THE
Builders of Builders of Excellence: Excellence:
Mapua 3rd PH Top
School in 2025
Mapua 3rd PH Top School in 2025
THE World University Rankings THE World University Rankings
Emmenuelle Richlande
For the third consecutive year, the consecutive year, Mapúa University cemented its Mapúa University cemented its solid reputation as one of the reputation as one of the Philippines’ premier and top- Philippines’ premier and topperforming schools in the world performing schools the world based on the Times Higher on the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Education (THE) World University Rankings for 2025 Rankings for 2025.
As the centennial year is inching As the centennial year is inching closer, Mapúa is rewarded Mapúa is rewarded another milestone as the another milestone as the institution secured a position in secured position in the THE World University the THE World University Rankings for 2025, ranking for 2025, ranking 1501+ alongside De La Salle 1501+ alongside De La Salle University, the University of Santo University, the University of Santo Tomas, and Mindanao State Tomas, and Mindanao State University Iligan Institute of University Iligan Institute of Technology Mapúa has been Technology Mapúa has been consistent with its ranking being consistent with its ranking being the third-top Philippine school for the third-top Philippine for three consecutive years three consecutive years
The continuous pursuit of teaching continuous pursuit of teaching quality, research environment, quality, research environment, research quality, industry quality, industry engagement, and international engagement, and international
Mapúa University counted down the Mapúa University counted down the days until its 100th founding days until its 100th founding anniversary on January 25, 2025 anniversary on January 25, 2025
A Glimpse of the Future: A Glimpse of the Future:
As part of its centennial celebration, As part of its centennial celebration, a monumental and symbolic event, a monumental and symbolic event, the Time Capsule Laying Ceremony, the Time Capsule Laying Ceremony, took place last January 23 The took last January 23 The activity, designed to bridge the activity, designed to bridge the legacy of Mapúa’s illustrious past legacy of Mapúa’s illustrious past with the promise of a brighter with the promise of a brighter future, unfolded like the turning of a future, unfolded like the turning of a gilded page in a century-old book gilded in a century-old book
Ma’am Eliza Torres, Chair of the
Ma’am Eliza Torres, Chair of the Department of Liberal Arts (DLA), Department of Liberal Arts (DLA), led the audience in a moving led the audience in a moving centennial prayer Standing before centennial prayer Standing before a sea of attentive faces and the a sea of attentive faces and the solemn gaze of Mapúa’s statues solemn of Mapúa’s statues and plaques, the prayer became a and plaques, the prayer became a beacon of gratitude beacon of gratitude
Dr Dodjie S Maestrecampo, Dr Dodjie S Maestrecampo, President and CEO of Mapúa President and CEO of Mapúa University, delivered a stirring University, delivered a stirring welcome message from the podium welcome message from the podium framed by the iconic arches of the framed by the iconic arches of the Intramuros Quadrangle. He Intramuros Quadrangle He underscored the significance of the underscored the significance of the centennial milestone, likening the centennial milestone, likening the time capsule to a treasure chest of time capsule to a treasure chest of memories and dreams Dr memories and dreams Dr Maestrecampo’s words painted a Maestrecampo’s words painted a vivid picture of a bridge strong and vivid of a bridge strong and enduring connecting Mapúa’s enduring connecting Mapúa’s storied past with its boundless future storied past its boundless future
The ceremony concluded with the The ceremony concluded with the resonant singing of the Mapúa resonant singing of the Mapúa Hymn As the capsule lies in its Hymn As the capsule lies its resting place, nestled in the heart of resting place, nestled in the heart of Intramuros, it becomes a time- Intramuros, it becomes a timetraveling messenger, embodying the traveling messenger, embodying the dreams and aspirations of an dreams and aspirations of an institution that has transformed institution that has transformed countless lives over a century countless lives over a century
Angel Wayne Garceron
PH Peso joins all-time-low trend in Asia amid US dollar surges
Marcus Benedict Austria
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine peso is expected to attain a P59:$1 ratio in 2025, joining Asian currencies as President-elect Donald Trump sets to implement protectionist policies and higher tariffs on goods
Aris Dacanay, an economist at HSBC Global Research has stated that “Most probably the [depreciation] risks are toward the second quarter of 2025 But we have to put it into context ”
However, compared to other Asian countries, Dacanay is more
optimistic, saying that “the Philippines will depreciateto a lesser extent and I do think it comes at the second quarter when the favorable seasonality actually diminishes ”
Dacanay points to the Philippines’ primary exportation of services rather than goods
The US president-elect Donald Trump is expected to take office on January 20, 2025
PBBM achieves 2024 inflation rate target
Lawrence Isaac Giron
MANILA, Philippines – Last MANILA, Philippines – Last Tuesday, the National Economic Tuesday, the National and Development Authority and Development Authority announced that the Philippines announced that Philippines had met the year ’ s target inflation had met the ’ s target inflation rate, attaining a 3 2% year-to- rate, attaining a 3 2% year-todate average However, date average However, December 2024 reports a 2 9% December 2024 reports a 2 9% inflation rate, an increase from rate, an increase the previous month’s 2 5% rate the previous month’s 2 5% rate
On the other hand, SM On the other hand, SM Investments economist Dan Roces Investments economist Dan Roces raises concerns over the inflation raises over inflation rate speeding up starting rate speeding up starting September noting a possible September noting possible “turning point” for the worse, “turning point” for the worse, noting that the “month on month noting the “month on month acceleration of 0 6 percent is the acceleration of 0 6 percent is the highest since July” highest since July”
“[This] actually suggest building “[This] actually suggest building momentum with price pressure, ” momentum price pressure, ” he stated he stated
Emmenuelle Richlander Panol MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The Armed Forces of the Philippines Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday, June 17, (AFP) on Monday, June 17, 2024, confirmed the aggression 2024, confirmed the aggression of the Chinese Coast Guard of the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) obstructing the AFP’s (CCG) obstructing the AFP’s humanitarian rotation and humanitarian rotation and resupply operations at BRP Sierra resupply operations at BRP Sierra Madre located in Ayungin Shoal, Madre located in Ayungin Shoal, Philippines Philippines
The CCG reportedly acts The CCG reportedly acts coercively, aggressively, and coercively, aggressively, and barbarically, resulting in severe barbarically, in severe damage to AFP vessels and the damage to AFP vessels and the safety of the Filipino navy, who safety of the Filipino who are involved in the resupply are involved in the resupply mission at the disputed shoal in mission at the shoal in the West Philippine Sea The the West Philippine Sea The faceoff injured a Filipino Navy faceoff injured a Filipino Navy personnel, losing a finger by the personnel, losing a finger the ramming of the Chinese vessels to ramming of the Chinese vessels to the Philippine vessels the Philippine vessels
China claims to be part of their China claims to be part of their territory based on the fictional territory on the fictional nine-dash line nine-dash line
China etched a claim to 90% of China etched a claim to 90% of the South China Sea as its the South China Sea as its territory, meaning that all of territory, meaning that all of the ocean, islands, and reefs the ocean, islands, and reefs belong to China and that China belong China and China has sovereign rights The Ayungin has rights The Ayungin Shoal, called Ren’ai Reef by Shoal, called Ren’ai Reef by China, is a submerged reef in the China, submerged reef in the Spratly Islands in the West Spratly Islands in the West Philippines Sea located 105 Philippines Sea located 105 nautical miles west of Palawan, nautical miles west of Palawan, within the country’s 200-mile within the country’s 200-mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ), exclusive economic zone (EEZ), and is part of its shelf and and is part of its shelf and ssovereignty overeignty
NEDA Secretary Arsenio M Secretary Arsenio M Balisacan points to the Balisacan points to the government being “largely government being “largely successful” with attempts to successful” with attempts to temper inflation from its previous from its previous 6 0% rate in 2023 He is 6 0% rate in 2023 He is optimistic regarding future optimistic regarding future developments in 2025 in 2025
The Development Budget The Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) Coordination Committee (DBCC) announced its decision to announced its decision to maintain the annual inflation maintain the annual inflation target of 2 0% to 4 0% until target of 2 0% 4 0% until 2028, last year in early 2028, last in early December December
China’s aggression China’s aggression in Ayungin in Ayungin ‘coercive, aggressive, barbaric’
Earlier, the Philippine Coast
Earlier, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) released a Guard (PCG) released a statement saying that the statement saying the confrontation should not be seen confrontation should not be seen as an armed attack but rather as as an armed attack but rather as a misunderstanding of China’s a misunderstanding of China’s intentions This is despite eight intentions This is despite eight Philippine Navy personnel Philippine Navy personnel reportedly sustaining injuries reportedly sustaining injuries
Commodore Jay Tarriela, Commodore Jay Tarriela, spokesperson of PCG for the spokesperson of PCG for the West Philippine Sea, described West Sea, described that while Chinese coast guard that while Chinese coast guard personnel were seen swinging personnel were seen swinging and raising knives, an axe, and and knives, an axe, and other weapons in the footage other weapons in footage recorded by the AFP, they aimed t recorded the AFP, they aimed t obstruct a Philippine resupply obstruct a Philippine resupply mission at Ayungin Shoal, which mission at Ayungin Shoal, which
The AFP on Friday, June 21, The AFP on Friday, June 21, 2024, confirmed the presence of 2024, confirmed the presence of four People’s Liberation Army four People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels scattered Navy (PLAN) vessels scattered through the Balabac Strait through the Balabac Strait between Palawan and Borneo between Palawan and Borneo
Early this month, the Philippine Early month, the Philippine Navy said that nearly 150 Navy said that nearly 150 Chinese ships were found in the Chinese ships were found in the maritime waters in the West maritime waters in the West Philippine Sea. The Department of Philippine Sea The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Foreign Affairs (DFA) spokesperson, Assistant Secretary spokesperson, Assistant Secretary Maria Teresita Daza, discusses Maria Teresita Daza, discusses that the Philippines is getting that the Philippines is getting international support from at least international support at least 14 countries amid the recent 14 countries amid the recent aggression and harassment of the aggression and harassment of the CCG CCG
Photo Credits: Armed Forces of Photo Credits: Armed Forces of the Philippines the Philippines
‘coercive, aggressive,
Today’s Carolinian displaced by USC Admin
Ma Francesca Ceniza
Students, supporters, and Students, supporters, and members of Today’s Carolinian members of Today’s Carolinian from the University of San Carlos from the University of Carlos (USC) held a protest rally on (USC) held a protest rally January 21 in front of the USC January 21 in front of the USC Talamban Campus in response to Talamban Campus response an eviction notice from the an eviction notice from the university university
administration’s lack of respect administration’s lack of respect towards student journalism,’ USC student journalism,’ USC Carolinian Political Science Carolinian Political Science Society (CPSS) stated in their post Society (CPSS) stated in their post denouncing the removal denouncing the removal
Netizens show solidarity and show solidarity and support through social media support through social media
In 2019, Today’s Carolinian lost
In 2019, Today’s Carolinian lost its funding for publishing articles its funding regarding the university’s plan to regarding the university’s plan to impose another tuition fee impose another tuition increase This, combined with the increase This, combined with the shutting down of the Today’s shutting down of the Today’s Carolinian office at the USC Carolinian office at the USC Talamban Campus ‘displayed the Talamban Campus ‘displayed the
‘To see multiplying numbers in our ‘To see multiplying numbers in our mobilizations and witness the and witness bravery of progressive students in bravery of progressive students in clamoring for our rights are proof clamoring for our rights are proof that the youth will ceaselessly and that the youth will and tirelessly fight for the pro-student tirelessly fight for the pro-student future they deserve ’ says Hans future they deserve ’ Hans Noel Balila with the movement’s Noel Balila with the movement’s official hashtags: #DefendTC official hashtags: #DefendSSC #DefendSSC
Guo Held in contempt amid Senate POGO investigation
MANILA, PHILIPPINES Former Bamban Mayor Alice Guo was cited in contempt for the second time by the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality on Monday, September 9, 2024
The committee’s action follows accusations that Guo gave false and evasive testimony regarding her identity during a probe into her alleged involvement with illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) in Tarlac
Senator Risa Hontiveros, chair of the committee, initiated the contempt charge after Guo repeatedly denied being Chinese national Guo Hua Ping, despite evidence from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) showing that their fingerprints match
“This is a blatant defiance of our constitutional power of inquiry,” Hontiveros said, stressing the gravity of Guo’s actions
Guo, currently detained at the Philippine National Police (PNP) Custodial Center, insists she is a Filipino born in Tarlac However,
DOH: No need for PH lockdown amid HMPV concerns
MANILA, Philippines On January 8, 2025, the Department of Health (DOH) assured the public that there is no need for lockdowns or border closures in response to the rise of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in parts of China.
Reports of a surge in HMPV infections among young people in northern China, alongside an increase in rhinovirus cases, which cause the common cold, have raised concerns
Last year, the Philippines reported 284 HMPV cases “There is no need to close borders or worry about immediate spread,”
Domingo reassured “HMPV is a seasonal flu Let us continue with our daily lives and stay safe ”
The Senate committee’s findings challenge this claim, intensifying the scrutiny surrounding her case
This latest contempt citation follows a prior one in July when Guo was cited for failing to appear at Senate hearings, leading to her arrest Senators expressed their determination to hold Guo accountable until she fully cooperates and provides truthful testimony
Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino stated that the Senate would seek continued custody of Guo to ensure her compliance
“You will remain in the custody of the Senate until the conclusion of this inquiry or until you acknowledge this body’s authority,” Hontiveros added.
“This is a blatant defiance of our constitutional power of inquiry!”
- Senator Riza Hontiveros on Alice Guo’s False Testimony
However, DOH spokesperson Albert Domingo reassured the public that while China has reported an uptick in cases, the numbers are still lower than in 2023
“HMPV is a seasonal infection that occurs during colder months,” Domingo explained
“It primarily affects the upper and lower respiratory tract, causing symptoms like cough, fever, and nasal congestion, which are similar to other viral infections.”
He clarified in an interview on TeleRadyo Serbisyo that HMPV, unlike COVID-19, is not a new virus First identified in 2001 by Dutch researchers, HMPV has been sporadically detected since then
The investigation into Guo’s alleged activities highlights concerns over potential impacts on local governance and law enforcement in the Philippines The outcome may impact local laws and set new international standards
Photo Credits: Joseph B Vidal/OSP
Trump withdraws USA from WHO
January 20, 2025 Trump withdraws U S from World Health Organization, undermining the nation’s standing as a global health leader; making it harder to fight the next pandemic
President Trump finally “sealed the deal” on W H O as he withdrew the United States through an executive order issued about eight hours after he took the oath of office
He cited a string of reasons for the withdrawal, giving emphasis to the W H O ’ s “mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic ”
Their “failure to adopt urgently needed reforms” and demand of “unfairly onerous payments” from the United States pushed the president to take such measures, complaining that China pays less
Public health experts warn Trump that this haul would make it harder for the country to fight the next pandemic and erode the nation’s standing as a global health leader
Photo Credits: Anna Schvets
Abigail Aurora Aperocho
Aryanna Shae Tang
Eleora Noma
Ma Francesca Ceniza
COMELECtopolaspiran dismantleprematurecampaignpo
Emmenuelle Richlander Panol
MANILA, PHILIPPINES In a press interview on January 7, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Chairperson, George Garcia, urged May 2025 midterm election aspirants to take down propaganda or face disqualification ahead of the start of the campaigning period
Public billboards and posters and several commercial endorsements have gone scattered, albeit legal loopholes on premature campaigning make these propagandas legitimate
Premature campaigning is considered an election offense cited in Section 80 of the Omnibus Election Code Section 246 of the Omnibus Election Code, any person found guilty of any election offense shall be punished with imprisonment of a year up to six years and a possible disqualification in public office
However, under Republic Act No 8436 or the Automated Election System Act of 1998, a person is considered a candidate only upon the start of the campaign period Any activities that occurred before the campaign period shall not be considered an election offense as they are yet to be an official candidate
The case of Lanot vs COMELEC led to discussions of amending
the Omnibus Election Co address premature campa more efficiently The Repub No 9369 or the E Automation Law of 200 2007 Amendment to the Re Act No 8436 nullifies pre campaigning as an el offense
Under Section 3 of the Om Election Code Candidate given 90 days before the the election for national elections and 45 days for local elections as campaign periods and shall not include the day before and the day of the election
The 2025 National and Local Elections (NLE) campaign periods will start on February 11 for national bets and March 28 for local bets With loopholes under the country's election laws, the COMELEC Chair expresses dismay over premature campaigning
Chaiman George Garcia admits, “Ang katotohanan talaga ay walang premature campaigning sa ating mga batas ngayon kapag automated elections ” He urges aspirants, “Dahan-dahan lang, medyo hinay-hinay”, as election campaigning period approaches
‘It is our compatriot’s rights’ –PH House Lawmakers on INC Peace Rally
House Quad Chair
Danilo Fernandez expressed his support for the INC’s National Peace Rally last Monday.
He stated that it is our countrymen’s right to assert their beliefs towards our country’s future; therefore, they have his full support.
During an interview, he also discussed the committee’s remaining hearings to make way for the upcoming elections
Meanwhile, House Deputy Minority Leader and ACT Teacher Party List Representative France
Castro proclaimed that while she fully respects the rights of the people, she hopes that the rally does not aim to prevent VP Sara Duterte from taking accountability
“I hope that this rally is not a cover for the VP’s impeachment wherein the country seeks justice Even if it’s our VP Sara Duterte, she should take accountability for using the country’s funds in vain ” said Castro
Labor Group petitions Quiboloy removal from 2025 Senatorial Race
MANILA, Philippines Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) bombards the Commission on Elections for including detained preacher Apollo Quiboloy in the 2025 senatorial race.
The group, led by Attorney Sonny Matula, filed a 19-page petition before the Supreme Court on January 15, arguing that the poll body exhibited “ a double standard in the application of procedural rules,” which was strictly enforced in other cases but applied with “leniency” toward Quiboloy
Quiboloy’s camp failed to comply to a five-day deadline to file an answer after being served notice by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) on Nov 4, 2024
His response was submitted late by more than a month – exactly on Dec 10, 2024 This pushed the labor group to urge the high court to declare Quiboloy a nuisance candidate The group ’ s efforts was dismissed when they first filed a petition last December
The preacher, who was hospitalized due to pneumonia, was recently allowed to be transferred to a public hospital after Pasig City court allowed his treatment as confirmed by the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP)
Eagle News PH
THE CARDINAL PRINT
Photo Credits: The Manila Times
Photo Credits: Newsfeed ph
Ma Francesca Ceniza
Ma Francesca Ceniza
Photo Credits:
ArtificialCreatives
When it comes to the perspective of creatives, it’s a knee-jerk reaction to be against anything with A I plastered onto it This is completely justifiable, companies all over the globe have been replacing their employees for a basically free alternative, leaving even less work than before to artists and writers
However, A I isn’t just a prompt generator, there are other aspects of it that can assist the aforementioned rather than hinder, it simply comes down to what line cannot be crossed
Prominently relevant to this discussion is journalism, whom the writers of which hold steadfast the bastion of truth and justice, and so a debate needs to be held if they should turn their shields and spears towards Artificial Intelligence, or set them down After all, It is not as if technology hasn’t been encroaching into every existing sector for the purpose of efficiency, factory workers protested just the same when they lost their jobs to machinery And in parallel to automation, writers can use A I to expedite the process by making it take care of the more tedious tasks, such as scanning for errors, or using speech-to-text for recording and noting information To see what truly makes this situation different, one needs to take a step back
There are even A I tools that can respond and debate, at this rate a human may not even be needed for interviews
The news however isn’t just regurgitating information, it’s adding nuance, context, and thought into the scenario It’s about transparency, human connection, knowing the person behind the article or paper isn’t just doing it because they should but also because they must, and trusting that
Board
of
Editors and Department Heads
A.Y. 2024-2025
Angel Mikaela A Pontanares - Editor in Chief & Radio Broadcasting Head Anchor (English) | Samantha Danielli M Rivera - Associate Editor | Katie B Lagazon - Managing Editor | Marc Leon N Dedicatoria - Assistant Managing Editor & Radio Broadcasting Co-Anchor (English) | Emmenuelle Richlander C PanolNews Editor | Angel Wayne V GarceronFeatures Editor | Marcus Benedict S AustriaScience and Technology Editor | Alexander G Luistro - Sports Editor | Joshua C PatalinghugLiterary Editor |
The problem is that AI itself isn’t a fully developed technology, it makes errors, gorges on false information, and is more just a really fast processor that can string things together via pattern recognition, it doesn’t retain the knowledge to use as a basis later, and doesn’t understand the connection between them It paints an image without creating meaning behind it and it spits out a prompt without understanding its fundamentals This is all fine and dandy at a juvenile level, grade school to high school maybe, but with something as important as journalism this flaw is a heavy and grave one
The usage of A I will always beg the question if human writers are even needed if all they do is re-iterate the situation to the public, A I can more quickly gather information and dish it out, t can be fed writing patterns and produce perfectly formatted work in an instant
Admittedly many news sites are biased, willing to spread misinformation and fear mongering to the general public But there still exists the chance to turn over a new leaf, for empathy and humanity to reach them, a chance that turns nil if corporations succeed in pushing real people away from creative outlets, inch by inch, millimeter by millimeter
On the other hand, just like with any technology, the more it is used the more research can be put into its betterment, and here exists the illusion of choice Amidst this arguing and reasoning comes the additional reminder that AI is, in its current state, only a tool Higher ups are well aware that A I produces low quality content, and are content with leaving it at that if their numbers continue to go up Right now, there is better A I technology being created for those numbers to go even higher
Just like earlier, take another step back, then a few more times for good measure
Consider this, with automation the workers did the same hours but produced much more product, and with that the logical conclusion is they should have gotten paid more, but they didn’t
In fact, they got paid even less, this technology should have lessened workloads, given more free time, but instead the exact opposite happened A I is mostly free, and yet no prices have gone down, the economy is still struggling, and when it pushes even more, the people will see how much more devastating things can get
It has been pointed out before that A I would be more suitable for non-creative jobs - a very real possibility that it’s currently just targeting the weakest link
Besides oversaturation, computer science graduates are partially out of a job due to A I programming, who’s to say that accounting graduates aren’t next when A I can just catalogue the finances and give generated suggestions based on the data No laws have been established for A I , and with how things are going it’s not very likely any will be established soon Attention needs to be drawn to the men behind the curtains Considering the pros and cons of A I means nothing if the people do not stay united, if they crack under their attempts to cause division, and hold the line in this metaphorical battlefield As useful as A I is it can also very well be the last straw before the system eats itself in its insatiable desire for more
The problem is that AI itself isn’t fully - developed
Ergo, every bit of ground that those in power take to misuse A.I. for capitalistic gain is not just a loss to the creatives but a loss for humanity itself.
| Herc Ceejay
(Filipino) | Rhond Gabrielle D Piso - Radio Broadcasting Executive Producer (English) | Jathleen Iffie M Rogacion - TV Broadcasting Executive Producer (English) | Jose Alfredo C Villanueva - TV Broadcasting Co-Producer (English) | Norenz Beau Y Reyes - TV
(Filipino) | Freynan Martino B Alcantara, Gabrielle B Bayaua, Rheane Allyza C Castro, Alyanah Ashley M Cruz, Clement Elijah P Dela Cruz, Alyssa Louisse Haber, Juan Martin NE Jaucian, Marr Lorenz B Lim, Ma Erica P Martinez, Sabell Eunice S Negapatan, Klaris A Salvador, Nichole T Satuito, Cassey S TiuReporters (English) | Jomar U Apao, Jarred Lyner C Dayrit, Prince Alexandrov I Dumlao, Alexandra Ryanne B Gopez, Neil Brandon D Vildad - Reporters (Filipino) | Gian Gabriel O Ana, Abigail Aurora A Aperocho, Janez B Colorico, Charlotte Mae T Macabuag, Eleora Lizea R Noma, Chloe O Ricohermoso, Natalie C Salva, Aryanna Shae M Tang, Rrisa Mheiy S Tengco - Correspondents | Isaac Grace P Ragudo, Louis Albert DoyolaSenior Photojournalists | Patrice Lyka E Alba, Andrei John P Bolo, Daphne Shaine N Dimamay, Andrew H Marcelo, Mary Gabrielle N Claudio - Photojournalists | Aizeya Rhamielle T Alhambra, Zoe Sinead E Detira, Mary Joselle R Javier, Jannah Mae D Manuel, Kevin Yancy C Yangco - Multimedia Specialists | Aaron Angela P Cribe, Mary Claire Reyes, Elijah Jose O Laurora, Jeph A Luzentales - Cartoonists | Lawrence Isaac A Giron - Web Developer | Maria Viktoria S Ignacio - Mobile Journalist | Inst John Thimoty A Romero, LPT & Inst Wilrose C Cipriano, LPT - Campus Paper Advisers
Nagsusulat Nag-uulat Nagmumulat.
Cartoon by: Mary Claire Reyes
Angel Mikaela A Pontanares Editor in Chief
The “student“ in student involvement is silent
Students who do not crave change choose to settle in situations they are content with and used to Students who pursue change see problems waiting to be fixed and dream of better states for them and their communities
In other words, some students can choose to turn a blind eye to issues; while others strive for change to go beyond the issues Some prefer a stagnant present; while others make a move for a fulfilling future
Corruption and injustices seen and felt all over the country, but some choose to ignore and others fight against Unfairness and inequality evident in schools and workplaces, but some tolerate and others contend against
Students complain but in different ways; some complain with mindless cruel words that will pierce through and others complain with actions that will inflict change; some whisper
The point of it all The point of it all
Samantha Galang Mapúa SHS Student Council President
Mapúa University was never my dream school, but the life that Mapúa gave me was my childhood dream Here, I found my true purpose in service, challenged my limits, and grew into the person I had always dreamed of becoming
Every achievement, every milestone, and every moment of growth I experienced at Mapúa was for her for the sacrifices she made and the dreams she had for me Despite everything, I have always seen the beauty of trying
under their breaths hoping for those in power to hear, while others break the sound barriers by addressing them face to face
Meddling in affairs that will indubitably affect everyone is not a handful when it is all for a better tomorrow
In this regard, complaints can only go so far not even that far into a better future Complaints become aimless words shot at nothing when it is not directed at anything. This begs the question whether students can complain about concerns they know nothing about
It is the lack of involvement that strikes students clueless Involvement gives clarity, context and not confusion Involvement encourages students to take chances, change, and not complaints
However, involvement calls for initiative, responsibility, and awareness qualities hidden and drowned in silence Silence and ignorance prevent students from involving themselves in the motion of change
Life will not be carefree as students and their peers continue to face and tolerate issues that can be resolved Meddling in affairs that will indubitably affect everyone is not a handful when it is all for a better tomorrow
With this, there must be a change not only in the mindset of the student body, but to those who wish to involve themselves in serving the student body A system that immerses itself with its constituents is one that requires healthy discourse– and this cannot happen if there is not even a single person who is willing to spark conversations and turn them into action.
As the first daughter, granddaughter, and niece in my family, I have always felt the weight of responsibility. I was expected to set the standard, to excel, and to be strong no matter what Balancing this with being a scholar and an honor student was never easy, but I continued with resilience
No matter how uncertain the outcome, I believe in giving my best, in pushing forward even when the odds are always against me Whether in academics, leadership, or personal battles, I choose to try not because I am fearless, but because
I refuse to look back and regret a battle I never fought Now, as I look back on my time in Mapúa, I realize that the struggles, the late nights, the responsibilities, and even the losses have all shaped me
I may not have dreamed of being here, but Mapúa gave me the dream I never knew I needed.
To me, leadership was not just about holding a position it was about making a difference, standing up for others, inspiring them to lead, and ensuring that no one felt unheard However, my journey was not without loss In ninth grade, I lost my lola, the woman who raised me to be who I am today Her absence remains my greatest heartbreak, but it also became my strongest inspiration to keep moving forward
Princess
Beep Beep Beep Beep The sound of a Hospital Heart Monitor continues to fill the hospital room with no other noise being heard except the silent cries of loved ones and the faint whisper of a man about to go the way of all the earth Everything had been done that could have been done
Beep Beep Beep The time had come, the time the doctor warned, that his loved ones feared and that he ignored came The time when his body would pay for the decisions he made The vices he chose
According to the 2019 Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS), one in seven students aged 13-15 now use e-cigarettes With the increasing number of young vapers, the question arises: why are teens still drawn to the vaping fad despite the health risks and controversies surrounding it?
For many young people, vaping offers a sense of rebellion and an escape from the stresses of school or home life The colorful, sleek designs of e-cigarettes and the hundreds of flavors available, ranging from fruity to dessertinspired, make it seem like a harmless, even fun, alternative to traditional smoking
The Killing Smoke
Gamboa, a public health expert Of course, now it makes sense, vaping is marketed as if it were candy or soda, as if it was just a sweet and spectacular vice and not the killing smoke that it is
Flaws in the Law
Beep Beep His loved ones slowly walked towards the tired man in the old bed Holding tears in every step until most could not take it anymore A woman specifically, one with a golden ring same as the man ’ s could not bear the sight and used every ounce of her strength to look Then the man spoke
Beep “Why? Why? Why?”, the man asked with his dying breath, so faint as if he was whispering to someone ’ s ear that most did not even hear his words Regardless, these were his very last
A new sound was heard Not a beep A different, longer and deafening sound.
This is a fate, many are all too familiar with, and one that though it seems like a million miles away is merely a few inches to many Filipino teenagers, with a troubling trend continuing to gain momentum in the Philippines: the rise of vaping among youth
However, what these teens often do not realize is that vaping is far from harmless Despite claims by manufacturers that e-cigarettes are a safer alternative to smoking, the reality is that vaping still exposes users to harmful chemicals, including nicotine, which can lead to addiction Even worse, the Philippines recently documented its first death linked to e-cigarette use, an alarming wake-up call for the country
The rise in teen vaping can be traced to several factors, notably the easy access to e-cigarettes Vape shops are often located near schools, and a study by the Institute for Global Tobacco Control (IGTC) found that over 2,000 retailers sell e-cigarettes within 100 meters of schools
“Vaping is marketed in ways that appeal to youth, using flavors and ads that make it seem less harmful,” as stated by Dr Cecilia
The Philippines’ legislative environment plays a massive role in this The Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act, or Republic Act 11900, lowered the minimum age for purchasing e-cigarettes from 21 to 18 and shifted oversight to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Numerous experts have rightly argued that this dangerous law benefits the tobacco industry, making e-cigarettes more accessible and less regulated
“The law is flawed,” says Dr Gamboa “It favors the industry, making it easier for teens to become addicted ” Even The Department of Health (DOH) has expressed concern, particularly after the first reported case of death from vaping-associated lung injury (EVALI) “Vapes are not as harmless as they are portrayed,” says DOH spokesperson Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo
To address this growing issue, experts are calling for stricter regulations, including raising the minimum purchase age to 21, banning flavored e-cigarettes, and enforcing existing laws prohibiting the sale of tobacco products near schools These are actions that need to be implemented, along with the increase of public awareness campaigns and better education
The only way to kill the killing smoke is to reform the law that allowed it to breathe in the first place.
about the danger of e-cigarettes which are crucial to combat the misleading marketing that encourages teens to start vaping
The killing smoke is out for the Filipino youth, and if lawmakers and health officials don’t act quickly to protect public health then we will be hearing more defeaning sounds of a life’s early end The only way to kill the killing smoke is to reform the law that allowed it to breathe in the first place
Photo Credits: Renz Macorol
Fact-Checking Ban on Meta: Empowering Users amid Cyber Risks
Eleora Noma
Last week on January 10, Mark Zuckerberg, founder of Facebook and Meta, made an announcement regarding major changes to the company’s intent moderation policies. In a video titled “More Speech, Fewer Mistakes,” Zuckerberg revealed that Meta would end its partnership with external factchecking organizations.
Instead, the company plans to adopt a community-driven moderation system, called “community notes,” similar to the model used by X (formerly Twitter) This system allows users to flag and add context to posts they deem misleading, aiming to democratize content moderation
While this change is presented as a step toward greater transparency and more user involvement, it raises critical concerns about the spread of misinformation on one of the world’s largest social media platforms
The Rise of Community-Driven Moderation
Meta’s decision to replace traditional fact-checkers with crowd-sourced oversight reflects a broader trend in the tech industry toward user-controlled content moderation
Misinformation Dilemma
Fact-checking organization have played a crucial role in combating misinformation, especially during elections and the COVID-19 pandemic They were responsible for debunking false claims about vaccine efficacy and election fraud
Meta’s reliance on these organizations helped curb the spread of harmful misinformation
Now, change to communitydriven moderation, there’s a concern that misinformation could spread unchecked Users, armed with their personal biases, could flag accurate posts as misleading, dividing groups and fostering harmful narratives Sensitive issues, such as public health, could be particularly vulnerable, where fake news has real-world consequences
Given the volume content shared on Meta’s platforms, there is a real question as to whether users alone can manage if it is fact or bluff
The Future of Content Moderation
UP unveils AOVU from uni plan 2023-2029
Marcus Benedict Austria
By empowering individuals to flag misleading posts and offer context, the system seeks to foster open dialogue and greater accountability
Proponents argue that this approach could help encourage diverse perspectives and reduce the influence of centralized moderation
However, this model comes with cons Professional fact-checking follow strict journalistic standards and use their expertise to verify information, skills that most users may not progress
Without safeguards to ensure the accuracy of user-generated notes, biased groups could spread misleading narratives unchecked This lack oversight could erode trust in the platform and undermine the reliability of its content
Meta’s decision may set a potential for other tech companies to follow, signaling a shift away from centralized moderation and toward decentralized user-driven systems As platforms experiment with these models, the role of users in shaping online content will continue to grow This raises important questions about the balance between freedom of speech and the responsibility of platforms to ensure accuracy of information
Should tech companies be responsible for content accuracy, or is it up to the people to separate fact from fiction?
As Meta and other companies redefine content moderation, the fight against misinformation is far from over Whether communitydriven systems will succeed or increase the spread of fake news depends not only on these systems but also on how well users adapt to their new responsibilities in an increasingly complex online world
MANILA, Philippines – As part of its 116th Foundation Celebration, the University of the Philippines has launched the Archipelagic and Oceanic Virtual University (AOVU) as one of its ten flagship programs, following their unveiling of the UP Strategic Plan 20232029.
According to this plan, the virtual university aims for the nation to have “ a transformative approach to understanding and utilizing our archipelagic environment for sustainable development ” The AOVU will be hosted in the University of the Philippines System’s main campus, UP Diliman, and other satellite offices
Alongside its offering of postgraduate programs, making of
sufficient policy and pioneering research on marine conservation and the Blue Economy, the virtual university will also put much of its focus on studies regarding the Sulu Archipelago, a chain of islands part of the Mindanao island group
Dr Jay Batongbacal, the director of the Institute of Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea, had this to say about the university’s purposes, “We needed a new way of reorienting all of these masses of people that you already have who have gained certain capacities in certain specializations and expertise, and reorient them towards the ocean ”
The AOVU promises to directly connect with the government, stakeholders, and actors in regard to the nation’s maritime efforts
The idea for AOVU started out when National Scientist Emil Javier delivered a concept note for a virtual university on oceanographic and maritime studies to the then-UP President Atty Danilo Concepcion
AI Wars:
Marcus Benedict Austria
It has begun; a battle of Artificial Intelligence is near But it’s not like anything in the movies There’s no giant robot with human skin going around and terminating everybody
Rather, it’s akin to a school test, where one looks at someone else’s answer while he is not looking Such is the case of DeepSeek and ChatGPT Two warring AIs fighting for the user ’ s attention, but it seems like DeepSeek has been secretly stealing from its big brother to get ahead
Both DeepSeek and ChatGPT are generative AI chatbots, a very common trend nowadays used for varying purposes from producing efficiency at a multinational level by engineers to the easy act of plagiarism numerous students do nowadays ChatGPT, a generative chatbot made by the company OpenAI, has been the undisputed king of these types of Artificial Intelligence for some time However, recently DeepSeek, a China-based alternative has been making much headway in the race, and is being seen as a threat to ChatGPT’s global dominance
Violation of Terms and Services
Students who do not crave change choose to settle in situations they are content with and used to Students who pursue change see problems waiting to be fixed and dream of better states for them and their communities
In other words, some students can choose to turn a blind eye to issues; while others strive for change to go beyond the issues
Some prefer a stagnant present; while others make a move for a fulfilling future
Corruption and injustices seen and felt all over the country, but some choose to ignore and others fight against Unfairness and inequality evident in schools and workplaces, but some tolerate and others contend against
Students complain but in different ways; some complain with mindless cruel words that will pierce through and others complain with actions that will inflict change; some whisper
Students who do not crave change choose to settle in situations they are content with and used to Students who pursue change see problems waiting to be fixed and dream of better states for them and their communities
Despite DeepSeek’s seeming victory in the AI landscape, OpenAI has discovered a breach of its terms and services when they evaluated the Chinese-based AI chatbot further Notably, the company behind DeepSeek seems to have used ChatGPT itself to develop their AI and make it up to par with its American counterpart
While this is not a direct correlation, this could be a sign of not just AI’s growing reign over the global landscape but also the political tension between China and the United States, as both have been very respectful of each other’s activities, especially with the company behind Tiktok being put into question
As the years go on, AI will most likely not take over the world as they do in the movies rather like the space program before it, they will become mere political tools used by nations to fight against each other in a battle to see which one reigns as the greatest of all
In other words, some students can choose to turn a blind eye to issues; while others strive for change to go beyond the issues Some prefer a stagnant present; while others make a move for a fulfilling future
Corruption and injustices seen and felt all over the country, but some choose to ignore and others fight against Unfairness and inequality evident in schools and workplaces, but some tolerate and others contend against
Students complain but in different ways; some complain with mindless cruel words that will pierce through and others complain with actions that will inflict change; some whisper
ChatGPT, DeepSeek, and Pinoy Cyber Security THE
Free to Learn:
Marcus Benedict Austria
Woes and Pleas for Free Education
CARDINAL PRINT
“Cry out, cry out, they say Let them know the problems and injustices you are facing, and they will act. But me and my many children of poverty have been crying! Indeed, our voices have been heard all throughout the land yet still we are lacking, yet still we find our hopes and dreams crushed beneath the feet of the land supposed to protect us ” a personification of poverty of the Filipino people
The Philippines has, in the past, tried to resolve the horrendous issues the poor faced when it came to a lack of funds and resources to further pursue their college education While wellmeaning, their attempt to do so through RA 10931, which gave free tuition and other school fees in public universities, has not proven successful In fact, quite the opposite is happening
It can be seen that out of the whole Philippines, 4 out of 10 Filipino students are dropping out of college despite the law to make higher education free for all Even the question of whether or not the remaining students belong to impoverished groups carries an alarming answer as past studies show that only 3% of college graduates belong to the poorest people group
Free for all?
The same studies that say this also say that 52% of those graduates belong to the richest group. These are alarming numbers as it can be inferred that there are very few poor Filipinos who are actually making use of the law that was purposefully made to help them! Instead, the rich minority are the ones who get to enjoy these privileges despite their capability to fully fund their children’s school fees
“How can we study? How can we pour time and attention into an active pursuit of learning when students and their families are dying from the ache in their bellies? Struggling to make every coin count and even attain those coins in the first place?”
In a recent Rappler Talk, EDCOM 2 Executive Director Karol Yee provides a very apt reasoning for these numbers The fact remains that for many college students, it is more realistic for them to work immediately rather than pursue a degree that will take years before producing fruit While yes, they can work while they pursue their education, one
question will be at the forefront of their minds, “Is it even worth it? To get less pay, less food on the table, for something that will take years before I could get a proper job?”
The Philippines must direct its attention to solving issues beyond expensive tuition fees The country must strive to fund the students themselves to encourage and motivate them to continue their education and to get a profession from which they can not only pay the bills but rise above them
already have the proper resources, the country must focus on equity, and make sure that impoverished students can make use of the opportunities that college can give them
“Look at us! Don’t you see the state in which we are in? You started well but now you have left us to rot! Continue to extend your hand, oh protectors and lawmakers of the Filipino people Continue to fight the good fight and make sure that our dreams are not squandered; please make sure that we get to live too ”
Subsidies that focus on the poor and give them the resources to relieve their plight Rather than promoting equality which has proven to merely those who
... the rich minority are the ones who get to enjoy hese privileges despite their capability to fully fund their children’s school fees.
Photo Credits: Bulatlat com
Modified Photos Obtained from: writesonic com getty images
Back to Court:
Rise, Fall, and Return
of the Controversial Case of Pepsi Paloma
Going back to the years long ago, 43 Going to years long ago, 43 years from now, a scandal emerged in the years from now, a scandal emerged in the headlines of the newspapers, slamming headlines of the newspapers, slamming comedians and hosts of the show Eat and hosts of the show Eat Bulaga! Joey de Leon, Vic Sotto, and Bulaga! Joey de Leon, Vic Sotto, and Richie D’Horsey with cases of drugging D’Horsey cases of drugging and raping a Filipino actress known as and raping a Filipino actress known as Pepsi Paloma Pepsi Paloma
Pepsi Paloma whose real name is Delia
Pepsi Paloma whose real name is Delia Dueñas Smith, was a Filipino-American Dueñas Smith, was a Filipino-American dancer and actress, appearing in films dancer and actress, appearing in films from 1980-1985 The claims of her raping 1980-1985 claims of raping included her fellow actress, Guada included her fellow actress, Guada Guarin, and how they were both brought Guarin, and they were both brought to a room at the Sulô Hotel in Quezon to a room at Sulô Hotel in Quezon City, where they were subsequently raped City, where they were subsequently raped
The Alleged Aftermath The Alleged Aftermath
Afterward, Paloma filed a case against the Afterward, Paloma a case against the three comedians which allegedly resulted three comedians which allegedly resulted in the actor and then future senator Tito the actor and then senator Tito Sotto, brother of Vic Sotto coercing Sotto, brother of Vic Sotto coercing Paloma to sign an Affidavit of Desistance to sign an Affidavit of Desistance and to drop the case on the three by and to drop the case on the three by intimidating her with a gun At the time, her with a gun At the time, however, other newspaper reports stated however, other newspaper reports stated that it was Paloma’s mother who signed that it was Paloma’s mother who signed the document on her behalf document on her behalf
However, even when they got Paloma’s signature through their alleged threats, the signature through their alleged threats, the story goes that the three comedians issued story goes that the three comedians issued a public apology to Pepsi Paloma which a public apology to Pepsi Paloma which according to the Philippine Daily Inquirer, according to the Philippine Daily Inquirer, was published in the People’s Journal on was the People’s Journal on October 13, 1982 Here is their supposed October 13, 1982 Here is their supposed apology: apology:
However, even when they got Paloma’s
The Return and Response The Return and
“We hope that you will not allow the error hope that you will not allow the error we have committed against you to stand committed against stand as a stumbling block to that future which as a stumbling block to that future which we all look forward to We therefore ask all look forward to We ask you to find it in your heart to pardon us for you to it in your heart to pardon us for the wrong which we have done against the wrong which have done against you ” you ”
It may be shocking for us to hear that It may shocking for us to hear that modern Filipinos are so accustomed to the modern Filipinos are so accustomed to the presence and popularity of the three and popularity of the three comedians but if they had been found but if they had found guilty of this crime, they would’ve faced a guilty of this they would’ve faced a most incredulous death on the electric most incredulous death on the electric chair chair
Nearly half a century later, the truth is still speculated and Nearly half century later, the is still and is in the public eye Tito Sotto has gone on to say that the is in the public eye Tito Sotto has gone on to say that the scandal was just a gimmick in a 2016 interview on the scandal was just a gimmick in a 2016 interview on the radio DZMM He argues that he wasn’t even a public radio DZMM He argues that he wasn’t even a public servant by that time, as he became the vice mayor of servant by that time, as he became the vice of Quezon City by 1988 Quezon City by 1988
Furthermore, he also stated that it was Paloma’s manager Furthermore, he also stated it was Paloma’s manager who was the mastermind behind this as they were getting who was the mastermind behind this as they were getting accused of libel by Vic Sotto and Joey de Leon, resulting in accused of libel by Vic Sotto and Joey de Leon, resulting in their retaliation by filing a case against them He also their by filing a case against them also claimed that he had no hand in Paloma’s subsequent death claimed that he had no hand in Paloma’s subsequent death and that her death was due to her drug use and her death due to her drug
The issue went on to resurface time and time again, The issue went on to resurface time and time again, appearing in newspapers by the Inquirer and then getting appearing in newspapers by the Inquirer and then getting subsequently taken down, and now with the highly subsequently taken down, and now with the highly controversial director Darryl Yap who has made a movie controversial Darryl Yap who made a movie called “The Rapists of Pepsi Paloma.” The trailer that was called “The Rapists of Pepsi Paloma ” The trailer that was released on the New Year, January 1, 2025, name- released on the New Year, January 1, 2025, namedropped Vic Sotto as one of the culprits Due to this, Vic dropped Vic Sotto as one of the culprits Due to this, Vic Sotto has filed 19 counts of cyber libel and seeks P35 Sotto has filed 19 counts of cyber libel and seeks P35 Million in damages against Darryl Yap as his response Million damages Darryl Yap as his response
Moreover, the director has gone on to respond in
Instead, it was Pepsi Paloma who died 3
Instead, it was Pepsi Paloma who died 3 years after in a suicide by hanging Next years after in a suicide by hanging Next to her was found a diary citing various to her was found a diary citing various monetary problems and anxieties she had monetary problems and anxieties she had regarding her boyfriend and her mom The regarding her boyfriend and her mom The authenticity of this journal was questioned, authenticity of this journal was questioned, however, Pepsi’s manager Babette “Babe” however, Pepsi’s manager Babette “Babe” Corcuerra claimed that Pepsi was earning claimed Pepsi was earning quite well before this quite well before this
Moreover, the director has gone on to respond in retaliation, stating “Pepsi goes back to court ” A quite retaliation, stating “Pepsi goes back to court ” A quite representative phrase for the entirety of the situation as representative for the entirety of the situation as time and time again, even after many years, the Paloma time and time again, even after many years, the Paloma case remains in the public eye despite questions about the case remains in the public eye despite questions about the timeline and the court’s decision favoring the three timeline and the court’s decision favoring three comedians. comedians
However, with many Filipinos questioning and speculating However, with many Filipinos questioning and speculating about the entire incident, one thing is for sure for Pepsi about the entire incident, one thing is for sure for Pepsi Paloma, whether one believes the allegations or not, no Paloma, whether one believes the allegations or not, no rest will seem to be given and as per the infamous director, rest will seem to be given and as per the infamous director, Pepsi will be going back to court Pepsi will going back to court
net imdb com imdb
Marcus Benedict Austria
Eleora Noma
In schools and universities, student athletes can be seen as the celebrities or idols on the grounds and hallways. They were able to give their school some recognition, bring home medals or trophies, and continue doing what they love while also getting better.
But, outside of the spotlight, they were just students. They go to class every day, head out to the gym after dismissal, and go home to finish their assignments.
A student-athlete understands that their role goes beyond representing their school in sports They are role models who value hard work, perseverance, and sportsmanship
However, it is also important for schools and communities to support these young individuals Guiding them with the subjects they need to catch up on, giving them a comfort circle, or just asking them if they are okay and well
AxelsenDefendsGoldTitlein Men’sBadmintonSingles
PARIS—On August 5, 2024, Denmark’s Viktor Axelsen brushed aside Thailand’s Kunlavut Vitidsarn in the Olympic Finals of Men’s Singles Badminton.
Viktor was once again crowned as the champion of badminton.
Despite the cheers and admiration they receive, the life of a student athlete is far from glamorous. Balancing academics and athletics requires discipline, time management, and resilience. In sports, they would be in demand to put in long hours of training, practice, and weekend competitions white also excelling in academics.
For many, this commitment can feel overwhelming, but it is also what sets them apart
What truly defines a studentathlete is not just their achievements on the court or field but their character beyond the game How do they handle victory with humility, or defeat with grace? How do they carry themselves in the classroom, showing respect for their classmates and teachers?
In the end, the true meaning of a student-athlete is not the number of trophies, medals, achievements, or scores they bring but the integrity, discipline, and resilience they carry now and throughout their life
Beyond the game, they are people in the making, inspiring their peers and proving that excellence is not just about winning It’s about character
This has already been Axelsen’s third Olympic medal and second for gold, having previously won the Olympic championship in 2020 Japan.
From the first game to the last, Axelsen was able to dominate the scoreboard s against Vitidsarn, scoring with the same points, 21–11, 21–11
As he planted his last winning point, Axelsen ran over the court, carrying his country’s flag with joy as the crowd began to shout his name, “Viktor! Viktor!”
THE CARDINAL PRINT
He shared the podium with Thailand’s Kunlavut Vitidsarn for silver, and Malaysia’s Lee Zii Jia for bronze.
Photo Credits: Badmintonphoto
Photo Credits: Louis Albert Doyola
Eleora Noma
THIS YEAR’S THIS YEAR’S CHAMPS: CHAMPS: CardinalsclaimNCAA2024
Alexander G Luistro
Alexander G. Luistro
Mapúa Cardinals’ redemption tour concludes as they claim their 6th National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
Senior Men’s Basketball crown as they ended their 33-year title drought, since their last championship in 1991
From being the Cardinals’ champion player in 1991, to getting the championship as the juniors’ head coach, and now the seniors’, Coach Randy Alcantara was awarded the Coach of the Year award
The Cardinals reclaimed their crown after sweeping the Benilde Blazers in the NCAA Season 100 Senior Men’s Basketball Finals last December 7, 2024, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, Cubao, Quezon City
In a post-game interview with Escamis, he was asked his thoughts on getting the job done
Katie B Lagazon
Clint Escamis, skillfully led the Mapua Cardinals to victory against the Lyceum of the Philippine University by 89-79, securing their first ticket to the final round of NCAA Season 100 on November 23, 2025 at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City
LPU faltered at the free-throw line, missing five consecutive crucial attempts Mapua solidified their victory in the closing moments with Yam Concepcion’s decisive free throw
The Blazers dominated the first quarter until Lawrence Mangubat, the rookie point guard of the Cardinals hit a three at the buzzer and a 1point lead as they ended the first quarter, fueling the Cardinals’ momentum and turning the favors within their hands
The Cardinals were able to sustain their lead until the last second of the game with Cyrus Cuenco leading them, finishing with 19 points, 2 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1 steal truly, the player of the game
Ending with a score of 94-82, Mapúa got their long-awaited championship after three finals appearances under Head Coach Randy Alcantara Clint Escamis, the Cardinals’ team captain, was hailed the finals MVP, averaging 24 PPG, 4 APG, and 4 SPG
… I just wanted this so bad […] 33 years is over. […] We did it, job’s finished.
- Clint Escamis
“ I just wanted this so bad [ ] 33 years is over [ ] We did it, job’s finished ” Escamis shared
Mapúa University President and CEO Dr Dodjie S Maestrecampo shares the same sentiment as he describes the moment on behalf of Mapúa, “We’ve waited for this for 33 years ”
The Cardinals dominated the first two quarters, with Escamis scoring 18 of his team's 29 points in the first quarter (2921), and extending their lead to nine points by halftime (55-46)
However, the Pirates turned the tides in the third quarter, relentlessly pressuring Mapua John Bravo clutched a 2-pointer in the third qurter, securing their first lead against LPU (59-57) Despite Cyris Cuenco’s efforts to scramble for loose balls and regain possession for Mapua, the quarter ended with Lyceum holding a 65-63 advantage
In the Cardinals' redemption season, the reigning MVP revealed in one of the interview that his stellar performance comes from trusting his teammates, and setting aside individual goals for a greater purpose Escamis ended the game against the Pirates with 33 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block
LPU’s star Bravo who exited the game before its conclusion after experiencing cramps in both of his legs managed to pull off 20 points, 10 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 block, his last final push for his team This marks the end of the Pirates' championship dreams for the season.
In the final quarter, a wake-up call ignited the Cardinals as they started riddling the Pirates with three-pointers, with Escamis scoring a career-high 33 points
Still alive and intact, the Mapua Cardinals will soon face off against the Benilde Blazers for the historic centennial championship title
Photo Credits: Inquirer net
Looking Through Looking Through The Scope: Your The Scope: Your 2025 Horoscope! 2025 Horoscope!
Alessandra Flores Alessandra Flores
A new year has come, it
A new year has come, it also means new horoscope also means new horoscope descriptions are bound to be descriptions are bound to be released! Each of us have released! of have different personalities, different personalities, which also means we have which also means we have different fates and destinies different fates and destinies set for this year! set for this year!
ARIES ARIES (MARCH 21 - APRIL 20) (MARCH 21 - APRIL 20)
TAURUS TAURUS
Stop being too sensitive! Stop being too sensitive! Every feeling is valid but not Every feeling is valid but not to the point to make it your to the point to make it your whole personality. Aries’ whole personality. Aries’ are always too sensitive, to are always too sensitive, to the point it negatively the point it negatively affects the people around affects the people around them who constantly need them who constantly need to comfort them and ruin the to comfort them and ruin the atmosphere of the room. atmosphere of the room
(APRIL 21 - MAY 20) (APRIL 21 - MAY 20)
CANCER CANCER
(JUNE 22 - JULY 22) (JUNE 22 - JULY 22)
Love-hate relationship, Love-hate relationship, Cancers possess Cancers possess characteristics that are either the reason why either the reason why people love them so much people love them so much or why people hate them to or why people them to the core. They have very the core They have very positive traits that make positive traits that make people stick onto them for people stick onto them for life and they also have a and they also have very negative trait that negative trait that makes people stick out of makes people stick out of their life. life.
LLEO EO
LLIBRA IBRA (SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER (SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23) 23)
Touch some grass! Libra’s has Touch some grass! Libra’s has a humor that makes people a humor that people think to themselves if they think to themselves if they haven’t touched grass in haven’t touched grass years. Libra’s are shy and years. Libra’s shy and timid when they are not yet timid when they are not comfortable with the people comfortable with the people they are interacting with, but they are interacting with, but when they do, they unleash when they do, they unleash their most unhinged sense of their most unhinged sense of humor that is quite concerning humor that is quite concerning ssometimes. ometimes.
CAPRICORN CAPRICORN (DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY (DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 21) 21)
(JULY 23 - AUGUST 23) (JULY 23 - AUGUST 23)
Learn to continue fighting! to continue fighting! Learn how to communicate Learn how to communicate and have patience for the and have patience for the things you want to last, you want to last, especially to the things you especially to the things you cherish the most in your life the most in your life. Don’t give up so easily to Don’t up so easily to not disappoint yourself in disappoint yourself in the end, continue fighting the end, continue fighting for that something you’ve for that something you’ve been waiting for been waiting for.
GEMINI GEMINI
(MAY 21 - JUNE 21) 21 - JUNE 21)
So-so people, others don’t So-so people, others don’t necessarily dislike or like necessarily dislike or like Leo’s They are in the Leo’s. are in the middle, they don’t have middle, they don’t have many good or bad traits many good or bad traits that stand out too much for that stand out too much for people to like or dislike people to like or dislike them. In a crowd, they are them. In a crowd, they mostly the people who do mostly the people who do not make much of a not make much of difference whether they are difference whether they are there or not there or not.
SCORPIO SCORPIO (OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER (OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22) 22)
The most self-centered and The most self-centered and narcissistic people you will narcissistic people ever meet, they only care ever they only care about themselves The most about themselves. The most toxic traits are found in a toxic traits are found in a person who is a scorpio, only person who is a scorpio, only caring about what they want caring about what they want and what benefits only for and what benefits only for them Change yourself for the them. yourself for the better, be better. better, be better
Stop being a people pleaser!
Stop being a people pleaser! Capricorn’s go out of their Capricorn’s go out way to stand in discomfort way to stand in discomfort just to comfort other people’s just to comfort other people’s satisfaction. Their circle of satisfaction. Their circle of friends are people they don’t friends are people they don’t really vibe with but they really vibe with they hangout with them in order to hangout with them in order to feel included and not be an feel included and not an outcast in the society. outcast in the society.
AQUARIUS AQUARIUS (JANUARY 22 - FEBRUARY (JANUARY 22 - FEBRUARY 19) 19)
Stop seeking for love!
VIRGO VIRGO (AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER (AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23) 23)
Stop seeking for love! Aquarius’ often think that Aquarius’ often think that they are not loved, but in they are not loved, but reality, they are! They are so reality, they are! are so absorbed that people think absorbed that people think the worst of them but really, the worst them but really, it’s all in their health. it’s all in their health Consistent reassurance is Consistent reassurance is what they need for them to what they need for them to not overthink things. not overthink things
PISCES PISCES
SAGITTARIUS SAGITTARIUS (NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER (NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 21) 21)
(FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20) (FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20)
Stop ghosting! When things
Stop ghosting! When things don’t go well, learn to don’t go well, learn to communicate rather than communicate rather than ghost! Gemini’s always ghost! Gemini’s always make difficult situations make difficult situations even more difficult by even more difficult by ghosting and not face the ghosting and face the consequence of the consequence of the situation. We understand situation We understand it’s their form of coping, but it’s of coping, but honestly, now is the reason honestly, now is the reason to start stopping to start stopping.
Great people, Virgo’s are Great people, Virgo’s are not average, they are more average, they are than average. They have than average. They have toxic traits like everyone toxic traits like everyone else, but, it does not but, it does not overshadow their positive overshadow their positive traits They are the kind of traits. They the kind people that will make people that will make mistakes and learn from and learn from them to be a better person them to be a better for themselves and the themselves and the people around them. They people around them. are loved by people. are loved by people
The best people! They are The best people! born leaders, leading born leaders, leading everyone to become the better everyone to become the better versions of themselves no versions of themselves no matter the setting is Being matter the setting is. Being wise and emphatic are their wise and emphatic are best features that allows them best features that allows them to get along with everyone to get along with and is also the reason why and is also the reason why people love them people love them.
THE CARDINAL PRINT
The most independent people The most independent people. Pisces does not need anyone Pisces does not need anyone to rely on, they can rely on to rely on, they can rely on themselves They were born themselves. They were ready to face the challenging ready to face the challenging world without any help, world without any help, although being independent although being independent makes them weak as they makes them as they don’t have someone to go to don’t have someone to go to when things get a little too when things get a little too much for them much for them.
