When the plates of the marginalized grow cold waiting to be served, whose stomachs are filled with bounties grown from exploitation? The world has been in complete shambles—people occupying spaces that are not meant for them, with power perpetuating this phenomenon as the norm. Alas, this injustice has never been foreign, but when those born without a silver spoon resist and with trembling voices declare that enough is enough, the feast for equality shall be one attended by those whose accommodations have been long overdue.
FORWARD AND ONWARD: THE PURSUIT OF FAIRNESS
Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity—the motto of the Revolution—echo louder in the heart of our community. These ideals remind us of the profound responsibility we hold as leaders and learners in shaping a more inclusive and equitable future.
As we stand poised at the dawn of the Academic Year 2024-2025, Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) passionately reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the pursuit of quality education. This year brings opportunities for growth as we strive to enrich our learning environment, ensuring no student is left behind. Our dedication transcends the confines of the classroom, empowering IITians to navigate the complexities of an ever-evolving world with confidence and grace. By nurturing a culture that celebrates collaboration, inclusivity, and creativity, we aspire to create a flourishing community where each individual can blossom, ready to embrace the challenges and boundless possibilities that await.
From August to September, we reflect on our personal struggles and our collective journey. These months remind us that, however hard our challenges may be, our strength connects us in meaningful ways. Recognizing our shared humanity is essential as it enables us to delve deeper
into the various dimensions of equality and gives us the power to envision a future where everyone can aspire to achieve their best.
A joy in navigating the intricacies of equality is the necessity to honor the marginalized voices that call us to stand, challenge, and advocate for justice and equity. The pursuit of equality is an ongoing task that demands our unyielding commitment and compassion. It is through this commitment that we can create a more just and equitable society for all.
In this issue, we hope to catalyze conversations and actions that foster greater inclusion and empathy. As we reflect on our shared journey, we carry forward the spirit of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity, committed to making a meaningful impact in our communities. We nurture a culture where every voice is valued, every individual is empowered, and every challenge becomes an opportunity for growth.
Anthony Rivera
Anthony E. Rivera EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
FORELLEAH SHEN ESPERANZA
NEWS
Championing Factual Narratives: CCS, CHS establish The Motherboard, The Caduceus; complete MSU-IIT’s college student publications
4
FEATURE
When the Spotlight Grows Dim: The IITian Reality Check
EDITORIAL
Feast or Famine: The Bourgeois Phenomenon in Dakilang Pamantasan
COLUMN
Requisites are Hard Cardios
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6
8
SPORTS
Breaking Barriers: MSU-IIT’s Female Gamers Steadily Make Their Mark in Esports
SCI-TECH
Ting-ulan nasab, IITian! Navigating the Challenges of the Rainy Season
9
10 IN THIS
Championing Factual Narratives: CCS, CHS establish The Motherboard, The Caduceus; complete MSU-IIT’s college student publications
CARL MICHAEL ARABES & MARC NIEKKO INTAL
Following the College of Computer Studies (CCS) and College of Health Sciences (CHS) founding of The Motherboard and The Caduceus, respectively, the Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology’s (MSU-IIT) journalistic spirit is at an all-time high as it completes its roster of student publications from its seven colleges.
In recent years, campus journalism has steadily become a crucial part of the IITian community, keeping students aware of relevant happenings on and off campus. As such, each college has established and revived its publications—some with rich histories, while others are on the way to creating their own. However, they all stand for the same purpose: to uphold the aim of campus journalism, empower students, and ensure their voices are amplified.
Bridging the gap between the health community and the general public, the newly established The Caduceus of CHS sets out on a promising future, illuminating stories on societal issues, science, and health.
With its vision of promoting awareness and understanding of science and health, the publication aims to disseminate trends and factual materials, widening its scope from just and responsible journalism to health-centric services.
To amplify the voice of its constituents while upholding the values of truth, knowledge, and journalistic integrity, CCS has rebooted The Motherboard.
With a vision of fostering a more informed, engaged, and empowered college community, the publication is committed to delivering accurate, fair, and independent news that promotes the voices of its college.
For CSM, Ad Infinitum is at the forefront of sharing different stories inside and outside the college’s premises following its revival in 2023.
Although relatively young, the publication remains resolute in addressing current issues and incidents. It strives to cover the most significant events, highlight the most compelling research, and cultivate the potential of emerging writers within CSM to become conscientious truth-tellers dedicated to social progress and change.
Forming an integral part of the CASS community, CASSayuran stands as a beacon of fair and responsible journalism, providing insights and timely articles that highlight events and address current issues both on and off campus.
Standing firm since its inception, CASSayuran continues to foster a platform for marginalized perspectives, amplifying the underrepresented voices of students’ thoughts, sentiments, and aspirations by being the only publication on campus with a website.
journalism, consistently serving its community since its revival two years ago.
In its advocacy of letting student voices be heard, Sidlak steadily strives to expand its reach by upholding its values, highlighting varying perspectives on campus life, academic pursuits, and social issues, and providing a creative outlet for the community to explore different forms of expression.
Serving as an avenue for independent student opinions and stories on university and national affairs, CEBA’s Sindaw aspires to create change and become a channel for empowering student voices.
Since its reestablishment in 2023, Sindaw has committed itself to delivering compelling stories and establishing a sense of community, bringing attention to student and club achievements as well as campus initiatives.
With a mission to stimulate, initiate, and promote constructive dialogue on pertinent college and societal issues, Thu’um of COE was re-established in 2023.
As COE’s primary source of relevant collegiate information, it seeks not merely to empower the voices of its student body but also to provide opportunities to develop their potential as journalists, correspondents, and contributors, while collaborating with entities to uphold press freedom.
The Caduceus College of Health Sciences
The Motherboard College of Computer Studies
Ad Infititum College of Science and Mathematics
CASSayuran College of Arts and Social Sciences
Sidlak College of Education
Sindaw College of Economics, Business and Accountancy
Thu’um College of Engineering
Sidlak, the Official Student Publication of CED, is at the frontline of addressing issues and raising awareness through
Ad Infinitum
When the Spotlight Grows Dim:
The IITian Reality Check
Picture this: exuding naivety and confidence, you enter a room, ready to demonstrate pride built on intelligence, only to be greeted by similarly, if not more, smart brains. All the years of being under the impression that you are the ‘smart one’ crumble in the face of this unexpected recognition. In that moment, you travel the humbling terrain of shared brilliance, where the air is dense with potential and challenge.
The story starts the same for many of us, the one who had the most stars in elementary school, the top of the class in high school who everyone looked up to for answers—one who has never had to worry about falling behind. Fast forward to university, and it is a whole other ball game. Classes get more challenging, and competition gets tighter. The warm fuzzies of always being the smartest kid in any room disappear when that suddenly shifts and everyone around you seems more articulate and quicker on their intellectual feet. And then you realize that you might not be the sharpest tool in the shed.
It is not uncommon for the first semester to be the most surprising. Sitting in a lecture, taking in detailed explanations of topics you’ve only just started to learn, you can’t help but notice that other students appear to have a leg up. You arrive there discombobulated, feeling disoriented upon witnessing that topics come easily to peers while you’re there, stuck on your difficulty in solving a basic math problem. As if the foundations of your self-perception are being shaken, this disorientation can heighten feelings of inadequateness— it’s like trying to find your way through a labyrinth, where each twist and turn just adds to your perplexity.
However, within this condition of losing that spark lies an unforeseen gift: the opportunity to reclaim the delight of learning.
Thus, rather than relapsing into insecurity, you can use each situation as a call to expand your horizons. Openness unlocks doors to possibilities, where every conversation leads to fresh viewpoints and every encounter develops into a one-of-akind pattern molded by a combination of skills. Here, learning becomes about more than just trying to outdo yourself; it’s about embarking on a shared adventure where the knowledge of your peers can only improve your experience.
So maybe, when you are not the smartest person in the room, you are in the right one.
It is easy to withdraw inside yourself when you are doubtful of something; you may avoid lively conversations and minimize your thoughts. One thing becomes clear as you try to find your balance: you have company. Although some may seem to have everything under control, the truth is that every student faces their own set of obstacles. Group projects become learning opportunities, conversations become exchanges of viewpoints, and hurdles become fuel for resolve when we embrace this discomfort.
ERIKA BARRETTO
At the end of the day, you’ll realize that sharing this experience with someone else helps you learn and grow, which, in turn, lifts your spirits.
In the end, it’s no longer about being the smartest in the room. It’s about how much you’re willing to grow, to be stretched, and to be challenged. Being surrounded by people who push you beyond your limits becomes the most valuable part of the experience. After all, if you’re always the smartest, where’s the room for growth?
The truth hits you when you realize that this is what university life is about; not proving your intelligence but constantly expanding it. And once you let go of the need to be the best—that’s when you start to thrive.
In the Philippines, the pursuit of tertiary education has become a grotesque display of inequality, where the privileged gorge themselves at the public’s expense while the underprivileged are left to starve. The enactment of Republic Act 10931 was supposed to democratize access to education; instead, it bared the festering wound of a broken system that continues to be exploited by the affluent.
The term “burgis,” a slang derived from the French word bourgeoisie—famously critiqued by Karl Marx to describe the capitalist class that exploits the working masses—has found new life in Filipino social media. Now, it’s used to call out affluent students who, despite their wealth, choose to occupy State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) meant for the underprivileged. These “burgis” kids, with their cars, designer clothes, and international vacations, are not just students; they are symbols of a system that caters to the rich at the expense of the poor.
The so-called “opportunity” that state universities offer is not available to everyone. The free tuition under RA 10931 was supposedly a lifeline for students who couldn’t afford it. But instead of helping those in need, the system has been hijacked by those who can easily afford private institutions. The sad reality is that SUCs, once intended as vehicles for social mobility, are now playgrounds for the elite.
SUCs and Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs) conduct their own admission exams, with the System Admission and Scholarship Examination (SASE) in the Mindanao State University (MSU) System being one such tool to assess eligibility.
Considering these admission policies, students must first prove they are apt to benefit from the national subsidy for free college education. This raises a problem: the meritocratic system tends to
FEAST OR FEAST OR FEAST OR FEAST OR FEAST OR The Bourgeois Phenomenon
favor certain socioeconomic classes. Notice that students from affluent families, who can afford prestigious high schools, are more likely to receive higher-quality education. The reasoning is straightforward— “prestigious” schools charge higher tuition to attract top-tier teachers who deliver superior learning experiences. Additionally, wealthier students can afford review classes, giving them an edge in preparing for entrance exams. These advantages are often out of reach for poorer students, making it harder for them to compete on equal footing.
State universities such as the University of the Philippines (UP), Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), and MSU-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) have become increasingly attractive options not just for students of lower socioeconomic standing but also those who could easily afford private institutions. While affordability is a factor, the prestige of these universities plays a significant role in their appeal. The admissions processes alone solidifies their reputation as centers of excellence. Furthermore, the quality of education at these state universities is often comparable, if not superior, to their private counterparts. UP consistently performs well in global rankings like the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, while MSUIIT has also made strides by attaining “Reporter” status in the 2024 rankings. This underscores their commitment to world-class education, making them highly sought-after institutions for students aiming for both academic rigor and prestige.
To provide a more holistic evaluation, MSU-IIT introduced the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusivity (EDI) Policy, which secures 10% of admissions for students from underrepresented backgrounds, considering their financial status and indigenous identity. Admirable but let’s not kid ourselves—if MSU-IIT really wants to walk the talk, it needs to do more. EDI should not be the only solution.
REY SIALANA & LORGINIA
FAMINE
FAMINE
FAMINE
FAMINE
in Dakilang Pamantasan
DANSIL HAWARI
The notion that SUCs, once bastions of opportunity for the underprivileged, are now dominated by the affluent is a bitter pill to swallow. It starkly contrasts with the historical narrative of these institutions serving as avenues for social mobility. Today, however, the sight of students driving personal cars and sporting the latest gadgets on campuses has become commonplace. This raises the question: who truly benefits from the public funding allocated to these institutions?
In light of this, many criticize “burgis” who choose to study at SUCs, arguing that they are widening the gap by taking advantage of the system. However, it’s essential to remember that these institutions are open to everyone, and attending them is a matter of personal choice. The real issue isn’t why so many wealthy students are getting in, but why so many poor students are being left out. We must confront the fact that the quality of education in the country remains alarmingly low—a problem that is far from new.
The problem lies not solely with the SUCs, but with the systemic flaws that perpetrate the wealthy to exploit the educational system for their advantage. The government’s failure to provide quality education across the board has created a vacuum that the wealthy are all too happy to fill, further entrenching the divide between the rich and the poor. The argument that wealthy students deserve a place in SUCs based on their academic merit is flawed. While academic achievement is important, so is considering the broader context in which that achievement is attained. Students from affluent backgrounds have access to resources and opportunities that their less fortunate peers simply do not have.
The idea that taxpayers—many of whom struggle to make ends meet—are subsidizing the education of the affluent is not just absurd; it’s a gross injustice. It’s akin to letting someone who can afford a
buffet take food off the plates of those who are starving. The “burgis” may argue that they earned their spot through academic merit, but this is hollow when it’s bought and paid for by privilege. This is a clear injustice that cannot be ignored. It’s like taking one’s meal when you can afford a buffet.
The government is responsible to ensure that education is not only accessible but also equitable. This means investing in quality education for the marginalized and indigenous communities that have long been left behind. Until we address these systemic issues, we cannot claim to have an education system that serves everyone equally.
The educational crisis in the country is not just about access; it’s about fairness, equity, and justice. The government must step up to ensure that every student, regardless of their background, has access to quality education. Only by leveling the playing field can we truly say that everyone has an equal opportunity to take a seat at the table, ensuring that no one has to give up their spot at the feast.
To the “burgis” of Dakilang Pamantasan, it’s time for you to wake up and face the reality of your actions. Recognize your privilege, and acknowledge the broken system you’re exploiting. Your pursuit of prestige at the expense of others is not just selfish—it is morally reprehensible, for there are most who lack your resources dream of being in your place to lift themselves out of poverty. If you’re truly as intelligent as your test scores suggest, then surely you can comprehend the ethical implications of your choices. The educational crisis in the Philippines is real, and your presence in this state university is exacerbating it.
Remember: history will judge you harshly if you continue to feast while others go hungry.
When a Dos Hits Like a
Dos Por Dos
At Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), the pursuit of a 1.0 grade is more than just an academic goal; it’s a rite of passage.
For IITians, it’s
a testament to hard work, brilliance, and the promise of a place on Rizal’s list. Armed with study plans and countless sleepless nights fueled by caffeine, IITians throw themselves into the semester, convinced that uno is within reach.
Like an environmentalist fascinated by the greens of the forest, you stand in awe of the crown of green, hilaw grades, its shades creating a bountiful landscape of studious excellence: “What a forest!” you exclaim.
Until it isn’t.
In that forest, in that midst, there is a single, thin streak of yellow sunlight. But unlike sunlight, there is no warmth—only the cold, dry slap of a devastating dos
Requisites are Hard Cardios
For most, one Philippine peso equates to one drop of sweat from paid labor. For a Filipino book costing 380 pesos, one would have to produce 380 sweats to afford it. At such a steep price, it’s hardly surprising that IITians resort to the illegal trade of buying secondhand books at a much lower price, even if it means potentially being charged with copyright infringement.
Still, many are willing to risk it. Tragically, for others, presenting unmarked Filipino books is requisite to pass their FIL10x courses. Sad news: such is a rarity. This means that while some buy brand-new books for an extra 30 points, others are required to buy—period.
As much as it disturbs me, I get the point. Buying a copy of the book supports the journey to nationwide acknowledgement, eyeing the goal
of making them requisitory in higher education. And while earning 380 pesos is laborious, books are extensions; they’re needed. But for an ordinary labor worker, or a child of one, this kind of support is a luxury.
Money is tight because everything else is expensive; as of August 2024, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported the uptrend of inflation rate in Northern Mindanao. Even if professors give ample time, say two exam quarters, for students to save enough to purchase the book, I fear it doesn’t solve the problem. The issue lies with the requisition to buy new when options are available—not to mention that it’ll collect dust after the semester ends.
Your first dos. This stark reminder of being ‘almost there’ resonates deeply, whispering, “You did well, but not well enough.”
The impact hits harder than a dos por dos plank, crumbling the dreams built on long study nights.
However, a dos isn’t a failure—it’s a call to recalibrate, to grow, and to try again. It teaches you early on that hard work doesn’t always guarantee success. It’s a preview of real life outside college.
When a dos hits like a dos por dos, it doesn’t define you—it refines you. At Dakilang Pamantasan, the mantra rings true: to influence the future, you must first be influenced by life’s lessons—sometimes in the form of a humbling dos.
Much as we wave the “sustainable” flag of the university, this might be a good
start to back up our slogan. While most of us understand why such extremities are made, opting for the gallant move of toning down the constraint of choices would lighten the burden of having the need to sweat 380 times more.
GIAN PRINCE JABAGAT & JESSE VICTOR MAISOG
AKRISHA GRACE HANGKA
COLUMN
PHOTO BY • ANGELO BRYAN REVELO
BREAKING BOUNDARIES:
MSU-IIT’S FEMALE GAMERS STEADILY MAKE THEIR MARK IN ESPORTS
IAN MIGUEL SALVANERA & KATE ANGELA CABRERA
Esports has rapidly gained traction worldwide, yet it remains a maledominated space, especially at high levels of competition. However, at Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), female gamers are stepping up and proving that they belong in this arena through initiatives in forming an all-female team in Call of Duty: Mobile (COD:M), where players are paving the way for gender inclusivity in esports.
Among these trailblazers is Precious Jean “Thalia” Macas, from the College of Computer Studies (CCS), who recently made waves as the only female competitor of MSU-IIT Titans Esports (MTE) Sylph during the Philippine Collegiate Championship (PCC) Season 2 Regional Cup COD:M. Reflecting on her experience in this intense, male-dominated environment, she shared, “Competing in the PCC Mindanao Qualifiers as the only woman was definitely tough, but what made all the difference this time was the incredible support from my teammates. They always had my back, constantly motivating me, and I never once felt out of place.”
Macas has often found herself in situations where her gender became a point of doubt for others. In one scrimmage, a microphone bug allowed her team to overhear their opponents underestimating her:
“I was the last one left to clutch the game, and I heard them say, ‘Babae lang yan, pre,’ as if that meant I couldn’t handle the pressure,”
Precious Jean Macas
MSU-IIT TITANS ESPORTS (MTE) PLAYER
Rather than letting moments like these get her down, she used them as motivation to prove her skills on the battlefield, saying, “I stay focused on my performance and let my gameplay speak for itself.”
And in true feminist fashion, she won that game.
Macas’ journey is an extensive push to foster more opportunities for women in esports. Jabez Jean
Ventic, from the College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS), and the Chief of Gaming Officer of MTE, is at the forefront of forming all-female teams for the different games, including COD:M. “As much as possible, we try to form a female team for all the games because of the growing community and female league tournaments,” Ventic explained. The initiative aims to provide female students with a platform where they can grow, feel supported, and showcase their talents in a competitive setting.
However, the road has not been without its challenges. “I struggled to maintain the activeness of the female teams,” Ventic admitted. “There are fewer tournaments for females than for males, and it is challenging to boost player morale, especially when there are fewer opportunities for them to compete.”
Despite these obstacles, Ventic, together with the managers of different games, remains committed to doing their best in providing female gamers a space where they can thrive and maintain their activeness despite fewer tournaments.
Macas’ participation in major tournaments like the PCC Mindanao Qualifiers, combined with Ventic’s leadership in forming all-female teams, is pushing boundaries for women in esports at MSU-IIT and beyond. Sharing her hope that her performance would encourage more women to pursue their passion for gaming, “I want to inspire other women, proving that we have the talent and determination to excel in esports,” Macas said.
Through the efforts of players like Macas and leaders like Ventic, MSU-IIT’s female gamers are setting new standards in the region’s competitive gaming scene. Their persistence and accomplishments are breaking down the barriers that once kept women aside.
PHOTO FROM • JEAN MACAS, JEAN VENTIC, & JEFF BALSAMO
JOHN JIMENEZ
Ting-ulan nasab, IITian1
Navigating the Challenges of the Rainy Season
JEMUEL ADRIAN MONGADO & ALYSSON CAMPOS
Hala, dag-um na sad! Ka-da ka’g payong?
While some would associate the ‘Ber months with Mariah Carey and Jose Mari Chan setting the timer for December’s festivities, many IITians, who still have everyday classes to clock into, see a more immediate and notso-merry concern—the rainy season. Wet clothes, ruined laundry, forgotten umbrellas, the cold yet hellish commute home, the ahchoos, and the chills of 38°C fevers. Strap in, folks, as we brace once again for several months of wet, muddy, chilly, and chaotic daily kumbate against these forces of nature.
Drenched and Drained
Spanning the months of June to November, the rainy season in the Philippines is heavily attributed to the rains brought by the southwest monsoon or hanging
habagat, the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), and the tropical storms that are more frequent during this period. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), in its rainy season declaration on the 29th of May, already alarmed the public of adverse weather conditions, heavy rains, and possible flash floods.
IITians, however, are expected to embody the rain-or-shine spirit, lest we get our grades docked—even if it means going to the lengths of tiptoeing around stagnant puddles of rainwater, enduring heavier traffic at Tibanga, and sucking it up with colds and fevers. Students also have to combat messy schedules due to abrupt class cancellations, campus inaccessibility caused by flooding, and all the nuisances that come with rainy weather hampering academics.
From the Storms come Sickness
Among other pressing matters are the diseases associated with the rainy season, which the Department of Health (DOH) has coined the “water-borne, influenza, leptospirosis and dengue” (WILD) diseases. Frequent heavy rains often result in flash floods and leave behind stagnant water like puddles on the road, drainage systems, or in drums and tires left in the open, which are perfect breeding grounds for mosquito-borne diseases like dengue. Contact with these sources can lead to catching diseases such as leptospirosis, cholera, and diarrhea. Influenza, as an airborne disease, is also common in rainy seasons due to viral proliferation.
Rain-Ready Remedies
To adapt, we should consider daily routines to account for the inconveniences of rainy weather and keep ourselves safe. Many of these can be laid out before heading out for the day—monitoring weather forecasts, securing access to an umbrella or raincoat, wearing rain-resistant footwear for navigating flooded roads, traveling light, and planning where to take shelter during a sudden downpour. When outside, checking the skies for indications of rain should become a habit. If rain seems certain, heading home as soon as possible might be the best bet.
Critical in prepping for the rainy season is keeping in mind the precautions for diseases. For colds and fevers, always wear face masks and sneeze or cough carefully to avoid spreading the virus; rest well and have fever medicine in stock or on hand. To counter the WILD diseases, avoid contact or close proximity with stagnant sources of water, and actively clear them when possible.
Nature spares no one, so all we can do is adapt and get on with our lives. Navigating our academics against challenges like this is par for the course as IITians. Nonetheless, our well-being remains paramount. It is in our prudence that we prove that nothing nature throws at us can stop us from reaching our goals.
Hey, You Shouldn’t Mix Those on Your Plate!
Laidback or lavish gatherings, Filipino cuisine is well-known for its unique flavors and diverse food combinations. Even in household settings, Pinoys have their own kind of mix-and-match.
But are these combinations entirely good? Science shows that some of our favorite food pairings might not be as compatible as they appear and could even be a recipe for digestive disaster, unbeknownst to us. Hence, recognizing the right pairings from the poor ones opens the door to a more satisfying and healthier dining experience. Here are typical combinations you need to watch out for.
High Carb-Sugar Combo: The Sweet Trap
“There’s always room for dessert,” they say. A high-carbohydrate meal feels incomplete without a soda or dessert, with many believing that it helps digestion. Common Filipino combinations like soft drinks after sinigang or a mango float after a rice-bihon-spaghetti combo have become classic faves. Sweet!
However, a study detailing the effects of Western diet on metabolism and health found that, rather than speeding up digestion, added sugars and refined carbohydrates actually slow it down, contributing to weight gain, obesity, and an increased risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The
spike of emotions you feel could actually be the spike of blood sugar levels!
Instead, opt for healthier alternatives like fruits, nuts, or plain yogurt to satisfy your panghimagas cravings.
Fruit and Milk Combo: Dairy ta luya!
A refreshing fruit shake surely makes one quench under the harsh Philippine heat. However, dieticians warn that combining fruit and milk may cause digestive discomfort, including bloating due to fermentation and hindered nutrient absorption. This includes other acidic fruits like lanzones and pineapple.
It is better to enjoy your mango shake or citrus fruits separately, or with nondairy options.
Spicy Foods with Soft Drinks Combo: Too Hot to Handle
Spicy noodles and Coke combo might actually be the opposite of “life-saver” for dormers and students on a budget. We all like some kick to our food from time to time, but it’s essential to note that spicy instant noodles as well as canned goods may contain high sodium levels associated with chronic diseases. Pairing spicy dishes like Bicol express, sisig, etc., with soft drinks can irritate
the stomach lining, leading to inflammation, ulcers, and even precancerous conditions in the long run, according to a 2020 study.
For a healthier option, pair spicy dishes with cooling sides like atchara (pickled papaya) or simply drink water to neutralize the heat and reduce acidity.
Balance is Key
Don’t feel too bad about these guilty pleasures, insan. While the things we mentioned may have hit hard on the flank, there are also food combos that work synergistically to enhance nutrient absorption and deliver complementary health benefits, promoting overall wellness.
Budget-friendly combos like kamote and sardines offer a mix of complex carbs, fiber, and heart-healthy omega-3s. Classic Filipino pairings like ampalaya and egg help regulate blood sugar while providing protein, and a simple drink like ginger tea with turmeric offers anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.
At the end of the day, it’s not about cutting out your favorites but finding a balance. Moderation is crucial—enjoy your favorite dishes while being mindful of what you combine on your plate. Next time someone offers you tempting but harmful delights, try practicing these simple magic words: “I think I’ll pass muna.”
