News Magazine Volume I Issue Number I

The Flare Ang Opisyal na Pahayagan ng mga Mag-aaral ng Cavite State Univesity - Imus Campus

NEWS MAGAZINE VOL. 1 ISSUE NO. 1 | SETYEMBRE 2020 - AGOSTO 2021

A beacon of hope:

BALITA

NTF spox red-tags progressives in CvSU webinar EDITORYAL

#LigtasNaBalikEskwela OPINYON

The artist’s role LATHALAIN

#ThrowbackThursday: CvSU at Acads Year 2020-21 ISPORTS

Prep for perfection: Gilas’ road to seamless ACQ record

COVID-19 survivors’ triumph over distress PAHINA 24

Kuha ni Nastassja Braceros

News Magazine Unang Bolyum, Isyu Bilang Isa Karapatang Ari 2021 The Flare Ang Opisyal na Pahayagan ng mga Mag-aaral ng Cavite State University - Imus Campus Kasapi ng College Editors Guild of the Philippines Lahat ng akda sa publikasyong ito ay hindi maaaring kopyahin at ilathala sa anumang paraan nang walang pahintulot ng mga may akda at ng pahayagan.

Gayundin, sa mga larawan, sining at disenyong nakapaloob sa magasin.

Nananatili ang karapatang sipi nito sa mga manunulat, litratista, debuhista at mga nag-aayos ng pahina at pamunuan ng The Flare.

Pamuhatan: The Flare 2/F Rm. 202 Main Building Cavite State University-Imus Campus Palico IV, Cavite Civic Center, City of Imus, Cavite facebook.com/theflarecvsuimus theflarecvsuimus.wordpress.com sputheflare.cvsuimus@gmail.com issuu.com/sputheflare2012

Guhit ni Rafaela Janna Babaran

Kuha ni Andie Boqueo

Tungkol sa Pabalat Ikaw na mambabasang nakatingin sa kadiliman ng pandemya. Batid mong maraming problema at paghihirap na pinagdaraanan ang sambayanang Pilipino. Kalakip ng mga danas na ito ang lantad na kapabayaan ng mga nasa itaas upang matugunan ang mga pangangailangan ng mga nasa laylayan ng lipunan. Mas inuna pa nilang atupagin ang pansariling interes. Tila wala na yatang nakakahawang sakit ngayon sapagkat sa iba’t ibang panig ng bansa, sila roo’y nagpapakitang-gilas at nagpapanggap na makatao, makadiyos at makabayan.

Habang naghihingalo ang sistemang pangkalusugan, lugmok ang ekonomiyang nilubog ng walang direksiyong pamamahala at banta ng COVID-19 ay nariyan pa rin, hindi maaaring manahimik at magpanggap sa katotohanan ang mga mamamahayag pangkampus. Kailangang panatilihing buhay ang panulat upang magsiwalat at magmulat.

Kaya naman inihahandog sa inyo ng The Flare, ang opisyal na pahayagan ng mga mag-aaral ng Cavite State University - Imus Campus, ang unang edisyon ng kanilang news magazine.

Hangad ng publikasyong itong magsilbing liwanag para sa masa. Magkasama nating balikan ang mga balita at kuwentong nangyari sa loob at labas ng unibersidad sa Taong Panuruan 2020-2021.

Magkaisa tayong tumindig, sumulong at bumoses para sa progresong nararapat para sa mamamayang nakikibaka upang mairaos ang isang araw. CvSUeño, hindi ka estudyante lang, iskolar ka ng bayan. Kaisa mo kami sa pagsuong sa daluyong ng panahon. Magkasama nating iguhit ang kinabukasan ng ating bayan.

Kuha ni Howard Christian Marquez

Mensahe Mula sa Punong Patnugot Hangga’t may patuloy na nakararanas ng marhinalisasyon, pang-aabuso at panggigipit, hindi maaaring manahimik at huminto sa pagboses. Sa panahong lantad ang kapabayaan ng pamahalaan upang tugunan ang hinaing ng mamamayan, walang lugar ang pagbubulag-bulagan at pagbibingi-bingihan. Oras nang manindigan, tumindig at sumulong upang ipaglaban ang karapatan ng nakararami.

Pakatatandaang nating may lugar ang pagpuna sa ating bansa. Balido ang pagrereklamo at may mararating. Ito’y demokratikong responsibilidad na kailangan nating gampanan upang maituwid ang baluktot na sistema. Ang malayang pamamahayag ay isang sandatang maaaring gamitin upang usigin ang mga opisyal ng pamahalaang mas inuna pang atupagin ang kanilang pansariling interes. Mariin din nating tutulan at kundenahin ang walang habas na paglapastangan ng gobyerno sa karapatan ng mga Pilipinong magbigay kritisismo sa kanilang palpak na pamamahala.

Taas-kamaong nakikiisa ang The Flare, ang opisyal na pahayagan ng mga mag-aaral ng Cavite State University-Imus Campus, sa mga panawagan upang iparinig ang tinig ng mga maralita. Sa pamamagitan ng pagsulat ng artikulo, pagkuha ng litrato, pagguhit ng debuho at pag-aayos ng pahina, ating pag-alabin ang apoy ng nasyolinasmo at patriyotismo tungo sa kinabukasang may pagkakapantay-pantay, pakikipagkapwa tao at pagpapahalaga sa buhay.

Malugod ding inihahandog sa inyo ng aming publikasyon ang kauna-unahan nitong news magazine.

Hangad nitong magbalik-tanaw sa samot-saring balita’t kuwentong sumasalamin sa mga naging danas ng mga CvSUeño at Pilipino sa gitna ng pandemyang dala’y paghihikahos at kawalang kasiguraduhan.

Bukod pa rito, layunin din nitong ilahad ang iba’t ibang pananaw ng mga miyembro ukol sa mga isyung kinaharap ng bansa sa ilalim ng administrasyong Duterte. Gayundin, ang pagbibigay pag-asa’t inspirasyon sa bawat isa na magpatuloy sa kabila ng mga hamon ng buhay.

Ating sandigan ang kritikal at progresibong pamamahayag upang hubaran ang nagbabalat-kayong kasinungalingan. Bukod-tanging katotohanan lamang ang ating piliin. Kaya naman, tayo’y sumulat upang magsiwalat at ialay ang tinta ng pluma para sa masa.

Mga kapwa namin Iskolar ng Bayan, tayo’y tumindig, bumoses at sumulong!

Rodolfo D. Dacleson II PUNONG PATNUGOT

Nilalaman 12 Balita CvSU welcomes new CSG officers, org leaders 18 Editoryal #LigtasNaBalikEskwela 20 Opinyon Vox populi, vox dei 22 Pulsong CvSUeño Lathalain 24 A beacon of hope: COVID-19 survivors’ triumph over distress

28 Debuhista Litratista 30 Potraits of the Pandemic: How LGUs respond to the COVID-19 health crisis?

33 Panitikan May Tsismis Ako

36

Isports

Esports: The world of Filipino gamers amid pandemic

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Kuha ni Wayne Gerodias

12-13 | Balita

CvSU welcomes new CSG officers, org leaders I-Quality, wins by landslide votes

CvSU-Imus meets CSG, student org candidates virtually

by Angela Advincula and Gabriel Louiz Paredes

I

SERVING THE STUDENTRY. The new set of Central Student Government (CSG) along with other student organizations and The Flare's Editorial Board for Academic Year 2020-2021 took their oath last January 11, 2021.

(Oathtaking screenshot)

by Danielle Nicole Tolentino

C

vSU-Imus Honor Society announced the winners of the recently concluded Election 2020 last December 8 via their Facebook page.

I-QUALITY candidates got landslide wins in the Central Student Government (CSG) election against their SANAOL counterparts with Acmad Bacolod winning the presidential race while Christian Favor and May Ann Obias also secured the Vice President-Internal and Vice PresidentExternal post, respectively.

Moreover, running Secretary Apple Onesa, Treasurer Adrian Rodriguez, Auditor Christine Joy Coral, and Public

Relations Officer (PRO) Chei Marielle Carpio claimed their respective positions after earning the majority of the online votes.

Included in the list are newly elected Student Academic Program (SAP) Ambassadors Genie Lhyn Galo (SMS), Rizza Dilao (EDGE), Daylight Abas (CAVCOMM), Jeigo Rubis (CSC), Samantha Torres (BITS), Edmarie De Vega (BMSOC), Jerico Dumadapat (CYLE), Mary Ranchelle Ong (CHATS), and Christoval De Guzman (YOPA).

Official results and voters’ turnout of CSG and other student organizations were already posted on the CvSUImus Honor Society’s Facebook page.

Honor Soc explains delay of student election results

by Ayella Cremat

C

vSU-Imus Honor Society shared the reasons for the postponement of the Election 2020 results dated supposedly on November 28, 2020.

Honor Society President Princess Joy Ordonez explained that assessments and obtaining approvals for organizations that failed to reach the minimum voting quota were the reasons for the delay in the announcement of election winners.

“Na-delay ang announcement ng winners dahil may mga bagay na kinakailangan ikonsidera katulad na lamang ng pagbuo ng desisyon at pagpapa-approve ng letter tungkol sa mga organization na hindi nakaabot sa quota,” said Ordoñez.

According to the electoral system adopted by the COMELEC, every course organization is required to gain at least 50% plus 1 vote of their respective populations as well as unopposed Central Student Government (CSG) candidates to be declared as winners.

“

...every course organization is required to gain at least 50% plus 1 vote of their respective populations as well as unopposed Central Student Government (CSG) candidates to be declared as winners.

“But then, no worries na, kasi naayos na ito at napagusapan na ng mga kinauukulan kung kaya’t nakapagannounce na. Dapat ay November 28 ang announcement ngunit na-extend ang election kaya hindi ito nangyari.” she clarified.

Moreover, Ordoñez stated that the voting period was also extended as not all students are capable of voting during the election dates.

“Isa ring dahilan ay mayroong mga estudyante na nagtatrabaho at sa oras na sila ay pupwede na makaboto ay oras naman ng cut-off sa pagboto,” she shared.

The Honor Soc served as the Commission on Election (COMELEC) for the recently concluded virtual election as duly appointed by the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS).

MUS CITY, Cavite — Candidates for the Central Student Government (CSG) positions showed their wit and charm as they answered various questions during the online Miting de Avance (MDA) spearheaded by the CvSU-Imus Honor Society Saturday, November 21.

On the Honor Society’s Facebook page, aspiring CSG Presidents Beverly Joyce Luyas (SANAOL) and Acmad Bacolod (IQuality) exchanged answers during the Q & A segment to punctuate the whole day MDA supervised by the Commission on Election (COMELEC).

MDA was slated to help the students meet and understand the candidates.

In addition, it provides aspiring student leaders the opportunity to extend their platforms among the studentry as they try to prove themselves worthy of the position they pursue.

Each candidate was given a chance to answer questions from COMELEC, rival partylist, fellow candidate, and studentry.

Various partylist from each student organization were also part of the event as they introduced themselves to their respective programs.

Partylist included are LEAD (BMSOC), COVID (BITS), BIDA (YOPA), ARIBA and SMILE (CHATS), DIWA and SIKLAB (SMS), NATION BUILDERS (CYLE), CPU and SEMICOLON (CSC), HAPPY (CavComm), and CONSECATIO EXCELLENTIAE (EDGE).

In an interview, Honor Society President Princess Joy Ordoñez shared the difficulties of holding the first-ever virtual miting de avance as they encountered a few technical difficulties along the way.

Moreover, she also mentioned the conflict arousing from the side of the candidates with poor internet connection.

“I can say na naging successful ang nangyaring miting de avance kahapon since nai-deliver naman halos lahat ng questions and nasagot ito ng maayos ng mga candidates na makakatulong sa voters na mas makilala pa sila ng husto.” Ordoñes said as her team managed to finish the event successfully.

The official election will run from November 23-26 while the ballot counting will proceed on November 27-28.

Election winners will be announced on Nov. 28, 2020.

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CvSU stud leaders congregate, begin call for ‘No Failing Grade’

by Rodolfo Dacleson II

I

n light of the grievances of CvSUeños, the Central Student GovernmentMain Campus along with CvSU student organizations and councils, began their campaign for the No Failing Grade Policy, Saturday, Jan. 9, 2021, via a press release It cannot on Facebook. be The campaign came denied after the second All that Leaders Meeting (ALM) many students are where CvSU student being left behind leaders agreed to amplify considering the the call for different status, #CvSUWalangIwanan.

As stated in the press situation, coping mechanisms and release, the initiative is the fact the not the answer of CvSU’s highest student governing everyone has the same privileges.” body to the complaints raised by students who are struggling with the new mode of learning.

In addition, the post stated that the new normal setup brought marginalization among students as it does not provide equal opportunities.

“It cannot be denied that many students are being left behind considering the different status, situation, coping mechanisms and the fact the not everyone has the same privileges.”

CSG-Main President Elgerard Anciro shared that their page kept on receiving a barrage of grievances from the students who are having difficulty in the new mode of learning.

“Araw-araw napakaraming nagme-message sa page ng CSG. Pinakamababa na yung 20 sa isang araw na natatanggap namin.” Anciro said.

“Marami talagang nagse-share nung mga problema na kinakaharap nila (this academic year). Ito talaga yung nagtulak sa amin na ano, talagang kailangan na nating ikasa itong No Failing Grade Policy.”

CSG encouraged every CvSUeño to join their call for the said policy as they believed that no one deserves to be left behind in the distance learning system implemented by the university.

“

CSG-Imus backs ‘No Failing Grade Policy’

by Jaylla Perez

T

he Central Student Government (CSG)-Imus Campus expressed their support for the No Failing Grade Policy campaign initiated by the CSG-Main Campus last January 9, 2021.

CSG-Imus President Acmad Bacolod stated that the policy might help students who are struggling with the new mode of learning and possibly left behind.

“Makikinabang ang lahat ng CvSU students kung susuportahan natin ito,” Bacolod said in an interview.

“Very unfortunate kasi na-decline ’yung request.

Nakakalungkot kasi hindi napagbigyan ng CvSU system. Doon sana madi-discuss nila yung situations ng mga student ngayong pandemic,” he shared.

Last Tuesday, January 11, the Office of the President declined CSG-Main’s request for public dialogue as the university is strictly following health protocols as per DOH COVID Advisory No. 7 or the cancellation of mass gatherings, explained the Office of the Student Affairs and Services (OSAS).

The Flare EIC tops Bracket C; among first NCPO champs

by Ruth Raima Servida

I

MUS CITY, Cavite — BA Journalism student Rodolfo D. Dacleson II won first place in the first -ever National Campus Press Olympiad (NCPO) held virtually last May 14, 2021.

Dacleson II, editor-in-chief of The Flare — the official student publication unit of Cavite State University Imus Campus — bested his fellow college sports writers across the Philippines to bag the Sports Writing English category (Bracket C) tilt.

In the awarding ceremony, CALABARZON garnered 26 medals in the individual print events — Dacleson II is one of their six gold medalists — to place as runner-up among the country’s 17 regions.

“It is practice for me and [a] mode of entertainment at the same time so I don’t hesitate to

Rodolfo Dacleson II participate.” Dacleson II shared in an interview via Messenger, as he decided to join the said competition after seeing NCPO’s promotional poster on Facebook.

“You can’t see your competitors compared from the traditional face-to -face press conference. Besides, we didn’t watch a live sporting event unlike before.” the incoming fourth year student shared as he cited the difference between campus journalism press conferences before and during pandemic.

Adjusting to the pandemic and

community quarantine protocols may have been hard but Dacleson II didn’t let this chance to improve himself slip out of his hand.

“Well, we always need to find a room to showcase our skills and talent. We shouldn’t let our creativity and critical thinking go in vain.” The Flare EIC’s tip on how to stay productive even in the middle of the pandemic.

“Although, I could say that I’m privileged enough to join the nationwide competition held virtually, so I won’t tell that this tip applies to everyone. We must remember to respect every student’s socio-economic status.” he concluded.

Best Designed Campus Papers of the Philippines (BDCP) organized NCPO 2021 to help Filipino campus journalists and aspiring media practitioners in honing their craft through friendly competitions amid the ongoing health crisis.

Kuha at edited nina Byron Peter Nocon, Paul John Mendez, and Andie Boqueo

NTF spox red-tags progressives in CvSU webinar

by Rickie Cathleen Javier

I

NDANG, Cavite — National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF -ELCAC) rep. Army Col. Erwin Alea labeled progressive groups as communists during a webinar held by Cavite State University-Main Campus last October 24, 2020.

During the Strengthened Alliance on Fight Against Illegal Drugs and Terrorism (SAFER) meant for the National Service Training Program (NSTP) class orientation, Alea red-tagged the College Editors Guild of the Philippines (CEGP), League of Filipino Students (LFS), National Union of Students of the Philippines (NUSP), Gabriela, Anakbayan, and Kabataan Partylist.

Alea showed a video about communist recruitment and how they brainwash new students to over 1,000 freshmen from CvSU-Main who attended the four-hour live orientation for the NSTP. He also warned students about certain professors who are members of the communist movement, and the dangers of becoming a rebel, leftist, and activist.

The student alliances CvSU Kilos Na and LSU-Cavite denounced the school administration and University Pres.

Dr. Hernando P. Robles for allowing the arbitrary redtagging of groups and individuals during the webinar.

On the other hand, the CvSU administration claimed that Alea’s presentation does not represent the university’s

views, and it’s up to the students to believe him or not.

On his Facebook page, Cavite Gov. Jonvic Remulla released a statement in response to the incident at the province’s university as he found the issue alarming.

“Ako ay nababahala sa red-tagging operations na isinasagawa ng ilang sangay ng Sandatahang Lakas ng Republika ng Pilipinas.” Remulla said.

“If you or any of your men put up similar posters or tarpaulins in the province of Cavite, they will not last a day! I will personally lead the effort to tear your propaganda posters down. Brand me a communist if you will but it is my sworn duty to defend Cavite’s record in holding the insurgency at bay.” he added.

Remulla even chastised NTF-ELCAC’s spokesperson Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade, who also branded celebrities like Catriona Gray, Liza Soberano, and Angel Locsin as communist supporters for speaking out on human and women’s rights.

“Threatening progressive and outspoken women who want to encourage a stronger feminist culture? That does not make them co-conspirators nor allies of the left wing.

Kahit si Yorme na nagtanggal lamang ng mga posters ay tinagurian agad na sympathizer.” he commented.

“Okay ka lang, Parlade? Your train of thought and reasoning are preposterous and shifty. If you want to threaten the lives of public personalities, may I suggest that you try knocking out someone in the same weight class?” Remulla added in his statement.

14 | Balita

News Magazine Bolyum I Isyu Bilang I The Flare | Ang Opisyal na Pahayagan ng mga Mag-aaral ng Cavite State University - Imus Campus

Families cry alleged torture

CvSU-Imus grad, slain on Bloody Sunday KPL gives Duterte admin failing score

by Germar Erfe

K

abataan Partylist (KPL) solon Sarah Elago delivered the collated youth opinion during the State of the Youth Address (SOYA), giving the Duterte regime a flunker grade last July 19, 2021. “... Bagsak dahil limang taon nang korap, nang palpak ang pamamahala ni Duterte sa ating bayan at lalo pa iyong nakita sa gitna ng pandemya.” said Elago.

“Kaya ang grado ng kabataan ay isa.

Iyong pinakamababa na grado dahil hindi katanggap-tanggap iyong tindi ng mga panunupil at pamamasismo at pamamaslang na naranasan ng taumbayan mula sa madugong giyera kontra droga hanggang sa mga crackdown sa mga outspoken, sa mga kritiko ng Duterte administration.” she added.

Elago narrated the current progress of House Bill 319 or the Campus Press Freedom Bill that aims to penalize campus press freedom violators by amending Republic Act 7079 or the Campus Journalism Act of 1991.

She reiterated that campus publications should be unified to urge the Congress to take action as HB 319 is still on hang.

When asked about her plan for the 2022 national elections, Elago told The Flare that she had no plans to run for a higher position.

However, the youth solon firmly confirmed that KPL will continue to run in the partylist system despite several attacks.

SLAIN FISHERFOLK. UMALPAS KA staff Chai Lemita and Ariel Evangelista were confirmed dead after their bodies are found in John Paul Funeral in Nasugbu, Batangas last March 7. (Larawan mula Pamantik KMU Facebook page)

43% of Filipinos willing to get COVID jabs—survey

by Julienne Eunice Irinco

A

recent survey revealed that the number of Filipinos willing to get inoculated against COVID-19 increased to over 43 percent, three months after the vaccination drive started on March 21.

On June 12, Pulse Asia conducted a nationwide survey among 2,400 Filipinos aged 18 and above through face -to-face interviews.

According to their report, 36 percent said they will not pursue vaccination while 16 percent are still uncertain to get vaccine shots.

Meanwhile, the remaining five percent of the population are already inoculated — three and two percent are partially and fully immune, respectively.

So far, 13.1 million Filipinos have been given vaccines, in which 9,657,361 at least received their first dose while 3,464,916 are fully vaccinated, as of writing based on Reuters.

Safety concern about the vaccine is the principal reason why 36 percent

remained hesitant to get their jabs, with the Dengvaxia issue greatly influencing the Filipinos’ vaccine hesitancy.

As the government started the immunization program, they urged Filipinos to trust the vaccine experts and get their COVID jabs regardless of what brand is available.

“We are glad as vaccines are really the solution,” presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said in a regular news conference.

Vaccination is the only way for livelihoods to return, he added.

Moreover, achieving herd immunity in the country by the end of the year is unattainable if the supply of vaccines expected to arrive is insufficient, Department of Health (DOH) Sec. Francisco Duque III said in a news interview.

Approximately, 148 million doses are to be delivered in the country but due to the slow pace of vaccine rollout and insufficient supply of vaccines, the government’s goal may need adjustment, national vaccination program official in charge Carlito Galvez Jr stated.

Duterte, among press freedom threats—CEGP says

by Germar Erfe

F

reedom of speech and safeguarding campus publications.

That’s the two main reasons why College Editors Guild of the Philippines (CEGP) joined the SONA ng Bayan 2021, the Guild’s Dep. Sec. Gen. Regina Tolentino said.

“Dahil ang mga publication (members) ay estudyante rin, yung mga staff nila ay nakararanas din ng mga kahirapan regarding sa education. So, sinusuportahan natin na makabalik nang ligtas iyong mga estudyante sa mga eskwelahan, at the same time, makabalik iyong mga publication sa mga press offices nila para mas makapag-publish nang maayos.” Tolentino said.

In a rate from 1, the lowest, to 10, the highest, Tolentino expressed irked in giving the Duterte regime a score, claiming that the president is one of the ‘threat’ to press freedom.

“Kung may rating man si Duterte siguro negative. Bakit?... sobrang lantaran iyong pagsisinungaling niya.

Ang dami niyang pinapangako sa mamamayan pero hindi niya naman iyon tinutupad lalong-lalo na sa kasalukuyan.

Bakit zero? Bakit negative iyong rating natin? Dahil isa siya sa kaaway ng malayang pamamahayag.”

“Napakaraming pinasalang na mga journalist, mga nasa 19, at napakaraming pinasarang mga establishments, mga media outlets na pinasara, maraming inatake, maraming censorship, maraming mga campus publications ay

namatay dahil sa kasalukuyang pandemic na hindi pa rin tinutuganan nang (maayos) ng Duterte regime.” she added.

Despite the peaceful agenda of demonstrators, the Philippine National Police (PNP) barricaded themselves against the protesters at Commonwealth Ave., thus, forcing activists to conclude the SONA ng Bayan 2021 program in Batasang Pambansa.

“Bakit zero? Bakit negative iyong rating natin? Dahil isa siya sa kaaway ng malayang pamamahayag.”

by Rodolfo Dacleson II

A

Cavite State University Imus alumna is among the casualties reported after state forces held a massive crackdown against progressives in Southern Tagalog on March 7, dubbed as “Bloody Sunday”.

Ana Marie “Chai” LemitaEvangelista, Operational Management graduate in 2014, and her husband Ariel Evangelista were found dead in a funeral parlor in Nasugbu, Batangas.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) Region IV-A said that the two resisted during the operation, forcing them to shoot and kill the couple, who are staff members of fisherfolk advocacy group UMALPAS KA. On the other hand, the victims’ family allegedly claimed that the two suffered torture before being shot dead, as a steel tube was found in the crime scene.

“Sabi ng nag-embalsamo basag po ang puso at baga tapos mga yupi ang mga mukha.” Ariel’s mother Imelda Evangelista said with the autopsy report showed signs of torture. “Dapat po’y tigilan na ni Duterte ang kaniyang kagagawang ‘yan.”

Police charged Chai and Ariel with “illegal possession of firearms and explosives”, but Chai’s mother Inda Lemita claimed that the authorities presented the search warrant late.

“Bago po nila ibinigay sa amin ang search warrant, siguro po ay humigit kumulang sa ala-sais o alasiyete na ng umaga.” She narrated.

“Tapos na po, wala na po diyan ang mag-asawa.”

According to neighbors, policemen and soldiers nabbed the Evangelistas — residents of Brgy.

Calayo, a coastal village in Nasugbu — at around 4 am and brought them to a nearby house.

Their 10-year-old child hid under the bed to survive the horrific scene. “... Wala na po silang magawa.

Hinila na po siya (Chai) nung mga pulis na nag-aarrest sa kanya. Ang kanya naman pong asawa ay pinosasan ng mga sundalo, tapos doon na po sila dinala sa bahay ng kanyang lola.”

Lemita told Frontline Pilipinas in an exclusive interview.

“Nang matapos ang sigaw ng aking anak, putok na po ang narinig tapos tumahimik na.” She added.

As confirmed by National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon on March 9, the simultaneous raids in four of CALABARZON provinces came two days after President Rodrigo Duterte’s shoot-to-kill order against leftist rebels.

During her studies at CvSU-Imus, Chai became an Iskolar ng Bayan, CvSU Kilos Na member, Kabataan Partylist provincial coordinator, and a founding member of Anakbayan-CvSU and KPL-CvSU. Progressives Manny Asuncion (Bayan-Cavite), Makmak Bacasno, Abner and Edward Esto, and Michael Dasigao (SIKKAD-K3), Puroy and Randy dela Cruz (Dumagat tribe) also got killed during the state-sponsored raids.

Mga Pinagkunan ng Larawan: Getty Images NNARAYouthUPD Twitter

15 | Balita

Filipino fisherfolk outraged by Duterte’s baffling remark in WPS

by Rickie Cathleen Javier

M

ANILA, Philippines — Filipino fisherfolk have expressed their resentment with President Rodrigo Duterte’s stance on the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

Carlo Montehermozo, a fisherman from Infanta, Pangasinan, voiced his frustration as he remembered Duterte’s 2016 election campaign joke about the WPS dispute.

Montehermozo and other local fishermen are among the 16 million people who backed the former Davao City mayor’s presidential quest, which included a vow to ride a jet ski to contested waters in the WPS. During the 2016 presidential televised debates, he asked Duterte about his possible strategies to aid Filipino fishermen persecuted by Chinese vessels.

“Masama ang loob namin, siyempre ‘yun ang sinabi niya, ‘yan, aasahan namin na gagawin niya.” he told DZMM in an interview.

Duterte clarified that his highly controversial jet ski statement was a pure campaign joke and those who believed him were likewise labeled as dumb.

“Panahon ng kampanya ‘yan at saka ‘yung biro na ‘yun, they call it bravado, ‘yung bravado ko, pure campaign joke, at kung naniniwala kayo sa kabila, pati kay Carpio. I would say that you are really stupid.”

Duterte commented.

Nevertheless, it was a vow concerning something that should not be ridiculed for Montehermozo.

“Nagpangako siya ng ganun at hindi niya tinupad.

Hindi ako istupidong tao.” he stated.

Besides their dissatisfaction with Duterte’s failure to keep his pledge, Montehermozo noted that he seemed unsuitable to lead the country.

“Ay marami dito, sir. Kahit ‘yung hindi pa nakakapunta ng Scarborough, kahit ‘yung hindi pa nakarating, sinasabi sa akin, ‘Wala na, nag-uulyanin na ‘yung presidente natin, sabi nila.” he continued.

Montehermozo is one of the Filipino fishermen who has no one to whom they can vent their frustrations over the Chinese maritime militia.

Contradicting statements, actions Regardless of the attempts of some diplomatic and defense personnel to advocate Filipino rights in their waters, Duterte’s actions and remarks seem to pacify China.

“Whatever differences we have with China, it will not be an obstacle to the overall positive trajectory of our bilateral friendly relations and our deepening cooperation in the pandemic response, including vaccine cooperation, and in the post-pandemic economic recovery,” Duterte said in a statement.

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Masama ang loob namin, siyempre ‘yun ang sinabi niya, ‘yan, aasahan namin na gagawin niya.”

Over the last decade, CCG vessels have become a common sight at Scarborough Shoal and other traditional fishing grounds within the Philippines’ EEZ. Larry Hugo, a 42-year-old Filipino fisherman, attempted to reach one of the sandbars at Pag-asa Island on January 25 but was astonished when a CCG ship blocked his way, preventing him from getting any closer.

“Akala ko po dadaan lang ang barko. Bigla pong humarang sa may dadaanan ko. Saka may paparating pa na lima hanggang anim na barko, lahat tumatakbo rin papunta sa lugar na ‘yon.” he told CNN Philippines in an online interview.

Almost the same case happened with Federico Josol, a Masinloc fisherman, who recalled seeing a

“

The Filipino fishers are tired of Mr. Duterte compromising our sovereignty in the name of foreign loans and now, vaccines.”

Chinese helicopter for the first time above his fishing boat in 2013.

“There were two helicopters and four Chinese coastguards, as well as a large brown ship that appeared to be employed for warfare, a recorded message from the helicopter continued saying, ‘all Filipinos leave!’ So we did.” He narrated.

Josol stopped fishing at Scarborough for a few years because he was afraid of being captured or even shot by a Chinese maritime militia. Rather, he opted to fish in nearby waters, where the fish stocks were already low and his earnings were a small proportion of what he might earn at sea.

“They have felt bullied, and many fishermen have reservations about going back. They sold their boats because they felt so hopeless every time there was a stand-off at Scarborough. They felt like thieves fishing in their own area.” said Leonardo Cuaresma, chairman of Federated Association of Fisherfolk in Zambales province.

Due to the Duterte administration’s lack of tangible and decisive actions, a group of fishermen submitted three petitions seeking the United Nations to intervene in the WPS issue.

“The Filipino fishers are tired of Mr. Duterte compromising our sovereignty in the name of foreign loans and now, vaccines.” Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (PAMALAKAYA) national chairperson Fernando Hicap said.

16 | Balita

by Karina Tesaluna

L

ast year, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) released the recommendations of the public utility vehicle modernization (PUVMP) program or modernization program of jeepneys in the Philippines.

Such national effort aims to put toxic vehicular pollution in the country to a screeching halt by phasing out units of aging generators. They believe that despite the Philippines’ relatively small contribution to the aggravating climate change, the nation will bear the brunt of increasingly severe natural disasters without mitigating action.

However, nearly a year after the quarantine began in the Philippines, most jeepney drivers have yet to recover from its adverse effects. Hunger and poverty will most likely loom if the said-to-be “king of the road” gets erased in the scene.

Mga Pinagkunan ng Larawan: Rappler Taiwan News When in Manila

Despite the good intentions of the government to raise the level of our country’s public transport system, it remains a source of headache for jeepney drivers who have no other source of money.

Under the arrangement, two drivers will be allowed to take turns operating one unit for 18 hours a day, earning them a performance-based subsidy of up to 1,000 pesos.

An estimated 1,520 drivers applied for the program on the first day of general registration on November 25, 2020. National Confederation of Transport Workers Union (NCTU) Pres. Cruz said that they are not against the government’s good intentions, but it would have been better to reconsider the steps in this regard.

“It’s not the program we’re against; it’s the process of how we’ll get there,” Cruz stated.

It was unrealistic to expect that the inevitably meager bank loans would be enough for jeepney drivers

to be able to pay for the new units, he went on to say.

The proposed jeepney upgrading scheme places the responsibility of payment squarely on their shoulders — a problem that COVID-19 made even worse.

“

It’s not the program we’re against; it’s the process of how we’ll get there.”

As quarantine restrictions have eased up across the country, some drivers resumed their operations. They comply with government-mandated coronavirus prevention guidelines, such as installing plastic covers serving as dividers to maintain social distancing inside the vehicles.

However, almost 700 routes across the country have not been allowed to return. Cruz added that there’s more to jeepney modernization than just replacing older jeepney models.

Over two years, efforts must be made to transform the system, including establishing designated jeepney stops and eliminating the boundary scheme that puts pressure on the drivers to make as many trips as possible.

Throughout the decades, the iconic jeepney has provided Filipino commuters with an affordable transportation option, and drivers with a way to put food on the table. Without a just transition, accelerating the modernization program will leave a trail of shattered lives in its wake.

17 | Balita

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Groups call for justice, answers during ST-SORA

by Germar Erfe

D

ILIMAN, Quezon City — CALABARZON multisectoral groups flocked the University of the Philippines Diliman to lobby the ‘region’s score’ during the Southern Tagalog State of the Region Address (ST-SORA) simultaneous to President Rodrigo Duterte’s final State of the Nation Adress (SONA) last July 26, 2021.

Carrying the “Never Forget, Bloody Sunday Massacre” arch banner, progressives from Region IV-A amplified the regional situation followed by SONA ng Bayan 2021.

Around 7:30 am, despite the occasional rain showers brought by Typhoon Fabian, ST launched various condemnations highlighted by the ‘Bapor ng Kainutilan’ mural after the mass demonstration along University Avenue led by Defend Southern Tagalog spokesperson Charmane Jay Maranan.

“Siyam na buhay ang kinitil sa isang araw, anim naman ang sinampahan ng gawa-gawang kaso noong Marso a-siyete ng kasalukuyang taon. At hindi pa rito natapos. Tatlong linggo matapos ang Bloody Sunday massacre, pinatay naman ang lider-manggagawa at unyonistang si Dandy Miguel.” Maranan’s narration of the massive crackdown.

Mass leaders then smashed the Bapor ng Kainutilan as a call to hold the Duterte administration accountable after a series of negligence and anti-union bloodbaths in CALABARZON. Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN) Laguna spokesperson Justin Umali followed Maranan’s lead by recounting the statecontrolled displacement activities near Laguna Lake that derailed houses of urban poor communities and local fisherfolk.

Umali also pointed to the experiences of Hacienda Yulo farmers, who are enduring several repelling threats and land tenure desistances at present.

Delegates from BAYAN Batangas held peasant art visuals while voicing the province’s worsening environmental situation brought by the mushrooming of coal-mining plants and the overstaying of affected residents after the Taal volcanic tremors.

“Naghihirap ang masang Batangueño, sino ho ang nakikinabang sa yaman na ito? Ito po ay bakas na bakas sa unang distrito ng aming probinsya kung saan mayroon tayong tinatawag na coal power plant. Araw-araw, umiitim ang kalangitan sa Calaca. Araw-araw lason ang ipinalalanghap ng power plant na ito sa mga kababayan nating Batangueño.” stressed by a certain BAYAN Batangas spokesperson.

“Pamilyar naman ho tayo sa kalagayan ng bulkang Taal. Noong nakaraang taon po ito ay sumabog at hanggang ngayon ang mga mamamayang apektado ng pagsabog na ito ay nakatira pa rin sa mga plastic na tent. Mahigit isang taon na po, ngunit ano ang sagot ng estado rito?” the spox bluntly questioned the administration’s response regarding the Taal explosion.

BAYAN-ST spokesperson Casey Anne Cruz delivered a speech mentioning Duterte, Department of National Defense Sec. Delfin Lorenzana, former PLT. Gen. Antonio Parlade Jr., Department of Interior and Local Governance Sec. Eduardo Ano, and National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon to be liable for anti-citizen crimes in the conclusion of the ST-SORA program.

AGAINST TYRANNY. Southern Tagalog progressive groups assembled in the UP Diliman grounds to protest against the Duterte administration. (Kuha ni Germar Erfe)

ST groups amplify calls vs foreign intrusion, natl. issues under DU30 within the proximity.

The authority claimed that the protest was illegal since it outhern Tagalog’s multisectoral formations didn’t have a rally permit prior to the conduct of filled the streets of Kawit and Dasmarinas mobilization, and the progressives breached COVID-19 City for a regional chapter mobilization to safety protocols. lobby their sentiments on the country’s Negotiators from progressive formations pleaded with “faux” freedom climate last Independence Day 2021, the Kawit PNP to hold a 10-minute leeway extension to carry June 12. at least the finalization of the program, however, the police Anakbayan Southern Tagalog refused the request. spokesperson Kobi Tolentino led the The Flare tried to interview a certain body Sa kasalukuyan, caravan protest in Kawit at exactly 9:20 from Kawit PNP the second time but they kailangan am as the groups condemned the foreign still refused. na magkaisa ang mga -maneuvered policies hinged with the A cultural presentation signaled the start of mamamayan. Patuloy the rally program at Dasmarinas City on Duterte administration.

Kabataan Partylist (KPL) called for na tumindig para sa the afternoon of the same day, as a an academic safe space in relationship kalayaan, karapatan at continuation of the caravan protest held by with the “Ligtas na Balik-Eskwela” ST progressives. hustisya ng lahat.” campaign and prioritization of academic State-sponsored red-tagging, culture of members on COVID-19 vaccination programs. impunity against staunch critics, COVID-19 crisis response, KPL also highlighted the call for approval of 10,000 the country’s sovereignty, are among the pressing issues student aid penned by Makabayan bloc representatives. reverberated by League of Filipino Students (LFS) CvSU and Before the program ended, media groups interviewed other ST progressives present in the mobilization.

Defend Southern Tagalog spox Charmane Maranan on Progressives had an octopus-like US-China-Duterte progressives’ “faux” Philippine independence. effigy by their side, symbolizing the combined intervention “Pagkatapos po ng ika-isangdaan at dalawampu’t tatlong and involvement of the two world economic giants in the taon na pagkakadeklara ng ating kalayaan, ay nananatiling local policies implemented by the current administration, hindi totoo ang ating tinatamasa. Nakikita natin ang ating thus, dragging the country to multiple debt trap.

Pangulo [Rodrigo Duterte], wala man lang will para Subsequently, the demonstrators smashed the effigy. ipaglaban ang ating soberanya laban sa Tsina sa West “Sa kasalukuyan, kailangan na magkaisa ang mga Philippine Sea.” Maranan explained before the Kawit police mamamayan. Patuloy na tumindig para sa kalayaan, cut off the conversation as the latter want to ‘clear’ the area. karapatan at hustisya ng lahat.” Maranan amplified before The Kawit mobilization ended at 9:38 am. the adjournment of the demonstration.

While the rally had not intensified the call yet, elements The Dasmarinas City mobilization illustrated good from Kawit Philippine National Police (PNP) tried to curtail cooperation between progressives and authorities—resulting and disperse ST progressives with a two-minute siren wailed in less coercion between the two forces.

by Germar Erfe

S

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18-19 | Editoryal

Guhit ni Rae Niño Pelagia

Punong Patnugutan Rodolfo Dacleson II Punong Patnugot Klaeford Crispin Ikalawang Patnugot (Internal)

Charmaine Mae Esguerra Ikalawang Patnugot (External)

Gabriel Louiz Paredes Patnugot ng Balita Maria Teresa Leviste Patnugot ng Lathalian

Angela Advincula Tagapamahala ng Negosyo at Sirkulasyon

The Flare

Ang Opisyal na Pahayagan ng mga Mag-aaral ng Cavite State University - Imus Campus

Jhamelle Sion Patnugot ng Produksyon El Rex Africa Patnugot ng Balitang Pampalakasan

Carl Andrei Alquero Patnugot ng Panitikan MANUNULAT Germar Erfe April Ann Florano Jaylla Perez Elaine Balbuena Teresa May Sarzata Karina Tesaluna Marie Claire Pagasartonga Ayella Cremat Danielle Nicolle Tolentino Aileen Joeimee Castillo Jessa Laguisma Rickie Cathleen Javier Julienne Eunice Irinco

Ruth Raima Servida Tagapamahalang Patnugot

Howard Christian Marquez Patnugot ng Litrato Rafaela Janna Babaran Patnugot ng Kartuns at Komiks

Mga Kawani Taong Pang-Akademiko 2020-2021 LITRATISTA Julie Ann Anire Andrea Trina Boqueo Nastassja Ariele Braceros Wayne Gerodias Byron Peter Nocon

DEBUHISTA Van Ellis Mercado Rae Niño Pelagia Aldrian Barias Leslie Ann Libo-on Paul John Mendez TAGAAYOS NG PAHINA Nicole Ann Teotico Nina Gabrielle Velunta Jessabell Encarnacion Keziah Jemimah Carreon

Janel Evan Akim SPU Adviser Luningning Valdez SPU Coordinator Armand Aton SOSCA Coordinator Bernard Pangilinan OSAS Head Dr. Marlon A. Mojica Campus Administrator

#LigtasNaBalikEskwela

H

indi lang kalusugan at ekonomiya ang dapat bigyang-pansin ng pamahalaan sa kasalukuyan. Humaharap din sa malaking krisis ang sektor ng edukasyon sa bansa. Sa implementasyon ng distance learning, nakapagpatuloy ang mga mag-aaral mula elementarya hanggang kolehiyo na matuto sa kanilang mga tahanan. Gayunpaman, hindi ito maituturing na tagumpay, gaya ng iginiit ng Department of Education (DepEd), sapagkat lantad pa rin ang mga suliraning nagpapahirap sa kabataang Pilipino, magulang at mga guro hanggang ngayon.

Hindi rin maaaring ipagkibit-balikat ang pahayag ni Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Chairperson Prospero De Vera ukol sa pagpapalawig ng flexible learning sa taong panuruan 2021-2022 at susunod pa sa mga tersaryang institusyon. Masasabi bang sayang ang nasimulan ng ahensiya't mga unibersidad kung marhinalisasyon lamang ang naidudulot nito sa mga Iskolar ng Bayan?

Lalo lamang nawalan ng puwang sa bagong moda ng edukasyon ang mahihirap na mag-aaral. Nawalan silang lalo ng kakayahang makasabay sa mabilis na pagbabago ng panahon dahil pasanin ang pakikibagay sa remote learning ng walang gadget na ginagamit at maayos na Internet connection.

Habang patuloy na iginigiit ng mga kagawarang namamahala sa edukasyon ang blended learning bilang solusyon, nagiging malabo ang landas tungo sa magandang kinabukasan. Ayon sa National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), papalo sa halos 11 trilyong piso ang mawawalang pondo ng bansa sa susunod na 40 taon bunsod ng pagsasara ng mga paaralan, pagpapatupad ng hindi epektibong online at module-based learning at pangmatagalang epekto ng pandemya.

Bukod pa rito, napag-alaman sa online sarbey na isinagawa Safe, Equitable, Quality and Relevant Education (SEQuRE) noong Hunyo 25Hulyo 12, 2020, sa 1,299 mag-aaral mula Baitang 4-12, na kaunti lamang

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Hindi imposibleng makapukawpansin ang nagkakaisang tinig ng mga kabataang hangad ay dekalidad, libre, siyentipiko, makamasa at makabansang edukasyon.” ang natutuhan ng mga mag-aaral sa modular (86.7), online (66) o blended (74) learning. Isa sa dalawang mga estudyante ang nahuhuli sa pagdalo sa klase o pagpasa ng modyul at iba pang requirement, pagbabahagi ng nasa 52 porsyento mga guro mula sa mga pampublikong paaralan.

Sa kabuuang 1,278 gurong sinarbey, 85.2 porsyento ang naniniwalang bumigat ang kanilang trabaho magmula nang ipinag-utos ang makabagong sistema ng edukasyon. Gayunpaman, halos 48 porsyento ng mga titser ang nagsabing hindi sila nakatanggap ng tulong pinansiyal para matustusan ang kanilang mga gastusin sa pagtuturo.

Tandaang karapatan natin ang edukasyon kaya't marapat tayong makibaka para rito. Kalampagin ang dapat kalampagin. Huwag nating hayaang maging ignorante ang susunod na salinlahi dahil sa kakulangan ng kaalaman at kamalayan sa iba't ibang disiplina at samot-saring isyung panlipunan.

Kaya't ating isigaw kasama ang taumbayan, "#LigtasNaBalikEskwela."

Sama-sama nating ipanawagan ang muling pagbubukas ng mga paaralan.

Higit sa ngalan ng kampanyang, nais din nitong itaguyod ang panunumbalik sa normal na pamumuhay ng sambayanan.

Isang aksiyong hindi lamang nakatuon sa pagbabakuna kundi pagpapaigting din ng contact tracing, mass testing at iba pang komprehensibong plano upang mapigilan ang pagkalat ng COVID-19.

Kinakailangang magkaisa ang bawat lider-estudyante ng mga organisasyon at publikasyon na manguna sa pagboses sa hinaing ng kanilang mga kamag-aral at kaguruan. Hindi imposibleng makapukaw-pansin ang nagkakaisang tinig ng mga kabataang hangad ay dekalidad, libre, siyentipiko, makamasa at makabansang edukasyon. Kaya’t tayo’y tumindig at sumulong para sa pagkatutong mapagpalaya at mapagbago. Ligtas na balik-eskwela, ating kolektibong ipaglaban!

Vision

The Premier University in historic Cavite recognized for excellence in the development of globally competitive and morally upright individuals.

Mission

Cavite State University shall provide excellent, equitable, and relevant educational opportunities in the arts, sciences and technology through quality instruction and responsive research and development activities.

It shall produce professional, skilled and morally upright individuals for global competitiveness.

20-21 | Opinyon

THE OBSERVER

THE WATCHDOG

Rodolfo Dacleson II Editor-in-Chief rodolfo.daclesonii@cvsu.edu.ph

Klaeford Crispin Associate Editor-in-Chief (Internal) klaeford.crispin@cvsu.edu.ph

Vox populi, vox dei Softening the blow

M

ore than a year has passed and the current administration is yet to come up with a concrete plan to solve the COVID-19 problem of the Philippines. With incompetence and abuse of power further lingering despite these trying times, Filipinos must continuously escalate the calls for good governance and amplify the voice of the masses. As citizens, it is our constitutional responsibility to lobby for the struggles of the people.

Silence in front of looming human rights violations and unscientific approaches in dealing with the pandemic will not bring us in any better position. In reality, it allows injustices to prevail and worsens the already worst situation. Refusing to seek and tell the truth censors progress and reinforces the status quo.

Nonetheless, freedom of expression matters nowadays. This is the perfect time to speak and write for the good and right of our fellow countrymen.

Lobbying grievances, sharing opinions, and providing novel perspectives out of the conventional school of thoughts should be seen as a normal part of how democracy works.

Viewing activism as a form of terrorism is a blatant attack against our right to express. Besides, stifling the press with their outright condemnation, and vilifying dissents due to poor governance are obvious acts of authoritarianism. Concentration of power has no room in democracy as the political system itself encourages healthy debates and discourses.

Scrutinizing the government’s failure to handle the present national health emergency is not a crime and will never become one. Dissents came into existence to challenge the system’s vulnerabilities. Grounded on collective experiences and principles, it seeks to bring change in the rotten and biased regulations.

Moreover, voicing out about the reality of increasing marginalization, oppression, and inequalities in the middle of a global crisis kindles the spirit of democracy. We should be active agents who progressively ask for an immediate response from the authority to act accordingly and morally. In these ways, we extend our deepest compassion for the muted poor and minorities, as we represent them.

Vox populi, vox dei — the voice of the people is the voice of God. Indeed, for the government to succeed in

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Success isn’t far behind from being achieved if the administration and citizens will work together. Both factions are mutually accountable for performing their respective responsibilities. eradicating the viral disease, it must listen to the people. It should lend its ears to criticisms to pave a way for the formulation of alternative plans built on agreed propositions to fill the gaps.

Success isn’t far behind from being achieved if the administration and citizens will work together. Both factions are mutually accountable for performing their respective responsibilities.

During this turmoil, your opinion is valid as expressing what is right and good is a guaranteed human right.

You shouldn’t be afraid of telling the truth nor try altering or distorting it to favor the dominant powers. You must hone it in its utmost capacity to empower democracy and sympathize with our fellow Filipinos.

Guhit ni Leslie Libo-on

O

ne of the national concerns we continue to face as a nation amid the pandemic is the battle of defending and preserving our sovereign rights from China’s encroachment. Since the beginning, the Chinese government had deviated from its diplomatic commitment to resolve tensions in the West Philippine Sea and perpetuate their infuriating actions on our marine life.

Considered as a superpower in the Asian region, China has become the 21 st century equivalent of a colonizer that strives to intrude in our territories. And while the whole world was busy responding to the pandemic that ironically started from them, they were like thieves in the night, Being grateful exchanging their vaccines while extracting our marine resources. to vaccine China is trying to soften the blow of its tenacious incursion into our marine donations is resources by sending us vaccines and a lowacceptable but cost vaccine procurement for the government’s vaccination rollout. This forsaking our tactic seems to mitigate the negative effects territorial rights in of their encroachment in the Philippine seas.

With the present situation, if we protest WPS is a different their incursion in these disputed areas, it would appear we’re unappreciative because issue. Undermining China in the first place gave us vaccines, a the national interest debt we owe to them. We should not allow of the Filipino people our country to be placed in this critical China will no doubt try to reassure means neglecting the situation. us with soothing words. But it is the aggression and encroachment in the West laws legally Philippine Sea (WPS) that tells us a proclaiming our different story.

Over and over again, the Philippine territorial government has a pivotal constitutional duty rights. to persistently assert our country’s rights, honor and dignity in the WPS. Since then, there is a unified urge for the Duterte administration to protest when China has such activity as protection of our territorial claim legally supported in the 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague.

But what we are seeing today generates a serious question, are they with us in protecting our territorial rights?

In my opinion, this administration must allow their mind to be awakened to China’s lunacy and not be blinded with good acts in the form of vaccine donations. Our unifying voice needs to denounce both China and this administration for undermining the national interest of the Filipino people and the law of the sea. The satellite images of marine life devastation in the West Philippine Sea is concrete evidence that the Philippine government must continue to uphold our rights and file inviolable diplomatic protests at any cost.

Being grateful to vaccine donations is acceptable but forsaking our territorial rights in WPS is a different issue.

Undermining the national interest of the Filipino people means neglecting the laws legally proclaiming our territorial rights.

At this modern-day battle, Filipinos must stand up and fight to free the Philippines from aggravating foreign invasion. The law and history are on the Filipino’s side. For over three decades, we persistently fight for our rights to defend WPS, this battle is indeed an inter-generational endeavor that requires our courage and greater conviction to our legal rights. It is a duty we owe to ourselves and the future generations of Filipinos.

“

The Flare theflarecvsuimus

theflarecvsuimus.wordpress.com

sputheflare2012

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They are the mirrors who bend the light to give a clearer vision of what is going on in society. Their pens, paintbrushes, and other mediums filled with creativity create and depict a story of survival and hope.”

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Writers are the storytellers of the world. If literature must mirror life, and writers can only write about life, then it goes without saying that all that life has to offer — the brightness of day and our darkest nights must reverberate in all our writings.” — Jose Salud Everyone must consider the power of artists, especially in this time when distortion of truth is put on display that leaves the public in disarray. They tell different easy to digest angles, thoughts, and ideas to enlighten the confused and tricked masses. If there’s a battle artists face, that’s the battle of expression.

As our country faces this grieving moment of our history, Filipinos must remember how powerful writers and artists can be in this time of uncertainty and deceitfulness. They are the mirrors who bend the light to give a clearer vision of what is going on in society.

Their pens, paintbrushes, and other mediums filled with creativity create and depict a story of survival and hope.

Besides, they narrate the tales of evil and goodness in the surroundings that could enlighten and open the eyes of the masses towards the solutions and problems that they should do.

The writings and artworks echo the reality of life. No one can tell them what they should write or draw. It is their purpose to discern and distinguish the reality that people are living on and continue to do so until their last breath.

They immortalize events and write them in history as a remembrance and commemoration of everyone’s efforts.

Thus, that’s the reason why they should be feared and honored. Without artistry, the world may see no meanings and depictions of life and reality in every society. One must never forget that civilizations are illustrated by art. Wars, pandemics, political struggles, societal

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ORACLE’S FORESIGHT Carl Andrei Alquero Literary Editor carlandrei.alquero@cvsu.edu.ph

The artist’s role discrimination, and varying issues that lead us in these moments are either written, painted, or sculpted by the artists’ powerful hands.

There is no doubt that they can awaken those who are asleep, ignite those who need to rise and call people to appeal for the masses. Indeed, artists are here to help society as they speak to those who can’t hear the appropriate actions that should be done and suggest solutions to the prevailing problems, especially what things can be changed in this fraudulent social order.

Until today, artists are still sitting on their respective desks to create reflections and insights, and turn

frustrations into art to tell you, who is reading this article that it is true that we are experiencing real catastrophic events and we must take action and respond in these trying times to help everyone and be empathetic in these situations.

To end this piece, let me leave this quote for you: “You are not alone. A word is not enough to tell a story. We need paragraphs to depict it and chapters to see its angles and a book to show it!

To be seen by everyone there is a writer who tells a story in these sheets of paper and creates a greater change into this world.”

“All great art and literature is propaganda.” — George Bernand Shaw

THE SEEKING EYE El Rex Africa Sports Editor elrex.africa@cvsu.edu.ph

Neutrality is a choice

I

n the present situation, everyone has their voice to speak, their own opinion to spit, and their own belief to stand. After all, we are not sailing in the same seas. Nowadays, different information arises from the internet yet are we supposed to believe that all? Or are we supposed to criticize that all? Are we that entitled to do so? Again, we are not sailing in the same seas.

Filipinos deal with different struggles nowadays, thus, making it tough for them to meddle with everything regarding the prevailing plight of the society just to be called “patriotic”.

In these trying times, focusing ourselves on lifting our family to at least mitigate the effects of rampant injustices in the country won’t make us “enablers”. Striving hard for our own sake doesn’t equate to allowing inequalities. Selfish may it sound but to contribute to the country’s development also includes charity to oneself’s field of expertise. It’s not always about prying with the government but striving hard to help in our way.

Criticizing the administration without hating and praising it sans favoring is possible. Tagging someone as DDS, Dilawan, or loyalists for giving their opinion is a derogatory or insulting remark. Amid its normalcy, we need to be careful in voicing our sentiments especially when we are not asked to do so.

Another thing to be taken is we are living in a democratic society. We can freely choose without being judged as freedom of expression is safeguarded by our Constitution. Yet, people who brag arrogance as they feel being attacked by a social media post should re-examine themselves. Besides, if you think that you are critical enough to do such, reflect again.

Guhit ni Rae Niño Pelagia “Do not feel absolutely certain of anything”. This was the first of the 10 commandments stated by Bertrand Russell in his book “10 Commandments of Critical Thinking”. The book may help us understand that we are not supposed to be certain about anything every time.

Over the past few years, we are facing hardships, and avoiding spreading negativity is a big help. We need

something that will light up our minds as we are not certain about everything.

To sum it up, I am reminding you that it is fine to be neutral, no judgment!

Neutrality is our choice and no one can degrade us for being like that. Let us be the bridge to bring positivity in a world with widespread negativity. Despite our differences in race, belief, and culture, respect and camaraderie will reunite us all.

22-23 | Pulsong CvSUeño The Flare asked Cavite State University - Imus Campus students regarding their opinions and sentiments about the effectiveness of flexible learning. Here are some of their responses to the two following questions. In compliance with the Data Privacy Act of 2012, we will not disclose names and other confidential information to ensure the anonymity of respondents.

P

hilippines as a whole? Definitely NO! Many students especially in far-flung areas share their scenes of lamentation on the decade long problem of internet connection. In addition, the national government don't recognize the fact that the education department lacks funds to properly implement the new mode of learning. Our teachers who are considered unsung heroes of this pandemic, they have sacrificed even their lives. That's a fact that the government must look into and properly address.

N

ot yet, all students cannot afford gadgets used in online schooling same for the data/load.

N

o, definitely not. Students have different learning curves and it is hard for most of the students to keep up with the lessons. In addition, it is hard to study if you do not have your personal space at home. Idagdag pa na hindi lahat ay may stable internet connection.

N

O, because most of the students doesn't have the means and the resources needed for flexible learning such as stable internet, gadgets, peaceful learning environment etc. especially in our university not all students here are privileged enough to have the said resources needed for flexible learning.

W

ith our current situation, I think we are not yet ready for this kind of learning. Students will find it hard to cope up with lessons.

Do you think the Philippines is ready for flexible learning? Why or why not?”

S

omehow it applies only to some particular schools/ universities but Philippines as a whole is not ready for flexible learning. The problem with connection, stuttered voice, loud noises during meetings and other problems occur while in online class consumes much patience and time. It does not reflect "learning" but rather "completion" prior to subjects.

Even the actual application of it must be harder for us students.

Modules were like a thousand of words that is hard to comprehend on your own. Anyone can agree that flexible learning is not effective though it's a good choice.

“

Should CvSU continue implementing flexible learning? Why or why not?”

N

o. If malls could be opened for public why not the schools? It will be for the benefit of the country if the future generation will have a proper treatment when it comes to learning.

G

iven the continuous growth of the COVID-19 cases and its new variants, I believe face-to-face learning is hard to implement. But in my opinion, flexible learning will be effective for all, if the system and people implementing it will be inclusive and empathize to those who are having a hard time.”

N

o, because some of the students are not ready for this kind of learning. Not all students have the ability to study on their own. Some of us, students, are still need guidance from professors.”

Kuha ni Charmaine Mae Esguerra

W

e simply don't have a choice...

CvSU and other universities will continue resorting into flexible learning until the pandemic is finally resolved. As student, I understand both sides and we must respect each other.

Both parties don't have a choice, both parties are affected and both parties are trying their best. Sincerely, all we have to do is to hope, hope that this adversity will come to an end soon.

M

aybe, if they can actually balance the workload they had given to students and if they can manage to sustain some students who are totally lacking in resources and giving them so much time to cope up., why not?

24 | Lathalain

A beacon of hope: COVID-19 survivors’ triumph over distress Guhit nina Van Ellis Mercado and Aldrian Barias

by Rickie Cathleen Javier

U

ntold stories of hurdles, ghost towns, and establishments, masked faces and subtle emotions. Everything fell apart in the blink of an eye. Many people endured nightmares, became prisoners of their homes, and some lost lives. We have to leave our secure refuge.

Unraveling the battle of an OFW conqueror Despite living thousands of miles away from her homeland, Marilyn Gonzales, a 48-year-old Filipina make-up promoter in Bahrain, waged her covert struggle in Salmaniya Hospital for a month. Her condition deteriorated day by day to the point that she struggled to breathe, which horrified her.

“Kung ilalarawan ko ang karanasan ko sa COVID? [It is] like a dry plant.

Feeling ko noon, mamamatay na talaga ako kasi ang hirap. Bawat galaw ng katawan ko, hindi ako makahinga. ‘Yung pakiramdam na kahit anong gawin mo parang wala kang mapagkunan ng hangin para huminga.” Gonzales said in an interview via Messenger.

“Ang pinanghawakan ko ng oras na

iyon ay ang Panginoon at ang limang mga anak ko at mga apo na naging kalakasan ko. Pati ang mga kaibigan ko rito sa Bahrain na full support na tumulong at nag-alala.” she added.

Marilyn clung to the support of her friends and family at this low point in her life, shoring up her faith. Regardless of the difficulties, she managed to remain vigilant and tried to see things in a positive light.

Life in peril Trips Caincay, known as Tatay Trips, a 52-year-old businessman, was in a similar state as Marilyn. He battled his nightmare for approximately a month in CCMC, where shortness of breath and chest pain aggravated his condition.

“Noong nalaman ko, hirap lang akong huminga, sobrang sakit sa dibdib, at iyong anak kong nag-aalaga sa akin, sinabihan na pala ng doktor na mawawala na pala ako. Ganoon kalubha.” Caincay recalled.

During his darkest hours, he clung to his family. Did his best to be fearless in the face of adversity.

The horror of an unseen foe

“Therefore, sharing our stories is a sign of hope. Expressing our journey is a sign of sunrise. May we all choose to continue giving a ray of hope to someone who is losing their grasp on themselves.”

COVID-19 has a variety of impacts on individuals. The majority of infected people experienced mild to moderate symptoms and recovered without any need for hospitalization. However, some, like Tatay Trips and Marilyn do need medical help. Remember that when an infected person coughs, sneezes, speaks, or breathes, the virus spreads in microscopic liquid particles from their mouth or nose. If you are near someone who has COVID-19, you can be infected by breathing in the virus, or by touching a contaminated surface and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. The virus

rapidly transmits indoors and in congested areas.

Tatay Trips and Marilyn valiantly shared their stories on social media and anticipated that they will be able to show people that no matter how heavy situations are, there is always a beacon of hope. They stressed the need of loving ourselves, enabling our bodies to rest, and prioritizing our health, as well as the importance of sticking to and taking safety protocols seriously. Both even emphasized the importance of having solid interpersonal ties since you would come to realize that they will play a critical role in your darkest moments.

Missing the past, accepting the new As it has been a long time, nothing seems to have healed. We can’t see the smile on people’s faces when passing on the street every day, we can’t even touch and make our presence known to others.

Therefore, sharing our stories is a sign of hope. Expressing our journey is a sign of sunrise. May we all choose to continue giving a ray of hope to someone who is losing their grasp on themselves. May we have the guts to tell our countrymen that we shall be able to regain our freedom, and happiness one day.

25 | Lathalain

The Flare theflarecvsuimus

theflarecvsuimus.wordpress.com

sputheflare2012

sputheflare.cvsuimus@gmail.com

2020: A year that was

by Elaine Balbuena and Jaylla Perez

D

isaster, death, and illness characterized the first half of the decade’s final year. Many Filipinos experienced tears, despair, and confusion during this time of seemingly orchestrated sequential events. It may be instructive to reflect on some of the highlights of 2020.

Taal Volcano eruption

On January 12, a series of weak eruptions occurred within the Taal Volcano. Over a month later, the entire Region IV-A (CALABARZON) got hit by a disaster.

Ash from the volcano affected nearly half a million inhabitants. Its explosion caused significant disruption not only to the affected population but also to various industries, most notably agriculture and infrastructure, with an estimated cost of over 3.4 billion pesos in Southern Tagalog.

COVID-19 crisis On January 12, the first SARS-CoV-2 patients shook the world. The Department of Health (DOH) confirmed on March 6 the first two Filipinos who tested positive for SARS-COV-2, also known as the novel coronavirus (nCOV). At that time, the health department detected the first local transmission of the virus. The government announced the death of the first Filipino nCOV patient on March 11.

The National Capital Region (NCR), including Manila, is placed under (relatively relaxed) lockdown.

By June 21, the COVID-19 cases in the country surpassed 30,000.

Promotion of Cardinal Tagle On May 1, former Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Tagle was promoted as a “cardinal-bishop,” thus, becoming Vatican’s third or even second most important individual after Pope Francis. According to Pontificio Collegio Filippino rector Fr. Gregory Gaston, Tagle will stay in Rome. Besides, his new title placed him among the elite community of only 11 Latin rites cardinalbishops the Pope will consult at any time individually or as a group.

ABS-CBN franchise expires

Philippine lawmakers officially shut down the Kapamilya Network — the country’s largest broadcast network on May 4 — that critics said was a big blow to press freedom under Pres. Rodrigo Duterte administration. After 13 hearings, the majority of the House of Representatives voted to reject ABS-CBN’s request to renew its broadcast franchise. Hence, forcing the network to go off air and lay off thousands of their employees last May 2020.

Larawan mula AFP

Signing of GMRC On June 26, Pres. Duterte signed Republic Act 1147 or the Good Manners and Right Conduct (GMRC) Act into law to create a comprehensive GMRC and Values Education program in the Department of Education’s K12 curriculum. The new legislation will replace the existing Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao (ESP) curriculum, which is part of regular basic education. As a result, social studies and other similar topics in the K-12 program replaced ESP. Flexible learning DepEd and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) agreed to continue the classes through flexible learning. Based on DepEd’s data, there are a total of 26.6 million students enrolled for the school year 20202021. Meanwhile, only 1.1 million students didn’t enroll in the said school year. Some academic institutions offering online courses resumed their classes.

It’s a paradigm shift for everyone.

Some students struggled with this mode of learning due to poor connection and tons of activities.

Others cannot sustain work -life balance yet still manage to adapt and choose to move forward.

“

The year two millennia and two decades made us capable enough to stand firm and fight for our lives. The twelve months that made us cry and laugh are memories that serve as evidence of how strong we are to overcome hurdles.”

In the coronation event held at the Baguio Country Club on October 25, Ilongga beauty Rabiya Mateo became the first-ever Miss Universe Philippines under new management, beating out over 40 other contestants.

She won the flamboyant Filipina crown in an unusual time as the country still deals with the pandemic, restricting any forms of mass gatherings.

Filipinos are creative enough to face these frightening challenges and surpass whatever comes in their way. The year two millennia and two decades made us capable enough to stand firm and fight for our lives. The twelve months that made us cry and laugh are memories that serve as evidence of how strong we are to overcome hurdles.

Miss Universe Philippines 2020

Protests against Anti-Terror Law During Independence Day, Congress submitted the “Anti-Terror Bill” that allows suspects to be detained without charge for 24 hours while empowering the government anti-terrorism council to identify suspects or organizations as suspected terrorists, subjecting them to arrests and surveillance. Despite police warnings of arrest for breaching coronavirus prohibitions on large public gatherings, hundreds of demonstrators still protested in the capital of the country against the passing of the new anti-terror law that they fear could be used to suppress dissent.

Larawan mula Reuters

26-27 | Lathalain

#ThrowbackThursday: CvSU at Acads Year 2020-21

by Germar Erfe Guhit nina Rafaela Janna Babaran at Van Ellis Mercado Under the distance learning, Cavite State University-Imus Campus studentry jeopardized in front of both vicissitudes and breakthroughs amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Here is the overview of the events that CvSU-Imus Campus faced during AY 2020-2021.

SEPTEMBER 5, 2020 CvSU launched the CvSU E-Learning portal to resolve the then-forthcoming problem of online learning at the university. The said portal drew multiple criticisms after its inability to accommodate copious web traffic.

SEPTEMBER 7, 2020 The official start of A.Y.2020-2021. Student groups protested in front of CvSU-Main Campus as they believed that the university isn’t prepared for flexible learning.

OCTOBER 24, 2020 The keywords “NSTP” and “CvSU” placed within the top 10 of the Twitter trending list after Col. Erwin Alea redtagged progressive groups during the webinar held by Strengthened Alliance on Fight Against Illegal Drugs and Terrorism Cavite (SAFER Cavite) and National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

OCTOBER 30, 2020 The CvSU Administration released an apology statement regarding the NSTP webinar turmoil while claiming that the university “never red-tagged” any member of the CvSU community.

NOVEMBER 23-26, 2020 CvSU-Imus Campus held its first online election for the Central Student Government (CSG) and nine other student organizations.

DECEMBER 8, 2020 CvSU-Imus Honor Society released an official list of election winners for the vacant seats in CSG and student organizations. Presidential bet Acmad Bacolod and IQuality Partylist candidates won via landslide victory.

JANUARY 9, 2021 CSG-Main Campus launched the No Failing Grade CSG-Main Campus launched the No Failing Grade Policy (NFGP). The said plan aimed to ease the academic struggles of CvSUeños brought by the new mode of learning.

JANUARY 11-12, 2021 CSG-Main Campus forwarded a letter of request for a face-to-face public dialogue to discuss the NFGP plan with CvSU Pres. Hernando Robles. On Jan. 12, CSG received a response from the Office of the Student Affairs and Services (OSAS) with the latter refusing to conduct a physical meeting.

JANUARY 20, 2021 For the second time, the CvSU administration declined the request for public face-to-face dialogue from CSG Main.

On the other hand, the admin opted to conduct the dialogue through an online modality.

JANUARY 22, 2021 The NFGP public dialogue deliberated. However, a misunderstanding between CSG and the university admin happened as the officers telecasted the public dialogue via Facebook Live. Thus, Pres. Robles decided to adjourn the meeting.

JANUARY 26, 2021 In a supporting statement, NTF-ELCAC spokesperson Lorraine Badoy released a list of universities that according to her are recruitment hubs of communist groups. CvSU is among the red-tagged tertiary institutions alongside independent groups and student organizations.

MARCH 3, 2021 Sen. Christopher “Bong” Go used CvSU-Silang to launch his projects—an act of premature campaigning as claimed by the League of Filipino Students-CvSU Chapter.

MARCH 7, 2021 The Bloody Sunday crackdown happened, killing nine activists in Southern Tagalog. One of the victims is Chai Lemita-Evangelista, a Business Management alumna from CvSU-Imus and a sectoral union advocate within and outside the university.

APRIL 24, 2021 Despite apolitical staunchness, CvSU invited Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa as a guest speaker for the 107th Virtual Commencement Exercises.

MAY 21, 2021 Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Chairperson Prospero De Vera stated that higher education institutions (HEIs) will continue adapting flexible learning until the school year 2021. “From now on, flexible learning will be the norm at wala nang balikan sa tradisyunal na face-to-face learning,” De Vera stressed.

Kuha ni Wayne Gerodias

JUNE 4, 2021 CvSU administration drew flak after releasing a supporting statement on CHED Chairperson De Vera’s position about the continuous implementation of flexible learning. Despite the adversities faced by the studentry, CvSU adamantly claimed that the said flexible learning is the “best strategy” to safeguard the academe’s health.

28-29 Debuhista Rafaela Janna Babaran Patnugot ng Kartuns at Komiks Van Ellis Mercado | Leslie Libo-on | Aldrian Barias | Rae Niño Pelagia Debuhista

Solusyon o Kapangyarihan ni Leslie Libo-on

Community Pantry ni Rae Niño Pelagia

30-31 | Litratista

The possible solution for your problem is just a few steps away. Known for its prestigious name, the Buhay na Tubig Barangay Hall has been standing for a long time in all its might and dignity. Strict about their COVID19 protocols inside the barangay hall, they conduct multiple rounds of free vaccinations for those who need them. With numerous consultations, appointments, and free medicine, one can never be deprived of what’s needed.

In light of the joy they bring every single day, they managed to establish a delightful daycare right beside the hall. Pleasant and serene as it looks, nothing can be livelier than the daycare before the pandemic since the laughs and shrieks of children are what keep this place in harmony. Providing free education to a myriad of children is one of their goals for the community. It strives to make a difference in everything it could do. (Kuha at wika ni Nastassja Braceros)

Portraits of the Pandemic:

How LGUs respond to the COVID-19 health crisis?

In 2020, COVID-19 started to spread in the Philippines. It is considered to be the worst crisis for all Filipinos. The government ordered a total lockdown in the country. Businesses had to close and civilians must remain indoors. Only front-liners were allowed to go outside. As of today, we are not yet free to do everything we want outside our homes as the virus is still roaming around.

With fatality being imminent, local government units (LGUs), alongside the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF), lifted health safety measures. Every barangay set a place for people with suspected infection and for those who need immediate medical help. They also provide at least financial assistance among their constituents.

The COVID-19 Pandemic halted the livelihood of many Kawiteños. How did the LGU respond? With their faces printed all over the town.

With as little as one thousand pesos cash assistance from the national government, the locals are expecting more from the municipal government. (Kuha at wika ni Wayne Gerodias)

The Bacoor City LGU, like the others, decided to give quarantine passes for every head or representative of each household during the community quarantine to minimize the number of people in crowded places.

As the country continues to fight the pandemic, the government sees vaccination as a means to eradicate the virus.

The City of Imus hastily participated in the vaccination campaign with almost 21,000 vaccines administered from June 21 to 25, 2021.

And with its population of more than 500,000, the city still has a long way to go in vaccination before they return to normal. (Kuha at wika ni Wayne Gerodias)

Located at Brgy. Mambog 3, innumerable crowds flock around almost every day outside the gates. With a multitude of schedules plastered against the surrounding walls of this hall, the town couldn’t decide what to gush about it all. Whether it’s the scholarship assistance or "ayuda" that takes most of their time throughout the week, the kagawads are all inclined to administer their defeat.

The everyday occurrence made everyone delighted. However, its main purpose completely diminishes occasionally once the contributions take place. Treasurers will arrive behind schedule, causing the horde to get agitated entirely; disregarding physical distancing and not to mention the scorching heat, inducing them to remove their face shields in line. Indeed, each person will get what they need but at what cost? (Kuha at wika ni Nastassja Braceros)

They’re not just implementing protocols for outdoor activities, they also have health protocols implemented for indoor matters, like sectoral meetings, such as homeowners associations, to ensure safety against the looming COVID-19 cases.

(Kuha at wika ni Byron Peter Nocon)

Kuha ni Andie Boqueo

33-34 | Panitikan May Tsismis Ako

Ang Nars sa Staff Room

ni Maria Teresa P. Leviste

ni Teresa May Sarzata

Ngayong quarantine, mapagtatanto mo ang iba’t ibang bagay na hindi mo labis maunawaan noong normal pa ang buhay. Sa social media, maraming tsismis ang nais mong malaman dahil marahil, ito na nga lamang ang nagsisilbing libangan na pangtanggal ng bagot dala ng lockdown.

Subalit, ano nga ba ang madalas na laman ng tsismis kaya interesado tayo rito?

Hindi lingid sa kaalaman ng lahat na ang pag-ibig ay tinaguriang universal language para sa masa. Siguro naman ay halos lahat ng tao sa buong mundo ay nakaramdam na ng sari-saring klase ng pag-ibig. Pagkakaibigan o pagkakaibigan? Marinig o mabasa lamang ‘to ng mga kabataan ngayong panahon ay uukit na ang kilig sa kanilang mga puso. Ang iba naman ay nagiging bitter dahil ika nga nila, “friendzoned” daw sila ng crush nila. Subalit, kahit ganito man ang natatanggap dahil sa pag-ibig, hindi pa rin naman natin maipagkakailang malakas ang epekto nito sa ating katauhan — sariling pag-ibig man natin ito o hindi.

Bawat lumalaganap na tsismis ay tungkol sa pagmamahalan ng mga artista, sikat na personalidad o mga normal na tao lamang na nag-viral dahil sa isang post. Ang mga problema ay kadalasang umiikot sa panloloko, hindi maka-move-on, nakipagbalikan, nabuntis, kinasal, ipinaTulfo at marami pang iba. Makikita rito na kapag pag-ibig ang pinag-uusapan, maraming apektado. Hindi rin natin masasabi kung nakikiuso lang ang iba dahil trending at gustong makasabay sa agos sa social media. Paglalaruan ang damdamin ng iba gamit ang prank para may katatawanan. Kani-kaniyang trip kumbaga.

Ang iba naman ay binansagan ang sarili nilang “love guru” sapagkat magaling daw silang magpayo sa buhay pag -ibig ng iba pero single naman. May natamaan ba? Uso rin yung “pasensiya na, ganito lang ako” — linyahan naman ng mga humihingi ng tawad pero ang totoo, gaslighting ang ginagawa nila. Kaya ang mga nabibiktima nito, nahihirapan makipaghiwalay sa kanilang kapareha sa kadahilanang nalilito ang isip nila at nawawala na sa katinuan. Ayan tuloy, cool off daw muna. Kalaunan, maghihiwalay din naman dahil may iba nang kausap ang isa.

Pag-ibig nga naman, kung ano-ano ang nagagawa nito sa tao. Lalo na roon sa mga kulang sa aruga o atensiyon kaya’t nagiging sadboi at sadgirl ang dating nila. Mabuti na lang at may voice at video call na sa panahon ngayon.

Salamat sa makabagong teknolohiya, napupunan ang ating kahilingan na mabawasan kahit kaunti ang pangungulila sa mga taong mahal natin. Ang hirap pa naman na habang tumatagal ay padagdag nang padagdag ang problema sa isang relasyon. Nagsisimulang mabuwag ang tiwala dahil nakilala ni partner si ex, nagiging kalaban ang insecurities at overthinking, pati na rin ang pride ng jowa mo.

Gayunpaman, mananatili pa rin naman ang pagmamahalan sa isa’t isa. Dahil ‘di matiis, palihim na nagkikita kahit na may ECQ pa. Stay-at-home date para makapag-Netflix and chill. Mahirap naman pigilan ang iba.

Lalabas pa mismo ng bahay upang umangkas sa motor, kumain sa fast-food chain, magbisikleta nang magkasama, sabay na mag-Tiktok sa kalye at magkakape sa isang sikat na café shop sa kabila ng mainit na panahon. Siyempre, huwag kalilimutan ang tamang pagsusuot ng face mask at face shield, at ang pagdadala ng alkohol.

Ngunit, mariing ipinapaalala na huwag na munang lumabas ng bahay dahil napaparamdam naman natin ang ating pagmamahalan kahit hindi sa pisikal na aspekto.

Patunay lamang ito na ang impluwensiya ng pag-ibig ay makapangyarihan lalo na sa panahon ng pandemya. Ito ang dahilan kung bakit magkakabigkis pa rin ang komunidad sa kabila ng lahat ng pinagdaraanan. Walang problema kung ikaw man ay single dahil marami kang kaibigang nagmamahal sa’yo. Malay mo, ang magiging katipan mo pala ay nasa tabi mo lamang at hinihintay kang tingnan mo siya. At kung mayroon ka nang napupusuan, ingatan mo at baka kumalat pa ang bagong tsismis para sa masa.

Sa bawat pag-ikot ng kamay ng orasan, mahigit dalawampu na naman ang idineklarang patay.

Marahang tinakpan ni Alan ang katawan ng pasyente at isinilid sa isang bodybag. Lumipat siya sa kabilang silid upang gawin ang kaparehas na proseso.

May kabigatan ang pasyente ngunit hindi niya ito ininda. Sa limang taon niyang pagiging nars, hindi na bago ang ganitong sitwasyon. Gayunpaman, ngayong taon niya lamang naranasang magbuhat nang higit limampung katawan sa isang araw.

Naging parte na rin ng kanyang natural na pigura ang mga masel sa kamay at balikat.

Matapos makatapos sa silid, mabilis siyang tumungo sa staff room upang doon ay magpahinga.

Hindi maiwasan ni Alan na mapabuntong-hininga dala na rin marahil ng pagod at pagkasuya. “Sa totoo lang... Sa panahon ngayon, suwerte pang

maituturing kung namayapa ka na,” wika niya sa sarili.

Araw-araw kang papasok para lang makakita ng kaliwa’t kanang mga pasyenteng naghihingalo at nahihirapang huminga.

“Kung ako ang nasa posisyon nila, mas pipiliin kong hindi na huminga kaysa naman ang gumaling pa at paglabas sa institusyong ito ay nakakasulasok na pamomolitika at kawalang kongkretong solusyon pa rin ang madaratnan. Sa loob ng isang taon, ang pamamalagi sa iisang sitwasyon ay maituturing nang hindi bago pero bakit ni katiting na pagbabago ay wala.” Tugon niya sa sarili.

Itinuon niya na lamang ang isip sa sarili at muling isinuot ang protective gear sa ikalawang pagkakataon. “Sana malasin ako ngayon.” Mahinang sambit niya sa sarili.

Anxiety

by Arlene Elaine G. Balbuena Anxiety, anxiety, anxiety...

How we worry about the safety Of our dreams null and dainty, And our wishes of hope and subtlety?

Anxiety, anxiety, anxiety...

Maybe, a disorder in personality.

I don’t know my main priority But weary about a certain casualty.

Anxiety, anxiety, anxiety...

I forgot all my functionality.

Living life with absurdity.

Death with such acceptability.

Anxiety, anxiety, anxiety...

Please more anonymity.

Dealing with such difficulty Of one having anxiety.

Ang Tagapaligtas

Karatula sa Handaan ni Karina Tesaluna Isa na namang panibagong araw.

Siguradong maraming darating.

Nakahanda na ang lamesang paglalatagan ng mga ihahain.

Hindi na magkanda-ugaga ang mga tao sa loob at labas ng bahay namin. Kitang-kita ko mula sa bintana ng aking silid kung gaano kalaki ang ngiti ng aking ina na tila sabik na sabik sa pagdating ng mga bisita.

Mayroong bawang, sibuyas at carrots, pati na rin ang repolyo, toyo at paminta, at baka may pansit din mamaya.

May manok, sayote at luya na ring maaaring itinola.

Nakahiwa na rin ang baboy na puwede nang iluto kung sinuman ang kukuha.

Dumarami na ang bisita. Inilabas na ang lahat ng pagkain. Gayundin, ang malaking karatula na pinagawa ni Papa kay Kuya.

Dahan-dahan kong binasa ang nakasulat.

“Ku-mu-ha-ba-tay-sa-pa-nga-nga-i-lan-gan.”

ni Rodolfo Dacleson II

Sa gitna ng pandemya, Natagpuan ko siya — Isang kaibigang naging sandigan.

Natatakbuhan sa oras ng pangangailangan.

Panulat ko’y siyang kaligtasan.

Kapiling sa saliw ng lumbay.

Kaagapay sa oras nang pag-iisa.

Saksi sa aking pagpapatuloy.

Tawag niya’y tila musika sa tainga, Kay sarap pakinggan at sabayan.

Sa himig niyang kawili-wili, Nagiging isa ang kamay, puso’t isipan.

Gaya ng hirasol na uhaw sa sikat ng araw, Ako’y nakabalik sa liwanag sa gabay niya.

Natanaw ko ang kinabukasan.

May pag-asa palang nagkukubli sa kadiliman.

Sa pagdampi niya sa blankong papel, Madiin man o mababaw, Biniyayaan niya ako ng dalawang regalo — Kalayaa’t kapayapaan.

Give Me Some Hope

by Marie Claire Pagasartonga Reflection of rays is not coming through at all.

No single clue of hope and my faith is so small.

Looking anywhere, somebody for me to call.

Anyone upstairs just keep on passing the ball.

Is there anyone here trying to save their soul?

Humans are struggling and we're all waiting to fall.

We have seen minimal light and started to crawl.

Pulling out the bags slowly and one has to roll.

Do something, act, and be responsible for your role.

Watch out for the outsiders, let us check their soul.

Good health and assurance, these are our first goals.

When will this end, let us all overcome the hole.

Chapter XIX

by Jaylla Perez

Pansamantala ni Klaeford Crispin Marahan akong bumangon mula sa kaniyang matitigas na bisig. Nagsuklay ng buhok at pagkatapos ay uminom ng malamig na tubig. Tuyo’t uhaw na uhaw ako sa masarap na pangyayari.

Habang tinitingnan ang matangos na ilong ni Vincent, mababakas sa kaniyang mga mata ang pag-aalinlangan. Tila ba malalim ang iniisip.

Muli akong humiga sa kama at muling nagdikit ang aming mga katawan. Dama ko ang init ng kanyang katawan. Parang makina ng sasakyan pagkatapos nang napakahaba at nakakapagod na biyahe.

Ibinaling ko ang tingin ko sa kisame. Sa apat na sulok ng kuwartong ito ko natitikman ang kalayaan. Dito sa madilim na espasyo ko natatagpuan ang tunay na kasiyahan.

Kasiyahang mahagkan siya, kasiyahang mapag-isa ang aming pagkatao, kasiyahang lubos kong...

Kring, kring, kring...

Tumunog ang kanyang telepono, senyales ng pagtatapos ng napakahabang gabi.

Tawag na yumanig sa aming tahimik na mundo. Ang katapusan ng pantasya at napakagandang panaginip.

Kahit na nag-aalinlangan, sinagot ni Vincent ang tawag niya. “Parating na ako babe,” ang masakit na sambit niya. Tanggap ko. Alam ko na ang mga susunod na mangyayari. Dali-dali siyang nagbihis at nanalamin.

Tiningnan ko siya habang palabas ng pinto. Lumingon siya sa akin. Sapat na ang kaniyang sinambit.

“Salamat Joshua ha.”

Dinadamdam ko ang natitirang gabi habang umiiyak ang langit kasabay nang ‘di inasaahang pagtulo ng aking luha.

Magpatuloy Ka

Have you ever read a story and paused for a while, then after a minute of silence, you were amazed by how good it was? Then you’ll suddenly utter words like — “Wow. Just wow.”

Have you ever wondered what it would feel like if you were the character? But before that, how’s your story going? I mean, I’m not talking about your Instagram and Facebook stories. I’m talking about your life story.

Since the year 2020 came into your life, have you ever experienced some paradigm shifts that turn your world upside down? Have you ever met different characters and heard their stories? How about their conflicts? How did you manage to get through here? How have you been able to cope since the pandemic entered your life?

The pandemic is indeed something we don’t expect that would likely happen.

The plans we prepared, the bucket lists, the New Year’s resolutions, and the desired chapter that we want just suddenly vanished into thin air. For some, who have everything they need, the pandemic is not a problem, but for some, it’s another battle they need to win no matter what.

We have different strategies on how to face this unexpected plot twist in our lives but we’re all facing the same crisis. The ultimate mission that everyone must accomplish is nothing more than to keep on breathing and survive every single day.

For some people, the everyday setting is not always the same. Wherever their feet will walk, that is where they seek money to feed themselves or their family. In the Philippines, life sucks when you have no source of income or any single penny. If you want to survive, you have to walk on your own despite the frightening threat of the virus outside. In addition, the financial assistance from the government is not enough to suffice a family’s needs.

Sometimes, we will meet people at the most unexpected times who’ll give us the lesson that we most needed in life. The moment when someone made you realize that you must keep going no matter what, bit by bit, they became part of your life. A new character that will complete the story and add colors to our monochrome shades of black and white. The characters and connections have a huge impact on why we are still alive today.

Although vaccines are available, there is still no resolution for this conflict so far. We’re all arguing, wanting, and praying that one day this pandemic will end and everything will fall to its proper place one more time. We are all hoping.

We have different stories to tell. Whether it's good or bad, what matters is that we learn something from it. Every chapter of life is full of twists and turns, we just have to get used to it and enjoy whatever it brings to us. The pandemic is just a chapter. A chapter that we want to forget or remember. A chapter that we learned something valuable to cherish not only today but also for the rest of our lives.

The year 2020 and 2021 were just a chapter of our story. Tragic things happened. The cry and lost laughter of people echoed in the empty streets. People also struggled with how to cope with the new normal of living. The memories that we have there just proved how strong we are — that we can come this far. Sometimes, some chapters are not always happy but the story must go on. Life never stops in 2021, too. We are the characters of our own story so that we should make every second count and make the most of it. Cheers for more chapters of life!

To be continued …

ni Ayella Russell Cremat Salamat sa iyo aking kababayan.

Ikaw na nagpupunyagi sa gitna ng isang taong hindi matapos-tapos na labanan.

Ikaw na humihikbi sa hating-gabi’t ngumingiti sa bukang-liwayway.

Salamat sa iyong adhikain na pagyamanin ang iyong sarili upang makatulong sa mas nakararami.

Kung minsa’y hindi mo alintana ang bigat ng iyong mga mata.

Ngunit, halos ayaw mo nang bumangon sa tuwing ilalapat mo ang ‘yong katawan sa kama.

Huwag kang mangamba, Sa labang ito’y hindi ka nag-iisa.

Ang bawat pagtitiis mo’y may halaga.

Susubukin ka ba ng Ama kung alam niyang hindi mo kaya?

Ang pagsubok sa mundo’y walang katapusan.

Paanong magwawagi kung hihinto ka?

Palayain mo ang iyong sarili sa takot.

Maaari kang magpahinga ngunit huwag mong sukuan ang iyong tadhana.

Hindi man malinaw sa iyo ang lahat, Ariin mong bukas ay panibagong simula.

Totoong bawat araw ay nakakapanghina.

Tila walang pagsulong na nagaganap.

Marahil, sadyang ganito ang proseso ng ating buhay.

Walang kasiguraduhan kung kailan tayo magtatagumpay.

Kaya salamat aking kababayan.

Kinaya mo mula umpisa kaya’t huwag kang susuko.

Malapit man o malayo pa, sa labanang ito’y mananalo ka.

Ipikit mo ang iyong mga mata at magtiwala sa magagawa Niya.

Shut-in Net

by Danielle Tolentino Day 1 - I woke up in the morning and did nothing except browsing. I will eat downstairs when everyone is done. Then, go back to my room —my comfort zone.

Day 2 - I started playing games and stayed up way too late.

Day 3 - The morning rose and passed without me noticing.

I’m still dreaming of the time I have with you and didn’t notice that it was afternoon already.

Day 4 - I began reading romance stories. I read different kinds until I became numb and lost in time.

Day 5 - After getting tired of playing and reading, I tried to play my guitar. Unfortunately, I lost touch.

Day 6 - When I woke up from bed, I noticed something when I passed through the mirror. I didn’t know how but it looks like I gained more weight. Yet, I didn’t mind it.

Day 7 - It’s the last day of my house quarantine. I am excited but remembered that it will be extended for another seven days.

Kuha ni Nastassja Braceros

36-37 | Isports

ESPORTS:

The world of Filipino gamers amid pandemic

STRASUC-MLBB qualifiers

Imus suffers heart-breaker as Silang advances to finals

by El Rex Africa and Rodolfo Dacleson II

T

Guhit nina Rae Niño Pelagia and Aldrian Barias

by April Florano

F

ilipinos are into sports even before coronavirus completely halted physical activities resulting in players jumping inside the virtual world.

However, due to quarantine restrictions, Defense of the Ancients (DOTA), Call of Duty (COD), and Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB), to name a few online games, became popular among Filipinos.

Such games belong to the immense and growing realm of “esports”. It is an abbreviation for electrical sports described as an official sport built on competitive and organized video gaming.

In the country, there are almost 53 million Filipino gamers by 2020, said Philippine Esports Organization (PESO) Dep. Exec. Dir. Marlon Marcelo. He added that 74 percent of gamers use mobile devices followed by personal computers (65 percent) and gaming consoles (45 percent).

Rise of esports in the PH Computer shops in the early 2000s opened their doors to Filipinos to access the internet. This resulted in the spread like wildfire in the country. Aside from providing customers, the opportunity to surf the web is given as well as the chance to try and experience online gaming.

Currently, with the advent of technological innovations through the years, online gaming has also progressed. Mobile devices, like smartphones, paved the way for Filipinos to enjoy online games. Aspiring online gamers can download and play games anywhere, anytime, as long as there is an available internet connection.

Top benefits of esports For the majority, whether professional gamers or not, esports serve as entertainment, a stress reliever, and a source of income in these trying times.

Locals, who feel bored while in lockdowns, find online games as a way to combat anxiety and loneliness, and enjoy the moment. It’s a fun and lively spectacle to show your passion for sports yet in a whole new level and scheme.

Downsides of esports Esports are fun and enticing. Yet, for some, it is a waste of time. For them, spending hours or even days in front of mobile devices and desktops to play is a futile activity. At worst, it leads to addiction and changes in social behaviors.

Its impact on the body is also a major concern among people. The American Osteopathic Association described esports as inactive in nature. Specifically, musculoskeletal difficulties that strain the back, neck, and upper body areas could arise when gamers played without break and limit.

Bright future Indeed, esports became a popular form of entertainment in the Philippines. It appeals to a mass audience looking for an escape place to enjoy and stay sane. It’s an icon of hope for man in these trying times that keep us away from the usual activities we do.

What are you waiting for? Play and have fun!

hey fought until the final stretch but not enough.

Hype Fam fell short of reaching the STRASUCMLBB Esports Qualifiers finals after absorbing a heart-breaking 3-2 defeat in the hands of Silang Flaming Phoenix last Independence Day this year.

The defeat permanently closed the doors for the Cavite State University Imus Campus-based to represent CvSU in the firstever regional meet.

In an interview with team captain Charmaine Pamuti, she said that the team prepared for Silang through rank matches while employing different drafting strategies.

“So basically, po we prepared for the draft sa game kasi we believed po na it is one of the most important things sa larong yun.” the BS Hospitality Management sophomore stated.

Yet, it didn’t yield the result they wanted, especially in the decider.

“That was a very close and crucial game. Maybe the reason for it (loss) is that we have made the wrong draft for that Game 5.” she shared.

After the dominant plays of the Flaming But the good things Phoenix in Game 1, Hype naman na nakita ko Fam awakened from their based on the deep sleep and took control results is we learn of Game 2 to tie the from our mistakes and marquee showdown. improve as a player, when it Both teams shared a piece of wins in Games 3 comes to team performance and 4, thus, forcing a yun nga we also improve as a decider that Silang won with team compare sa dati na their expertise on nangangapa pa kami sa gameplays, objectives, and galawan ng isa’t isa.” hero pickings.

On the brighter side of things, Pamuti shared that her squad will learn from the mistakes they made and improve as players. And as a team, according to her, Hype Fam became better compared to before.

“But the good things naman na nakita ko based on the results is we learn from our mistakes and improve as a player, when it comes to team performance yun nga we also improve as a team compare sa dati na nangangapa pa kami sa galawan ng isa’t isa.”

She also expressed her gratitude to everyone who supported their team’s journey throughout the competition.

“On behalf of my team, we want to express our heartfelt appreciation for each and every one who supported us in every game we have fought throughout our journey in Mobile Legends tournaments. We are really thankful to them for giving us [the] motivation to fight and win a game.” she added.

Hype Fam’s composition is the same team that represented CvSU-Imus during the Regional School Rivals organized by Moonton’s Mobile Legend: Bang Bang Student Leader on March 13, 2021.

“

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Dumog: The art of Filipino wrestling

by Karina Tesaluna

T

he Philippines is a country full of diversity with thousands of islands abundant in colorful culture and tradition. Such differences also reflect our distinctive martial arts, which are believed to have emerged during the colonial period.

Over time, as we fostered it, Filipino martial arts (FMA) are recognized in the world. As the fighting styles kept on evolving and merging, it led to the creation of copious Philippine traditional arts. Thus, each martial art often had different names depending on which ethnic community you're talking to.

What does dumog mean?

Frequently used in Mindanao and Visayas, dumog (grappling) is a Filipino standing upright style of wrestling distinguished for its use of grappling techniques.

In Luzon, the martial art is called or known as "buno" by Southern Tagalogspeaking provinces as far as Mindoro in the south. Buno lives by its name as it focuses on throwing and takedown techniques.

Unknown beginning Like any other FMAs, Dumog's origin is still not clear. Though some of its aspects somehow exist centuries ago, dumog shows similarity with judo and Western wrestling, which was incorporated into it during the pre- and post-World War II era.

There is also a story narrating that Filipino warriors would wait for a lone sentry to pass by and yell “dumog!” to signal an ambush. One man would grab the sentry and control him, while the others would quickly stab him and disappear back into the bush.

How is dumog played?

The main objective of the sport is the same as any other wrestling. Players have to force their opponents onto the ground by pushing, pulling, and grabbing to throw them off balance. Aside from the very common joint lock moves, wrestlers also rely on weight shift tactics, in which they wrestle using their weight as an advantage to subdue their foes.

The whole concept of dumog revolves around targeting various locations in the human body called "control points". In bouts, wrestlers target these spots — also referred to as "choke points" — to disrupt the opponent’s balance and bring them down. Targeting checkpoints open opportunities for close-range attacks like head butting, and striking with elbows, forearms, and knees.

Our country, despite polarity, can be united by having a great time tackling and supporting our local martial arts.

Indeed, FMA could unite the Philippines through the preservation and development of our culture.

Guhit nina Rae Niño Pelagia and Aldrian Barias

PSC appeals to LGUs for SEAG-bound athletes training

by Teresa May Sarzata

P

hilippine Sports Commission (PSC) Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President and Tagaytay Commissioner and 31st Southeast Asian (SEA) Rep. Bambol Tolentino announced a week later that their Games Chief de Mission Ramon Fernandez locality alongside Sta. Rosa, Laguna and Taguig City are urged the National Sports Associations (NSAs), opening their doors for the training of the athletes.

April 13, to team up with local government units (LGUs) to Sta. Rosa agreed to accommodate fifty athletes in their help and accommodate the country's representatives for the locality, Taguig City accepted hosting Volleyball and Table upcoming biennial meet.

Tennis teams, and Cycling and Kickboxing training will be This came after Greater Manila was put under enhanced held in Tagaytay City. community quarantine (ECQ) restrictions due to the "Yung ganung project kasi you need a memo from the surge of daily COVID-19 cases that hampered the DILG (Department of Interior and Local Government) to do athletes' training. that. So in the absence of that, I called some friends who have Fernandez admitted that the sports agency the passion to help sports."Tolentino said as pulling off an can't handle the logistics and finance of all sports NSA and LGU collaboration isn't easy to do. participants since the allocated budget is 200 Moreover, he stated that talks with more LGUs are still million only. He explained that half of it is rolling. meant to be spent during the actual Training sessions are set to resume by July participation and the other half will and Fernandez hopes that be used for training expenses. the three-month training "Makiusap tayo sa mga period is enough to defend LGUs to help our athletes. the country's overall championship Maghati-hati tayo. Dito mati-test at the SEA Games 2019. natin ngayon kung nakaka-unite POC already submitted 636 entries to ba talaga ang sports.” he said in participate in 39 over 40 events for this year's the Philippine Sports Hanoi SEA Games, which is smaller than the recent edition's Association (PSA) online forum.

56 spectacles, while Esports, Jiu-jitsu, and Bowling are the On the other hand, other sports included.

Ramon Fernandez (Larawan mula Philippine News Agency)

38-39 | Isports

Prep for perfection: Gilas’ road to seamless ACQ record

by Rickie Cathleen Javier

Larawan mula Ageo Medics

Ageo offers Jaja citizenship, 'might' play for Japan

by Rodolfo Dacleson II

J

aja Santiago as a naturalized Japanese?

That's the big revelation Santiago shared in an online interview with Volleyball DNA last April 14, 2021.

The 25-year-old National University product said that Ageo Medics offered her naturalization.

“Kalagitnaan pa lang ng liga, gusto na nila ako mag-stay. Gusto nilang palitan yung nationality ko actually,” the 6-foot-5 middle blocker narrated.

"Gusto nila akong mag-stay pa doon, tapos gusto nila akong tulungan palitan 'yung nationality ko." she furthered.

Santiago played a big role in the Saitama-based squad's title run in the Japan V. Cup this year and bronze medal haul in the V. League tournament last season.

If Santiago would accept the offer, she would become a registered local player eligible to represent Team Nippon in major international tilts like the Olympics and World Championship.

Yet, a part of her still wants to wear the Philippine women’s volleyball team jersey in overseas tournaments.

“May dream ako makapaglaro sa Olympics pero siyempre may pride pa rin naman ako bilang Pilipino,” the UAAP Season 80 Most Valuable Player stated.

"Gusto ko tulungan yung bansa natin na dun sa goal ko na yun, gusto ko kasama yung kapwa Pilipino ko." she added.

Santiago remained committed to Ageo despite receiving offers from three Japanese clubs — Kurobe AquaFairies, PFU BlueCats, and Toray Arrows — and opportunities to play in China and Turkey.

T

ab Baldwin’s young Gilas Pilipinas squad swept the third and final window of the 2021 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers (ACQ) hosted by the nation from June 1620 at Angeles City University Foundation Arena and Cultural Center in Clark, Pampanga. The home team defeated formidable South Korea twice — a rare feat achieved by the country in decades against its longtime Asian tormentors — and crushed Southeast Asian rival Indonesia in a rematch.

Now, let’s take a look back on how Gilas managed to cruise in the main tournament unblemished.

Hail Mary shot for the win!

SJ Belangel, the 5foot-10 guard from Ateneo De Manila University (ADMU), nailed a buzzer-beating triple over South Korea that paved the way for the Philippines’ first triumph against SoKor in eight years.

At first glance, South Korea is in a good position for an easy win by steering the Nationals to their extent from the getgo. The visiting Asian arch-nemesis established a commanding 17-point lead

in the second frame. However, the Philippines slowly caught up and ended the first half trailing by only eight points, 44-36, thanks to newly naturalized big man Angelo Kouame’s trey.

Opening the third quarter with increased vigor, team captain Isaac Go let Gilas taste its first lead with a layup, followed by baskets from Dwight Ramos, Carl Tamayo, RJ Abarrientos, and Kouame that enabled the host to enter the payoff period at the front, 5756.

Up by four points in the fourth quarter, 70-66, the Nationals found themselves in a tough spot as SoKor flipped the table around, 75-70, off a 9-0 run.

Tamayo, Ramos, and Justine Baltazar’s freethrows trimmed the deficit and set the stage for Belangel’s tiebreaking bucket to reclaim the lead, 76 -75, followed by Kouame’s putback with a foul. Yet, he missed his charity that allowed Korea’s Lee Hyunjung to sink the game-tying trey with two ticks to go.

The game almost went to overtime yet Belangel ensured that it would not happen as he escaped the defense of his South Korean defender, grabbed the inbound pass from Ramos, and fired the biggest shot of his career so far as a national team player.

Ramos topped the five double-digit scorers for the Philippines with16 points while collecting five rebounds and two steals. Belangel chipped in 13, Kouame

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YOUTH IS FUTURE. Gilas Pilipinas asserted a masterful display of chemistry and hustle to dominate Group A during the 2021 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers and enter the main tournament with six wins and no losses. (Wika ni Andie Boqueo/ Mga larawan mula FIBA) had 12, Tamayo tallied 10, and Sotto listed an 11marker, seven-board output.

Rolling past SEA neighbor In their second game, Gilas bagged its fifth consecutive win in the qualifiers by slamming the door shut against Indonesia off a dominant 76-51 drubbing.

Despite ending the first half in the lead, 30-22, it was a sluggish outing for the Philippines as the stubborn Raiko Toroman-mentored squad led by naturalized player Lester Prosper gave them a headache on both ends of the court.

In the postgame press

conference, Baldwin addressed that Gilas’ lack of selfdiscipline in the first 20 minutes of the ball game prompted the Indons to stay at par with them.

“We really lacked self-discipline, like the discipline in the culture that we’re working hard to establish.

Without that we’re pretty ordinary.” he said.

Dunking and smashing, a fiercer Gilas young guns then stomped class in the third canto en route in sending their SEA foe in dire straits as they amassed a 25-point advantage until the final buzzer sounded.

Baltazar and Kouame made great strides with a combined 22-point contribution while Ramos had 10 markers.

Thumping words of ‘disrespect’ Keeping in mind Korea’s head coach Cho Sanhyun ‘lucky’ statement, Gilas went fullthrottle to make SoKor pay two in a row, 82-77, and remained unscathed for a perfect 6-0 win-loss in as many games.

Cho claimed Belangel’s three-pointer in their first encounter in ACQ was just a lucky shot. His words indeed lit the Gilas fire and soul to seal and clinch another W over the Koreans.

Ramos delivered 19 points built on five shots from the rainbow country

“

There are times, particularly with a young team when we’re still in a learning curve, when I think it’s important that the players learn how to figure things out themselves. We are very much in that stage, you know, these guys have got to develop a confidence in themselves that that deserves to be there and so they have to figure out problems themselves.” while Sotto, Abarrientos, and Heading conspired for 30 markers.

Ra Guna, SoKor’s naturalized player and former PBA import known as Ricardo Ratliffe, whittled away Gilas’ 75-69 lead with 3:44 minutes to play in the final quarter. The Philippines countered as La Sallian slotman Baltazar scored a flush in the last 33 seconds from a dime assisted by William Navarro — aided eight points and four rebounds — coming off a broken play to push the lead to four points, 79-75, and the Nationals held it until the horn sounded.

“I was particularly happy with our first half defense.

I thought we did a great job in the first half. It really set the tone that we were going to be a competitive team throughout the game and we were going to be there at the end, one way or another.” Baldwin stated.

“There are times, particularly with a young team when we’re still in a learning curve, when I think it’s important that the players learn how to figure things out themselves. We are very much in that stage, you know, these guys have got to develop a confidence in themselves that that deserves to be there and so they have to figure out problems themselves.” he added.

Kuha ni Wayne Gerodias

Corda populi ad veritatem accendens Igniting the hearts of people on truth

The Flare, the official student publication unit of Cavite State UniversityImus Campus, firmly believes that through campus journalism, we can impart the essence of truth to transform the hearts of the studentry and people to serve the university, community, and country to its potential. By upholding and defending press freedom in our campus, CvSUeños can become part of the collective call for change towards a better Filipino society. Now, more than never, we shall commit ourselves to truth to serve the best interest of the masses with excellence.