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Ito ang tatlong salitang nais ikintal at ipaalala ng The Flare, ang Opisyal na Pahayagan ng mga Mag-aaral ng Cavite State University-Imus Campus, sa mga mambabasang bubuklat at susuri sa aming kauna-unahang pagtatanghal ng literary zine na pinamagatang “Pandama’t Puna”.

Sa gitna ng pandemyang dala’y kalituhan, lumbay, pag-iisa at pangungulila sa nakagisnang pamumuhay bago ang umiiral na krisis pangkalusugan, umusbong ang samot-saring kuwentong marapat marinig ng mga Pilipino. Iba’t ibang tinig na nais kumawala sa kawalan, lumaya sa tahanang tila naging kulungan at hangad lamang ay mapakinggan at mabigyang-pansin. Mula sa hindi mabilang na personal o panlipunang danas, isinilang ang publikasyong nagsaayos sa sala-salabat na pakikibaka at pagpupursigi ng masa upang makibagay sa nagbabagong takbo ng pamumuhay. Sinasalamin ng mga akdang pampanitikan, litrato at debuho sa mga pahina ang halo-halong emosyon at sentimyentong nabuo ng ating mga pandama upang magkaroon ng kritikal at obhektibong pananaw sa buhay sa “bagong ngayon”. Sa ngalan ng malayang pamamahayag, inihahatid sa inyo ng Punong Patnugutan at aming mga miyembro ang antolohiyang walang ibang adhika kundi isiwalat at imulat ang lipunan sa halaga ng ating mga pandama’t puna ngayong panahon ng ligalig.

RODOLFO DACLESON PUNONG PATNUGOT

Bawat isa’y may giyerang sinusuong sa gitna ng laban kontra COVID-19.

May kani-kaniyang pagnanasa at pangungulila sa oras na ipinagkait ng naturang sakit kaya’t walang karapatan ang sinumang yurakan at dungisan ang anumang umiiral na pagkilos, pakikibaka at pagtindig. May kalayaan tayong lahat na igiit ang ating pagdaramdam. Gayunpaman, siguraduhing magkabigkis ang puso’t isip bago pumuna.

Sa pamamagitan ng mga pinagtagpi-tagping isinulat na piyesa, kinuhanang litrato at iginuhit na debuho, hangad ng aming publikasyong mailahad at maiparating ang samot-saring danas ng mga Pilipino ngayong panahon ng pandemya. Hango sa halo-halong emosyon ng mga indibidwal, gayundin ang kanilang iba’t ibang opinyon, sentimyento at kuro-kuro ukol sa mga napapanahong isyung panlipunan at mga personal na karanasan, buong galak naming ibinabahagi sa inyo ang likhang pampanitikang ito.

Malugod na inihahandaog ng The Flare, ang opisyal na pahayagan ng mga mag-aaral ng Cavite State University-Imus Campus, ang kaunaunahang nitong literary zine na pinamagatang “Pandama’t Puna.”

RODOLFO D. DACLESON II PUNONG PATNUGOT

CARL ANDREI ALQUERO PATNUGOT NG PANITIKAN

Isang malaking dagok ang ating nararanasan ngayong panahon kung saan ang katotohanan ay hindi na natin malaman kung may sapat na basehan o ginawa lamang upang lituhin ang ating isipan o damdamin. Mula roon, nagkakaroon tayo ng rasong pagdudahan ang ating mga sarili. Ano nga ba ang ating dapat na pairalin sa gitna ng pagsubok o kaguluhan? Isip o pakiramdam? Inihahandog namin sa inyo ang mga gawang obra ng aming pahayagan. Ito’y naglalaman hindi lamang ng kani-kanilang karanasan ngayong pandemya kundi pati na rin ng kani-kaniyang perspektibo ukol sa mga isyung kinahaharap ng bansa ngayon. Gayundin, ang mga guni-guning nabubuo nila sa pagharap sa isang sakit na maaaring baguhin ang ating mga buhay, at mga kuro-kurong umusbong sa lipunan. Nawa’y namnamin ninyo ang bawat piyesang puno ng pagkakataong bigyan ang mga mambabasa ng pagkakataong maintindihan ang rasyonal nitong tema sapagkat tumatalakay ito hindi lamang sa isipan ng tao ngayong may pandemya kundi sa paggamit din ng pakiramdam sa pagsuong sa kahirapan ng buhay. Ang pagkakataong makita ang aming bawat sining at piyesa ay nakakataba na sa aming puso. Humihingi rin kami ng pagkakataong maibahagi ang mga ito sa lahat upang maibahagi ang kabuuang mensahe ng zine na dapat gamitin ang ating isipan at pakiramdam sa pagresolba ng problema ng ating lipunan nang sa gayon ay makita natin ang katotohanan at mabuksan ang isipan ng bansa sa pakikibaka ng taumbayan. Inaalay din namin ito sa frontliners at healthcare professionals na sa kabila ng dalang panganib ng COVID-19 ay patuloy na lumalaban at kumakalinga sa may mga sakit. Mabuhay kayo at manindigan para sa Inyong karapatan.

JHAMELLE SION PATNUGOT NG PRODUKSYON

Ang bawat piyesang nilikha ay may kani-kaniyang kahulugan na binibigyang buhay naman ng mga larawan at iginuhit na debuho upang maiparating sa mambabasa ang mga kalakip nitong mensahe. Gamit ang larawa't guhit, nais bigyanng kagalakan ng aming mga maniniyot, debuhista at tagalapat ng mga pahina ang taumbayan.

Sa panahon ng pandemya, nais naming ibahagi sa inyo ang iba’t ibang perspektibo ng kapwa natin mga Pilipinong patuloy na lumalaban sa mga pagsubok ng buhay. Kabilang na rito ang mga pangyayaring maaaring maganap sa tunay na buhay at mga pangyayaring na puwede rin namang mangyari sa reyalidad.

Mula sa mga ideyang pinagbigkis ng The Flare, ang opisyal na pahayagan ng mga mag-aaral ng Cavite State University-Imus Campus, malugod naming inihahandog sa inyo ang Pandama’t Puna — ang kaunaunahan namin at nating literary zine.

PANDAMA’T PUNA Unang Bolyum, Unang Isyu Karapatang Ari 2021 THE FLARE - Opisyal na Pahayagan ng mga Mag-aaral ng Cavite State University-Imus Campus Miyembro ng College Editors Guild of the Philippines

RESERBADO ANG LAHAT NG KARAPATAN Lahat ng akda sa kalipunang ito ay orihinal at 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 antolohiya. Nananatili ang karapatang sipi nito sa mga manunulat, litratista, debuhista at mga nag-aayos ng pahina at pamunuan ng The Flare, ang opisyal na pahayagan ng mga mag-aaral ng Cavite State University-Imus Campus.

Patnugot Carl Andrei Alquero

Maniniyot ng Pabalat

Rodolfo Dacleson II

Howard Marquez

Jhamelle Sion Disenyo ng Pabalat at Zine Debuhista ng Pabalat

Nicole Ann Teotico

Janna Babaran

Nina Gabrielle Velunta Jessabell Encarnacion Keziah Jemimah Carreon

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

NILALAMAN 1 3 5 7 11 13 15 19 21 23 24 25 26 33 37 39 43 47 51 55 61 64

INTRODUCTION Poetry Until Tomorrow Until When In the Corner Mapinsalang Kapisanan Hamon ng Buhay Flash Fiction 2AM Thoughts Kulungan Concealed Truth Faceshield Covax Throwback to the Cloud Nine Essay Iba na Talaga ang Panahon Ngayon Masid Ang Covid-19, Internet at Ako The Toll of Online Learning Slip Through the Cracks My Response in Times of Pandemic Contributors Corner

n t duc duc The wind blows softlyblows in thesoftly cradle of the morning The wind in the cradle light. The words the pages with ease of theon morning light.speak The words on and the story is the slowly personify. dance letters pages speakAwith easeofand forms words little byislittle. Would you be the story slowly personify. A willing to share a waltz with of it and beforms one with its little world? dance letters words by little. Would you be willing to share a waltz with it and be one with its world?

7 1

o tion

Shall we enter the enclosed house with three

rooms filled with various people? Each person holds a paper containing a story to be told. A few you might recognize and some you may know. It is no wonder for the story might be yours. Would you be willing to take a peek, share, and feel the stories of the bygone days and the chains that shackle all today?

illed with fascination, you walk towards the first door. Inside are five people who speak

too little yet loud enough to shatter the silencing walls. Decipher the letters to make the story easy to

understand. Are you ready to unlock the chains of the poet’s hands?

ne that is aware of the hardships it faces

while the other sees the same yet not for

itself, but in recognition of the others’ pain. Two more people experienced the same struggle yet face different sides of the stained coin. The first one is weary yet its eyes are full of hope, and the other is

slowly tarnishing its hopeful glow. The last one is smiling yet isn’t inside. Asking a question that is hard to answer but easy to utter. The noise of the mind shouts but its lips remained pursed. 4

POETRY

UNTIL TOMORROW

by Klaeford Crispin

Until Tomorrow Artwork by: Rae Nino Pelagia Photo Taken by: Julie Ann Anire & Nastassja Ariele Braceros

PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE

Silence in the beaming light of the corridors. Clamor of help stuck in chancy ventilators. Hopeless voices winding in perilous ambiance. Tireless workers are vulnerable in the near distance. Time flies and they’re still endangering their health, Playing hide and seek on the verge of looming death. Wearing protective white sheets and helpful face shields, Undermining hazards at risk on the battlefield. Valiant hands creating millions of miracles. As mighty as a sword in the nation’s chronicles. Deadly virus relentlessly killing their hope. Judgments of society, they patiently cope. Facing discrimination and undeserved threats. Burned out in the workplace... miserable... dried sweat. Inadequate support by beloved country. Far from the comfort of home, their dearest family.

Until the sun is down, they face adversity. The beginning of an end to uncertainty. Whispers of grave despair in their exhausted mind. Mumbling hope and prayers, no one is left behind. Until the clock is ticking, they’ll choose to survive. For there is breathing, they will tirelessly revive. Until there is a warrior fighting for his life, Bravely leaning on frontlines menacing in strife. As bright as rays of sun in our nation’s banner, A hue of blue that unites clashing barriers. With the divine forces of that three blazing stars, A hue of red that revolutionizes all bars. Until we heal as one in this destructive plague, They will be a solid rock in the environs vague. In the midst of atrocity and vile sorrow, Our heroes in white will thrive until tomorrow.

POETRY

Until When? by Teresa May Sarzata

For a year that I stayed home, I do not even felt relaxed or relieved. Every day as updates came up, My anxious mind went through different thoughts. I divert myself to other matters. I've tried different distractions I can do. I played instruments and did homework, house chores, and stuff. Then, one day I woke up; I felt tired of the unending daily routines. I tried different things to keep me sane. But then, there are times that I began asking — Until when? How long? How long can I endure these things?

I know that I’m not the only one suffering. But isn't this too much? It's been so long. I don't know if I can stay sane until the day it ends.

PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE

Until When? Photo Taken by: Wayne Gerodias

POETRY PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE

Until When? Artwork by: Aldrian Barias

POETRY PANDAMA’T POETRY PUNA PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE THE FLARE

by Danielle Tolentino

POETRY PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE

The first day starts Of new normal society. When the pandemic spread, It is followed by panic. Holing up in their house, Hiding amidst the crisis. Fearing for their own life, Taken by an unseen virus. Putting a cork in the stream. Making everything stop. Holing economy a gap, Even the people at the top. Stuck in the corner, Everyone seeks hope. Hope that help each other, And helps everyone cope. This will never end well. The future may be bleak. Millions for sure will leave. But hope remains.

In The Corner Photo Taken by: Byron Peter Nocon Artwork by: Leslie Libo-on

POETRY

K MAPINSALANG P I S A N A N

Bangon, kilos, kain, tulog. Sabunot ng masa, nakalulunod. Dilim ng kulungan, Kailan matutulungan? Alikabok sa gulong — Paikot-ikot, napapagod. Tusok na lang ng karayom. Buntong hininga, sa halip ay usok. Panlaw sa takipsilim, Bunga ay likido Sa patay na mata Ng mapinsalang kapisanan.

Maria Teresa P. Leviste

Maingay at magulo. Sandali lamang, Patahimikin ang tuktok Kahit saglit lang ang tanging hiling ko.

Salitang guhit sa tabing ng agham. Malawakang bigay na pahinga. Natanong mo na ba, “Kumusta ka?”

PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE

Mapinsalang Kapisanan Guhit ni: Aldrian Barias Kuha ni: Andrea Boqueo

POETRY

O Ham n ng Buhay

ni Jaylla Perez

Van Ellis Mercado

Hamon Ng Buhay Kuha ni: Julie Ann Anire & Wayne Gerodias

PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE

Ang buhay ay puno ng surpresa, Tulad na lamang nitong pandemya. Ang madla ay iniwang balisa, Binawi ang pag-asa’t ligaya.

Pa’no at saan magsisimula Kung kinuha na sa'yo ang lahat? Pa’no hahanapin ang may sala Kung nagtatago at nakakalat?

Minsa’y nasusubok ang ’yong tatag Kung hanggang kailan ka kakapit. Kung makikita pa ang liwanag Upang ang tagumpay ay makamit.

Kung walang hamong naghihintay, Ano pang kabuluhan ng buhay?

POETRY PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE

Hamon Ng Buhay Guhit ni: Van Ellis Mercado

F L A I C T T S II H O O N N

The seconddoor dooris is simpler comparison the other two. The second simpler in in comparison to to the other two. Although, that’s Although, that’s the case the symbolizes room. The room not the case withnot what’s insidewith thewhat’s room. inside The room the people symbolizes the people as to it holds mystery waiting to befull of masks inside as it holds mysteryinside waiting be unlocked. It is a casket unlocked. is a casket full ofawaits masksyou withthere? different Andsee what with different Itsmiles. And what Yousmiles. shall only in a little awaits you there? You shall only see in a little while.

while.

The person near door stared blankly clock in the wall. The firstfirst person near thethe door stared blankly at at thethe clock in the wall. It never It never spoke a single yet itsare thoughts are loud for the spoke a single word yet itsword thoughts loud enough forenough the world. The secworld. second onefrom seeks freedom from the unknown. Helplessly ond oneThe seeks freedom the unknown. Helplessly watching as the time watching time continues move to yetrevolve. the world to continuesas to the move yet the worldtorefuses As refuses you approach the As youaapproach theyou. thirdWhat one,must it throws a question you. thirdrevolve. one, it throws question to be the answer?toI wonder for What must be the answer? I wonder for one can the truth. one only can know only know the truth. Thenext nextone oneisisrather ratherunique uniquefor foritsitsmask maskis isnot nota aface facebut butaacloud. cloud.Soft like The Soft like cotton and white the sky. Yet, what’s underneath is and rain cotton and white as theas sky. Yet, what’s underneath is gloomy gloomy and rain fallingThe from inside. The a last onebut also has only keeps falling fromkeeps the inside. lastthe one also has mask covers

a mask but covers onlyother half of itsgot face while the half got“What a pehalf of its face while the half covered byother thin plastic. covered thin plastic. a as peculiar taste in color...” you culiar tasteby in color...” you “What uttered the crimson color leave anutimpression tered as the crimson color leave an impression in your head.in your head.

18 20

FLASH FICTION

2 A M by Marie Claire Pagasartonga I am here in my bedroom, staring at my All of us can contribute something to blue blank walls.

achieve change.

It is now midnight and I can’t think of

We’re still in the phase of fighting and

anything but this...

surviving.

A year ago, everything is normal.

I’ve witnessed some individuals who

I haven’t noticed that everything slowly blame themselves and others. changed.

We should’ve solved this in a short

I know we can’t control all of ‘em.

period of time.

But we tried our best.

We should’ve done something better.

And we are still trying our best.

We should’ve puzzled this out a long

All we can do is follow the rules and

time ago.

protocols.

What should we do now?

Every day, I wake up realizing that the

I guess I should sleep now, then fight for

pandemic is still here.

my life tomorrow.

Every day you are thinking about when The doctor entered my room to give will it stop.

me medications.

PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE

2AM Thoughts Artwork by: Janna Babaran Photo Taken by: Julie Ann Anire & Byron Peter Nocon

FLASH FICTION

ni April Ann Florano

Nagising ako sa tilaok ng manok. Isang taon na rin pala ang nakalipas. Yung iba nawalan ng buhay, yung iba naman lumalaban para mabuhay. Kagabi, nakita ko sila Mama at Papa sa sala. Hindi maipinta ang kanilang mga mukha. Aksidente kong narinig ang naging pag-uusap nila. "Ano kayang kakainin natin bukas? Wala na tayong trabaho pareho." sabi ni Mama kay Papa. Tinakpan ko ang aking mga tainga ha-

bang tumutulo ang luha. Maya-maya ay nagbihis na si ate. Balot na balot ang kanyan mukha. Hindi ko na rin siya makausap masyado. Hindi na siya tulad ng dati sapagkat abala siyang pagsabayin ang pagtatrabaho at pag-aaral. Gayunpaman, nakita ko naman sa kanyang mga mata ang paglaban para makakain kami ng tatlong beses sa isang araw. Habang hawak ang cellphone, nakita ko ang

Kulungan Guhit ni: Janna Babaran & Leslie Libo-on

s u n o d - s u n o d at libo-libong kaso ng virus sa post ng mga pahina ng mga nagbabalita sa bansa. Walang pagbabago. Gustuhin ko mang buksan ang pinto, malabo pa rin ang sitwasyon. Hindiako sigurado kung s a p a g l a b a s ko,makapupunta ako sa paborito kong lugar. Tulala akong nakatingin sa malayo. "Exercise tayo mamaya," bulong ng isa sa mga paborito kong tao.

PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE

“Everything is under control." I forgot who told

“You’re just making things up to keep me

us this and it’s already been a year. I checked

inside," she responded.

my social media and I noticed a lot of fake

Just like other Filipinos, she can be a bit

news that kept on spreading. Internet became

stubborn. She drowned herself into the

our second world due to this pandemic that

ocean of lies. She’s always soaked in

restricted us from going outside. Although we

social media to the point that she got

are inside of our homes, most of the time we are

involved with people fighting about their

still using face masks and face shields.

so-called "facts".

“Haven’t you noticed that some truths had been

How do we perceive if we can’t see the

concealed? We were forced to see only the

truth? Who should we listen to if everyone

other side of the story.” I said to my sister.

is wearing a mask? No one is safe this

“You see, people thought they won’t get the

day. We lost our senses since the first day

virus once they are vaccinated.” I added.

of quarantine. Lies blinded our eyes. We lost the ability to speak and hear the truth. I lost my sister the day she went outside with her face mask on.

Concealed Truth Artwork by: Aldrian Barias Photo Taken By: Andrea Boqueo

FLASH FICTION

Masayang gumising si Ara ng Sabado ng umaga. Nagplano sila ng kaniyang mga kaibigan na magkita-kita sa isang kapehan dalawang sakay mula sa kaniyang tinitirhan.

tubig at uminom ng vitamins. Hinanda ang face mask at face shield.

Hinanda niya ang kanyang itim na oversized long sleeve at high-waist jeans. Pinunasan niya ang kanyang itim na Chuck Taylor's at pinatuyo saglit sa ilalim ng araw.

Sinuot ni Ara ang earphones niya habang patawid sa terminal. On-repeat pa ang mga kanta ni Bruno Mars sa kaniyang Spotify.

"Mabuti na ang sigurado," bulong niya sa kaniyang sarili.

Lumabas si Ara sa kanilang gate. Ito ang una nilang pagkikita mula nang nagsimula ang mga restriksyon dahil sa Tanaw na niya ang mga jeep na bumabaybay sa lugar na kaniyang puumiiral na quarantine sa panahon ng puntahan. COVID-19.

Masayang kinuha ni Ara ang termos habang binubuhos niya ang mainit na tubig sa kaniyang tsaa.

Tumingin sa kaliwa't kanan si Ara habang sumasabay sa kanta. "Hhmmmmmmm....Today my life begins..."

"Ganda ng panahon," ani ni Ara. Mata- Sa isang hagip, isang rumaragasang pos kumain ng agahan, dali-dali siyang bus ang umararo sa payat na katawan tumungo sa banyo para maligo. ng dalaga. Nagbihis siya, sinuot ang relo, hinanda ang bag, nilagyan ng laman ang bote ng alkohol at sinabit sa kaniyang bag. Kumuha rin muna siya ng isang basong

Faceshield Guhit ni: Leslie Libo-on

COVAX COVAX COVAX COVAXCOVAX COVAX COVAXCOVAX

PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE

COVAX

FLASH FICTION PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE

COVAX Guhit ni: Van Ellis Villanueva Mercado

FLASH FICTION

Matinding takot ang hatid ng pandemyang ito sa akin. Mayamaya akong binabagabag ng mga katanungang "paano kung maging positibo ako?", "anong papasukin kong trabaho para 'di magutom?" at "may maipapakain pa ba ako sa pamilya ko?"

ay tila nawala noong nasa vaccination hub na ako.

Parang nilalamon ng pagkamanhid ang sikmura ko. Bakit ganito? Anong pakiramdam 'to? Sa sobrang dami ng iniisip ko parang pumikit lang ako at sa muling pagdilat ay umaga na.

Pero ang atensiyon ng lahat ay naagaw ng isang sigaw mula sa 'di kalayuan.

Nalaglag yata sa jeep lahat ng tapang na baon ko. Kahit nangangatog ang tuhod ay pinilit kong humakbang. Mula tuhod ay gumagapang pataas ang pagkamanhid na Ilang gabi na rin akong hindi makatulog nararamdaman ko pero nandito na rin kakaisip kung hanggang kailan ako naman ako at wala nang atrasan ‘to. Pinakita puwedeng buhayin ng mga mumunting ko ang aking QR code at isang valid ID. Mula ayuda galing sa barangay. Lumalaki na rin sa pasukan ng mall, tumakbo ako para ang utang na loob namin sa napakabait mauna sa pila. Masyado yata akong naming kapitbahay. Sampung kilong bigas at napaaga sapagkat kaunti pa lang ang nasa mga de lata ang nakuha namin sa kanilang pila. community pantry kaya't ilang araw ding Bawat pag-usad ng pila ay tila ba may namenos sa aming iisipin.Ilang sentimyento pa raramdaman akong kakaiba. Naiihi ako. ang tumatakbo sa aking isipan nang bigla Parang may lalabas mula sa kaibuturan ng kong marinig ang balita sa radyo. tiyan ko. Hinihika yata ako? Puwede pa bang Sa wakas! umuwi? Dapat pala sinama ko si Mama. Parang mawawala na ako sa ulirat nang May bakuna nang makakapagpabalik ng tapikin ako ng isang nars sabay tinuro na lahat sa normal. Sisiguraduhin kong kasama pumuwesto sa isang upuan. ako sa mga mauunang makapagpaturok. Mabilis ang naging pag-usad ng panahon. Heto na! Ako na! Pinanganak akong Kinabukasan na agad ang schedule ko ng matapang kaya kakayanin ko 'to. bakuna. Kinakargahan na ng doktor ang syringe na Nakakakaba. Parang gusto kong pigilan ang gagamitin sa akin. Parang biglang bumagal oras. Bakit ganon? Dati, gustong-gusto kong ang tagpo. Kuminang mula sa liwanag ng magpabakuna para bumalik na sa normal ilaw ang dulo ng karayom. Nakita ko itong ang lahat pero ngayon, parang gusto kong nagbuga ng likido at dahan-dahang umatras. tinutumbok ang kaliwang balikat ko.

This is it! Wala nang atrasan 'to! Turukan na! Lahat ng lakas ng loob na inipon ko sa bahay

"Braaains... !" Sigawan mula sa mga nakapila at liwanag ng ilaw mula sa mall ang huli kong naalala bago ako tuluyang lamunin ng takot at 29 himatayin.

PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE

COVAX Kuha ni: Howard Christian G. Marquez

FLASH FICTION PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE

COVAX Kuha ni: Howard Christian G. Marquez

Throwback on the Cloud Nine Guhit ni: Paul John Mendez

FLASH FICTION

PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE

FLASH FICTION

by Jessa D. Laguisma

PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE

"The deadly new coronavirus disease or COVID-19 is persistently spreading throughout the world which poses threat to the people," the news anchor said in his report. "The pandemic is a risk to the well-being of our healthcare professionals due to the continuous increase of COVID19 cases. And recent studies also revealed that higher levels of depression, anxiety, and psychological distress affects their mental health." he continued.

relationship values with my dearest friends. And when I arrive home after my long busy day at school, I will immediately change my clothes and wear a white sando, blue shorts, and my favorite blackish-red flip-flop slippers that offer the best cozy feeling ever.

weaved into the very fabric of our being. However, because of COVID-19, we can no longer express without being a bit cautious. Indeed, the global health crisis caused hardships to the entire world.

And finally, when I returned to trance, Aunt Fely instantaneMy friends Lito, Ameer, and ously calls me, as she will give Bea gave their best shot while me my phone. She is currently we are playing "tumbang staying with me temporarily as preso". They chose a good no one is here to accompany "pamato". They hardly practice me right now. for their aim and study the As my aunt hands the phone to While peeking outside near the movement of each opponent. me, a mirthless smile and window in my room, I noticed We hear everyone's sorrowful eyes covered her that it is a grey afternoon with exasperated breaths and soft face. a dull sky — a sign of sighs. There was a jolt of threatening rain. Suddenly, I excitement that filled the way. "Hello Mom, Dad!" reminisce about the time when As the sun dipped down below "How are you there at the the disease is not yet widethe horizon, it is the last gasp of hospital?" spread. beauty before the death of the "Stay healthy, okay?", my voice day. We left every corner of I can still remember the sounds sad but I tried to hide it. the street with unending scenarios in my mind. Dad sits laughter and history. "I can't wait the day to be with comfortably at the table while you." I added. reading the newspaper in his But that it is a year ago. Those right hand and sipping coffee are the things that we usually My Mom and Dad are frontlinon the left side. While mom do before the pandemic. In ers. They're some of the most prepares our breakfast — fried the present, everybody is wear- versatile doctors in their hospirice, fried eggs, whole wheat ing a face mask and face tals and I admire them for their bread, and hot chocolate for shield and practice social disprofessionalism, hard work, and me. tancing. But, we all know that commitment during this chalfrom our first day on Earth, we lenging time. "John, our meal is ready," mom are hardwired to touch, hold, called. I sat down to fill my They are serving people amid and kiss others. Be it the soft empty stomach with the feast the COVID-19 pandemic. embrace of a mother and a in front of me. They're among the heroes who child, the caress of a new emerged from this crisis and risk I felt satiety and contentment love's hand brushing against their health just to serve their after that heavy breakfast. your own, or an utterly patients. Then, I took a shower and wore delightful hug from a friend afmy uniform. I'm cheerful day-by ter a difficult day, our need for "Don't worry baby, 36 -day when I came to school we will be home skin-to-skin contact is one because I learn new facts and soon." Mom said.

Unlike the first two rooms, the last one is never closed. Anyone can see what’s inside but only a few individuals are willing to enter. Perhaps, for a reason. The room should be left open so the light continues to shine in the wide gap. A gentle reminder

A S What awaits you through the open doors is a wide reassuring smile. A source of motivation to the ever-changing time. There lies a tired learner deprived of its ways to learn yet never faltered by continuing to hold a pen. Next is a person holding a calendar. It remembers the story of every date, which might be the source of its strength today. The last person also holds a pen. Yet, the pen is inkless — a hallow barrel with nothing inside.

If the pen is a sword, it already fought many battles. Sharp as it should be. It continued to cut through adversities, only to be shattered by an invisible enemy.

SANAYSAY

ESSAY PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE

Iba na talaga ang Panahon Ngayon Kuha nina: Wayne D. Gerodias at Byron Peter P. Nocon

ESSAY

Iba na Talaga ang Panahon Ngayon

ni Karina Tesaluna

nero 2020. Tinawanan ko lang noon ang virus na ito, maging ang lahat ng mga bagay na konektado rito. Pagsusuot ng face mask, paghuhugas ng kamay, alkohol at napakarami pang iba. Hindi rin ako naniwala na posibleng magkaroon ng lockdown sa ating bansa tulad ng sa Tsina. Sa sobrang kulit at kawalang disiplina ba naman ng ilang Pinoy tila naging imposible tuloy ang pagpirmi sa loob ng bahay.

ramdaman. Ito ba ang naging resulta ng aking kahilingan?

Pebrero 2020. Napakaraming gawain ang tumambad sa akin. Nagkaroon ako ng trabaho sa aming munisipyo kada Lunes, Miyerkules at Biyernes. Malapit na ang final examination at naghahanda na rin ako para sa nalalapit na University Games ng aming eskwelahan. Puno na ang listahan ng aking mga gawain para sa buwan na ito.

Hunyo 2020. Naglabasan na ang galit ng mga tao. Walang trabaho, walang pera at walang pagkain. Hindi mo naman mapipigilan ang magulang na gumawa ng paraan para may maihain sa anak. Ilan sa mga natanggap naming tulong ay sardinas, noodles at dalawang kilong bigas. Ang anim na libo at limandaang piso mula sa gobyerno ay nahawakan ko rin sa wakas.

Marso 2020. Nakakapagod. Minsan, sa kalagitnaan ng aking mga gawin, hiniling ko sa Diyos na magkaroon man lang ng kahit isang linggong pahinga ang buong mundo, o kung puwede pang humirit ng kahit isang buwan. At tila mahal na mahal ako ni Lord dahil dininig niya ang aking dasal. Abril 2020. Tumigil ang lahat. Katahimikan ang umalingawngaw ang sa dating napakaingay na kalsada ng Cavite. Ang dyip na hari ng kalsada ay nawalan ng pag-asa. Ang siksikang palengke ay nawalan ng buhay. Isang araw habang ako'y marahang naglalakad sa overpass ng Bacoor, kilabot ang aking na-

Mayo 2020. Naubos ko na ang lahat ng labahan. Nailigpit ko na ang lahat ng dapat iligpit sa bahay. Natapos ko na ang lahat nang dapat asikasuhin. Muli akong humiling, "Lord okay na po ako. Nakapagpahinga na po ako nang matagal. Puwede niyo na po bang ibalik ang lahat sa normal?"

Hulyo 2020. Ayaw ko ng ganito. Ang dalawang libo ay pinambili namin ng paunang makakain. Ang apat na libo ay buong tapang ko namang sinugal para sa aming negosyong kakanin. Mahigpit ang seguridad ngunit mahigpit din ang aming pangangailangan. Ang hirap umasa sa walang kasiguraduhan kung kaya't ako na ang gumawa ng paraan. Agosto 2020. Sa ilang buwang walang laman ang wallet ni Papa, natuto kaming magtipid ng sobra. Bawat kita ay hinuhulog ko sa aking alkansiya.

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Oktubre 2020. Lahat ay nakaabang sa mga mangyayari. Tapos na ba? Matatapos na ba? Matatapos pa ba? Naging mas maluwag ang seguridad kasabay nang paglitaw ng panibagong uri or variant ng virus. Parami nang parami ngunit paluwag nang paluwag. Nobyembre 2020. Napakaraming patakaran na inilalabas ngunit hindi naman nasusunod ng tama. Napakaganda ng mga panukala ngunit walang malinaw na aksiyon. Lahat ay naghahanap nang masisisi.

Disyembre 2020. Ang huling buwan ng taon. Ang pinakatahimik na paskong aking naranasan. Hindi dahil sa handa at musikang naririnig ko ngunit dahil sa kawalan ng presensiya ng mga mahal ko. Isang taon na sumubok sa katatagan ng bawat Pilipino. Hindi natin inasahan pero nandito na tayo sa katotohanang malayo sa katotohanan. Sa kabila nang paghihirap na ating naranasan, tingnan na lang natin sa mas positibong paraan. Sa tingin ko, bukod sa kalinisan ay maililigtas tayo ng disiplina, kaayusan at pananalig sa Diyos na makapangyarihan da-

ESSAY PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE

MASID Guhit ni: Rafaela Janna Babaran

ESSAY

Lam mo ba kung gaano kabigat ang pakiramdam na tila wala kang magawa para sa isang tao? Tipong hanggang tingin ka na lang mula sa malayo. Iyon bang gusto mong ilahad ang iyong mga kamay at iahon siya sa pagkakalunod ngunit hindi mo batid kung paano. Iyon bang gusto mo siyang hatakin at yapakin nang sa gayon ay hindi niya maramdaman kung gaano kapait ang mundo. Marahil, ganiyan ang nararamdaman ng karamihan lalo na ngayong nasa gitna tayo ng unos na walang kasiguraduhan kung kailan matatapos. Ilang linggo na ang nakararaan nang umalingawngaw ang konsepto ng pamayanang paminggalan mula sa Maginhawa tungo sa iba't ibang sulok ng bansa. Konseptong umani ng samot-saring reaksiyon at komento. Salitang tumapos sa isang libo't isang duda ng bawat isa at bumuwag sa mentalidad na ang tanging magagawa ng mga ordinaryong mamamayan ay magkubli sa isang sulok. Patunay na kaya nating ihakbang ang ating mga paa upang maihatid ang mga munting regalo para sa masa. Sariwa pa sa aking alalala kung gaano nakakatunaw ng puso ang mga perpektong ngiti ng mga taong pumipila sa inisyatibong ito. Nabatid kong maliit man o malaking handog, ito ay nagdudulot ng labis na kasiyahan sa mga nasa laylayan. Nanunubig ang aking mga mata tuwing naaalala ko ang mga kuwento ng pagbibigay sa kabila ng kagipitan. Hanggang ngayon, sagad sa buto ang aking pagtataka kung ano ang mga naging motibasyon ng mga nag-organisa at nagtayo ng mga pamayanang paminggalan. Ito ba'y ang pagiging likas na matulungin? Pagmamahal para sa kapwa? Pagiging makabayan? Sa maraming pagkakataon, ang pagiging mapagmasid ay ginagamit natin bilang Isang istratehiya upang maprotektahan ang ating mga sarili laban sa panganib ngunit hindi maipagkakailang sa sitwasyong kinalalagyan natin ngayon, ito pa ang naging punong dahilan kung bakit nagising ang mga natutulog na damdamin ng mamamayan. Isama pa ang pagiging maunawain sa nakalulunos na kalagayan ng mga naghihikahos ang naging susi upang pairalin ang ating isip, sundin ang isinisigaw ng ating puso at paganahin ang ating tinig.

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Ngunit, ang pagmamagandang loob ay tila binabahiran at minamarkahan pa ng karumihan. Ang mga istorya ng pagtutulungan ay minamasama pa ng iilan. Ang mga malilinis na hangarin ay gustong wakasan ng mga indibidwal na hindi magampanan ang kanilang mga sinumpaang tungkulin. Ang mga papuri sanang natatanggap ng mga may bukal na kalooban ay napalitan ng panglalait at kung ano-ano pang negatibong komento. Ganito ba ang kaakibat ng pagkakaroon ng ginintuang puso? Ganito ba ang nararapat na kapalit ng pagod at sakripisyo ng ilan nating kababayan upang makapagpaabot ng tulong sa mga nangangailangan? Nakakadurog ng pagkatao sa tuwing maririnig mong kapwa mo Pilipino'y naghihilahan pababa. Sa labang hindi natin alam kung sino ang kaaway, hindi sapat ang pagiging mapagmatyag. Hindi sapat ang utak lang. Hindi sapat ang puso lang. Dapat pinapagana natin ang lahat ng mga ito sa balanseng paraan upang maunawaan ang tunay na kailangan ng bawat isa sa gitna ng krisis. Kahit kailan hindi magiging sapat ang nakita lang ng iyong mga mata at narinig lang ng iyong mga tainga, mas angkop na pagsabayin itong dalawa. Kaya ikaw, kung nagmamasid ka lang mula sa gilid at kung natatakot kang lumabas sa sulok na iyong pinagkukublihan, igala mo ang iyong paningin dahil baka may isang taong naghihintay lamang na siya ay iyong sagipin. Magmasid ka't baka may nangangailangan ng iyong mahigpit na yakap sa nakakapagod na mundo. Baka may taong nangangailangan ng iyong mga bisig sapagkat siya ay nasa sitwasyong nakalulunod. Tandaan mo, lahat tayo ay may magagawa, may maiaambag at may maidudulot npagbabago sa kabila ng pandemyang ito. Kailangan lang nating buksan ang ating mga mata, talasan ang ating pandinig at paganahin ang ating damdamin.

MASID Sulat ni: Rickie Cathleen Javier Kuha ni: Nastassja Ariele Braceros

ESSAY

Ang COVID-19, Internet at Ako ni Rodolfo Dacleson II

asipag, aktibo at puno ng sigla. Iyan ang tatlong salita na makapaglalarawan sa aking pagkakakilanlan bilang isang mag-aaral bago sumapit ang pandemya. Ang pagkatuto mula sa aking kapwa kamag-aral at mga guro ay nakapagbibigay sa akin ng bagong kaalaman at karunungan. Nang wala pang community quarantines, paborito ko man o hindi ang asignaturang itinuturo ay nabibigyan ko ang bawat isa ng sapat na oras at panahon nang sa gayon ay maunawaan ko ang bawat leksiyon na inihahain sa pisara. Gayunpaman, binago ng COVID-19 ang aking pananaw sa edukasyon at tila habang tumatagal ay unti-unti na akong nilalamon ng kawalang pag-asa at pagkaligaw sa landas na aking tinatahak.

PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE

Simula't sapul, bago pa lang magsimula ang bagong moda ng pag-aaral ay alam ko nang haharapin ko ang isang unos — ang mabagal at hindi stable na internet connection sa aming lugar. Noong una, hindi ko ito masyadong iniinda sapagkat lagi kong ipinapaalala sa aking sarili na hindi ako dapat sumuko. Unang-una, may mga sarili akong pangarap na nais na tuparin. Ikalawa, may pamilya akong dapat na tustusan at tulungan sa hinaharap. Ikatlo at huli, nangako ako kay Inang Bayan na gaano man kahirap ang maging daan tungo sa hinahangad na pagbabago para sa kaniya ay susuungin ko. Maprinsipyo akong tao kaya naman kahit papaano ay nagawa kong maitulak ang aking sarili.

Madali kang mawawalan ng hininga kung patuloy kang magpupumiglas kahit alam mo sa sarili mong nalalapit na ang oras mo.

Tila napag-iwanan ako ng panahon. Panahon kung kailan ang makabagong teknolohiya lamang ang bukod-tanging masasandalan ng sangkatauhan upang makapagpatuloy sa kanikanilang mga adhikain at layunin sa buhay. Ang sakit sa dibdib ngunit ni isang luha ay hindi tumulo sa aking mata na kung tutuusin ay mas ginawang miserable ang aking naging karanasan. Bakit? Naniniwala pa rin kasi ako kahit na alam kong nawala na ako sa ulirat. Sa kabilang banda, mas tumindi ang pagnanais ko na makawala sa hawlang nilikha ng pandemya upang paamuhin ang mga nagtatangkang ito'y Tinanggap ko ang hamon ng edukasyon sa hamunin at pabagsakin. Marahil, wala akong panahon ng pandemya nang buong puso sa sapat na karapatan upang magreklamo dahil pag-aakalang ang pagiging matibay at matahindi lang naman ako ang nakararanas ng gantag ay sapat na upang patuloy na makibaka sa ito ngunit ito ang istorya ko. Nakakainis sapagkat nagbabagong daloy ng mundo. Ngunit, mali hindi ko dapat sinasabi ang mga salitang ito ako. Isa akong malaking hangal. Isang diyablo ngunit hindi ko magawa pang maitago ang na handa kang lamunin at hilahin papuntang matagal ko nang kinimkim sa aking sarili. Nais kadiliman ang usad-pagong na internet. Nakakong mailabas ang lahat ng nadarama kahit sa katakot, nakakakaba at nakasusulasok ang mga ganitong paraan lamang. naging danas ko sa una hanggang ikalawang semestre. Hindi nawala ang mga araw na hindi Patawad aking mga guro. Patawad aking mga ako nag-alala sa klaseng papasukan ko dahil kapwa mag-aaral. Patawad sa mga pangarap maaaring mawala bigla ang koneksiyon — ang na tila hindi ko na maaabot pa. Patawad sa inmaituturing kong huling patak ng pag-asa na yong lahat sapagkat alam ko sa sarili kong hindi nalalabi sa aking puso. ako naging makatuwiran na estudyante sa gitna ng pandemya na lahat ay sumusubok tumindig Ibang antas ng pagkabalisa at pagkagalit ang sa sarili nilang mga paa. Hindi ako marapat na aking nadarama sa tuwing naantala ang aking tawaging Iskolar ng Bayan. Ako ay hamak na pagkatuto dahil hindi maayos ang signal o hindi nilalang na bumitiw na sa pakikipaglaban. naman kaya ay kung maubusan na ng data Isinusugal ko na ang lahat sa kapalaran. Ayaw ang aming prepaid Wi-fi. Nakapanlulumo at nako nang kumilos, gusto ko na lang na mahiga sa puno ng galit ang puso ko. Hindi ko mawari kung kama at hintayin ang magiging resulta ng aking bakit kailangan kong sapitin ang ganitong uri ng kahinaan. Samakatuwid, kung kailan kinamarhinalisasyon sa edukasyon na ani ng aking kailangan maging matapang ako at sumuong mga magulang at iba pang ina at ama ay ang sa daluyong ay saka ako tinangay ng agos. siyang susi sa tagumpay. Akala ko ba ay COVID-19, nasa iyo ang huling halakarapatan itong maituturing ngunit bakit ngakhak. Ikaw ang nagwagi sa labang 48 yon, pabor na lamang ito sa iilang nakaaangat. ito dahil ako ay iyong nagapi. Bukod pa rito, ang pagpupumilit ay tila pagsakal sa sarili.

Ang COVID-19: Internet at ako Guhit ni: Janna Babaran

ESSAY PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE

The Toll of Online Learning Artwork by: Aldrian Barias

ESSAY

The Toll of Online Learning by Arlene Elaine Balbuena s

the COVID-19 cases continue to rise in the Philippines, higher education adapts to teaching and learning at a distance, the workload and learning load that comes with implementing a new delivery model are taking a toll on both higher and lower education. Although some students including me, thrive on online learning, the toll of the virus, loneliness, increased workloads, and other related effects are becoming more prevalent among many staff and faculty members.

In addition, I became conscious of my lack of enthusiasm for my job. I used to have a hunger for writing as a Journalism student, and I am still excited about learning to acquire knowledge and trust. Yet, it felt as though I had lost interest in something I liked because I felt as though I am just doing my tasks to keep up with the week's schedule. It took a toll on me — triggering burnouts and emotional breakdowns when doing an activity.

In the campus, friends, resident advisors, and other campus personnel may observe such students informally every day. However, such students are often invisible to their peers, advisers, and others while they are online. They go about their business unnoticed. The COVID-19 crisis is taking a heavy toll, with much of it going unnoticed. Although, according to Dr Joan Rifareal of the Philippine Psychiatric Association, stress is a normal part of life while adding that this situation is also positive in some aspects. She said that in some cases, students may see distance learning as a source of stress yet it enables them to do better in their studies.

We also make mistakes by separating mental and physical health. These two are inextricaMy experience as a student in bly linked. Physical health can the online learning environment deteriorate because of the has been undeniably negative. mental and emotional stress The interplay of psychological that the faculty and students and social influences during this may experience. Anxiety and distance learning triggered sev- depression can reduce immuniHowever, Rifareal acknowleral mental health problems ty, making people more susedged that some of her clients that cannot be excluded due ceptible to diseases including talk about feeling burnt out and to the challenges of the updat- the common cold. anxious with their classes’ worked education system. If I could The majority of students are un- load, and struggling with the compare my performance, beder duress. For many people, new system due to the lack of ing physically present in a classthe strain starts with their eyes. resources and confidence of room allows me to focus on my Squinting at improperly adjustmaking it through the week work only since I can ask quesed computer screens in subop- without forgetting an activity. tions whenever I need to, and it timal ambient lighting induces From my standpoint, in this time is, in my view, is more powerful eye strain that can have longof isolation, reaching out is than online learning. As opterm implications. To prevent more important than ever. This posed to studying in a real glare and reflections, ophthaltime provides us with the perclassroom, online courses bemologists recommend taking 20 fect opportunity to be mindful came more challenging be-minute breaks from screen and communicate to our cause you don't have the same reading and changing room friends via text, call, or hands-on experience, and the lighting. Messenger. amount of stress and anxiety 53 In most cases, no one else is that every student go through keeping an eye on the when they forgot to hand-in students. their activities.

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The Toll of Online Learning Photo Taken by: Howard Christian G. Marquez & Byron Peter Nocon

SLIP T H R

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Artwork by: Leslie Ann M. Libo-on

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Slip Through the Cracks by Ayella Russell Cremat

e are moving forward, don’t we? It has been one year of struggling against the COVID-19 virus. Although, the good thing is a

lot of us grew differently. Through all the letdowns and silent cries, we learned to smile and carry our battles with an overarching faith. But somehow, we tend to ask our inner selves, how long it will take?

Generally, we are all stuck and if you are a person like me with little patience, you might sometimes feel downhearted by your shortcomings. Well, I am not an expert life coach, but here is the thing, there is a power in our weakness and there are things that we just need to be good at for us to experience at least a bit of change. When we experienced pain, did we ever ask ourselves, why am I feeling this pain? Introspection is a way of assessing our consciousness when we are experiencing hurdles in life or simply, understanding our feelings.

Inner pain is hard to subdue but sulking ourselves in it will not bring any change. Thus, a self-assessment for instance like writing down your thoughts or simply listening to your inner voice is a good way to buckle up and move forward. As we are done assessing our deep-seated pain, it is now time for us to take steps. What are the goals in life that we want to achieve? Moreover, how are we going to nail it bit by bit? If we want to move forward, setting an everyday goal can make a good change.

PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE

I know it is easier said than done, as we feel demotivated at some points, as we mistakenly defined what motivation is. Motivation does not just lies in our minds. Rather, it comes from a habit of doing things that will keep us motivated. For instance, one of the things that motivate me is listening to my paragon of mindfulness, Joyce Pring-Trivinio. By listening to her podcast, I can divert my mind into learning instead of sulking in my misery. I am not saying that everyone should do the same thing, but the pivot of this message is to know how to realign ourselves to our goals after a series of breakdowns.

We need to understand that change in everything is sweet, yet it requires a lot of hardship. It may sound cliché, but that's the thing we sometimes forget when we're at the losing end. Living is a lifelong journey and the journey through living has never been easy, especially if you are fighting alone. Perhaps, some people would disagree with this idea, but ideally, no one is designed to live a completely independent life. We are designed to help others grow in a way that we can do. Therefore, reaching out to like-minded people can help us traverse life accordingly. We need someone or a person who has the same goals and is willing to communicate his or her ideas to us.

Heading on to our vision may seem like a long journey. Sometimes, we lose patience for not having it already. We feel burnout and experience unstable sleep. It is the struggle that we go through when we feel slipping through the cracks or left behind by the system. However, it does not matter how long it will take or how many times should we cry from dissatisfaction. We cannot adjust the time or manipulate the inherently uncertain things, but moving forward is possible if we have a proclivity for doing things that we want to pursue. So how long it will take? No one knows.

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Slip Through the Cracks Photo Taken by: Andrea Trina B. Boqueo

ESSAY

by Aileen Joeimee Castillo When the COVID-19 pandemic started, there are many changes such as wearing face masks and face shields that we didn't follow sometimes to most of the time, and if before we could still hug and kiss our friends, now, we are strictly enforced. People should follow social distancing to prevent disease transmission. When the strictest quarantine status — enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) — began, it forced businesses to close and laid off employees to comply with the protocols implemented by the government. Many Filipinos set up their business and work for the delivery industry such as Grab Food, Food Panda, and Lalamove to make a living and survive.

During this pandemic in the Philippines, people got accustomed to or mad with the ever-changing quarantine status from ECQ to GCQ and from relaxed measures to the right restrictions. Quarantine differ from each province, city, or town considering the risk of getting infected. In some areas, residents of all ages can go outside while business and transportation are 100 percent operational. Others may not allow people to roam around.

es pon ses

PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE

In my experiences during the community quarantine. To be honest it is confusing for me because every month the government announces. The more reasons for me to be anxious. Like when will this pandemic end?

Moreover, when we can step on the stage for the Graduation? When we will have time to have a bond with my friends? It became a difficult time for me as this season makes me anxious and overthink. There are so many questions running in my head like "what if I didn't finish my studies?", "what if I don't get a stable job", and "what should I do when experiencing anxiety and all? Personally, I always pray and take time to calm myself.

TIMES OF PANDEMIC The same goes for others who need to deal with their fears, insecurity, and isolation during lockdowns. Although, the pandemic also became a room for new experiences and private and personal reflections about the essentials in life and the nature of humanity. We take note of the changes in our attitude and behavior, and how they could or not affect people's well-being.

This time changed our daily life and how we interact. From face-to-face to virtual to prevent spreading the virus and also, the pandemic affects our mental health — making us anxious, depressed, and at worst, suicidal — as we stay at home longer. People struggling with family problems can't escape from loneliness as forced by the situation. Yet, we must continue living and should have a positive mindset amid the ongoing crisis.

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CONTRIBUTORS

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FLARE

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CONTRIBUTORS CORNER

RODOLFO D. DACLESON II “Tinta ng aking pluma'y alay sa masa.“

Editor-in-Chief

I'm an incoming fourth-year BA Journalism student at the Cavite State University-Imus Campus. A sports fanatic who loves browsing Facebook and the Internet for videos worth my time. I indulge myself with coffee and enjoy eating a bowl of pares.

Writing is my voice. It is a weapon I'm proud to wield and use for the people. I believe that there is nothing stronger than the voice of the masses, and yeah, that's my favorite Latin maxim—vox populi, vox dei.

EL REX AFRICA "Sa bawat dahong iyong madadaanan, laging mayroong malapit na halaman."

Sports Editor

I am a 21-year old literary writer. I started writing literary pieces during my junior high school years through

Wattpad. While pursuing this passion, I entered the school publication and became its literary editor, and continued my journey until college. I also love Korean culture to the point that I studied the language throughout the quarantine period. Lastly, watching live volleyball matches is always on my bucket list.

GERMAR J. ERFE “Every failure will teach you how to dougie.”

Staff Writer

Staff Writer AYELLA RUSSELL CREMAT "No one is sure so why feelin’ pressure?"

I’m just a 20-year old girl who left my father’s house to make my own life and guess what? Now, I’m homeless. Well, to give you a little of my background, I came from an unwell household but still grateful enough because I learned to dream and make plans that sometimes gave me dissapointments. Perhaps, that’s the reason why I love writing. I’m a writer not because I’m a good writer or eloquent with words or having vague ideas. I think it’s because I have dreams that make me cry at night and if I don’t write them out, they could turn into sadness or fear that creeps me out.

Hi! I’m Gee from Las Veygaz. Joke! HAHAHA! Currently, I’m a Journalism student of CvSU-Imus Campus and I enjoy my writing craft as a staff writer of The Flare. UwU *sniffles* HAHAHAHA! I am aspiring to be a news correspondent soon. Yez! Amen. HAHAHAHA! Before I end this narrative, I would like to conclude this with a saying that always believes in God because God is a Woman by Ariana Grande. Tnx.

PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE

JULIENNE EUNICE G. IRINCO

APRIL ANN C. FLORANO

“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.”

“Without God, I am nothing.”

Staff Writer Call me Ann. Call me Ann-Ann. But my favorite is Tibangs.

Staff Writer

I love interpreting the lyrics of songs and so the music itself, for it expresses the extreme feeling of a person through a series of words. I also love talking about life but the great thing I am privileged to do is to write a piece for people. I’m April Ann C. Florano, proud of being me.

RICKIE CATHLEEN JAVIER “We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.”

Staff Writer

— Maya Angelou

JAYLLA SHEY M. PEREZ “If you cannot follow rules, make one.” Staff Writer

I am Julienne Eunice, born on the 22nd day of September 2002 in the province of Northern Samar. My hobbies are writing and cooking. I am taking up Bachelor of Science in Psychology. I am a dreamer who wants to be a mental advocate, an author, a songwriter, and a poet. It gives me a euphoric feeling when I am constructing letters and turning them into words that create melodies. I had this thought that if I can’t travel the world, my stories, poems, and songs will fly for me.

I, Rickie Cathleen Javier, 19 years old, and is presently pursuing Bachelor of Arts in Journalism. For the past few years, I’ve been busy striving to establish my wings in the field I picked. I adore inking the page of the papers with my imaginative mind and vibrant words. As I volunteered in several organizations outside of the institution, serving the young and women became one of my top goals. One of my aspirations is to work as a radio announcer in the Philippines to deliver the truth to my fellow Filipinos while also providing the lightest of vibes in broad daylight. But, if I can soar like a butterfly, I would land in Greece and become the influential writer I’ve always wanted to be. Spending thousands of breaths breathing the ocean waves, enjoying the ageless culture, and embracing the aesthetics.

Her existence was void not until she started writing for people, and it led her to this thing they called life. Time will surely pass by and she’s unaware of what’s ahead of her, yet she’ll keep on writing because that’s what makes her happy. That she is me. I’m currently in my third year taking Bachelor of Science in Business Management Major in Human Resources. Sending lots of love. Writing for you — always.

CONTRIBUTORS CORNER

I am Teresa May Sarzata taking up Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in English. I am quite ambitious. I have a lot of dreams however I realized the reality of life and it changed me. From now on, I just want to be a cat. Meow!

TERESA MAY SARZATA “Whenever you are stress, eat rice”

I believe in saying that whenever you are stressed, eat rice because carbs would help you in dealing with your problems. Thank you!

Staff Writer

Karina Tesaluna, walang asawa. Isinilang sa Northern Samar. Lumaki sa San Mateo Rizal. Umusbong ang pangarap sa Marikina City. Kasalukuyang nakatira sa Lungsod ng Bacoor. Nag-aaral sa Imus. Nagsisimba sa Dasmarinas. Higit isang dekada na sa Cavite pero hindi pa rin nakalalanghap ng hangin ng Tagaytay.

KARINA TESALUNA “The best time to start is now!”

Staff Writer

DANIELLE NICOLLE TOLENTINO “Anyone can write their own stories.”

I started writing stories in 2015 as a hobby. I tried to be a professional writer by applying to some publishing companies and became a contributor once. It is fun but things got a little

Staff Writer

Does anybody here know their purpose in life? Well, I'm aware that I'm young yet I already have a vision of where I want to be in the future. Hi! My name is Jessa, your quiet, reserved, and thoughtful girl from the department of cuties, BS Office Administration. And someday, I see myself as a successful content writer and business owner. My passion revolves around reading and writing. This is the reason why I see myself in the creative field. I want to pursue my dreams within creatives because I’ve always promised myself that I owe it to make my future self happy and proud.

JESSA D. LAGUISMA “Due tomorrow, do tomorrow.”

Staff Writer

PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE

News Editor

Feature Editor MARIA TERESA P. LEVISTE “No seen, no article.”

I am now a graduating student of BS Psychology and the current editor of the Feature section of The Flare. What I am going to share about myself carrying out the things that can mold me into a competent one is my hobby. I see it as a leisure pursuit to relieve my everyday boredom. Aside from writing, I also have an interest in creating visual content, singing, playing the electric keyboard, and entertaining myself with role-playing games. I keep on taking turns with these recreational activities to stimulate my mind and enliven my skills. Yet, through joining this publication, I met talented people and learned so much from them. Not just to refresh my writing skills but also to socialize and find a pleasant company in them. The Flare indeed helped me to be brave in voicing out my thoughts, to not be silent, and to disturb the comfortable ones. If you are going to ask me where you should involve yourself, I think it is best to contribute our efforts to the organization that has its expanded purpose to the community.

GABRIEL LOUIZ A. PAREDES “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dream.”

Studying Bachelor of Art in Journalism at the Cavite State University- Imus Campus, I am the one and only Gabriel Louiz A. Paredes. I am an aspiring creative writer and an art enthusiast of various forms. A true Volleyball and Ice Skating fanatic and an introverted dreamer who seeks peacefulness of the soul. A jack of all trades, master of none is what I pursue yet I truly believe having a complete mastery of at least one subject shouldn’t be harmful as well. All dreams are hard to reach. But, it doesn’t mean that it isn’t plausible and everyone should know that.

MARIE CLAIRE PAGASARTONGA “Learn from the past and work hard for the future.”

Staff Writer

Staff Writer AILEEN JOEIMEE L. CASTILLO "Learn to let go of things that might hurt you.” I am Aileen Joeimee L. Castillo, 23 years old, born on May 9, 1998, in the historical city of Imus, Cavite. I am the eldest and only girl of three siblings. My parents are Joerella L. Castillo and Mark Anthony B. Castillo. My mother works as a staff in the Imus government office while my father is a company driver. I value ambition, generosity, and thoughtfulness. I'm a determined and vigorous individual yet pleasantly calm. I encourage fighting for what you desire and believe while doing it for God because nothing great comes easy without Him. I am currently completing my Bachelor's degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management at the Cavite State University-Imus Campus. A full-time student motivated by my love for learning and succeeding, as I strive to become an outstanding and successful woman in today’s society. I chose HRM as my college program because I want to have my restaurant and become a famous executive chef not only in the Philippines but in the world. I also want to have our own house so that we will no longer pay rent every month. Besides, I want to bring my family to Australia or New Zealand and live there permanently.

A blooming flower who once begged for the love and attention of a specific butterfly. But now, I've changed. I am your one of a kind writer who speaks mostly from experiences and glows from the darkness of my previous traumas. I've already come to my senses and I can now share and let my readers know a glimpse of my life whenever they read a particular work of mine. I'm still struggling in life but keeps on fighting. This beautiful flower keeps on inspiring others to appreciate kindness and be grateful for how beautiful the garden is. This is Marie Claire Pagasartonga, one of your staff writers.

CONTRIBUTORS CORNER

JHAMELLE M. SION “Problema lang yan, si Jhamelle ako.”

Hi! I’m Jhamelle Sion, the Production Editor of the SPU-The Flare A.Y. 2020-2021. Hindi ko alam paano ko ipakikilala sarili ko kaya i-chat niyo na lang ako sa Facebook.

Production Editor

HOWARD CHRISTIAN G. MARQUEZ "Kung may tiyaga ka, congrats! Ako kasi ay wala.”

I love taking pictures but I don’t have the courage to post them. Just appreciating every moment.

Photo Editor

Photojournalist JULIE ANN B. ANIRE “If you are just going to die, die with full of memories not with dreams.”

BYRON PETER P. NOCON “Naniniwala ako sa kasabihang masaya ang mabuhay ngunit mas masaya sa kabilang buhay. Thank you!”

Photojournalist

My name is Byron Peter Nocon, son of Mr and Mrs. Nocon. A brother to my siblings, both inside and outside. I’m also a fur daddy to my two children, Summer and Scarlet. I’ve been a photojournalist for The Flare for almost two years as of now. Obviously, I am having fun and dedicated to every task given to me. I’m also currently taking Bachelor of Arts in Journalism. Currently, I am a third-year and I’m working hard to finish my studies to finally get my college degree for my future businesses and jobs. Also, I want to earn money to pursue the music career that I always wanted.

I’m Julie Ann B. Anire, 20 years old, currently residing in General Trias Cavite and I am taking up Bachelor of Science in Business Management Major in Finance at Cavite State University-Imus Campus. I have a heart for music as well as in nature, perhaps, one of the reasons why I fell in love with photography is because watching those majestic sceneries are sometimes once in a blue moon for me so I might as well capture the moment to remember and treasure its beauty.

PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE CONTRIBUTORS CORNER PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE

NASTASSJA ARIELE C. BRACEROS

WAYNE D. GERODIAS “Mamuhay nang may prinsipyo at paninindigan.”

“Be the person you want to have in your life.“

Photojournalist Everyone believes that they know themselves. They either write a whole paragraph or describe themselves in just three words. Lucky for me, I’m somewhere between. My name is Nastassja and I am as unique as my given name. I sometimes consider myself an expert on interior design solely based on the hours I spent on The Sims since I was nine.

Photojournalist Buong junior high school ko, hindi ako sumali sa pub dahil weirdo ang tingin ng mga kaklase ko sa mga kasali sa mga org. Noong nag-senior high school ako, narealize kong weirdo rin ako at nahilig nang magsulat at syempre sa iba pang gawain ng mga nasa pub. Pero di pa rin ako sumali kaya sabi ko sa college na lang. Nitong college naman, hindi ako sumali sa The Flare until nag-third year ako salamat sa responsibilidad ko sa ROTC. Ngayon di na gaanong ka-weirdo ang lahat at mas confident na akong sumali salamat sa mga kasama kong laging binibilog ang ulo ko tuwing magpopost ako ng mga kuha ko. Ngayon, heto na ako at pinagpapasa ng ilalagay para sa contributor’s profile ng isa naming project sa pub.

ANDREA TRINA B.BOQUEO

RAFAELA JANNA BABARAN

"Quality over quantity."

“Kung kaya ng iba, ipagawa mo sa kanila, pero kung di din pala nila kaya, edi bahala ka”

Photojournalist Andie, a journalism student at Cavite State University Imus - Campus. It is common knowledge that I am a focused person and I have a one-track mind. Yes, I am not perfect and I have never claimed to be. However, I know what I want out of life and I do it wholeheartedly, all-or-nothing.

Chief Cartoonist

I’m currently the Chief Cartoonist of The Flare and being a part of this student publication is a gift because I’ve got to know a lot of people that share the same interest with me especially my fellow cartoonists. I joined the Flare way back in 2019 because I always dreamed about becoming one of those inspiring journalists, someone that creates newspapers and syempre yung ipaglalaban ang tama para sa mga kapwa estudyante. In terms of academics, seryosong tao ako pag dating sa pag-aaral. I want to be organized when it comes to studying when exams are coming, passing requirements, and other stuff. But of course, may time na tatamarin ka dahil nga pandemic. Di maiiwasan ng mga estudyanteng mawalan ng gana. Even though school is tough, just remember to never give up. And lastly, my life outside school, I’m an artist and together with my art group which is Art Lovers PH Cavite Chapter, we do exhibits to show the skills and artworks of every aspiring artist here in the Philippines.

CONTRIBUTORS CORNER

RAE NIÑO B. PELAGIA

Cartoonist

“Hindi pera ang pinakamahalagang bagay sa mundo. Kundi ang pag-ibig. Buti na lang mapagmahal ako sa pera.”

I like spending time in nature and capture all the wonderful moments of beauty with my camera. Along with this, I also like making arts since I was in elementary because I believe it gives me joy and allows me to open new ideas and experiences. I am an artistic person because I prefer to work in unstructured environments where I may express my creativity and imagination. Moreover, I have a sense of humor and compassion for the people close to my heart because my love for them is the noblest.

VAN ELLIS VILLANUEVA MERCADO

"No matter the economy of the jungle, the lion never eat grass."

Cartoonist A slow-moving lion eats meat. I believe that slow progress leads us to success. I am a 19-year-old self-taught artist at Art Lovers Philippines, and currently taking Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Cavite State University- Imus Campus. I am also a former editorial cartoonist of our Journalism Collaboration Team when I was in Senior High School. I can do scripts, poems, arts, music, and lead too. Also, I’m a nature and environmental advocate. Art is my passion and I always tell myself that I am an art, a masterpiece that lives forever.

LESLIE ANN M. LIBO-ON

ALDRIAN V. BARIAS “If you don’t take risks, you can’t create a future.”

Cartoonist Cartoonist

Hi! I am Aldrian V. Barias, an 18-year-old cartoonist. I am currently in my third year, taking Bachelor of Science in Information Technology at Cavite State University Imus Campus. My hobbies are video editing, programming, reading Manga & Manhwa, illustrating and animating anime characters. I took part as a cartoonist for “The Flare” because I want to improve my skills and to gain a plenty of experience in a student publication workspace.

PAUL JOHN MENDEZ

“I do believe in sayings.” Cartoonist

“Before due pala nagpapasa, akala ko pag "missing" na.”

I’m just a small-town girl that makes very one comfortable in my presence. I'm currently taking BS psychology and a reserve officer from ROTC. I am an outspoken person outside of my comfort zone, yet I still keep my personal life for myself and to whom I trust. I have a lot of interest in life and di naman halata sa position ko pero I do love art. But aside from that, I also love coffee while overthinking and hobby ko rin magbasa ng nutritional facts kapag bored.

You can call me PJ, 20, Philippines! I love eating long and tasty spaghetti. I love bright and neutral colors, and I love cuddlessss. This is PJ again, ang cute na cartoonist ng The Flare.

PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE

NICOLE ANN N. TEOTICO “Kapag sinabi kong ayoko na magpuyat, sabi ko lang ‘yon.”

Nicole Teotico ang ngalan, cute size kung titingnan ngunit ang puso’t isipa’y pangmalakasan. Bente anyos sa kasalukuyan, lungsod ng Imus ang sinilangan. Katotohanan at kahusayan ang nais kamtan kaya’t Kolehiyo ng pamamahayag ang pinaglalaanan. Sa tulong ng Diyos, palaging pumapasa, sa awa ng Diyos, hindi nawawalan ng panlasa. Nasanay nang mag-isa pero kung may darating man, kerry namang umasa.

Layout Artist

KEZIAH JEMIMAH S. CARREON “You are nothing but a number of days, and whenever a day passes away, a part of you passes away.” -Hasan Al-Basri

Layout Artist

JESSABELL O. ENCARNACION

I'm Keziah Jemimah S. Carreon, you can simply call me by my first name, Keziah. Twenty years of age, born on August 9, 2001. I'm taking up Bachelor of Science in Psychology. I am a Layout Artist in The Flare.

“I do believe in the supremacy of 11:59”

I believe in the saying of Hasan Al-Basri, "you are nothing but a number of days, and whenever a day passes away, a part of you passes away." That's why I cherish every second of my life.

Layout Artist

Hi everyone! I am Jessabell Encarnacion, a 21year-old layout artist on this publication, a reserve officer from ROTC, and currently taking a Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in English. There is no really interesting topic about me. I am just a student who still does not know what I want to do in my layf. The type of person that always overthink and a noisy human being. I always join some organizations that I think might help me to recognize and challenge mahself if I can do things other than those things/skills that I have now. I love learning new things while I am procrastinating and believing that, “Living is a choice so be responsible for your action, take accountability for the results, and lastly, take the ownership of your mistakes.” And I thank you!

111 NINA GABRIELLE O. VELUNTA

Layout Artist

“Designing is a form of art. Designs are esthétique. Design can be simple, which it makes complexity.”

We’ve all heard the cliché that authors or writers have much “confidence” in themselves. That is why there’s a section in every book to talk about yourself as an author. Relating to that, this literary folio was made by devoted people who contributed their full extent of knowledge and skills, and they are also encouraged to describe a little bit of themselves. This particular person is making use of her creativity as a way of presenting to people what art truly means. She is a college student and has an interest in poetry, books, minimalist, gathering collectable items, cats, calligraphy, and graphic designing. Her interests motivated her to join an organization where she can continue to grow as an individual.

PANDAMA’T PUNA THE FLARE

CONTRIBUTORS CORNER

Associate Editor-in-Chief for Internal Affairs

KLAEFORD CRISPIN "Tayo’y sinilang upang buhayin, binuhay upang muling kitilin."

Ako si Klaeford Crispin, bilanggo ng madilim na kasaysayan. Isang bingi na tagapakinig sa sigaw ng pipeng nakaraan. Pilit na isinusulat sa likod ng mga libro ang sikreto ng lipunan. Kabadong nagtatanghal sa entablado ng katotohanan. Sa giyera ng puso't isipan, sa gulo ng mundo at kalahatan. Hayaang ipahayag ang

Associate Editor-in-Chief for External Affairs

sarili gamit ang salitang simbolo ng kalayaan. Gerero ng oposisyon para sa katarungan. Humahakbang, nakikibaka para sa kapakanan ng bayan. Nabubuhay sa

CHARMAINE MAE ESGUERRA

pagitan ng talinhaga at tugma. Taga-habi ng letra at tagapag-dugtong ng bawat salita. Napupungaw sa pagdaplis ng itim na tinta at pagsinta sa pluma. Sa huli’y

“Memento mori, memento vivere”

umaasang makakabuo ng isang pambihirang likha, at magpapatuloy pa.

I am a coffee enthusiast and home-brewer who loves to write tragic literature. I eat animes for breakfast and crime documentaries for dinner. Lunch might be spent browsing a combination of different senseful and funny social media content. I don’t like sleeping. But, I love dark chocolates and pastries. And I live alone with a mystic cat.

THE FLARE EDITORIAL BOARD (A.Y 2020-2021) EXECUTIVE EDITORS Rodolfo Dacleson II Editor-In-Chief Klaeford Crispin Associate Editor-in-Chief for Internal Affairs Charmaine Mae Esguerra Associate Editor-in-Chief for External Affairs Ruth Raima Servida Managing Editor Angela Advincula Business and Circulation Manager

SECTION EDITORS Gabriel Louiz Paredes News Editor El Rex Africa Sports Editor Maria Teresa Leviste Feature Editor Carl Andrei Alquero Literary Editor

CREATIVE EDITORS Jhamelle Sion Production Editor: Howard Christian Marquez Photo Editor Rafaela Janna Babaran Cartoons and Comics Editor

Janel Evan Akim SPU Adviser

THE FLARE MEMBERS (A.Y 2020-2021) STAFF WRITERS Rodolfo D. Dacleson II Klaeford C. Crispin Germar J. Erfe Ruth Raima B. Servida Angela M. Advincula Gabriel Louiz A. Paredes Maria Teresa P. Leviste Carl Andrei C. Alquero El Rex F. Africa April Ann C. Florano Jaylla Shey Marcelo Perez Arlene Elaine G. Balbuena Teresa May M. Sarzata Karina Tesaluna Marie Claire Pagasartonga Ayella R. Cremat Danielle Nicolle S. Tolentino Aileen Joeimee L. Castillo Jessa D. Laguisma Rickie Cathleen Javier Julienne Eunice G. Irinco

PHOTOJOURNALISTS

CARTOONISTS

LAYOUT ARTISTS

Rafaela Janna S. Babaran Van Ellis V. Mercado Rae Niño B. Pelagia Aldrian V. Barias Leslie Ann M. Libo-on Paul John Mendez

Nicole Ann Teotico Nina Gabrielle O. Velunta Jessabell O. Encarnacion Keziah Jemimah S. Carreon

Charmaine Mae Esguerra Jhamelle M. Sion Julie Ann B. Anire Andrea Trina B. Boqueo Nastassja Ariele C. Braceros Wayne D. Gerodias Howard Christian G. Marquez Byron Peter P. Nocon

Photo by: Reuters (2021, January 29)

AFP/David L. M., Cabico G. (2020, August 7). Philippines' COVID19 caseload hits 122,754 with 2,168 deaths. Philstar.com. Retrieved August 27, 2021, from https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2020/08/07/2033578/ philippines-covid-19-caseload-hits-122754-2168-deaths

credits

Reuters (2021, January 29), Dancel R. (2021, March 14). Four Covid19 variants, including a local strain, now spreading in the Philippines. Thestar.com. Retrieved August 27, 2021, from https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplusnews/2021/03/14/4-covid-19-variants-including-a-localstrain-now-spreading-in-the-philippines

THE FLA RE

2021