March 2011 Volume 4 No. 2

Delivering news that matters, as it happens.

PUBLISHED BY THE STUDENTS OF SAN BEDA COLLEGE ALABANG SCHOOL OF LAW, MUNTINLUPA, PHILIPPINES VOLUME 4, NO.2 MARCH 2011

Sen. Pia S. Cayetano A Real Pinay in Action A Women’s Month Special

SPECIAL FEATURE

Atty. Rome Batino Tribute

Portrait of A Bar Blast Survivor:

The Empowered Jokat Ledda

conflicts of law 2011

Ed i to r ’ s

n ot e

ThEm T

“ HEM”—a simple pronoun, which, if used improperly may cause certain prejudice, discrimination, pain and injury. We were considered as part of them, and treated differently—fragile and incapacitated to make real actions, and flighty enough not to stick to their decisions.

We were the emotional and sensitive, those who could not make logical determinations. We were considered different. We were thought to create our own reality, our own fantasy of being on our own, sometimes even belittled as brainwashers or as mere supporters. We did not have our own identity, as we only adopted that of our fathers, husbands or brothers. To do what they wanted us to do and we could not be who we wished to be. We kept silent with every blow and every bruise, believing that we deserved it.

We tried to make our little world possible, to stifle our personalities in order to maintain reputation and self-respect. We inhibited our intellectual capacity, accepted second-class education and authored works without recognition. We hid under pseudonyms and aliases. We avoided acknowledgement, as it was improper to act beyond our functions.

We gladly accepted our roles, remained inside our homes and took care of our families. We were thought incapable of handling great decisions, as we did things that allowed others to get carried away with their emotions, as we always did with ours. We brought humanity in every tough conclusion, which made us weak by tradition.

Before there was “US”, we were considered as THEM. Together, we were fighting for our own world against a number of traditions, hanging on to our sanity and happiness by a thin thread of hope. As the world evolved and people either accepted change or stood against it, the brave and courageous clung to what they once thought was fantasy—equality. The evolution of each one’s paradox has sent us back either back to where we were, or allowed us to move forward to a better horizon.

As the world evolved, a small part of US was slowly being recognized, but the struggle continues, not just in our country, but also around the world. The thin line of distinction continuously evolves. Soon enough, we will not be entirely part of them. Rather, we will be completely part of us. We will belong to those who seek equality to remove any and all forms of discrimination in a world made for us, not as a separate people, but us, united with humanity. We will speak in our voice and act on our own volition; we will help and empathize, not for our own good, but for all of humanity.

Now, behind every great man is a great woman, who, on her own has created a legacy single-handedly without masks, facades or external control. We are in the process of discovering our strengths and our advocacies. We celebrate our struggles, fears and independence from numerous centuries of battle for equality. Every single day, we move further to a better perspective. Every single day, we remove all unnecessary prejudice. We are one with every person, regardless of sex, gender, identity, belief or religion. We are part of US as a whole, as a people, and never again shall we be considered as merely a part of THEM.

Ne w s

SLG Elections 2011

CONTENTS On The Cover News

A

By CARISA BARCENA

2 3

SLG Elections 2011

Pound For Pound: 2011 SLG Elections

Tuition Hike

Embracing Change: A Seminar On The Need For Constitutional Reform

Dean Ulan Conquers New York City Marathon

‘Tis The Season For Charivari: SBCA-SOL Celebrates Christmas

2ForTaft

4

7 8

5 5

6

Editorial

The Red Chronicles invades

Nasugbu Batangas

9

8

Opinion

News Feature

11 12

The Reproductive Health Bill 13 Feature

15 19 21 23 Sports

25 26 27 30

Political Killings: Then and Now Rain Checked: A Weathered Forecast on R.A. 6716

week of fierce promotions and campaigning finally came to a close on Election Day, last March 2, 2011.

From 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, waves of students trooped to the ELECOM Office and cast their votes for their future School of Law Government (SLG) leaders and representatives.

After the polls closed, the ballot box was sealed by ELECOM officers and watchers, and was transported under security to the Moot Court in St. Bede Hall for the official counting of votes.

Apart from the official ELECOM staff, only a select few were allowed to stay and watch the count. ELECOM Chairman William Eusores read out the rules and regulations, before unsealing the ballot box. The counting commenced at 10:30 PM, and stopped briefly for a recess at 11:07 PM prior to the announcement of partial number of votes cast for each contender. Candidates Jom Gonzales, Paul Claudio, Dino Austria, Mia Lapus, Myron Gutierrez, Alfonso Orioste and Ian Basconcillo were in the lead. The official count ended at 12:34 AM. The final tally of votes is as follows: PRESIDENT Jose Ma. Ronaldo Gonzales Julie Ann Vogt

ABSTAIN: 20 Independent

203 votes

Katarungan

199 votes

INTERNAL VICE PRESIDENT Jan Paul Claudio

ABSTAIN: 24 Independent

198 votes

Jennah Marie Dela Cruz

Independent

110 votes

Pia Cayetano:

A Real Pinay in Action

Portrait of a Bar Blast Survivor:

The Empowered Jokat Ledda

Batino

Aron Kerr Menguito

Katarungan

101 votes

SECRETARY GENERAL

The Curious Case of Joaquinn Olaño

EXTERNAL VICE PRESIDENT Erastus Sandino Austria Erwin Jake Doctor

ABSTAIN: 24 Independent

205 votes

Katarungan

193 votes

ABSTAIN: 17

Marianne Rose Arcilla

Katarungan

177 votes

Melinda Mae Lapus

Independent

228 votes

Red N’ Luvin It

Intrams

Conflicts

Vox Populi

TREASURER Myron Gutierrez Leonardo Tapia

ABSTAIN: 20 Independent

217 votes

Katarungan

185 votes

3RD YEAR BATCH REPRESENTATIVE

OFFICIAL EDITORIAL BOARD Mary Sayeh Hassani Editor-in-Chief | Melquisedic Maitim Associate Editor. | Aretha Eugenio Managing Editor Ma. Katerina Santiago News Editor | Wilson De Jesus Asst. News Editor | Argel Joseph Cabatbat Features Editor Laisa Mae Aguila Asst. Features Editor | Joan Palacio Literary Editor | Exequiel Valerio Senior Photographer Andrea Joson Associate Editor Emeritus | John Joseph Sy Managing Editor Emeritus | Atty. Rita Linda Jimeno Faculty Adviser STaff: Josefina Alfonso Carisa Barcena Dugie Dela Cruz General Du Adrian Rio Dizon Raymond Santos-Estrella PhOTOGraphErS: Maureen Betita Philip Cariaga Miguel Llave Jeamie Salvatierra LaYOUT: Luvimindo Balinang Jr. Samantha Santos Carlo June Tibayan CarTOONiSTS: Bradly Listones Jonathan Vitug WriTErS/CONTribUTOrS: Mark Banzon Toni Verano Ron Esquevel Casleen Sta. Agueda

ABSTAIN: 2

Alfonso Orioste, Jr.

Katarungan

80 votes

Michellane Yara

Independent

59 votes

2ND YEAR BATCH REPRESENTATIVE Ian Zander Basconsillo Erwin Kristoffer Gomez

ABSTAIN: 5 Independent

62 votes

Katarungan

41 votes

2

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Pound for Pound: 2011 SLG Elections

Tuition Fee increase for academic year 2011-2012

By CARISA BARCENA AND MA. KATERINA SANTIAGO

W ith the end of this school year came a new set of contenders for the position of School of Law Government (SLG) officers.

15 aspirants were given the week of February 21 to February 28, 2011 to woo the School of Law (SOL) student body and win their votes for the 2011 – 2012 SLG Elections.

This school year, a more stringent application of the Election Commission (ELECOM) rules yielded a surprisingly colorful lineup of candidates. Unlike last year, when there were only two political parties to choose from, voters could now choose from the KATARUNGAN party and an assortment of independent candidates.

The ELECOM approved of the following candidates:

PRESIDENT Jose Ma. Ronaldo Gonzales (Independent) Julie Ann Vogt (Katarungan)

INTERNAL VICE-PRESIDENT Jan Paul Claudio (Independent)

Jennah Marie Dela Cruz (Independent)

Aron Menguito (Katarungan) EXTERNAL VICE-PRESIDENT Erastus Sandino Austria (Independent) Erwin Jake Doctor (Katarungan)

2ND YEAR BATCH REPRESENTATIVE Ian Zander Basconcillo (Independent) Erwin Kristoffer Gomez (Katarungan)

The fight for electoral victory spread to all corners of the SOL campus as candidates strived for maximum visibility and recall. They took campaigning to wherever an audience could be found – in classrooms, within the hallways, and even in the SOL Library. They also claimed digital turf through social networking media, such as the ubiquitous Facebook.

The campaign paraphernalia were even more exciting than last year’s giveaways. Aside from the usual pens, highlighters, ID straps and button pins, students were also treated to color-coded food, beverages, notepads, bookmarks, foldable fans, CDs, alarm clocks and tumblers.

The contenders finally squared off on the evening of Feb. 28, at our Multipurpose Hall. This year, the ELECOM adopted a sportier motif for its advertisements and décor, and turned the hall into a boxing arena where contenders had to step into the ring with their rivals. Classes were called off so students could attend the showdown and hear each candidate promote their respective platforms. Many of the proposals commonly being pushed for by all sides revolved around the upgrading of school services and facilities, transparency in the management of funds, improvement of the enrollment system, establishment of an operational grievance system, availability of academic aids and support, addition of student-targeted services, better representation, and faster communication and information dissemination.

SECRETARY GENERAL The event was rounded out by an open forum, where members of the audi Marianne Rose Arcilla (Katarungan) ence were allowed to ask questions to their candidates of choice, subject to

Melinda Mae Lapus (Independent) ELECOM-imposed limitations such as the use of profanities and deliberate provocation of the candidates.

TREASURER Myron Gutierrez (Independent) Regardless of who wins the match, the student body expects their would Leonardo Tapia (Katarungan) be SLG officers to roll with the punches and deliver their promises of good service and governance.

3RD YEAR BATCH REPRESENTATIVE

Alfonso Orioste, Jr. (Katarungan) Michellane Yara (Independent)

by Mary Sayeh R. Hassani

T

he San Beda College Alabang-School of Law has forwarded its intention to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to increase its tuition fee for the academic year 2011-2012. In view of this, the School of Law Administration had a multi-sectoral consultation meeting with members and representatives of the Student Law Government last February 18, 2011.

A ten to fifteen percent (10-15%) increase in the tuition fee was presented and explained by Rector-President Fr. Dom Clement Ma. H. Roque, OSB, together with the other members of the administration Dean Upliano Sarmiento III, Vice Dean Marciano Delson, Prefect for Student Affairs Atty. Bruce Rivera, Academic Director Dean Thelma Geraldine Baricaua, Finance Director Fr. Alberic Lazerna, OSB, Administrative Service Director Ms. Arylyn P. Gatmaitan, Comptroller Ms. Amelia F. De Leon and Human Resource Management Office Manager Luisito Padolina. In the said meeting, the administration delivered their proposal and the corresponding basis for the tuition fee increase.

Due to the rising cost of living and the inflation rate that currently stands at three to five percent, the value of the Philippine peso’s purchasing power has declined. The National Wages and Productivity Commission (NWPC) has also increased the minimum wage

by Php 22 in Metro Manila last June 7, 2010. This prompted the school administration apply the same increase in rate for incoming academic year 2011-2012.

AY 2010‐2011

Tuition Fee

Misc &

Total

Other Fees

Ateneo de Manila University 62,288.00

3,712.00

66,000.00

It was also relayed that the last time the School of Law implemented a tuition fee increase was last June 2008. For three years, the administration has tried to withhold the increase due to the economic recession by virtue of a collective bargaining agreement with its employees.

The administration has emphasized that 70 percent of the tuition fee increase will not go directly to the school. The same would be allotted for the payment of salaries and benefits of the SBCA-SOL faculty and personnel while the remaining 30 percent will fund the facilities of the School of Law. In the meeting the administration and the student leaders also discussed the possible expansion of the School of Law library and certain deductions in the miscellaneous fee to ease the burden of the students.

The administration also provided a chart explaining the fairly low tuition base of SBCA-SOL compared to other law schools in the Philippines.

The goal of the school in proposing the tuition fee increase is to “attract and retain competent if not excellent faculty members.” As our Rector-President has stated “Having a roster of good and qualified faculty is a prerequisite in having quality education.”

Misc & Other Fees

Total

Rate per unit (Tuition)

28,139.00

12,575.00

40,714.00

1,481.00/unit

AY 2011‐2012

32,359.85

12,575.00

44,934.85

1,703.15/unit

2,000.00/unit

Tuition Fee

Misc & Other Fees

Total

Rate per unit (Tuition)

1,816.00/unit

AY 2010‐2011

25,308.00

8,944.00

34,252.00

1,406.00/unit

AY 2011‐2012

32,078.46

8,944

41,022.46

1,616.00/unit

Tuition Fee

Misc & Other Fees

Total

Rate per unit (Tuition)

AY 2010‐2011

29,526.00

8,794.00

28,300.00

1,406.00/unit

AY 2011‐2012

33,954.90

8,794.00

42,748.90

1,616.90/unit

Tuition Fee

Misc & Other Fees

Total

Rate per unit (Tuition)

Rate per unit (Tuition)

Arellano University

Tuition Fee

AY 2010‐2011

(19 units)

3,712.00/unit

(regular load 16 units per semester)

40,000.00

7,500.00

47,500.00

(regular load 20 units per semester)

De La Salle University

(18 units)

34,553.00

34,553.33

(regular load 19 units per trimester)

San Beda College Mendiola

25,175.00

8,000.00

33,175.00

1,325.00/unit

32,756.00

3,988.00

36,744.00

1,724.00/unit

(regular load 19 units per semester)

University of Sto. Tomas

(21 units)

(regular load 19 units per semester)

San Beda College Alabang

28,139.00

12,575.00

40,714.00

1,481.00/unit

(regular load 19 units) 1st year

San Beda College Alabang (regular load 18 units) 2nd – 4th year

3

25,308.00 – 29,526.00

8,794.00 – 34,102.00 – 1,406.00/unit 10,956.00 40,482.00

AY 2010‐2011

29,526.00

10,956.00

40,482.00

1,406.00/unit

AY 2011‐2012

33,954.90

10,956.00

44,910.90

1,616.90/unit

4

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EmbraciNG ChaNGE:

A Seminar On The Need For Constitutional Reform

By DUGIE DELA CRUZ

“I

t h as been a quarter of a century since the 1986 EDSA Revolution and its great promise remains unfulfilled.” These were the words uttered by Atty. Rita Linda Jimeno when she delivered a seminar on the Need for Constitutional Reform last October 7, 2010 at the Padilla Hall, Office of the Senate. As one of the proponents, she discussed the background of the previous failed attempts to push for Charter Change (CHA-CHA) and then provided for pertinent solutions to address the issue.

In her expert opinion, the primary reason behind the failure of the Charter Change was primarily because it was proposed during the incumbency of former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. Since Arroyo’s administration was about to end, the move for Charter Change was construed to be her ploy to extend her term by becoming Prime Minister of the Philippines.

Citing the fact that there is already an unprecedented degree of public trust in the present Aquino administration, Atty. Jimeno revealed that the proponents of the said movement believe that now is the best time to pursue such change. In order to divert from the common misconceptions surrounding CHACHA, it was proposed that pushing for a Constitutional Reform (CORE) would be a better option.

The CORE emphasizes three major solutions, to wit: (1) replacement of our presidential government with a parliamentary government; (2) adoption of a decentralized system of autonomous regions and local governments to replace our highly centralized system dominated by the national government and; (3) the liberalization of restrictive provisions on foreign investments to make our country more globally competitive.

Atty. Jimeno pointed out that with these proposed solutions, the Philippines will be able to adapt to the changing times. She further explained that the roots of our problems as a “weak nation,” a “soft State,” having an “unconsolidated democracy,” wherein democracy was “at risk” are grounded on systemic failure. In order to create a strong leadership capable of good, efficient governance, free from corruption, a real system change is needed. And that change shall only be realized when the citizenry would open their minds to these solutions.

It has been a quarter of a century since the 1986 EDSA Revolution, however, its great promise remains unfulfilled. The Philippines is way behind in its vision of progress, not because we cannot change, but because of the simple yet distressing fact that we are afraid to accept the changes as they come.

Dean Ulan Conquers New York City Marathon

By LAIDA ISIDRO

O n November 7, 2010, our very own Dean Ulpiano Sarmiento III ran with the pros in The 2010 ING New York City Marathon. He was one of the remarkable 44,764 individu-

als from around the world who participated. Dean Ulan, runner no. 61890, conquered the marathon with an incredible time of 6:56:04, placing overall at 44,186th place. His two children, Storm, 18, and Sarah, 20, reached the finished line with almost the same clocking, both at 06:56:06, placing them at 44,188th and 44,189th places, respectively.

It is undeniable that the New York City Marathon is the place to be if you want to be part of something big. To begin with, the New York City Marathon is the largest of all marathons in the world, which is likewise an indispensable part of the World Marathon Majors series. Plus, it’s held in New York City. You get to see a lot of it as the course passes through all five boroughs and shows off some magnificent skyline views along the way.

The marathon course makes up a great sightseeing tour and runs through parts of the city that many tourists would otherwise never have seen.

The 2010 ING New York City Marathon 26.2-mile marathon course started at the Staten Island, over Verazano-Narrows Bridge to the sound of Frank Sinatra singing ‘New York, New York’ and into Brooklyn and Queens. The route then goes over Queensboro Bridge for a roundtrip on Manhattan and a short stop in the Bronx before reaching the finish line outside the famous restaurant Tavern on the Green in Central Park.

The next ING New York City Marathon will take place on Sunday November 6, 2011.

5

‘Tis The Season For

Charivari:

SBCA-SOL Celebrates Christmas

By RIO DIZON

F

or Christmas 2010, San Beda College Alabang – School of Law (SBCA-SOL), the School of Law Government (SLG) and The Red Chronicles played Santa by giving away a bounty of holiday treats.

The week before Christmas vacation was without academics. The three days of Lex Celebrationis, consisting of the annual Sportsfest and Ms. SBCA-SOL Pageant, was a refreshing present to the exhausted minds and bodies of the students.

However, play and relaxation weren’t the only gifts SBCA-SOL gave. The SLG also organized a Christmas party on December 16, 2010 at the multi-purpose hall of the St. Maur Building. The theme for the event was Charivari: Naughty or Nice, which encouraged students to wear silver and white if they were nice, or black and gold if they were naughty.

The night began with a solemn Mass celebrated

by Fr. Olegario Z. Commelaran, OSB at the St. Benedict’s Chapel. Afterwards, the Prefect of Student Affairs, Atty. Bruce Rivera, announced

the awarding of semestral Dean’s Listers. Dean Ulpiano Sarmiento III handed out the medal and certificates.

Dom Clement Ma. H. Roque, OSB, was also present to deliver an inspirational Yuletide message.

Later, students proceeded to the St. Maur Building for the Christmas party. The multi-purpose hall was decked with lanterns, Christmas lights and decor. A buffet of sumptious food lined the walls, while fine-dining tables filled out the rest of the hall.

Much fun and laughter was had that night as the attendees were entertained by games, performances from various students and the SBCASOL Chorale, magic tricks staged by freshman Harry Temperamente, the Sportsfest awarding ceremony, and a raffle. Tumblers from the SLG and binder notebooks from The Red Chronicles were also distributed. As one last present to the student body, SLG President Mayo Arellano announced some exciting events for the first quarter of 2011, particularly the Fun Run and Conflicts of Law.

As with any family celebrating Christmas, two of the most cherished parent figures of SBCASOL officially set off the event. The opening prayer was given by the beloved Prefect Rivera while the opening remarks were delivered by SOL’s doting father, Dean Ulan.

Other professors came to celebrate with the students. Among them were Ambassador Amado Tolentino, Ambassador Rolando Gregorio, Judge Gina Palamos, Atty. Joan Chan, Atty.

Melanie Trinidad, Judge Wilhelmina Jorge-Wagan, Atty. Risel Castillo-Tale on, Atty. Nicasio Cabaneiro, Atty. Saul Hofilena and Justice Rodrigo Cosico. Rector-President

6

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O PINIO N

RUNNING FOR JUSTICE:

twofortaft

by Ron Esquivel

I

t was half past one in the morning of February 20, 2011 and I was inebriated and ecstatic from attending the launching of The Red Chronicles’ first literary folio. Though it seemed a cool way to be during the weekend, it was not. A few hours later, I had to fulfill a moral and self-imposed obligation to attend an important event, and inebriation was definitely not an excuse to miss it.

I attended and actively participated in the fun run, “Two For Taft”.

Two for Taft was a run-for-a-cause event aimed at raising two million pesos for the victims of the Taft explosion, which left almost 50 people seriously injured. Most of the victims were female law students, and members of The League of Lady Barristers Sorority. Some of the victims were present, including Joanna Katrina Ledda and Raissa Laurel, both members of the aforementioned sorority. The money raised will be used for the rehabilitation and support of the victims for their speedy recovery, including medicine, therapy and equipment.

The event opened with a stretching routine, followed by a few remarks from Manila City Mayor Alfredo Lim and Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero. The race officially kicked off with the 10-kilometer runners, followed by the 5k runners, and the 3k runners, of which I was a part of. We sprinted along the area of the CCP, passing through different streets and venues such as Harbor Square, Roxas Boulevard and the World Trade Center.

Thousands of people supported the event. Most of the attendees were from the law community, including Joanna Katrina Ledda and Raissa Laurel who were both injured in the incident.

Other participants came from various walks of life, such as running enthusiasts, children, senior citizens, public authorities and officials, even pets! Our very own Prefect of Student Affairs, Atty. Bruce Rivera, participated in the 10k course. Atty. Risel Castillo-Taleon, one of the advocates of the event, was also present to give the victims the morale boost and support that they needed.

Aside from keeping the participants in good shape and helping the victims of the incident, the event also reminded us that the fight for justice is not over. The heinous act was an attack not only on its victims, but also against the legal profession in general. A concerted and sincere effort to apprehend and punish the perpetrators is the best way we can do help our injured brethren.

Let the victims serve as living reminders to each and every one of us that our support should not stop at special events and monetary aid alone. While the race for justice has already begun, the finish line is still far from sight. Together, let us continue the fight and finish the ultimate “race” for justice for our injured brethren.

7

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TO

R

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POLITICAL H A RA K I R I T

he death of former AFP Chief Angelo Reyes created mixed emotions among the Filipinos.

Others adjudged it as an admission by silence, while some interpreted it as a final act by a man with principles who would rather die than live with a tarnished reputation. It is said to be a Western military principle of “death before dishonor” or as the Japanese Bushido code would describe as “loyalty or honor before death.” But to which people did Angelo Reyes, by his suicidal act, truly give his loyalty?

With recent political developments in our country, we often wonder how the corruptors and abusers of power continue to live their lives with hidden shame, if there is shame at all. Even the most honest, principled and blameless man in our country will be eaten by this sick system as corruption is actually a way of life. It is only in our country where debates and arguments fiercely ensue between men who perpetrate the same acts. The moral compass of most of our officials seems to be broken, as greed is continuously justified by proper moderation.

We are used to shifting blames without proper accountability. Everything is handled as a PR crisis. When a person is being accused and grilled in public, we try to shift the focus by giving way to bigger, more dramatic issues. The AFP issue erupted with the plunder charges against and

the bungled plea bargaining agreement in favor of former AFP Maj. Gen. Carlos Garcia. Since then, all the other skeletons in the corruption closet have been pulled out in the open, one explosive testimony after another. Unfortunately there was an unexpected and tragic twist of events, but then what happens next? What will happen to the testimonies of Heidi Mendoza and Ex-Col. George Rebusa? What will happen to the other accused like former AFP Comptroller Jacinto Ligot? Is this another issue that we will just completely let go of?

then, we should at least preserve it now by making sure that someone will finally be held liable and would actually go to prison for this. Let us move forward from this. If not, at least let all the corrupt officials do a political hara-kiri on their own. It would save us the time and perhaps it would preserve their dignity, assuming arguendo of course that there is dignity worth preserving in the first place.

We had been too forgiving since EDSA I, 25 years ago. We had already won our democracy

The Red Chronicles Invades Nasugbu, Batangas The Red Chronicles team held its first ever writing and team building workshop last December in Nasugbu, Batangas. The group, together with guest moderators/advisors Atty. Pambie Herrera and Ada Angeles of The Barrister, enjoyed the sun, sand, and the company of each other through numerous activities that strengthened the bond of the team. Upon nightfall, the Muffins gathered at the villa for brainstorming activities about future articles and pointers from both moderators on how to make the publication better for the readers. After the hefty dinner, Angeles conducted a comprehensive and informative lecture on basic and effective writing styles for each section of The Red Chronicles. Atty. Herrera prepared a series of writing exercises which included a mock press conference wherein

By GENERAL DU

everyone drafted their individual news articles. Both guest moderators capped off the workshop by sharing poetry and encouraged everyone to create a literary piece of their own and share the same with the group through a poetry-writing exercise.

The comical bonus of the night was a performance of the song entitled ‘Bengga’, an original composition by Chuck Valerio, Ian Silva, Theo Joseph Cabasa and General Du, which was humorously applauded by everyone.

The Muffins departed Batangas the morning after, with sharper writing skills, refreshed and in high spirits—having forged a closer bond with each other and a stronger passion for The Red Chronicles and its service to the students of SBCA-SOL.

8

O P I N I O N

W

WOmEN&the RH Bill

e are in the 21st century. Women now occupy posts which used to be exclusively men’s domain. In universities, females equal, if not outnumber, the male population. Women have joined the workforce in addition to performing their roles as mothers and wives. In the Philippines, we have had two female presidents while older and more advanced civilizations have not entrusted their national leadership to the female species.

Yet, in an issue which affects maternal health and responsible parenthood, the Filipino women advocating for the passage of a law to address their need, are struggling to be heard. What gives? Is the Reproductive Health Bill really the evil it is painted to be?

In the professorial chair lecture delivered by lawyer Elizabeth Aguiling-Pangalangan at the UP College of Law, she presented stunning data and stories that must be considered by those who are against the reproductive health bill.

Susan is married to a buko or coconut vendor who earns between 100 and 300 pesos a day. Together, they have eight children. After her fifth pregnancy, she wanted a tubal ligation but by then Executive Order 003 was already in effect in the City of Manila. This Order, passed in 2000, banned all methods of artificial birth control. Thus, Susan gave birth to yet three more children. Her family subsists on half a kilo of rice daily. She feeds her children first and when there is no leftover, she is either forced to ignore her hunger fangs or to beg for food from their neighbors. To state the obvious, Susan’s entire family is severely malnourished.

are unplanned. The Philippines is ranked as 67th in the world in terms of maternal mortality with 230 deaths for every 100,000 deliveries. In terms of infant mortality we are ranked 97th with 23 deaths for every 1,000 births. The incidence of maternal deaths from abortions is alarmingly high because of unwanted pregnancies, especially among young girls, attributable to the absence of information and means to prevent pregnancies.

Abortions, being unlawful, often happen in the hands of unskilled, unlicensed “practitioners” who perform their trade under unsafe and unhygienic conditions.

Is the Reproductive Health Bill really the evil it is painted to be?

The reproductive health bill aims to establish a national policy on reproductive health and seeks to promote an informed choice among women and couples. The bill does not compel individuals or families to resort to family planning methods. Rather, it allows them to make decisions on whether to employ contraceptive methods or not in establishing their families.

Pangalangan said that reproductive health rests on the recognition of the basic right of couples to decide freely and responsibly the number, spacing and timing of their children. It also rests on the availability of information and the means to make these decisions. Poor couples can only rely on government health centers to provide them information and the means of family planning. But, until the bill becomes a law, the impoverished masses will never have the chance to make the choice of planning the number and spacing of their children because government health centers and hospitals simply do not offer this kind of support.

almost

Tina and her husband have seven children. They would have planned the size of their family but because of the ban on contraceptives in Manila, she had no access to free or affordable means of birth control. They subsist on a daily budget of 150 pesos from scavenging. For breakfast they—including their seven growing children—share three sachets of coffee and a few pieces of pan de sal or bread rolls. For lunch and dinner they make do with little rice and soy sauce or salt. Often, they miss a meal. Their eldest son died of rheumatic heart disease while her sixth child who was born underweight remains sickly and weak.

800,000 births

annually are unplanned

According to statistics cited by Professor Pangalangan, the Philippines is the 12th most populated country in the world. At the rate of three births per minute, the Philippines now has 97,976,603 people. Statistics further reveal the following data. Half of the Philippine population is below the age of 21, and 23 per cent of the youth engage in pre-marital sex. Thirty six per cent of Filipino women between the ages of 15 and 24 conceive before marriage and half of pregnancies, or almost 800,000 births annually, 9

In a survey by Pulse Asia, 93 percent said the ability to plan one’s family for its welfare is important while 90 per cent said that the ability to plan one’s family for the country’s welfare is important.

Eighty-three per cent said that it is the government’s duty to provide knowledge, services and materials for modern family planning methods, both natural and artificial.

Reproductive health is a right, a human right, that has basis in the 1987 Constitution, the Magna Carta for Women, as well as in international treaties. But if the right to reproductive health is embodied in our very Constitution, laws and the international treaties, why has the bill not become a law?

Let me not venture a guess.

O PINIO N

Trapp E d

iN

a

bOX

It makes sense to categorize things. Grouping and identifying is important for organization and for keeping structure in many, if not all, aspects of life. Classifying human beings is a different story. In a general sense, definitive and directly measurable attributes may be used to group people. Age, sex, color, weight, height. But when it comes to facets of the human psyche—spirituality and sexuality, the lines are blurred.

It is rash to say that abstract human characteristics are products of choice. One cannot simply will to be one thing, when he tends to be another. Say perhaps with the human psyche. If one tends to be neurotic, it is simply because he is. And even if he is, it is impossible for one person to display neu-

rotic tendencies alone. There are a myriad of other different psychological conditions that interplay within each human mind, asserting dominance at variable times. So what is a person, psychologically then if that is the case, but just a person who uniquely thinks like he does.

With the case of spirituality, it is the complication of free will, a personal relationship with God, past experiences, and culture that are all enmeshed in different intensities that make a personal belief system unique. It is futile to homogenize a religious group—to impose a set of rules for the members to follow since people think and feel differently.

It is ironic to preach how a God loves each individual and yet impose guidelines on religious conduct, to emphasize that free will makes affinity to God more meaningful and yet threaten disobedience with eternal damnation. Culture is influx. Religion can be defined on paper. But spirituality is a virtual soup stirred by the divine within an individual.

Sexuality is the twin of liberalism nowadays. Sexual preference is an extinct term.

One does not prefer to be attracted to a particular gender, one simply is. The accurate

term is sexual orientation. But sexual orientation is but an element in defining human sexuality. Mentally, how different is a man from a woman, from a homosexual or a bisexual?

Socially, what protocols and conduct should a man or a woman observe? How should a man speak? How should a woman walk?

Where does one draw the line? Nowhere.

Because there is no boundary, only physiology—the endowment of male and female parts, and hormones. And even so there are anomalies. Additionally, the body is a slave to the mind, and the mind to the heart.

Sexuality is never a choice. But to counteract one’s nature is always a conscious act.

In the animal world, instinct is the driving force for action and gender roles are consistent with physiology. Spirituality is nonexistent.

Part of what makes humans what they are is the freedom to think and act in a way that is comfortable for them. Each person is uniquely programmed by forces that man can only form theories about. To put labels on people is to box them in, restricting both input and output of learning and enlightenment. A person is simply what he or she is.

exceptionally fragile When we talk about emotions, gender always becomes an issue. The debate on whether the state of being emotional is a sign of weakness has been interminable.

Generally, men appear to be more reserved when it comes to expressing their feelings, while women are more open in showing how they feel.

We cry when we’re sad. We scream when we’re frustrated. We get irritated when things do not go our way. But do these things necessarily exhibit weakness? Does being emotional make women the weaker sex?

Mark Twain once said, “any emotion, if it is sincere, is involuntary.” The statement reveals so much about women and their emotions. Women have been known to carry their hearts on their sleeve. And more often than not, when our emotions get in the way, something major comes out of it, good or bad.

Admittedly, we find it hard, and sometimes next to impossible, to control our emotions. But during those times that we are able to, we feel as though we possess a certain degree of power. And that power

serves as proof, that women are not slaves of emotions, rather, reflections and portraits of sincerity.

Control means power. And this power shows that women, no matter how emotional we may be, are strong. A strong woman is independent, confident and determined. We know what we want, and what to do about it. More importantly, a strong woman does not ask whether she is strong or not, she just knows that she is. So what if we cry buckets of tears after a break-up? Or watch all those sappy movies and listen to those sad songs and felt that the directors and composers read our diaries? What is important is that we bounce back. Because as women, we let out our emotions in order to recharge. So that after all the drama, we come back in the game stronger and better.

And so I ask again, does being emotional mean that women are vulnerable?

I say no, because being emotional means being real, being genuine. Being able to convey our emotions and feelings proves that women are unfeigned. When we are happy, we don’t just give a little smirk, we laugh our hearts out. When something

makes us sad, we don’t just sit in one corner and cry, instead, we get reinforcement and have them serve as audience for the day’s drama-rama. For us women, the ability to express how we feel, does not only make us empowered, but more importantly, it makes us become more human. Because as humans, it is not enough that we feel, it is also important to channel and communicate these feelings. After all, that is what makes us unique.

And so to every woman who thinks her emotions make her weak; remember that being emotional is only a weakness when we allow our emotions to take over our lives. We only become inferior when we allow ourselves to live according to what the society tells us. And we cease to be real when we hold back.

And so the next time the question comes up we say,

I am emotional. I am exceptional. I am woman.

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Fe at u r e

Poltical killings: Then and

now

by Raymond Santos Estrella

I

t is a sad sign of the times when we look back at the past and find that under similar circumstances, something better should have been done. Such was true of ancient civilizations, with their descendants calling the time of great feats of heroism, patriotism, and self-sacrifice a golden age. At its core, it speaks not only of an admiration for the characters belonging to those times, but also a tinge of envy and regret at how things have turned out in the present day. These tales would also serve as milestones—arbitrary standards by which we can compare our advancement and how far we have yet to go.

At this point, however, the reader is warned that the following stories will paint a conspicuous lack of progress in our political climate and the pursuit of justice.

In 1949, Negros Occidental was a province second to none. It was the epitome of the country’s steady march toward progress.

While the whole country was still reeling from the damage wrought by the Japanese occupation, Negros Occidental was quickly on its feet. All this, it was claimed, was through the efforts of Governor Rafael Lacson.

However, not everything was bright and cheery for the Visayan province as Lacson ruled with the proverbial iron fist. He had his own private army. He controlled the local police, and the local constabulary answered to him. He had won in the last election allegedly because of the people’s support but truth be told, he won out of fear and force.

His harshness with the populace was well known but then-President Elpidio Quirino knew he could be relied on for a solid vote on election day. Thus, Lacson was allowed his excesses and his political future, it seemed, was quite assured.

The 1998 elections. With Joseph Estrada assuming 13th President of the Philippines, political ally Andal Ampatuan, Sr. became Governor of Maguindanao. Three years later, the second EDSA Revolution came to pass and Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo assumed the Presidency. Ampatuan, Sr. rightly aligned himself with the new chief executive.

Holding up his end of the bargain, Ampatuan ensured that Arroyo dominated the 2004 elections in Maguindanao. The same result came about with a sweep of the 2007 elections by Arroyo’s senate slate, Team Unity.

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As if seeking to encourage his family’s reign over the region’s politics, he was grooming his eldest son to run for governor in his stead once his third term was over. His other son, Zaldy Ampatuan was then already holding office as the governor of the ARMM. The Ampatuans would eventually control of Maguindanao for years with the aforementioned players in the highest posts and eighteen mayors of the same province belonging to the Ampatuan clan. They were solid.

Into this seemingly impenetrable landscape would arrive men who would attempt to shake the established order.

Moises Padilla was a local guerilla leader who had fought against the Japanese occupation in the Philippines. Desiring to begin a series of reforms to end the regime of fear and bring back true freedom to the province, he filed his candidacy for mayor of Magallon, Negros Occidental. The people, tired of the police-state Negros was becoming, were rallying in support of Padilla.

Incensed at the pest that Padilla was turning out to be, Lacson notifiyed the former to withdraw his candidacy if he wished to remain among the living. The steadfast man that he is, Padilla continued his campaign in light of the governor’s threats. He had, however, an ace up his sleeve.

F e at ure To hide the evidence, a backhoe was to be used to dig the victims’ graves along with their vehicles.

Finally, Padilla reached his Calvary. Bruised and beaten, Lacson’s men seated him upon a bench in the town plaza where he was shot to death.

Magsaysay had heard of what was going on in Negros and was already racing to reach the province. He was, however, too late. He came upon the body of Padilla, still on the same bench. No one had the courage to care for his body, lest they be the target of further reprisals. Padilla’s body was swimming in blood, pierced by fourteen bullets.

Magsaysay himself carried the body of Padilla with his bare hands and delivered it to the morgue. News clips showed Magsaysay’s pictures holding Padilla’s body the next day. Some say the picture was staged but when related with Magsaysay’s past and future actions, it was truly iconic of his concern for the common man and a deep-seated desire to alleviate the plight of the oppressed and downtrodden. “When I carried the body of Moises Padilla in my arms, it was not the body of Padilla but the body of the humble people of my country.”

Magsaysay would eventually become the seventh President of the Republic.

Moises Padilla pleaded for assistance from then Defense Secretary, Ramon Magsaysay.

He wrote that all he wanted was an honest election, a chance to serve the people, and to show that dictatorial powers in a supposedly democratic country should not be tolerated. Magsaysay, in turn, sent a bodyguard and more than 300 marines to Negros Occidental to ensure his safety. However, three days before the election, they were sent back and Padilla was left without protection.

It goes without saying that Moises Padilla lost the election. Losing, however, wasn’t the worst of his problems. He was picked up

by Lacson’s men, his hands were tied, and forced to march from town to town. Townspeople would line the road of this grisly procession and watch in silent horror as Padilla was repeatedly beaten. They were reminded, once more, that this is what happens to those who defied Lacson.

When George Santayana wrote the immortal words “[t]hose who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it,” he certainly could not have conceived of the events in Negros nor in Maguindanao. Time and time again, however, his wisdom has proved true.

Seeking to finally end the Ampatuan regime, Esmael Mangudadatu announced his intent to enter the gubernatorial race. Needless to say, he received threats that his rivals would chop him into pieces should he proceed with his plans. Mangudadatu arranged to have a contingent of people cover the filing of his certificate of candidacy. This included his wife, relatives, lawyers, and journalists. The sheer number of people and publicity, it was believed, would deter any threat of reprisals.

On November 23, 2009, a convoy left for Shariff Aguak. Several kilometers away, they were blocked by over a hundred armed men.

The group was bodily removed from their vehicles and systematically liquidated. According to later investigations, some of the victims were raped, shot, and/or beheaded.

However, I leave you, dear reader, with hope and the last piece of the story: It is September, 1954. After a lengthy trial, Judge Eduardo Enriquez would render his verdict.

Enriquez started by tracing Lacson’s political career, the raising of his private army, and his masterminding the murder of Padilla. The judge discloses that Lacson and himself were college classmates, more than friends, brothers even. With tears in his eyes, he says, “however, circumstances arise when the loyalty of friendship must give way…” Unable to carry on, he orders the clerk to resume reading the decision for 22 defendants, including three mayors, three police chiefs and Lacson: death in the electric chair.

Three score years elapse between Padilla’s murder and the Maguindanao massacre and yet the parallels are all too glaringly evident.

Control of local forces are still largely left to regional control, political dynasties are still widely prevalent, and elective officials continue to serve their own private agendas.

Sure, buildings have changed, a revolution was staged, a new constitution enacted, and seven presidents have since been elected.

But by and large, the same social constructs persist, the same gap between the haves and have-nots remain, and the systemic problems that plague our nation endure.

Rain Checked: A Weathered Forecast on R.A. 6716

by Raymond Santos Estrella

“We are trustees and guardians of the environment for the succeeding generation.”

– Justice Hilario Davide

M

arch 11, 2011 at around 2:46 p.m. scores of families in Japan lost their homes due to the monstrous earthquake that ravaged the entire city of Kurihara and other parts of the Land of the Rising Sun. Signs of the times or time to sign up? Sign up for change, that is. Must we wait for Climate Change to rape the entire globe or can we not change for the sake of the globe?

Mother Earth is weeping and it is calling us, her children to act and act NOW. Here in the Philippines, we have so many good laws enacted for the protection of the environment. Yet, the sad reality is that only a few are being implemented. Case in point: R.A. 6716. This is a law calling for the construction of water wells, rainwater collectors, development of springs and rehabilitation of existing water wells in all barangays in the Philippines.

Atty. Rita Linda Jimeno, San Beda Law Professor and Environmental Advocate, has written an article with regard to said dormant law. She gave a clearer picture regarding the effects of global warming and the role R.A. 6716 plays to ward-off the evil that is climate change:

“It presents the grim picture that with global warming, the hotter temperature of the ocean results in the greater volume of water evaporating from the sea into the air.

This volume of water vapor accumulates and condenses to form clouds. When the water vapor becomes heavy it falls as precipitation

in the form of rainwater or hail. The huge volume of water then falls into paved and cemented roads, buildings and other structures.

The rainwater then accumulates and results in flooding as its trip to the aquifers or water table becomes hindered or blocked.”

How will the construction then of rainwater collectors or catchments prevent floods?

“Rainwater catchments must be put in the lowest land levels of a barangay in the form of ponds.

As water seeks the lowest level, rainwater will naturally rampage to seek these catchments. These water catchments may be turned into fishponds to add to the food supply of the population while serving as a reservoir of water in the dry months.

Thus, in dry seasons, where water becomes so scarce that billions are lost in crop destruction and where water supply for drinking and other uses is threatened, rain water catchments will save our day.”

(The Puno Court Legacy by Atty. Rita Linda Jimeno, Opinion page, Manila Standard Today, April 26, 2010)

Not only will it help REDUCE water consumption and in effect help Filipinos SAVE on daily expenses, it will REDUCE FLOODING and thereby protect homes, infrastructures and SAVE lives. It is also a wonderful tool to implement SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT in our country. It goes beyond the saving of pesos but also the saving of lives and future lives.

The law is already twenty years old. This twenty year-old law has yet to prove itself.

Where are the water wells, the rainwater collectors and the like? Why hasn’t it been implemented in most regions in the country?

The law provides that it is the role of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to undertake construction of these water wells. The Legislature also created a committee in said law called the Barangay Waterworks and Sanitation Association (BWSA), with the task of ensuring the proper use of the facilities. Pending its organization, it shall be operated and maintained by the barangay council.

the city. Best news ever is the Supreme Court’s Writ of Kalikasan issued last year.

You see, the beauty of the Writ of Kalikasan is that it addresses the urgency of responsive action wrought by Climate Change and other environmental threats.

It is like the other Writs such as Writ of Amparo, Habeas Data and the like, when it comes to its immediacy.

The Writ is filed when there is environmental damage of such magnitude as to prejudice the life, health or property of inhabitants of two or more cities. It may be filed in the Court of Appeals or in the Supreme Court. The petitioner may also file a Writ of Continuing Mandamus. This is a temporary environmental protection order which is an auxiliary remedy pending action. Such writ is in lieu of every Filipino’s Constitutional right to a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature.

The great Atty. Oposa has already made use of such writ when he filed it with the Supreme Court last year in behalf of the Global Legal Action on Climate Change (GLACC) for the enforcement of R.A. 6716. History indeed repeats itself. Atty.

Antonio Oposa, Jr., was the force behind the landmark case of Oposa vs. Factoran which established the concept of intergenerational responsibility and citizen suits in environmental law. This concept of citizen suit has been applied in the Writ of Kalikasan. Section 5 of such Writ provides: “Citizen suit.—Any Filipino citizen in representation of others, including minors or generations yet unborn, may file an 12 A.M. No. 09-6-8-SC action to enforce rights or obligations under environmental laws” (Emphasis added) I am keeping my fingers crossed and hoping for the best. Needless to say, I am rooting that the petition be granted. In the meantime, I’ll make sure not to keep the faucet running while I brush my teeth.

Last year, in lieu of Earth Day, Senator Loren Legarda, called for the different agencies of government to unite and enforce this two-decade bill. Davao City has also passed an ordinance in 2009 requiring water wells and rainwater harvesting in

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F e at ure 3. Incorporation of family planning in anti-poverty programs and mandatory age-appropriate reproductive health and sexuality education required from grade five to fourth year high school – The RH bill, in pursuing the promotion of reproductive health and responsible parenthood, sees the importance of educating the public including children by using what they termed as “life-skills and other approaches.” Aside from the use of the taxpayers’ money in this kind of program that is once again being questioned, there is also the need to determine whether the proposal could actually lead to harmful consequences as reproductive health information and supplies would be taught and made available not only to couples and adults, but even to the under-aged.

ThE

Reproductive Health Bill

By ANDREA S. JOSON Associate Editor Emeritus

Features of the RH Bill The Reproductive Health Bill, (RH Bill) is a product of the consolidation of various bills previously introduced as early as 1998. On January 31, 2011, the House of Representatives Committee on Population and Family Relations voted to consolidate all House versions while a similar Senate bill was thereafter proposed and authored by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago. The consolidated RH Bill of the 15th Congress has now been aptly entitled as “The Responsible Parenthood, Reproductive Health and Population and Development Act of 2011”.

Its Declaration of Policy focuses on these key principles and goals: first, the recognition of the basic right to reproductive health consistent with religious convictions, cultural beliefs and the demands of responsible parenthood; second, the promotion of gender equality, equity and women’s empowerment as a health and human rights concern; third, the guarantee of universal access to medically-safe, legal, affordable, effective and quality reproductive health care services, methods, devices, supplies and relevant information and education thereon in response to the needs of women and children and; finally, the eradication of discriminatory practices, laws and policies that infringe on a person’s exercise of reproductive health rights.

Currently, there are no contests on the bill’s provisions that seek to improve maternal health care services such as those providing for the employment of more qualified midwives, access to emergency obstetric care, maternal and newborn health care in crisis situations, mobile health care services, as well as those provisions that seek to strengthen the participation of local government units, barangay health workers and even private employers in providing more ac-

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How far do we really have to push for women’s rights in our country? In terms of legislation, one can say that as compared to other countries, we may already be considered at par in recognizing women’s rights through our Magna Carta for Women and the Anti-Violence Against Women and Children Act. The question as to whether it is still necessary to prove the progress of women empowerment in our country through the RH Bill becomes significant.

The benefits of the Bill are definitely considerable not only for the women but also to the general public, but is it really worth fighting for when we are led to believe that it is a form of moral corruption?

This crossroad is the challenge that our legislators would have to face. Like any reasonable man, one must decide based on an informed choice. The key is to see the Bill as a whole; not just from the select perspective of moralists.

cess to reproductive health care programs. Also equally laudable are the sections that provide for maximum PhilHealth benefits for those inflicted with serious, life threatening reproductive health conditions such as HIV, AIDS, breast and reproductive tract cancers and other obstetric complications.

Sources of Conflict The common sources of controversy in the Bill are embedded in some of the major provisions as follows: 1. Access to family planning - The widespread dissemination of information on artificial methods along with easy and affordable access to contraceptives such as birth control pills and intra-uterine devices (BCP’s and IUD’s) have never gained acceptance from the Catholic Church. From a moral perspective, the bill does not protect the health of the sacred human life that is being formed or born. According to a pastoral letter of the Catholic Bishop’s Conference of the Philippines, written by +Nereo P. Odchimar, D.D., Bishop of Tandag and President of the CBCP last January 30, 2011, the Church clearly emphasizes its strong dissent particularly to the use of contraceptives as these are both harmful to the women and the unborn—the latter being equally deserving of protection and human rights. Here, the critical question on when life really begins and when is it entitled to protection becomes a matter of concern.

2. Procurement and distribution of supplies classified as essential medicine- On a practical note, some oppositors of the RH Bill do not really question the use of contraceptives per se, but the use of the taxpayers’ money to fund the procurement and distribution of these family planning supplies. It is worthy to note that their concern lies with the use of limited funds to disseminate information and reproductive health supplies when the government could be spending for supplies and researches for other high-risk diseases and essential medicines. According to them, condoms are already accessible to the market at low prices which the poor can afford. Artificial methods, birth control pills and IUD’s are also being made currently available through NGO’s and other health care workers’ associations. Why use the taxpayer’s money to promote promiscuity under the pretext of reproductive health when it should be the least of our concerns?

As we celebrate International Women’s Month, we applaud continuous efforts to recognize women’s roles and potential contributions towards a better society. We shall continue to pray for guidance that our fight towards women empowerment would not transgress cultural values nor any form of moral order, and that our legislators be enlightened to somehow create a balance between practicality and moral conscience, in order to provide for what they deem as “necessities” in our modern society.

References 1.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reproductive_Health_Bill_(Philippines) 2.The Responsible Parenthood, Reproductive Health and Population and Development Act of 2011. http://www.gmanews.tv/story/212021/the-consolidated-rh-bill-in-the-15th-congress

photos by Chuck Valerio

mong various controversial legislations that have brought massive concerns and widespread debates is the re-introduction of the Reproductive Health Bill in the Philippines. As we celebrate International Women’s Month this March, it becomes pertinent to review the RH Bill by discussing on one hand the viewpoint that honors women’s rights, roles and valuable contributions to society and on the other, how these are either hindered or reinforced by certain elements in the RH Bill.

Among the strongest points of the RH Bill include arguments regarding the benefits of family planning and how it could help prevent abortion due to unwanted pregnancies, as well as help in the government’s quest for population control. This is geared towards the end of fighting poverty through sustainable development. More importantly, the bill recognizes the role of women in achieving this sustainable development as they are given the freedom of “informed choice” together with their partners, while providing for their maternal care and needs. These objectives may actually be perceived as far from appalling.

It is undeniable that the major obstacle to the Bill lies with the opposition of the Catholic Church. Our concept of morality based on Catholic teachings forbids us to consider anything other than the square belief that it is only the Supreme Creator that can take away human life, and that it is His Will that sexuality and the human body be meant solely for procreation. Needless to say, the issue on contraceptives and artificial family planning will always be shunned as an unwelcome intrusion into our morally conscientious society. In this light, arguments on how women should have the right to decide over their own bodies will continue to be dismissed as impertinent rather than relevant.

Crossroads Between Women Empowerment & Moral Uncertainty

A

The RH Bill and Women Empowerment

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COVER STORY

Sen. Pia S. Cayetano

“

in Action Written by LaiSa AGUila Photos by MikE Ac

”

Ang aking sandata ay ang aking puso at isip bilang isang ina.

A

female warrior in armed hostilities she is not, but her words echo the quiet yet pervasive strength of her battle cry.

The Senate halls and the rough terrains could very well be her battlefield; and gender inequity and the harsh weather conditions, her foes.

The Red Chronicles (TRC) had the rare occasion to meet this remarkably beautiful and statuesque woman, known not only for her grace and panache, but also for her spirited work in championing the causes of the Filipino youth, the elderly, the environment, education, and most especially, the Filipina.

It was just another day in the Senate and TRC had the opportunity to observe her while she conducted an interpellation of Sen. Edgardo Angara’s privileged speech on “Avoiding a Food Crisis.” She declared, “The face of poverty is the face of a woman. A woman will do anything to feed her children.” The lady senator, with her good nature and poise, had commanded everyone’s attention with the natural ease that only a woman of spirit, style and substance could.

Born to the revered late senator Renato “Compañero” Cayetano and German-American former school teacher Sandra Schramm on March 22, 1966, Pilar Juliana “Pia” S. Cayetano, is an achiever in her own right, even in her younger years. Her curriculum vitae alone is replete with remarkable citations and involvements.

Unknown to many, Pia was first and foremost, a Bedan. Her elementary and high school years were spent in San Beda College Alabang, formerly the Benedictine Abbey School, where she was among its first batch of high school graduates in 1981. She graduated cum laude with an undergraduate degree in Economics from the University of the Philippines-Diliman and here displayed her indomitable athletic spirit early on as the youngest member of the Philippine National Volleyball Team at age seventeen and the youngest team captain of the UP Varsity Volleyball Team at age eighteen.

Pia: ThE rElaTablE law STUdENT

As a senior in the College of Law in UP, Pia was Grand Archon of the Delta Lambda Sigma Sorority, which to her was, “a strong, very positive memory in my life.” “I know it was very fulfilling, we had a lot of activities, but when you’re the Archon, that’s work.”

Much has been said and written about her personal and professional life. But TRC’s encounter with the jovial senator revealed a side of Pia’s life rarely featured

“My law school memories are really work.

Unlike my Benedictine Abbey memories which was in high school and grade school. We had a

That woman is Senator Pia S. Cayetano—mother, lawyer, and triathlete. A fine exemplar of today’s empowered Filipina.

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in the media, yet all too common to students of law--she was truly relatable.

lot of fun!” she recalls. Pia graduated seventh in her UP Law class. As if that was not impressive enough, she was also a member of the Order of the Purple Feather, the honor society of the UP College of Law. Even so, Pia was not one to sing her own praises. “I graduated with honors, but that was because I worked hard for it and it’s not because I’m extremely talented that it was (like) a walk in the park.”

“My fun memories were actually just hanging with my friends and relaxing! I don’t feel like I had that much time to relax.” Quite surprising for someone who was an achiever both in academics and athletics. But ever the athlete, she recalls, “a fun memory for me was in senior year in my reviewing time which I basically also spent in UP, running with my classmates. I had a few classmates who were serious runners and we ran quite a bit.”

As a fitting end to the trip down law school memory lane, Pia shared, “As a tip, always give a good first impression, because we’re all humans. Even teachers are humans. Always start strong. That’s my case.” She added, “Smart is not always just book-smart. You also have to know which subjects to prepare for more based on the styles of your professors. That’s already kind of playing the game, but that’s how it is with life”.

ThE cOmpaÑEra iS aN ENTrEprENEUr aNd SO mUch mOrE

Not that Pia sees herself standing on a proverbial pedestal. Down-to-earth and refreshingly candid, she gamely shared in a previous radio interview that prior to law school, her first job was at a children’s clothing company in New York, USA, where she earned just five dollars an hour and lunched on one-dollar pizzas. While her father fully supported her education, Pia ventured out and worked in two investment banks before enrolling in UP Law. She also revealed an enterprising streak, selling accessories to classmates from the trunk of her car and in bazaars. No wonder a considerable period of her legal practice was spent in the corporate realm, where she specialized in Corporate and Intellectual Property Law as an associate in Castillo, Laman Tan, and Pantaleon Law Offices from 1992 to 1995. She also worked for Belle Corporation and its affiliates the following year and for PhilWeb Corporation in 2000, before she established the Maxi Group of Companies in 2001. The company retails and distributes educational toys and children’s apparel to this day.

At present, she is the founder of various advocacies like Pinay In Action which “provides a venue for women to take on a healthy lifestyle and tools and information to promote women’s empowerment;” Bike For Hope which “raises community awareness on pressing health and

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2nd Iron man 70.3 triathlon held in Camarines Sur last year.

environmental issues;” and The 12-hour Multi-Sport Event in Memory of Gabriel which assists “differently-abled” children in their needs. The event was established in loving memory of her son, Gabriel, who passed away in 2001 due to a rare chromosomal condition. Pia shares that her foremost motivation to passionately champion these causes was because she “personally feels connected to these issues.”

HEr BaTTlEfiEld: ThE SENaTE

10th “Bike for Hope“ Palawan

Among her landmark legislations are the Magna Carta of Women and the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010

In 2004, Pia was elected into the Senate.

In 2010, she sought re-election and received an overwhelming mandate, placing sixth in the elections. Her track record in the Senate is truly commendable as most of the bills she filed focused on social services, the environment and rural development.

“The Magna Carta of Women,” “The Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010,” “The Expanded Breastfeeding Act,” “The Food and Drugs Administration Act,” “The Renewable Energy Act of 2008,” and “The Environmental Awareness and Education Act of 2007,” as well as various “protected area” laws all over the country, are just some of these landmark legislations.

For Pia, aside from the primary qualities of “upholding the dignity, integrity and reputation of the Senate and its members,” and notwithstanding the minimum read-andwrite Constitutional requirement, a good senator is one who has “knowledge of the law.” She adds, “Being a lawyer is an advantage because of your degree of understanding of the legal process and the fundamental legal precepts. Although a senator does need have to be a lawyer, he or she must have at least a college degree to ensure that certain legal and technical processes and concepts are understood due to the technicalities involved in the discussions, whether on the Senate floor or in committee hearings. If in order to apply for a regular job, a college degree is needed, then all the more if the work involves passage of legislation that will have an impact on the lives of the millions of Filipinos.”

The Senate under scrutiny On the public perception of purported grandstanding in the Senate in aid of legislation, Pia admits that the exercise of such powers is an “important tool in crafting laws as these probes shed light and life to the wordings of the bills it seeks to pass.”

And that while, “we have seen cases of grandstanding, I would like to think that it is more of the exception and when used properly, remains an important tool in the crafting of legislation to address gaps and loopholes in existing laws.”

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Sen Pia Cayetano gears up to join the annual ‘Tour of Hope,’ an annual bike event meant to raise awareness on cervical cancer

The controversial RH Bill Since its inception, Pia has gained both supporters and critics. She asserts, “I respect the freedom of religion of every individual… but statistics have shown that in the Philippines, there are eleven mothers dying during pregnancy and childbirth because of hypertension, postpartum hemorrhage, and pregnancy with abortive outcome, all constituting the top causes of maternal deaths in the country. At the end of the day, it is all about our humanitarian obligation to society, especially the women and children.”

On Charter Change Pia believes that one of the pressing matters that should be addressed is the need to “study the proposal to shift to a parliamentary form of government to reform our electoral and political party system.” And, “there is a need to look at our judiciary wherein we have a problem with the slow administration of justice given the clogged dockets and insufficient funds.”

“There was a suggestion to create Constitutional courts as Constitutional cases deal with matters which impact on our democratic system and demand an interpretation of the Constitution which is very specific and requires expertise, and which needs resolution by a High Court composed of specialists in the Constitution. The financial independence and autonomy of the Judiciary especially from the Department of Budget and Management must also be carried, to ensure its political independence in making decisions.”

DEfYiNG ThE STErEOTYpical YET rEmaiNiNG iN TradiTiON Pia’s active lifestyle on and off the road is a welcome change from the traditional archetype of a Filipino public officer—one usually confined to the halls of the government office.

where she has close to around 29,100 followers!

“I welcome the emergence of social networking and blogging which have bridged the gap between public officials and their constituents and I try to fully optimize the use of these new forms of media in order to update the people of my work… and be accessible and transparent.”

To many, Pia is a portrait of an independent and feisty Filipina, but how much of Maria Clara is left in today’s empowered Filipina? “There’s a lot. In many ways I still feel I’m a Maria Clara.

I mean I still would like the door to be opened for me.” So chivalry is not dead? “Yeah... In the same way, that I would do things. I sit beside Joker Arroyo and I’ve no qualms serving coffee to him. It’s not my job, but I’m happy to do that for certain men in my life.” “Even if you look back, from the time of Maria Clara, there was Gabriela so you can also say that that’s also based on the circumstances around her that allowed her to be that way.”

So how has Pia evolved from being a young achiever in school to the woman that she is now? “The foundation of my training as the daughter of my father who was a lawyer, balanced by the support of my mom and then my training in school— which was Benedictine Abbey at that time and then UP. Sobrang ganda nung training ko. Kasi in law school and as an athlete, you don’t give up. Tuloy-tuloy. Walang katapusan, walang kapaguran. That’s how it has helped me, how I evolved. It has helped me persevere more.”

Pia continues to inspire every Filipina together with their numerous battles in maximizing their rights, education and competence. “Meaningful things in life are most often harder, that’s why you persevere. Why put up with it if it’s hard?

Because you know it’s worth it. So I just want to focus on that.” Without a doubt, the Filipina, and the Filipino people in general, are assured of an empowered and passionate woman rallying for their cause. Pia Cayetano, truly, is a Pinay In Action.

Since 1991, Pia has finished various marathons all over the country and the world. A triathlete, she is also a Cobra Ironman 70.3.

Pia has also co-hosted in various radio programs offering legal aid. And true to her advocacies, she has written columns for magazine publications like Baby Magazine and Good Housekeeping. Her presence and visibility on the Internet is also impressive. Aside from her profile on the official website of the Senate of the Philippines; her blog, whereispianow.com, provides an updated account of her activities and involvements. She is also on Facebook and YouTube where she has her own channel.

Pia also tweets on twitter.com/piacayetano,

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Fe at u r e

F E at ure

Portrait of A Bar Blast Survivor:

She also looks up to role models and epitomes of womanhood such as Rep. Estelita Juco, Atty. Katrina Legarda, and Lea Salonga. “I have them in mind because they have made their marks in history.

They are celebrated Filipino women”.

The Empowered Jokat Ledda I

t was a busy and hot afternoon in Sta. Mesa, Manila. Nearby schools were just dismissing students anxious to go home. Honking jeepneys loaded passengers while angry drivers cursed jaywalkers beating the incoming traffic. Taxi cabs were busy finding passengers. Gray smoke blurred the streets. Really, this area in Manila was indeed a bustling place.

In this urban jungle, a feisty yet gentle lady traverses this rowdy contexture. Her name is Joanna Katrina Ledda, known by most people as “Jokat”, a third year law student in San Beda College Mendiola.

She was among the 42 people that were hurt in the dreadful bomb explosion last September 26, 2010 in Taft Avenue. It was a tragic incident that marked the last Sunday of the Bar Examinations.

Among the victims of the explosion, the people who suffered the most damage were Joanna and Raissa Laurel, also a law student. They were both amputees.

Joanna’s left leg was amputated while

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On her wheelchair, her face is vivid and lively. At first glance, immediately, one can surmise that she is approachable and gracious. She is a woman who has gone beyond physical pain and trauma, on her way to a dream. In celebrating Women’s month, The Red Chronicles was very much honored to witness another side of bravery.

Jokat Ledda believes that every woman must pursue everything she desires in being able to succeed, without allowing gender to become a hindrance. She is first and foremost a woman, a daughter, a law student and many other more. Despite the bar blast incident she is not affected by gender nor disability. “I do not let them control my life and dreams”.

“An empowered woman is someone who can make her own decisions, and by her efforts succeed in every endeavor without

Upon the removal of the cloth which covered her right lower limb, several protruding metal tubes stuck out of her leg, skewering her flesh and bone.

Her foot hangs on a pedestal to ease the pain. And she also bears scars on her left hand. “The fingers on it are immobile”, she shared. Surprisingly, these are only visible after a careful scrutiny. It was amazing how she appears to be without great injury. Was it her positive and radiant personality? Most likely. It was as if the accident never happened.

“The incident will not

stop the tradition.

It should not cause fear.

By Wilson De Jesus and Mary Sayeh R. Hassani

both Raissa’s legs required the procedure.

Nonetheless, they both suffered beyond physical injuries.

mately, her “battle scars.”

Despite numerous months of trying to avoid the limelight and rumors that she was depressed, Ledda finally revealed her

having their gender becoming a weakness. Siya yung tipong lahat, kayang gawin. Kahit yung mga ginagawa ng mga lalaki. Gender is not a hindrance,” she shared.

In this day and age, the evolution of women’s rights has gone beyond expected. Women have established their own strengths and legacies. Ledda said that women are more empowered today than in the past. “Right now, our society is lenient and offers more opportunities to women, as compared to the past, when women were constrained. Back then, they were considered efficient only for household tasks. But now, lahat ng maaring gawin ng mga lalaki, ay kayang gawin na rin ng mga babae. There are a lot of women engineers, architects, doctors, and even lawyers! Moreover, there are women in the military who excel and become top graduates of their class. Wala nang exclusive jobs for men. I believe that the mantra of women in today’s society is: “What men can do, we can, too – perhaps even better.”

Among all the great women that she admires, she relates best to the late Rep. Estelita G. Juco, a journalist, teacher, and an honorary alumna of San Beda College.

She was appointed during the time of former President Corazon C. Aquino as Sectoral Representative for the Women and the Disabled and introduced laws which help create ramps for the differently-abled and day care centers for children of employees.

“She was a devoted congresswoman in her time. She has made a mark in public service though she was differently-abled, and she never let such a challenge prevent her from doing marvelous things. I believe that my disability and gender will not be an impediment as well” said Ledda.

Despite the bar blast incident last September, Jokat Ledda has become stronger and braver. “I learned how to accept the things that happened and how to deal with the changes. My present condition made me appreciate every detail in life and every thing that I can do, even the simplest ones.” She does not plan to give up on her dreams and is planning to go back to school this coming June, graduate on 2013 and pass the bar exams in one take. As part of her legacy she wishes to join organizations that promotes and caters to those who are differently-abled.

sentiments. “I didn’t want to be interviewed during the first month, for several reasons.

First, I had to undergo surgery three to four times a week. Second, my grandfather died last August. I did not want to aggravate my grandmother’s grief by letting her know about the extent of my injuries. Third, I wanted other people to air their views as well. Gusto ko lang i-clarify: I was never depressed.” Ledda’s outlook in life remains the same and she is now even more determined to become a lawyer, “I still enjoy life. I am not like those people who falter because of challenge”.

”

It is surprising to learn that even after the traumatizing experience in 2010 bar exam’s salubong, Ledda is still ready and willing to return and cheer with Bedan pride.

“I will cheer for all my schoolmates and friends. The incident will not stop the tradition. It should not cause fear. Ako nga, I still smile wholeheartedly. I moved on. What I am doing will be an inspiration for myself and for everyone. My current state will not be a distraction” said Ledda.

During the interview, Joana Ledda showed no signs of sadness nor regret. She even showed the extent of her injuries, and ulti-

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the

Boy Genius

By ATTY. TONI VERANO

By ArGEl CabaTbaT

Last January 30, 2011 the School of Law received a shocking news: Atty. Romeo Batino passed away. Before his death, he was already diagnosed to be suffering from prostate cancer. He was 69.

His wake was held at the Magallanes Chapel, Makati City.

Legions upon legions of law students and lawyers coming from different law schools paid a visit to his wake. There were intermittent suspensions of classes during the wake to allow students to pay their last respects to Atty. Batino, as a mood of grief took hold of students and professors alike. His final resting place is in Manila Memorial Park.

Illustrious background

I was never close to either of my grandfathers as one of them died when I was only 3 years old and the other suffered from Alzheimer’s. But God gave me another chance to have a grandfather in the person of Tito Bats.

We were the pioneer batch of San Beda College of Law – Alabang Campus, and we were his pioneer class, Section 1-S (SY 2005-2006). I remember the first day of Constitutional Law 1 Class, a Santa Claus look-alike professor armed with a thick green book entered our classroom. He would not accept our answers coming from the book of Isagani Cruz, he wanted our answers to come from the book of Bernas, in verbatim. I thought to myself, “A-ha! A die-hard Atenean.” There, our little La SalleAteneo rivalry began. He would be so triumphant every time La Salle lost a game. I too, as I always, recited the La Salle prayer every time before classes start. I remember there was a time I was absent because of the La Salle-FEU championship, and as La Salle lost that day, I was told by my classmate that Tito Bats said in class, “Siguro umiiyak na ngayon si Ms. Verano (smiles)” Our La Salle-Ateneo rivalry turned into one of a grandfather-granddaughter relationship. He would monitor my grades and push me to receive an award during my Senior year.

No words could express the happiness he felt when we graduated in 2009, more so, when we passed the bar in March 2010. When I was having my panic attacks months before the bar results came out, I would always call him and frequent the halls of Alabang just so I could to talk to him. He never lost faith in me. I remember telling him, “Tito Bats!

Grabe! Mukha nyo nakikita ko nung sinasagutan ko yung Labor exam!” the look of joy on his face was priceless. He then confessed that he was a nervous wreck and said, “Lahat kayo sakin lang dumaan sa lahat ng Labor subjects, ako lang ang sisisihin pag hindi kayo pumasa!”

Even after passing the Bar, I always made sure I would be able to talk to Tito Bats once a week. It was 8 November 2010 when I last saw him. It was my regular Monday report to him and Dean Jara. He was telling us his spooky experience in the Bellarmine Hall for the sole purpose of scaring Dean Jara who currently holds classes there. So when I was told a week after that, that he was suffering from some kind of illness, I refused to believe it. In fact, I rejected the idea and insisted that he might be an examiner in the 2011 Bar examinations.

So, when I got a text message bearing the bad news early morning of 30 January 2011, I could not believe it. More so, because it was so sudden.

It was not caused by his illness. I never thought I would be in so much pain. I lost my grandfather.

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Tito Bats, Not only were you a professor and a mentor, but you were also a friend and one of the greatest grandfathers anyone could wish for. I feel so blessed to have known you and feel so lucky that you were able to see me graduate and become the lawyer that you want us all to be. I know I was not able to snatch an award for you when I was still a law student, but I want you to know that all the victories I am now gathering and TV appearances that are now opening up for me, which I know you are very fond of, have become possible because of you.

Now, we celebrate your life, particularly how you have influenced our lives. What you have done and how you have affected us are great reasons for celebration. For while we mourn the loss of our grandfather, from another perspective, we also see this loss as a gain, because now we would better understand what you have left behind and the legacy that you have established. Who you were and what you have done for us shall live on. For surely, we have become better individuals because of you.

Atty. Romeo Batino finished his elementary education in three and a half years, instead of the regular six years. He also graduated from high school as class salutatorian. He finished his college education with a degree of Associated Arts in the University of the Philippines, where he was admitted at the young age of 13. He was considered as the youngest enrollee at the Ateneo de Manila College of Law at the age of 15. After passing the bar, his lawyer’s oath was deferred by the Supreme Court until he reached the age of 21, the majority age under the old civil code. He signed his name in the Roll of Attorneys on March 5, 1962.

As the son of the former mayor of Tagaytay, his family owns the famous Batino coffee farm in Tagaytay City where he offers the venue for student activities pro bono. He is also a prominent member of Aquila Legis Fraternity based in Ateneo de Manila School of Law. His story about finishing law school at a young age is one of the myths that covered Atty. Batino.

However, when confronted to confirm the myth, it was said that he would cheerfully reveal that when he was in elementary, his aunt owned the school. That allowed him to accelerate to higher levels. It was said that he also do not claim to be the youngest person to pass the bar anymore because someone has already beaten that record. But this act of humility is betrayed by the accomplishments he made.

The School of Law mourns Atty. Romeo Batino began teaching Labor Law and Constitutional Law in San Beda College – Alabang, School of Law in school year 2005. He conducted his last class in Labor Review and Labor Standards with fourth year and third year students, respectively, in the first semester of 2010.

During his teaching career in the School of Law, he became famous for conducting classes in a relaxed atmosphere. During his lectures, he will narrate some funny stories about his law practice dealing with the topic in class.

The School of Law held a mass last February 2, 2011 in memory of the great professor and colleague Atty. Romeo R. Batino. Students and faculty members attended the mass where eulogies about Atty. Batino were shared. Facebook pages were created for students to share their stories and experiences about Atty. Batino.

Dean Ulan Sarmiento III was quoted once by saying that Atty. Batino is an “Atenean who loves to wear red.” He will always be the beloved professor who always had a smile in his face. He is the father of all his students and a wonderful friend. For us, he will always be a Bedan, and he will never be forgotten.

I love you, Tito Bats. You’ll forever live in our hearts.

Toni

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FE at u r e

F E at ure

ThE CUriOUS CaSE Of JOaQUiN OlaÑO

By RIO DIZON

For what it’s worth: it’s never too late or, in my case, too early to be whoever you want to be. There’s no time limit, stop whenever you want.

You can change or stay the same, there are no rules to this thing. We can make the best or the worst of it. I hope you make the best of it. And I hope you see things that startle you. I hope you feel things you never felt before. I hope you meet people with a different point of view. I hope you live a life you’re proud of. If you find that you’re not, I hope you have the strength to start all over again.

-Benjamin Button, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

W

e all have stories to tell.

But how do I stitch together a patchwork of stories by a man who has known a thousand-fold of laughters, perils and sorrows? With humility, this is where I try.

His name is Joaquin Olaño. He is 88. And he is a Freshman law student in San Beda College-Alabang (SBCA-SOL). He drives a black Mazda pick-up to school and walks to his class with a cane in one hand and his books on the other. Students lovingly call him, “Lolo Jake.”

Apart from that, nobody really knows much about him. He is as elusive as he can be. The first time I asked him for an interview, he gave a light-hearted laugh and mildly declined. Perhaps it is the combination of his easy going nature and his calm disposition that makes him a puzzle. I couldn’t put all the pieces together. But here are the pieces that I got a glimpse of anyway.

“Don’t ever tell anybody anything. If you do, you start missing everybody.”

That’s the last sentence of Salinger’s novel, The Catcher In The Rye. It pretty much echoes what Lolo Jake told me when he finally agreed for an interview: “That will make you cry. You will remember all the hardships. It’s not easy.” The statement was a deep pang in the heart. More so because he gave a calm smile after.

“I was born August 22, 1922, to Esteban and Trinidad in Barrio San Antonio, Pili, Camarines Sur.” He began. “I learned to read the alphabet and catechism from mother who ran a school. From the public elementary school I went to the seminary for a year and worked my way in high school, Ateneo de Naga, to third year when the war broke out.”

He joined the United States Armed Forces in the Far East (USAFFE) during the war as a volunteer. He was not in the infantry. He was a medic in the 51st Battalion Medical Brigade Company. At 19, he was a 1st sergeant. But he did not elaborate on that. He told me no stories. He told me no names. The only impression of the war that I got from him was this: “It was the most memorable moment in my life. I never thought you could die.”

And then I realized that I was talking to a man who has probably actually heard the explosions and the zooming planes, seen the bloodbath, and felt the earth tremor as enemy artillery shook it. He may not have gone to battle at the front, but this is a man who was there. Despite that, I couldn’t see a dampened, defeated, cynic soul.

So I looked at him. I looked at him hard. I see that his hands are freckled. His face is with deep wrinkles, each line an untold story.

But his eyes, his eyes are youthful. As Hemingway wrote in one of his stories, “Everything about him is old except his eyes.”

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He showed me photos of him when he was younger. He told me he looks different now. I said his eyes are the same.

Again, he gave a light-hearted chuckle.

But it’s true.

Like The Mysterious Zen Master There is something so serene and easygoing about Lolo Jake’s ways. But his humility and simplicity belies his many other dimensions as a man. For instance, Lolo Jake, unbeknownst to his law school peers, actually has an impressive resume. “In Manila I got employed as a clerk in IL-FGU Insurance Group, a part of the Ayala Group of companies and under its sponsorship, I finished my Masters in Industrial Management degree in UP.” To plot Lolo Jake’s career is to create an entirely new narrative. But suffice it to say that he has worked for prominent Philippine corporate personalities namely Ramon Gonzales, Enrique Zobel, Salvador Estrada, Ramon Diaz, Jaime Zobel de Ayala, Victor Rodriguez and Isagani De Castro.“ Upon my retirement, I found employment in the So. Montebello Irrigation District in USA, where I was asked to train on computers at Glendale Community College. Afterwards, I retired again.”

In 1998, Lolo Jake was prompted to go back to the Philippines from the United States because of the death of his beloved wife, Dionisia. He described it as a painful past. “I am a widower with four children alive, three of whom are now retired. It is only the doctor who is still working in the government. My third child was killed by a hit-and-run in 1961.” He recalled.

This is where he explained to me one of the reasons why he entered law school.

“My bonding with the family was short so I thought I could compensate that by hanging around somewhere, where we could still feel our presence even at a distance; and, one way of doing that would be to engage in a lifestyle that I am used to – where my mind is occupied in constructive effort, like enrolling in law at San Beda Alabang, which is near and where my friend Nick is teaching. I read of this trend in US. Then, I can maintain active connections with the family.”

Beyond Age and Limits Another reason why he entered law school was to postpone the aging process by engaging in mental effort. But just like any other law student, Lolo Jake has his own difficulties in the said study. “The toughest part in law is jurisprudence, because of volume. Also, an aswer to a question of law without the supporting provision of law and jurisprudence is not acceptable.”

While we can identify with him on the difficulties of studying law, it still remains a fact that the challenges he faces in studying the field is coupled with the challenges of aging, something we, his peers can only imagine. “The number one concern of the aged is health.” He explained. “You become perishable, short term. I enrolled to experiment, to determine my limits. I regret that I met an accident last October 7. I should not be driving at night. I should not be carrying books. I shivered in the cold. I could fall after standing up. The family wanted me to quit.”

But his passionate, unconquerable and survivor spirit wouldn’t let him. “But I find school a breeding ground for ideas, as in my case, on relations because that was where I got the least exposure in life.”

Taking from that confession, I asked if it was difficult for him to relate or connect with his younger classmates.

Is there a feeling of isolation? “I love to deal with my peers because they are considerate.” He answered. “I had experienced dealing with generational gap way back in Glendale College. I learn from them during interaction and I don’t feel isolated because being alone has been my style, not by choice but by force of circumstance. Some knowledge of high tech enables me to connect with them. I don’t know how I can survive without them.”

(second from left) His last photo before the war. Ateneo De Naga Champion Elocutionists, February 6, 1941.

Lolo Jake garnared excellent reviews in his portrayal of Rizal in theater.

It is a curious thing – a day in the life of a solitary old man. So I asked what a normal day for him is. “If my sleep is uninterrupted I usually arise at seven,” He answered. “do my Tai-Chi, glance at the headlines, take breakfast and medicines. Attend to household chores: phone calls and schedules, market and drugs, mails and checks, or proceed to doctor’s appointments when called for.

That would be about noon when I focus on the subject and lesson for the afternoon. Then I attend class, take supper and go to bed.” with his family during his Masters graduation in 1958.

Those were the poignant points in Lolo Jake’s life. All the little pieces of his story may not have been there to complete the puzzle but I believe that the silences and gaps are more than enough to give meaning and to tell the heart what is untold.

Indeed it is not always the plot that propels a story. Sometimes it also is the unfolding of the portrait of a man. And here is a man of admirable character. A calm soul of a sunny disposition forged by the many vicissitudes of life. The always smiling old man with youthful eyes that hide whatever melancholy and nostalgia we might never know.

with his children, 2008.

“My life’s motto is: Study-Work-Love.

I keep a draft of my life’s chronology that in the end I wish to call my Report Card at whatever age I reach.”

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S p o rt s ThE rESpEcTivE wiNNErS fOr Each caTEGOrY arE aS fOllOwS:

By WILSON DE JESUS San Beda College Alabang – School of Law (SBCA – SOL) held its second annual Fun Run, entitled “Red n’ Luvin It 2”, last Jan. 23, 2011.

The participants gathered at the starting point of the race – the College of Arts and Science (CAS) grounds – long before sunrise. Friends both old and new, students, professors, and running enthusiasts met for the open race that was about to ensue. Runners had three different challenges to choose from: the three kilometer, five kilometer, and ten kilometer run. This year’s courses are longer, as opposed to last year’s selection of a one kilometer, three kilometer and five kilometer run.

The event began with an invocation led by Mayo Arellano, President of the School of Law Government. Atty. Bruce Rivera, Prefect of Student Activities, then officially opened the event with a message peppered with encouraging and funny remarks. Afterward, several SOL students facilitated the warmup with basic exercise routines and proper stretching techniques.

The Fun Run sent runners around Alabang Hills, with each course passing through different streets.

The 3k and 5k courses had their halfway points along Don Jesus Boulevard, while the 10k course had its halfway point along Doña Ines Boulevard. Race marshals were strategically stationed to guide the runners and prevent them from straying outside the race route. Race bands were also distributed to ensure that participants followed their respective courses.

The race ended some time past sun up. The marshals then compiled and generated the results with an electronic database, and announced the winners. Among the victors were Arleen Delson, the wife of SOL Vice Dean Atty. Rocky Delson, Cynthia Manalo, a CAS professor, and Abraham Missos, a Kenyan runner. Freebies and race certificates were later given to the participants. A raffle sponsored by Globe Telecom was also conducted.

Two of the improvements introduced in this year’s race were the electronic recording of individual times, and the use of bands to distinguish runners in different courses. Race organizers also noted that there were more participants than race singlets this year, due to the increase in attendance. This year’s Fun Run also enjoyed more attention and support from media and sponsors such as Puregold, Globe Telecom, Green Cross Alcohol, and the newspaper Koneksyon.

By SAMANTHA SANTOS

ThrEE KilOmETErS MENS: 1. Bolivar, Salvador (856) 13:16.4 2. Navoa, Mark (837) 16:16.5 3. Ambas, George (808) 19:50.4 ThrEE KilOmETErS LadiES: 1. Saquing, Michelle Jean (805) 16:26.4 2. Saquing, Mildred Jane (807) 16:58.9 3. Manalo, Cynthia (847) 22:52.4 FivE KilOmETErS MENS: 1. Fantilaga, Carlito (519) 15:09.6 2. Bolivar, Simon (465) 15:14.9 3. Servano, Marjon (437) 18.16.9 FivE KilOmETErS LadiES: 1. Cabatuando, Mari Nessa (431) 25:25.5 2. Delson, Arleen (459) 30:44.5 3. Barrion, Kristie Dawn (449) 31:31.8 TEN KilOmETEr MENS: 1. Bolivar, Alquin (215) 17:41.2 2. Sabal, Elmer (071) 17:43.3 3. Missos, Abraham (917) 17:49.6 TEN KilOmETEr LadiES: 1. Tolentino, Ailene (905) 28:03.5 2. Caisip, Rebecca (168) 34:53.00 3. Medina, Cafren (910) 38:49.5 PHOTOS BY CARLO TIBAYAN AND GENNY BUSALPA

By its very definition, the Lex Celebrationis is a culmination of sportsmanship and a celebration of athletic prowess among the populace of San Beda College Alabang – School of Law. It is a three-day event wherein students come together and vie for supremacy over each sporting event.

This year’s festivities included three new games, namely Futsal, Dodgeball, and Laser Tag. Only two teams competed in Tennis and Swimming. For Badminton, there were two teams from each year level.

The seniors were the overall champions, as they won four events in first place, six events in second, and one event in third.

For the rest of the student population, the Lex Celebrationis meant the suspension of classes and marked the start of Christmas vacation. The event served as a welcome break from the rigors of law school.

Mayo Arellano, President of the Student Law Government, spearheaded the event. The awarding ceremony was held during the Christmas party last December 16, 2010, at the Multipurpose Hall.

By DUGIE DELA CRUZ It was as if the Greek goddess Artemis sent her descendants to the four corners of Fr. Roberto de Jesus Hall last December 14, when the School of Law launched the Ms. Lex beauty pageant during the Lex Celebrationis week. With the theme “wild safari”, seven contestants competed for the prestigious title. Ms. Gemma Javier, Ms. Grasha Noval, Ms. Mishelle Rubio, and Ms. Mary Joy Salvador all represented the first year; Ms. Dianne Hazel Canita for the second year; Ms. Nyn Guevarra for the third year and; Ms. Joan Palacio, The Red Chronicles’ very own literary editor, for the fourth year.

The crowd riotously cheered when each of the contestants showcased their respective talents. Although each of the contestants gave notable performances, it was Ms. Grace Noval who stood out for the judges, hence, her much-deserved receipt of the Best in Talent award.

Ms. Dianne Hazel Canita, who despite her frustrations with the scars that she acquired from the Taft bombing incident, remained to be stunning and confident and was veritably recognized as Best in Long Gown . Ms. Mishelle Rubio, who was admired by many for having a pretty face, received the Miss Photogenic award.

At the end of the night, Ms. Palacio brought pride to the seniors for winning the muchcoveted crown for the 2010 Miss Lex and the People’s Choice Award. Ms. Grasha Noval and Ms. Dianne Hazel Canita were the first and second runners up, respectively. Once again, the School of Law has proven that SBCA is an institution that produces excellent, brilliant and beautiful (women) lawyers.

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By JOEY ALFONSO

S

an Beda College Alabang – School of Law (SBCA-SOL) added another feather to its cap when it hosted the 2011 Conflicts of Law. The Conflicts of Law is an annual event where law students from the member schools of the Association of Law Schools of the Philippines (ALSP) meet with other students and compete in various activities throughout the four Sundays of February. This year’s lineup of events includes basketball, volleyball, football, chess, swimming, lawn tennis, badminton, dodge ball, grappling, debate, and track and field.

The triumphant opening of the Conflicts of Law last February 6 was attended not only by the delegates from SBCASOL and other participating schools, but also by the administrators of SBCA-SOL. Rector-President Dom Clement Ma. Roque, OSB, led the participants in prayer. In his opening remarks, Prefect of Student Activities Atty. Bruce Rivera called the hosting an introduction of SBCA-SOL and a gesture of friendship to the ALSP community. Thereafter, Dean Ulpiano Sarmiento III extended a profound welcome to all.

Dino Austria (NCR Board Executive Secretary, Conflicts 2011 Head) delivered a brief message, followed by Noelle Gavino (ALSP NCR Board Chairman), who led the recitation of the Oath of Sportsmanship. Last year’s basketball MVPs, Joey Alfonso and Jonathan de Vera, as well as incumbent SLG President Mayo Arellano, ran in the torch relay.

SBCA - SOL’s hosting of this year’s Conflicts of Law would not have been made possible without the efforts of the school’s student leaders, namely: Noelle Gavino, Mayo Arellano (Member of the Board of Trustees and National Board Vice President for Southern Luzon), Gabe Borromeo (Southern Luzon Board Chairman), and Dino Austria.

Earlier, SBCA - SOL men’s volleyball team and chess representative put up a valiant effort in the preliminaries.

Our men’s basketball team lost to the Mendiola cagers, but secured second place. On the other hand, our women’s basketball team edged out their Mendiola counterparts, and won their second championship in a row. The SOL volleybelles finished with a respectable third place, despite a loss to Ateneo in the semi-finals.

With reports from Carisa Barcena and Wilson De Jesus.

PHOTOS BY RINO REYES AND MIGUEL LLAVE

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Vox

P o p u l i

ELECOM MEMORANDUM 2011-02 For clarification and illumination on the issues surrounding the non-accreditation of the Coalition of Leaders Inquest for Unity and Empowerment Political Party (CLIQUE for brevity). Said party’s application was denied for the following reasons: 1) The party accreditation process has been made publicly known by means of resolution 2011-01 promulgated on or about January 18, 2011 and posted on the School of Law bulletin board found near the faculty office. Said document gave the requirements for accreditation and the deadline for its filing on February 1, 2011 9pm. Said letter had been in public view for about two (2) weeks before said deadline and is considered proper and constructive notice to all.

On February 1, 2011 the CLIQUE Political party at 8:10 pm, through its then officer Jo Marie Vibandor, submitted a letter of request to have said deadline extended as said party could not meet all the requirements on that current date. The Elecom immediately replied on the same day of February 1, 2011 granting such request by giving a non-extendable period until 3 pm the next day, February 2, 2011. Such was accepted by the said political party.

On February 2, 2011 3:00 pm the extended deadline passed without the CLIQUE Political Party filing its promised application. On 3:10 p.m. a protest letter was filed by the CLIQUE Political Party, through its member Erica Roman, regarding certain provisions of the Elecom Resolution 2011-01 which it viewed as violative of the School of Law Constitution. ON 3:12 p.m. of February 2, 2011 the application for political party accreditation was submitted by then Clique Political Party officer Jo Marie Vibandor and was received by the Elecom.

Said documents were received, signed, and noted with the time they were received by the Elecom in the presence of the CLIQUE Political Party representatives delivering such.

vox

RiSkPEcT

(RiSk Or RESpEcT?)

By Casleen Sta. Agueda A survey on relationships was conducted among students of SBCASOL and the same consisted of these two self-explanatory statements: • Okay lang yan, hindi pa sila kasal.

• Respeto. May GF/BF na yan.

Justify your answer:________________ These statements are answers to a question that was never actually presented. That was the idea—to spark the question in the reader’s mind. As expected, some heated, challenging and even hostile justifications were provided; however, it was interesting to note that the more liberal answers actually came from people involved in long and serious relationships.

The results revealed that only a few turned out to be risk-takers. Most people, approximately two-thirds of the sample population surveyed, preferred the second choice, “Respeto.” The following explanations were provided by the sample population for their respective choices.

Okay lang yan, hindi pa sila kasal.

Ganun talaga. - Jot Jacosalem

2) On February 10, 2011 the Elecom delivered its letter of denial to the CLIQUE Political Party president Noelle Gavino. The document stated the following as the Elecom’s reasons for denying the Clique Political Party’s accreditation: XXX

a) The granted deadline as per your request for extension was not complied with;

b) In our standards for admission as per Title III Rule 12,14 & 16 of ELECOM Resolution 2011-01, to wit:

Rule 12. REQUIREMENTS. Applicants proposing to form a political party shall accomplish and sign the proper standardized form (Annex A) provided by the Commission and submit three (3) copies to the commissioner designated in the notice as mentioned in Rule 9. All applications must be accompanied by:

i. The proposed party’s platform of government

ii. Names and contact details of all registered party members.

iii. A copy of the party’s logo, emblem and official color/s if any, which must be submitted both in printed and soft copy via electronic mail at sbca.elecom@gmail.com • Only One (1) copy of the said requirements was provided from the time of submission up to this date.

• No printed copy was given under item (iii) was provided from the time of submission up to this date.

Rule 14. REVIEW OF THE APPLICATION. xxx The Commission reserves the right to determine if the organization conforms to the policies, rules and regulations established for party accreditation.

Rule 16. DENIAL OF REGISTRATION. Without prejudice to any future order, rule or issuance of the Commission, the ELECOM may refuse to register a political party for non-compliance of these rules.

XXX 3) It is evident from the above that CLIQUE’s application for accreditation was not denied only merely for reasons of failing to meet the deadline set but also for failing to meet the formal requirements of accreditation.

It is known in election law that such rules for accreditation are deemed mandatory upon applicants.

Further, it is evident from the communication sent by CLIQUE Political Party requesting the extension of the deadline for the submission of its application for accreditation that CLIQUE recognizes Elecom’s authority to set deadlines and its authority to deny applications for failing to meet such. Moreover Elecom approved Clique’s request for an extension up to 3 pm of February 2, 2011.

They’re not yet married. Anything is still possible. It ain’t over till it’s over.

- Nessie Tianco Maybe she’s not really happy with him. Maybe she’s looking for someone. You never know. Pag inupakan ka ng boyfriend, eh that’s the risk you have to take!

- Homer Pablo You might be making a mistake that might affect the rest of your life by being in a relationship with the wrong person.

- Anonymous Relationship is only binding pag kasal na. - Anonymous

Respeto. May GF/BF na yan.

What if ikaw yung involved sa relationship? - Jill Manangkil If people cannot even respect BF/GF relationships, how can you expect them to respect even bigger and more serious relationships such as MARRIAGE!

- Anonymous Respect boundaries [dude], other than that we’re no greater than animals.

- Anonymous Respect begets respect, shows the kind of person you are. - Anonymous You wouldn’t want the same done to you. And besides, the ties are there before the marriage. Give the parties involved the option to opt out of the relationship rather than be the one to cause the death of it. - Roma Cruz

And the most popular justification: Takot ako sa karma!

From whatever perspective we look at it, being in a relationship will always involve a risk of getting hurt. People have reasons for leaving and reasons for staying.

Some are willing to take the risk of hurting the one they love because they feel an attraction that is hard to resist, an attraction that could either mar the relationship they have, or au contraire, in the process, might be the beginning of the rest of their lives. The lucky ones get married and spend forever together.

Allow me to share my father’s two cents’ worth when it comes to matters of the heart.

Clique’s failure to meet a deadline extended for their benefit estops them from questioning the denial of their accreditation on the ground of such.

“Eto ang FACTS, eto ang ISSUE. Saka mo lagyan ng EMOTION.” PALAKPAKAN!

We hope that this will inform the public on the facts of the issue at hand.

As for my personal answer to the survey, I would like to keep it to myself for pain of being mauled in the halls of our beloved St. Maur.

po puli

IN THE RED CORNER A venue for students’ expressions, ideas and opinions gathered in the form of surveys.

For this issue, TheRedChronicles interposed this question: We have had two other impeachment proceedings in the past. Do you think the recent case against Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez will prosper?

“I don’t think so. Impeachment cases and proceedings in this country has always been a moro-moro, a long shot attempt at proving that the current administration is actually doing something to execute its mantra. Kung walang corrupt, walang mahirap!”

- Kalai Rosal

“Maybe so. It all boils down to the political will (of our government officials).”

- Frank Hernandez

“Yes. May probable cause na naman para ituloy ang impeachment case sa kanya. It would be embarrassing on the part of Congress kung bigla nalang mawawala sa ere ang issue na yan.”

- Diorella Micah Archangel

“It might prosper. But given how the past impeachment proceedings have fared, it might take too long for them to resolve the same.”

- Michael Malvar

“The success or failure of the current constitutional impeachment process will lie, quite precariously, on two factors: first, Proper Legal Management. The skill and competence of prosecutors are crucial; second, Social Perception. Perhaps the most conspicuous facet of the process is the Filipino people’s perception on the Government’s ability and or propensity to pursue the case. Does the government possess capable and unassailable legal professionals to effectively handle the case?

Will this present administration wield the sword of truth and lead the charge towards real change or will it succumb to the dark malevolent temptation of the apple of corruption, betrayal and lies that frequented past administrations? The success, or lack of it, would be a definitive indictment of the government’s performance in pursuing, or undoing the evils of the past. And as Queen Elizabeth waited anxiously for the Spanish Armada, so do we lie waiting for the dawn.”

- Macky Eusebio

“It depends. If the government will take proper steps, it might prosper. But I just heard Ombudsman Gutierrez will not resign no matter what happens, then I guess that’s a sign that justice will not prevail and the impeachment will not prosper.”

- Nicole Martir

Mabuhay Ka Bedista!

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ThE LaUNch Of ThE FOliO

By ChErrYl IrENE G. BaNaria

T

he official launch was held last February 19, 2011 at the Tavern Asia resto-bar along Aguirre Avenue in BF Homes, Paranaque City. To support the launch of the first ever literary folio of the official publication of the SBCA-SOL, students from all levels celebrated the event together with the staff of The Red Chronicles.

Unknown to many, law students are just as innately creative as they are adept with the law.

One may be surprised to know that a law student, instead of holding a book on one hand and a highlighter on the other, is holding a paintbrush and stroking beautiful colors onto a blank canvas.

Law school brings a rollercoaster kind of emotions to the student and the latter copes with it through different ways—be it through playing with colors, capturing images behind the lens, or by composing poetry or prose. All these untapped potential gave birth to the launch of Pluma--the first ever literary folio of SBCA-SOL’s The Red Chronicles.

Pluma is a Latin word which means pen or ink. It is actually a plucked feather which was used during the old era as a writing instrument.

Pluma was conceived for those who desire to have an outlet for their creative juices and for those who just wanted to have a break from the usual legalese.

SANGGUNIANG SABAW BY BRAD

LISTONE

The Red Chronicles encouraged their fellow law students, as well as their brethren from SBC-Mendiola to submit their photographs, artworks and literary pieces for Pluma. With a dash of color, a pinch of letter, a bucket of emotions, and tons of passion, Pluma was born.