The Crusader 85th Anniversary Special Issue

The Pursuit of Truth Continues Inside: CruTV over the Years XU Return to Campus Plans People Feature: XU Frontliners

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Publishers Subscribing Students of Xavier University Editorial Board Melvin P. Villacote Editor in Chief Abdel Rafi M. Lim Associate Editor Derrick Kean A. Auxtero Design Editor Rafhael L. Jabongga Managing Editor Nia Enrille R. Rabanes Features Editor Paula Elaine D. Francisco Photography Editor Jayson Elvie G. Ty Graphic Design & Layout Editor* Sumayyah G. Caris Freehand Editor Jean Mika M. Aporillo Video Productions Director

Finance Officers Sumayyah G. Caris Auditor Rafhael L. Jabongga Senior Finance Manager Reyjean Marie S. Bacud Junior Finance Manager (Trainee) Managers Edshera Mae R. Abella Human Resource Manager Catherine Marie C. Naldoza Office Manager Karl Anton J. Noob Circulations Manager Jivi Roy D. Rizaldo Online Accounts Manager Staff Writers Danica Ela P. Armendarez (Trainee) Alyssa Chantal P. Moreno (Trainee) Beth A. Nalam (Trainee) Levina Eunice O. Palarca (Trainee) Leinarra L. Tumarong (Trainee) Reina Margaret Gwynette T. Villamor (Trainee) Staff Artists Kirk Joshua D. Anor (Trainee) Caryll M. Apostol (Trainee) John Ian G. Bradshaw (Trainee) Sheil Ann Ashley P. Bruas Jhovale Ryan A. Edloy Reuel Matthew T. Maslog (Trainee) Franzel Mae G. Mendoza (Trainee) James Patrick B. Pabonita Kevin Matthew N. Pacana (Trainee) Joseph Lawrence P. Padillo (Trainee) Aira May L. Plaga (Trainee) Kenneth Jhon D. Sanchez (Trainee) Louise Marie Carmel M. Solarte (Trainee) Karl Mykell M. Tabbay (Trainee) Darren Camille C. Tabanera (Trainee) Moderator Ms. Ann Catherine T. Acenas *Interim For contributions, please address your articles and/or comments to: TheCrusader Publication Office, Rm. 302, Student Training Center (STC) Bldg, Xavier University 9000, Cagayan de Oro City Circulation 1,000 copies

Table of Contents 1 Editorial 2 Columns 4 Unseen Enemy, Unsung Heroes: Who Stands on the Front Lines?

8 Homeward Bound 11 Through the Looking Glass: CruTV Over the Years 12 The Pursuit of Truth Continues 16 The Crusader History Timeline 21 A Pandemic Predicament: Spelling out CSG 22 To Cast a Vote 23 Philippines and the Pandemic 24 Verifying the Comment Section: A Crash Course on the Philippine Government 25 Project Lunhaw: Changes Inbound 26 Year in Review 2020 28 Cora Contrabida: Edi ikaw na lang mag presidente!

29 Comics 31 Hohongihong

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hroughout the years, TheCrusader Publication remains unyielding, unprejudiced, and unbound.

No matter the obstacle—be it a calamity or a global pandemic—the knight continues to march on in pursuit of the truth.

In celebration of TheCrusader’s 85th year anniversary, let us trace back the roots that shaped the publication that is known today.C Words by Levina Eunice O. Palarca Illustration by Jayson Elvie G. Ty Design by Melvin P. Villacote

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The official student publication of Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan Vol. 47 No. 2 December 2020

Email your comments & suggestions to thecrusaderpub@gmail.com

EDITORIAL

Static on TV

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ontrary to the expectation that Duterte would be on top of the preparations for the then-incoming Typhoons Rolly and Ulysses, the Philippine President was absent in the first high-level briefing on the world’s strongest tropical cyclone of the year, and failed to make a public appearance in the onslaught of both. Citizens took it to social media to question where his priorities were, to be missing at such crucial times. As a result #NasaanAngPangulo trended on Twitter and sparked debates among different parties.

A lot of people seemed to take this hashtag as a nonsensical act of pointing fingers to promote opposition against Duterte, asserting that it was beyond his power to stop the typhoon and that the demand for accountability didn’t align. They expressed frustration that these critics simply wanted to pull him down for any issue they can hop on.

Despite Duterte’s claim of having monitored the situation from Davao during the first typhoon, and having to attend the ASEAN Summit during the second, and even with Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque reminding the citizens, “Hindi po dapat tanungin nasaan ang Pangulo, yan po ay kalokohan lang ng oposisyon,”—the move to turn to online platforms and to voice out the concern for whether the president is doing his job is not something to be discredited as a mere stunt.

When we order a large-sized coffee and receive a medium-sized one despite having paid extra for the bigger cup, we don’t hesitate to turn to the barista and ask why our order is incorrect. Isn’t it more or less the same concept with how we are to act with the system that governs us? We have a number of people elected in their respective positions, people who have sworn to public service. When this service does not equate to the expectation of its recipients, wouldn’t it be appropriate to raise a concern? Out of everyone we have elected into their seats, we put our highest faith in the individual who becomes the symbolic leader of the state. At the time of the typhoons that put thousands of Filipinos in jeopardy, it would have provided great comfort to see that symbolic leader show up before the masses with the consolation that we could get through the hard times.

Enough with the sentiments like, “But the president is tired.” Enough with ordinary citizens giving excuses for him. It should not matter if it feels like Duterte is in a hot seat for where he has been and what he has done in those tragedies. He is entitled to respond to the concerns of the people. We deserve more than emotional promises, the likes of Roque’s, “Lagi po natin siyang kapiling,”—we deserve a president who shows up and informs us of the concrete plans and measures he has employed, in the name that he holds the most powerful position in this country.

The citizens don’t expect Duterte to swim in floodwaters and perform rescue operations himself, they want him to be present as the symbol that he is. With the technology available today, he could have addressed the nation wherever he was.

This is what government accountability entails. It is within our power to demand what we, as citizens looking out for one another, expect of those we have chosen to lead us. It is, after all, our role in this democracy.C

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Your faith is hurting me

he majority of Filipinos are Christians, and a lot of them, if not all, believe that being attracted to a person of the same sex is a sin.

For it is taught that God “only” created a man and a woman—Adam and Eve. It’s frustrating how people just base the concept of sex and gender from scriptures that are written ages ago, and the most disheartening part of all is how they easily neglect the existence of a whole bunch of identities and preferences that are simply just not fitting their standards of what a man and a woman should be.

A lot of gay people, even I, grew up listening to “Ang mga bayot ilansang sa krus!”, which has scarred not just me, but a lot of people who identify as gay, making us think that what we are is not accepted in society and that we are abominations.

To be nailed on the cross is to be convicted of sin or of a crime, and to hear those words could plant fear and could lead to self-loathing.

This is one of the many factors why gay people have a hard time expressing themselves, especially when the people around them are also convinced that being gay is immoral. I can even hear relatives saying, “Ayaw jud panguyab ug lalaki kay sala jud na.” Now it’s just a statement worthy of an eye roll but back then, as a gay child, you believe them and you start thinking that you are defective, sinful, and that you just need God to guide you because “it’s just a phase”.

There is nothing wrong with standing for what you believe in and for having faith that is unbounded because respect of one’s religious freedom must be practiced. Things can get complicated when a person uses faith to discriminate and invalidate another person and it is of greater disappointment to use faith to justify hate.C

Misua

By Jayson Elvie G. Ty jayson.ty@thecrusaderpublication.ph

Philippine priority

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#LabanLang

By Rafhael L. Jabongga

verybody has been very vocal these past few months about the government and its actions regarding the pandemic. With the catastrophic happenings that ensued within the country, we are instead met with ABS-CBN’s shutdown, Manila Bay’s filling of dolomite sand, and the passing of the Anti-Terror Law— all irrelevant in today’s crisis. Why won’t they focus on improving our healthcare system in the Philippines, instead of prioritizing other matters?

Many countries are slowly recovering from this pandemic, but the Philippines still has an increase of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases, and we have yet to improve our healthcare system and find alternative solutions in battling this virus. As of Nov 28, statistics showed that 428,000 cases were recorded in the Philippines, where Metro Manila ranked first in having the most cases in the country. If this is the case, the government should allot a sufficient budget in the country’s healthcare system.

Many of our medical professionals, especially nurses, work abroad for better opportunities and better quality of life compared to working in our country. Knowing that the country has

an overwhelming number of nurses here in the Philippines, comprising much of the workforce in the medical field, they deserve more recognition and more support.

The lack of healthcare facilities, accessible medical centers, and medicine are some of the gaps that should be attended by the government.

Moreover, salary for our medical experts and professionals should be given a higher allotment in order to compensate for their expertise. According to Philippine General Hospital (PGH) physician Ronnie Baticulon, “Health care of the Philippines was never ready for a pandemic,” and it is true to point out such issues instead of ignoring it.

Health care should be a priority to all Filipinos regardless of their status in life. The government should invest in what is needed and what matters for the country, and fight for the development of our country’s welfare. We will rise as one Filipino nation, we will strive for a better Philippines, and we will fight any adversity like the pandemic. As Filipinos, we deserve more than this, we deserve better health care accessibility for our fellow citizens.C

rafhael.jabongga@thecrusaderpublication.ph

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Vol. 47 No. 2 December 2020

OPINION

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By Sumayyah G. Caris

t’s sad to grow in a society where asking for help should not be an option. To be considered strong, one must deny that they are in need of secondhand assistance and should just “hustle hard”. After all, we Filipinos are known for our resilience despite the harsh trials.

Seeing the comments of my fellowMindanaoans about the cries for help of the victims of typhoons Rolly and Ulysses do not just break my heart, but also make me question the version of humanity we are settling with—if it is even humanity at all. “Kami nga nung bagyong Ondoy, di namin hinanap ang pangulo,” they say.

“Matuto kayong maghanap ng solusyon hindi yung asa nang asa.”

Their petty defense is that people should learn to stand on their own feet. If we had at least an ounce of common sense we would realize, when was it ever wrong to ask for help? Especially when the line is drawn between surviving today and being gone tomorrow. Since when was being desperate for another chance in life considered being weak?

Telling people that they need to be more independent instead should never cover up for

someone else’s incompetence. They say, “Asa kayo nang asa sa gobyerno.” But shouldn’t we look up to the people we pay for with our taxes? To the people who were put in position to serve us? We should expect this government to do the bare minimum— their jobs—and we should hold them accountable for their shortcomings. We never said we wanted a government that can stop natural disasters, we already have enough misery on our plates to ride in with such ignorance. What we demand is a competent government who is prepared when these disasters destroy what we have.

Someone’s ability to face a struggle especially when they are in need of help should never be compared to anyone else’s. We’ve settled for these grim standards and for what? Do we have to watch our fellow Filipinos die in front of us before we acknowledge their cries for help? Someone else doing something successfully does not mean everyone else can too, and if you believe that, then you might feel the need to take off your privilegeshaded glasses.C

sumayyah.caris@thecrusaderpublication.ph

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Dionysus

By Melvin P. Villacote melvin.villacote@thecrusaderpublication.ph

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Listen to science

he current health crisis the world is facing has taught us many lessons to last a lifetime—to keep ourselves sanitized, to be patient, to listen to rules and orders—you name it. But let me emphasize the latter keyword, ‘listen’. Most of us have been doing this everyday as we spend our quarantine days listening to the news about the pandemic, listening to and following quarantine protocols, and even listening to discussions during online classes. While the aforementioned simultaneously happened since the COVID-19 pandemic changed our lives, there is still one thing left that we should listen to: science.

This pandemic exposed many things that should remind us of the importance and the contributions science has brought to the world. At some point in this quarantine, people were made to believe that eating bananas could help them avoid contracting the coronavirus; that mixing bleach and Tanduay can make a good sanitizer; and that the traditional tuob can be a cure for COVID-19. Imagine the global science community spending their time and effort for research to develop vaccines, diagnostics, and strategies to help us understand the virus, only for its people to go for make-believes. In an era of misinformation,

the lives of vulnerable sectors, especially the poor, could be jeopardized.

Although an evidence-based discipline, science is unfortunately ignored and unprioritized in this current political environment. It has become merely an option. Not to mention that some appointees to lead government offices are retired military officials, instead of scientists and experienced individuals. Studies and predictions to help fight the pandemic by research institutes in the country are even ridiculed by the very own government they are helping. The administration also defunded Project NOAH, which could have prevented massive damage when the recent typhoons devastated the Philippines.

Incorporating science into good governance is not just important, it is vital. Denying science and facts is not only frustrating but is also absolutely risky.

Aside from COVID-19, there are other bigger global crises that call us to listen to science. Just as scientists and researchers have come together to fight the pandemic, we must also utilize the brightest minds and give our fair share to recognize these challenges. The current crises should serve as a lesson for humanity that we should appreciate, prioritize, and to listen to science.C

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Photos by James Patrick Pabonita

Happychalala

Saan nilagay ang (pang)ULO?

By Danica Armendarez, Levina Palarca, & Leinarra Tumarong

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miles hidden behind masked lips and expressions veiled behind face shields—these are the faces we see in XU. Between our busy schedules in the virtual world and in the real world, we are tucked in our homes safe and sound, yet to those out on the front lines, the hustle continues, and their services remain unsung.

THE ILLUSTRIOUS DOCTOR an Institutional Research Coordinator in Northern Mindanao Medical Center (NMMC) and as a faculty member of XU-School of Medicine—her expertise is now much needed since there are only a few Epidemiologists in the country. She is now requested to help City Mayor Oscar Moreno during meetings and show up to interviews. Although the camerashy doctor admits that she prefers being in the background.

The Jesuit volunteer, loyal to her Ignatian values, continues to serve the community with her proficiency. Itchon concludes, “You have to use your profession to help others, and because I am a public health doctor, it’s very clear on [sic] what I need to do.”C

THE VISIONARY URBAN PLANNER In April of 2020, professor and researcher Engr. Jefferson R. Vallente started preparing his software tools to provide service to the pandemic emergency of the country.

The program coordinator of the XU-ERC perceived that the social nature of Filipinos could become the source of a rapid spread of COVID-19. With the commitment to serve XU, Vallente offered his service to his colleague and team leader Engr. Dexter S. Lo. Lo, along with NMMC Medical Officer IV Dr. Gina Itchon, were seeking a way to predict the spread of COVID-19 for the next 12 months.

Thus, they came up with the project Web-GRiD: A Decision Support Tool for Local Government Units (LGUs) in COVID-19 Response and

Recovery Operations.

Due to the restrictions of on-campus activities, the team found Web-GRiD convenient. Vallente says, “Web-GRiD is a great tool because, in the aspect of risk, we can layer the hazard, the vulnerabilities and the exposure. You can see these details, especially now that they have a relationship in terms of location.”

Vallente commits to serve God by giving back to XU and carrying its name to excellence.

He recounts, “What wakes me up in the morning is the part where I get to witness the world as how it is and what I can do to make it better.”C

Due to the pandemic, a new normal was introduced wherein health protocols should be observed and taken seriously. XU Physician Dr. Antonio Aranas believes that the duty of doctors is to educate their patients on the importance of these health protocols.

When the pandemic started, Aranas started telemedicine, or the practice of caring for patients in which consultation and management are done through online platforms.

“Telemedicine is ideal to limit exposure, hence reducing the risk of transmission,” he explains.

Although this was the case, Aranas who is also a trained surgeon, adds that there are still cases that cannot be addressed online, such as

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surgical operations.

For Aranas, being a good example is also important. He strictly complies to the minimum health standards to protect himself and more so, his family and his patients. He also takes inspiration from people who observe health protocols as it reminds him to not take the pandemic lightly.

Being a physician is not only a livelihood for Aranas but more as if it were God’s grace. “I am inspired by the belief that being a doctor is a God-given set of skills and talent, and I have to share what I can regardless of the situation,” Aranas shares.C

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Design by Derrick Kean A. Auxtero

THE DILIGENT ROLE MODEL

Photos by Amer Mangandog, Aira May L. Plaga, Kenneth John D. Sanchez, & Melvin P. Villacote

The day has finally come for the renowned Epidemiologist Dr. Gina Itchon to test the theories she has been studying since her master’s in public health from the University of Hong Kong.

Itchon is proud of what she has accomplished in her service with XU, as a former head of the Research Unit of the School of Medicine, she has left a legacy for the following generations to come. She created a system to make research an integral part of training doctors in the University and she re-established and renamed the Sustainable Sanitation Center to the Center for Global Health .

Although most of her works normally occur online, Itchon found her schedule brimming. Between balancing her time as

THE CONSCIENTIOUS GUARD For five years, XU Security Guard Wilmar Bendoy has grown comfortable with the daily life energy of XU—the joy of seeing students zoom along the pedestrian lane in front of the University Church while navigating the cars along the Main Lane. He did not mind the 12hour shift a day, nor the mandatory routine check of vehicles exiting the campus’ Main Gate. Now, everything felt new and strangely quiet for Bendoy.

As a high school graduate, Bendoy wants nothing more but to provide for his family and to continue sending his wife and children to school. With his two children and his

beautiful wife in heart and mind, the pillar of the family strives every day. Braving through the COVID-19 pandemic, Bendoy continues to serve XU as one of its hard-working security guards.

When the strict protocols of XU became even more firm, for the meticulous security guard, the new University protocols became the top priority. Herewith, Bendoy reminds everyone in XU to wear the appropriate personal protective equipment.

Bendoy serves as a reminder that being on the frontline is not a walk in the park. It takes one life to sustain another.C

THE FAITHFUL FRONTLINER The pandemic has emphasized the importance of healthcare workers in our community. While they continue to do their jobs, fear and anxiety can also overwhelm the frontliners who face the uncertainties of the pandemic head on.

Faith has been the strength and stone for XU School Nurse Mary Grace Santizas.

“The pandemic brought me even closer to God,” Santizas says. She never fails to pray for the protection of her family, for those who tested positive for COVID-19. As someone who once worked as a staff nurse in the Dubai Department of Health and Medical Services in the United Arab Emirates, she also prays for the

safety of frontliners here and abroad.

As a frontliner, keeping herself healthy, safe, and protected—to be able to serve the people who need her services—is already an achievement in itself. Although work has been challenging to keep up with lately, with prayer and a strict following of protocols, she can overcome any challenge ahead.

Behind every brave face of our frontliners is a story of unyielding faith and motivation.

“It’s also my family and my profession that I am always in love with that keeps me going,” Santizas says in addition to her strengthened faith.C

THE DEDICATED LADY OFFICER For XU Security Guard Rosale Yañez, appreciating her job is worth more than crediting it as her source of income. Because for her, it also highlights her purpose of giving aid and protection to the University, even in the middle of a pandemic.

To survive the day, Yañez mirrors her gratitude by offering the best service she can provide to XU. In her nine years of working at the University, she has been continuously grateful. It is not only her personal goals that provides her willingness, for it also includes the trust and obligation that she holds in XU to keep her going.

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Yañez shares that being a security guard has been challenging even before the pandemic. With the new normal, it’s not only the ambiance of the school grounds that has changed, but also the imposed health protocols in every corner of the University. Despite the health crisis and other challenges, she remains optimistic, “pasalamat lang jud gihapon ko kay miskan nag COVID, naa lang japon koy trabaho.”

In the face of changes, Yañez continues her service by doing it in double now, assuring that no pandemic can take away her willingness to remain on duty amidst the adversity.C

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THE MISSIONARY FORMATOR The prominent director of the XU Student Social Involvement and Advocacy Program (SSIAP), and the man behind #XUTabangLuzon and Siraj MRO—Nestor Banuag.

In his 21 years of service in XU, Banuag’s accomplishments as a director and formator are unsurpassed. With his compassion to help others, he is a man of initiative in the community. However, the pandemic had brought him a heap of challenges, especially when their department was significantly affected by the University’s lay off of employees.

“As of now ten or six nalang mi ka regular […] but I can still see my peers and this is an added value because makita jud nimo ang passion to serve amidst the limitations,” he shares.

In this time of physical distancing, various

platforms are bringing people together through digital donation drives, aiding those who are in need in the country. Banuag’s determination in taking the lead for #XUTabangLuzon has proven how a small-scale initiative could have an enormous impact on others.

From a former Xavier Atenean who mirrors his personal desire in helping others, Banuag’s mission is always rooted in XU’s values and principles.

“My mission is a lifelong process even siguro if mahuman ko sa XU. I still have that mission, that task, and responsibility for the younger generations […] the reason why I’m just enjoying every moment in being always excited sa new things and new learning sa life,” he reiterates.C

THE METICULOUS RULE REGULATOR Maintaining the peace and order of the University became her life for the last 13 years. Within these years of service, she never once imagined the possibility of guarding the University from an unseen enemy.

Being assigned in the main gate, XU Security Guard Jocylyn Apa-ap finds herself fond of meeting different students whom she witnessed come and go. But as the pandemic hit the city, XU was obliged to follow the national order of cutting off face to face classes and shifting to a new means of virtual learning.

As the noise of the University turned quiet,

Apa-ap’s job unexpectedly became harder. She shares, “Mas grabi ang hago sa depensa sa virus kaysa mamadlong ug studyante.”

Together with the campus’ emptiness are the adjustments in her job. From imposing the University’s rules and regulations, the city’s health protocols became an added responsibility in her task of being a security guard. With the new normal, her only wish is for others to follow the health protocols, especially that in this time of pandemic, it is not only students who need protection, but them as well.C

THE IMAGINATION MOVER While working for the XU Kontra COVID relief operation in March 2020, Engr. Dexter Lo thought of wanting to do something about the COVID-19 situation aside from immediate solutions such as relief operations.

“There was an urge in my heart to help,” the XU-Engineering Resource Center (XU-ERC) Founding Director says on coming up with the idea. “I was thinking, let us do something more competency-based that is more related to our competency in engineering and medicine and work on data,” he adds. Thus birthing the award-winning project Web-GRiD, which he created along with Itchon and Vallente. The tool does not only track where Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases are rising but Crusader

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also those who are affected. It also looks for vulnerabilities and weaknesses that the LGU can address.For Lo, it is enough that people are using the tool. The Disaster Risk Management Professor adds, “Didto gyud ma-realize ang dream sa teacher. I’m still a teacher no matter what innovation people know me about.”

The fact that people are using what he taught is already fulfilling enough, adding that his students inspire him to push through.

So far, Lo and his team has already trained six LGU’s on using their tool. He never thought that what once started as a small idea would eventually come to this. “I have the humility to say that God’s plan is really bigger than our dreams.”C www.thecrusaderpublication.ph 7

By Alyssa Chantal P. Moreno & Leinarra Tumarong

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s clichĂŠ as it may be, the University will forever be our second home. With the abrupt transition from face-to-face classes to online learning, students have grown to long for XU. The question remains, when can we expect to go back?

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plans for the students. Vice President for Higher Education Dr. Juliet Q. Dalagan mentions, “One strategy is to allow students to have an overload.

For the second semester, students have the option to enroll a max of 24-27 units. This is part of the catch-up plans.” Alongside the upgrades of the administration and academics, XU upgraded its health service assistance. Health Services Office Director Dr. Augusto C. Guitarte Jr. is ready to accommodate medical and dental consultations online. They still issue Medical Certificates for any occupational clearance XU employees and students may need, and cater to inquiries over phone calls, Facebook, and through email.

Recouping With no options but to survive, XU continues to strive for quality. After having to furlough employees due to decreased enrollment over the past semester, XU still guarantees to extend assistance through continued Grant-in-Aid for employees’ children and remains diligent in providing their monthly rice budget. For scholars, Tan plans to restructure scholarship programs to accommodate more financially-challenged but deserving students.

As we expect the continued flexible learning in the next semester, the University now has plans for students experiencing internet connection

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Photos by Aira May L. Plaga & Melvin P. Villacote

Re-equipping 2021 Several months into the pandemic, XU has faced major changes where the dependence of technology is necessary for maintaining quality education. In this new modality, XU is on the “right track”, Vice President for Administration Edison B. Sasoy mentions. However, the new normal has gradually challenged the teaching process of the faculty members in terms of the deliverance of content creation and incorporating it with the Learning Management System (eLearn). Each department is required to develop a “Primer for

Flexible Learning Delivery” where standardizing content is the next target to further enhance the learning process of the students. Tan mentions, “The academic will remain to be the priority for the second semester as XU keeps on improving the instructional design and delivery of online education to the students.”

Aside from this, many students have struggled with complying with their course requirements due to the lack of laboratory work in their given courses. In accordance with Section A of COVID Advisory No. 7 issued by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), “mass gatherings are prohibited”. At present, the Academic Council is reviewing the lab courses as XU continues to comply with government regulations. The logical plan is to do the laboratory activities at home without the use of expensive equipment, but if it cannot be done, the University must continue to follow Local Government Unit (LGU), Department of Health (DOH), and Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) regulations. “In other words, kung dili siya i-allow, dili nato ma-offer ang mga laboratory na course,” Sasoy informs. Nonetheless, some curricular activities such as recollections will be offered online.

In addition, regarding the missed units brought by the limited study load for the 1st semester, the colleges are preparing for catch-up

Design by Melvin P. Villacote

The New Reality The new normal is the new reality that everyone has to adjust and adapt to, and XU President Fr. Mars Tan, S.J. has been handling the necessary plans for the University. At present, things are still uncertain. However, a Strategic Plan had been crafted in 2019. “In preparation of the centennial year, there is a need to revisit the plan and make necessary adjustments to it given the impacts of the pandemic crisis on the school, mode of learning, the facilities and the skills of human resources,” he reveals. New changes and innovations are about to be made to adapt to the new normal, and to provide holistic quality education to the students, aiming for nothing but excellence despite the pandemic.

problems. XU may allow them to be on campus, as per advisor’s recommendation, to make use of the campus WiFi connection. Reasonably, the entrance fees were reduced and will allow the reimbursement of the expenses for unused facilities to help families who were mostly affected by the receding economy.

The recent semester’s end concluded a significant impact on student’s morale. Because of prolonged stress and pressure, and restrictions limiting their interactions, heads of the university insisted on the reactivation of student’s activities as well as the enhancement of spiritual and psycho-emotional support. Given a regulation to follow, students can now look forward to more recreational quarantine activities, whilst encouraging student leaders to come up with these less-stressful activities. As the COVID-19 days stretch, the COVID health protocols of XU assure a well maintained safe environment for all employees, staff and official visitors. The recent COVID cases in the campus were handled well by the alliance of each Barangays, the DOH, and Red Cross. XU remains at arm’s length with affected employees and students through providing a weekly assistance program.

Positive Possibilities Hopefully, by next academic year—as the vice presidents of each cluster remark—missed units and practical classes will set forth on campus grounds under the government’s authorisation along with XU community’s Cautious Return. By extending regular semesters to summer, in a post-COVID situation, it may still be possible for students to graduate on time. The University President assures that the preparations for the Cautious Return are sure to minimize major adjustments to achieve a seamless shift from virtual to face-to-face learning.

Additionally, Tan mentions that, for courses requiring on-site studies, XU plans to subject students to COVID testing and will need them to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) then isolate them in case of infection.

He adds, “Our students will physically return to campus if and only if all the government authorities will allow it. At this point, most likely, the government will not allow the physical return of students to campus unless they all get vaccinated against the COVID virus. Even with vaccination, XU will continue to take precautionary measures for some time to ensure the safety of everyone on campus.” *** In the current situation, it is still difficult to make out what the future holds. With the stringent regulations and protocols to follow, we might as well expect that these restrictions will last for quite a while unless medical revolutions are born just in time for the next academic year. We might still have to send invite links rather than invite outs, and screenshots instead of photo-ops. In time, we will be standing less than a meter away from the friends we made in the stress-driven classrooms that we haven’t been to for six months. Let us always strive for excellence and stand out, as Tan advises us to realize that in this difficult time, intelligence and talent are not enough. “You have to recognize and develop your grit that is in you from both nature and nurture. Grit is passion and perseverance to succeed amidst hardships in life. It is about staying the course at all costs to achieve a meaningful goal. It is about Ignatian Magis; it is about experiencing excellence in Xavier Ateneo!”C

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rom the outside, TheCrusader Publication, a student-led organization that has been standing for nearly nine decades, easily comes off as an exclusive group merely created for curriculars. It’s a powerhouse of young journalists striving to see the world in a different light and tell the truth as it is.

Inside, however, is a glimpse into a thriving community and, perhaps, the future of modern journalism. One of the most anticipated aspects of the publication is The Crusader TV (CruTV)—an inherent department in sharing stories through films that record important university events and issues. It pioneered storytelling in video format back in 2011 when former Design Editor Joey Sendaydiego thought that a video component was needed. He reminisces on the potential of stories through videos, “Naa man social media that time but it wasn’t as big as it is now... It was just starting.”

Sifting through the sands of time On sacrifices for the department, Sendaydiego admits with a laugh, “Actually, niabot sa point na wala nakoy paki sa akong academics because I figured I was doing something more important… we found our purpose with the publication.” Apart from the academic sacrifices, their experiences actually run the whole spectrum—from renting boats to gather footage of a typhoon’s aftermath, receiving complaints from teachers and nearby department stores, to being chased by people for writing about potential drug use in a bar.

Since then, CruTV has published nearly 100 documentaries and videos that cover a wide array of subjects. Among these include the films about the Misamis Oriental Provincial Jail (MOPJ) inmates and the struggles of the Sumilao farmers.

Their outputs have become a staple of the masses especially in special events such as Intramurals and XU Festival Days.

No time like the present With the advent of social media, the publication receives instant feedback and criticism. Current Video Productions Director Jean Mika M. Aporillo (BSED ‘22) can look on the bright side since the audience is more engaging.

In contrast with today, more individuals get to interact with the videos online and on TV screens within the University premises. Instead of being handled by one person, CruTV is now a fullfledged department with seven staff members and an additional motion graphics subdepartment— creating better animations for previews, logos, and etc. 85 years after the birth of the organization, the members continue to deliver significant stories and important events inside and outside the university. The pursuit of truth with various modes of media, like CruTV’s videos, have gained both a cult following within the university as well as critics.

“If people aren’t mad, then it’s not news. It’s a promotion, an advertisement,” says Sendaydiego about receiving backlash. In this highly polarized world, we must continue to improve modern journalism despite the critics. Through the looking glass that CruTV has created, we can see that our new environment calls for us to fulfill our roles as journalists since we now have a better chance to affect society. In the words of Sendaydiego, “It’s not your job to appease them. You just have to stick to your values and remember that it’s always been about the crusade for truth.”C

By Beth A. Nalam

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Design by Kevin Matthew N. Pacana

From the ground up When CruTV was founded, it was initially a one-man thing with Sendaydiego as the head whilst juggling his role as the Design Editor. He was comfortable with managing the department and was confident that he could pull it off, even on his own. Admittedly, part of him wanted it to look “cool” and they debuted by producing A Day in the Life video featuring Fr. Roberto C. Yap S.J., who was the University President in 2011. “TheCrusader and CruTV were relatively chill at that time,” he adds. However, in an unexpected turn of events, the strongest typhoon of 2011 ravaged CDO. “When it happened we began to take a role in the

University… we were pushing it [communication] on social media. Didto namo first nagamit ang social media in a way na naka-help jud, naay tangible effect,” he states as he wistfully recalls their first time creating infographics with a purpose. Apart from that, the staff also covered various relief efforts within the city and helped keep track of the body count.

In between sleepless nights in the club office and the transition into a more visible role, they had pockets of realization that they were actually doing something. It was in these moments that Sendaydiego shifted his purpose for CruTV from a personal want to a passion project for the people.

COVER STORY

By Abdel Rafi M. Lim & Nia Enrille R. Rabanes

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or TheCrusader Publication, the year 1935 is an era long gone, much of its history now bound to a few fading photographs and early published copies that are now unfortunately unavailable— bombed by American planes during World War II, taking with them the publication’s first printings and the rest of the school grounds. However, such a year remains relevant to this day, 85 long years of closures and bans prompted by multiple external forces, wars, dictatorships, tropical storms, and now a nation-crippling pandemic—the eyes of the mounted knight that safeguards our seal has seen it all. Yet he and his steed stand steady, and not without pride.

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Vol. 47 No. 2 December 2020

Unyielding The Publication, from its beginnings to this point, has yet to yield to the pressures of the years. When the second World War broke out, the publication closed with the school. Yet by the 1950s, TheCrusader resumed publication along with the University in a rehabilitation program.

Not only that, but the paper also made its way to the hands of the community by the 1960s, under the publication name of the “Crusader Newspaper”, serving as the leading college newspaper in Northern Mindanao. From the dusts of a devastating disaster, the paper was fresh from the press in a moment’s time.

Not soon after, TheCrusader took a blow from the national administration itself, when Former President Ferdinand Marcos declared Martial Law in 1972—with it the abolition of student organizations in campuses throughout the country.

To add salt to the wound, when production finally resumed the year after (albeit heavily monitored), the Publication was once again ordered closed by an unnamed Jesuit priest, for reasons now lost

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to history. It was not until 1985 did TheCrusader manage to release its first issue since its ban.

Following the Marcos regime, they were restricted from talking about anything related to the Marcos dictatorship. Hence, TheCrusader made their way under the radar, forming the underground crusader. On top they spat out safe content, underneath they delved into topics others feared to vocalize.

Fast forward into the future—cue torrential rain storms battering through the city, metal roofs torn from their houses, the cries of people left stranded amidst the flood waters—TheCrusader was in the thick of it. In the aftermath of 2011’s Typhoon Sendong, TheCrusader undertook what might have been one of the Publication’s most outstanding coverages. The organization’s staff was stationed throughout the city, noting relief efforts, reporting on body counts, and keeping the populace in the know with live updates. Even in the winds of potential danger, the Publication is unlikely to be swayed.

Today, TheCrusader turned upside down with the rest of the world as the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic took hold—though the virus did little to slow the Publication down.

With the purpose of upkeeping the organization’s standard of providing credible information to the community, the Publication kickstarted a series of infographics posted on various social media platforms, detailing the statistics on COVID-19 cases both on the national and local level.

Additionally, relevant government mandates relating to COVID-19 rules and regulations were closely monitored and reported by the Publication.

Being a historically significant event, TheCrusader published a COVID-19 Special Issue, with articles dissecting the virus, setting myths straight, previewing the new normal, and reporting on University and National affairs amidst the pandemic.

As of press time, the complications of COVID-19 have yet to cease the continued effort of The Crusader Publication.

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Unprejudiced With proving that TheCrusader shall always be able to rise from the tests of adversities, having comebacks after several circumstances of closure over the past years as witness to its strength, along with it is the dedication to uphold that of which serves as the organization’s purpose: The pursuit of truth.

Much of its resources have been expended to unravel this truth, making the most out of every opportunity to make a story be known, capture a scene as it transpires, and record an event that may define history. In this effort, the publication is able to present content that holds no prejudice.

The trend to sensationalize events in order to garner public attention never had to be adopted by the publication. Instead, the capability to

dramatize and stir controversies have been placed in a strategy that doesn’t undermine ethics: through lampoons. Since 1992 when its first lampoon had been published, TheCrusader spares no person, institution, or organization worthy of criticism. Continuing with this form of journalism, in 2010 a satirical article became a staple segment in every issue with an icon that is Cora Contrabida as its face.

Unafraid of composing bold statements, the publication stood with media outlets that have been subjected to censorship. In January 2018 TheCrusader stood with Rappler during their revocation of registration and remained firm with the sentiment: To silence the press is to silence the people. They also released a statement regarding the ABS-CBN shutdown in

the defense of press freedom in May 2020. As a student publication, editorials have also served as avenues to appeal to student concerns. An example of an earlier one includes the campaign against the uniform policy and tuition fee increase in 1995, and a more recent one touches on the interference of classes during Intramurals in 2016. Additionally, editorials concerning societal issues have also been disclosed: in May 2018 TheCrusader participated in a joint editorial with Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) student publication The Guidon and Editorial Boards of the Ateneo community in condemning the decision of the Supreme Court to remove Chief Justice Sereno from the office.

Unbound The duration of which the Publication has remained in service is testament to how its mission and vision resonate with the passionate students who have managed the organization year after year, as well as its readers who have subscribed to every headline it has published.

Every milestone it has reached has shaped the publication into what it is now today.

In every quinquennial celebration, the organization brings forward a refined commitment to embody the essence of campus journalism. Adapting to a sophisticated visual, the official logo has been redesigned in honor of its 75th anniversary in 2010. “Speak Throughout the Ages” has been the theme for its 80th anniversary, commemorating in the form of a photo exhibit its history since its beginnings in 1935. Today, as the year marks another era

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of possibilities, TheCrusader presents itself as a catalyst with the same pursuit and more.

We have seen it in the expansion of its scope from a school paper to a community paper in the 1960’s amidst the predicament it was bound to face with the declaration of Martial Law, and return after numerous closures. We see it not only in the materials it publishes every year: AY Starter Magazine, Sports Magazine, Super Magazine, Veritas Literary and Arts Folio, PreElection Broadsheet, and AY Ender Magazine— not even in the days-long major coverages: Higalaay Festival Coverage, The Xavier Cup Coverage, and XU Festival Days Coverage— but in the annual events as well with Meet the Press and SIBYA, the latter having been founded in 2012 as the first Northern Mindanao Student Communicators Congress. More so,

the organization continues to expand its reach with the establishment of The Crusader TV (CruTV) in 2011. With the advent of COVID-19 and the necessary adjustment of the AY set-up, The Crusader goes online with a relaunch of their official website.

*** The knight and his steed, and his 85 year watch is far from nearing its end. And in the wake of his footsteps, as the dusts of his decadeslong journey billow and rest upon his feet, we get a glimpse of the long road ahead: a path as treacherous and unpredictable as when he first began his journey in the year 1935.

Nevertheless, the pursuit of truth continues— unyielding, unprejudiced, unbound.C

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good government looks after its people. It protects the rights of its citizens and guarantees a safe and harmonious society for said citizens to live in. The Central Student Government (CSG), being the highest seat of student governance in the University, assumes that role by looking after the student body’s welfare and interests. However, with the current pandemic, how efficient are they in extending their services?

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Making good on their promises of good communication, stronger support systems, and growth for all, the CSG pushed through with their plans with the sole purpose of caring for the welfare of the students.

“I personally think they [the implemented projects] are really relevant at this time, especially if the aim is not just for the sake of having it but for the genuine intention of making sure that students are keeping their sanity and for our own mental health,” says Ondap.

However, with the struggles of internet connectivity, a vast population, and students’ individual concerns and issues, delivering such plans do not come easy.

“For relevance, yes it [the implemented projects] is relevant. But for the effectiveness of gaining the attention of the majority of the students, it is a challenge for the CSG to pursue webinars knowing that there are a lot of people in XU,” Ondap adds.

Still, because the CSG understands the challenges brought by the online learning set up and the pandemic as a whole, they implemented these projects for students to have something to look forward to in terms of student activities and involvement.

With their current performance, the second semester looks promising as the CSG has prepared more projects for the student body. In fact, they have retained some projects fit for face to face classes.

“By January, with the hopes of returning to campus, we have projects to be implemented for cautious return. Mostly these are concerts— following health protocols of course—such as Valentine fundraising concerts,” says a hopeful Ondap.

However, if face to face classes do not push through, the CSG promises to start the second semester with a general assembly. They also plan on partnering with Tedx, holding a national Sustainable Development Goals Conference, and establishing the official XU CSG Website.

*** Going back, a government’s most indispensable role is to look out for its people. With all the initiatives produced by the CSG, it can be said that they have looked out for the student body well, even at a time of pandemic. “Let’s hope for a better puhon,” Ondap advises the student body. “For now just sit back in the comfort of your homes, stay involved in the activities of the CSG, and keep yourself healthy, mentally, physically, and emotionally.” With this, there is a certain confidence to be given to the CSG, as their enacted programs and policies show their commitment to serve the student body.“Do remember that your CSG officers and volunteers are here to be your kauban in this journey as we continue to brave the space flight,” concludes Ondap.C

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Design by Derrick Kean A. Auxtero

Even before the onset of the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the CSG has anchored their plans on the promise of good communication between the administration and the students, stronger support system for the student organizations, and a growth-for-all platform for the entire student body.

With the shift to flexible learning, they translated these plans into something suitable for the online set-up.

“We instructed our officers to meet with their departments and plan on how to keep the same content and objectives of the activity while translating the mode of delivery,” says CSG President Matt Anderson G. Ondap.

This then bore fruit to the various webinars, talks, and other online activities during the first semester. One of the most notable webinars was the Office of the Vice President’s Darna Movement, which introduced modern-day “Darnas” such as Philippine Vice President Leni Robredo, Youtuber Janina Vela, Psychologist Riyan Portugez, and Medical Frontliner Dr. Jennifer Advincula.

Additionally, the CSG launched major projects such as: A Guide to Flexible Learning, a manual for students to easily navigate the different online learning platforms; Proyektong Panag-Uban, a fund-raising initiative for student organizations to be given financial assistance; the XU Virtual Boardroom, an extended Zoom platform for students to use for their academic work; and the Social Involvement Summit, a webinar series for student organization and student council officers to be formed and educated on their roles. They also have programs addressing mental health, social welfare and development, and mission and social involvement.

By Levina Eunice O. Palarca & Reina Margaret Gwynette T. Villamor

Design by Derrick Kean A. Auxtero

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n November this year, our news feeds were filled with headlines and opinions circulating around the 2020 United States (US) Elections.

With the sudden crises brought about by the pandemic, political leaderships all over the world were challenged and some people were not satisfied with the actions taken by their government.

The US Presidential Election was the perfect occasion to spark a re-evaluation on what kinds of leaders we need in the seats of our government.

And with the heavy influence of the western world in our country, the Filipino people might want to take notes.

The US influence On the surface, the US had always had a huge influence on the Philippines for decades as seen through history and popular media. But this influence is also deep-rooted on political and economic relations, where one country can benefit from the other.

In terms of trade and investment, the relationship between the US and the Philippines is strong, with the US being the Philippines’ largest foreign investor and third largest trading partner with over $27 billion in goods and services traded, not to mention the shared ideals on democracy and human rights ensure the friendliness between the two countries.

According to Department of Economics Chairperson Jhon Louie B. Sabal, “No matter the election results, the US will always take part of the Philippines because our country is a strategic ally to the US.” The impact of the elections is further magnified as voter turnout in this year’s US elections was the highest since 1900. On Nov 7, Joe Biden was declared President Elect. According

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to the national exit polls, a huge portion of voters in the 18-29 age group supported Biden.

This turn of events might encourage the Filipino youth to vote this Halalan 2022.

A compelling moment The global pandemic caused by Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) was an unforeseeable event that no country would have thoroughly prepared for. It was up to our world leaders to mitigate the effects of the pandemic and for a year, they either had proved themselves effective leaders, or not.

“It requires a compelling moment for people to go out and vote. The compelling moment that pushed people to vote is the COVID-19 pandemic,” Sabal says. He also adds that out of all the rich countries, the US is the only country with the most deaths due to COVID-19.

In the Philippines, many citizens are dissatisfied with President Rodrigo Duterte’s response to the pandemic as well, especially the youth who continue to express their concerns.

With our own upcoming Halalan 2022, is this enough to consider as a compelling moment for us? Or do we need something more?

Why voting matters With all this in mind, the youth must recognize the importance of their voice. They must collectively realize that every election has a significant impact on individual lives and on society as a whole. Thus, they must exercise their right to vote in their own elections, specifically in the coming Halalan 2022.

“It all boils down when [sic] the Filipino youth have a [sic] self-actualization that they can be part of the narrative. That their issue, that their concerns, that the things that they believe, are a factor in electing future leaders,” says Oro Youth

Councilor Kyle Chester J. Cotacte.

Looking at the voter turnout in the US, the Filipino youth must mirror that same energy during Halalan 2022 if they truly want to be part of the narrative.

“It is difficult to imitate because it requires a compelling moment,” Sabal says. He continues by saying that in the Philippines, people need a compelling moment that will awaken even the most apolitical citizens.

“We can emulate that context of the US youth when we have a self-actualization that in governance, in politics, it’s always a relationship between the citizens and the government—that one should really take the other accountable to their actions,” Cotacte adds.

Cotacte also urges the youth to vote wisely.

“Maybe when the issues we are advocating transcend the way we vote during the 2022 elections, then there is a possibility that our political frame of deciding our leaders can change for the better,” he expresses.

*** The 2020 US Elections impacts our economic, political, and social situations. It is also a profound example of the importance of a vote.

Thus, it is a framework that Filipinos may want to follow if they want to enact change in the country. Not only is it an important event in American history, but also an influential one in our own society.C Additional sources: https://www.state.gov/u-s-relations-with-the-philippines/ https://www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/2020/ elections/voter-turnout/ https://www.bbc.com/news/election-us-2020-54783016

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ine months since the Philippines has imposed quarantine mandates to alleviate the repercussions brought about by the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), here is a current overview of the cases within the country.

Since the first reported case on January 30, the Philippines has now had a total of 450,733 confirmed cases of COVID-19 as of press time, December 14. Of the confirmed cases, 23,253 are active, which makes up 5.2% of the total confirmed cases. A total of 418,723 people have recovered from the illness, while a total of 8,757 died.

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As shown in the illustration, August 10 marked the peak of the highest number of recorded cases in a day with 6,958 cases. On August 16, the Philippines also recorded the highest number recoveries in a day with 40,397 recoveries. The National Capital Region (NCR) recorded the most number of total cases among the regions with 203,573 total cases, followed by CALABARZON (Region IV-A) with a total of 82,994 cases, and Central Luzon (Region III) which recorded a total 29,466 total cases.

Data used in the graph are provided

by the Department of Health (Philippines) and World Health Organization Philippines.

Notable developments regarding the country’s management of the pandemic are also highlighted within the timeline.

We urge you to be safe and be informed during these trying times. To report any new developments, contact DOH PH at (02) 894-COVID / 1555 or visit their Facebook page: OfficialDOHgov, twitter: @DOHgovph, or through their website at doh.gov.ph.C Sources: Department of Health and World Health Organization

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Design by Darren Camille C. Tabanera

By Alyssa Chantal P. Moreno

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A Billion Peso Project in CDO With the advent of a new year, local and international governments alike are looking into economic prospects that can help boost developing cities. CDO Mayor Oscar Moreno had recently spoken about the proposed Lunhaw: Building Climate Resiliency for Cagayan de Oro City Project, known as “Project Lunhaw”. It is a project partnered between the Moreno administration and the United Nations Human Settlement Program (UN Habitat) through Urban Plans and Designs (BCRUPD Project – UN Habitat).

In 2016, UN Habitat named CDO as “one the world’s emerging cities”. Due to this, CDO was chosen as a pilot city to work on a project that magnifies resiliency, aiming to thwart the ramifications of climate change. The Technical Working Group (TWG), known to be involved in city planning, concluded on the prospect of Project Lunhaw resulting in the birth of this Php1.22B project. Its urban design is divided into three major areas: Lunhaw East, Lunhaw West, and Lunhaw Central. The scope includes Plaza Divisoria and Isla de Oro.

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Project Lunhaw became doable then due to the Flag Risk Mitigation Program (FRMP), a joint project of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the National Government through the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). In 2011, Tropical Storm Washi, known locally as Sendong, had resulted in severe flooding, loss of lives, and damaged properties. Post-Sendong made it clear for the Moreno administration that embankments had to be put in place to hold back water for flood control, giving rise to FRMP. FRMP calls for the construction of embankments on both sides of Cagayan River from the eastern side of Macabalan to Macasandig, Pelaez Bridge and on the west side, from Bonbon all the way to Balulang. The embankments will have walkways with plans to further improve it. Moreno confirms, “it started in 2013 to 2014 and will be completed in 2022, at the latest 2023.”

A much needed facelift According to the Coronas Climate Classification System of PAGASA, CDO’s climate is under Type III and Type IV. The western portion of CDO (Type III) is characterized by a short dry season from Feb to April, while the eastern portion (Type IV) experiences distributed rainfall during the whole year. With this, the city deals with four climate change issues such as flooding, increased temperature, storm surge, and rain-induced landslides. The main objective was to alleviate these concerns with the utilization of the green strategy in addressing climate change issues with nature-based solutions. The conceptualization

of the project aims to fulfill Lunhaw’s direct translation of “tranquility” and “peace”. The benefits include flood control, improved water, improving urban mobility, increasing agriculture production, and the preservation of urban health.

Environmental protection also allows domestic wastewater from the community to be purified through the biofiltration method done in a large buffer between the city center and the river before being dispatched into the water bodies.

The project seizes to apply the strategy of “Resist” where the approach is to achieve building climate resilience in the next decades.

Aside from this, Project Lunhaw will serve as a tourist spot. The project hopes to serve as an urban-friendly recreational attraction in CDO, allowing the people to continually see the beauty of the city. The project aims to operate as a main central park where both Isla de Oro landslide and the riverside will function as a venue for public rest, recreation, and exercise. The improved waterways of riverbanks will be a great place for people to stay as it will be transformed into a boulevard from one end to the other. This walkable and bikeable park is PWD-friendly encompassing Plaza Divisoria and Riverside Park, an open space for all.

*** “Lunhaw project is a long-term project and it will go far beyond my time. I am now on my third and final term, and I will step down by June 30 of 2022. But I hope that the people will continue to embrace the project and support it,” Moreno finishes.C

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Design by Kevin Matthew N. Pacana

makeover is about to be made in the city. Reaching for greater heights, Plaza Divisoria will soon become the center of attraction as it transforms into a walkable and bikeable heritage park. Setting the bar high, Higalas will be expecting a spacious environment with a lush scenery of the city. Features include bike lanes, a mangrove walk, a playground, a sports zone, a fishing dock, and even picnic grounds. Such an exciting plan is coming soon.

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to me for guidance and assistance. As practice to become the next president, I’ve also opted to send out notices and announcements about my campaign in the middle of the night, sometimes even at the brink of dawn! I like to think what I have to say is of great import, and that I am in a very advantageous position of having other people adjust for me and never vice versa. And to think that I haven’t even won the election yet! Imagine the press begging for a glimpse of me at three in the morning during the most troubling times of our country. I never knew being this powerful was also this comfortable. Sarap ng buhay! Ganito na lang tayo palagi ah!

“

I will be the resiliency that keeps this country afloat. Who knows if we’ll have a need for a government then?”

bagyo ah,” they said. Well, they haven’t met me.

Not only will I become the next president because they told me to, but I will prove to them that I can be better than those before me.

I will train day in and day out, through rain or through shine, to swim upcurrent and traverse floodwaters, without the Presidential Security Group (PSG) stopping me from trying. I will become my own rescue team, a one woman army, a presidential mutant superhero—because that is what’s expected of me.

If I become president, I won’t be there to be the face and voice of the country, I won’t just stand there and be the symbol of strength against calamity, be the hope that those who govern us will be those who protect us—I will go up face to face with Death himself, and order him to wait until a vaccine is ready before he starts killing my people, because that is who I am—no longer a concerned citizen communicating my concerns for my country, but the complete embodiment of Filipino resiliency itself. I will be the resiliency that keeps this country afloat. Who knows if we’ll have a need for a government then?

If, for any reason, that I cannot perform my duties as the President of the Republic of the Philippines, I urge you, my dear citizens, not to take on the streets and protest my incompetence, not to voice your concerns over my ineptitude on social media platforms, and not to gather as a nation to call out for my resignation—because I will offer to step down myself. Although I won’t the first time of course. Neither the second time, nor the third. I will send a sad boi group message to all of you like it’s 2013, guilt you for the burden that you put on me as a president since tao pa rin ako, and thank you for the memories. Expertise in gaslighting the common folk was no. three in skills needed for presidency. Don’t ask me what the first and second were (proficiency in profanity and a mastery for cleanup projects).

All in all, my future looks bright. Gone are the days of being shackled by social media, and gone are my futile attempts to make our concerns known to those who govern us—I can finally make a tangible impact in society. Because that is the true way—the only way, in fact.

The only way to be of service to this country is to be the president.

And be the president I shall.C

But the challenge to become the best president in the history of the Philippines doesn’t stop there. I have one thing left to do, one thing that has kept the presidential position powerless and incapable of protecting its own people. They said our president couldn’t help with the Typhoons and the victims of its aftermath because the president wasn’t physically capable of stopping natural disasters. “Di naman kaya pigilan ng pangulo ang

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Illustration by Jayson Elvie G. Ty

he sharp, acidic pang of tarpaulin ink takes over me. I am both nauseated and excited by the stench, for it is the smell of victory— the victory that will be won over by the confident yet polite political smile, the self-assured yet approachable posture, and the words, “Ako na lang mag presidente!”, plastered in big, bold, red on a background of cloudy blue skies. For I, Cora Contrabida, the longest standing student of the University and by far, the most ‘daming sabe of them all, will run for President of the Republic of the Philippines.

Finally, may maiaambag na ako!

It took me a good second, but when the passionate bots and trolls of Facebook suggested na ako na lang mag presidente after I posted a heavily researched and meticulously worded critique of the administration, I realized, what was stopping me? It was at that moment that the world became my oyster.

So I prepared, and I began my journey of climbing the national political ladder and ousting he who shall not be named by myself. They made it sound so easy: if you thought the government could be doing better, why not do it yourself? As if having an opinion equates to immediately being qualified. As they say, everyone’s a critic—now everyone’s a president I guess!

It’s high time I put the welfare of this country into my own hands.

Printing my 4x6 campaign tarpaulin was only the first task in my to do list. I had an entire day of exciting workshops and self-help sessions on being the best president my loving trolls could ever hope for. Next thing on the list: capturing the hearts of my voters through song and dance. Some may not know this, but being a competent politician comes only second to being a top notch entertainer. After all, those with aspirations in the field of politics do become rising celebrity sensations in the eyes of the public. When I become a politician, I am to be adored, to be worshipped, to be sung with praises, and to be protected by those who would dare defile my image—and the only way to do that is through dancing the budots. So dance the budots I will.

On another note, I have also enrolled myself to a nighttime foreign language class in a local University to freshen up on my Mandarin.

International diplomatic ties should still be upheld even when I’m president, so I thought it best to keep our bond with the motherland strong and indisputable. I wouldn’t want all that shameless sucking up to a global superpower be all for naught. Province of ChiChi whomst’ve?

I’ve also started my own Facebook page, called Alliance of Committed Cora Defenders, and from what I can see, there’s been a very significant surge of followers from Facebook profiles that were created only this month. Let me tell you, the support is overwhelming and very much welcome! I vowed to put my extensive platform to great use, it’s not everyday I get to speak on behalf of my constituents who are looking up

Kurisword KURISword

Dear Ate Charot

nI ED

ni ed

Across 3 The “M” in SLMIS 7 Part of the new normal 8 “____ call us to fight, Ateneans we advance!”

9 Celebrated every year 10 Widespread in 2020 11 A leading ASEAN university forming leaders of character by ____ 14 Found somewhere in one day 15 An orientation seminar

16 Online class meeting place 17 This place is on fire Down 1 2 4 5 6 12 13

Tawaga nalang ko sa pangalang Moira.

Tama ka sa narinig mo Moira ate charot pero dili katung singer. Moira E ang tawag sa ako sa akong mga amiga kay murag daw gilanlan nako ang Myra E sa kaputi nako. ChaR! Bitaw Ate kanang problema na sad ni sa akong bebelabs, normal raba na nga mingawon jud ka sa imung uyab?

Kay kanang Ate muoli na sya sa ilang probinsya unya mahadlok ko ate na makakita syag lain didto na mas puti pa kay sa akoa..ambot na lang kung tao na toh or white lady na..anyways, ate wala koy mahimo kay iyang pamilya ang nag ingon na muoli na sya and wala koy mabuhat ate kundi magtiktok nalang ug “It’s me and my jowa waah..uuwi na uuwi na sya waah.. maghahanap ng iba maghahanap ng iba waah” wala sya kapugong ug hug sa akoa. Sakit kaayo Ate. Bulagan nalang nako sya or magpadayun gyapun? Anung masasabi nyo po Ate Charot?

Dear Moira E, Ghurl, wait kailangan kung huminga, okay game. Sa imuhang sitwasyon dili maguol Moi. Matud pa sa bolang krystal nako, padayun sa life, bulaga na siya, Charot!. Dili lang ikaw ang babae sa iyahang kinabuhi ghurl daghan kaayo pa diha iyahang makita.

It is time to let go mintras sayo pa kaayo. Ikaw lang yan Moi, ayaw kabalaka naay muabot sa imuha na mas better ug mas deserving kaysa sa iyaha, Charot!. Dili maguol, end your relationship with a bang kay hapit na mahuman ang 2020, humana nana mintras sayo pa. Moira E is Moira E, andam andam kay basin naa pay paabutay sa 2021, Abangan! Charot.

A kind of detention except longer For group work meetings Fever deadly to pigs Was shutdown The “S” in OSA Not false Video lecture helper

To join: Photocopy this kurisword with your answers and submit your entry to thecrusaderpub@gmail.com with your fullname and contact number. Lucky participants will receive limited edition collectables.

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Vol. 47 No. 2 December 2020

KURISCOPE ni zel

ed

Annyeong haseyo! mga ka-mags, nia nasad inyung ginahulatan! ang panibagong mahiwagang bolang krystal ni Zel. Karun na hapit na muabot ang pasko ug new year kinahanglan makabalo ka sa imung kapalaran ug kung unsa ka kaswerte ka-mags!

Aquarius (Lucky dream) Inig lakaw nimo sa canteen, makakita kag maanyag nga nilalang. Kalma lang besh, nagkita namo sa damgo. Mala encantadia biya inyong lovestory, maong wait for the right time nalng jud kay lami kag lovelife sa unahan.

Lucky Number: 111

Lucky Day: Makakita kag altocumulus clouds

zel

Aries (The lucky one peso) Lami mo-luto, nature lover, buotan ..HOLA! Bigyan ng jacket yan!

Bitaw ouyys, basin maswertihan ka makakakita kag piso sa dalan ayaw lang pud iignore, punita jud dzai! Malay mo yun na ang sagot sa hiling mo.

Lucky Number: 20

Cancer (Shy type but byotipol) Nakita nako sa bolang crystal nga nakatunob kag tae sa iro. Ayaw na lagi pag tago-tago meem! Akong advise nimo mo-undang nakag gamit og beauty cam, gamit nalang og beauty soap kay gwapa man ka “ skin care lang jud” Lucky Number: 7

kurt

Lucky Day: Anniversary sa imong mader og pader

Lucky Day: Holy friday

Capricorn (Xmas gift) Kumusta naman ka ouyhh!dasig pa ba ta? Sad kaayo nohh? Mag 2021 nalang taman picture ra japon nimo makita si krasss. Don’t worry dzai hapit na christmas, pangayoa nalang siya as X-mas gift para okehh keeyohh!

Lucky Number: 120

Lucky Day: Cloudy day madam

Gemini (Stress in the mirror) Ayaw na cge og ka stress sa imong pimples, Dzuh its perfectly normal! Maong advice ni madam, ayaw cge og tan aw sa samin.

One fine day naay mukalit og compliment sa imong nawong.. dibahh, ma surprise ka? Kabalo ka dai life is full of surprises biya!

IGIT

Lucky Number: 2

Lucky Day: Birthday sa imong bestfriend

Leo (Mala bitter-queen) Bugnaw kaayo kag kasing kasing dai, sama ka bugnaw sa letter D nimo nga grado sa math, gusto ka I-marinate na nato? Charhh, dzaii sakto na ang pasakit kay bisan unsaon nimog palayo ,dagan og tago mapandol ra japon kas unahan! Maong advice ni madam “lavan dzaii , conquer your fears” happy lang dapat.

kurt

Lucky Number: 14

Libra (Bet na bet) Ikaw na jud besh ! bet na bet kaayog strategy sa life, lamig lifestyle pero pagbantay kay basin mabanggaan unya kag sikad sa unahan.

Lisod na jud og ma shoot kas kanal unya ang driver kay imong Ex ,dawbi? Ganahan ka?

Lucky Number: 21

Lucky Day: Every sunday

Pisces (Tanggang lovelife) Ang sabi ng bolang crystal Madam , wala daw kay linong-ag nga dili masunog. Ayaw na lagi biyai permi , dapat bantayan jud na nimo , focus permi para walay masayang charh! Diba? Relate sa imong lovelife noh? Pasagdan ra man gud nimo siya, charoot! Spread love, happy lang no ending Lucky Number: 90

zel

Lucky Day: The moment mapakog imong ulo sa jeep

Lucky Day: New year

Taurus (Smart but titibok-tibok) Memsh oral recit nah nakulbaan ka? Ayaw pagpadala ana imong gibati kay maka -utot unya kag ahat, kabalo ka mamsh outstanding kaayo ka nga pagkastudyante. Ayaw na pagkulba kulba para wala nakay ma missed na points, dahil ramdam ko ang energhiya ng pagiging dean’s lister mo Lucky Number: 99

Lucky Day: Independence day

kurt

Virgo (Net savvy) Updated permi sa mga social-media platforms, Wow! Ikaw na jud.

Ipa KMJS taka ron , Charot lang,, bitaw pagbantay jud indai sa cge nimog scroll scroll makakita unya kag Gwapo nga nilalang, basin makalimot ka nga finals na ninyo. Impas jud kang bataa ka.

Lucky Number: 1200

IGIT

Lucky Number: 100

Crusader

The

Lucky Day: every 11:59 sa gabii

Sagittarius (The goghourl) Gang, musta man ang online class? Dili ra kaayo kapoy mag sigi og Google sa answer? Char lang. Bitaw, padayon lang sa life bayeett, lipaya permi imong self kay pag face to face class na, wala na juy mahitabo nga google sa answer, kasaba sa prof imong maatubang maong cherish the moment Dzai!

Lucky Day: First day of school besh

Scorpio (Online crush) Wala nay makapildi sa imong pagka punctual Miga, Azz innn focus kaayo sa online class..wala juy absent. Unya bukod sa sigi nimong tinotok sa imong crushmate ghourl unsa pamay laing natun an nimo ? nah mograduate jud ka anang kalaki nimo , Oopps no more denies “ Aminiiinn”!

Lucky Number: 31

Lucky Day: Everyday

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