TRC Back to School 2020

From school to screen 10:16 PM

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foreword For many of you, law school has always been in the plan and most probably, you have tried to equip yourself with as much secondhand knowledge on how challenging the journey must be. It’s the anecdotes from friends and seniors on bad recitations, impossible exams, mountains and mountains of readings, and professors who seem to have it out for them. Simply put, law school is no walk in the park.

This school year, we unwittingly welcome an added challenge to the already demanding study of law. We are in the midst of a pandemic that poses a far greater task than social distancing. The virus has forced us to retreat to our homes, some at the cost of work or opportunities. As we all collectively decide to power through our situation, we have to adapt in the ‘new normal’ of distance learning.

It will take a lot of getting used to - the trial and error on which spot in our homes is the most conducive for learning, fighting off the urge to lie down on our beds, or even things we cannot control like power outages and intermittent internet connection. But as we have already made that first step towards the coveted “ATTY.”, we must keep in mind that it is both a privilege and a responsibility.

Law school will teach you things beyond books and cases. It will teach you discipline, the value of hard work, the importance of making significant connections, and most importantly, humility. For the next four years, focus on building a strong foundation—which will be crucial in the bar exams and in law practice. When you feel too overwhelmed by school or this pandemic, remember your reasons for wanting to become a lawyer and the sacrifices made for this dream to come true. Let us not be defined by a global crisis, but rather by our response to it and how we, eventually, will overcome it.

On behalf of The Red Chronicles, it is my honor to welcome you to the San Beda College Alabang - School of Law. For this year’s back-to-school issue, we hope to ease you into the Bedan life and community by bringing you an update on current and relevant events, as well as articles that we believe could help you adjust to this very novel situation at hand.

Although the coming years will be difficult, it is also an opportunity to constantly recalibrate, adapt, and better ourselves. We wish that everyone will stay healthy and that may we all have the best of luck!

Alex Ang

Features Editor

The Red Chronicles The official student publication of San Beda College Alabang - School of Law 63A, St. Maur Building, San Beda College Alabang - School of Law 8 Don Manolo Blvd., Alabang Hills Village, Muntinlupa City, Philippines

Paul Nikko Degollado | Editor-in-Chief Juan Miguel Lopez | Associate Editor Nino Jorge Arevalo | Managing Editor

Alexandra Erika Ang | Features Editor Robert Jian Melchor | News Editor Maria Charmaine Maghirang | Literary Editor Eloisa Fe Buño | Senior Layout Artist Hera Marie Ydulzura | Art Director Janna Mae Santotome | Social Media Officer Joe Martin Cabaral | Circulations Manager

Annelyse Andal, Femme Angela Armamento, Franchezka Mae Celis, Katherine Lim Features Writers

Paolo Enrino Pascual, Sage Lingatong

Eunice Jumalon

Photographers

Literary Writers

Gian Carla Guido, Mary Evielyn Mateo, Jolykha Toa Sanchez Stephanie Pagdanganan

Gloriette Marie Abundo, Jariette Anne Abuan, Justin Heinrich Salazar

News Writers

Logistics

Ceasar Entila | Editor-in-Chief Emeritus Marryl Ann Ragpala | Associate Editor Emeritus Katrina Belarmino | Managing Editor Emeritus Ma. Christina Miranda | News Editor Emeritus Atty. Rafael Angelo Padilla Faculty Adviser

The Red Chronicles accepts original articles from students and faculty members. We also solicit comments regarding the articles featured in our issues.

Member: College Editors Guild of the Philippines

Students Participate in SBCA-SOL’s First Online Orientation Day

By Robert Jian A. Melchor

Newly enrolled freshmen and transferees took part in San Beda College Alabang - School of Law’s (SBCA-SOL) first ever remote Freshman Orientation Day last August 22, 2020. With the school not being spared from the restrictions of the “New Normal”, the Dean’s Office of the School of Law as well as the SBCA School of Law Government had to improvise in order to properly orient the incoming students while at the same time following precautionary measures amidst a global health crisis.

Organized by SBCA-SOL’s student leaders, the online event oriented the participants about the various rules and regulations inside the campus, the grading system and the important personnel of the School of Law. The event also featured speakers from the Dean’s Office, the School of Law Library, and the Guidance Office. Just as well, representatives from those accredited extra-curricular organizations of the School of Law, namely: the SBCA School of Law Government, the Legal Aid Center, the Human Rights Center, the School of Law Internship and Development Group, the Bedan Chorale, the Environmental Law Society, the Student Ministry, the SBCA Centralized Bar Operations, The Bedan Review, the Electoral SBCA School of Law Election Commission, the Law School Association of Working Students, the Council of Moot and Debate, and last but not the least, the official student publication, The Red Chronicles, presented their respective spiels. Rex Book Store, a well-respected retailer of law books and other specialty publications, through its representative, presented to the students their available titles.

Aiming to effectively familiarize all newcomers while simultaneously breaking the ice, the emcees from the SLG started games for the students to play on their respective Zoom screens. Such games were law-related so as to give the freshmen a grasp of the concepts they will encounter in the study of law. The winners received books as prizes, sponsored by the Rex Book Store.

A notable addition due to the circumstances placed on all by this pandemic, both the Rex Book Store and the SOL Library are participating in their respective book delivery and borrowing programs. Rex Book Store offers to ship orders at the customer’s expense to any point in the Philippines, with orders payable electronically through PayPal. Meanwhile, the SOL Library will allow the online borrowing of books from their collection, via requests run through the borrower’s personal Destiny Library Manager account. Such reserved books may then be picked up at the Library by the borrower who must observe strict health protocols. The SOL Library encouraged the returning of books on time, either personally or by courier service, as courtesy to other law students. An overdue fee of P5.00 will be charged for every day a book is not returned past the allotted time.

Adapting to various challenges and striving through adversity is a trait unique to Bedans, as pronounced by our Hymn proclaiming us as fearing neither fire nor blood. Clearly, the law student leaders who organized the event as well as the incoming students demonstrated that no pandemic could dampen the Bedan Spirit.

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Not Your Ordinary Commencement Exercises: Graduation In The Time Of The Coronavirus

By ROBERT JIAN A. MELCHOR Photos By JANNA SANTOTOME

The New Normal. That single phrase has given people more shock and trepidation than any other phrase in recent history., with the possible exception of Darth Vader’s utterance of ‘No. I am your father” to Luke Skywalker in The Empire Strikes Back.

The suddenness of the necessity to adapt has been difficult to accept for some as the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic went on and disrupted our daily lives.

However, the wheel continues to turn. Somehow, according to the immortal words of Jurassic Park’s Dr. Ian Malcolm, life finds a way.

So here we are, looking back on how San Beda College Alabang – School of Law Batch 2020 carried on with their commencement exercises despite the unfavorable circumstances. We talk now with Andrea Rosales, Mika Arevalo and Steph Gener, then prospective graduates of Batch 2020, to find out about their thoughts and experiences on finally donning the famed Red Toga for their graduation— at home.

Robert Jian Melchor: It must have been tough for you to simultaneously deal with your academics and the ongoing community quarantine. How did you manage it?

Andrea Rosales: The same way I dealt with it before the lockdown. From the start of the school year, I claimed that this is going to be my last school year. So, I studied as if I am already reviewing for the bar exams. I continued the same mindset during lockdown.

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Mika Arevalo: Just reading my book as usual.

My remaining subject didn’t have online recitations so there was no pressure to finish certain topics immediately and within a certain time frame. Also, I think because I had more time this lockdown and I was reading without pressure, I was enjoying the time I have to read. Except during exam week though! Hahaha Pressure kung pressure!

Steph Gener: In my mind, time at home is for rest, hence, the transition towards making it a place for studying was challenging. Rather than to feel even more discouraged that I only got to finish a quarter or barely even half of what I supposed to read, I just thought of it as an accomplishment. Thinking that hey, you tried, you didn’t give in and did what you were supposed to do. Don’t pressure yourself. It’s easier said than done, but you know your limits and if this is only what I can do for the day then that’s that. It was my way of motivating myself to try again tomorrow and maybe this time you’ll finish.

RJM: I hope you weren’t also dealing with other issues and sources of anxiety during quarantine….

Andrea Rosales: Well, it is human to feel scared and anxious at any time. But I did not dwell on those emotions. Just like I said, I claimed this to be my year. Fear and negativity are not entertained! Because COVID cannot and will not stop me!

Mika Arevalo: I was anxious for the health and well-being of my friends and family because COVID is terrifying. In terms of school, probably the online exams. It’s something new and the limited time

given to answer the questions is stressful, especially when the internet connection becomes problematic I wasn’t able to finish the midterm exams but I think it was a learning experience to not skip any answers anymore. Try to answer the question right away.

Steph Gener: Yes, definitely. It was hard to keep motivated during these uncertain times, but I always try to remember this quote I read: \“There will be times that you will feel discouraged, but that will always be a given. But even within those struggles, even just a little, find something that makes you happy.” It doesn’t have to be something big, even as simple as eating your favorite food or getting to watch your favorite show or even the sense of accomplishment you get from tidying up your room can be your little pocket of happiness.

RJM: I’ve seen Instagram stories of online graduation practice via Zoom. How was the experience?

Andrea Rosales: Graduation practice was fun!

It’s a different experience. I am just enjoying every moment, and just really thankful for the blessings.

Although, I still hoped that my parents can experience the actual, physical graduation rites. The grad ceremony is really for them eh.

Mika Arevalo: Online grad practice was fun! It was sort of informal. It didn’t feel like a “preview” of what graduation would look like probably because we weren’t wearing our robes yet. It feels weird to do it online but at the same time interesting. It’s something new! And I don’t have to wake up extra early for it!

Steph Gener: Doing the graduation rehearsals online was amusing since I got so see my friends and what they were doing at home. I think everyone is really looking forward to this year’s graduation since it’s going to be mostly done online! No one really knows what to expect since this hasn’t been done before, but I am excited!

On the 27th of July 2020, they graduated among the 242-strong Batch 2020, with our beloved Dean Ulan, the faculty and their families in attendance, clearly visible on the various thumbnails on their respective screens. While obviously different and less festive than a traditional on-site graduation ceremony, it is nevertheless as memorable and no less real than the physical one.

So there we have it. Here is to hoping that this “New Normal” practice doesn’t stay normal for long.

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answering the clarion’s call

By ROBERT JIAN A. MELCHOR

Last November, the world was a different place.

All were merely concerned with joining the Christmas shopping rush, planning the next drinking session or reunion. Little did we know what will be in store for us as we bid 2019 goodbye and greeted the New Year full of hope and optimism, happy in the opportunity given us to start anew.

Then, tragedy. The opening months of 2020 saw the brink of an international conflict, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, wildfires, civil unrest in numerous parts of the globe, even the sudden deaths of famous celebrities and the dreaded Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

Against this backdrop of uncertainty, passers of the 2019 Bar Exams

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took their Oaths, signed the Rolls and took their place as fledgling members of the Philippine Bar. But first and foremost, how did our new lawyers prepare for the Bar Exams?

For Atty. Sarj Mella, currently a Court Decongestion Officer in Muntinlupa, you’ve got to “do you”: “Everyone who came before you will have tons of tips which worked for them, but you know yourself better.

Strategize on your bar review based on your strengths and don’t compare your progress with others.”

Atty. Czarmaine Villalobos, also a Court Decongestion Officer in Laguna, says that studying smart is much a part of preparation as studying hard is: “Study smart because you will never be able to study everything. Take note of the bar chairman’s decisions and doctrines, favorite bar topics, and current events.”

Another newly-minted lawyer, Atty. Jea Diato, reminds the importance of rest and recreation while preparing for the Bar: “Never sacrifice sleep and your health. Allot at least one rest day every week for yourself, family and friends...”

All of them are commonly grateful to God and to a host of different people for helping them succeed in finally “acquiring the dot.”

Filled with gratitude, Atty. Aylwyn Valenciano, an associate lawyer in a law firm, says: “[I am] thankful, most especially to God for guiding and providing for me the whole Bar period, to my family who has supported me in all ways, to my boyfriend, to my friends who kept cheering me on, and to myself too for ultimately pushing through and not giving up.”

Atty.

Mella credits her parents, as well as the Bedan Community: “I want to thank, my mom, who has put me through law school, and my dad, who never failed to support me, as this was his dream too. My gratitude also to my professors, and my friends for their unwavering faith in me. Special shoutout to the 2019 Bar Ops crew, all of you were awesome.”

Atty. Diato concurs: “I am grateful to God, my family, my boyfriend, friends and the entire community.”

Likewise, Atty. Villalobos also acknowledges faith in helping her through the challenge of the Bar Exams: “All the glory and thanks be to God and all the saints, my family, my boyfriend, and my supportive friends.” she says.

Now as lawyers, they will have to contend with having to practice in the time of the pandemic. Our new lawyers face the challenges brought about by the new normal.

Atty. Valenciano, calls her adjustment a work in progress as sometimes, anxiety still gets in the way. She says that “being on a work from home arrangement, there are days where the fear of the present and the uncertainty of the future will cause me anxiety. I’ve learned to take each day in stride and let go of things that are out of my control.”

The key to staying sane during this time is to keep one’s mind busy by maintaining routines, Atty. Mella believes. She also started a small bake-to-order business.

“Workdays would necessarily entail working in the morning, mixing dough in the evening, and baking at 4am the next day so that I can still come to work early. I had to do a lot of adjustments in relation to the pandemic, both in court and in my small business, but I manage to take it day by day.” she says.

The pandemic has taken its toll on several people’s mental health and Atty Diato was not an exception.

Nevertheless, she says that she “stays positive as much as [she] can because the pandemic has not only affected us physically but also mentally.”

With the true Bedan spirit, the drive of our new lawyers was never dampened by the pandemic. In fact, it has presented opportunities for them to help the community as much as they can.

“When I was praying to St. Jude before the Bar, I kept promising that I will provide pro bono services to those who may need it, especially in this time of highly divisive politics and the stifling of free expression. I intend to make good on that promise.” says Atty.

Villalobos.

Ditto, Atty. Valenciano: “The long-term goal is to use this title to help marginalized people by providing legal services to them.”

With firm determination, Atty. Diato has echoed that she will keep informing people so that they may know their rights and responsibilities under the law. “As someone equipped with the knowledge, I plan to help by explaining to them what the law is, what the process under the law is and the consequences of those laws.” she explained.

Finally, with the added talent of culinary mastery, Atty. Mella intends to use it to do more for the community: “In cooking or baking, having people taste good food help alleviate their stress levels. Donating to several initiatives, however small, goes a long way too.”

Armed with the knowledge and the technique, our new Bedan lawyers are prepared to face the challenges of the new normal and beyond. Fearing neither fire nor blood, they are indeed ready to answer the clarion’s call, for San Beda, the country and God. The Red Chronicles | 7

VIPs in SOL

By FEMME ANGELA ARMAMENTO

Whether you’re a freshie or a transferee, you should know the individuals who form an integral part of our School of Law community. These are the important persons that you need to get to know in San Beda College Alabang – School of Law (SBCA-SOL). From one office to another, you will see them working tirelessly for our law school family.

Dean Ulpiano P. Sarmiento III, PhD Dean “Ulan” or “Papa Dean” is the current Dean of our School of Law. He also handles classes in Obligations and Contracts, Legal Research and Writing, Problem Areas in Legal Ethics, Conflict of Laws, and Civil Law Review 2.

You would usually see him early in the morning working in his office and sometimes around the library where he interacts with law students. He is both the endearing leader and father figure in our law school community. He prepares his students towards becoming brilliant Bedan Lawyers guided with high principles and brilliance.

Vice Dean Anna Marie Melanie B. Trinidad The School of Law community is fortunate to have a Vice Dean who’s not only intelligent but also has a warm and beautiful smile—one that can make a room feel lighter and better. One little trivia about her, she was a commercial model before pursuing the practice of law, and her timeless beauty always radiates. She teaches Criminal Law, Legal Technique and Logic, among others. Given her eloquence and wit, it would be an honor for anyone to learn under her wings.

Atty. Carlo Busmente Atty. Busmente is the current Prefect of Student Affairs and also a professor in Sales and Lease, Negotiable Instruments Law, Corporation Law, Law on Intellectual Property and Commercial Law Review Known to be calm and collected, he remains steadfast in guiding his students in the learning the intricacies of the law. Beyond being a professor, he is also a private law practitioner specializing in litigation. He also plays basketball well, so don’t forget to cheer for him when you see him in the hardwood.

Atty. Roben “Atty. Jun” Cadugo You might have already met Atty. Jun during the enrollment period. Atty. Jun’s career story started way back when he was already working as one of SBCA-SOL’s administrative staff. He has always been the one who accommodates students’ concerns even prior to becoming a lawyer. He worked while he studied the law, and such grit and resilience helped him pass the bar. Beyond supervising the affairs in the administration office, he also teaches Statutory Construction. Atty. Jun is indeed one of the pillars of our law school community.

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Ms. Janice Jihan Eson “Ate Ji” is the name she goes by. She is one of our ‘frontliners’ in answering almost every one of our administrative concerns in the office.

She is one of the people who would greet you with a smile when you visit the Dean’s office. With her unwavering commitment, she will be ready to hear you out, help, and answer your questions regarding grades, schedules, professors, sections, and many more. Soon, you will understand why she is the go-to person for most of the concerns you will have during your entire law school stay. So be nice to her, too!

Ms. Emmarie Sese “Emm” is the recent addition to the dean’s office. You can ask for her help with grade inquiries, following up to a professor, or any kind of law school administrative matter. Always remember to be nice and considerate when you ask for her assistance, because just like Atty. Jun before, Emm is a working law student. Nonetheless, she is reliable and friendly. Don’t be shy to ask for her assistance.

Mr. Leo Acuyan “Kuya Leo” is responsible for any logistics matter. He works tirelessly and efficiently for our environment to be conducive to learning. Most of the time, he is that one encouraging person who will cheer you on while you’re cramming cases in the hallway before your professor arrives. He is a helping hand and a big brother to everyone.

Ms. Sylvia Atienza The study of law is an uphill battle that is as physically and emotionally taxing as it is mentally. Ms. Sylvia is our guidance counselor. If you have any concerns, whether about the normal hustle and grind in law school or be it personal troubles, feel free to talk to her. She is our friend who’s more than willing to hear you out and be of assistance.

Mrs. Nella Abellita-Cobello Ma’am Nella is the records assistant assigned to the School of Law. As always, she readily extends her help to us law students with our registration and enrolment concerns. You can see her at the registrar’s office inside St. Benedict Hall. Always remember to greet her with a smile!

Ms. Marilyn Yap As law students, the library will soon become your second home. Ms. Marilyn is our diligent and persevering librarian.

You can ask for her assistance for any book/reading materials concern, any resources needed for your subjects, or reserving one of the conference rooms in the library. She is very friendly, accommodating, and ready to be of service.

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Five Reminders for Distance Learning

By ANNALYSE ANDAL

Back when the world was not as tragic and as messy, being a law student was already difficult enough.

Most of us are used to distancing ourselves from the comforts of our homes to spend hours in libraries or cafés in order to become more productive. We would wake up early in the morning to go straight to the library to finish our reading assignments for our afternoon classes. After class, we would quickly grab dinner and head straight to the café until morning to study for the next day. This was our usual daily grind.

Unfortunately, we are no longer permitted to do any of these things as we now brace the new normal brought about by the Coronavirus-19. We have been thrust into the virtual world and are made to embrace distance learning.

With this, we are sharing the following reminders to ensure that our study habits will remain efficient despite the shift to online classes.

1. Plan your day Most people found it difficult to be productive during quarantine as days seemed to be endless. We would lose track of the time but in law school, every minute could have been another codal provision learned and memorized. Before doing anything else, make sure that you take the time to lay down your goals for the entire day. It is important that you learn how to prioritize your tasks and allot yourself a reasonable time to accomplish them.

Make regular planning a habit. Jot it down on a sticky note or download a to-do list application. Check what you have accomplished throughout the day. This habit would help you become more organized, focused, and motivated. Most importantly, nothing beats the fulfilling feeling you get when you see that you managed to tick most of the tasks on your to-do list.

2. Manage your time wisely It is easy to be distracted by the internet because of social media, YouTube, Netflix, and online games. Turn off your cellphone or keep it on silent when you are studying and reduce time spent checking social media. Fight the urge to look at memes or to watch adorable videos of sleeping dogs and eating cats. Familiarize yourself with the course syllabus and the assignments for each class and stick to the study goals you have set for yourself.

It is also helpful to download the Blackboard Open LMS application which signs in to our personal accounts in the SBCA SOL learning portal. It is a fast and easy way to monitor your classes, assignments, and grades for the semester.

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3. Find an ideal study space.

Ideally, your study space should be separate from your resting space to create a more positive learning environment. But with COVID limiting our areas to just our homes, dormitories, or condominium units, we now have to set a place within our homes that is conducive to learning. Wherever that place may be, your designated study space should be organized, and all of your necessities must be within reach for easy access. Communicate to family members or roommates about your class schedule and the hours when you should not be disturbed. Treat your online classes like an in-person class and your study area as your classroom.

4. It’s okay to take a break.

Staring at the screen and reading for lengthy periods can strain our eyes. Sitting in the same position for too long increases the risk of chronic health problems. One of the positive sides of our current situation is that now, more than ever, we are in control of our time.

In making a schedule, make sure to include little breaks in your study session to eat snacks, stretch your legs out, walk a little, and even check your notifications.

5. Give yourself some credit.

When you are struggling to be productive, you have to remember that you are in the middle of a pandemic and you are not required to be productive all the time. You are expected to take care of your mental health and to prioritize your well-being. Do not beat yourself up. Do not be too hard on yourself.

But that being said, do not forget that you are a law student who is held to certain high standards. The rigors of law school—whether it be through face-to-face or online classes—are the building blocks of a career in the legal profession. Don’t be too discouraged when you have a ‘bad’ recitation. Instead, let it motivate you to assess your study habits, make the necessary changes, and do better next time.

The world is indeed full of uncertainties and endless possibilities. None of us know how long this pandemic will last. This new normal might take a lot of getting used to, but as future Bedan lawyers, we are always expected to perform and be at our best amidst every adversity – and we will.

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SEPTEMBER 2020