Kapawa Online Newsletter Vol. 6 No. 6

KAPAWA

Edited by Ma. Avrille Marquiela C. Loraña and Andrea Kirstin D. Ramirez Photo Courtesy of Office of the Vice President, Aeson Baldevia, and The Official Facebook Page of Senator Bong Go

THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE - SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL VOLUME 6 NO. 6 | DECEMBER 2020 - NOVEMBER 2021

GALVANIZING. Supporters of candidates for the 2022 National Elections bring hope as they host motorcades around the province.

“More than 600 [vehicles came], we just had to ask others to turn back because we wanted to keep disruption to a minimum,” Negros Occidental Vice Governor Jeffrey Ferrer, an outspoken supporter of Go, shared in an interview with Rappler in light of the unforeseen show of alliance for the Senator’s candidacy from Negrosanons in their motorcade on Nov. 6.

In like manner, patrons of the Leni-Kiko tandem stepped forward to organize their own stationary caravan, lining the Bacolod-Silay Airport Access Road with pink as they paraded

Sophia Nicole C. Dayao

the color to welcome the Vice President and her running mate to the city on Nov. 5.

“We only had five days, our invitations were [sent] just through Facebook, but many showed up. [...] This shows their strong support for Vice President Robredo,” Pinky Mirano-Ocampo, spokesperson of Laban Leni Negros Occidental (LLNO), stated in an interview with SunStar Bacolod.

By the same token, Arcelle Braganza, Vice President of the High School Student Council (HSSC) of St. Scholastica’s AcademyBacolod (SSA-B) and an active member of Negros Youth for Leni, was one of the

Undas 2021 brings lower crime rate to Region 6

volunteers who used her platform to speak for her advocacy and joined the caravan.

“We, the youth, have been given the privilege to use our voice in echoing out hope for the betterment of our country’s future. No one should ever feel embarrassed to speak up [...] because [...] we too have the right to be heard,” expressed Braganza when asked about why she campaigns despite her ineligibility to vote.

Likewise, many other minors who are unqualified for next year’s national elections have been taking the initiative to speak for their own political choices.

Complying with the Alert Level 4 status of the city back then, participants from both caravans observed the standard health protocols and kept their routes away from Central Bacolod to avoid running into larger crowds and interrupting business in the metropolitan area.

EDITORIAL

IN THE MIDDLE OF A DYADIC CHOICE

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Marie Shella Ann G. Patigas As the local government still aims to curb the spread of the pandemic, crime statistics dropped by 43.32% in Western Visayas as cemeteries and memorial parks in the region remained closed for this year’s All Saints and Souls Days, celebrated from Oct. 29 to Nov. 2.

The Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) released data showcasing crime records from this year’s ‘Undas’ season, reflecting results that are significantly lower than 2020’s report, with eight focus offenses

such as homicide, theft, and rape decreasing by 53.19%.

“We have no major incidents because we intensified our anti-criminality campaign and public safety operations,” PRO-6 Spokesperson Police Lieutenant Arnel Solis commented in an interview with Panay News.

By the same token, Police Brigadier General Rolando Miranda expressed thanks to the local government units (LGUs), barangay officials, and the communities for their aid during the whole process.

“I thank them for helping and cooperating

with the police which resulted in the peaceful observation of Undas 2021,” Miranda shared with the Philippine News Agency (PNA), referring to the collective effort of Western Visayans in cutting the local crime rate numbers.

Adding on to the safety measures at the time, help desks and other assistance services were made available to the public by PRO-6 personnel, alongside the presence of an estimated 9,337 force multipliers throughout cemeteries, terminals, and ports in the region.

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

BCD BEGINS VACCINATION ON MINORS AGED 12–17

WHAT’S INSIDE?

Advocating for their own bets in the 2022 elections, volunteer supporters of Vice President Leni Robredo and Partido Demokratiko Pilipino–Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) prospect Senator Bong Go hosted caravans along the highways of Negros Occidental on Nov. 5 and 6, respectively.

Vehicles of all capacities packed the streets as various Negrense groups paraded their self-prepared tokens of support for each candidate like handmade flags, tarpaulins, and t-shirts, to name a few, even setting up picnic blankets at the side of the road to share food with their allies.

Volunteerism heads people’s campaigns in Neg Occ

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FEATURE

JUSTITIA’S PLEA

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2 | EDITORIAL

KAPAWA

KAPAWA A.Y. 2021-2022

LOU MARCIAL M. CUESTA EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

JEWEL IRISH S. BELASCUAIN ASSOCIATE EDITOR

NICOLE FRANCES H. SAZON MANAGING EDITOR

ANGELI M. GEROSO NEWS EDITOR

FRANCIS EXEQUIEL P. AMPIL FEATURE EDITOR

GIOLLAN HENRY P. DEMAULO SPORTS EDITOR

RYAN A. RODRIGUEZ LITERARY EDITOR

JOSEPH BRYANT J. DE LOS SANTOS LAYOUT, GRAPHICS, AND PHOTOS EDITOR

ANA DOMINIQUE G. MANABAT CREATIVE LAYOUT EDITOR

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THERESE MARIETTE P. ROSOS ASSISTANT MANAGING EDITOR

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PRIMA YSABELA S. ARCIAGA ASSISTANT FEATURE EDITOR

JULLIANA RENEE S. OGAPONG ASSISTANT SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY EDITOR

SEAN CARLO O. SAMONTE ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR

OONA MARIA AQUILINA C. OQUINDO ASSISTANT LITERARY EDITOR

MA. AVRILLE MARQUIELA C. LORAÑA ASSISTANT LAYOUT, GRAPHICS, AND PHOTOS EDITOR

CLAIRE DENISE S. CHUA

ASSISTANT CREATIVE LAYOUT EDITOR

VINZ ANDREW S. CORESIS ANNA SOPHIA C. GALZOTE MELISSA E. GEQUILLANA SAM HERVEY T. SABORDO NEWS WRITERS

PAUL GABRIELLE T. CORRAL ZAMANTHA ZAYNN J. CHIEFE MILES U. GUANCIA KIRSTEN ANN G. LIMOSNERO MARIA MIKAELA H. TORMON FEATURE WRITERS

ASHGAN AL RAYEH MOH’D IDREES B. BKHEET

RYBA ANGELA N. MODERACION SPORTS WRITERS

JEWELYN L. LIBERATO

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY WRITER

ANGELA MARIE N. AMODIA AIKKA HEART L. DAVID GEORGE MARGAUX M. GITANO ALTHEA D. MARIJANA KAILAH MAY T. PACENO KYLE BRYAN T. PALPARAN MARIE SHELLA ANN G. PATIGAS LITERARY WRITERS

ANDREA KIRSTIN D. RAMIREZ LAY-OUT ARTIST

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RHIZNAN FAITH D. FERNANDEZ, LPT MODERATOR

Volume 6 No. 6 December 2020 - November 2021

“In the Midpoint of a Dyadic Choice” illustration by Claire Denise S. Chua

IN THE MIDPOINT OF A DYADIC CHOICE

T

he Philippines has inoculated almost 36.9 million fully vaccinated citizens, more than 33.7 % of the total population. Despite this, Filipinos have recorded staggering rates of nearly 2.8 million infections and 45 thousand COVID-19-related deaths as of November 13. In response to fast-track the recovery, a proposal has been escalated: Affirming the possibility of legalizing mandatory vaccinations.

In a recent press briefing, Presidential Spox.

Harry Roque avowed a valid reason—the possibility of obliging vaccine jabs in trade for cash incentives for Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries. The held sector is classified as impoverished households,

and 4Ps are targeted to improve their health, nutrition, and education, particulary children aged 0-14.

If given this binary choice, these groups of low-income families would experience an exploit of the constitutional right— mess about the money or hunger cards. Considering their economic status and the adjunct poverty inflicted by the pandemic, they would be left with no choice but to either withhold the incentive or forcefully take the vaccine.

Moreover, even Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte expressed the notion of using police power to coerce more people to take the vaccine.

However, this forceful manner of action to this

Editor’s Note

societal issue is straightforward neglect of free will. Exerting strain to alleviate the situation would never endow a permanent solution to this muddle.

Hilarious it may seem, but the free donut commercial promos of business are much more enthralling and incentive-worthy exchange for a simple vaccine card. This may even captivate the minds of anti-vaxxers to at least be intrigued with the possibility of taking the vaccine, rather than the vehement disincentive scheme proposed.

Of course, the fact that vaccines do work has been proven by several research studies that supported every claim.

Vaccine science, being

empirical, is enough to convince the mass to assure them that being unvaccinated is definitely harmful, rather than a precautionary measure.

Indeed, the only way to speed up this societal armageddon is through strategic planning—inclusive and rationalized policymaking, with reference to all Filipinos regardless of class or position. Starting with fact dissemination to combat the infodemic, and contextualized vaccine education.

Refusal to vaccines is a constitutional right; every step ought to be voluntary, and Filipinos should never be put into a situation where they end up with a dyadic choice.

Leon Emanuel E. Advincula

Filipinos are resilient, valiant, and dauntless—thriving is all we do the whole year-round. Despite this, we should not be steady on the trends of injustice, for we are sovereign.

Being enslaved is what we could be ending if we just rely upon the line of justice. Therefore, as the youth, we shall be the catalysts of change.

Facing the dominant tyrants—finding the Gideon in ourselves—bringing light to these injustices to conquer this cold drought of freedom.

It is our time, for even the media has been fouled and the lights of freedom are beginning to faint. Tainted and manipulated, the eyes to the persisting

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justice have been selective—giving way to greed, slander, and corruption.

In these times, only the weak are taken advantage of while cards of hunger and poverty are the profits of evil. Thus, we shall bear the podium to lay the paths to resurgence—saving the society, especially the poor and voiceless.

Now is the time of revival, ending the prolonged negligence we have sustained. Even if the mass is silent, we shall resist thriving— kung hindi tayo, sino?

VOL. 6

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OPINION | 3

KAPAWA

Philippine Education: A Matter of Apologies and Priorities thet -

valent ra

Therese Mariette P. Rosos

“

thetpono@gmail.com

The overwhelming demand of academic workload diminishes the quality of education, increases the ache for grade validation, overall defeating the purpose of learning.

”

Despite endless calls for #AcademicBreakNowSLU, the administration has once again failed to show its learners compassion—the very principle we are taught

as students of our own educational value—for issues quickly escalated pertaining to cases of self-harm after ignoring an otherwise indignant request.

I can’t help but fathom the idea that these incidents are detrimental to students’ lives and can greatly cause adverse effects on their mental health. The overwhelming demand of academic workload diminishes the quality of education, increases the ache for grade validation, overall defeating the purpose of learning.

The least facet we need right now is an egocentric practice of an institution blindly considering how wilful misconducts rule out the safeguard in education.

In all viewpoints of this dilemma, it comes to show the conspicuous gaps in our educational system.

If there’s a silver lining to all of this, it’s evidently the time to reflect on how much critical investigations are necessary in the pursuit of improving the approach on prioritizing educational reform over egoistic practice.

Mental Health Disorders Are Not Adjectives

“

Their way of instilling fear for respect is ineffective, as we do things for them not out of respect, but out of fear of what they would do.

Oona Maria Aquilina C. Oquindo aquilinajunior@gmail.com

It may seem intuitive to say that our mental health has been deteriorating but little is said about the converse of this statement.

Over the years of the Philippines’ colonization by many foreign countries since 1545, various cultures VOL. 6

NO. 6

and traditions influenced us into the nation we are now.

One of our most popular beliefs is that mental health is non-existent and is something to be ashamed of. This stigma is considered to be an effect of the public belief about mental disorders which should never be the reason to downplay it, for it is real

”

and not adjectives that define a person.

Some parents refuse a diagnosis because slated in their mind, strong fighters do not seek treatment.

Our parents are outstanding— finishing college, earning their degrees, and are home whenever we need them to.

But with an undiagnosed

History has repeated itself in a different dimension—a conception that has become the only fact I know in this current unsettling state we are in. Talk about economics, politics, and all its underlying matters being set aside—while some opine but with the fraud’s viewpoint falsely educating people, the reason why we have a fluctuating economic progress.

The Marcos regime once put the Philippines on reproach with a disreputable appellation: Sick man of Asia. This sprung from the economic collapse that transpired during the said administration, with the incurred debts reaching billions throughout his dictatorship. Fortunately, we thrived as the Asian tiger, being one of the fastest developing economies world-wide by 2019 with an average Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at 6.4 percent from 2010 onwards.

However, this recovery was soon disrupted by the outcry of COVID-19, effectuating many unpalatable backwash— a threat to people’s health, the cause of institutions’ closure, and economic declension.

But how can one of the fastest nations in Asia to reconstruct its economy suddenly falter?

After a year settling with quarantines, the curve still hasn’t flattened. With the fact that tourism, services, and remittances-fed growth are apparently fragile to lockdown, closing establishments had severely affected the economy with illness, where they want us to see strength, we see instability.

Research on this toxic Filipino parenting has found that parents who lived through adverse childhood experiences were more likely to report higher levels of aggravation as parents and to experience mental health problems—leaving their unresolved issues with their

CrocoKy

le

The field of education in the Philippines today confronts us with a daunting reality.

Envision a corner crowded with weeping students holding candles and seditious placards—protesting against the grim giants. While at the end of the well-trotted alley, you’ll notice an institution trying their best to dodge the ranging outcry of valiant students scorching through their premises—not a single ounce of justice served for the hitherto mourn echoing the sovereign state.

Two years went by since the COVID-19 outbreak prompted the country’s educational institutions to shift to a remote learning system.

Significantly affected by the new-normal, students from Saint Louis University (SLU) in Baguio are still struggling to cope with the contemporary learning modalities. Besides the technical and academic difficulties Louisians experience in dealing with online learning, they also have to contend with exorbitant school fees—a pecuniary concern for almost every student held captive in the same situation.

The Gambit Not to Gamble

Kyle Lenard A. Mangubat

“

kylemangubat8@gmail.com

Putting our country’s economy at risk is like retelling our past’s disgraceful story.

”

a ten percent drop on the real GDP. With the drastic regression, the country’s ways to refurbish our economy have gone seemingly inefficient— with the government improperly handling the predicament—wagering our economic progress.

Now, how can we successfully debunk the shame of the past?

We must break inconsistent valorization mechanisms—establish better strategies such as reforming our antiquated methods and commence economic revival with sectors now slowly reopening. By then, we can successfully rise from the fall.

Putting our country’s economy at risk is like retelling our past’s disgraceful story. Therefore, let us redirect our present ways and begin trudging towards the real recovery.

parents being taken out on us.

The effects of their troubles seep through our behavior. So instead of appreciating their sacrifices to be good people, we distance ourselves from them. Their way of instilling fear for respect is ineffective, as we do things for them not out of respect, but out of fear of what they would do.

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4 | FEATURE

KAPAWA

CO N F E S S IO N S

of a

Maria Mikaela H. Tormon Society’s obsession with extreme productivity and financial growth has upped its ante—driving us into madness.

Pre-pandemic or new normal-wise, the practice of being overworked where it contorts into a lifestyle—or hustle culture—has always prevailed in communities.

Students and professionals have been converted into workaholics, trying to accomplish mountainous loads of tasks in a rigid time frame because of this insane practice. Hustle culture has single-handedly capitalized on people’s intentions of having a better life by compelling

them into participating in its toxicity to the point of compromising a person’s well-being.

In an environment that prioritizes the grind over welfare, hustle culture has become unhealthy for many.

The once sanctuary called home is now a miniature version of a stress-filled work or school environment due to the number of duties needed to be accomplished within the frame of the new normal setting. This workaholic lifestyle can lead

to issues such as finishing lesser tasks, poor mental health, and physical ailments.

The hyperfixation of being busy and overworking ourselves for the sake of productivity can be detrimental to our bodies; hence, rest is essential.

Since the grind never stops, taking a long break can be associated with being lazy. Yet, are we truly lazy if we take some downtime meant to prioritize our health? No.

Rather than constantly beating our bodies down, allowing it to relax and replenish can help the quality of our work. A well-rested body can manage more tasks compared to a worn-out one. Taking a day off, having a long break, or having a “me time” should not be looked down upon, instead encouraged in this fast-paced world.

There is no need to feel guilty when we take downtime to recharge or be lazy, even just for a single day, as long as we allow ourselves to heal and replenish.

We are not machinery that

functions on oil and programming alone; instead, our fuel stems from the amount of rest we take.

Human bodies cannot run on sleepless nights and on a dozen cups of coffee a day.

It needs time to rejuvenate and recharge itself. Hence, if society wants the best outcomes, it should give its people the ability to rest or take time off of work guilt-free.

So, whenever our bodies crave for that welldeserved Netflix downtime, allow each second to pass as we submerge ourselves in its delight. After all, a little “me time” wouldn’t hurt.

Illustration by Janna M. Remus

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VOL. 6

NO. 6

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY | 5

KAPAWA

City Government launches BACuna card in Bacolod

ADVANCING. Vaccine rollout for pediatric immunization opens for minors in Bacolod City.

Edited by Timothee Ramon S. Consing and Ma. Avrille Marquiela C. Loraña Photo Courtesy of Bacolod City PIO

Jewelyn L. Liberato

SPECIALIZED. First-ever QR-coded vaccine cards in Bacolod.

Edited by Ma. Avrille Marquiela C. Loraña

Photo Courtesy of Bacolod City PIO

Benefiting from the current technological advancements, the Bacolod City government implemented the Quick Response (QR) coded coronavirus (COVID-19) BACuna card to establish a fast encoding of the fully vaccinated residents’ information if they intend to travel within the country on Nov. 8.

The BACuna card includes the individual’s personal information, the brand and lot number of the vaccine received, and the venue and date of the vaccinations; furthermore, it has a QR code that will be used to check whether the vaccinated person’s information matches those registered in the city’s record.

M e a n w h i l e, i n an interview after the launching at the Bacolod City New Government

Center, Mayor Evelio Leonardia said that the last time Bacolod had fewer than 18 cases per day was on Aug. 18, emphasizing that the BACuna Card’s availability is relevant given that the COVID-19 infections in the city have been on the decline in the last two weeks, with only 18 cases reported on Nov. 8.

“Restaurants will utilize it to let customers dine-in, while [...] cinemas may require it in the future,” the mayor added, assuring that the created card will be of benefit as the business and tourism industries begin to reopen.

In addition, Bacolodnon citizens who applied will receive their cards in two to three days and can expect a faster validation of vaccine records as a result of this technological innovation.

Illustration by Denise D. Lojares

BCD begins vaccination for minors aged 12–17 Julliana Renee S. Ogapong

Stepping closer to herd immunity, the Emergency Operations Center-Task Force (EOC-TF) started to inoculate minors with and without comorbidities aged 12 - 17 as protection against the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Bacolod City on Wednesday, Nov. 3.

Prior to the launch of vaccination, a rollout was given to around 300 children who were included in the Pediatric A3 priority group at Riverside Medical Center on Oct. 30 to ensure their safety and monitor them for any counter effects.

“Now what are we doing with pediatric vaccination? [...] We are bringing the vaccines to school,” Dr. Chris Sorongon, the deputy for medical data and analysis of EOC-TF said in an interview with Digital News Exchange,

expanding their reach on inoculating more minors by coordinating with the Department of Education (DepEd) Bacolod City Division and private schools.

Data released by EOC-TF showed that they have already vaccinated 8,000 minors as of Nov. 10 after reaching out to local government units (LGUs) to distribute vials and administer Pfizer vaccines to certain barangays in the city.

Moreover, the city government has also utilized two malls as areas for vaccination and upon entry, the teens to be injected are asked to present the required documents: Birth certificate, identification cards, guardian’s proof of association to the minor, and medical clearances for those with comorbidities.

“The city government is implementing

a phased approach in formulating strategies for the rollout in regular vaccination centers,” Em Ang, Bacolod Emergency Operations Center (EOC) executive director and COVID-19 Vaccination Council (CoVac) coordinator, stated in an interview with Philippine News Agency (PNA).

To secure a systemized distribution of vaccines, an online registration form was also made available for the minors who wished to be vaccinated.

Based on the data from the Department of Health (DOH), the city projects around 40,000 minors to be inoculated, furthermore, Dr. Sorongon also stated that the city hall has been putting efforts in achieving a 100% vaccination rate in the city, as encouraged by Mayor Evelio Leonardia.

Through the Virtual Lens: A Journey Across the Ever-Changing Digital Landscape Kailah May T. Paceno

Going around a chosen destination has always been a rush to the senses; eyes taking in every minute detail, the enticing scent of regional delicacies, and navigating through a swarm of people queuing to take souvenir photos.

The pandemic may have thwarted almost every Filipino’s travel plans, but startup VOL. 6

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corporation Mataverse did not let it hold them back from bringing their clients along in a tour of Cebu Province— albeit virtually.

Utilizing Virtual Reality (VR) Technology opened opportunities to have photographs in 360-degree view of notable attractions within the island. From the serene waters of Oslob’s

Tumalog Falls up to the white and gold facade of Carcar’s St. Catherine of Alexandria Church, Mataverse curated an interactive map reminiscent of evocative online role-playing and open world games.

The said map can be found in the startup’s website— mata.ph, which was done in collaboration with the provincial government under its Suroy-Suroy tourism program. It is still in its beta stage and continuously being developed, with notifications of every update posted on Mataverse’s official Facebook page.

Digitally mimicked experiences in a technologically-generated environment were already a notion that reverberated around gaming communities—the two letters of “VR’’ revered as the future of gameplay, where curious onlookers cheered on their favorite streamers as they braved through an immersive horror series.

Mataverse’s commercial use of this platform, while not entirely unheard of, jumpstarts the country’s VR ecosystem and creates new strategies for both marketing and tourism industries in one fell swoop.

It may not provide as much of a sensory overload as being physically present, but the fact that it is a feasible alternative, is still worthy of consideration— especially when stepping outside is still a matter of safety.

What Mataverse has accomplished marks a remarkable stance in the progressive technological advancement.

This innovative platform is a testament that VR can also be for commercial use, and that goes to show what Filipinos can bring to the digital landscape: They adapt. They innovate. They create.

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8 | NEWS

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Western Visayas gears up for limited in-person classes Vinz Andrew S. Coresis

RESTART. Students across the country join trials to prepare for the possible return of physical classes in 2022.

As vaccination efforts for minors against the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continue in Western Visayas, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Department of Education (DepEd), through an agreement with the Department of Health (DOH), approved schools across the region to begin conducting restricted face-to-face classes.

CHED and DOH released a Joint Memorandum on Nov. 5, Friday, that allowed limited face-to-face classes for Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in areas under Modified General

Edited by Timothee Ramon S. Consing and Ma. Avrille Marquiela C. Loraña Photo Courtesy of Panay News and Esquire

Community Quarantine (MGCQ) and low COVID-19 alert level systems, which in turn has granted 11 Western Visayas-based HEIs hosting medical and engineering degree programs to conduct circumscribed physical classes.

“Classes will be limited only to degree programs in the medical field such as nursing, medical technology, physical therapy, medicine, midwifery, public health, and dentistry, and other programs such as hospitality management, travel management, engineering, indus-

trial technology, marine engineering, and transportation engineering,” Dr. Arnold Anceno, one of the education supervisors of CHED’s Region 6 unit, addressed in an interview with Panay News.

Adding on, Anceno clarified that attending the trial face-to-face classes is purely optional for the learners, ensuring that the chosen schools have passed several inspections from the regional offices of DOH and CHED and are therefore deemed fit to hold physical meetings among their student body.

“Limited face-toface classes are not mandatory.

This is voluntary by nature. If the students feel that they are unsafe, they [can] opt not to join, but still, it is the obligation of our [schools] to give them the flexible learning scheme,” Anceno added, highlighting the hesitancy among many learners and their families toward the proposed return to the old normal.

Fur thermore, DepEd has also given a go signal to 100 schools across the country, including three public schools in Western Visayas, to start opening limited physical classes on

Nov. 15, counting 90% of the school staff involved in the pilot run who have already received at least one dose of any available COVID-19 vaccine.

In like manner, the Emergency Operations Center-Task Force (EOC-TF) in the region pursued their vaccination efforts for minors aged 12 to 17 with the help of local hospitals and selected mall partners in conducting operations to thoroughly prepare and equip students for the possibility of fully-fledged in-person classes that are projected to happen in 2022.

Neg Occ celebrates Cinco de Noviembre, awards LGUs

Angela Marie N. Amodia

Photo Courtesy of Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office

MEMORIALIZING. Provincial staff attend the Negros Day celebration at the Capitol Park and Lagoon in Bacolod City.

Commemorating 123 years since the province gained freedom from Spanish rule, Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Lacson and Vice Governor Jeffrey Ferrer headed a ceremony themed, “Pasidungog sa mga Bag-o nga Baganihan” at the Capitol Park and Lagoon in Bacolod City on Friday, Nov. 5.

The celebration was attended by officials and employees from local and national government units, welcoming guests like the Negros Occidental Singing Ambassadors and the University of St. La Salle

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(USLS) Masskara Theatre Ensemble to lead performances in the event.

“As your governor, it is my ardent hope that as we celebrate today the victories of our past, we find renewed meaning, resolve, and inspiration to unite [...] to achieve our common goal,” Lacson emphasized in his speech.

A d d i t i o n a l l y, the event recognized local heroes with the Outstanding Negrense Award, acknowledging COVID-19 response teams across Negros Occidental for playing major roles in keeping

the province safe and thriving amidst the pandemic.

“Without team effort, it’s really hard to defeat COVID-19. [These awardees] are considered our heroes in Negros Occidental for their contribution to the health and well-being of every Negrense,” shared Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz II with the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

Moreover, Lacson urged everyone to practice the health and safety protocols required throughout the ceremony, remaining attentive against the ongoing threats of the virus.

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NEWS | 9

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BCD opens gates to more travelers from Metro Manila Althea D. Marijana

Preparing for the return of residents coming to celebrate Christmas at home, the Provincial Government of Negros approved the increase in flights between the Bacolod-Silay and Ninoy Aquino International Airports on Monday, Nov. 15.

Negros Occidental Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz II announced on Nov. 11 that there will be an upgrade from the previous count of two flights per week to Bacolod and Manila, vice-versa.

“That means one flight per day for each of the three airlines,” Diaz stated in an interview with

Photo Courtesy of Philippine Star

REVIVAL. More passengers flock to airports to catch flights between Negros Occidental and the National Capital Region.

Inquirer, referring to Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines (PAL), and AirAsia Philippines as the three companies.

Moreover, the decision was made after a meeting was held among Diaz, Provincial Governor Eugenio Lacson, and Vice

Governor Jeffrey Ferrer, discussing the implications that the lowered coronavirus disease (COVID-19) Alert Level in both regions might present.

“This will bring down airfare to and from Manila that is currently [at around] PHP 7,000 to PHP 9,000

one way,” Diaz shared, anticipating that the increase in flight frequencies will prompt more affordable rates for individuals who plan on traveling.

Additionally, to avoid potential threats to passenger safety, Diaz

COMELEC leads extended voter registration in BCD

Ensuring that all qualified voters exercised their suffrage in the 2022 National and Local Elections, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Bacolod spearheaded the voter registration held at various locations across the city from June 25 until Oct. 30.

The registry was intended to conclude on Sep. 30, but COMELEC gave a month-long extension nationwide as it approved “An Act Fixing the Last Day of Registration of Voters for the 2022 National and Local Elections,” a bill proposed by the House of Representatives in lockstep with the Senate on Sep. 27.

“I am encouraging young voters, especially the first-timers, to register now. Eventually, you will have a say in determining the future of [the city] and our country as well,” Bacolod City Mayor Evelio Leonardia emphasized in an interview, addressing COMELEC’s efforts to increase the number of voters in the country.

Fur thermore, COMELEC initially assigned three malls, namely SM City Bacolod, Ayala Malls Capitol Central, and Robinsons Place Bacolod, VOL. 6

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as sites for registration under the lengthened period.

“Today, instead of only 300, we issued 400 queueing numbers plus 100 for the priority lane.

However, some did not come back,” City Election Officer Kathryna Trinio-Caña said in a virtual press briefing in line with the resumed acceptance of new voter applications at SM City Bacolod on Oct. 11.

On the last day of registration, hundreds of people lined up outside the COMELEC satellite site from the University of St. La Salle (USLS) to the Robinsons Triangle before the daybreak of Oct. 30.

“Our voter’s registration [was] held at the USLS, and we are thankful for them for allowing us to use their facility so we can accommodate more registrants,” Trinio-Caña expressed, crediting the institution for encouraging more people from the city and outside to sign-up.

Originally, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) had projected 73.3 million Filipinos in the voting population for next year’s elections, but COMELEC only expects to have 65 million registered voters nationwide for the said event after recent tallies show only 63 million have enlisted.

emphasized that those caught using falsified documents for their travel will undergo a seven-day quarantine process before they can acquire permission to get a Reverse TranscriptionPolymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) test.

“We’re hoping that this [influx] will not worsen our situation amid the ongoing pandemic,” Diaz expressed to SunStar Bacolod.

Meanwhile, leisure and cargo flights between the cities of Bacolod and Cebu remain at one to two trips weekly, offered only to PAL and Cebu Pacific vaccinated passengers.

Melissa E. Gequillana

AMPLIFY. Voters prepare to exercise their rights as they rush to join the last few days of voter registration in Bacolod City.

Photo Courtesy of Mark Z. Saludes (Rappler) Illustration by Patricia Therese Florence M. Alonso Edited by Claire Denise S. Chua

THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE - SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL

10 | FEATURE

KAPAWA

Crying Over Spilled Milk int ero

Kirsten Ann G. Limosnero

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Have you ever seen a social media post that you perceived otherwise, but held your tongue—or in this case, fingers—from speaking out due to the unneeded attention that you knew you’d draw to yourself once you tap the send button?

Then comes the regret you feel for the clammed up words that should’ve outspoken imbecilic discussions on flamed up arguments. You’re left there with an u n i nv i t e d tranquility—what if I did it instead?

In an era where most life updates are shown online, most would express this on digital platforms they fancy.

But what is more baffling to note is the common presence

of others’ negative opinions on countless preferences, going so far as to cause disputes and “flame wars” on various vague stances.

Certain people strain and waste their online voices only to muffle those also throwing pure vitriol fighting for their opinion. When in fact, they could’ve done better things with their time if only they ignored the triggering block of text meant to attack. This common unhealthy practice littering the internet may even go as far as to drag in innocent online bystanders, introducing them to a familiar sight of online warfare.

One answer as to why this happens might be because holding a grudge online is easier with the non-confrontational aspect of being on the internet. The temptation to do so may be due to people sharing a unified sentiment on the comments they read. Scrolling by the sidelines makes them feel

ignorant, causing the accumulating anger of going silent or doing nothing about it. Expressing oneself online may be a way of venting the pent-up frustrations outside of the internet conversation— hostility emerging from the feeling of being unheard.

Feeling a certain emotion at a given point or time is normal. It would be justifiable to express anger at certain situations if one was respectful or simply voicing out their concerns with the consideration of the opposing side. But if it were ever to devolve into an Edited Ma. Avrille Marquiela C. Loraña online fight, itbywould be best to and Xiomara Ann B. Mondragon swallow up the unnecessary pride as a precaution to avoid headaches over online hate.

It may be alright to have opposing views on viral discussions circulating in the vast spaces of web, but openly engaging in fights with strangers on the internet?

Definitely not worth it.

JUSTITIA’S PLEA Prima Ysabela S. Arciaga

As the authorities would say, the ignorance of the law excuses no one, it may be harsh but it is the law, and its rules apply to everyone.

But nowadays, it seems like most consequences are only given to the underprivileged— contradicting what the law preaches about itself.

When desire takes over, rationality is compromised.

As greed transpires, some people with power use dominance to free themselves from accountability. Every time this occurs, a loophole to the justice system is created—opening a door for more misconduct to take place. As the law punishes the marginalized, but turns a blind eye to the atrocities of those who are behind it, the law defeats its own

purpose—for selective justice was and will always be a form of injustice.

Amidst all these mayhem, maybe it is just the right time to remind the society of Lady Justice’s presence in courtrooms.

Being the allegorical personification of the judicial systems’ moral force, she embodies the traits of what the law should possess.

Her blindfold, the symbol of objectivity—implying that everyone should be given a fair treatment.

Her toga, the garment that symbolizes the status and responsibilities of those who practice and enforce the law.

Her double-edged sword, signifies authority, transparency, and respect— conveying what a good judgment should be. Her

scales, probably the most popular symbol among the four, signifies the impartiality of the court’s verdict, as they weigh both claims and evidence presented.

The statue’s mere existence already serves as a reminder—an underlying message that prudence, ethics, and morals hold higher positions than anything else.

Although each of her symbols represent different sectors of justice, they have a common denominator: To mold a society and government that prioritizes the welfare of its people.

THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE - SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL

Edited by Ma. Avrille Marquiela C. Loraña

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11

SPORTS

FUTURISTIC. Filipino gamers explore the virtual world of Electronic Sports.

Edited by Ma. Avrille Marquiela C. Loraña and Xiomara Ann B. Mondragon Photo Courtesy of eSport Bet, Free PNG Logos, and hasrul_rais (Shutterstock)

The Rise in the Philippine Gaming Industry Ryba Angela N. Moderacion and George Margaux M. Gitano Endless first bloods, countless victories and defeats, and deafening cheers from the avid fans—unlike any other sports, this is where players can imagine that they’re the character inside their screen and protect what is there to defend.

Esports, an abbreviation for “Electronic Sports”, is the world of competitive video gaming that is a fast-growing international phenomenon.

With streaming services and live tournaments, it can transform casual gamers into

remarkable stars who can sometimes collect seven-digit earnings, massive followers, and brand endorsements.

With its tremendous popularity, which gained an enormous number of users and the constant updates of competitive innovations by the High-Tech companies— it appears that the gaming industry in the Philippines won’t diminish anytime soon.

Along with the growing accessibility of smartphones and the internet, the Philippine Esports market is gradually

increasing by 12.9% per year since 2017, highlighting Mobile Legends: Bang Bang as one of the country’s most popular Multiplayer Online Battle Arena games. Due to the pandemic, a lot more Filipinos became engaged in video games, promoting the bloom of Esports in the Philippine Industry.

In a report published by ABS-CBN in August 2019, according to the Moontoon Esports Manager, Jingjei Lin, the Philippines has the

second-highest number of users in Mobile Legends coming after Indonesia.

Furthermore, Lin intends to provide much more incentives to Filipinos by hosting more tournaments and offline events as one of the top playing countries in the world— making the fans of the game enthralled with excitement. Lin once happily said that many Filipinos are capable of playing Mobile Legends anywhere, may it be at school or work. Because

of this, the Philippines was given more Esports and offline events—like the MLBB League held in 2020, as Lin and his colleagues in Moontoon had the country close to their hearts.

The world of video games, being undeniably stupendous, keeps improving and growing every day. It’s a world most people live in—perhaps to escape all the stress brought by reality, to entertain themselves, to break out of the glass of boredom, or simply just to kill time.

San Carlos City commences swimming competition for Pintaflores Sean Carlo O. Samonte

In celebration of the Pintaflores Festival, the 1st Open Water Swimming Competition was held along the coastal waters of People’s Park, San Carlos City, which was facilitated by the local government in coordination with the San Carlos Swimming Club “The Marlins” and the Philippine Sports Commission on Nov. 3.

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The competition, which was said to be a realization after years of planning by Coach Tomas Katalbas, had a total of 24 participants over four categories: 13 year old and under boys and girls 500M, and over 13 year old boys and girls 1KM.

In the 13 year old and under boys,

Luka Roland Pama took first place, with Eddan Erl Chelit Russia and George Andrew Acuin trailing behind at second and third place, respectively.

On the other hand, Jayann Operio clinched first place, followed by Jarence Ynomie Oniot at second, and Sofiel Ellese Russia at

third in the 13 year old and under girls.

John Ryan Baculao, Jerwin Molas, and Banjo Sermon were hailed as first, second, and third placers, sequentially, in the over 13 year old boys category, while Jeshanna Loize Oquiana, Angelee Kirsten Soria, and Lexie Batusbatusan respectively bagged the

first, second, and third spots in the over 13 year old girls category.

Medals, certificates, and cash prizes amounting to PHP 1,500, PHP 1,000, and PHP 500 were awarded to the first, second, and third placers, respectively, while finishers were given PHP 200 and participation certificates.

THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE - SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL

12 | SPORTS

As COVID-19 took the playing field and benched most of our athletes last year, it seemed that the sports industry will be having a halftime break longer than expected.

Sports tournaments, especially those with athlete contact, were halted as the growing fear of the pandemic struck the globe—ending an era of stadiums full of excitement—or did it?

Bringing contact sports back to the court isn’t an easy task, yet it isn’t impossible either.

The fortunate commencement of the 2020 Summer Olympics during the pandemic is one example, so why not copy a few measures for our local sporting agendas?

KAPAWA

Bringing Back the Hype

“

The rebirth of contact sports may not be a perfect home run, but progress is progress—and that’s what matters.

Mandating vaccination would be the optimal solution as vaccines were proven to be the most effective solution against the virus. Having fully-vaccinated athletes enables mask-free games, securing the safety of the players and coaches.

”

However, if the majority of the players opt not to take the vaccine, having heightened restraint would be the next possible choice against this dilemma.

A bubble set-up would be fitting as these were described to be an area where sports teams

Sean Carlo O. Samonte

seancarlosamonte914@gmail.com

are isolated from the public, ensuring the prevention of virus transmission via outside contact while the games last. This protocol permits athletes to participate in games, vaccinated or not, while prioritizing their safety.

Eventually, the catastrophic effect of the virus will begin to subside, and life as we know it, will return to its original state. Yet, rushing the situation isn’t the best approach, as rash decisions can lead to grave consequences.

The rebirth of contact sports may not be a perfect home run, but progress is progress— and that’s what matters.

Every second our athletes are out of the courts is another drop of hunger that fuels their appetite in bringing back the hype—hopefully reviving the spirit of sporting COVID-19 had claimed in the first half of 2020 once arenas are reopened.

Blacklist International Successfully Grinds to Victory Ashgan Al Rayeh Moh’d Idrees B. Bkheet

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Blacklist International successfully defended their crown after they dominated the tourney and sealed the win against ONIC PH during the Mobile Legends Professional League (MPL) Philippines Season 8 which started on the 27th of August and ended on the 24th of October, in an offline setting at the World Trade Center in Metro Manila.

After intense matches between the two best teams for the championship title, Blacklist International was victorious in sealing the top spot by winning the fifth battle of the best of seven series, only losing in game 2 with a

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4-1 romp and briskly securing the triumph, leaving ONIC PH defenseless.

“[I’m] very, very, very happy. Starting from [MPL] Season 2, this has been my dream and so I didn’t stop playing in the competition because I wanted to win as champion,” said Blacklist International’s Salic “Hadji” Imam, the Most Valuable Player for MPL Season 8 in an interview regarding how they felt being the back-to-back champions

Hadji acquired 24 points on averages of 2.67 kills and 5.79 assists per game, along with a 4.65 Kill-Death-Assist ratio at the end of the season, earning

the recognition from both his teammates and fans in his first season as a member of Blacklist International after switching from Omega Esports.

“Hadji has been here since [MPL] Season 2, he is a great player yet he had never become a champion before, but here he is now, a champion.” said Blacklist jungler Danerie “Wise” Del Rosario, praising his teammate’s excellent performance after their match.

The black and white squad will be representing the Philippines in the upcoming M3 World Championship accompanied by 1st runner up ONIC PH.

San Carlos holds Pintaflores Festival Badminton Cup Aikka Heart L. David

Intensifying the festive spirit, the Pintaflores Festival Badminton Cup led by the San Carlos City on Nov. 6, at the City Sports Park, San Carlos City.

A ceremonial serve commenced by Mayor Renato Y. Gustilo led 94 local players who joined the tournament competing in categories: Men’s Doubles 50 up and Officials,

Mix Doubles Level D, Mix Doubles Open Category, Girls Singles under 11, Boys Singles under 15, Girls Singles 15 and under.

The goal of the event was to promote badminton as a sport in the city to inspire and encourage players to join and gain exposure, as said by Renbert Gustilo, executive assistant and badminton coach.

Additionally, a technical training led by representatives of the National Badminton Association was ongoing for local coaches of at least 17 participants joining the seminar for sports code of conduct and faced training on technical officiating.

Ma. Judith Brosula, technical committee chairman of the Philippine Badminton

THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE - SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL

Photo Courtesy of San Carlos City, Neg. Occ. LGU Information Page

Association, prompted the participants to be serious with their jobs as coaches and to contribute as much as they can in improving the quality of every game.

According to Coach Gustilo, the training is for the coaches to obtain more knowledge that they can share with the local badminton players to help them develop their skills.

REIGNITED. San Carlos locals of all ages take part in a Badminton Cup to celebrate the Pintaflores Festival.

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