Newsletter 2020-2021

SERVING THE ACADEMIC COMMUNITY AND THE COUNTRY SINCE 1944

The Official Student Publication of Technological University of the Philippines - Manila

Newsletter

2020 - 2021

2

EDITORIAL

The late imposing of travel bans persisted again after the country confirmed 6 new positive cases out of 110 passengers from India who arrived in the country before the travel ban was imposed. The Department of Health (DOH) confirmed two positive cases of the B.1.617.2 variant on May 13, 2021, and because of this, Filipinos now worry to the new variant which is sought to be more transmissible, with mutations that easily allow the virus to get past the human body’s immune system. Actions were so late reaffirmed by former National Task Force adviser Dr. Tony Leachon himself.

Illustration by Jean Claud Abarquez

The Aftermath of the Gov’t’s Incompetence in Handling COVID-19 spike in COVID-19 cases only T heproves substantial cause to say that

the virus is yet to be controlled and far to be eradicated in the country. With 1,597,689. confirmed positive cases as of Aug 01, 2021, placing the country in the 24th position for the most number of confirmed cases. This contradicts to the latter ‘excellent’ remark on gov’t pandemic response by palace’s spokesperson, Harry Roque.

Stressing the point why the country remains struggling in controlling the pandemic while neighboring countries like Thailand, Malaysia, Brunei, and Vietnam has successfully restrained COVID-19 in their territories, boils down to the previous actions and evident incompetent decisions of the Duterte administration in handling the pandemic.

Contradicting to the claim of President Duterte himself in his televised evening address last April 16, 2020 that the country was first to impose lockdown in Asia; facts prove otherwise that it was China who first implemented lockdown on

January 2020 in Wuhan, the epicenter of COVID-19, and other countries like Mongolia imposed lockdown and quarantine protocols in Ulaanbaatar and other cities after tallying their first positive case. Likewise, Vietnam on February 13, 2020, placed lockdown on Son Loi Farming region after discovering 6 confirmed positive cases, while Philippines on the other hand imposed lockdown in Metro Manila on March 15 followed by the enhance community quarantine in the entire Luzon on March 17 2020, only after getting 140 positive cases of COVID-19, 12 deaths, 93 from which came from Metro Manila.

Not only was the country late to impose a lockdown but also fell short in imposing travel restrictions. Dating back last 2020, when the country first stumbled on its first confirmed COVID positive case.

The government still insisted travelers from mainland China enter the Philippine premises because the administration itself believed that “confirmed cases are not limited to China”, even after other neighboring countries had already secured their borders.

Contact tracing serves an important role in suppressing the spread of COVID-19 but the current national average ratio of the country is down only to 1:3 – for every confirmed case, only 3 close contacts are found. The ideal ratio is 1:30 and 1:37, at least in urban areas. The result mainly attributes to the problem experienced by the contact tracing sector, that are undermanned, under equipped and under synchronized. Baguio City Mayor and contact tracing czar Benjamin Magalong stressed that contact tracing remains the “weakest link” in the government’s response against COVID-19.

Now the country struggles to get away with COVID because the government lacks apparent and inclusive solutions to resolve the situation. Despite the calls of the public for mass testing, nearly nine months after it was realized by President Duterte himself, too late that the cases blew to thousands already.

The country now suffers the extent of the administration’s mishaps.

According to the London-based think tank Capital Economics, the country’s economic recovery will be the most sluggish in Asia and its output may have to wait till 2024 before regaining its pre-pandemic potential. The World Bank affirmed the 2021 GDP growth forecast for the country to 5.5 percent from the earlier 5.9 percent. This projection is way below the government’s target of between 6.5 percent and 7.5 percent this year, coming off a contraction last year of 9.6 percent, the worst since World War II.

After the sluggish imposition of travel restrictions allowing new covid-19 variants to enter the country, the Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) is forced to revise the 2021 gross domestic product (GDP) growth projection. From 6.5% to 7.5%, the new target range is now 6% to 7% among the lowest in Asia.

OPINION

Filipinos expect the government to put high support on medical front liners that are not only overworked but are underpaid, weeping for just and equitable compensation and support but in the recently signed 2021 national budget amounting to 4.506 Trillion pesos, proposed budget allocation for the health sector seem to lessen, DOH’s fund down to P131 billion this year from last year’s P181 billion.

This only means that there will no longer be significant allocations for personal protective equipment (PPE) and testHing kits. Funding for doctors, nurses, midwives, and other healthcare workers deployed to unserved and underserved areas — subsumed under Human Resources for Health Deployment — will also be slashed by about two-thirds relative to last year. Only P2.5 billion is allotted for the COVID-19 vaccine this year.

While drastically slashing the budget allocation for the health sector amid pandemic, the Duterte administration prioritized allocating a massive 51% budget increase in the Department of Public Works and Highways and Department of Transportation which increased by 39%. Another prioritized department is the department of National defense, in particular its programs to end local communist groups. The Barangay Development Program of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict will be allocated a whopping P16.4 billion budget this year.

Despite the call of the people to strengthen the country’s medical sector. The Duterte administration illicitly prioritizes its motive to secure an authoritarian-like rule.

The Filipino people had enough receiving the fruit of their mishaps. The demand for accountability and adequate actions in handling the pandemic echo louder as the majority question the effectiveness of the administration’s response. The question remains, when will this end? The answer depends, whether the government will start to act right or stay the same. May we all be reminded that all of these are fruits of their previous decisions and the aftermath of their incompetent actions.

THE PHILIPPINE ARTISAN - MANILA - Editorial Board AUDREY MARIELLE SOLIS Editor-in-Chief MICHAEL JAMES WAGNER Associate Editor in English

Jerry Ponce Mandap News Editor Bachelor of Science in Computer Science jerryponce.mandap@tup.edu.ph

Herd Immunity: A Long way to go

T

he ‘ber’ months are coming but here we are, another extension of community quarantine. Jose Mari Chan memes are coming back, but our masks are most likely won’t go until the next few years if this keeps up.

Because of the non-stop surge of COVID-19 cases worldwide, different countries are all agitated to buy and provide vaccine doses for their jurisdictions. Due to the high demand and low supply of vaccines, the third world countries are struggling to keep up with the current pandemic.

JANSSEN KYLE HAYAG Associate Editor in Filipino FERDINAND QUINTO Managing Editor ALVIN JOHN MEDALLA Circulation Manager JERRY PONCE MANDAP News Editor MELLECENT MAE LEGASPI Features Editor JOHN PETER MAGBUHOS Literary Editor JETHRO ESCLETO Sports Editor ALYANNA PORNETE Graphics Editor - Writers FERCIE DALE BAYRON MARY CARINELLI GABATINO MARK LOUIE PERALTA ASKHIEA ASHLEY AMISTOSO CHARLENE GAIL DE ASIS EDLEE JANE AGAGAS ELIANNA ONG ABRANTES GILVEN JOHN RYAN SIDORO JONAS BAGAPORO KRATCH DAVE GATBONTON KUH-KAI DELCO KYLENE AGUINALDO MARIZEN IRA CHUA MARK JOSEPH AMPARADO MARY JOSEPHINE BAJADA ROMAR PADILLA SHARLENE HABLADO TRIXIE ANN AMADOR

In order to make the Philippines ‘mask-free’ in this pandemic, we must achieve what the World Health Organization (WHO) calls ‘herd immunity’. It is an indirect protection from an infectious disease like COVID-19 that happens when the majority of the population is immune through either vaccination or immunity developed by our body caused by previous infection. Of course, we want to achieve herd immunity through vaccination as the latter may result in unnecessary cases and deaths.

JEAN CLAUD ABARQUEZ ELIZA MARIE BATO FLORENZ CHRISTIAN HUTALLA VINVENT LEONARDO LAPUZ CLINT ASHLEY PIMPING ANGELO PINGOL ROMMEL ORENCIO

To achieve herd immunity, the National Government and Local Government Units (LGUs) bought vaccines as soon as they were available.

Although the LGUs have been stellar in this vaccination process, the government on the other hand is struggling to fulfill its main task – to procure the vaccine doses that we need.

JOELLE ASIA BALASCUAIN JOCELINA SARINAS JACQUELYN JIMENEZ KATLEEN IVY HERMOSA RIA ANGELI TARLAC RICK ANDREI CARIGMA

- Illustrators -

- Designers JEZRYLLE MALAZARTE AILDREEN JOHN VERDE MARK JOHN GABOY PATRICK JOHN VELASCO SHANIAH SAN JUAN - Photojournalists-

PROF. JENNIFER ALINSUNOD Technical Adviser

3

4 OPINION

According to the Department of Health (DOH), as per June 29, only 2.4% of the country is fully vaccinated starting from February, way far from the target set by the government of 70% by the end of 2021. At this rate, we can acquire herd immunity by February 2023.

Furthermore, not only the daily vaccination rate is our only problem, there are also people who are willing to pay ‘fixers’ for them to get their preferred vaccine brands. In a viral post from social media, it is reported that each slot with a preferred dose from Metro Manila cost from P8,000 to P15,000 depending on the brand.

There are also illegitimate persons with disability (PWD) who are faking their IDs to get to the priority list of the vaccination rollout. Mishandling of the vaccines are also becoming a problem. In the City of Cotabato, a blackout occurred and the vaccines where transferred to a freezer. Later that day, when the power supply has been restored, they forgot to plug the freezer, making the vaccines not usable anymore.

The bottom line is the government already admitted that they do not have any direct solution other than vaccines. Unfortunately, even the only solution they have (aside from advisory of frequent handwashing, wearing of face masks and face shields) are the vaccines, they are failing. We are already tired of a government that the only solution is to wait while the other countries are already opening up their schools and establishments. We have waited for too long already, and we are sick of waiting for mass testing and proper and clear quarantine guidelines and vaccination.

— “They are failing.

We are already tired of a government that the only solution is to wait.”

TUP Amidst the Pandemic: An Academic Shift that No One Expected classes on Mondays, mandatory usage of cameras by both students and professors, and no dyed hair, and among others. The university took a month before releasing the revised guidelines with somehow better instructions in it.

Audrey Marielle Solis Editor-in-Chief Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering audreymarielle.solis@tup.edu.ph

very first case of the coronavirus T hedisease or COVID-19 that was reported

was from Wuhan, China back in 31st of December 2019, then came 2020 when the virus has spread all over the world.

The skies have shifted.

Massive changes in all sectors of every country has occurred, wherein normal day-to-day activities of humans are now restricted into social distancing and mandatory wearing of face masks.

The Philippines is one of the countries in Southeast Asia that has the highest number of active cases with over 1.3 million cases.

The government has imposed numerous quarantines, lockdowns, and restrictions in hopes for the decrease of the spread of COVID-19 in the country, with an additional requirement on the usage of face shields than your usual face mask and social distancing combo.

The education sector is one of the most affected during these times. All physical classes of every student in the Philippines have been halted, shifting to online flexible learning for the safety of both students and teachers alike. With the sudden change in the education atmosphere, most schools and universities took time to adapt and plan new guidelines and protocols to be implemented.

Fortunately for TUP, after ending the unfinished semester due to the pandemic, was able to put out guidelines in conducting online classes in the university for the start of the new Academic Year 2020-2021. The first set of released instructions were frowned upon by students with the rules such as wearing the TUP uniform during

Students of all years and courses succumbed to the flexible online learning that the government has imposed. It was alright for a few months, students and professors are adjusting and adapting to the hopefully temporary circumstance of online learning. However, as time passed by, students experienced a different difficulty in terms of their academic responsibilities.

The addition of mentally and emotionally exhausting environment of some students in their own homes, the suffering of students who are having technical issues, the frustration built up towards the incompetence of the national government, students with their own personal problems, students having to deal with ridiculous and inconsiderate professors, the financial dilemma of choosing between buying food for the table or buying load for data to use in classes—these are only some of the factors that challenged the TUPians in being the best student they need to be.

Of course, not only the students experienced such circumstances.

Professors, administrative staff, and all of the people that makes up TUP are also affected by the pandemic. There are professors in TUP that are not tech-savvy and some of them experience technical difficulties in conducting online classes such as the internet connection, their microphone is not working, and others that are similar to the students’ struggles.

One thing is for sure, all of us are trying our very hardest despite the current situation that we are in and are holding on until this madness ends.

Now that the first academic year with the spice of a pandemic is over, a new semester awaits. Vaccine rollouts are still happening, so get vaccinated. In the end, face-to-face classes and being with your friends in flesh are definitely less stressful and more fun than online classes.

Here’s to hoping for a better year for everyone in TUP.

OPINION

5

A Protection or A Danger to Filipino Journalists?

Ferdinand Quinto Managing Editor Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurial Management ferdinandquinto34@gmail.com

or the year 2021, the Reporters F Without Borders’ (RSF) World Press

Freedom Index ranks the Philippines as 138th out of 180 countries. The country dropped its ranking for four consecutive years, which used to gauge the freedom that the journalists received in their respective country.

The Malacanang spokesman Harry Roque said that this year’s ranking is considered as de minimis which does not really mean anything. He also added that the Malacanang disagreed for the reasons why the country placed on that particular index.

He points out that the issue of the Rappler was being decided by the Securities and Exchange Commission – as all the appointees are from the Former President Benigno Aquino III, and the problem of ABS-CBN needs to have franchise in order to operate.

Still, the report from the RSF is a reflection of the current state of journalists in the Philippines. Instead of denying and saying that it is irrelevant, the government should use this as an opportunity to improve the environment for the press.

Last May 5, 2020, the ABS-CBN was unable to broadcast their programs as their legislative franchise expired and the issuance of a cease-and-desist order given by the National Telecommunications Commissions (NTC). Their application for a new 25-year franchise was denied by the House of Representatives due to its issues such as the violations to labor and tax, the limitation on foreign ownership, the dual citizenship of the former ABSCBN Chairman Eugenio Lopez III, and more.

On February 8, President Rodrigo Duterte said that he would not let the NTC give ABS-CBN the rights to operate, unless the media outlet would settle all their tax deficiencies.

However, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) OIC- Assistant Commissioner Manuel V. Mapoy during the continuation of the House joint panel hearing on the issue of ABS-CBN franchise said that the said media giant has been regularly paying their taxes for the past years. They paid over P15.3 billion from 2016 to 2019.

On the contrary, based on the statement of National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP), during the Duterte administration, there are 51 reported cases of attacks on journalists.

30 involved in red-tagging and 22 of this number happened during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mapoy also admitted that the ABS-CBN did several violations or wrong interpretations of laws but those violations were already settled and paid by the ABS-CBN Corporation.

In addition, NUJP said that the Republic Act 11479 or known as AntiTerrorism Act of 2020 can be a threat to life and freedom of its countrymen. As an example, they cited the incident of what happened to the two Aetas of Zambales, the first case in this law for an alleged shooting spree. They believed Section 4 of R.A. 11479 should also have arbitrary and discriminatory enforcement.

The shutdown at the time of the pandemic is such a painful thing to see. The accusation to the ABS-CBN results in a halt to the operation of one of the biggest media and entertainment networks in the country that caused the suffering of its employees that’s been part of the said corporation for the past years and decades. It also affects in delivering the latest information on the country and the world towards our fellow men. There are some areas where this broadcasting giant is the only provider who can give those updates. Even though BIR proves that the ABS-CBN pays their taxes, the statement from President Duterte gives the implications that they will have a hard time regaining its franchise.

In the case of Rappler, the digital media company stands that they maintained the 100 percent owned and controlled by a Filipino. They also stated that President Rodrigo Duterte falsely claimed they are foreign owned by the Americans in his State of the Nation Address in July 2017.

Today, with the use of different technologies such as social media platforms, there’s a lot of ways on how to spread word to others. Most people use this to create false information towards the other parties. The media outlet helps to fight against this and be an agent of change – which shows how important the press in our country, as one of its functions is to verify the authenticity of certain information. Through that, people will become educated and will not immediately fall on what they hear or read.

During his speech on World Press Freedom Day, President Duterte said that this administration will remain committed to promoting press freedom, one of these is protecting the journalists’ rights.

Most journalists have been red tagged and linked to different front organizations such as the Communists Party of the Philippines (CPP), the National Democratic Front (NDF), and the New People’s Army (NPA).

Journalists play a very important role not only to disseminate information, but to inform its citizens about the issues that need to prioritize and to have critical minds. It is their duty to exploit what is really happening. It should never be used as a basis to silence anyone’s voice, but rather to amplify voices.

The press freedom to the current administration during the pandemic is more of a danger rather than giving a protection to the Filipino journalist. The government needs to show more that they care and protect the journalists’ rights instead of just saying those things.

As the cases of violence towards the media practitioners are still increasing, it just shows how unsafe the country’s environment is for them. They should create a safe space for all of them and safeguard their welfare. They should be protected and not feel that they are in danger.

After all, the people in our country are the ones who are affected by such problems. In the period of pandemic, it brings fear towards people and the fear to speak up on what’s right. But, it should not be a reason to do what is necessary.

Stand for truth. Stand for change. Stand for the people.

— “It should never be

used as a basis to silence anyone’s voice, but rather to amplify voices.”

6

NEWS

TUP signs MoU with a Russian university By: Marizen Ira Chua

Technological University of the T hePhilippines (TUP) Manila signed a

Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Research University “Moscow Power Engineering Institute”, a pioneer technical university in Russia to help strengthen global academic and educational cooperation.

On December 28, 2020, the official signing took place via Cisco WebEx MPEI web conference platform. It was organized by Dr. Melito A. Baccay (VRPE) in partnership with Dr. Amerigo Tatel, founder of B2BVostok, a group dedicated in promoting, facilitating, and increasing engagement between the Philippines and Russia, as well as the CIS countries.

The ceremony was attended by TUP officials, including Hon. Zacharian John A. Belmonte, TUP Board of Regents, Dr. Dionisio A. Espression, Jr., Vice President for Academic Affairs, Prof.

Jonathan M. Monsad, Vice President for Administration and Finance, Dr. Leonor F. Validor, Vice President for Planning and Development and the Deans’ of the respected colleges in the university.

On behalf of their respective institutions, TUP President Dr. Jesus Rodrigo F. Torres and NRU “MPEI” Rector Prof. Nikolai Dmirtievich Rogalev signed the MoU. It was witnessed by Vice-Consul Mary Grace Perpetua and Economic Attaché Vida Cara of the Embassy of the Philippines, as well as Dr. Victor Sumsky, Director of the ASEAN Center at MGIMO and all the TUP and NRU “MPEI” Officials.

The MoU ventured opportunities through the development of mutual interests in the field of education and research with its key areas of cooperation: the implementation of joint projects, mutual exchange of students — undergraduates and graduates, sharing experience of each organization, conducting scientific researches, exchange of scientists, specialists, and trainings to become highly qualified scientific personnel.

Source: B2BVostok Group

TUP drives into future of innovation through CITE By: Askhiea Ashley Amistoso

UP-Manila officially introduced its T new CITE facility last September 2021,

led by Dr. Hasmin Ignacio, the university’s Project Leader of the Technopreneur Program.

The project’s core objective is to build the Center for Innovation and Technology Entrepreneurship (Incubation Center) as a training ground for faculty in an entrepreneurial research approach in modifying the curriculum via the incorporation of technopreneurship.

By providing quality training to faculty-researchers from the University’s different colleges and campuses, the CITE Incubation Center seeks to alter faculty value systems and establish a community of Research Technopreneurs.

The term technopreneur aims to combine the concepts of technology and entrepreneurship, which is a direct approach that involves a process of technological capability with entrepreneurial competency and abilities.

It is a modern age business strategy that utilizes technology to develop something for innovation. Once it achieves success, it can be used to generate income in the market.

This program will help the whole TUP community by strengthening research skills, flexibility, market perspective, and maximizing research findings for business incubation frameworks and models at large.

It will be a long-term initiative that includes the following services as income-generating ventures for the Center for Incubation: • • • • • • • • • •

Technical Assistance Help with regulatory compliance Help with business etiquette Intellectual Property Business Development Marketing Assistance Administrative Services Business Advice and Consultant Loan Assistance Seed funding Training Facilities Rentals

NEWS • • • •

7

Link to Higher Education resources Links to strategic partners Access to angel investors or venture capital Technology commercialization assistance

Its purpose is to empower new small start-up businesses in getting off to a strong start by offering a low-cost startup environment as well as a full range of support, consultation, administration, referral, and networking services.

The late Engr. Felipe Ronald Aragamosa, Vice President for Research and Extension at TUP, influenced the incorporation of this program through his vision for TUP to produce an output that increases the number of commercially viable research ideas and prototypes that will benefit the university and society in general.

TUP Community will be the primary beneficial target of this program as it fosters the following advantages: 1. A greater influence on researchers and a dynamic curriculum.

2. TUP will experience economic growth as a result of the increased commercialization of intellectual research and utility models.

3. In terms of societal development, researchers are technically prepared with entrepreneurship and may serve as mentors to other young researchers who have the potential to become technopreneurs.

“Get started with your out-of-thebox ideas, don’t be afraid of failing because failing will help you in your road to success.

Get out of your comfort zone and interact with possible customers and investors. Build a Team, not ego. Join our call for start-ups and build your minimum viable prototype.”

Dr. Ignacio stated for those students interested in the program.

The CHED IDIG program began in May 2018 and ended in January 2021 and has formally opened its facility at the campus in June 2021.

PHOTO: The newly renovated TUP court, which is currently unused due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Photo by Alvin John Medalla

TUP Court: Fresh New Look By: Mary Carinelli Gabatino

TUP Manila Covered Court and T heGround Stage were formally inaugurated

last April 29, 2021, at 11 in the morning.

Engr. Micunug D. Macud, South Manila District Engineer, awarded it to TUP President - Dr. Jesus Rodrigo F. Torres.

Hon. Cristal L. Bagatsing, Representative of the 5th Legislative District, City of Manila, also attended the inauguration and ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The whole project was part and funded by her General Appropriations Act early this year.

According to Engr. Ariel Dela Cruz - Director of Auxiliary, this project was conveyed to Engr. Joaquin D. Bunagan - Chief Engineer, thru Professor and Pastor Jedel G. Agron.

The roof framing system and roofing system were the main parts that were rehabilitated. The project also includes the repainting, installation of a perimeter fence, and installation of canopies fronting the Centennial Stage.

“The perimeter fences serve as protection for those players who are not in the proper dress code, and to those who are using the court for biking,” Engr. Dela Cruz said.

He also added that rules and regulations will be applied to the usage of the court when face-to-face classes will return. This will be devised by the sports director and will be subject to TUP President’s approval.

Moreover, Dr. Torres -TUP President, and Mr. Jonathan M. Monsad - Vice President for Administration and Finance, partook in the success of the negotiation for funding of this project.

Engr. Dela Cruz and Arch.

Elpidio Balais Jr., Dean of CAFA, were the university’s project management team and were the ones who coordinated with the DPWH Project Management team during the implementation of the project.

PHOTO: The old TUP court.

Photo by Alvin John Medalla

THE TUP TIMELINE

THIS PANDEMIC

The pandemic has put a halt to a lot of things we do every day, all our socializing schedules cancelled, nd many more.

However,our lives never stopped there. Just like how people still go out to pursue their jobs, we also had to continue with our education. Here in TUP-Manila, life goes on. Face-to-face classes were impossible at the height of COVID-19, which made online classes a must.

JULY 2020

AUGUST 2020

14 – The Office of the President had released a memorandum directing the concerned faculty members to conduct make-up classes to collate proof of actual academic class interactions.

6 – A memorandum has been released adjusting the period of enrollment and the academic calendar for A.Y. 2020-2021.

20 - 22 – Talakayan Ukol sa Pamantasan: Discussion on Term-end Report of Student’s Situation and Accomplishments of University Student Government for Academic Year 2019-2020.

SEPTEMBER 2020 7 – start of the classes for A.Y. 2020-2021.

OCTOBER 2020

1 - 2 – Virtual Student Orientation Program via MS Teams.

29 – Removal of the freedom wall

NOVEMBER 20

4 - 6 – Disinfection of University Premises

6 – University Meeting for the proposed academic

10 – President Torres is memorandum which st guidelines for the upco Academic Consolidatio (ACW).

The existing restrictions seem to last longer and longer.

Everyone’s plunge into the seemingly overwhelming loads of work even just inside homes has made a great impact on our well-being. However, arduous the situation may seem, it should not stop us from being extraordinary. Let us make the most of this season, improve ourselves, and discover things we never imagined possible.

Let us also not forget to take this entire situation as a tap on our back to remind and challenge us to eat healthy food, drink plenty of water, and get enough sleep. For it is only by taking care of ourselves that we can continue providing the world a marvelous fragment of us!

By: Jerry Mandap, Mellecent Legaspi and John Peter Magbuhos Design by Aildreen John Verde

MAY 2021

29 - 30 – TUP FSG Special Meeting and Deliberation.

MARCH 2020 9 – One-week suspension of Mayor Isko Moreno 12 – President Duterte announces a partial lockdown throughout Metro Manila from 15 up to April 14, 2020.

JUNE 2020

14 – Pres. Torres issued TUP order no.15, 2020.

the

g is held

c break.

ssued a tates the oming on Week

11 – TUP students made a social media rally demanding for an academic break instead of ACW and trended #AcademicBreakNowTUP on Twitter.

16 – CAFA Dean Ar. Elpidio Balais made a request from the CAFAmilya faculty to move the deadlines of schoolwork from November to December.

16 – The TUP President provided TUP order no.10 for “Enhancing the preventive and health protection measures against

20 – President Torres suspends ongoing online classes to make adjustments on the school calendar.

MAY 2020

APRIL 2020

27 – Konsultahang TUPian

26 - 30 – Several organizations joined forces to demand a mass promotion from the TUP Admin.

20 - January 3, 2021 – Christmas Break 23 – The VPAA reminded the Department Heads and faculty that no exams and requirements should be passed within the holiday break.

19 – The University made a fundraising drive for the victims of the Typhoon Ulysses.

16 - 17 – Celebration of the 119th Founding Anniversary of the University.

FEBRUARY 2021

26 – TUP Office of Regent requested for a one-week long suspension of classes for the respect for the Holy Week.

15 – Start of the 2nd Semester

28 – The VPAA forwarded a directive stating that ACW will be observed for March 29-31.

6 – Campus Visitation and Student Consultation thru MS Teams.

15 – Proclamation of the winners for the 2021 TUPUSG Election.

11 – Miting de Avance for the 2021 TUP-USG Election.

19 – End of the 2nd Semester for A.Y. 20202021.

13 – Election Day

13 – Election Day

25 – ECQ memo no. 6 The professors can give modules and workbooks but cannot make them as requirements.

The suspension of online classes is still effective.

DECEMBER 2020

17 – Pres. Torres made a letter for his response on the students’ petition for academic ease.

MARCH 2021

JUNE 2021

coronavirus” suspending all the work of the employees of all campuses from March 17,2020 – April 14, 2020.

15 – The Vice President of Academic Affairs (VPAA) announced that May 15 is the end of the 2nd semester.

No students shall be given a failed mark instead a mark of “IP”

020

5 up to April 14, 2020 – Cleanup Operation of the Campus. Office works, and classes resumes March 15 and 16 respectively.

JANUARY 2021 4 – Classes resumes

24 - February 7, 2021 – Semestral break

10 NEWS OFFICERS

PUSO wins big after historic, heated election; Victor pledges unity to a divided student body By: Romar Padilla

BERNAS, Emmanuel Kent USG President

SELOS, Christine Joy USG Vice President Head, Committee on Appointments

SENATORS

BALITAON, Janel Head, Committee on Students Right and Wefare

DIMAANO, Nestle Anne Head, Committee on Information

MONFERO, Maria Angelica Head, Secretariat

GARDE, Hertz Myrtle Head, Committee on Finance

DE GUZMAN, Alexandra Head, Committee on Sports and Culture

ot only did they win the election, but also the PUSO party did it in a N commanding fashion.

The recently held University Student Government (USG) election saw the PUSO party capturing 16 of the 17 contested seats; while their rival, KAMPI party secured a single spot in the university’s first ever online election filled with controversies as TUPians gave their final verdict last June 14 to determine who will next assume the places of the student’s highest governing body.

The first online poll drew critical accusations, allegations, and tirades towards both parties, as well to the Commission on Students Election (COMSELEC), criticizing their sudden announcement of election as the academic year comes to its end.

The COMSELEC in October last year postponed the election indefinitely; and seven months after the postponement, they finally gave the green light for the online election to push last June.

The controversial election culminated as the tandem of Emmanuel Kenneth Bernas and Christine Selos emerged victorious in the presidential and vice-presidential race, edging KAMPI’s Adrianne Bautista and Maria Nicole Escueta with a garnered 1524-572 and 1378-708 votes respectively.

Furthermore, Janel Balitaon (1517 votes), Nestle Anne Dimaano (1446 votes), Hertz Mae Garde (1444 votes), Erika Mae Orlina (1421 votes), Angelica Monfero (1363 votes), and Alexandra de Guzman (1342 votes), all hailing from PUSO party, grasped the six USG senatorial spots for getting the six highest votes from the electorates.

For the USG’s College Student Councils, Ivan Jiro Malabanan and Valerie Samonte won the CAFA gubernatorial and vice-gubernatorial post; John Lloyd Masipag and John

Michael Vincent Fontanilla prevailed as the COE’s Governor and Vice-Governor; and Bea Chryzsandra Araojo clinched the CIE’s vice-gubernatorial slot.

Additionally, an election recount certified the victory of Gian Carlo Verano (COS Governor), Thony Rose Ilarina (COS Vice-Governor), and Denver Comia (CLA Governor) after a tight race for their offices; while KAMPI’s Krizel Embang (CLA Vice-Governor) succeeded as the sole winner from their party, overturning the previous result - a win that prevented a 17-0 sweep of the PUSO party.

Meanwhile, Emmanuel Kenneth Bernas, the newly elected USG President, assures that he can unite the TUPians after the drama revolving around the election which saw his party attaining the majority of its positions.

“Our main duty as leaders is to unite our people; We will always promote an objective, shared, and optimistic USG; Panahon na to heal from the past election, I am asking na magtulungan tayo to achieve everything,” he said in an interview.

Mr. Bernas, the standard bearer of the 13th batch of PUSO party, added that his government is open for every student, citing that partisan politics is not welcome in his watch.

“USG should no longer be a story of a party; it should be the story of the students,” he emphasized.

The last time PUSO took an absolute majority in the student council was in 2012, that is why he said that his party will not waste this ‘great opportunity’ to lead every TUPians in the next academic calendar.

The government of Bernas will oversee and face critical issues once they officially assume positions, as online classes are expected to continue next academic year bringing another challenge to the newly installed USG.

Social media platforms were utilized during the campaign period and miting de avance, while Google forms and the student’s TUP email were used on the voting process.

CAFA Governor ORLINA, Erika Mae Head, Committee on Special Projects

MALABANAN, Ivan Jiro Vice Governor

SAMONTE, Valerie

CLA Governor A.Y. 2021 - 2022

COMIA, Denver Vice Governor

EMBANG, Krizel

COS Governor COLLEGE STUDENT COUNCIL

CIE

Governor

ARAOJO, Bea Chryzsandra

VERANO, Gian Carlo Vice Governor

ILARINA, Thony Rose

COE Governor FONTANILLA, John Vice Governor

MASIPAG, John Loyd

NEWS

11

WPS dispute intensifies as pandemic rages on By: Fercie Dale Bayron

1, China announced the start O nofMay a fishing ban on its waters which

include the West Philippine Sea wherein the Philippines protested against the moratorium.

According to the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Philippines rejects the fishing moratorium imposed on the West Philippines Sea from May 1 to August 26, 2021.

The protest came in after the President’s remarks regarding the issue were under fire for what was deemed to be inconsistent and lame response to the matter. Recently, the President restricted government officials from publicly speaking about the dispute.

However, the President clarified that the gag order did not mean that the administration will disregard the issue at hand.

Additionally, Harry Roque said that there is no tension between China and the Philippines and the administration’s critics are the one creating the “tension.”

In his statement on May 18, Roque said, “Pero sa labas naman po ng Pilipinas, alam naman po natin na may problema pero wala naman pong tension, hindi po gaya noong nangyari doon sa Scarborough Shoal. Ang ingay po ay nandito sa Pilipinas lamang,”

The territory dispute rose in March 2021 when Chinese boats were sighted in the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. filed a diplomatic protest regarding the alleged Chinese vessels fishing near Julian Felipe Reef.

Meanwhile, Senate President Vicente Sotto III proposed an oil exploration with China as it is beneficial for the country on May 18. The 60-40 division of resource sharing is suggested to maximize the country’s resources while avoiding China becoming hostile about the dispute.

PHOTO: Calls for goverment accountability for the ongoing WPS diasgreement of PH and CH were seen during President Duterte’s last State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 26, 2021. Photo by Alvin John Medalla.

PSA launches National ID System Applications By: Mary Josephine Bajada

he Philippine Statistics Authority T (PSA) opened digital registrations for Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) or National IDs last April 30.

“Authentication of identity,” the PSA clarified. The Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) IDs will give citizens simplified access to social welfare and benefits granted by the government through a single proof of identity.

Applicants will then be required to set an appointment at the nearest registration office for the taking of Biometric information such as fingerprints, photographs, and iris scan.

Validation of original copies of primary documents and at least one secondary document such as an applicant’s Voter’s ID will also be done on-site. Moreover, the said national ID application may be done through online application wherein a link will be provided.

In a briefing held on April 27, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Karl Chua stated that the system aims to collect demographic data from citizens who will apply for their National IDs and will also feature the launch of the PhilSys IDs.

“The PhilID is a foundational ID which serves as a valid proof of identity which would help ease transactions with both government and private sector through easier validation and authentication of identity,” the PSA explained.

People with PhilSys IDs will also gain eligibility for passports, drivers’ licenses, financial accounts, transactions for tax-related or employment purposes, admission in government hospitals, and voter’s registration. A National ID also gives the validity required in major transactions such as banks and will allow low-income families to access basic services from the government or other formal institutions.

On the other hand, student cardholders may also use the ID for applications in schools and universities. The new system will require the initial submission of basic information such as the applicant’s full name, sex, date and place of birth, blood type, and home address.

Chua added that the new system can help in the management of civilian financial support as well as the COVID-19 vaccination program. Complete enrollment of the population is expected to be achieved by mid-2022.

12

FEATURES

Every Vote Matters: How to Register and become Part of the Change While most people only need to fill out the CEF-1 and Coronavirus Self Declaration Form, there is also a supplementary data form for persons with disabilities (PWDs) and indigenous people.

By: Mellecent Legaspi

Make sure to bring the following in proceeding with the registration process: • • • • • •

Source: COMELEC iRehistro

I

n a democratic country whose leaders are elected by the majority of its people, it is important to choose the leaders that are fit for the responsibility of the positions whose service is rightfully due to the masses. Now, the first step in order to be able to vote is to register.

The voters registration for eligible applicants were resumed on September 1, 2020 on the basis of Resolution No. 10674, months after the strictest lockdown were imposed that was driven by the pandemic as per the Commission on Elections (COMELEC).

Normally, applicants go to the Office of the Election Officer (OEO) in their respective areas nationwide in order to register. But with the COVID-19 pandemic still going on, methods are provided for the ease of applications such as online application, and a mobile app was also launched.

A general requirement to be eligible to vote centers on the citizenship.

One must be a Filipino citizen, at least 18 years old on or before May 9, 2022, the day of election, and must be a resident of the Philippine for at least one year and a resident of the place one wants to vote for at least 6 months.

One must find the Comelec office and book an appointment. Generally, Comelec Offices are open from Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00pm. Within these hours, voters may submit their applications in their respective OEO. But be sure to check your respective areas for schedule of registration announcements and advisories in their social media pages to avoid inconveniences.

Before, when walk-in application was the sole method to register, voters can get the application form from their respective Comelec offices, fill it up there, have it entered in the system, allow for biometrics capturing, and a stub will be given after specific amount of time which validates one as a voter already.

Now, voters can print and download the Application Form from (www.comelec.gov.ph) and fill the required information. It is to be noted that the voters must not yet affix their signature or thumbmark into the application form as that must be done in the presence of the Election Officer or an authorized COMELEC representative.

• • • • • • • •

•

Accomplished forms Valid ID and photocopy of ID Employee's identification card (ID), with the signature of the employer or authorized representative Postal ID PWD Discount ID Student's ID or library card, signed by the school authority Senior Citizen's ID Driver's license NBI clearance Passport SSS/GSIS ID Integrated Bar of the Philippine (IBP) ID License issued by the Professional Regulatory Commission (PRC) Certificate of Confirmation issued by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) in case of members of ICCs or IPs Any other valid ID

For the sake of health safety protocols, the following items must also be brought: • • • •

Own ballpen Face mask and face shield Alcohol or hand sanitizer Water (to stay hydrated)

A website was also provided (https://irehistro.comelec.gov.ph/cef1) wherein one can accomplish the online form, however the voter still needs to go to the OEO to submit his/her application form.

FEATURES

And as time passed by and we’re still in the pandemic, and only days before the Registration period ends, a much easier and convenient method is provided wherein the voters can log in to a mobile application.

On June 15, 2021, at Tagum, Davao del Norte, the COMELEC launched the Android smartphone application which aims to speed up the voter’s registration process amid the pandemic, especially those with poor internet connection. Upon accomplishment of the registration form in the mobile application, a QR code will be generated which needs to be presented to the voter’s local Comelec Office to proceed into capturing of biometrics.

"The launch of the mobile app is very timely in the face of mobility restrictions brought about by COVID-19, because you will only need a smartphone to accomplish the form," said Marlon Casquejo, the who conceptualized the project.

However, the smartphone application was only initially downloadable online through MediaFire, until the poll body took it down on June 17, "in order to prioritize its use in the pilot areas identified by the Comelec."

For voters who’s local Comelec office is part of the pilot rollout, they can still download the application when they visit the said offices. 500 pilot areas were chosen for the pilot rollout which exclude Metro Manila from the list.

As of June 17, COMELEC said there were already 60 million Filipinos that are eligible to vote in the 2022 national elections.

One vote could make a difference. That may seem impossible, but a collective effort of every Filipino to vote for the best and responsible leaders will surely make a great deal. It is time, Filipinos, be responsible in voting as well as it could affect what future the country will soon be faced into.

Now, to be able to do all that, take the first step and register while you still got time!

13

A Ray of Hope from Maginhawa to the World By: Kratch Dave Gatbonton

Illustration by Florenz Christian Hutalla

significant ray of hope will emerge A when one chooses to find it in a gloomy room.

People are queuing below the sweltering sun hoping they can bring something to their starving families, differing in genders, ages, and even socioeconomic status. Some are still sleepy since they had been there before sunrise. Some give while others get.

Filipinos are still experiencing one of the world’s longest lockdowns due to the failed response of the Duterte administration in addressing the COVID-19 pandemic. The public's unheeded, famish, and out crying voices gave birth to a humble bamboo cart on a bustling lane.

On April 14, Ana Patricia Non commenced a movement aimed to succor, especially the poor who struggle to feed their families. A wooden cart that stands along the busy street of Maginhawa in Quezon City filled with canned goods, fruits and vegetables, vitamins, face masks and face shields, and other necessities essential in times of pandemic has risen. A week after establishing this initiative, nearly a thousand have sprouted not just across but also outside the country. East Timor opened their first ever community pantry that was inspired by the “Filipino bayanihan spirit.” Variations such as pet community pantry and cake community pantry have also appeared.

The sign "Magbigay ayon sa kakayahan, kumuha batay sa pangangailangan" has showcased the bigheartedness of each Filipino regardless of social class. The affluent and middle classes make up the vast bulk of donors.

On the other hand, farmers and fisherfolks who have been financially struggling did not forget to contribute; they send their catch and harvests to distant locations.

Some individuals in line do not just get; they are also active donors leaving things such as vegetables, fruits, and even money as a substitute as to what they placed in their bayongs, demonstrating not just compassion but also care and concern for the ones behind them.

Randy David, a Filipino sociologist describes the system of community pantry as faceless giving and discreet receiving. He also stated that there is no room for self-promotion or the compulsory acknowledgments that generally follow the mass delivery of emergency aid.

The continued accouchement of community pantries across the Philippines has captured not just the idea of Bayanihan but also the inadequate efforts and response from the current administration. The surge of this initiative should be a wake-up call for sufficient efforts and assistance from the government.

A significant ray of hope will emerge when one chooses to find it in gloomy room. But that ray of hope will not stay forever. It would last just for some time. We should not be afraid to voice out the malefactions of those who have power. It will enable an incompetent leader who will neglect the assistance we need to rise from an unfortunate situation if we would. We will continually curve our lips with fear and melancholy while contemplating how we can overcome an obstacle.

We deserve an everlasting ray of hope.

14

SPORTS

Source: TUP Gearhawks

TUP’s new e-sports team, a gamechanger despite being a newcomer By: Michael James Wagner

hey may be new in the arena but T hardened by adversities, they began to tear down their rivals and bring pride

to the TUP community.

TUP Gaming Enthusiasts Association Ring (TUP GEAR) is the accredited organization for e-sports and gaming in TUP, from the initiative of several students from the College of Science and other student gaming enthusiasts who started from scratch but paved their way to gain support from the TUPian community and other e-sports enthusiast outside the walls of the university.

TUP GEAR’s official Varsity Team, Gearhawks Esports, consists of esteemed managers, coaches, and dedicated student gamers who compete in different collegiate competitions representing the university. According to TUP GEAR, players who compete in the collegiate scene are investing a lot in every competition and are given ample time to prepare for their upcoming tournaments, major leagues, and even in finishing their academic requirements as students.

As of date, Gearhawks have already established its name and dominance in the e-sports arena by bagging several places and championships to different competitions.

In the mobile game Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, Gearhawks Red MLBB Team represented TUP Manila and the representative for Luzon leg champions finished 3rd place overall throughout the MLBB PH Student Leaders - School Rivals National Playoffs.

Gearhawks E-sports MVP League of Legends Team also finished 2nd place in the November 2020 ACES: League of Legends which was participated with 32 different universities and collegiate LOL teams nationwide. The e-sports varsity Teamfight Tactics player Joril “Yuril” Belen of the Gearhawks also bagged the 3rd spot for the September 2020 ACES: Teamfight Tactics winning over 6,600 RP Prize pool.

Dominating also in the mobile counterpart of League of Legends, MeetYoDogs Wild Rift Team composed of Gearhawks Esports Players finished 1st place in the November 2020 ACES: Wild Rift, with over ₱6,000.00 Prize Pool and participated by 64 different universities and collegiate Wild Rift teams nationwide. Succeeded by another 1st place recognition last January 2021 ACES: Wild Rift of the TUP MeetYoDogs Wild Rift Team , with over 14,100 Wild Cores Prize Pool, participated by 32 different universities and collegiate Wild Rift teams nationwide.

The team also started to take over the Valorant scene as the Gearhawks E-sports Valorant finished 5th place with 4 wins and 3 losses in the Group Stages and Playoffs combined in the University Alliance Cup Season 2 – Valorant. Harvin “Hrvssss” Isip, Gearhawks varsity Tekken 7 player on the other hand placed 3rd in the January 2021 ACES: Tekken 7 , with over ₱3,000.00 Prize Pool among 64 participants from different universities and colleges in the Philippines.

Adding up to its rack of awards was the National Campus Open Season 2 - Call of Duty: Mobile, where Gearhawks Esports CODM Team finished 3rd place in the NCO S2 CODM Playoffs Main Event.

As e-sports become more viable in this crisis because of the lockdowns and constant extensions of quarantine, e-sports is now dominating the world of sports as popular physical sports like basketball and volleyball are still not playable due to wide eyed pandemic restrictions.

TUP GEAR has now approximately 500 members and are continuously expanding to reach and help as many aspiring student e-sports gamers to establish their name in the online arena.

Layout and Design by Jezrylle Malazarte