Kapawa Vol. 6 Issue 6 (August–October 2021)

KAPAWA

VOLUME 6 ISSUE 6 AUGUST to OCTOBER 2021

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

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Smokes and Mirrors While election season fuels our democracy, the campaign period prior amuses us with its circus acts: a shiny show to blind the nation...

LSG by XIOMARA ANNE B. MONDARGON; ANDREA KIRSTIN D. RAMIREZ

photos taken from

edited by

How

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ON PAGE 02

Sci-Tech

No Such Thing as Certainty

READ

ON PAGE 04

Feature

How do you know what's right?

UNYIELDING . The House of Paris tops in the House Points update as of Sep. 8 with 225 points from their wins during the Buwan ng Wika.

Paris bounces back in virtual Buwan ng Wika celebration

READ

News

Virtual Acquaintance Party kicks off among Liceo houses

SOPHIA NICOLE C. DAYAO

Conquering the first major competition of the school year, the Golden Chimeras unveiled promising potential after winning the events of this year’s Buwan ng Wika celebration, themed “Filipino at mga Katutubong Wika sa Dekolonisasyon ng Pag-iisip ng mga Pilipino” held last Aug. 29 to Sep. 3.

After tallying the scores, it was revealed that the House of Paris obtained 1st place with a total of 225 points, allowing Parmenie, Rouen, and Rheims to finish second, third, and fourth with 210, 200, and 190 points, sequentially, in the week-long event headed by the Liceo Student Government (LSG) and Berdeng Parola, the official Filipino student publication of Liceo-De La Salle, on their official Facebook pages.

“Witnessing the results […] brought not just me, but the whole

House of Paris, pride and honor. […] Seeing the outcomes [of the competition] fueled our desire to do what is best for our house while adhering to our Lasallian core values,” expressed Ann Cobrado, the executive secretary of the House of Paris.

Additionally, “Panitikang Nasyonal: Bigyan Natin ng Diin at Dangal” led by LSG allowed the four houses to exhibit their talents in a series of competitions, namely Vocal Solo, Karakter Impersonasyon Video, Vocal Duet, and Karakter Impersonasyon Poster, with Paris bagging first place titles in the final two.

Nonetheless, the Green Griffins of the House of Parmenie proved their skills as they dominated the events of the “Lasallian Press Conference (LPC)”, co-organized

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by LSG and Berdeng Parola to test the houses’ proficiency in four categories: Pagsusulat ng Balita, Pagsusulat ng Editoryal, Pagsusulat ng Lathalain, and Pagdidibuho.

“It was a feeling of fulfillment and pride in the house […] that in the first event for the school year, we already placed high […], considering we’re called underdogs. A new year, a new set of Griffins [to unite, and the house wants to offer] a platform [for them] to show their talents,” House of Parmenie Executive Coordinator Sheloe Treyes remarked in light of her house’s performance.

All in all, the house points tally as of Sep. 8 had been derived from the eight events of the Buwan ng Wika 2021, with the houses earning at least 15 points for ranking last and as much as 50 for placing first in every competition.

READ

ON PAGE 14

Sports

Yulo rises after Olympic stumble, earns multiple medals in world championship

Gold and silver were earned for the Philippines after Carlos Yulo bested 55 other nations in the 2021 Artistic Gymnastics World Championships...

Sining at Tula Para sa Bayan event emphasizes Filipino patriotism

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MELISSA E. GEQUILLANA

Igniting sparks of the Filipino spirits, Bahandi: Production and Arts Club, together with Berdeng Parola, the official Filipino student publication of Liceo-De La Salle, pioneered the “Sining at Tula Para sa Bayan” last Aug. 23–30.

The said competition was held in commemoration of this year’s “Buwan ng Wika” and “National Heroes Day”, which aimed to spread historical knowledge to the Lasallian community.

“Patriotism […] runs in the blood of the [Filipino] youth, […] but due to the existence of foreign influence,

[…] [we are] slowly losing this trait. [Our club] responds to this […] [through] the activity […]

Sining at Tula Para sa Bayan,” expressed Rhianne Delmo, the executive president of Bahandi.

To echo their motherland’s culture, the participants explored significant events from Philippine history for the creation of their poems and computer graphics.

“Along with the creativity all Filipino Lasallians have, we can give honor to our heroes who shed blood […] [and fought for the] freedom [of] our country through putting our gratitude and the imagery of

their deeds in words and stanzas of poems,” Delmo stated.

In line with this, Chelsea de los Santos and Jolianna Ginete of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) 12-G garnered the throne with their winning composition entitled “Cantadora”, leaving Angel Magbanua of STEM 12-I and Carlos Valderrama of STEM 12-G in the 2nd spot with “Kariktan ng Irog Kong Bayan, Dakilang Kasaysayan ng Pilipinas”.

“Success is not done overnight. My partner and I were delighted that our hard

work, perseverance, and creativity were acknowledged and valued.

As artists with a blazing passion for preserving the Filipino culture through works of art, we are grateful for the recognition,” Ginete stated.

Furthermore, the winners received virtual kudos after their works were displayed on the club’s official Facebook page last Aug. 31. “[Our] Philippine national hero believed [in] us […] to be the hope of the country, and I hope we would do that too,” de los Santos remarked after their triumph.

THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE - SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL VOLUME 6 ISSUE 6 AUGUST to OCTOBER 2021

How

PATRIOTIC. Poet Chelsea de los Santos and Artist Jolianna Ginete of STEM 12-G wins "Sining at Tula Para sa Bayan" with their piece entitled "Cantadora". photos taken from LSG and Chelsea de los Santos by STEPHANIE ANNE O. ALOLON;

2 Editorial

A.Y. 2021-2022

KAPAWA

EDITORIAL STAFF BOARD 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

LEON EMANUEL E. ADVINCULA ASSISTANT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

KYLE LENARD A. MANGUBAT ASSISTANT ASSOCIATE EDITOR

THERESE MARIETTE P. ROSOS ASSISTANT MANAGING EDITOR

SOPHIA NICOLE C. DAYAO ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR

PRIMA YSABELA S. ARCIAGA ASSISTANT FEATURE EDITOR

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JULLIANA RENEE S. OGAPONG

ASSISTANT SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY EDITOR

SEAN CARLO O. SAMONTE 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 CORESIS ANNA SOPHIA C. GALZOTE MELISSA E. GEQUILLANA SAM HERVEY T. SABORDO

Illustration by ANA

DOMINIQUE G. MANABAT

NEWS WRITERS

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

JEWELYN L. LIBERATO

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY WRITER

ASHGAN AL RAYEH MOH’D IDREES B. BKHEET RYBA ANGELA N. MODERACION SPORTS WRITERS

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

PATRICIA THERESE FLORENCE M. ALONSO JULIANA MARIE G. CARPINTERO DENISE D. LOJARES JASON LEE J. PAMATI-AN JANNA M. REMUS ILLUSTRATORS

STEPHANIE ANNE O. ALOLON TIMOTHEE RAMON S. CONSING XIOMARA ANN B. MONDRAGON PHOTOJOURNALISTS

RHIZNAN FAITH D. FERNANDEZ, LPT MODERATOR

VOLUME 6 ISSUE 6 AUGUST to OCTOBER 2021

Smokes and Mirrors While election season fuels our democracy, the campaign period prior amuses us with its circus acts: a shiny show to blind the nation.

When presidential candidate Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s educational background came to light for its accuracy, specifically his attainment of a college degree at Oxford University, the people came in full throttle to separate fact from fiction. Lo and behold, the heedful masses have prevailed in debunking the outright lie that Marcos has tried to mask. More importantly, this story illustrates how come election season, holding the truth to power becomes harder; thus, we need to persist for conscientious digital citizenry.

The former senator’s case shows how easy it is to misinform the voter population in this age.

Luckily, his camp putting out that he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Politics, Philosophy, and Economics has been debunked by Oxford Spokesperson Clare Woodcock, stating he did not complete his degree, rather was awarded “a special diploma in social studies”. With the Philippines topping social media usage for the sixth year in a row according to an annual report by advertising firms We Are Social and Hootsuite, it’s safe to assume how vulnerable our voter population is when it comes to these likely situations.

On another note, a question hangs in the air: Should we fall under the spell that he is nothing like his late father, who needs no introduction?

As of late, Marcos has not appropriately addressed his father’s national violations, rather has only sugarcoated his arguments to benefit that of his family name. This line of actions exhibits in our valid scare that should he win, the possibility of altering historical narratives heightens.

At the end, born out of the scion’s misinformation activities, are netizens on the plight of accuracy and accountability. We are our best weapons against candidates like Marcos because it is our duty to hold

the people, in close proximity to power, accountable.

Whether through initiating fact-checking, capacitating digital literacy, or as simple as negating our family group chats’ web of conspiracy theories, no act is too small in this fight.

Seeing right through the Marcoses campaign, we stay more vigilant but grow in hope that gone are the times we fool ourselves for figures with no interest in improving the Philippines. We must constantly reevaluate the information spoonfed to us, because the more avenues allowed for these political figures to elongate their noses, the more likely we’ll end up at the shorter end of the stick.

attending online classes leads to issues like sleep disorder, depression, and decreased attention. Barely having spare time due to overwhelming workloads, we become distant with our families, friends, and especially with God. With our mental, emotional, social, and spiritual spheres constantly degrading, I say that braving the virus is what we need to replenish our system.

Our physical state is undeniably at-risk with inperson classes. But vaccine accessibility is at our disposal. Scientists sought for solutions and after the long breakthrough, they brought what can flatten the curve.

With this antigenic preparation stimulating the body’s immunity against COVID-19, being vaccine-jabbed can brawl the disease.

Alongside the valid fears of the virus still lingering

to ensure that the risk is worth braving into.

By then, we can cinch a virus-free state as we go back to school by stringent practice of vaccine literacy, strict enforcement of precautions with limited number of persons allowed inside the campus, assuring that everyone is tested negative, imposing regular wellness check-ups, and creating a safer space for students to learn without our holistic health at-risk—at jeopardy—in question.

With education regressing to the real normal, we need to solidify protocols for this to be a big leap for mankind—not a hop away from the awaited change. So let us fortify one another, and with unified forces, the ongoing surge will be conquered.

One Big Leap for Mankind

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We’re living in a nightmare of the education we once relished—the now stressinducing system of online worksheets and only-internet interactions brought by the damning commotion of the pandemic. Though some might deem it palatable this way, the fact alone that it jeopardizes several students’ holistic health calls for the reestablishment of face-to-face learning.

On the onset of the viral outbreak, institutions

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With education regressing to the real normal, we need to solidify protocols for this to be a big leap for mankind— not a hop away from the awaited change.

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were immensely affected, and education systems soon optimized a new setup— instructions went from conventional to digital. This shift effectuated students’ lives in many aspects with the negatives predominating.

Thankfully, this voyage on the electronic barge could be ending as we await the pending approval of physical classes.

While education is gradually reverting to its normal state, would it be worth risking going out there in the dominion of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)?

Undergoing the lockdown has been a struggle.

For one, the people couldn’t help but fear the virus attacking our physical states, yet underneath that, it has also devoured our holistic health. Health experts state that

in physical spaces, we need to enforce stronger measurements

THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE - SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL VOLUME 6 ISSUE 6 AUGUST to OCTOBER 2021

Opinion 3

KAPAWA Volume 6. Issue 6

News over Nescience

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Gullible, is what we all are.

Undeniable as it is, the most frequent users of the internet— students, businessmen, and even the most professional educators—bite the bait and tumble through the realm of fake, distorted news more often; and in these trying times, we need to stop doing so.

For instance, when false posts about vaccine privileges reached the social media feeds of netizens, thousands of Manileños flocked to the same four malls

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It is because of these fabricated stories that we fail to communicate.

Illustration by JASON

LEE J. PAMATI-AN

in search of their own doses, mostly forgoing the minimum health protocols. Though it had

immediately been proven false by executives, it still stands as a clear manifestation of how

fake news can bring our most distressing fears to life.

The pandemic has urged the spread of these manipulated stories—from health, to education, to even the elections—especially because the lockdown has restricted fact-checking efforts. It seems, though, that digital citizens are purposefully choosing silence over questioning the fallacies, and little do they know that they’re propagating fake news by feigning oblivion—after all, choosing no sides means choosing the opposition.

Undereducated, is the excuse used when people are held accountable for disseminating these faulty pieces of information. But if you were to ask me, ignorant is what I’d call them if I wanted to point out the plain truth.

Perhaps you have not yet fully understood, but it is because of these fabricated stories that we

fail to communicate—whether in a classroom, a company, or the country—and it is with these spun tales that our unity as a society dissipates into nothing but petty Facebook wars and unproved arguments.

Faking blindness when it comes to fake news means empowering the trolls—haters downgrading a figure, supporters twisting the narratives, and even just unknowledgeable folks—in overtaking one of the most important pillars of democracy: the press.

Fake news—it’s not something we can choose to ignore. Rather, it’s something that makes or breaks the balance of society, and it’s everything that the opposition needs to attain success. It’s about time that you and I wake up and debunk the lies we’ve been fed, and it’s high time we chose news over nescience.

Blindfolded our history and what our went through.

invalidate ancestors

tries to revise our history, for our past is a part of who we are—a lesson that

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Neglecting the oppressed makes us no different from the hands that victimized them.

Recognizing our platform and utilizing it to help the less fortunate are the things that we should practice instead as a society. Let us not turn a blind eye when someone

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subscriber count, amounting to 4.53 million, she “paved the way” for the former senator to strengthen the foundation of the misconceptions about Martial Law—showing insensitivity to the surviving victims of the Marcos era. Other than that, with the 2022 elections being just around the corner, Toni using her platform to amplify BBM’s sentiments has added more fuel to the fire.

As members of a virtual community, it is our responsibility to utilize our platforms to its maximum potential towards the greater good. Having access to the internet is already a privilege, which is why there is an unspoken rule in how we should assess the information disseminated and digested.

In Toni’s case, she used her platform to give someone a chance to whitewash

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advantage of the country, the so-called successful economy, and how the Philippines reached its highest peak when we were under the rule of Ferdinand Marcos. However, data says otherwise. According to a report from Amnesty International, around 34,000 were tortured, 70,000 were imprisoned, and 3,240 were killed during the implementation of Martial Law. In addition, the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) and GDP per capita began to fail, putting the Philippines in a huge debt, that even us, the grandchildren of that generation, might end up paying for it as well.

With all these contrasting notes between the romanticized version and the truth, the anger of the people towards Toni was quite understandable. With her huge

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Nothing is scarier for a public figure than to get “canceled” on a platform, where they’re on top of their game.

Around September of the year 2021, actress Toni Gonzaga was under fire after her interview with former senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. went viral. In the said Toni Talks episode, the interviewee talked about his childhood in Malacañang, his family’s struggles, and what is the greatest lesson that he learned from his father, just as the video’s title suggested.

The interview immediately sparked a hot discussion within netizens due to the fact that it is the epitome of historical revisionism.

Until now, there are still a lot of misconceptions about the Marcos regime. Bongbong Marcos (BBM) apologists would speak about the military

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prevents us from the same mistakes the oppressors have dealt. Therefore, neglecting the oppressed makes us no different from the hands that victimized them.

How are the jocks?

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Fiery courts. Clashing cheers.

The strenuous turnout of events.

Who doesn’t miss the sight of school sports?

Well, not more than athletes themselves, right?

It has been almost two years of pause for varsity students; in the rush of the pandemic, they have been overlooked, and the effect has taken a toll on them. Now, as we eventually return to the new normal, it’s time to revive

When asked how their sports mentality changed, it was evident that there were some downfalls. As an individual,

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As we eventually return to the new normal, it’s time to revive school sports— we must bring athletes back to the courts.

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school sports—we must bring athletes back to the courts.

So, how are the Jocks?

Despite the stereotypical labeling of student-athletes for not being serious in school, a quick conversation with my varsity friends made me realize how critical this educational system affected their lives. It had a degradative effect on both their physical and mental states— factors that administrations should take into consideration.

Undoubtedly, the battle of keeping physique is a tough patch. As preached by the athletes, maintaining body weight and stamina has been a struggle. Being isolated in their houses limits access to sports facilities and training. Thus, leading them unconsciously to uncontrolled food diets and exercises.

born to breathe inside courts and be fueled by court-side cheers, not having these aspects

altered their view on sports.

Likewise, the motivation to play is an essential factor ingame outcomes. Aside from the adrenaline surge experienced during the heat between games, this also helps their healthy perspective of good sports traits since sports develop morale and values holistically. Even if virtual sports programs exist, we should not limit ourselves to Zoom-based team rallies or dribbling practices.

In another perspective, their sports careers have also been compromised. University sports has always been scouting for athletes during meets.

Now, how are they going to showcase their crafts without the conventional meets?

This becomes a stumbling hurdle for some athletes who want to continue their careers on major

THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE - SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL VOLUME 6 ISSUE 6 AUGUST to OCTOBER 2021

courts; dreams of playing for universities in metros are jeopardized.

Especially in the final stages of a senior’s campaign, doors for higher leagues should be opening.

As I ended the conversation with my varsity friends, hopes of returning to their territories were illuminated. Noticeably, this would improve their state as an athlete and also as a student.

Though health-related risks in this pandemic would pose as barriers, it would be better than relying on sedentary routines.

Indeed, it is now time to bring back athletes to their domains. The revival of school sports is essential, not just to support the system but to reestablish sports and physical development as an integrated approach to answering the calls of the pandemic.

4Science

and Technology 25k 7-Day Moving Average

photos taken from Gulf News

by STEPHANIE ANNE O. ALOLON; edited by JOSEPH BRYANT J. DE LOS graph taken from Department

SANTOS

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of Health (DOH) January 1, 2021

7-Day Moving Average 4,561

15k October 25, 2021

7-Day Moving Average 3,362

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IMMUNITY. The Department of Health (DOH) declares Philippines at low-risk for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) due to the decrease of daily cases last Oct. 25.

Philippines now at low-risk classification for COVID-19 AIKKA HEART L. DAVID & GEORGE MARGAUX M. GITANO

Illustration by DENISE

D. LOJARES

No Such Thing as Certainty JULLIANA RENEE S. OGAPONG

If there is one thing that’s certain in this world, it’s that there is no such thing as certainty. While one has been eating the plantbased, no-meat burger in contemplation, a question pops in: What’s stopping it from being literal dirt and gravel slapped between two pieces of bread and getting called a “healthy burger”?

Well, maybe that was too much. However, did you know that these plantbased burgers, although contain less saturated fats compared to red meat, are still highly processed foods that sometimes are even genetically modified, making them very far from what is considered healthy? The takeaway is that even in the food that one eats, uncertainty is still ever-present. In the eyes of the public, they have been deemed as amazing products thanks to these highfalutin, flowery buzzwords that often deceive people into thinking what they are consuming is the next big superfood. But in reality, these magical meals have a dirty trick or two hidden under their sleeves.

Food labels monitored by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are one way a consumer is apprised with the content of a product, but unplumbed meanings behind these labels may leave some dumbfounded, like the infamous “no added sugar” that countless products claim, which you’ve probably seen on juices, pastries, chocolates—the list goes on! With that, your sugar level correspondingly

increases because this means that they didn’t add more to what may already have been a humongous amount of artificial sweeteners.

However, the misleading label implies that the product must not have had any sugar in them, which may confuse people in the future and would be considered a bitter pill to swallow for those who have a sweet tooth.

Even the “natural” label that has been slapped on every food product you can ever imagine lures health-conscious people since it sounds like you’re getting meat and produce coming from authentic plants or animals. Yet, it’s still farmed, processed, and introduced to unnatural additives, such as pesticides, hormones, and antibiotics. Natural does not equate to healthy. Although fast food might sound good for lunch, its agendas veiled by these labels will give you a bite of the reality sandwich and a tug on your heartstrings.

The bottom line is that being well informed and knowledgeable in this day and age helps big time in countering these fallacious and deceitful marketing strategies, especially when people rely most of the time on food delivery services due to how hectic their schedules are. There’s almost no time to stop and scrutinize what one eats before it even reaches their stomachs. At the very least, know when brands are trying to deceive you, so you don’t end up getting full from and of their lies. You are what you eat, after all.

Informing the national sector about the current health status, the Department of Health (DOH) declared the Philippines as low-risk for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), with the daily new cases remaining below 7,000 in nine days straight, as recorded by the ABS-CBN Investigative and Research Group last Oct. 25.

Making the total cases of the country over 2,761,307, DOH announced the lowest number of cases last Oct. 20 with only 3,656 cases and 4,405 last Oct. 25.

Moreover, the number of active cases has been at its lowest since Aug. 2021, in which the Philippines was at high risk and had the highest recorded deaths with 56,372 active cases.

Flattening the COVID-19 curve, over 7,000

patients have recovered, and in line with this are the vaccines that were released to the public that helped decrease the number of active cases.

“With Delta being the dominant variant with an R0 of 5 to 8 compared to an R0 of 2 to 2.5 for the original SARS Cov-2 virus, the community baseline transmission will likely settle at a level that is [two to three] times that of the previous variants.

The best way to get this lower is to vaccinate,” said Dr. Edsel Salvaña, a member of the DOH Technical Advisory Group and an infectious disease expert, on a Facebook post.

Leading the country closer to its goal of reaching 100 million doses, 3 million Sinovac COVID-19 doses were delivered last Oct. 24.

“The only way to decrease further will be to vaccinate more while sticking to our MPHS. Moreover, even if there are large increases in cases like in the [United Kingdom], the hospitalizations and deaths will remain low if many have been vaccinated,” added Salvaña.

Furthermore, the Philippines’ Health Technology Assessment Council (HTAC) recommended a third dose vaccination for the health care workers and senior citizens, which was later approved by Health Secretary Francisco Duque last Oct. 25.

Covering 22.4% of the country’s population, a total of 52,303,905 COVID-19 vaccine doses were given to the citizens of the Philippines, wherein 24,307,903 were fully vaccinated, as reported by the World Health Organization last Oct. 24.

#SciTechSavvy ALTHEA D. MARIJANA

?

This type of white blood cell helps heal damaged tissues in one’s body and aids the immune system in fighting back against bacteria and fungi. They are the first ones to take action whenever an infection enters the body. What are they? a. Monocytes b. Lymphocytes c. Neutrophils d. Basophils

Go to the entertainment page for the correct answer!

THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE - SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL VOLUME 6 ISSUE 6 AUGUST to OCTOBER 2021

5

KAPAWA Volume 6. Issue 6

Green Technology: The Rise in Businesses JEWELYN L. LIBERATO

The worldwide economy and business are both expanding at present. Though this may sound pleasant to the ears, it may also raise environmental concerns because it comes with a long list of negative consequences due to the irresponsible practices employed by some imprudent enterprises— people will inevitably beg for change to appear on the front door. Amidst a global recession, green technology emerges at the forefront of this change and rapidly becoming more accessible—encouraging everyone to adopt a more balanced environment.

Green technology was developed with specific purposes—to make the most of emerging technologies without putting natural resources at risk. Improved human health, reduced land degradation effects, and lessened global

warming impacts are among the most immediate benefits.

Hence, green technology will supplement these energy sources, and the advantages will surpass the capital investment.

Nevertheless, green energy initiatives can be difficult to assess and apply. It is deemed relevant when businesses are slow and arduous to include all components of socio-economic responsibility into their business plans. The economic incentive fails to integrate the aspect of expenses as a result of environmental devastations that cause negative repercussions.

Embracing socio-environmental responsibility may also be troublesome for organizations that want to increase profits.

It takes a lot of effort and awareness to make the market much greener—most

companies might deem it well worth the effort—in the long run. Moreover, digital alternatives are a unique way to go if one is looking for a company loan that aids their green initiatives. As a result, these people have happier consumers, less environmental impact, and a business that will last for years.

Green technology is all about being efficient and long-term—conserving and protecting our natural resources so we can have a sustainable community.

This initiative does not deserve any delays.

When you can’t see the wood for How the trees, then maybe this is your chance to look through this Illustration by JEWEL IRISH S. BELASCUAIN env i r o n m ent a l breakthrough.

Preventing the Wrong Turn NICOLE FRANCES H. SAZON

Have you ever had one of those moments where your computer suddenly felt like it had aged a hundred years older even if you had just bought it a year ago—only for it to crash and deem itself useless?

Well, the topic of a computer virus is being overlooked nowadays. But lucky for you, this article provides the direction you will need to prevent taking the wrong turn.

1. Look for the lock

Just beside the website name within the search bar sits a lock icon. This icon determines the website’s legitimacy and security. If the lock is opened, then you may have to be extra careful with the information you take in or provide.

2. Do not bite on sketchy advertisements

People often find themselves opening sites to cater to their interests. Streaming from illegal sites run by advertisements may put you at risk of acquiring harmful malware. No matter how tempting these are, be the better player in ignoring.

3. Invest in quality antivirus software

Reliable antivirus software is a must for the safety of your computer. Software such as Norton,

McAfee, Avast, and the like may be expensive but guarantee your computer’s protection. An investment in anti-malware software is akin to a good gadget buy.

4. Think before you click

Viruses such as the ILOVEYOU virus is surely not the “lovebug” you’d want to be bitten by; it comes in the form of an attachment sent via email named “LOVE-LETTER-FORYOU.TXT.vbs”. Another one is the Schlayer virus, a type of malware that disguised itself as Adobe Flash Player’s updates.

How

Be extra careful in clicking around— you might invite the dangers that lurk behind the internet into your system. Just remember that not a single soul but only the person behind the screen has the choice to allow them to infiltrate one’s property.

Illustration by JANNA

M. REMUS

Maya-3, Maya-4 cube satellites successfully launch their international debut JEWEL IRISH S. BELASCUAIN

Taking the Philippine flag to another galactic venture, the Space Technology and Application Mastery, Innovation, and Advancement (STAMINA4Space) Program announced the successful deployment of Maya-3 and Maya-4 cube satellites (CubeSats) to space from the International Space Station (ISS) last Oct. 6, 5:20 p.m., via the Japanese Experiment (JEM) or “Kibo” Laboratory Module.

The beacons were received and decoded through the Philippine Universities Ground Archiving and Data Reception (PUGAD) station in the University of the Philippines Diliman a day after its release.

Featuring the characteristics of these 10 cm3 sky-reachers, remote data collecting systems and optical imaging are included that enable them to orbit in a parabolic pattern at a height of approximately 400 kilometers.

M o r e o v e r , STAMINA4Space stated during a press conference that the satellites also allow Filipino engineers to learn and acquire space technological proficiency as well as firsthand experience in satellite creation.

“The success of Maya-3 and Maya-4 will prove that CubeSats can be [effectively] built locally. [...]

The knowledge and experience gained from this endeavor can and will be shared [with] other

institutions t h r o u g h collaboration and cooperation,” Paul Jason Co, the project leader of Space Science and Technology Proliferation through University Partnerships (STeP-UP) project, confidently expressed his sentiments.

Promising that the recent satellites can surmount modern lapses, STAMINA4Space also revealed that the objectives and cargo of the project were conceptualized and developed to test and demonstrate technologies that can later be used to provide data for a variety of applications across several sectors, including agriculture, environment,

INTERGALACTIC. Batch one of Space Science and Technology Proliferation through University Partnerships (STeP-UP)

scholars during the CubeSats' testing phase in Kyutech. natural photos taken from DOST and Viva Pinas by resources, TIMOTHEE RAMON S. CONSING; edited by JOSEPH BRYANT J. DE LOS and disaster SANTOS risk reduction and management.

Before its universal Diwata-2 in debut, Maya 3 and 4 came to March 2016 and October the ISS from the Philippines 2018, respectively, as well last Aug. 29 via SpaceX as the nanosatellites Maya-1 Commercial Resupply and Maya-2 in June 2018 and Mission-23’s Dragon C208 February 2021. rocket.

Maya-5 and Maya They followed 6 are still under production, the launch of the bigger awaiting the attention of local microsatellites Diwata-1 and and international audiences.

THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE - SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL VOLUME 6 ISSUE 6 AUGUST to OCTOBER 2021

6 Vox

Populi

What do you th i n k of th e presi de ntial can di dates for 2022 e lections? prepared by

PRIMA YSABELA S. ARCIAGA , ZAMANTHA ZAYNN J. CHIEFE, & JOSEPH BRYANT J. DE LOS SANTOS

Joshua Eusebio

Liceo Teacher

We have candidates who are just as interesting as their platforms running for government. For me, the important agenda they should prioritize are the things debilitated by the pandemic. They need to address the economic standards of the country where [small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)] were affected, the concerns coming from the educational institution, the clamor of the health care system, and the overall recovery of the country.

We all know that COVID-19 will stay with us, but the holistic recovery should be a priority of the candidates. We need a candidate that could best represent the needs of the country, not serving its interest to protect their personal agenda whether that be family dynamics, immunity from suit, power clout, and their patronage and personality politics.

Leo Benedict Ramos

HUMSS 11 Representative

This year’s presidential candidates are quite unexpected to say the very least. A lot of middle to high-ranking officials were running and, as expected, competitive about it. I also honestly think that some of the candidates aren’t that qualified to become the next leader of our country. However, even if credibility is an important part of choosing and supporting a certain candidate, I can see that the people are willing to choose someone who’s able to serve us with full dignity and heart for the people and the country. Overall, I can say that this year’s presidential elections are interesting, especially when the younger generation are already able to vote [in the] presidential elections for the next year. I am looking forward to equity, and finally a well-qualified leader for our country.

Robyn Jornadal

STEM 12-H

As the filing of candidacy came to a close, an astonishing number of 97 candidates registered their desire to become willing leaders of the nation. Of the 97 candidates, there are only less than a dozen serious presidentiables who are, more or less, capable of leading the country. However, we must not make the mistake of confounding capability for competence. When choosing the right candidate, it is important to take into consideration the political machineries, credibility of platform, records of service, and financial resources to back up their candidacy. Stances on social issues, experience in the field of Philippine politics, and moral values are some (but necessary) factors that should be weighed in when determining who is competent enough to take on the responsibility of running the nation.

Enya Vianne Sumpay

TVL 11-A

The line-up for the 2022 elections is quite shocking for me because there are some unexpected candidates.

Somehow, I have my concerns about some of them, since, while they may appear to be very motivated and committed to their various campaigns, maybe they don’t truly mean what they’re claiming. To determine who is honest among them, voters must examine and be vigilant of them. Furthermore, because politics in our nation has a poor image, I can’t help but assume that some of the candidates are the same people that exploited our country in the past. We must remember that an ideal president is committed to the well-being of their country and follows through on their promises. I just hope that whoever is elected will follow through on them throughout their campaign.

Maribella Grace Javier

ABM 11-D

According to my purposive research, a substantial amount of people is especially in favor of either Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos or Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo. At the same time, the talk about Sara Duterte running for the position has also become an intense matter, as the reason being a continuation of her father, Rodrigo Duterte’s legacy. Personally, I am the type who explores various ideas from everyone else to form an unbiased judgment before deciding for myself which is right or otherwise. For this matter, I am yet to decide the one deserving of my vote. But the day that I will be focusing on a single candidate is the time that I’m believing in someone who has the unquestionable qualities of a leader, plus the capability to remedy the problems of our country.

Choosing a president should be treated as a serious case, ergo my careful assessment; there are hundreds of factors to be weighed in choosing a proper and righteous leader, though I believe there is no such thing in our poor country. I only hope that the people will not be blinded by treasures and vote for a rational person who can handle our country with utmost love and care.

Ulan Peralta

A&D 12-A

The presidential candidates of 2022, as a set, hold separate paths for potential hope or prolonging complications. Where there is now a great opportunity to push for repair or maintenance in a time of continuing conflict and climate crisis, there are the senseless yet powerful who yearn for short-term authority leading to longterm consequences, where there are eventually those merely born to see the world collapsing in their wake. Also, it is supposedly normal that an election is “legally” won through bribes and fame taken from foreign-in-name, familiar-inpractice traditions, perhaps even nepotism.

Our democracy, in its contemporary form and practice, can be seen as a constant fight to receive what it once sought to promise; should you observe with a heart most genuinely human-centric, this is more than apparent in every corner of our community when we bat an eye. In its base concept, we are meant to choose those who pledge their leadership as ultimate service. In that, relations within and beyond our country remain in balance. Things are looking up; this can be achieved, should we make the right moves. Widespread awareness and action can win elections, and we need it now more than ever.

THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE - SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL VOLUME 6 ISSUE 6 AUGUST to OCTOBER 2021

Feature 7

KAPAWA Volume 6. Issue 6

The coping mechanisms of college cuties text by

FRANCIS EXEQUIEL P. AMPIL & MARIA MIKAELA H. TORMON BRYANT J. DE LOS SANTOS

illustration by JOSEPH

F

or so many students, senior high can be a state of constant flux. One year, you enter, and the next, you leave—and everything between those two points is an accumulation of the before and a catalyst for the after. In many ways, these last two years of high school are the students’ nexus point—a levelled, equal ground for everyone to inspect the many forking roads and twisting paths that lead beyond the peripherals of pre-college academe.

These multiple possibilities and the steps taken to ensure that the one we favor the most comes to fruition are an interesting, layered thing to ponder—especially in how both of those are reached.

Universe of universities

Those unsure of when and where to start their search for life after senior high shall fret not further, for the Philippines has a wide spectrum of schools and institutes to pick and choose from depending on how they can serve you. One of the most famous ranges follows the contour of Taft Avenue, where colleges such as Philippine Normal University, De La Salle University, University of the Philippines Manila, and more sit idly at, waiting for their students, visitors, and even future applicants to wander in and appreciate all that they have to offer. But it is merely a smaller sliver of a whole web of paths, cul-de-sacs, and clusters of schools called the University Belt, a concentrated hot spot of some of the best colleges in Manila.

For Liceo’s greatest minds, however, some are already mining with a certain chunk of gold on their heads. ABM 12-C’s Carla Tating has her sights on Dumaguete’s Silliman University; STEM 12-I’s Juan Javier Bonnin’s goal is at the University of the Philippines Manila; and strand governor Marielle Natasha C. Judith’s—also of STEM 12-I—target a waterform away, over to the Iloilo area.

“My first choice is [the] University of San Agustin Iloilo, while my second [...] is West Visayas State University,” Judith states of her dream colleges. As university applications are out, about, and more often this late in the year, however, the search does not simply end there.

Course of action

After choosing among the roster of universities, students are then presented with the dilemma of picking a college course, which universities all over the nation offer a wide range of. From academic to artistic and from sports to culinary, each school vows to

offer prospective students the best education within these various fields.

While some graduating senior high school students are set with which direction they wish to go once they hit adulthood, many 17 or 18-year-olds are still clueless on which path to take. To add a cherry on top to this quite pressuring process, there is a preconceived notion that whichever course we take should align with what our profession should be. There is this fear that we might not enjoy what we ultimately choose or that if we are not fit enough for that certain track.

Judith agrees with this sentiment, saying that until now, “I can’t say that I have completely decided what I really am going to take, but I have narrowed it down to two.”

The sides of the coin flip lucky enough to land between getting a Bachelors of Science in either Pharmacy and Biology.

Applying ourselves

But to each their own; as students such as them have their goals set only a road trip, boat rides, or scheduled flights away, other Lasallians eye other institutions.

As applications for the big four universities open publicly through announcement posts on social media, so do the youths share them fervently, captioning with a nervous giddiness a memetic brand of luck—a chant along the lines of “UP Cutie,” “DLSU Cutie,” “ADMU Cutie,” and so on and so forth.

But an admission into any university isn’t guaranteed with just a simple caption.

For Bonnin, the application process is quite stressful. “Yes, dealing with the requirements is a tedious process, and applying to the most competitive schools in the country makes me anxious,” he explained.

Applications consist of various steps and require several forms and documents.

And while it can be perceived as an easy task at first glance, it is actually quite the opposite—collecting necessary documents from school registrars, recalling past achievements and honors, and submitting extra requirements asked by certain colleges; these are meticulous endeavors that high school seniors must accomplish before the set deadlines.

As for those who haven’t started with the application process like Tating, it may prove overwhelming already just based on their peers’ stories. On the hardest part of the enrollment process, she states that the finalization of course choice does make it hard, adding, “It is also quite hard to get all the documents needed for the application requirements.”

Truly students would have a lighter load if everything was as accessible as in the pre-pandemic times. But with the limitation set by our new normal, students are not offered as much aid as before—registrar offices and such are unable to be approached due to social distancing protocols and school administrations are unavailable to reply quickly due to the overwhelming workflow.

Multi-universities of madness

As particular as applications are, it only amps up from thereon. After senior high school, students embark on college—which for some is their final act for education, before the curtain call of jobs and starting families.

While our preconceived notions of higher education may alter once we step inside the campus, our teenage selves can’t help but think of the next four or so years ahead of us.

“I am seeking a new environment where I can be the best version of myself, studying with professors that inspire me, and fellow students that aim to be the best as well.

I believe college will be a fresh start for me, as I take on my journey in the medical field, where I will learn to become a better person, in service of the community, in the name of saving lives,” Bonnin shares when asked how he envisions himself going to college.

Similarly, Tating expects a stressful yet thriving time. She states, “Just from visualizing how my college life would be like I could see that there would be a positive change in myself. With that stated, there would be a difference between my senior high and college [selves].”

But as senior high acts as a ground for its students to jump off of, where they land is certified uncertain, especially with the pandemic still in effect. As Judith notes, “To be completely honest, I can’t fully envision myself as a college student.”

How can anyone see themselves as any student at this time? A frozen era in period, our senior high, occupied with Zoom screens and Canvas modules, truly made for a one-of-a-kind experience, injecting an already transformative moment of our lives with an extra dose as we look out into the horizon.

As we do, the sun setting on this age will bring a completely new day after it—one of colleges and universities and high school days behind us.

Judith sums it up perfectly, saying, “I know for a fact that I will undergo many changes as I transition from senior high to college, and I can only hope that it will be for the better.”

THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE - SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL VOLUME 6 ISSUE 6 AUGUST to OCTOBER 2021

prepared by FRANCIS

EXEQUIEL C. AMPIL, CLAIRE DENISE S. CHUA & ANA DOMINIQUE G. MANABAT

10 Feature

Wrong

How Do You Know What’s Right?

Choose

text by

KIRSTEN ANN G. LIMOSNERO & MILES U. GUANCIA THERESE FLORENCE M. ALONSO

illustration by PATRICIA

Right?

O

f any childhood memory, one that has to stick in our minds has to be the old hero’s dilemma—when the star of the show has to choose between the train crashing into the town or crushing the love interest on the tracks. Somehow, the common ending sees the protagonist saving both, bashing the incoming train with ridiculous brute force or some other bizarre way to cater to its young audience. But this is far too unrealistic for adults to apply in real life. After all, you can’t have your cake and eat it, too.

To magnify a far more realistic problem, one truly involving human life, Philippa Foot presents the infamous Trolley Problem. Known for its unforgiving set of conflicts, here is a narrative inquiry that touches on the delicate grounds of consequences, justice, and morality. In careful philosophy, Foot challenges the principles of human decision with one simple question: Would you kill one person to save many?

Or the other way around?

There are no functional brakes that you can just pull to end this discussion. Philosophy isn’t exactly a one-track practice to challenge our instinctive intuitions; the problem still roots in many applicable, day-to-day situations. Of course, it’s not that one day you will be dragged on a bridge’s peak, asked to turn a trolley on either five possible casualties or just one. Picture it: the possibility of death rested in your hands, bodies bleed cold through your fingertips, who gets to breathe once more, and who exhales their last.

Over the years, the Trolley Problem has shifted its shape, changing under the swapped-out, altered factors of who is on one track, who is on the other, how fast the train may go, et cetera. But above it all, the dominating variable of consequence, as questioned by justice, remains unanswered: What decision is right and which is wrong?

Maybe the problem’s inconstancy is due to the myriad of alternatives it holds. Could the Trolley Problem be introduced to the institution of Liceo-De La Salle?

Before ideas rocket up—no, no one’s tasked to choose between turning the trolley towards five senior high school students or one philosophy teacher. With the

matter of death aside, let’s push the pin down on sacrifice.

The virtual territory of online classes is crawling with a plethora of hardships and challenges that somehow always find their way to grapple on our legs and force lifeor-death decisions out of our throats. The unforgiving force of life prompts our bodies to the frontline. The point is, in this stage of life, there seems to be no room for messing up at all. There waits no clemency for people who make the wrong decisions, so you always must choose the right one.

Let’s say on a notion of five random subjects versus one essential to your strand, what will you choose to focus on? If the verdict were up to John Rosh Macasero of HUMSS 12-A, a philosophical decision between the two is plainly relatable.

He elaborates, “In this online [setup], I felt like I had so much to handle.

There were times that I was bombarded with the amount of work I received in my Canvas Course Tile. However, I needed to make the most of my time to comply with my deliverables.

For example, a situation comes up where I have to think which assignments I have to submit on time and the ones I have to delay.”

On the other hand, Dominic Rivera from the same class says, “The perceived value of one, as opposed to the five and vice versa, would be more important. If no criteria are available, I would go with the utilitarian majority.”

Another question concerning the Trolley Problem is then posed: Given the same scenario, would you save one person you knew and cared about or five whom you did not know at all? This scenario emulates the actual Trolley Problem, but with various people in their lives playing the parts.

Macasero chooses the five faceless people over the person he knew in this hypothetical.

He explains, “I would save the five people I didn’t know because I think saving five more people instead of one would make more of a difference in the future. My conscience wouldn’t keep me up at night if I picked the person I knew over the five individuals I could’ve saved.”

Following this point of view to promote a practical lesser evil, focusing on the outcome is essential. Five people over one gives this person the opportunity to save five lives rather than lose them due to bias.

But one HUMSS student going by the fake name “Manuel” states they would rather save the person they knew, focusing on the qualities of that individual rather than choosing the quantity.

Manuel states, “I value the people who tolerate me enough to be with me.

Because why would I care for the five people who have the possibility of not doing the same for me in the future? And I deeply care for the people I know, so why would I let him or her die?” This goes to show that the people in an individual’s life often affect one’s judgment, especially if they have people they truly care about stuck in a situation. As it is only human nature to help and gravitate towards what is favorable to the people that play even a simple part in their lives.

The situation is tricky if given much thought holistically. Selecting the five people means considering the five individuals that could contribute to society in the future. Five strangers would be alive due to your decisions, with only one death weighing you down. Yet, with choosing one person you know over five, that friend would still be in your life, and could still accompany you in whatever the future brings.

This is where the difficulty in the Trolley Problem lies, to choose what is for the possible societal “greater good” or to choose what benefits the person suddenly thrown into making this difficult decision.

Despite the two viable answers, with varying outcomes that may or may not be favorable depending on the individual, there is no concrete, correct answer. The point of the Trolley Problem is to showcase or discover a person’s ethical and moral motivations through a heavy dilemma, which in turn gives one an idea of where their intentions lie in dire timed situations, requiring a decision with split-second notice. Although not entirely applicable to everyday life, at one point, being suddenly bombarded with conundrums—heavy or not—happens to everyone.

The hypothetical Trolley Problem seems an easy scenario to find an ending to.

But when one has their hand on the lever in an experience almost all-too surreal—as the almighty judge, the foreseer of boundaries, and critic to consequence—then so do their fingers hold life.

The question is: Which lives would you save? And what exactly would it cost you?

Choose

THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE - SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL VOLUME 6 ISSUE 6 AUGUST to OCTOBER 2021

Entertainment 11

KAPAWA Volume 6. Issue 6

#SciTechSavvy

Paul T. Corral

Reviews

c. Neutrophils

O.O.O

Over & Over & Over Girls’ Planet 999 (2021) For those still reeling from the disappointment of the Produce 101 franchise after MNet (Music Network) manipulated the final line-up last 2019, listening to O.O.O (Over&Over&Over) by Girls’ Planet 999 will surely bring back bitter memories. But with a new set of trainees, traditions of flashy discography live on, complete with anthemic desires to achieve the triumphant call of stardom.

The synth pop undertones and pop rap lines also surely do give away as well a new twist to the opening theme song for the show. As for the lyrics, they are peppered full of every single contestants’ hopes and dreams, despite knowing that only a select few can proceed. Of course, the iconic “baro naya” is sure to continue to replay within the heads of those who listen.

Still a battlecry before the start of a journey for those who risk everything just to reach for the sky, they’ll also seize the opportunity to finally be a well-established idol. Aside from a little hard-lining with the cliché lyrics, the almost masterpiece does more than suffice.

by Joseph Bryant J. de los Santos

Neutrophils are white blood cells that lead the response of one’s immune system against infections. They are produced in the bone marrow and they compose 55 to 70 percent of white blood cells, making their type the most abundant. High levels of neutrophils can lead to a condition called “neutrophilic leukocytosis”, which is also known as “neutrophilia”. In contrast, low levels can result in “neutropenia”.

References University of Rochester Medical Center. (n.d.).

What are white blood cells? Retrieved from https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/ content.aspx?ContentID=35&ContentTypeID=160 Morris, S. (2018). Understanding neutrophils: Function, counts, and more. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/neutrophils Huizen, J. (2020). What are neutrophils and what do they do? Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/ articles/323982#causes

Where am I?

Rookie Historian Goo Hae-ryung

Kang Il-Soo, Han Hyun-Hee (2019) If you are a fan of Korean history with a side note of romantic quirkiness, Rookie Historian Goo Hae-ryung is a must-see drama series on Netflix. The show follows the life of a newly-hired historian named Goo Hae-ryung (Shin Se-kyung) within the royal court of Joseon. Fond of Western treasures, especially when it comes to knowledge in new literature and medicine, her life turns upside down when she meets Prince Dowon (Cha Eun-woo). Together, they navigate the world of politics with truth as their map.

While the storyline can be a little bit repetitive and the characters need to have more elaboration when it comes to the build-up of the plot, the acting prowess of the cast makes up for the majority of it, along with the constructed setting which will make you feel as if you were truly inside a time capsule.

Coming this January

Minimento

I should’ve just stayed at home...

THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE - SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL VOLUME 6 ISSUE 6 3 JULY AUGUST to SEPTEMBER to OCTOBER2021 2021

Coming this Janu

Minimento

12Literary

visuals by

JULIANA MARIE G. CARPINTERO, TIMOTHEE RAMON S. CONSING, & MA. AVRILLE MARQUIELA C. LORAÑA THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE - SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL VOLUME 6 ISSUE 6 AUGUST to OCTOBER 2021

KAPAWA Volume 6. Issue 6

THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE - SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL VOLUME 6 ISSUE 6 AUGUST to OCTOBER 2021

13

14News USLS satellite voters’ registration attracts massive crowds

Kapawa by STEPHANIE ANNE O. ALOLON illustration by JOSEPH BRYANT J. DE LOS SANTOS photos taken from

ANNA SOPHIA C. GALZOTE

SYNERGISTIC . The Liceo houses conduct their respective acquaintance parties through Zoom and Google Meet.

Virtual Acquaintance Party kicks off among Liceo houses VINZ ANDREW S. CORESIS

In an effort to solidify bonds, both grades 11 and 12 students flocked to their respective houses to attend the Virtual Acquaintance Party spearheaded by the house executives and the Liceo Student Government (LSG) last Oct. 15 via Zoom and Google Meet.

The event gave the spotlight to the four houses in welcoming the new phoenixes, chimeras, griffins, and hydras, which encouraged housemates to build camaraderie amongst themselves.

“The purpose of the Houses’ Acquaintance Party

was to provide a platform for each house to get to introduce their working committees and to hopefully allow each one to get to know their fellow housemates,” LSG Executive Vice President Veronica Aruta expressed.

Along with this, the house committees held collaborative activities to pave the way for members’ interaction despite encountering challenges prior to the event.

“A lot of preparations were considered for the activity.

Although most executive and committee members were

also busy […], they were able to help during the activity such as disseminating information to both grades 11 and 12. It was quite a hassle considering that it was all done for just a short span of time. Thus, the House of Rouen has always been grateful to those who have been working hard behind the scenes,” House of Rouen Coordinator Monica Parcon revealed.

Furthermore, the acquaintance party aided in promoting a sense of unity within the Liceo houses regardless also of the

delay in its execution due to technical issues.

“To be honest, there [were] mishaps and technical difficulties pertaining to the event, however, at the end of the day, it was still a huge success as a handful of students, both from [grade 11 and grade 12], attended the acquaintance party. It was interactive and encouraged participant-host engagement which was a measure of success for the activity,” remarked Giollan Demaulo, the House of Rheims coordinator, when asked about the event’s success.

Digital club fair showcases clubs, organizations SAM HERVEY T. SABORDO

Pursuing a vibrant extracurricular experience in their Lasallian education, the student body took part in “Liceo Student Hub”, the firstever interactive virtual club fair organized by the Liceo Student Government (LSG), in collaboration with various clubs and organizations, last Aug. 20 via Zoom.

The students were given the chance to be acquainted with Liceo-De La Salle’s accredited clubs and organizations as the virtual fair sought to create a connection amidst diversity through similar interests and skills.

“The Liceo Student Hub [...] was absolutely necessary to introduce the Liceo student body to the different clubs that the school has. Unlike last year, each club wasn’t given the opportunity to interact with interested students in an online call. This year, the LSG Executive Board is happy that this project was introduced and [will hopefully] be pursued in the upcoming years,” remarked LSG Executive Vice President Veronica Aruta.

Within the respective breakouts rooms for the said initiative, the Lasallian community engaged in fun and

interactive activities hosted by the clubs, while being informed of their mission and purpose to the institution at the same time.

“Active student engagement is a requirement in every institution for a student’s development. [....] This project is extremely beneficial to the student body because it allows them to collaborate with their fellow clubmates and classmates in selecting their preferred club/s for the school year [...], rather than just focusing on the overwhelming side of their academics,” said Cindy Balbastro, LSG’s executive secretary.

Lasallian lands top spot in Interschool Tour Guiding contest Prevailing against other schools in Negros Occidental, Marvin Lim from Arts and Design (A&D) 12-A became champion in the “1st Interschool Live Tour Guiding Competition” organized by the Travelers’ Society of La Consolacion College Bacolod last Sep. 25 through Zoom, which was livestreamed via Facebook.

USLS pays tribute to teachers through World Teacher’s Day In appreciation of all teachers, the University of St. La Salle (USLS) acknowledged the efforts and support they have extended to their students through a "World Teacher's Day Mass" last Oct. 5 at the USLS Chapel, which was premiered live on their official Facebook page.

What’s News ?

How

PARTICIPATIVE. The Liceo Student Government (LSG) launches "Liceo Student Hub", a virtual club fair. photos taken from LSG by XIOMARA ANN B. MONDRAGON

Opening its doors for aspiring voters to uphold political responsibility, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Bacolod established satellite voters’ registration sites around the city, including in the University of St. La Salle (USLS) Coliseum, starting from Aug. 31 until Oct. 30.

However, despite its purpose to be easily accessible and convenient for city residents, the initiative still imposed pandemic threats and chaos in the said area after thousands failed to observe health protocols as they lined up at the registration site.

“Some were even lining up since 1:00 [a.m.] and when we got there by 4:00 [a.m.], the line stretched from Gate 2 until the back of Gate 9. Everyone was eager to be registered despite the heat and lack of social [distancing],” stated Cindy Samson, a student voter from Liceo who registered at the university.

Concurrent Executive Director Em Legaspi-Ang of the Bacolod City Emergency Operations Center-Task Force (EOC-TF) feared that the said event would turn out to be a super spreader due to sightings of the city residents flocking near the area and in other venues, along with out-of-town transferee voters being unloaded from various vehicles.

Moreover, the report of law enforcement agencies stated that the out-of-towners have violated curfew hours as they huddled on the voting sites as early as 12:00 a.m.

“We now have an extraordinary spike of infections and number of deaths. [...] I am very vocal about this because it is [the Bacolod city and its residents] who are most affected,” remarked Ang in an interview with SunStar Bacolod News.

Furthermore, she believed that the voters’ registration had impacted the surge of cases that began at the onset of the event, especially since its extension, in the USLS grounds.

ANGELI M. GEROSO

Webinar on Philippine politics educates student body The Zoom conference entitled “PoliTricks: Deciphering a Political Campaign” by the University of the Philippines Los Baños College of Engineering and Agro-Industrial Technology (UPLB CEAT) Student Council enlightened the Liceo community about Filipino voting behaviors and political machines last Sep. 24.

Journalists from Liceo publications earn recognition in PIA workshop The Philippine Information Agency Region VI (PIA6) recognized John Rosh Macasero, Slara Garzon, Angeli Geroso, and Francis Exequiel Ampil from Berdeng Parola and Kapawa as some of the “Most Promising” and “Promising” student writers during the PIA Journ Talk Series 2021 last Oct. 13–15.

Liceo SPRCY secures two wins during RCY Month ‘21 The Red Cross Youth (RCY) Negros Occidental presented the championship and first runner-up titles of the “Educational Video” and “Tinig ng RCY” competitions, respectively, to Liceo De La Salle Senior Plus Red Cross Youth (SPRCY) last Oct. 31 as part of the RCY Month 2021, themed “RCY Woke: Winning Opportunities with Knack for Excellence”.

THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE - SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL VOLUME 6 ISSUE 6 AUGUST to OCTOBER 2021

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KAPAWA Volume 6. Issue 6

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TACTICAL. Lasallian wood-pusher Janna Remus places on an online chess tournament podium. photos taken from

ALOLON

Daraz & Janna Remus by STEPHANIE ANNE O.

Of Kings and Queens

photos taken from Philstar and Carlo Yulo

by XIOMARA ANN B. MONDRAGON

GIOLLAN HENRY P. DEMAULO

In an era where sporting events have become taboo—wherein seemingly countless measures are to be conducted beforehand for the game to continue spinning, the rise of online sports has been finally celebrated. Raising the banner for new opportunities has never been an easy adversary to toil with, but this was an avenue for Lasallians Aliah Belaño and Janna Remus to wave their flag in the online stage of competitive chess.

Belaño of STEM 12-M and Remus of ABM 11-C have been recently crowned second and third, respectively— in the Abanse Negrense Sports Online Chess Festival “19 and Under Girls”— spearheaded by Mr. Anthony Carlo Agustin, the executive assistant to the governor, held last Sep. 26.

Competing against 21 other vicious veterans, the Lasallian woodpushers pushed through against all odds to bring home glory for their name.

“It is an honor and a great opportunity for me to represent the school’s name and to become one of the best varsity players of the university,” said Remus, regarding her bold viewpoint for the idea of competing under Liceo’s name, sharing a synonymous dream to many student-athletes within the university’s walls.

Yet like the others, Remus has also admitted to looking out for potential threats to her war plan, especially those which do not respect the sanctity of the game. Since the sport is a brain-drainer, Remus believes that silence, concentration, and unbreakable focus are the keys to winning against your opponent.

Belaño, on the other hand, believes that chess tournaments are the essence of her survival, but stepping foot into uncharted waters of the online scene is nothing less of a challenge. Being born into a family of chess players—with their father being the head coach—she grew up alongside her brothers to eat and breathe chess, originally waking up at four in the morning and practicing drills until six, just in time for school.

Being the daughter of an official Bacolod City chess arbiter, Belaño explains that chess is a key component of her being. “Chess is part of our lives. We live with it,” she said.

Competing in a new avenue tends to shake the core of every athlete, some just become legends in their own rite in a much more fast-paced process, but a widely accepted fact stands tall in the face of adversity: Queens conquer the checkered board.

Abanse Negrense badminton tourney comes to a banging end GIOLLAN HENRY P. DEMAULO

Governor Eugenio “Bong” Lacson, accompanied by his executive assistant, Mr. Anthony Carlo Agustin, the provincial sports coordinator, officially spearheaded the conclusion of the Abanse Negrense Badminton Tournament last Aug. 24 at the San Carlos City Sports Park, San Carlos City.

Around 70 players from Himamaylan, Cadiz, Hinigaran, San Carlos, Talisay, Bago, Silay, Calatrava, Sagay, and Bacolod attended the twoday tourney, representing their different local government units (LGUs) under the province of Negros Occidental.

The activity that opened at 8 a.m. on the 23rd consisted of Men’s Doubles (MD), Women’s Doubles

(WD), Men’s Singles (MS), Women’s Singles (WS), and Open Mixed.

Day one was composed of an inspirational welcoming message by Governor Lacson, followed by the tournament proper itself with 18–22 y.o. mixed, open mixed, 50–up MD, and 30–up MD.

Day two carried on with the remaining matches for the 18–22 y.o. categories, along with the 40–up MD, and ended with the awarding ceremony headed by Governor Lacson and Executive Assistant to the Governor Agustin.

Registration for the tournament was made free to encourage participation but was capped off on the eighth of October.

Notable officials who attended the tournament included Executive Assistant IV Jesus Facundo Combate, San Carlos City Mayor Renato Gustilo, and San Carlos City Vice Mayor Christopher Carmona, among others.

The tournament was orchestrated by the Provincial Sports Office of Negros Occidental, headed by Provincial Sports Coordinator Agustin, assisted

by Tournament Manager Jay Binas.

Short clips of the tournament were presented live through Abanse Negrense’s official Facebook page, along with the poster for online registration.

VICTORIOUS. Carlos Yulo brings glory to the Philippines after a dominating world championship performance.

Yulo rises after Olympic stumble, earns multiple medals in world championship SEAN CARLO O. SAMONTE

Gold and silver were earned for the Philippines after Carlos Yulo bested 55 other nations in the 2021 Artistic Gymnastics World Championships held at the Kitakyushu Gymnasium last Oct. 18–24, earning the title as the first Filipino athlete to obtain multiple medals in one world championship.

Bouncing back after a disheartening performance at the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics, the 21-year-old gymnast led the “Men’s Vault” category with a score of 14.916, leaving Japan’s Yonekura Hidenobu and Israel’s Andre Manvedev to trail behind at 2nd and 3rd place with 14.866 and 14.649, respectively.

Meanwhile, Yulo squeezed between China’s contenders and earned silver, Hu Xuwei at 1st place with 15.466 and Shi Cong at 3rd place with 15.066, in the “Men’s Parallel Bars” with a score of 15.3, falling short to secure double golds for the country.

“Today, I really did my best. […] I was really confident that I can do this especially in vault, but in p-bar, I was [slightly] scared.

I was very nervous while doing my routine [because] my legs were shaking. I know I can do vault every time, but in p-bar, […] it’s not yet consistent,” Yulo said in a post-performance interview.

However, the reigning world champion failed to defend his title in the “Men’s Floor Exercise” after slipping and stepping out of bounds in one of his tumbling passes, causing a 0.3-point deduction which plummeted his gold medal standing to fifth place with 14.566.

“I just accepted it that [fifth] was my result.

The result is the result [and] I cannot control it. I’m [just] glad that I’m safe after the floor exercise,” Yulo expressed in the same interview.

Despite experiencing an elbow injury that forced him to compete only in three events rather than all-around, Yulo ensured that he will focus on training with other apparatuses upon returning to Tokyo.

Currently, the 4-foot11 dynamo sets his eyes on securing gold in the 2024 Paris Summer Games, potentially becoming the second Filipino to earn Olympic gold.

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SUPPORTIVE. Tournament officials handle the Abanse Negrense finale.

89.7 Radyo Bandera Hinigaran, Digicast Negros and Abanse Negros by STEPHANIE ANNE O. ALOLON

photos taken from

THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE - SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL VOLUME 6 ISSUE 6 AUGUST to OCTOBER 2021

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KAPAWA Volume 6. Issue 6

ADEPT. STEMinists display gaming proficiency in strand Esports tournament.

Good game, well played SEAN CARLO O. SAMONTE

LSG, Carlo John Tijing, Jujin Ferrer, & Sam Lester Serrato by JOSEPH BRYANT J. DE LOS SANTOS photos taken from

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t was the only chance for players to make first impressions by either proving themselves as buffable or nerf-worthy. A one-time opportunity to display their skills attained from sleepless nights grinding through the ranks—accompanied with the occasional rage-quits caused by teammates or lag. The optimal event for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Esports enthusiasts to establish their name in gaming, not just within their strand but in the whole Liceo community.

It was the “sySTEM Connect: A Virtual Strand Interaction” which was held last Sep. 25, the first of many competitive Esports competitions of the new school year.

Valorant, Call of Duty: Mobile, Minecraft: Hunger Games, and Minecraft: Build Battle were titles that highlighted the one-day event for the hardcore techies. On the chiller side of the screen, jigsaw puzzles, Spyfall, and Photo Hunt were added for the more laid-back players.

Action-packed rounds decided the fate of our competitors, separating the casual gamers from the pros, as many emerged victorious with teamwork and strategy. Flawless was the word for Team One’s performance in the Call of Duty: Mobile tournament after sweeping Team Six with a score of 150-83 in the final Hardpoint match. Composed of

Carl Tijing, Sam Serrato, Hillary Tilos, Giollan Demaulo, and Jahred Rivera, the five-person army conquered the competition—winning game after game—and showed their expertise on gunning opponents from mere mobile screens.

Meanwhile, Valorant’s Team Four composed of Alexie Agabon, Zachary Advincula, Jujin Ferrer, Jathniel Magada, and Ernest Pestaño dominated the arena as their agents battled it out during the matches.

It was a clash of tactics as a simple misplay can cost the championship title and leave them as 1st runner-up.

The last victor we have is Nheil Engada triumphing over the geometric battlefield in Minecraft: Hunger Games—proving that the odds were really in his favor. He climbed through the bracket one axe attack at a time, successfully vanquishing other players with wits and offensive left-clicks.

Despite being a virtual experience, “sySTEM Connect” was a great opportunity to promote interaction among the grade levels within the strand. STEMinists were able to create bonds with new allies and display teamwork like veterans vying for their third championship cup. Tension, determination, and passion burned through the screens as teams battled to eliminate the other in a quest for victory—and of course, bragging rights.

TNT steps closer to PBA crown in Game battle RYBA ANGELA N. MODERACION

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UNRIVALED. TNT Tropang Giga draws nearer to first PBA championship title.

PBA by ANA DOMINIQUE G. MANABAT photos taken from

TNT triumphed 10689 over Magnolia for a 3-1 series lead in the 2021 Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup Finals on their fourth game, Oct. 27 at the Don Honorio Ventura State University gym in Bacolor, Pampanga.

Mikey Williams led their attack with 26 points and seven assists to his name, but Ryan Reyes, leading the team, made the 3-1 lead as Jayson Castro scored 12 points and Dave Marcelo tallied 10 rebounds before the end of the first half.

Doubling the Magnolia Hotshots’ offensive performance, the TNT Tropang Giga got intense after a close first-quarter lead, from 33-15 to 57-39, at the break, Reyes scored 10 points for TNT in the second quarter.

Hitting a three at the 8:44 mark of the third quarter, Mikey Williams gave TNT their biggest lead in the game with 68-43.

A performance where he scored 39 points including 10 threes, Williams lost the Best Player of the Conference (BPC) Award to Calvin Abueva with a BPC tally of 843-389.

Williams also ended a threat by Hotshots with a 2:33 mark left in the fourth quarter giving TNT a 100-83 lead and he also scored two more threes turning the rest of the game into a sure win for the Tropang Giga.

“Our team is constructed in such a way that we have no first group or second group. We have 15 guys and anyone who is asked to come in to play a role is accountable to deliver,” TNT coach Vincent “Chot” Reyes commented regarding his team’s individual responsibilities on the match.

The men’s list includes Creamline, PLDT, ARMY-FSD Makati, DeliRush, Tuguegarao, EVI Construction, and Negros Occidental Beach Volleyball Club.

Regardless of the tournament being held in an outdoor sand court, the organizers of BVR on Tour have decided to approach the competition while observing a bubble set-up, which in turn may cause trouble to rookie athletes participating in the event.

"Focus pa rin, hindi nagbabago iyan. Kailangang ilabas kung ano iyong play namin, most specially yung goal namin [We still need to focus, that won't change. We need to bring out our plays, our plans, and especially our goals]," said Sisi Rondina regarding this new challenge.

The event has been held under strict health and safety protocols, with everyone undergoing a COVID-19 (RT-PCR) and antigen test three days before entering the bubble.

Although Game 4 wasn’t as dramatic compared to their previous game, TNT became a bit more motivated due to Troy Rosario, who despite his grave injury due to a fall in the previous match, continued playing for 19 minutes and scoring five points and three rebounds, while struggling to control the ball.

In this coming Game 5, TNT Tropang Giga has a chance to claim their first Philippine Cup on October 29, aiming to end an eight-year drought.

BVR on Tour: Back on track ASHGAN AL RAYEH MOH’D IDREES B. BKHEET

The Beach Volleyball Republic (BVR) returned in action on the 21st of October, after a two-year hiatus, in a bubble set up at the resort town of Santa Ana in Cagayan.

BVR on Tour was the qualification tournament of the national beach volleyball team for the Asian Seniors Beach Volleyball Championship set in Phuket, Thailand.

“Besides sports really trying to come back, the message that we want to send to the public, the majority and the audience, as well as

the stakeholders of volleyball, is that sports is a catalyst of hope,” said Charo Soriano, the Philippine National Volleyball Federation’s (PNVF) beach volleyball commission chair.

Competing in the women’s division are Creamline, PLDT, TM, Biogenic, Eastern Communications, ToyotaTuguegarao, BlackMamba Army, Sta. Lucia Lady Realtors, Boysen, Delimondo, and Good Health-CDO.

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REVIVING. Beach Volleyball Republic reanimates beach volleyball with bubble setups. photos taken from Rappler & GMA by MA. AVRILLE MARQUIELA C. LORAÑA

THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE - SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL VOLUME 6 ISSUE 6 AUGUST to OCTOBER 2021