different institutes, and with different publication materials which showcase their credentials and previous works.

According to the university’s COMELEC, the campaign period started April 26 which would have only lasted only until May 4. However, there were changes in the calendar, pushing the campaign period until May 6. Voting then transpired on Monday, May 8 until 4 PM of May 9.

The results of the elections were announced late on the evening of May 9, after students had voted for two days via the university’s TamsGo app or by visiting the library. Independent and party-affiliated students alike waited in the grounds to hear the names of the winning candidates announced. The IAS Student Council elected officials for the next school year are as follows:

INSTITUTE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES STUDENT COUNCIL

President:

Chelsea Marie Sioco, BA Communication major

Vice President:

Dandred Ordoñez Eriga, BA Political Science major

Secretary:

Adelfa Maureen Libarios, BA Interdisciplinary Studies major

Treasurer:

Jazmine Carl Romero, BS Psychology major

Auditor:

Echo Cabigao, BA Political Science major P.R.O.:

Kaitlin Eira Kibtiani, BS Psychology major

When asked about what the IAS community could expect from the new set of Executive Board, Chelsea Marie Sioco, the President-elect of the IAS Student Council, shared with us that they will try to be as inclusive as possible so that each IAS student could have an idea on the current affairs of the council. Similarly, the Vice President-elect, Dandred Eriga, ran for the second highest position in the student council due to their “passion for inclusivity and the burning desire to create a positive impact within the student community.”

Despite the claims that the plans of Mx. Sioco tackles the whole FEU community as a whole, they argued that as IAS is part of the FEU, it is inevitable that their term will also focus on university-wide issues. At the same time, the current PRO and now President-elect will not sit still as they will prioritize the IAS community and make sure that their voices will be heard, along with their problems and concerns being resolved. In fact, even Mx. Eriga has stated that the plans they have for the IAS community will be “aimed at creating a supportive and inclusive environment that fosters academic growth, personal development, and holistic well-being.” They will also try to be more organized when it comes to handling projects for the IAS community, and they will ask help from the Academic Organizations and the three organizations under the IAS Powerhouses.

Mx. Sioco and Mx. Eriga shares the same sentiments when it comes to strengthening student involvement, interaction, and engagement between the students, Academic Organizations, and the Student Council itself. The incoming President and Vice President believe that such things will be beneficial in information dissemination, providing quality education, solving concerns, effective discourses and participatory decision-making, and of course, inclusion to the community.

Lastly, the IAS Paragon concluded the interview to ask what these officers could say to the IAS Community. Starting with Mx. Sioco, who is grateful to the trust that they have received, was quoted, saying, “Ipaparamdam namin sainyo na may konsehong nakikiramay at nakikiisa sa mga hinaing nyo at matutulungang tugunan ang anumang grievances sa loob ng pamantasan.” Additionally, Mx. Eriga is excited to embark on the new chapter of their academic journey together with the IAS Community. They were quoted, saying, “Hindi kayo mag-iisa, sama-sama nating tutunguhin ang inklusibong bukas!”

Congratulations to the new members of the IAS Student Council and all the best in serving the IAS community! We look forward to seeing you handling the IAS community!

BIOLOGY SOCIETY:

President: Abigail B. Manding

Vice President: Alyssa R. Esguerra

Secretary: Rebecca May O. Lames

Treasurer: Kemuel Malachi T. Mabalot

Auditor: Maria Aurora V. Celestino

PRO: Reyneisans D. Miano

COMMUNICATION SOCIETY

President: Joella Vlen Camique

Vice President: Jazmine J. Raña

Secretary: Chloe Madlangbayan

Treasurer: Xairwen Gupo

Auditor: Jedidiah S. Laudencia

PRO: Kurtney Sunga

INTERNATIONAL STUDIES SOCIETY

President: Jeane Garcia

Vice President: Kyle Macabante

Secretary: Olivia Ricaforte

Treasurer: Lexine Agra

Auditor: Andre Nambio

PRO: Beatrice Doria

POLITICAL SCIENCE SOCIETY

President: Kimberly Peredo

Vice President:Holly Castillo

Secretary: Christian Paul Pamadulan

Treasurer: Eduardo Mendoza

Auditor: Ernest Louie Barde

PRO: Cal Fajardo

PSYCHOLOGY SOCIETY

President: Rome Carly P. Aragon

Vice President: Joanna Marie Lising

Secretary: Missy Angeli Mabulay

Treasurer: Khryzia Althea Marcelo

Auditor: Andrea Sofia Medina

PRO: Ayla Pias

Department of Communication undergraduate theses bags several awards in various international conferences

Written by Micah Janea Salud

STANDING TALL with dignity and passion, the students of the Bachelor of Arts in Communication of the Far Eastern University, under the Institute of Arts and Sciences raised the flag for academic excellence in various fields of endeavor. While BA Communication students are best known for creating marvelous films, documentaries, and revolutionary photographs capturing significant and heartfelt moments, they are actually much more than meets the eye.

Numerous papers and works on a variety of topics received recognition in the Asia-Pacific Journal of Communication. Alongside the university’s project proponent, the Atma Jaya Catholic University of Indonesia, and other participating educational institutions such as the University of Thai Chamber of Commerce and the University of the Philippines Mindanao — thus, the students of the Institute of Arts and Sciences were ecstatic to be a part of this event.

The Far Eastern University’s Department of Communication bagged multiple awards in different categories. In the “Best Paper” category, the communication students stood loud and proud following the of the fourth-year students. One of them is the Managing Editor of IAS Paragon, Angelica Louise P. Mercado, alongside her group mates, which were April James C. Alegre and Frances Beatrix A. Aquilizan, the documentation and photojournalism head of IAS Paragon, respectively, Maricor Janilienne M. Cabarrubia, and lastly, Bryan C. Gadingan with their paper entitled, “A Thematic Analysis on Heterophily Twitter Users’ Online Interaction about the Duterte’s Administration COVID-19 Response”. Reaching the depths of academic excellence, the Faculty of Far Eastern University’s Communication Department, featuring Dr. Ma. Pamela Grace C. Muhi alongside Rosa Bella M. Quindoza received high praise for garnering an award for Best Paper with the title, “Health Risk and Crisis Communication on COVID-19 in Marikina and Pasig: The case of Two Philippine Cities” who participated at the event, The Asia-Pacific Journal of Communication.

Fuelled with passion and determination, the success of a group of senior communication Tamaraw students is notable for an applause and acknowledgement, who presented their thesis which is entitled, “The Relationship between Hygiene-related Television Advertisements and the Perception of Viewers about Masculinity”. Held at the 7th International Asia-Pacific Public Relations Research and Education Network Conference, the members, Laurice Anne Alas, Elisha Joy Garcera, Alliah Jean Madlangbayan, Chriselle Olaguera, and Sophia Nicole Valerio, showed what the students of Far Eastern University are truly made of, striving for academic excellence.

Truly, excellence in one’s abilities and hard work are worthy of praise and recognition. It is a testament to one’s growth and dedication. The whole IAS Community is delighted about your triumph. Once again, Congratulations to all the winners. We are proud of you.

Institute of Arts and Sciences garner awards for AY 2022-2023

MANILA, PHILIPPINES --- Different departments under the Institute of Arts and Sciences participated in different external events for the AY 2022-2023, managing to bring home several awards and bringing glory to the institute and the university.

The IAS Paragon has tallied, gathered, take note, and asked the Academic Organizations of the Institute of Arts and Sciences about the external achievements that the students have made throughout the entire academic year of 2022-2023. More specifically, the Department of Mathematics and Department of Communications have made several significant contributions to the Institute. Such contributions revolve around mathematical competitions, films, photographies, pageants, and even as far as entertainment competitions broadcasted on a national television.

Indeed, the FEU Institute of Arts and Sciences are capable of producing students with fortitude, excellence, and uprightness that seem to mirror the achivements made by these students. Whether in hard or soft sciences, films, photojournalism, entertainment industry, pageants, the IAS community will always have more to offer. Congratulations on the job well done, everyone!

19th Philippine Quill Awards

1st Runner Up School of the Year

Far Eastern University

Excellence Award and Top Award

A Dictator’s Guide to Cinema

by Lilian Marie Gomes, Patrick Pangan, Melissa Cuaderno, Khayle Venisse Dangate, Alexander Galera, Ariana Yang, Dominique Sucgang, Drink Water Rivera, Dyanne Olaes, Ian Caacbay, Janela Rodriguez, Jewel Nicole Grecia, Joyce Evangelio, Kurt Joshua Oro, Kyle Cabarrubias, Lei Sardea, Leizette Sazon, Lenon Asis, Luke John Salazar, Mar-ian Ejandra, Nicole Acadellio, Rachelle Magalona, Sophia Casasola, Tricia Mapalad, John Van Campo

Excellence Award:

Boto Mo: Isa Para sa Lahat

by Mela Rizzie E. Atanacio, Kaye Angelique S. Baeza, Joana Marie R. De Guzman Shaira Marie G. Guzman, Patricia Mae M. Hall

Pakitandaan: Misinformation Compaign for Elderly

by Lovely Joy Baylosis, John Trebor Canda, Steven Kyle Poblete, John Vernard DM. Valiente, Clark Joshua Santos, Nickey Zacate

#MoneyTalks: Building a Dynamic Youth Amidst the Pandemic

by John Henry Fajardo, Neil Andrew Juliano, Trisha Mae Salen, Ma. Sionina Martinez, Ronnel Josh Cruz, Gerwin Sevilla, Chamita Sarita, and Jesus Antonio Bautista

Speak Up: Empowering Voice’s in Today’s Generation

by John Henry Fajardo, Neil Anderw Juliano, Trisha Mae Salen, Ma. Sionina Martinez, Ronnel Josh Cruz, Gerwin Sevilla, Chamita Sarita, and Jesus Antonio Bautista

Likhang Mulat Film Movements Festival

6th DOST-Science Education Institute Indie-Siyensya Filmmaking Competition

3rd Best Film Open Category Marka ng Pawikan

by Daniel John D. Aguillon, Ralph Mari S. Castro, Anna Mikaela Ganaden, Ma. Ysabella S. Pineda, Ashley Erin P. Reyes, Ma. Kaehnna Llancze N. Reyes, Sujee S. Roj, Paolo Miguel B. Saclayan, Julia R. Simbulan, Justine Jaerigg T. Tan, Humphrey Mark Gian Franceso L. Torcuator

DAP APO Vision 2025 Photo Contest

3rd Place: Maxidy Bianca F. Sumera and team

6th Place: Milliesa L. Flores and team

7th Place: Alexia Julieanne P. Fernandez and team

8th Place: Mary Vel S. Custodio and team

10th Place: Maxidy Bianca F. Sumera and team

UP Piling Obra Vidyo XIX Siglo

Best Experimental Film Mind Body

by Josh Van Ulric Campo, Mikka Llarena, Sophia Amoyen, Samantha Ramire, Alexander Galera, Christer Vinculado

Mr Planet Universe Philippines 2022

Sashed as Mr. Planet Universe Philippines 2022

Peter Chollo Sotiangco

Idol Philippines Season 2

Top 20

Isaac Zamudio

American International Assurance Hackventure 2023

Top 30

Jet Miguel Mendoza, Cristel Kaye Billones, Marche Delima, Jan Celine Rascano, Jhon Khiel Cymon Empeno

Philippine Sports Commission - National Chess Federation of the Philippines Selection

Chess Championships 2nd Elimination

14th Place

Jet Miguel Mendoza

17th Place

Jan Celine Rascano

by

John Patrick Pangan, Agustin San Andres Jr., Angela Beatriz Macasieb, Jeicel Gañgan, Sydney Dominic Roxas

Sinepiyu XIII: Hiwaga

by John Patrick Pangan, Steff Cariaga, Melissa Cuaderno, Nino Inton, Angela Macasieb, Angelo Baluyot, Lily Gomes, Francis Tavas, Kyla Paglinawan, Sophia Amoyen Briana Fernandez, Jewel Garcia, Jazelle Gacatian, Khayle Dangate, Mikka Llarena, Alex Galera, Rora Santos, Mar-ian Ejandra, Carl Mendoza, Sam Ricasata, Sef Catangay, Karlo Magboo, Miggy Ruallo, Given Sabido, and Matt Castaneda

Merit Award:

Feminismo sa Pelikulang Pilipino

by Lily Gomes, Ian Caacbay, Matt Casteñada, Josh Campo, Mar-ian Ejandra, Nickey Zacate, Patrick Pangan, Samantha Ricasata, Steff Cariaga Bakunado, Ligtas, at Protektado

by Neil Andrew DP. Juliano, Matthew Zach P. Quino, Allysa Jade S. Monilla, Nestor G. Olleta Jr., Austin Joshua Mattew D. Sison

Call Me By My Pronouns

by Danielle Kayla Erin E. Delfin, Maniecel S. Jagonob, Juan Pablo F. Parian

Catherine Alleia R. Tabin, Kiara Nicole O. Tejero, Blessie Amor R. Vicente

Stranger Dager: The Risks of Online Dating

by Mel Janssen Fernandez, Celine Labong, Frances Kathreen Manglicmot, Honorato Jean Cedric Moslares III, Francis Lemuel Oila, Julius Palisoc, Dainty Marie Tancinco, and Johanna Valerio Frontliner’s Creed

by Carla Barrientos, Carl Philip Digno, Miguel John Ruallo, Brent Neil Uy, Elijah Joseph Velandrez Diva, Divine?

by Diann Calucin, Neil Juliano, Mary Joyce Macalia, Patrick Pangan, Matthew Quinto, AJ Sison, Francisco Tavas III

Re: Lokasyon

by Sophia D. Casasola, Aldrin de la Paz, Lilian Marie Gomes, Aristedes Lamorena Jr., Mary Joyce Macalia, Franciso Tavas III

CommWeek 2021: Game Changes: The Generation of New Media

by Neil Andrew Juliano, Trisha Mae Salen, Ma. Sionina Martinez, Ronnel Josh Cruz, Gerwin Sevilla, Chamita Alina Sarita, Jonathan Saguitan, Masahide Romas, Martin Adlayan, Paula Bronoza, and Karen Abuan

2023 Bravo Filipino Awards

Photograapher of the Year - People’s Choice: Habang Bata Pa Sila

by Karch Andrei D. Rafael

4th VP Choice Awards

Winner - BL Love Team of the Year and BL Series of the Year: Rainbow Prince by Eurwin Canzana

Welcoming the 2023-2024 IAS Dean, Associate Dean, and

Department Heads

THE INSTITUTE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES is where it is today because of the leaders that paved the way for a progressive and stronger Institute that embodies the core values of Far Eastern University.

As the school year 2022-2023 comes to an end, we want to acknowledge the outgoing IAS Dean Rowena Capulong Reyes, Ph.D., the outgoing IAS Associate Dean Genesis John Borja, and the outgoing Department Heads under the Institute of Arts and Sciences: International Studies Department Head Francis Esteban, Political Science Department Head Ildefonso Fulgar III, DPA, Psychology Graduate Studies Department Head, Ana Nelia Jumamil, Ph.D. We thank you for the passionate service for the Institute and all the best on your next endeavors.

We greet with warm welcome our new IAS leaders for the school year 2023-2024 who will be at the forefront of decision and project making for a progressive and strong IAS moving forward.

IAS Dean

Diego Jose Abad from the Department of Language and Literature Studies

IAS Associate Dean

Francis Esteban from the Department of International Studies

International Studies Department Head

Agnes Beatrice Silva

Political Science Department Head

Melquiades Acomular Jr.

Psychology - Graduate Studies Department Head

Eda Lou Ochangco, Ph.D.

The IAS community look forward to the projects and growth that the institute will experience under your leadership.

Written by Rina Grace Vizconde

FEU Psychology Society held its 2nd Pinning and Candle Lighting Ceremony

Written by Nicole De Matias

AFTER THE SUCCESSFUL introduction of the first-ever Pinning and Candle Lighting Ceremony for the batch of 2021-2022, the junior and senior psychology students of Far Eastern University looked forward as the ceremony were continued for the second time this current academic year, last May 22, 2023.

The Pinning and Candle Lighting Ceremony is a symbolic event that welcomes future psychology practitioners out into the world in acknowledgment of their competence as they embark into a new chapter in their lives. In consideration to being only the second time that the ceremony has been convened within the university, it called forth the evaluation of the said event. The outgoing president of the Psychology Society, Justine Panlaqui, acknowledges the lapses of the first pinning and candle lighting ceremony and vows to devote their efforts into ensuring a well-planned organization. Given the fact the organization of the first event felt “rushed,” she ensured that a bigger and grander set-up would take place as they wanted the students to feel that uplifting pride of a proper send-off by the presence of their loved ones and the university that honed them.

“[The goal] was to feel na grand ‘yong event [as] we hold that much importance when it comes to the students,” Panlaqui stated in an interview. “Para rin ito makita nila [parents of the students] na worth it ang paghihirap nila, ‘yong pera na nilaan nila sa anak nila. We considered that factors [in planning for the ceremony].”

As a student-led event, the outgoing administration of the Psychology Society aims to uphold the legacy of the preceding administration governed by Sean Manaloto who organized the first Candle Lighting and Pinning Ceremony after deliberations from the Student Development Office wanting to hand over the event to the Psychology Department.

“We [the Psychology Society] don’t want the Psych Department—and they [facul-

ty]—don’t want to handle it as well [the planning of the event ceremony], kasi student-led initiative siya since then,” Justine Panlaqui said in an interview pertaining to the groundwork of the pinning and candle lighting ceremony. “The reason why we wanted to push this second candle lighting and pinning kasi iniwan siya samin as the legacy of Mama Sean (Sean Manaloto, the main organizer of the first ever Pinning and Candle Lighting Ceremony),” she added. She then continued on to state that the preparations are on the approval stage as of the moment of the interview and have no perturbation for its execution.

Furthermore, the ceremony was held in the FEU Main Auditorium in comparison to last year’s ceremony at the Mini Auditorium which can be credited to the inclusion of the 3rd year psychology students. However, plans for the integration of the 3rd year students come from the decision to emigrate the event in the coming years for the 3rd year psychology students instead of sending off the students before their OJT (On-the-Job Training) during the summer term. This is owing to the fact the significance of the pinning ceremony is to solidify the core values of FEU to their students as they go out onto the field and bear the school’s logo as a testimonial that wherever they may be, they are still part of the FEU community.

“So that wherever they go for their practicum, bitbit nila ang core values in that small pin,” Panlaqui said. “Even as professionals and even after graduating from FEU, naka-instill na sakanila and Tamaraw spirit talaga. Na parang habang nagwo-work ka, you still hold the values of FEU.”

Safety measures for the event have also been part of the planning as the committee has implemented a strict minimum health protocol such as mandatory wearing of face masks and provisions of alcohol upon entering the auditorium. FAQs are to be followed, stay informed, and be updated through the FEU Psychology Society’s social media accounts for further announcements regarding the event.

Academic

Organizations

of the IAS

held its 6th IAS Parliament

The IAS Parliament is the highest-policy making body in IAS. It focuses on all 8 academic department present in IAS and to perform the legislative agenda of the in making resolutions, for the betterment of the IAS community.

A RESOLUTION URGING THE STUDENT DEVELOPMENT TO SET KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS FOR STUDENT LEADERS TO ASSURE COMPETENCE AND COMMITMENT IN LEADING THE ORGANIZATION (Principal Author: Communication Society)

A RESOLUTION URGING THE SEGRETATION OF FOOD WASTE AT THE FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY PREMISES (Principal Author: Mathematics Society)

A RESOLUTION URGING THE INCLUSION OF HUMAN RIGHTS TOPICS/LECTURES ON WELLNESS RECREATION PROGRAM (WRP), FEU LEARNING JOURNEY (FLJ), AND NATIONAL SERVICE TRAINING PROGRAM (NSTP) IN FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY - MANILA AND MAKATI (Principal Author: Political Science Society)

A RESOLUTION URGING THE AMENDMENT OF FEU POLICY ON THE LIST OF OFFENSES, AND PROVIDING POLICIES ON STUDENTS’ POLITICAL PARTICIPATION INSIDE THE CAMPUS OF FEU-MANILA AND MAKATI (Principal Author: Political Science Society)

A RESOLUTION URGING THE FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY TO SUSPEND THEIR POLICY ON ABSENSES IN THE CASES OF COVID-19 BEING THE STUDENTS’ REASON FOR ABSENCE (Principal Author: English Language Circle)

A RESOLUTION AMENDING THE FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY DRESS CODE AND WASH DAYS (Principal Author: Interdisciplinary Students)

A RESOLUTION URGING THE WHOLE FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY MANILA COMMUNITY PROPER WASTE ETIQUETTE (Principal Author: Interdisciplinary Students)

A RESOLUTION AMENDING FEU E-LIBRARY LIMITED HOURS AND REMOVING ITS COMMODIFICATION (Principal Author: International Studies Society)

A RESOLUTION URGING THE FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY ADMINISTRATION FOR THE CREATION OF A RECOVERY PERIOD AFTER A NATURAL DISASTER (Principal Author: International Studies Society)

Source: IAS Student Council Official Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/IASSCOfficial/posts/512167241118153

team won two straight games, which Glenn attributes to their team’s commendable communication skills, optimistic mindset, and eagerness to give their best every game despite the possibility of losing. However, his team struggled to set training schedules and had pending assessments to submit, which they eventually resolved by finding a specific time that catered to the availability of all teammates and still prioritized their academics. On every game, Glenn reminds aspiring students to apply the core values of FEU: fortitude, excellence, and uprightness; volleyball is a team sport, so share your learnings and have an open mind.

Lighting

the Torch of Fortitude: IAS

Sports Festival 2023

Written by Faith Tolentino

AS ONE OF the highlights for the month of April, the Lakas Ka-IAS: Sports Festival 2023 is a showcase of strength, fortitude, and camaraderie of our fellow IAS Tamaraw in collaboration with the various program organizations belonging to the IAS Department. The Sports Festival is an arena for challenging the proficiency of students in athleticism and igniting collaboration and team work. The event cultivated healthy competitions, encouraged sportsmanship, and inspired others to partake in the next festival. The event commenced from April 11th to the

15th, this year’s festival featured physical sports, including Badminton, Basketball, Volleyball, Chess, Table Tennis, and e-sports, such as Call of Duty, Mobile Legends, and Valorant.

“My motivation for joining this event is my love for volleyball,” Glenn Raye Boloche, a 4th-Year Biology Student and the Team Captain of the Men’s Volleyball Team Biology Department shared. Volleyball has helped Glenn harness his leadership skills inside the court and befriend other athletes. Now a proud representative of the FEU Biological Science Society, his

“Basketball is my hobby since childhood,” Jhorie Wencee Hernandez, a 2nd-Year Political Science Student and a member of the Men’s Basketball Team Political Science Department, revealed. Aside from being his passion and hobby, his chosen sport, Basketball, serves as his stress reliever and a way of relaxing from academic work. Representing his program as an FEU Political Science Society member, Jhorie believes that preparation was an essential tool for his team to prosper in their strengths and improve their shortcomings with the spirit of competitiveness contributing as well. Time management was also significant for his team since they were composed of students from different year levels. Nevertheless, just as Glenn’s team did, Jhorie’s team put their training schedules during their free days. Jhorie advises those who wish to participate that everyone is welcome to play, and they only need to practice and have discipline in managing

training and academics; basketball is a sport that enables players to enrich their attentiveness and interpersonal skills.

“I am just a casual player, but this [sports fest] gave me the experience to play like in a pro league,” Nico Gian Manansala, a 2nd-Year Language and Literature Student, conveyed. Nico plays his e-sport, Valorant, for leisure alongside his friends because he wishes to master his gaming skills. According to him, playing the game itself with his teammates was the best part of the festival since they provided encouragement and recognition and helped strategize invaluable game tactics. Nico regards high-ranking enemies as a challenge since they had to play the game more seriously and cut off their comms to prevent other distractions during the match. While winning is a rewarding achievement, Nico believes that players can learn from their mistakes while staying humble and being open to new ideas will aid in improving their next match.

Engaging and competing in sports is a challenging yet fruitful feat. Amidst adversities and differences, we find ourselves united for the same cause: lighting the torch of fortitude while striving for excellence and exhibiting uprightness. These games transcend the aspect of simply triumphing against difficulties, but also foster a learning curve for students to explore and discover their skills and capabilities as an integral part of their university experience. It is a testament to the talents and potential FEU students has. Congratulations to all the winners, mga ka-IAS!

Photo by Leila Dominique Tan

IAS Programs and their Stereotypes

Written by Glorienne Yzobel Broñola

NEWS FLASH: the second semester is here! The school grounds are bustling with activity and the familiar echoes of class lectures can be heard again. Hundreds of faces pass us by as we walk inside the campus and we sometimes can't help but notice the ID lace they're sporting or the insignias on their uniforms. With that being said, it's no surprise if you ever come across IAS students the most since the Institute of Arts and Sciences is the biggest institute here in FEU, holding the most number of available programs and students on campus.

We're a big bunch and that means we get people talking. In fact, we have a habit of surprising some students from other institutes when we tell them that there exists a Mathematics or Interdisciplinary Studies degree on campus. The question "what do you guys even do over there?" follows, usually ending with a "that's easy" or "that's hard" depending on the standards of the person you're talking to. Assumptions about our field of study can't be helped mainly because they're not in our shoes to experience it. We've heard them all, even from our families and strangers on the internet. Our team went around campus and asked students on what stereotypes have they encountered in their college life and gunnily enough, they can range from simply sympathetic to the most weird and absurd assumptions about our programs that have been the material for online memes and even inside jokes within the fields themselves!

A Psychology junior commented on this matter, saying that stereotypes aren't new to the discipline and she finds it funny that people think that they can "read minds" (nakakapagbasa ng isip). While Psychology students do study about the matters of the mind, they aren't really psychics so no, your BS Psych friend can't infiltrate your crush's thoughts so they'll go with you to the Concierto.

Meanwhile, a student from International Studies answered us instead with the question being thrown at them instead of a statement-stereotype: "Ha? Ano yun? Ano ginagawa niyo dun?" (What's that? What do you do there?). As previously mentioned, some

two years. How can a home die?

In thy homely halls: Where Memories Live

Written by Shannia Init | Associate Editor for Features

“IN THY HAPPY HALLS, our young hearts saw the light.”

The light we saw, was it of hope, of destruction, or both?

Once you enter school, they instantly bombard you with the saying, “School is your second home.” It is where we live and learn. But how does an institution provide the warm embrace of a home? How does a place that separates me from my house become a home?

The unfamiliar halls of FEU’s Engineering Building was where it all started. This building was a space of anxious air that filled my lungs as I searched for room number 911. Heavy breaths mixed with my own along the enclosed walls of the elevator as students’ adrenaline came to a still after walking. I remember when I reached the 9th floor, I couldn’t find the room and had to chat my classmates. I ended up going down again to meet up with them at Freedom Park. Then we took the stairs to arrive at our destination.

It was funny to me how I arrived earlier and more fresh, but ended up being haggard with the rest of the class after we scoured the never-ending stairs at nine in the morning. Room 911 then became a place of new found friends, new found enemies, and new found learnings.

As months passed by, the campus grounds slowly bosomed into something dear. Being culture shocked transformed into adapting to the Manila culture. The once unknown

faces became known, walking down the once unfamiliar paths became a routine, and the new struggles were becoming a constant thing. At the very least, these struggles were shared

Devastation roamed the land and thy halls became a house, a desk, and even, a digital screen. It was homely, literally. Students can now stay at their own houses, their own homes, as they continue to pursue their careers. Friendships and relationships are bonded over calls as lectures flow as background noise. While some are capable of surviving the homeliness the pandemic has caused, alas, homely can also mean unattractiveness. Not every place can be attuned to the feeling of a home, even if it is one's own house.

This homeliness has scattered the students; it scattered the close acquaintances who once suffered and basked together in the happy halls FEU claims to have.

How can a home rise from the dead?

After the two years of being at home, the second home opened its arms once again to embrace its scattered members. And embrace everyone did, despite the lingering virus that was declared to be dormant. The fresh feeling of a new beginning enshrouded the campus grounds like a sweet scent of sampaguita. Finally meeting online friends and physically existing together with long term friends sparked thy happy halls from the ashes. Still, there are those who wander in solitude. who long for a better experience.

I therefore question: can this space still be considered a home despite feeling down, feeling unhappy, and feeling envious?

people are often unaware of certain programs and some of us are often met with looks that seems to say "Did you made that thing up just now?". However, we are 100% sure that students from International Studies, Interdisciplinary Studies and Mathematics are real (we're not sure about the mysterious figures you see during night classes, but we might include them for our Halloween special). This isn't to say that stereotypes are harmless and funny. While the weirdness of these assumptions are laughable sometimes, they have a tendency to invalidate individual struggles and perpetuate discrimination by assuming someone's capabilities as a person, not to mention it belittles their passion for something. Perhaps one of the most crushing things you'll ever hear from someone outside your program for it to be called "tapunan" or "bagsakan". The students we asked from BA Communication and BS Medical Biology share the same sentiments with the stereotypes people tell them. These terms are derogatory in nature and hurts the students who have dedicated the best of themselves in the field they've chosen. To be called a "tapunan" or "bagsakan" implies something is being discarded or unwanted when the same cannot be applied to humans. All you need is one look at your classmates to notice this, that their perseverance at something despite college being hard for everybody means something. Stereotypes are not tantamount to what a person is and assumptions don't make them less of a useful citizen, anyway. These stereotypes aren't exclusive to strangers or people outside our programs. In fact, we might be guilty of stereotyping our fellow Tamaraws as well. We need to watch our words or else, our intentions to make other people laugh can lead to them being hurt. Going out there and meeting other students from different fields helps too, and who knows you might even find yourself making friends with the info exchange! Finally, we bid adieu by telling you how we are a big bunch of dreamers and we shouldn't let these stereotypes affect the way we view ourselves and the things we do at the end of the day.

have a year left to collect precious memories. Little did I know, Room 405 of the Education Building realigned the fragments that I once lost. Most of our classes were held in that room, but less of us remain. Even then, this small group of people reignited a hope. Despite there being little time left, this home within a home created its own memories filled with chaos and exhiliration. It invented new friendships, strengthened bonds, and stored activities of being productive and being lazy together. Written on its white board were lectures; written on its four walls were fruitful conversations shared within classmates and professors. Although brain racking, I never would have thought that analyzing, theorizing, and thinking with the class could become something worth remembering. The once unfamiliar has become familiar. It has become a garden of bygone memories, etched within roots, sprouts, leaves, petals, and branches of trees. FEU is a faraway home. Anyone can find their own rooms, hallways, buildings, and spaces that constitute bonds never before seen.

“In thy happy halls, our young hearts saw the light.”

with those you are acquainted with. However, there are times when hardships are faced alone.

Cue the pandemic: when loneliness dripped onto our foreheads instead of sweat from the summer heat while being on campus. In the middle of March 2020, classes were suspended for a week because of the spreading COVID virus. Students rejoiced, but that joy they felt turned into ruin as weeks turned into months and months turned into years. Classrooms shifted into digital spaces. Thy happy halls ceased to exist for

It was strange to me how a home can have many tenants.

It was scary to traverse these halls alone as every other person belonged in groups—in homes of their own within a bigger home. I struggled to find the home I found back then, for everything turned different from before. Room 911 no longer exists. The friends I have met have turned into fragments; they have turned unreachable to me. It all spiraled from the unfamiliar to the familiar to the unfamiliar again. In the blink of an eye, I only

The light we did see—whether it be of hope, destruction, or both. College years are definitely one for the books. These years have written themselves into our brains and etched themselves within our veins. Moments form and coalesce between pages, the good, the bad, and the boring. If the pandemic didn’t happen in between, more experiences could have added to the multiple conflicts, climaxes, and conclusions of our stories. There could have been more and there could have been less. Nevertheless, goodbyes are always inevitable after every hello. From room 911 to room 405 to different grounds, may these memories break our fall as we leave thy homely halls.

SOMETIMES across deep nights, when all the sound heard is silence, when nothing really is deep enough to be thought through, and when everything is supposed to be just fine, I can’t help but suddenly ruminate—what difference am I making in this vast endless universe?

Back then, I used to think simply. Simple as thinking that I don’t have to dream big to feel a sense of fulfillment. Over the course of time, I felt the need to look for a deeper purpose why I should aspire to be somebody.

It led me to dream of becoming a Pilot, a decade ago. I wanted to fly high, literally and figuratively. I wanted to explore the world

On a verge of existential crisis

Written by Alexander Galera | Executive Secretary

and make people’s eyes up on me as I travel my way through the air.

Years after, I was inspired to be an Architect. Someone who can build homes that can be castles and havens for people who’ll live in them. Turning ideas that people can only imagine into life and be admired in his craft, became the resolve I was after. Then, college went. I pursued Communication. Firm with the advocacy to help others and change the system. Blissed and full of passion, I thought I could use my films, writings, and talent to make an impact. And so I did invest in it. Extremely! Perhaps, it’s just an ambition. Maybe an absurd one. But all these years, I’ve been shaped

to be the main character of my story—and an impactful one in others too. It may possibly be the reason why I try so hard to put my energy into academics regardless of burnouts kicking in, to have an opti-

On progress

THESE DAYS, it seems as if time waits for no one. Even when you’re relaxed and sitting under the shade of the freedom park’s narra trees, it isn’t hard to ignore that everyone around you is still

moving—moving forward, that is. Everyone’s got places to go and there’s always something to worry about later that there are times

mistic outlook in spite of negative circumstances, and to act all kind even with infuriating occurrences.

Am I doing great? Probably yes? But am I content? No. But maybe I wasn’t because I have always been doing things for others in the thought that it may have a grandeur impact on their lives. Maybe in between those thoughts, I lusted after recognition. Fathoming all these thoughts, I’m only starting to realize, those are not me.

In between trying hard being deep in all those times, Little did I know that something has never changed in me. I always find joy in seeing people's smiles as my small-scale deeds make their day. I

Written by Glorienne Yzobel Broñola | Features Editor

when someone might feel guilty for having a quick break. This guilt isn’t new to students and it’s often a topic in the university’s online communities. Some expressed their worry about not being able to catch up to friends leading successful lives in college. We also see students regretting that they had to stop for a year and lose not only connections, but their drive to study. Then there’s also people who feel that they’re not making any progress with themselves at all. When you’re surrounded by go-getters, it’s easy to feel inadequate for any signs of slowing down But what if we told you that there is progress in slowing down? Or stopping?

When a person runs for a long period of time, we think that they are bound for some rest before they continue. When they trip, we also expect them to stop for a while and check if they’re okay. If they get lost, we understand if they have to slow down and ask for directions or look for signs that tell them they’re heading the right way. We don’t discount these things as part of the journey; they still are and we think they’re very much needed. To us, we still see it as progress because you’re still on the road. The moving part isn’t the problem here, it’s where we look that makes everything different. Life isn’t a race, so looking at things that way changes how we react to our own growth as a person. We have to stop comparing each other’s progress because

Unspoken gratitude

FOUR YEARS in college comes by like a wind. Student life is short lived when you’re having fun, that one dreading subject can be finished before you know it. Whenever work assessments keep piling up, it challenges us and our potential. This made us question our capabilities as overthinking is our best friend and doubt keeps crawling in. It is the perfect time where we curse with all our might, frustrations become our validity for the emotions we cannot contain. As we continue doing our assessment, it cannot be avoided to express our exasperation to the ones who made it. It is unavoidable to have a love-hate relationship between our teachers but we shouldn’t forget, Parents are meant to raise us, while teachers are meant to guide us in life.

As early as I can remember,

always find a sense of fulfillment in seeing others succeed too, no matter how big or small their achievements are. I find happiness in simple matters, thinking that those pure things are actually what keep us alive. Maybe I am unsatisfied, on the verge of questioning my life choices, because all this time, it wasn’t the real dream I ought to have. I used to think simply, and I used to be happy over genuine simple things. And maybe that was the realest me after all. Maybe it’s time I make a difference within myself first by becoming myself first Maybe,

it’s something individual to a person. We don’t get the same starting points or running shoes in this life and it’s completely understandable, it doesn’t make you less of a person.

Then again, this is not easy to do. College life is all about chasing time and weighing options. We also have to admit that it’s not nice to get stuck in one place or enter a period of stagnation, so all those feelings about guilt and progress-envy are all valid. If there’s one thing we can at least do, it’s to not shame others for how they chose to pick themselves up and move forward. We shouldn’t shame ourselves for doing the same thing. We don’t need anymore reminders of the fast times, the “adults” around us are already doing that so we owe it to each other to be kind and reassur-

Written by Angelica Louisse Mercado | Managing Editor

I have heard the phrase “teachers are your second parents in school” numerous times. Throughout my life, it made me wonder how they can be like our parents? Seeing them in a short limited time until we hear the bell rings. Then we wait for the next subject, looking closely as the clock ticks, awaiting for the break time to come, not knowing the impact they hold for the students. Then it struck me that sometimes students find comfort in the teachers. Somewhere within the four walled classroom, an individual is looking forward to opening up their problems or sharing their stories to the teacher. Amidst the chaotic and tiring student life, there’s always going to be someone who would see our potential and push us into greater heights.

All those curses, and frustrations will never be the same again for those teachers who believed in us

especially in times where we’ve run out of reasons to believe in ourselves. Hearing the words “You’re doing great”, “I’m proud of you” and many more hits different coming from someone whose grades determine our value. It crashes our wall of selfdoubt by boosting our self-esteem. They have no idea how simple words can turn the tides for the students.

I appreciate our little interactions, may it be in the hallway or in the classroom. Greeting you as I enter the classroom and bidding you goodbye whenever I leave, brings an unusual feeling of sadness and happiness awt the same time. Gratitude is not enough to express our appreciation to each one of you. Within the short time we have spent, looking forward to attend-

#TowardsTheTruth

ing your class excites me because talking with you aside from lectures alleviates my wholebeing. Sharing stories with you about life or academics brings a comfort in me, as it becomes an assurance for me despite the boundary as student and teacher, I have someone to be my confidant. I have someone who can point out my flaws and blatantly tell me how I can improve. It awakens my drive to strive harder as the truth hurts. These past four years, as we look back from the future, we will carry out the lessons you’ve taught us and for the memories we’ve made. Your advice will become an oath that we will keep in mind and an affirmation that we will fulfill. Expressing our gratitude for the time we have spent in those classrooms or online is not enough to show how much you mean to us. You serve as our compass, whenever we get lost you

ing with our words because who do we have in this unfamiliar part of our lives but our fellow students?

Perhaps we should treat life as one big freedom park where we can acknowledge that everybody is doing their own thing. We look at where we are as of present. We thank the shade and the wind. We thank the friends who sit beside us and their delightful company. Sometimes, we even thank the noise around us for filling moments of seemingly lonesome silence. Life isn’t always going to be like this, but it’s nice to think of it as such sometimes. It’s nice to say, “I am here. I will have to leave but not now and it’s okay.” After all, it’s how we look at where we are now that we know where we will go next.

are there who will bring us back to

our rightful destination. Our parents in school who guided us to become a better version of ourselves, we bid our goodbyes since closing out this chapter of our lives is an embodiment of your preparation for us. Hoping that one day, in the near future, as you look at our achievements we have made you proud.

Providing DisarmingPerceptions Deceptions

it’s time I dream for me.

LEADERSHIP IN AN academic institution is already a big challenge— leadership amid a large-scale crisis is an even greater one. But these unprecedented times are also the times that great people step up, just as the English proverb says, “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.”

The past four years have been a difficult journey for the student body, with the pandemic stifling the normal learning experience they could have enjoyed. This is the same for the entire educational stakeholders, who all collectively suffered from its aftermath. In many cases, institutions are forced to shut down, impeding the dreams of many students and the means of living of many school staff. However, despite the seemingly unwavering series of unfortunate events, there were those who doubled their efforts to battle against this uncertainty.

Dr. Rowena Capulong-Reyes, commonly referred to as Dr. Wen, is one of the living proofs that determination is an integral key to putting collective dreams into reality and overcoming adversity. Since 2019, she has

Written by Alexander Galera |

been the Dean of the FEU Manila’s Institute of Arts and Sciences, making her not just witness but lead the transition to the “new normal” setup for the IAS community, and even its return to face-to-face classes. Her leadership has clearly been tested in time: a testament of resiliency—in a time it is needed the most.

As many have known her, she is one of those exceptional breed of communicators that inspires her students, teaching staff, and colleagues with her positive attitude, strong interpersonal capacity, and diligence in her craft. Within her Deanship, her qualities translated into her works as she made remarkable projects and social advocacy pursuits that benefitted and brought pride to the entire IAS community.

Just last year, she was appointed as the Executive Committee member of the Asia-Pacific Communication Alliance (APCA), bolstering the image of FEU in the international landscape.

Also, last November 2022, Dr. Wen headed the 1st FRAMEwork: Asia Pacific Conference, a conference aimed to provide a platform for scholarly works

Artistang Tamaraws, Onward!

Written by Rudolph Philip Lacson

THE FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY has long been an avid patron of the arts. From our campus’ iconic architecture style, to the many prominent figures that have roamed our grounds before they hit it big, cultural contributions have always been one of FEU’s pride. However, the pandemic halted much of the activities of the various cultural arts. Now, as in-person classes have begun anew, our talented tamaraws are bursting with anticipation to showcase their abilities in the arts. Several groups and organizations are actively working in order to bring color back to the post-pandemic cultural landscape of our happy halls.

The FEU Center for the Arts is composed of seven cultural groups, each highlighting different aspects of tamaraw talents. The FEU Bamboo Band, FEU Chorale, FEU Drummers, FEU Dance Company, and FEU Drum and Bugle Corps shine in the realm of music and dance. Typically, they may be seen performing for various events, taking part in competitions, or hyping up crowds in arenas for our athletes’ gamedays. Meanwhile, members of the FEU Theater Guild showcase their acting prowess through productions done throughout the year. Just recently, they concluded a successful run of Halu-Halo, composed of ten one-act plays divided into two sets, as a commemoration of their 89th year. Finally, as the entrance exam season begins, the FEU guides are becoming even more active than before, with their knowledgeable

Legacy and Resiliency:

The Deanship of Dr. Rowena Capulong-Reyes in the FEU IAS Community

by Leila Dominique Tan

within communications and other related disciplines using alternative communication frameworks. This was one of the notable undertakings that elevated the importance of research at FEU in the time of Covid-19.

Dr. Wen also made a promising reputation for being decisive and involved when the subject matter concerns the welfare of the students. Apart from catering to the concerns of individual students to make compromises, she has been described to be ever-supportive on the various initiatives of the Institute’s Student Council to help the IAS community have a better learning journey in the face of the pandemic and even after it, as how the new IAS President, Chelsea Sioco put it.

Furthermore, along with the support of Associate Dean Genesis Borja, Dr. Wen has also helped champion the causes of the IAS’ inclined institute organizations. For instance, even the IAS Paragon, our home organization, can testify to it. The organization’s General Assembly last February—guesting our homegrown alumni—has been made possible with both their aid, empowering our student journal-

ists to keep using their capabilities in strong, informed, and purposeful journalism.

Dr. Wen and Mr. Borja’s backing to physicalize the newspaper print for the IAS Paragon is also worth acknowledging for, as it enabled our student publication to provide a platform for our student journalists to express their ideas, creativity, and truth. And more than that, it also paved the way for another means of information dissemination for the institute besides the organization’s conventional online publications, as strongly pointed out by our very own Editor-in-Chief, John Robert Sanchez.

Perhaps, these achievements, her unique capacity for understanding, and her fervid support to the IAS student body can be attributed to her years of personal experience in teaching, an adept background in the field of communications, and her passion for cultivating fortitude, excellence, and uprightness.

As she bids farewell to the Deanship of the FEU-IAS community to be the next Vice-President of Corporate Affairs, Dr. Wen’s feat as a Dean will always be carved in the heart of the green and gold history. A legacy of a lifetime. A herstory.

members hosting campus tours for future Tamaraws. Surely, the rich history of our campus’ Art Deco buildings, as well as the pieces of artworks by prominent artists are being given the right attention that they deserve, thanks to the guides.

Besides the organizations under the FEU Center for the Arts, there are countless others that nurture homegrown talent. From Institute to University-wide organizations, many groups are ensuring that the Tamaraws’ pride are constantly upheld and showcased to audiences not just within the campus, but on wider scales beyond that of our halls. During events, one would normally be able to watch diverse groups and individuals perform song and dance numbers to bring entertainment. Moreover, it is not atypical to witness students and organizations busking in areas within and surrounding the campus in order to gather funds, or simply to show their talents to the Tamaraw community.

All in all, it is a pleasing sight, seeing how the arts and culture within the campus is alive and kicking, despite the blow that it took during the pandemic. After all, it is but human nature to have the desire to create, to showcase, and to express, and the FEU community has never been one to shy away from doing so. With the local scene slowly getting back up on its feet following the pandemic, the Tamaraws are definitely at the forefront of pushing the boundaries of arts and culture.

Mission

IAS Paragon, the official student publication and magazine of the institute of arts and sciences, commits in bringing the latest and purest stories driven by truthfulness, fairness, and excellence.

IAS Paragon informs, fosters, and engages students in their own institute through truthful correspondence.

Vision

IAS Paragon aims to be recognized as a sole, genuine and independent center of excellence for campus journalism, within the institute and the university, as well.

IAS Paragon strives to be a symbol of fairness by upholding the right of freedom of information, speech, and expression of all ias students.

Browse through news, opinions, features, and literary pieces on our Facebook account: www.

fb.com/IASParagon

Photo

Worse, so far

Written by Abraham Deogracias Jr.

AFTER ALMOST A YEAR since the restoration of the Marcoses in power and the extension of the reign of the Dutertes, the Filipinos remain at the receiving end of this political circus. According to a recent Pulse Asia poll, the President and Vice President have strong approval ratings, with 78% and 83%, respectively. Other high-ranking officials also obtained favorable ratings. Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez praised and commended the administration's work, describing the proposed national budget as a critical aspect in streamlining necessary policies. Romualdez, on the other hand, is an obvious administration ally, even benefiting from the expensive Singapore Grand Prix under the pretense of developing international ties. Data from a small-scaled sample survey and the allies’ pat on the backs of the son and daughter of former dictators mean nothing when looking at its stark contrast to the material conditions of the masses.

Educational institutions are a part of society. As a result, when looking at the reoccurring difficulties experienced by university stakeholders, they might be linked and related to societal concerns. The tirades of students on heavy traffic and difficulty to commute reflect the transportation problem in the Philippines. The worries of students on the increasing prices of food and basic necessities reflect the economic challenges faced by the greater society. The dissatisfaction of the students on the quality of education they receive and the discontent of school personnel in their salaries reflect the education crisis. The growing cases of student leaders arrested, charged of crimes, and harassed reflect the persistent repression of the state on dissenters and critics.

Regardless of how eager the state is to dominate the media and release propaganda to cover up their ineptitude, these actual and existing challenges cannot be ignored. If progress is being questioned, one must first ask: advancement of whom, exactly? The public as a whole or the ruling few?

Exacerbating economic problems

Despite the administration's constant promises to fill the void left by job instability, unemployment, inflation, and other economic issues, these alone will not meet the people's needs. Pulse Asia revealed statistics disclosing Filipinos' dissatisfaction with the Marcos administration's handling of inflation, which is a major worry for the majority of Filipinos. The administration's approach to the 14year high inflation rate of 8.7%, which inevitably raises the cost of living, is anti-poor. Despite having little to no specific understanding in the field of agriculture, Marcos Jr. designated himself as Secretary of the Department of Agriculture. Thus, his declaration of the necessity to hasten the importation of local goods, despite farmers' opposition and explanations of why it would affect the local sector, is a smack in the face to the people who till the land. An agricultural country with a president who does not listen to farmers is like trying to put two unrelated jigsaw pieces together.

The second most pressing priority of Filipinos is increasing worker compensation. The barely livable minimum wage — P570 in Metro Manila and P470 elsewhere — cannot keep up with growing inflation. Jeepney drivers are among those who regard the administration's policies as a glaring divergence in addressing economic difficulties. The contentious jeepney phaseout under the pretense of PUV modernization largely impacts jeepney drivers and operators who struggle to make ends meet on a daily basis. This does not stop with the drivers; it has the potential to

Editorial Board

Editor-in-Chief

John Robert Sanchez

Associate Editor

Camille Lorraine Ramos

Executive Secretary

Alexander Galera

Managing Editor

Angelica Louise Mercado

News and Editorial Head

Rina Grace Vizconde

Features Editor

Glorienne Yzobel Broñola

Associate Editor for Features

Shannia Init

Literary Editor

Ann Jahazielle Suyod

Associate Editor for Literary

Jhunie Balignasay

Chief Photographer

Frances Beatrix Aquilizan

Associate Editor for Photojournalism

Leila Dominique Tan

Associate Editor for Layouts

Adrian David Cariaga

News Writers

Hailie Tolentino

Micah Janea Salud

Nicole De Matias

Faith Tolentino

Eryl Cabiles

Audrie Sophia Cabacaba

Opinion Writers

Abraham Deogracias Jr.

Joyce Ann Zulueta

Chelsee Anne Yamsuan

Margareth Relevo

Feature Writer

Rudolph Philip Lacson

Literary Writers

Sarah Monique Quintos

Ellah Briones

Denise Angel Pepito

Jan Clarisse Lingon

Sofia Romas

Jose Ybarro Lim

Chloe Madlangbayan

Marcus Bryan Ares

Marian Macadangdang

Aicy Rheel Octot

Bob Capio

Juan Miguel Enriquez

Wendelle Naval

Ariianna Sjaiira Pimentel

Krista Mae Ocampo

Nicole Camporaso

Candace Cruz

Desiree Gorospe

Graphic Artist

Mikee Bigornia

Pamela Medel

Photojournalists

Cedrique Mistosamente

Marc Rayleigh Francisco

Jaden Gozon

paralyze a large portion of the economy, with people unable to get to work. Indeed, a policy that is put in place without consulting the public is doomed to fail.

Stomping on human rights

Filipinos are not only plagued by economic hardships, but they are also at risk of human rights violations. With Marcos Jr. in charge, the culture of impunity that emerged during the Duterte government endures. His claims of withdrawing from the International Tribunal Court (ICC), which tries to investigate the brutal drug war, is a strong indication that he is impeding justice. In reality, his refusal to allow the ICC to probe his predecessor is his method of maintaining a culture of impunity in which those who should be held accountable go unpunished.

From June 2022 to March 2023, the UP Diliman's Third World Studies Center's Dahas initiative reported at least 234 drug-related fatalities. Aside from this threat, the normalization of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict's (NTF-ELCAC) red-tagging ploys puts human rights advocates, journalists, activists, and students at risk. FEU student leader Joanne Pagkaliwangan and Gabriel Magtibay of UP Diliman were arrested with unjust arrest and detention without proper grounds of violations on April 11, after striking a lightning rally in front of the US Embassy to protest the growing presence of US troops in the country and the start of the Balikatan Exercises. These kind of incidents, together with the danger of reintroducing the bloody mandatory ROTC program, are evidence of the relentless human rights violations.

Repainting the image one at a time

Many articles, studies, and reports had been written and published at this point that chronicled the horrors under Marcos Sr.'s governance, but it bears repeating: it was not the Philippines' Golden Age. Martial law era included fabricated charges, tortures, disappearances, unlawful incarceration, and unsolved deaths. This is an established truth; to claim contrary is an act of deception. Now, during the presidential election, the number of social media marketing consultants, or trolls, has increased. They were paid to manage false accounts that spread fake news in order to advance the political campaign of the politician who hired them. Their effort during the campaign season contributes to a candidate's victory. Many TikTok clips, YouTube videos, Facebook posts, and other social media entries have been revealed to include incorrect claims, unsubstantiated arguments, and outright lies that smear the Marcos family's image. As a result, the predominance of disinformation systems indicates that it is a purposeful act, with adequate financing and a detailed strategy.

To back up this argument, Marcos Jr. has stated the motivation behind his desire to enter politics. During the World Economic Forum, Marcos emphasized that he

intended to defend his family's name, not just for his father's legacy, but also for the survival of his family. Knowing how many inhumane acts were done under his father's rule, with people who definitely did not survive, saying such a thing takes a lot of nerve. Given that his presidency is founded on a desire to clear his family's name, it is reasonable to expect echoed retellings of previous events that fit his narrative. The goal now is to avoid falling into their traps.

Transforming grief into revolutionary courage

The aforementioned difficulties barely scrape the surface of the social maladies that have worsened in the Philippines since the Marcos-Duterte pair took office. One can only imagine how difficult it must be for underprivileged and exploited Filipinos. This type of crisis generates oppression. Oppression generates resistance, this resistance will soon turn into strength and power. This is best demonstrated by the week-long jeepney strike by operators and drivers. They sacrificed their source of income to make a statement that they will not be complacent in the face of injustice. Following the strike, the administration agreed to review the PUV modernization program and postpone the date for the phaseout of conventional jeepneys. This is not the desired outcome, which is to officially suspend plans for jeepney phaseout, but it is still a step closer.

Another example of local collective action is when FEU students conducted a demonstration inside the campus to commemorate the 50th anniversary of martial law. Three student leaders faced charges of "subversion" and threatened with expulsion. These threats did not stopped the students; rather, these moved them to forward their calls. Later on, the charges were dropped and many Tamaraws rejoiced for the victory of their collective action. This is where we see how an educational institution may function as a microcosm of the actual world. Filing a complaint against the students, despite the fact that the students are celebrating a historical event that the institution recognizes, is a typical form of repression used by the state. The youths fighting back represent what the people as a whole could do: channel their anguish, grief and rage into collective action that results in change.

Since the beginning of the Marcos-Duterte government, there have been no reprieves. No matter how hard the individuals in authority attempt to minimize the condition of the Philippines — by employing their insidious techniques — Filipinos are not detached from what is happening on the ground. History has shown that collective power can overthrow a dictator, and with the immense problems that Filipinos are currently suffering, it is only a matter of time before a similar situation unfolds.

Illustration by Adrian Cariaga

COLLEGE is a challenging journey, for a student is vowed to face adjustments, struggles, and adversities all throughout their stay. While they are expected to work towards their goals, to survive, and to thrive, it is hard when they are being exhausted and left with no choice but to continuously adhere to protocols. It leaves them with very limited time and energy to focus on honing their potentials. In Far Eastern University, where promotes a student-friendly environment, it is their duty to listen and resolve their students’ grievances, which include the infamous Wellness Recreation Program and all the other arising dilemmas the students are subjected to.

The Wellness Recreation Program was established to ensure the healthy living of the Tamaraws. It offers various physical and indoor activities that the students can choose from. Physical activities include basketball, volleyball, badminton, strength and conditioning, and the like, while indoor activities are board games, poetry writing, instrument playing, and so much more. This program is taken by the students each year, including the ones who are taking their on-the-job training while they are taking up online WRP activities. This curriculum may have been working since pre-pandemic; however, the purpose of WRP, which is to promote a healthy lifestyle, turned 180 degrees as it brought stress, frustration, and anxiety to students due to the fault in its current system.

One of the discrepancies that the students experience in taking the WRP is the constant glitches in the system. Words such “JSON,” “Error,” or “You are currently not enrolled in WRP,” are words that have been frequently seen by students when they try to book for WRP classes. Even if the students go to the app to book on time, they are faced with glitches that are beyond their control. It only adds up to their stress of not being able to

TAMplifying the Voices of Tamaraw

Written by Joyce Ann Zulueta | Photo by Leila Dominique Tan

book activities that will fit their schedules, and the striking anxiety of not reaching the minimum number of hours to pass WRP. Other issues in the system such as multiple bookings in a day and no cancellation button are also struggles that could be resolved if the system would be open to suggestions and improvements. The students also heed for additional slots for the Manila Campus, as the provided classes fails to cater the student populace, leading to students not being able to book when they need to. In connection, there’s also ask for more indoor activities to cater students with medical issues. Most WRP activities left during booking days are physical activities, leaving those with medical restraints little to no choice but to book in order to get the needed hours. Aside from these, it is also excruciatingly distressing for students to see fellow students hoard WRP hours, leaving fewer and fewer slots for those who are running behind the quota. There have been attempts to improve the system, but there’s not a concrete plan in place that puts an end to the physical and mental toll that the fault in the WRP system exudes. Due to these unwarranted circumstances due to the fault in the system, the students undeservingly reaps the consequences. As a result, some of them fail to comply, leading them to fail the class, which then revokes their capacity to be in the Latin honors or even on the Dean’s List. It brings hassle to these students as they have to take WRP again in the following years and during summer classes. Collating all these fac-

tors, WRP defeats its purpose, and becomes a counterproductive measure that does not provide wellness to the green and gold community. On the other hand, students are not

just ranting about the WRP but also other arising issues within the university. This includes ensuring the safety of the students, especially those walking at Recto and Espana after their night classes, which usually end between 7pm and 9pm. The administration should also once and for all resolve the continuous cases of violations of sanitary protocols within the stalls in Tayuman and all the other cafeterias inside the campus. If they really think of their students’ health, these matters should not be endured for a very long time. In line with violations, the university should also pay close attention to faculties and maintenance workers that prac-

tice harassment towards the students, making them feel unsafe in thy happy halls. And with the recurring pressure of being at the top, it is also a time to remind FEU’s core values, which include uprightness, that it is slowly being forgotten as the cases of cheating in any courses at the university are increasing in numbers without equal repercussions towards the student perpetrators. And above all else, when all these and other unmentioned issues are too overwhelming for the Tamaraws, it is topped up by the administration's lack of urgency to resolve them and act for the betterment of their students. With these issues in mind, it is a must for students to be part of such discussions, as it is crucial to help one another. Be vigilant and responsible towards other students and urgently report issues they encounter to the professors, the academic organizations, the institute student councils, the FEU Central Student Organization, and the Student Development Office to address the sentiments of each student. It is imperial to help others, especially those who are struggling to survive college. As we strive to finish another academic year, may these problems be addressed and given proper action, as we do not want them to persist as the new wave of Tamaraws enters the university. A student-friendly campus equates with a competent administration that provides resolutions to student bodies and hears their students’ grievances. The students, faculties, maintenance workers, or admin, should always uphold the Fortitude, Excellence, and Uprightness the Far Eastern University swears to uphold.

TAMS Never Go Out of Style: Decoding the FEU Dress Code Policy

Written by Chelsee Anne Yamsuan

CHOOSING WHAT TYPE of clothes to wear has been one of the top priorities that people have these days, from picking what to wear to for gatherings and even outfits for running daily errands, there’s a powerful feeling in being able to curate your look and in a sense, feel represented of what you are wearing.

People wear what they wear for different reasons and for different occasions. At times, their clothes match the event they are going to in order to fit in, which is mostly the case in a university setting. Specific standards or expectations are set for students to meet to uphold the institution’s image through implementing school attire guidelines. However, does the existence of such a policy actually help in keeping the “professionalism” between students, or does it somehow restrict their creativity in expressing themselves through clothing?

In educational institutions, students act as its embodiment that can either add up to their good reputation, or the other way around. Such representation is being maintained and regulated by school administrations through imposing policies. Dress codes are mostly implemented to promote uniformity and safety among students, as well as to highlight appropriateness to the image that the university wants to exude, like value and formality. This rule has enforced the idea of what proper clothing is suitable for the learning environment. It also imposes discipline among learners. Moreover, having a uniform look in the academe helps students to focus on their students instead of stressing over what to wear or being conscious about their appearance. It protects students from discrimination or prejudice for how they look, although

it has not always been the case. As what is observed, despite the logical reasoning behind the implementation of a dress code policy, there’s no denying that there are underlying issues concerning exclusivity and suppression of expressivity present in this kind of system.

Far Eastern University (FEU) Manila is an institution that implements a dress code policy. Many of its students have questioned how strict the past regulation is, along with the connection of dress code to the learning proper. While most school admins believe that such guidelines put emphasis on the task at hand, which is to learn, there are also positive manifestations if students are given the liberty to choose what they want to wear. If students are confident with what they wear and happy in their own skin, the act of dressing up gives them an empowering glow and increase in self-esteem, which allows them to focus more on their studies. Aside from this, creativity is being exercised among students by choosing their fashion style or simply dressing up, which can be associated with academic creativity too. This is what the recently implemented new dress code policy gave to the FEU Community: not only a spark of fresh ideas which they can apply to the academic setting but also the liberty to express their identities more through clothing. The institute has been known to embrace diversity and with this, it gives students more liberty to express who they are and shine through it. With the new dress code policy wherein Tamaraws must wear their respective institute polos or FEU shirts every Monday to Wednesday while civilian attires are allowed from Thursday to Sat-

urday, a new door for the students’ expressiveness and inclusivity has been opened. Given the wide variety of clothes added to the attire that students can wear on the scheduled days, it seemed that they were granted more freedom to dress how they want to, in line with their sense of individuality. So far, the new policy has been much better than the past one that can be considered strict and conforms to society’s conventional or conservative norms. Since the Green and Gold Community has always rooted for inclusivity in all aspects, progressing from this kind of dressing culture appeared to be more convenient for the students. It is in consideration of the issues that they faced regarding uniform stocks,

its slow processing, and the unclear provisions in the policy before which caused hassle for some who allegedly violated the dress code.

The new dress code policy of FEU may not be celebrated by everyone, reasoning that the “professionalism” that the students must be practicing inside the university is slowly slipping away. It is impossible to please everyone, but the new policy shows that freedom of expression and creativity is being practiced in thy happy halls, while still upholding the university’s values. It is an era where you can express who you are through clothing, you can let your creativity shine while you thrive while studying.

Illustration by Adrian Cariaga

THE STUDENT BODY will exercise their right to vote, and they will elect leaders who will stand up for the community and will hear their collective voices, and this shall be embedded in the minds of the incumbent and aspiring student leaders. Before the end of each year, a university-wide student election is held at the FEU to help incoming student leaders create, plan, and execute their platforms to help and benefit the Tamaraw community. To be a student leader bears huge responsibility, as it is their duty to rally the concerns of the green and gold community and be one with the collective concerns of the students and forward them to the university administration.

The campaign period serves as a way for students to know in-depth about the candidates as it would serve as a factor if they are well-suited and commendable to be elected in their desired positions. During this time, aspiring student leaders would

extend their connections to spread their advocacies, disseminate their platforms, and share their achievements. However, the campaign period is also when past issues involving the candidates become relevant. The past academic election raised many concerns and involvements, including allegations regarding the candidates' credibility, on which the involved individual immediately addressed the concerns. Still, it became a tool for discourse around the community. How potential leaders address issues about them and how they handle the pressuring during this period is a factor that helps the students to observe and choose the kind of student leaders they want to be led by. The election season have the capability to bring out the best and the worst, and so it is imperial that the FEU Community keep in mind aspiring leaders’ character, advocacies, integrity, and poise throughout.

The elected student leaders for the AY 2022-2023 braved

the odds in fighting for the betterment of the Tamaraw community. As the university officially opened its doors to all students, the student body underwent adjustments. It has created many concerns that the incumbent student leaders

On FEU Politics and Election: The end of a period and the beginning of an era - what aspiring Tamaraw leaders shall embody

Written by Margareth Relevo

have focused on and consistently coordinated with the administration to achieve solutions—whether neglected or addressed by the administration. However, there have been numerous attempts to put the hate on these leaders despite their efforts in pav-

ing the way to gather solutions.

As the academic year is officially nearing its end, it is time for the Tamaraw community to elect leaders who will serve the whole student body for the upcoming year. In the following weeks, Tamaraws will witness campaigns where platforms will once again be laid down, and candidates will give promises to win the hearts of the student voters Whichever partylist dominates the results of the upcoming election, students must always keep in mind that not all concerns would be addressed and fixed by the elected leaders. Although they have the capability to use all means that are connected with their positions, it is important to remember that the students who will be elected are also students like them, hence they still follow what the university has mandated. However, it is also necessary for aspiring leaders to always keep in mind that running for the student government is intertwined with

Kill them with kindness

Written by John Robert Sanchez | Editor-in-Chief

accountability. They are accountable for serving the community, and must keep in mind that their purpose for running is to fight for the student's rights and bring changes that would benefit the Tamaraw community as a whole. Student leaders must never forget that if we are eager to express criticisms to our country's leaders when we observe that the welfare of the Tamaraw community is being neglected, then they must remember that their fellow students also have the right to demand the same level of accountability that they are asking in our government. Whether candidates are eyeing a seat in their respective departments, institutes, or the central student government, candidates shall always be accompanied to bring betterment to the university rather than for the betterment of their resumes, and students should vote wisely for a better and progressive Green and Gold community.

SKILLS AND TALENTS could only take you so far. Pair those with kindness and you could even reach the skies. But what happens when one only has claimed kindness, yet has no capability to lead the public? Who do you run to when things get hard? Moreso, who do we run to now that things are hard?

Everything costs a fortune these days—simple meals, vegetables, fruits, even ride home is expensive—but it’s fine, as we have been promised that the “golden age” will once again bring glory to the country. Little did we know, everything will be turned to gold; not with its metallic value, but only being comparable to how expensive everything is. But do not fear, they reassured, for as long as people are together as one, everything is possible in this country. Yet employment rate is low, inflation has never been this high, and crimes have never been this creative over the years. What do we do about it, then? We gaslight ourselves to work, be grateful, and be kind to

the government, as kindness is more necessary in this country than providing assistance and concrete plans to the people. These are evident in the last election. A candidate being nowhere to be seen during events that aim to discuss their plans for the country gets scrutinized by some people but is defended by many. Because holding people accountable is seen by many people as negative thing, and Filipinos do love defending the “victim.”

Turns out being perceived as the victim will only prove beneficial to fit a certain narrative—that they are good-hearted people, despite historical and current facts to prove otherwise. Such traits are not related to leadership at all, but it is the gentleness and the sweet talking that won the votes—hearts and minds!—of the many. For these people, it is the ability of a claimed leader to rise up above their own enemies by choosing to ignore challenges, to focusing on the good of their own voices, and

to promote the collective identification of one another. Despite the lack of operational plans for the country, so long as there is goodness “within” a person, then that is more than capable of being a leader. Not even a year later and we’ve seen drastic economic changes in the country. Flash news: it’s not looking good. One could argue that economic downfall of the country is inevitable due to years of different degrees

of lockdowns, but how about the promised glory of the country? With how such promises are conveyed, with gentleness and reassurance that the public consumed without second thoughts, when do we see the promises touch the lands and sea of this country? When can these people finally have their sigh of relief as they meet the golden promise of the future?

On the other hand, progressive individuals with vocal dissatisfactions on the current state of the country are always perceived negatively in this country. Entitled, self-centered, greedy—these are some of the things that such individuals receive by the public. Despite the evidence-based dissatisfactions from the current state of the country, there will always be groups of people that will refuse to acknowledge out of the box and thought-provoking criticisms of the country and such people will resort to ad hominem and irrelevant counterarguments just to further reject such dissatisfactions.

It ends with us

Written by Rina Grace Vizconde | News and Editorial Head

Which is ironic, because it is evident in social medias that people who support gentle leaders are the very same people that resorts to such ad hominem. Over the years, people have rejected progressive individuals.

No matter the advocacy, if Filipinos have seen any hints of aggressiveness on their approach to advocating for their own truths, such as questioning political figure, joining a rally, etc., then these progressive individuals along with their advocacies will be downgraded to mere noises, their potentials blending in the crowd, until eventually, it fades away.

Yet it is the opposite that Filipinos choose to listen on: the gentle sound of empty promises and the calming impossible reassurances.

SINCE THE BEGINNING of time, procreation and creating a family is the expected path to follow for adults. Some might argue that it is one of the very essence or purpose of humankind, to bring life unto the world. However, in an ever-changing world and in a modern era – tables are turning and perspectives are shifting. It is unrealistic to expect young adults to be all smiles and just follow through with a linear path that they are expected to take. Afterall, people in this day and age have different concerns and aspirations, and they are carving their own path.

In earlier generations, women are given a timetable for the perfect age to have kids and marry and when they don’t, they are labeled as “spinster” or “old maid”. In a traditional family, it is expected for women to marry early, bear kids, and focus on household duties, while men are expected to provide for the family. Previous generations are boxed

into the notion that they must marry and create off-spring, because it will determine if they are considered to be a successful or happy individual. It is also a way to ensure that bloodline will continue. The idea of not having a children and not being married had a negative connotation before and it could be argued that it is one of the reason why older generations pursued this path – because it is the path that they know, the path they’re told to take.

As for the younger generation, there are many individuals who opt to not get married and have kids – and they’re not being ridiculed or pressured as much as the previous generation have been. Today’s generation have been given the liberty to be vocal and assertive of their own life. In a 2022 research, 46 percent of the current generation’s population don’t plan on having kids, while only 37 percent intends to, and

with 17 percent being undecided. Young adults do not simply plan on not having kids without a reason, though they certainly can, but they have expressed a varied,

raising a kid and giving them a quality life and great education is expensive. It would require a lot and is not something that everyone could afford.

Fear of passing down generational trauma or other mental health issues.

There are a lot of young adults that are still healing their childhood trauma and are dealing with mental health issues, and it’s not something that they want to inflict unto the next generation.

deeper, and justifiable reasons and worries worth considering.

To start off, it is financially challenging. with economic instability and rise of inflation,

It is physically and emotionally challenging to give birth. For women, there are different risks and implications that parenthood entails. Acknowledging that they’re not ready to raise a kid or be a parent, knowing that they are allowed to make different choices, prioritize different endeavors, and take a different path – that’s a great sign that perhaps there will be less cycle of generational trauma that will persist.

That perhaps becoming more aware and learning how to deal with their issues before embarking on a lifetime journey of par- enthood, it will give rise to parents and children that is susceptible to a healthi- er and nurturing home. People are born with a need to be loved, understood, and accepted. All are deserving of a healthy, loving, and nurturing environment and responsible and committed parents. Unfortunately, that is not the case for everyone. Hence, instead of booing young adults that are aware of what they are not prepared for and are deciding for themselves, they are worth celebrating for; celebrate them and their pursuit of ending vicious cycles and go on a journey of self-discovery and healing. If it ends with us means less unplanned parenthood, less neglected children, and more responsible young adults – perhaps, it ends with us is good.

Literary Our Beloved IAS

by Arrianne Sjairra Pimentel & Krista Mae Ocampo

From Struggle to Strength: Overcoming Life’s Hurdles

Written by Sarah Monique Quintos Ellah Briones

AFTER WHAT FELT LIKE AN eternity of social distancing and lockdowns, the world slowly began to awaken from its slumber. The once-empty streets were now bustling with life, as people emerged from their homes and greeted each other with open arms. The air was thick with a sense of relief and gratitude, as people savored the simple pleasure of being in each other's company again.

Families were reunited, friends were embraced, and strangers exchanged smiles of recognition. The world had been starved of human connection for too long, and now it was finally being nourished again. But despite the joy of these reunions, there was a sense of unease in the air. The pandemic had left its mark on everyone, like a scar that refused to fade. People had grown accustomed to the stillness of their homes, the silence of the streets, and the solemnity of the situation.

They had learned to find solace in the small things, like the comfort of a warm cup of tea or the beauty of a sunset from their windows. They had discovered the value of taking care of one another, whether it was through volunteering or simply checking in on a neighbor. And yet, despite all of this, many had suffered immeasurable losses.

Loved ones had been lost, jobs had vanished, and the sense of security that had once been taken for granted was now gone. The world may have emerged from the pandemic, but its impact would never be forgotten.

Especially to the students who have been struggling as schools and universities closed down and classes moved online. Now, as the world began to recover, they found themselves grappling with a new set of uncertainties.

"I can't believe how different school is now. It's so weird to see everyone wearing masks and sitting so far apart." Elisse groaned while talking with her friend, Shara.

"I know right. It's like we're in a completely different world. But we have to do our part to stay safe and healthy," Shara remarked as she smiled back at her.

These two students had to deal with the emotional toll of the pandemic. Many had lost loved ones, suffered from anxiety or depression, or struggled with the isolation of remote learning. The pandemic had left an indelible mark on their mental health, and returning to school only added to the stress.

"It's been tough not being able to see my friends or go out like we used to,” Elisse sighed as she faced Shara. “I feel like I've been missing out on so much."

"I feel the same. But we have to stay positive and focus on what we can do. We can still connect with each other, even if it's online or from a distance," Shara immediately replied.

Elisse was a social butterfly before the pandemic, and it feels so sad for her that she wasn't able to bond with her friends like they used to. Shara, on the other hand, adjusted easily to the transition of pandemic. But it doesn't mean that she didn’t feel the same impact. She just chose to have a positive mindset and hope for the world.

Despite these challenges, they persevered. Students have adapted to new ways of learning and found ways to connect with each other despite the distance. Teachers and school administrators worked tirelessly to provide support and resources to help students succeed. But the challenges continued. Some students faced technological barriers with inadequate access to computers or internet connectivity. Others faced financial difficulties, with families struggling to make ends meet due to the pandemic's economic impact.

"To be honest, I can't afford to buy all the school supplies I need now. My parents lost their jobs during the pandemic, and things are really tough right now," Sharah added.

Students were determined to overcome the obstacles and continue their education. They understood that the pandemic had changed the world, but they were committed to moving forward and building a brighter future. The same goes to those who supported them, especially the families who continued to strive for their sons and daughters who still go to school virtually.

The virus surely arrived like a fullon storm, silencing everything from its arrival and leads according to its will. At first, it seems humans will follow through with its plan with one particular person caught within it. Yet, they were the split of change from the flow that brought deviation from the normalcy created by forces beyond our control and comprehension.

From the start, the student’s world had already stopped even before the world did. One

Intellectuals with astonishing minds, guiding us to the light, Nurturing passions, giving wings to our flight, Sowing seeds of knowledge, cultivating them with care, Taking us on journeys, beyond the realms of the ordinary, rare.

In the home of humanities and the empirical sciences; Together with a diverse group of people breaking the silence, Unleashing their potential with braveness and passion while, Taking part in various fields and academic fashion, Emitting wisdom that yields mastery in action.

Opportunities will be bound in every direction, Fostering curiosity and intellectual reflection, Artistic expression and scientific exploration, Reality shakes as we promote innovation and creation, Transforming students into leaders of their generation, Shaking the ground as we, scholars, seek illumination, A

ll these training and activities fall under one institution, Navigating the world with newfound inspiration, Developing a mindset of lifelong education. Sipping coffee and grabbing biscuits while called for attendance, Chinking highlighters on papers while reading, we take up the stance, Instilling knowledge from human experiences and emotions, we advance, Embracing language and communicative responses to enhance. Numbers and letters make up the context of our state, Creating new solutions, projects, and ideas to legislate, Empowering students to explore and demonstrate, Savor the moment, we are scholars and we will accelerate.

could say it was another day for them as society tries to come by. Little to none interactions were made with each other when you’re outside and inside you have to take precautions as well. Distancing, going digital and silence were nothing new to the introverted child. However, a bit of difference was present in their surroundings which led to their unsuspecting transformation.

As young as the student is, they are

bound to be influenced by the inevitable forced process of metamorphosis whether they like to or not. Starting with waking up until they fall asleep and everything in between going through their life. It was unnoticeable at first but it showed gradually with the days passing shortly and the nights getting longer. Their world is being washed up along the tides while unknowingly causing ripples. They set-up the

computer to start their first day of classes.

“Don’t worry, it will be like going online when playing or surfing through social media, you know.”

They assure themselves, because who wouldn’t convince themselves everything will be alright when they have to interact with more than one person, in some ways without a choice. They’ll go through this session like every other one hoping it will all be over in a flash. Their feelings gulping up and overlapping their insides, they await for a glimpse from the other side of the screen. Lo and behold, they were one of the first ones to appear in the meeting. It was awkward at its finest. Simple “hi” and “hello” were exchanged as they thought it would be the end. How wrong were they? The supposedly simple greetings turned into frequent ones, slightly longer conversations until they burst out laughing. And then silence came.

Then, they thought to themselves, ‘Isn’t this like my online meetings with others?’

They quickly latch onto the thought, thinking nothing will go wrong with this kind of mindset. It was fun for a few months until it turned into a year. And they were in the face-to face phase. They finally met, and awkwardness ensued at first like back then but the same old interactions did. They were laughing, talking and having fun! It was way more different from their usual meetings.

“You know, unlike when we were chatting online you seem much happier,” a friend of theirs said.

“How so?” The student replied.

“You were pretty shy at first, I mean I was too, but yours was on another level,” they joked.

Their group went on babbling on the little things they picked up from the student like how their greetings grew in numbers. Some were even more chirpier than the last they recalled. Their friend also learned the likes and dislikes of the student, which some were not even known to the said person like how their talk of heights bothers them so much. How they seem friendlier than they initially thought. More and more comments were poured out until the student was embarrassed to the point of no return. They were shaken by the revelations made. They seriously didn’t know about it. Their friend noticed this and commented on their reaction, “This as well! You hardly make any expressions when we’re talking online but now you’re flustered in more ways than one.”

“No,” the student realized.

They were never like this. A sudden argument took place in their minds. The individual debated what they’re facing was a slight momentary reaction, it was bound to fade away. They were wrong again as the feeling of glee persevered throughout their interactions. The feelings they denied are starting to resurface and become true. For what is the reason to feel if you deny it any longer?

They changed, and they will admit it now. They are different from before. The moments where the screen lights up began to morph into seeing their friend’s face. The blank and dull white boxes were filled with blooming gardens of words. The long nights where it was dark and waiting until the sun woke up turned to short nights covered with smiles. Little by little, slowly but surely while everything stays in new ways.

Like the characters in a storybook, they faced numerous occasions where they might gain or lose virtues during their journey. Humans also face the same. The three years lost, the time that cannot turn back, loved ones being taken for granted and many more. Oh how the world yearns for time to return. But what will be gained from staying still and yearning?

Time cannot be stopped as time moves forward. It is a relentless force that everyone has to abide by. But also with time that humans get to learn more than what already existed. During this season, compassion and empathy appeared like it was something newly discovered in the world. Today, people managed to feel it. It swirled inside until it burst until it could spread to others. Who could have thought we could stop and bring a smile to someone’s face, All in a short while as well?

With what happened in the previous years, it sparked and burned the dark and dreary path. We lost our old selve, the ones who cries and hopes for nothing. We gradually grew until we tried touching the light of another and passing it along the way. Courageously, our once weak self stood up to fight for the rights against the injustices faced. We are the characters in each storybook, the main character, the supporting or the antagonist. And like them, we will stay and change.

Freedom Park: A Place to Breath

by Denise Angel Pepito

Library: In A Quiet Place

by Jan Clarisse Lingon

Hallway: After a WeekendLong

by Sofia Romas

Grandstand: Here we stand today

by Jose Ybarro Lim

Lover’s Lane: Here at the Lover’s Lane

by Chloe Madlangbayan

Pavillion: A Memory Keeper

by Marcus Bryan Ares

Morayta: Finding Home in Morayta

by Marian Macadangdang

Recto: Where you’ll find everything

by Aicy Rheel Octot

#KwentongFEUSeries

by Literary Team

Look up, the midday sun is dancing in the blue sky.

Eyes down, there’s the summer grass swaying with the wind.

Listen now, cheers and babbles of the students passing by. Stop here, chapel’s open wide for your peace of mind.

Walk along, flaunt your style for everybody to

Rushing to the door, sliding into a quiet space, Fidgeting around, wary of the time and its pace, Writing down here, highlighting there, Wondering how much a single mind could bear.

Soft laughter echoed as turning pages lingered, Then a shushing finger whispered in the

The professor ends class and doors open, Students of various programs flooded the halls, Eyes looked tired, appearances are unkempt, Such are greeted by gentle yet colorful walls, With clusters of chattering and smiles as ornaments.

T’was only yesterday, that we dreamt about, Of stepping foot once more on this grand staircase, Under a scintillating sky, and bring back times past.

Who knew just how painstakingly slow time can pass?

But before our eyes can close once more, Reality astounds us with a revelation: here we

Looking back then, it didn't change at all. Your smile, my adoration, this place, And a million moments I still recall.

We sit there, on the bench as always, Listening as you hum to your favorite song,

If this city would ask me how am I doing, It would be a joke to say I don't like you

Under its curved and sturdy ceilings, Many have bid their hellos and goodbyes. In its shade, tears of joy and sadness, Were shed and shared–with people we knew.

Many gatherings full of memories, old and new,

Walking along Morayta streets as I sigh with relief, And memories of the pre-pandemic life begin to hit.

I cannot help but think a lot of things have changed, Students and everyone else now wearing

Outside of FEU’s gate two, The sound of busy streets will greet you.

A place where you’ll find everything, From street foods to books, to anything. The people there seems to always have a smile, A happy avenue you should wander for a little while.

see.

Rest then, closed eyes were under the dappled sun.

In thy happy halls, a reminder that you are free. Rocks, where promises and manifestations are written in, Cats wandering off in their cuddly form is endearing,

corner, As glaring eyes fade into the unknown of their businesses.

Friends, partners, classmates, groupmates — you name it, Some are sleeping, dreaming, shifting into their seats,

There, Diane stood in the corner, proud and tall. Confident she was prepared for whatever will happen.

With her phone in hand, she kept herself busy, As she waits for the classroom to be emp-

are again.

Like melodies of souls long separated now reunited.

As an ocean of green and gold drowned the earth anew, There’s the mighty grandstand that holds its bulwark of values, Filled with young minds–waiting to be un-

anymore.

As it plays, while the people walk past us, I saw you, looking so tender and sweet. But I also knew your feelings are unmoving, For there’s no way for our hearts to meet halfway,

Were created, molded, and made its history, And as usual, the clock still ticks by.

Many students have waited for each other, With talks of academics or gossips, For their respective classes to begin and

masks, But cheers and laughter are found once again, Everyone's just trying to reignite the bond, Oh, I can’t help but love how they all sound.

And nightlife in Lerma’s so witty and bright. Morayta brings joy, washing away all the sore,

Recto welcomes people like me and you.

Unfortunately, the bustles were silenced for a minute, When the strike of a deadly virus almost killed its spirit. Reminiscing about the place so alive even at night,

Music plays in the distance as they dance and spin, Memories captured in the twinkling eyes respiring, Indeed that freedom park stays true to its throne. Still, the place where our souls are at liberty, Still, the place where our souls are not on one’s own.

Focusing on similar goals, all eyes on screen, Tapping into keys when words could not vomit. Will the pending works ever come to an end, When the air-conditioned room cannot even mend,

As these fellow students, fending for themselves?

tied, Blockmates noticeably review lessons in summaries.

The quiet atmosphere piqued her curiosity, She looked around and then panicked, Tapped a classmate on the shoulder, "Hey, aren't we moving on to botany?"

Realization hit her as she heard these words: "We will. Next week."

leashed.

Gone are the days of reminiscing and melancholic haze,

For this is the time that we take our rightful places.

As here we stand today, with courage, intelligence, and integrity, Let’s fulfill our evergreen destiny and make golden memories.

And just like this place, I'm still just a friend to you.

Still, remember at all times, whenever you need me, Go find me and I'll be here at the lover's lane.

end.

And while huddling close to electric fans for comfort, They rest their tired eyes with minutes to spare.

Just like that, hellos and goodbyes will go repeat,

For the good and the bad get drowned by the lights.

One day, these things will become memories, As they’ll become a part of our academic life, One day, believe we’ll manage to pass the test, Within the Lerma streets, we fought and survived.

A gentle reminder that everything will be alright.

It’s been almost three years since the disaster made us suffer, But the show must go on, as this is far from over.

Remember that Recto is a place to come back to.

Fresh Navigator

Written by Wendelle Naval and Juan Miguel Enriquez

Walking through those university gates, hearing the class bell go off, as multiple stories of students unfold every single day. There will be occurrences that memories from freshman year will appear out of nowhere. However, it is important to figure out how the journey usually starts for our freshmen students, the challenges they face, and how they act in light of said challenges.

To navigate a foreign environment after being released from an enclosed space certainly requires a rigorous period of adjustment. The COVID-19 pandemic did not merely deprive people of creating and sharing blissful memories with their loved ones, it also enabled a few to be extremely challenged in adjusting academically and socially. Furthermore, the complexity of college life–a topic that is very much talked about in the academe–may either make or break an individual.

A new environment, unfamiliar faces, and an unforeseeable series of events–frightening as it may sound, these are not meant to be deemed formidable. A new environment grants individuals to explore various places while also opening themselves to the possibility of unleashing their fullest potential and understanding social diversity. And college is also about living in the moment. To think of what has not happened yet will just add more fuel to the fire–take a break once in a while and do what needs to be done as this will be a pivotal instrument of success.

With all the praises of what college life is, and how the journey will forever be memorable to every student, there will always be downsides to every story. Learning to adjust to either a new environment, interact with different kinds of people is an experience that is quite familiar to every college student. In addition to adjusting to the people we interact with, freshmen students also have to get used to their new schedules. From quickly transferring from one building to the next, waking up on time, avoiding traffic, all these kinds of setbacks are related to one’s time management. In relation to this, sleep deprivation becomes a challenge, continuously working non-stop on academic responsibilities, completely ignoring self-care becomes detrimental to one’s own health. Starting college also indicates that one would have to keep track of all your expenses, as financial stability is a big deal for the majority of college students trying to save and earn money for their studies, or for their family.

Although college isn’t all fun and games, it certainly isn’t misery and nightmares either. There will always be instances that students would get to experience the highs and lows of studying in college. Freshman year is an opportunity for many to truly define themselves and solidify the path they want to pursue in the near future. No matter what they may face, either good or bad, these are just building blocks that will create one’s own masterpiece as they continue to push through for better education.

In the latter part of one's formal education–from choosing which degree program to pursue, cruising the highs and lows of life, and finally harvesting the sweet reward of unsung dedication–college is absolutely a worthwhile experience.

I WAS BORN A PERFORMER.

Just like everyone, maybe. I have been to many places where light would always be directed at me. If you would ask me what I am capable of, well, I am of many things, mostly positive; or so the audience says.

This is my life, the stage was my whole world. My sole purpose in life was to act in front of a crowd who would notice my every move.

One day, I had the opportunity to perform in a city. It was surreal because it was one of the cities where culture was rich and flourished, and such opportunities were only given to those of the fortunate and skilled. And for a performer like me who was born less fortunate, was then allowed to stay there. Immaculate. I had promised myself that I would dance, sing, act, and do practically anything if it meant being able to remain there. I may have exaggerated myself at first, but truthfully I am not talented. I just knew enough to please the audience, that is what I have been doing to survive.

That was how my every day went since then–until one day, nobody came to my room. I entered the place completely silent, but I noticed words appearing on the wall. Strange because words would usually appear when I am about to perform.

“Go to your capsule, dear actor. You may continue your performances there in the meantime.” It read.

A capsule emerged from the middle which I usually claim as my stage. Without question, I walk inside and find myself in a small room. The door behind me automatically closed shut. It was complete with daily necessities–a bed, materials to use for

Or so the audience says

Written by Ann Jahazielle Suyod | Literary Editor and Jhunie Balignasay | Associate Editor for Literary

my future performances, and a screen I assumed I would be facing when I perform.

As if nothing’s changed, I continued my performances. The room felt isolating as I realized that there wasn’t anybody watching me perform. They were all there still, but remoted, as suggested by the walls. Perhaps they were situated on the other side of the screen, unable for me to see them; although it felt quite peculiar to be told to perform without an audience.

Yet still, if it meant performing like this to survive, I’ll gladly do so.

But in this now seemingly lonely room, a plant emerged from the ground one day. The only thing that was different since I stepped inside this place.

To be honest, I felt relieved. Time was meaningless in this room, and I still had no idea why I was stuck inside. It was only a little recently that I realized that I couldn’t open the door from the inside. There was no way out and I’m stuck here performing for who knows what. I found solace in talking to the little plant at that moment.

Eventually, I notice its growth and I finally discover its true identity to be a sapling–a baby tree! I’ve harbored mixed emotions about it since the more it grew, the more I realized how long I have been stuck in here. At that moment, it doesn’t matter whether I can have a flower or an animal around the suffocating capsule.

Days turned to months. And more than a year has passed, and I kept counting in my head. And there’s the tree, always waiting to get its sunlight and water. Maybe it’s the

only thing that takes me away from the stage or the capsule. As it gives me something else to do, besides the usual–the life I’ve been living for decades.

One time, I noticed that the tree was changing. As my performances would occupy my time and the screen in the capsule was still the same, it was as if my consciousness was focused on what was in front of me. I thought things stay the same as long as you keep the same routine, but that doesn’t work on everything, on everyone. It felt lonelier as it withered. The tree helped me to keep breathing, in a world full of walls and concrete. And so, I have to return the favor. Little by little, I made time to keep it from dying. For the first time in years, I’ve put all of my heart and soul into the one thing that gives me a true purpose.

After all that hard work, the tree grew beautifully. It took quite a while before I was able to do something worth being proud of. Out of all things I’ve done, not only it became my company but it was the best thing I have.

All of a sudden, its outgrown roots and branches may have damaged the capsule. I was so prepared to get scolded by someone outside but I saw nothing. Nothing was written there, but an arrow was left on the wall. I noticed how it was strangely put near the window where the sunlight came in and was giving its blessing to the tree.

I opened the capsule after a few weeks of staying there. And the tree’s roots and branches complete-

Written by Camille Lorraine Ramos | Associate Editor Illustration by Pamela Medel

EVERYONE SEEMS to be so busy now that the academic year has officially concluded. Of course, some joyous students are now having their vacation and spending their days like there’s no tomorrow—there are those who applied for a job to earn money while on vacation, there are those who are also enrolled in the midyear term to catch up with their curriculum, and last but not the least, there are also those who wished they are leaving the university with their diplomas on-hand.

While they talk about taking and exchanging graduation pictures with each other, having their toga fitting together, planning an after-graduation trip, changing their profile pictures with the caption grad-waiting, and many more, you are still having a hard time facing the reality that you are a delayed student, especially in a university that is looked down upon by many people and students from colleges. Sometimes, though wrong, you can’t help but think the people around you are being insensitive to your situation especially if it is someone close to you.

If there is one skill you earned, that is, by acting like you are happy for them without feeling a pang of jealousy. You pretend you have already

accepted the truth, but in reality, your heart is being torn apart and it is yet to heal.

It wasn’t easy. Overthinking became a hobby. Being on social media is

ly shattered the glass, and then the screen of the capsule, and then the walls. Even the curtains from the stage, which I was so used to looking at before, were torn into pieces. And after booking the chaos, I found

hausting. Comfort becomes a weird feeling and hard to request, or more like can’t be requested when you are surrounded by people disappointed at your academic performance and journey, and when given, there are instances you would feel mocked instead. Line such as college is not a race is not helping. You know for

yourself that is a fact, but the majority in your community sees it as a false statement. You will be judged negatively and be compared endlessly to the people who are better than you. You experience the phase where you begin to question your capabilities and skills all while simultaneously comparing them to your performance during your elementary up to senior high school days was never not an option. You began to question why out of all people, why were you the unlucky one to experience this misfortune. You did your best and you did everything in your power, but why was it still not enough for you to be given one thing you wanted the most in college which is to graduate on time with your peers and to make your parents proud? Only if you have studied harder, you won’t have to repeat a course or forcibly shift to another program. If you are financially stable, you won’t have to take a gap year. If you are mentally stable, you won’t have to drop a course to prioritize your mental health. If you choose the perfect and right program

something interesting about the place. It’s all surrounded by vines, trees, and plants. The greenery was so blinding I’m not used to it. And there, my tears started pouring–out of happiness. I saw how beautiful the world is. No matter how scary, it can be at times. The world still finds a way to make life more interesting and fun.

With my company, that’s what I found outside. And it’s just like a landscape coming through the screen.

and university on your freshman year, you won’t have shift numerous times to know what truly is for you. There are a lot of what if’s, but are you really to blame in this situation?

Don’t be eaten by negativity. There are no scientific studies to prove that delayed students are unsuccessful, or lesser than other people. Just imagine yourself playing a game at your own pace to avoid experiencing burn-outs, and not being pressured by other players to catch up with the latest storylines and quests as every player has different choices on what to do in the game as it is own account. That is how a life journey in college goes. Each of you has different circumstances and paths to take, but there are no wrong turns in every journey, just an additional boss level you must conquer to ascend to a higher level.

Be proud to say you are brave enough to accept what’s for you and what’s not for you.

Won’t be questioned. Won’t be looked down on.

Capio

LIGIP ni Bob

Sa ginhawa ng hangin ngayon sa aking pag-akyat, malamang mas maaliwalas pa ang pakiramdam kapag nakatungtong na ako sa itaas. Mabuti at hindi ko hinayaang pangunahan ako ng takot kahit na may pangamba ako bago magsimula.

Hindi madaling alisin sa isip ang nangyari sa mundo. Ang mga kalye ay pinupuno ng mga sipol ng hangin at nagsisiksikang katahimakan. Nahubaran na ang mga lupang binihisan na pinaghirapan ng ilang taon. Nawalan na ng saysay ang asul, pula, puti, at dilaw sapagkat nalugmok na sa kadiliman ang bansa.

Ilang dekada na ang lumipas ngunit mariing nakatatak pa rin sa aking isipan. Napakadaya lang na kami pang mga nasa baba ang nakararamdam ng bigat ng mundo, ang malubhang pagkalat ng sakit na Rakono. Na kapag nahawaan ay minuto na lang ang itatagal. Hindi makatarungan na ang mga may pakana ay nagpapakasasa sa itaas na bunga ng kasuklam-suklam na panlilinlang.

Inakala na kasi ng lahat na nasa kanila na ang solusyon - bakunang maghihilom sa nasugatang buhay at kinabukasan ng taumbayan. Ngunit, pekeng gamot lang pala at ipinagdamot nang tuluyan ang mga tunay. Mga batong puso na hindi tumitibok para sa

ang kulay ng kan’yang mukha. Sa pagsampa ng aking kamay ay ang tagumpay na aking hinihintay. Nanginginig kong inaangat ang aking katawan na senyales ng lubos na kagustuhang makapaghiganti. Malamang p’wede naman akong huminga gayong hindi naman ako nahahawa ngunit ayaw kong magkaroon ng tsansang mapalagay sa panganib ang aking buhay at hindi magawa ang aking ninanais.

Kakaiba nga ang buhay ng mga naandito sa taas. Payapa, masaya, at walang kinatatakutang kamatayang nag-uuli. Makintab ang bihis ng bawat imprastraktura. Malusog ang mga kapaligiran. At ang pinaka maganda sa lahat, malayang nakakauli ang mga tao. Kung hindi nila kami pinabayaan at pinagdamutan ng pag-asang magkaroon ng maayos na buhay, mapapasama rin kaya kami sa buhay na ganito?

Kung hindi sila naging makasarili at hindi nagpalamon sa mapagmanipulang kapangyarihan at pera, buhay pa rin kaya ang karamihan sa mga nasa baba?

Naandito na ako ngunit, nagmamasid pa rin sa paligid. Ligtas dito at maliligtas ako. Tutularan ko ba ang taglay nilang kasamaan o pipigilin ko na ang plano, tulad ng pagpigil ko sa aking hininga para mabuhay?

bayang pinaglilingkuran. At nang nabisto, mga nagmistulang mangmang. Hinahanap ang susi na nakakubli sa kanilang mga kamay.

Sa sobrang bigat ng mga alaala ay bumigat na rin ang aking katawan. Kailangan ko munang huminto ng ilang minuto. Hindi pa ako ganoong kabihasa sa ‘di bago ngunit nalinang na abilidad na kilalang-kilala sa mga katulad kong uri. Kung dati ay 13 minuto nakatatagal na hindi paghinga, ngayon ay mahigit tatlong oras na ang tinatagal.

Nakakatakot ang talino ng sakit na ito. Sa pagtindi ng init na ang sakit ay dapat malusaw ay natuto pang mabuhay sa bagsik ng araw. Hindi lang nakatatagal sa nagbabagang mundo kundi dumidikit na rin sa kahit anong bagay, mapatubig man o mapahangin. Wala na talagang makakaligtas, miski face mask o face shield ay walang k’wenta.

Kailangan ko na ulit magpatuloy sa pag-akyat. Ako na lang ang pag-asa ng mga kalansay sa baba. Mahirap man dahil sa talas at gaspang ng mga batong hinahawakan na siguro ay kapag natapos, daig ko pa ang makalyong palad ng masisipag na mangagawa. Pero pipiliting kayanin, kaya ko pa naman magpigil ng paghinga.

Naalala ko lang. Kung dati ay tinataboy lang ng karamihan ang mga kauri kong nanlilimos sa lansangan para lang makaabot sa kinabukasan. Ngayon, dinaig pa namin ang katibayan ng katawan nilang lubos na iniingatan ang kalinisan. Kung nakayanan ng sakit makasabay sa paligid, nagawa rin naming pantayan ang kagalingan nito. Hindi na lang kami sa tubig nakapagpipigil ng hininga kundi pati na rin sa lupa. Umalon man o lumipad ang sakit, nakahanda ang aming kalasag.

Akala ko nga kakaiba ako. Nilanghap ko ang simoy ng Rakono pero walang nangyari sa akin. Inakala ko na ‘imortal ako, ngunit nadadala lang pala sa loob. Nalaman ko lang ito nang may nasilayan akong munting batang mariing dinadaganan ng Rakono ang dibdib, naghihingalo. Tinulungan ko siya sa pamamagitan ng pagpapasa ng hininga na aking pinigil.

Ngunit naging tulay ako para makapasok ang sakit sa kan’ya at mas mapalala pa ang kan’yang kalagayan na kalaunan ay naglaho

If only the quill could wish

Joyce Ann Zulueta, Nicole Camporaso, Candace Cruz, & Desiree Gorospe

If only the quill could wish, The words will never be amissed, A verity trying to survive, In a world that eats it alive.

As the warriors of wisdom picked up the debris, We are silenced through numbers and prejudice, Too young to strive, But only the young can swim and dive.

We are wronged with deceit and age, Prisoned us in rooms with a lie and a cage, Sinner for truth; lover of just–The children of tomorrow with broken dreams and trust.

Walked in dim light of patronage, Like a torch, fiery and outraged, The only call we want to voice! Give us life, and offer us a choice. They are respected by everyone, Like how writers protect integrity–but it’s gone, And is done by their treasured family, Who questions a journalist’s reliability. Writing is a journalist’s love and hope, Them patronizing fake news is how they cope, Questions your capability as journalist, And then treats you as their antagonist. Family is like building a complicated puzzle, The search for the right piece is a struggle, Like every journalist’s chosen path and story, This, our battle that would go down in history.

You are an advocate to fight fake news, And it starts in this place, and to bigger venues. While they ignore voices, you push through, The fuel to this life-long commitment starts with you.

Who are they to rid our liberties?

The rights we have long sought, Assassinations and uncertainties, Threats of violence, I dread not.

Not as much as ignorance, The chaos in the absence of truth. Perpetrators of blind obedience. Tainting evidence, oh, how uncouth. My home, I do hear your distress, Still, I shall persevere with necessary risks, To write and capture without bias, And gradually paint reality with deeper frisks.

Exactly who am I to be this bold?

But a daughter - a journalist on hostile ground, Empowered by principles to uphold, With democracy standing and unbound!

Amidst' the battle on reportage's liberty, A chapter was deprived of amnesty, For this is a memoir of a certain loss, A memory haunted by a sorrowful ghost. Woe to the fate of the writer's testament, As it's an entourage for freedom and development.

Serves as a parade through crucifixion, Of a soul who wrote until destruction.

Sorrowful heart filled with painful regret, Due to a quill that revealed mysterious secrets,

Of a lost essence who wants resurfacing, Agonizing past who deserves reminiscing. Commiseration for the civilian’s spokesperson, So let’s fight for independence from our family's prison.

A wish of a quill to be extricated from society.

Let’s practice the power of utmost inclusivity.

Illustration byMikee Bigornia