"The English Press" Vol. 2, Issue 1

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SEARCHING FOR TRUTH

Men have long journeyed to search for truth. But in this world full of lies and half-truths, our search is characterized by uncertainties and detours that humans may struggle to process.

It is said that to help us understand how the truth can differ in different contexts, we utilize four categories: 1) objective truth, 2) subjective truth, 3) normative truth, and 4) positive truth. It is evident that the definition of truth can vary depending on the context in which the term is used. Hence, there are many truths in this world, and our obligation then is to differentiate the truth that shall bring us peace from the lies, distortion, and half-truth that seemed to have become the order of the day.

This Volume 2, Issue 1 of The English Press is an attempt to scour for truths from different topics, events, and moments that affected our existence both as students and as humans. We have come to realize that nothing in life is random at all. Things that happen around us touch some chords that vibrate in someone else’s life and being. This interrelatedness in life is what makes living more meaningful and worthwhile.

Let us take you, our dear readers, to many interesting topics that we curated in this magazine — from the pope, to language, to music, to culture, and to student life, we have a hodgepodge of articles in store for you.

For in every search for truth and reason, it always begins with a single step, single story, single magazine flip at a time.

Happy searching and reading!

PHILIP JOHN B. TABADA Editor in Chief

Table of Contents

‘The English Press’ Editorial Board turns over magazine copies to KEPLRC

BAEL students take USM Streets to the next level, tackle societal issues

In defense of the English Majors: Honoring the power of Language and Literature

“You should have removed your face veil’: The harsh encounters of a niqabi

EDITORIAL BOARD

Second Semester, SY 2022-2023

Editor in Chief PHILIP JOHN TABADA

Associate Editor BONETTA UNDALAYAN

Managing Editor DANICA ZYNN DIAZ Feature Editor FRANZ CASTRO

News Editor ERICA MAE DUYONGAN

Literary Editor VANZANDTH KERR OCHAVILLO

Circulation Manager DAVE JOHN CRUTO

Writers

MADZNA AMPAT

SHERYL JOY BIBAT

LAUREL ONYX CABILES

JESSA MAE ELECHICON

ALPHA LOISA GEN ENOC

ROHANIE GUIAMELIL

JOAHNNAA SHANE LOPEZ

ZENAIDA LUMAMBAS

CRYSTAL MACAYLAS

ROMAYNA MAMALUBA

PRINCESS ELUIDA MAMANTAR

DIVINA GRACE MAULIT

CARLA MAE MOLINA

WENDY PALERO

MARIEL PATARAY

JAYNIE KAYE PORRAS

JC THADDEUS PROVIDA

FAMELA QUIÑONES

NOVA QUIÑONES

ROMMEL QUIÑONES

MARIEL ROLLORATA

ZULPIKAR SAWA

MAHARTA SILONGAN

ANGELICA TABARANZA

NORHAYYA TALILISAN

JZET HENRIK TANDOG

FRANCIS ALLEN VILLANUEVA

Adviser

PROF. LLOYD ANTON VON M.COLITA

Consultants

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Addressing the issue: Ventilation probelms in schools

Technology and digital divide: Issues related to internet connection

Lost in translation: Unveiling the misinterpretation of ‘Boys’ Love’ in PH media

“Tears in the Grain”

DR. DONNIE M. TULUD, DR. MIRASOL O. VERONA, PROF. MICHAEL D. DERLA, PROF. ESTELLA B. BARBOSA, PROF. ELANGBAI K. BALAWAG

Overall Consultant

DR. ORFELINA M. AJERO

DISCLAIMER:

Opinions expressed in this biannual magazine are solely those of the writers and do not represent the Department, the College, and the University.

HOW TO REACH US

Department of English Language and Literature, College of Arts and Social Sciences, University of Southern Mindanao, Kabacan, North Cotabato 9407

dellusmmain@gmail.com

(064) 572 2138

BAEL students present paper, poster at International Conference on Linguistics

Two 4th year Bachelor of Arts in English Language (BAEL) students from the College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS) in University of Southern Mindanao (USM) presented their research paper and poster at the 5th Linguistic Society of the Philippines International Conference (LSPIC) on April 27-29, 2023 at the Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology, Iligan City.

Francis D. Castro presented his paper entitled “Healthscapes in the Spotlight: A Social Semiotics Inquiry”. Healthscapes, or commonly known as health-related signs, centered on health that focuses beyond clinic. Utilizing social semiotics as methodological approach in interpreting multimodal resources, his paper sought to explore the semiotic resources and their meanings in the thirty-two (32) healthrelated signs found in Koronadal City.

“The findings of my paper indicate that the healthscapes inform, command and ask the public to respond to healthrelated issues. The visual and textual information create an interaction to produce meaning in different levels, specifically, descriptive, informational, symbolic, and expressive,” Castro said. “Further, healthscapes employed several semiotic modes to strengthen the rationale and narrative behind the signs. Hence, these modes interplay

together for meaning-making,” he added.

Philip John B. Tabada presented his poster entitled “Social Media Political Posters of the Philippine Elections: A Multimodal Discourse Analysis”. His paper looked into representational meaning, interactional meaning, and compositional meaning of nineteen (19) political posters of the 2022 Philippine elections were analyzed through multimodal discourse analysis.

“My study revealed that the nineteen (19) political posters employed several semiotic resources, each of which has its purpose and functions,” Tabada shared. “The meanings of the political posters were constructed by combining words, visuals, and numerous multimodal elements. Also, the political posters represent political influence and power. This paper strengthens the idea that multimodal discourse analysis is necessary to analyze and understand the embedded meanings in political posters,” he added.

Castro and Tabada were accompanied by their thesis adviser Prof. Estella B. Barbosa from the Department of English Language and Literature, CASS.

“The conference was insightful, fulfilling, and humbling experience. I am happy that the research papers of my advisees were accepted for presentation here

in LSPIC which provides space for sharing knowledge and creates avenue to build networks,” said Prof. Barbosa.

Internationally renowned academics in the field of linguistics served as keynote and plenary speakers. Dr. David Eberhard, general editor of Ethnologue, talked on “Community Agency and its Role in the Future of Minority Languages: What We Can Learn from Both ‘Grassroots’ and ‘Facilitated’ Efforts in Communitybased Language Development”.

Dr. Kornwipa Poonpon, from Khon Kaen University, delivered a talk on “Crossing the Boundaries of Two Fields: What Can Corpus Linguistics Offer HighStakes Academic Writing Assessment?”. Dr. Steven Patrick Fernandez, from MSU-IIT, delivered his lecture on “The Grammar of Images and Nonverbal Texts as Manifestations of Culture”.

Dr. James McLellan, from Universiti Brunei Darussalam, gave a talk on “The ‘How’ Question: How Can We Decenter, Decolonize, and Deconstruct Languages?”. Dr. Azirah Hashim, professor emeritus from University of Malaya, gave a lecture on “Internationalization of Higher Education and English as a Medium of Instruction in ASEAN”.

Lloyd Anton Von M. Colita

‘TheEnglishPress’ Editorial Board turns over magazine copies to KEPLRC

John Philip Tabada

The Editorial Board of “The English Press”, the official student publication of Bachelor of Arts in English Language (BAEL) program, handed over copies of the first and second issues of their magazine to Kundo E. Pahm Learning Resource Center (KEPLRC).

The magazines were formally accepted by KEPLRC Director Prof. Susan Martinez together with librarians Prof. Ariel Arrogante and Prof. Lilian Clarito. Published by Department of English Language and Literature (DELL) under College of Arts and Social Sciences, ‘The English Press’ is registered at the National Library of the Philippines with ISSN Certificate

of Registration Number 2945-4948.

“The English Press” was organized in June last year by Batch 2022 BAEL graduates for their ELc421 subject “Language and Journalism” under Prof. Lloyd Anton Von M. Colita. “It all started as a final requirement for their subject which eventually became a full-blown magazine,” shared Prof. Colita.

“I congratulate the current editorial board comprised of 3rd year BAEL students for rising up to the challenge and releasing the Volume 1, Issue 2,” he added.

Prof. Martinez thanked the editorial board and issued an acknowledgment receipt

for the magazines donated to the KEPLRC.

“The English Press” Volume 1, Issue 2 Editorial Board is composed of Editor in Chief John Carlo Villarin, Associate Editor Raheema Undong, Managing Editor Leigh Miniano, Feature Editor Fria Mecca Pajel, News Editor Jhenmark Jose, Literary Editor Jonalyn Cadiz, Art Editor Lovely Jane Balonda, and Circulation Manager Rahima Cabunto.

“The English Press” has also applied to be a member of The Mindanao Tech’s League of Campus Publications, a confederation of all student-run publications in the University of Southern Mindanao main campus.

Making history, BAEL student publishes research in MJSELT

Bonetta Undalayan

JC Thaddeus Provida, a senior AB English Language (BAEL) student of University of Southern Mindanao, made history as the first BAEL student who published his undergraduate research paper in Modern Journal of Studies in English Language Teaching and Literature (MJSELT).

In a post by Provida’s adviser and coauthor Dr. Glyn G. Magbanua, she lauded him for this milestone. “Today you have made your mark in history by becoming the first AB English student to have published a paper in a peer-reviewed journal, an honor that will forever belong to you”.

“Thank you for taking on the challenge, for believing in yourself, and in me,” Dr. Magbanua added. Published twice a year, MJSELT is is an international, academic, and refereed publication that aims to report the latest studies in English language, language teaching, and literature.

“Proficiency, Anxiety, and Corrective Feedback Preferences among ESL Learners” was published in Volume 5, Issue 1, June 2023 edition of MJSELT.

BAEL students take USM streets to the next level, tackle societal issues

Baffled. Puzzled. Mystified. These were the initial reactions of USMians upon witnessing the firstever Performance Art in the history of University of Southern Mindanao (USM) yesterday, February 28, at the USM Landmark and Founder’s Avenue.

Mark Nesty Micator and Joemarie Mamaco Batol, 3rd year and 2nd year students of Bachelor of Arts in English Language (BAEL), respectively, transformed public spaces into an artistic expression where their bodies became the primary medium and time, space, and their presence were the fundamental components.

In an interview, spectators shared about their first impression and interpretation of the said artistic exhibit.

Aldrin Flores of 3BSE-English expected a crowd of performers who will tread along the College of Business, Development, Economic and Management (CBDEM) Building to the Founder’s Marker.

“Nagulat ako kasi dalawa lang sila, but as an English Major, to witness a living art was ineffable,” Flores said. He further explained the symbolism of a man dragging the tires as weights that people tend to carry off their shoulder.

“It’s like ourselves before—which is ‘yong mga past experiences natin na mahirap i-let go. Feeling na kahit gusto mo na i-let go pero nandoon pa rin yung connection na hindi mo kayang bitawan

yung mga burdens na yon,” he said.

“While the painted man was like blending in with the clouds. I see it as if he’s trying to hide from the society. He’s trying to hide himself and change into another person,” he added. One of the spectators, Johana Lintongan, was confused at first then she realized a connection between the two performances later on.

“The man in white paint, I was not really sure what he was doing at first. But, when he started pouring the white paint in his body, parang nagmamalinis lang siya,” she mentioned.

“Habang binubuhos n’ya ang paint sa katawan nya, may expression sa mukha n’ya na superior siya tingnan. Sa point of view ko, he seemed proud habang ginagawa ‘yon—na parang kahit katiting na dumi ng pagkatao niya ay di na makikita,” Lintongan emphasized.

She also stressed the symbol of resilience of the first actor who moved forward despite being tied to the tires. “Kahit marami siyang pinagdadaanan sa buhay, mas pinili niya na mag move forward. Kahit may leash na nakatali sa kaniya, which is pwedeng mga problems,” she further shared. Further, 3rd year BAEL student John

Carlo Villarin pointed out the obsession of people nowadays to whitening products such as glutathione to live up to the beauty standard of the society.

“There’s nothing wrong actually with that. However, people are really subscribing to the whitening beauty standard wherein whiter people are more beautiful. The reality nowadays is that people are not really confident with their skin color,” he said, referring to the artist in white paint.

When asked about his thoughts about the first performance, he compared the art to the prevalent issue of oil price hike in our society.

“The first performance shows the reality of transportation and humanity. Supposedly, transportation is made to help us reach places. But today, we are the ones being controlled by the transportation especially the increasing gas prices. It’s like transportation is another mouth to feed,” he underscored.

Meanwhile, Micator, the artist behind the “White Man”, felt fulfilled to be able to contribute in a new form of innovation in the campus.

“I felt great making a message out of art through my own body. Although, it was my first time doing that kind of performance, I didn’t feel nervous. Instead,

I felt confident while pouring white paint all over my body,” Micator said.

The performance was done in celebration of the National Arts Month with the theme “Ani ng Sining, Bunga ng Galing.”

Princess Wyeth Domingo

Pope Francis takes a stand against criminalizing LGBT people

Pope Francis’ declaration that criminalizing LGBT people is a “sin” and an “injustice” shocked the entire world. An important turning point was reached when the Pope questioned the Catholic Community’s or Church’s longstanding position on homosexuality.

The LGBT community has embraced the Pope’s remarks, and human rights organizations have praised his courageous leadership in speaking out against prejudice and advancing inclusivity and acceptance of LGBT people which is a big step for the Catholic Church and a benchmark for greater acceptance and tolerance of the LGBT both inside and

outside the Church.

Moreover, the Pope’s message sends a strong and potent note to nations where laws criminalizing homosexuality still exist, especially in light of the ongoing fight for LGBT rights around the world.

It demands a reform in government regulations and emphasizes the significance of defending the rights of every person, regardless of gender identity.

The Pope’s stance has also, however, drawn rebuke and opposition from other groups. Some people charged him with

diluting the Church’s doctrines, while others were concerned about how this message would affect the relationship of the church with its members.

Pope Francis has already advocated for the need to uphold and defend the rights of LGBT individuals. When asked about LGBT priests in 2013, he was quoted as saying, “Who am I to judge?” Since then, he has persisted in speaking out for the rights of LGBT people, urging an end to prejudice and pleading for Catholics to treat and love everyone with respect, regardless of sexual orientation.

Evil personified: Dogs shot by London cops

Joahnnaa Shane Lopez

Two American Staffordshire Terriers named Millions and Marshall were fatally killed by Metropolitan Police officers in London, following a report that the dogs allegedly attacked a woman on East London last Sunday, May 14, 2023.

Louie Turnbull, a 46-year old homeless man, and the owner of the dogs was charged with ownership of dangerously out-of-control dogs and has appeared in court. Turnbull, on his defense, claimed that when the police released weapons, he and the dogs became terrified. “They pulled out all their weapons.

They were intimidating me and the dogs. And all they were doing was trying to protect me. I had them on the lead, I was pulling them away, and they just murdered them,” he said.

The woman who was reportedly attacked by the dogs on the other hand, claimed that she never wanted the police to get involved in the situation.

The controversial killings of the 3 yearold Marshall, and 9-month old Millions ignited vigils and sparked protests

and calls for justice across the world, with many people demanding for the involved law enforcement officers to be held ‘ accountable’ for the inconsolable death of the two terriers.

Philip John Tabada

In defense of the English Majors: Honoring the power of Language and Literature

English majors are frequently subjected to unjustified criticism and skepticism about the usefulness and value of their chosen field of study.

In this article, we promote for a paradigm change and celebrate the enormous benefits and significance of majoring in English.

Let us debunk myths and appreciate the important role that English majors play in molding society, developing critical thinking, and maintaining the diversity of human expression.

Communication, analytical, and critical thinking skills are just few strong points for English majors that are relevant to everyone nowadays. Students who major in English have a strong understanding of language, communication, and rhetoric.

Students majoring in English gain the ability to embrace ambiguity, consider many viewpoints, and adjust to new circumstances. These abilities are essential in a society that is always changing and calls for innovation and creative problem-solving.

Literature also stimulates emotions and enables readers to relate to a variety of characters and their situations. Understanding and relating to people on a deeper level is made possible by engaging with many narratives.

For their dedication to the study of language, literature, and critical thought, English majors deserve praise and admiration. They develop vital talents through their pursuit of knowledge that go beyond the realm of academia and benefit society.

Their ability to communicate ideas clearly, have meaningful conversations, and bridge communication gaps is a result of their competence. English majors bring important abilities to the table in a world where clear communication is essential in all industries. Similar to this, reading complex works and studying literature develop analytical and critical thinking abilities that are useful in a variety of professional contexts.

The capacity to analyze material, combine ideas, and create compelling arguments is a skill that English majors acquire that is extremely valuable in professions like law, journalism, marketing, and business. As they study literatures, English majors also develop their creativity, adaptability, empathy, and emotional intelligence. The study of literature fosters imagination, creativity, and the capacity for imaginative thinking.

English majors who do this develop their empathy and emotional intelligence, which is a vital skill for establishing inclusive and sympathetic communities. The preservation and interpretation of literary and cultural legacy is profoundly reliant on English majors. They make sure that significant literary works are remembered and continue to have an impact on future generations. Their research promotes with recognizing of various viewpoints and opinions as well as the preservation of collective memory.

For their dedication to the study of language, literature, and critical thought, English majors deserve praise and admiration. They develop vital talents through their pursuit of knowledge that go beyond the realm of academia and benefit society.

Let us recognize the significant contributions made by English majors and honor their vital part in shaping society, creating empathy, and navigating the complexity of the human experience. The torchbearers of language and literature, English majors lead us to a more informed and compassionate world.

Danica Zynn Diaz

Hidden jewel of the Philippine music industry

Joahnnaa Shane Lopez

Everyone has an undeniably exceptional relationship with music. One’s eyes can practically see it everywhere, from a daily walk in the park and morning exercises to a long commute to school or office, most people’s ears are plugged with earphones - wired or Bluetooth, you name it - muffling the sounds of the outside world, creating a soft wall that seemingly separates them from the loud, pesky sounds of the roaring vehicles and chatters of passersby.

Filipinos, moreover, are evident to have a special connection with music. For most people in the country, a get-together with family and friends won’t be complete without a karaoke session, and Filipinos are also fans of underground gigs. Everyone who loves music would die for a jam that they could sing along with their friends and could highly relate to. Globally produced music, indeed, sounds enigmatic and trendy, but nothing beats good old music from our country.

enough to find them. I consider Indie music as an art form that it not tainted by the music industry. It is the most genuine form of art since the artists are free to showcase what their vision.” He said.

One thing that makes Indie music stand out from mainstream ones is the liberty from possible restraints to the artistic freedom of the artists in terms of the type of music they record, from the way their music sounds to the how the lyrics are written. In other words, Indie artists have more freedom in terms of expressing their creativity in their songs.

The term Original Pinoy Music, or OPM, was coined by Danny Javier of the APO Hiking Society during the 70s and 80s to describe pop ballad music during the time, and years later, it came to represent all music from the Philippines, regardless of genre.

The term Original Pinoy Music, or OPM, was coined by Danny Javier of the APO Hiking Society during the 70s and 80s to describe pop ballad music during the time, and years later, it came to represent all music from the Philippines, regardless of genre.

With time over five recording labels were founded, catering to the creativity of Filipino singer- songwriters and bands. In the ‘90s and ‘00s, notable bands such as Eraserheads, Parokya Ni Edgar, Rivermaya, Kamikazee, and together with other bands and solo artists, reigned OPM, having their songs played in walkmans, MP3 players, and radio stations then, and being streamed in popular music platforms now.

With the aid of various social media platforms, the increasing necessity of the internet, and the the popularity of online music outlets, publicity becomes manageable not only to record label artists but also to many Indie Filipino artists.

Indie is a term used to describe an artist not signed to any major record label. It means that recording, including the distribution and promotion of the artists’ music, is done independently or outside the control of any record label. Someone who passionately loves music, and treat their connection with it as something intimate – shared only between themselves and their favorite artist – are more interested in listening to Indie music, rather than the mainstream ones. In an interview, Laurehl Onyx Cabilles, one of the students in 4th Year Bachelor fr Arts in

English Language in the University of Southern Mindanao gives out the reasons why he prefer indie music rather than popular ones. “Indie music is like a precious jewel. You have to dig deep

Solo artist like Reese Lansangan and the band Dilaw, composed of Dilaw Obrero (lead singer and lyric-writer), Vic Viloria (on guitars), Tobi Samsons (on drums), Wayne de la Rosa (on bass guitar), Leon Almonte (on guitar), and EN Almonte (on keyboards), are some of the Indie artist from the Philippines who employ different genres in their music and garner thousands of monthly listeners on Spotify.

On May 2020, two songs of Reese Lansangan, namely, A Song About Space and An Opportunity to Go to the Moon were featured in NASA’s historical Launch America campaign and their Moon Kit promos, respectively.

The alternative band Dilaw , in addition,and ther song, Uhaw, has been No. 1 in the local hit charts for the past six weeks, and was recently declared for the most streamed song in the Philippines in 24 hours this year on Spotify, also being No. 1 on Youtube and in the Billboard Global Philippines chart.

On the other hand, It is a fact that record labels make it easier for artists to endorse their songs and that many artists from the Philippines gained thousands of listeners – some millions even – not only within the country but overseas as well; however, it is also notable that independent music artists in the Philippines gain fanbases and numerous monthly listeners through their own ways of promoting their music, only that, sometimes, they do not get enough recognition.

There are a lot or beautiful music made by Pinoy record labels, that’s for sure, but it does feel good to find a local music, something that is rare but musical. Indie OPM artists are not only advocates of the uniqueness of Philippine music, they also showcase how creative Filipinos are, from producing folk-pop music, to songs of fused genres.

Here are some playlists you can surely enjoy on Spotify: OPM Indie Hits 2023 by buntala, OPM Indie Chill by Jam, OPM Indie Finds by binibining yena, and Pinoy Indie Mix by Spotify.

Unveiling the resilient spirit of Erumanen ne Menuvu

Jessa Mae Elechicon

In the middle of Mindanao, among its rough terrain, is the Erumanen ne Menuvu people’s ancestral home. They are an indigenous tribe with a history as rich and diverse as the land they live on. Settled in mountainous areas of Bentangan, Carmen, Cotabato, this group has created a way of life that is deeply connected to nature which they value their language, traditions, and rituals.

In their long history, the Erumanen ne Menuvupeoplehavehadtodealwithmany problems, but they have always been able to overcome them and keep their unique cultural tradition alive. From colonial rule to armed battles and being left out of the economy, they have fought hard to pro- tect their ancestral lands and ways of life.

Even though people have moved into their land, the Erumanen ne Menuvu people have made a lot of progress in claiming their land rights, getting formal recognition, and getting their treasured heritage protected. Their journey shows how determined they were to get back to their ancestral lands and protect their traditional heritage.

performances; they show how deeply the Eru manen ne Menuvu people are connected to their roots.

In addition, the Erumanen ne Menuvu people have created a system of education that combines traditional knowledge with modern knowledge. They did this because they realized that they needed to give their young people more power and make sure that their cul- tural roots would not be lost in the face of modern problems. By giving education to the people in their communities, they pass on the knowledge of their ancestors and give the younger generation the skills they need to live in the modern world.

At the heart of their rich culture are the traditional clothes, captivating dances, and mesmerizing musical performances that show the essence of their history. Every stitch in their clothes tells a story, every move in their dances shows their link to the land, and each melody in their music resonates with the spiritual world.

The inhabitants of Erumanen ne Menuvu are a testament to perseverance, the value of tradition, and a commitment to doing what is right. They do more than just preserve their own heritage; they also serve as an outstanding representation of the wide cultural variety that serves to strengthen our global society as a whole. Their perseverance is an example to us all, showing how important it is to cherish and share in our common history.

At the heart of their rich culture are the traditional clothes, captivating dances, and mesmerizing musical performanc- es that show the essence of their history. Every stitch in their clothes tells a story, every move in their dances shows their link to the land, and each melody in their music reso- nates with the spiritual world. These artistic forms are more than just

Moreover, the Erumanen ne Menuvu tribe acts as cultur- al ambassadors, urging others to learn from and take inspiration from their people’s rich traditions, spiritual beliefs, and harmonious connection with the land. Their persever- ance serves as a call to action to recognize and value the differences that enrich our common humanity and work to- ward a future in which all cultural traditions can flourish.

Zenaida M. Lumambas

Ninja. Terrorist. Ghoul. Overly conservative. Old-fashioned. These are just few of the terms they often call a person like me who wears a niqab.

These are just few of many words I’ve received from insensitive people. Hearing these words, I often ask myself, is it because of their lack of knowledge about the niqab? Or is it because they don’t know how to respect other people who may be different from them?

Sometimes, I badly want to say to their face that, “niqab is a piece of cloth, a face veil, worn by a Muslim woman to dress modestly”. Wearing the Niqab is not compulsory, but a personal choice done by those who truly appreciate the benefits of wearing it. Many people don’t understand the real essence and nature of niqab, as well as the reason why some Muslim women are wearing it, even though it is not new to their sights.

say those to me.

These only show that they don’t respect me as a Muslim, as a niqabi, and as a person who can also be hurt like them.

Despite the fact that wearing the niqab is a religious practice and a personal choice, many people still view it as a symbol of oppression or a barrier to effective communication. As a niqabi student, I’ve encountered some people who are afraid of seeing someone wearing the niqab, as well as some people who believe that face veil hinders effective teaching, or that we are trying to isolate ourselves from the society.

“You should have removed your face veil”, “You look like a ninja; I bet you can’t see well” are just two of many comments that I have heard from the people around me.

Due to this lack of understanding and knowledge, niqabis have been experiencing discrimination and prejudice, and have been receiving harsh words, mockeries, and insults.

As a niqabi, I often find myself receiving insults, mockery, discrimination, and intolerance. Many times, I have encountered harsh people who would ask me to remove my face veil. “You should have removed your face veil”, “You look like a ninja; I bet you can’t see well” are just two of many comments that I have heard from the people around me. These comments didn’t really hurt me, but it is the fact that it’s very easy for them to

These negative attitudes towards niqabis make it difficult for me. Sometimes I feel excluded or marginalized. Sometimes I even feel pressured to remove my face veil, despite the fact that I have no intention to do so just to fit in or avoid conflict. Oftentimes, I really wish I could educate those people I’ve had harsh encounters with, so they may understand, and their attitude and perception may change positively.

I am simply practicing my religion in this modern world. Am I not? Don’t I deserve to be understood, respected, and treated fairly by people whom I haven’t even caused any wrong?

I am wearing the niqab, peacefully, without causing inconvenience to others; do I deserve to be told to remove my face veil? Do I deserve to be mocked, insulted, and prejudiced?

‘Youshouldhaveremovedyourfaceveil’:

The harsh encounters of a niqabi

‘Tabula rasa’ and 3:00 a.m. thoughts

JC Thaddeus Provida

John Locke’s philosophy about the human mind, being an empty slate or clean slate is perhaps one of the many theories that goes overlooked with basic comprehension: the human mind is an empty canvas, collecting sketches and colors as one progresses through life.

Everyone starts with an empty slate, every single time.

May 04, 2023. 3:00 a.m., the exact moment I realized that for everything I have done, or been doing, or for when I clean up something, revise a section of an academic paper, or simply thinking of an entirely alien, new concept, I find myself starting with nothing — I void myself of past experiences, knowledge, or bias and

build from there. I start collecting what I like to call snippets of raw, unfiltered information and stack them in hopes of achieving harmony and coherence.

I realized that the Tabula Rasa does not only manifest once in life— singled by birth; interestingly, however, I have discovered that you can always flip, extend on, stitch to, or even replace the canvas entirely to build and scaffold anew.

It is like you are breathing an entirely different life to a new concept, a new idea: you become your own creator. By then, you will not necessarily rely on a parental unit, or a guardian figure, or an environment that will serve you in the most appropriate forms. No. You start to

act out of fear; of survival and necessity. Similarly, when writing this piece, I realized this notion as well. I dropped everything I was doing then and there, and started to solely conceptualize on this one thought. And as you, readers, may have realized the moral of this piece by now: you can always start again, EVEN having to NOT rely on the past— however bad or good that past may have been for you.

So pick yourself up; start now, build slowly, and stand fast to what you genuinely believe is true. Try everything and do everything in the name of love and life. Move and breathe as you go.

Addressing the issue: Ventilation problems in schools

As schools try to create a good place to learn, one thing that is often ignored but is very important is the quality of the air inside. Proper ventilation is a key part of making sure that students and workers are healthy and safe. Unfortunately, schools all over the world are having trouble with ventilation, which puts the safety and education of those inside their walls at risk.

When schools don’t have enough air, there are a lot of health risks. When there isn’t enough fresh air coming in and out, dust, allergens, mold spores, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can build up in the air. When these pollutants are in the air for a long time, they can cause

or worsen breathing problems, allergies, asthma, and other related health issues. Additionally, bad ventilation makes it more likely that infectious diseases like the flu or COVID-19 will spread because it makes it harder for airborne pathogens to be diluted and removed.

In addition to being bad for your health, poor airflow makes it hard to learn. Research has shown that poor indoor air quality affects cognitive function, making it harder for kids to focus, remember things, and do well in school. Inadequate ventilation can also cause discomfort, tiredness, and drowsiness, which makes it harder to learn new things. For teachers, the effects on their own health can hurt

the quality and efficiency of their lessons. Schools should put fixing air problems at the top of their to-do lists everywhere. Students’ health and academic success rely on having enough ventilation, and we must put a high priority on making learning spaces that are safe, healthy, and productive.

Policymakers, education officials, and the whole school community need to work together to find complete solutions, invest in necessary upgrades, and make sure that no child’s education is hurt by the lack of proper ventilation. Let’s take action now to give our kids a brighter and healthier future.

Angelica Tabaranza

Overcoming financial barriers for extracurricular activities: The debate over student fees

Philip John Tabada

Student life is not complete without extracurricular activities. They give students the chance to pursue their passions, pick up new skills, and hone their talents away from the classroom. Budget restrictions, however, make it difficult for many schools to support these initiatives. To fund extracurricular activities, one idea is to charge students fees.

A contentious issue in the educational system has been the collection of fees to finance extracurricular activities. Some claim that it is unfair to make students pay for extracurricular activities when the school ought to be paying for them. As a result of the fact that

schools only have a limited amount of funding, extracurricular activities must be supported by the collection of fees. It is crucial to remember that students should not be barred from extracurricular activities because they cannot afford the costs.

The claim that extracurricular activities have a major positive impact on students is one aspect of the case for requiring students to pay for these activities. Students may benefit from improved experiences as a result of the fees’ support of the activities’ expenses.

However, for some families, especially

those who have been struggling financially, the requirement of paying fees might be a burden. These priceless opportunities can be missed by some pupils since the fees are unaffordable for them. A lack of accountability and transparency may result from institutions misusing the funding.

In my opinion, it is important to carefully assess the needs and resources of the school community before deciding whether to charge students for extracurricular activities. If charges are required, schools should work to make sure they are reasonable and affordable to all students.

Technology and digital divide: Issues related to internet connection

Mariel Rollorata

The students enrolled in the University of Southern Mindanao constantly complains regarding on the internet connection whether in or off-campus. This problem frustrates them as it frustrates me. The backlogs that need to be looked for online cannot be finished in a small amount of time. In the same vein, the signal is evenly interrupted when you enter colleges such as in CSM, CED, CBDEM, and elsewhere.

Sky, a first-year student in the College of Education expressed her opinion about the interrupted internet connection. She said that it was all fine to her so, she can fully focus her mind to the class discussions and not be distracted with

her cellular phone. It helps here control the use of the social media especially during her class. A contrasting opinion from Yvonah, a second-year student in the College of Human Ecology and Food Sciences described her opinion to the unreliable connection with one word, “irritating”.

She summarizes her mixed emotions into one because it always ends up to be like that, irritating. The same opinion coming from Famela, a graduating student expresses her opinion regarding the matter. She said that it was and is hard to have no reliable internet connection because it affects her performance as a student. It affects her during class

activities, research purposes, and class updates or meetings. Without a reliable connection, she won’t be able to receive a quick update now that all the discussions and plans are done in an online group chat.

The unreliable internet connection carries two sides of the coin. Only the student and the faculty can look for alternatives such as having one place where students can gather for the internet connection. A building that interrupts the connection is beneficial for the students to practice self-reliance, to study and focus their mind into learning.

Lost in translation: Unveiling the misinterpretation of ‘Boys’ Love’ in PH media

In the recent years, the genre of Boys’ Love (BL) stories, movies, and/or series has gained immense popularity worldwide, captivating audiences with its narratives centered around same-sex relationships.

However, amidst the surge in its popularity, there has been a concerning trend of misconception and steortyping within BL media.

The goals of this editorial aims to shed light on the wrong portrayal of Boy’s Love and its potential negative consequences for both LGBT+ individuals and society at large.

Francis Allen Villanueva

and sexuality.

Fetishization and Objectification

Fetishization and Objectification should also be adressed since it can destroy and can lead to misterpretation of the individuals and community as a whole. There are characters, often are reduced to sexual object rather than fully developed individuals with their own thoughts and emotion. Characters are important, thus the audience must treat them with respect and dignity, moving beyond sexual fantasies to present well-rounded, and multidimentional personalities.

they’ve misinterpreted, fetishized, and sadly, they even objectify. These should stop; the alienation, marginalization, or invalidation that can arise when their experiences are inaccurately depicted or sensationalized for entertainment purposes only.

There are three (3) points that needs to be addressed:

1) Stereotypical Characterization;

2) Fetishization and Objectification; and 3) Inaccurate Portrayal in Real-life situation.

Stereotypical Characterization

Stereotypical Characterization means the portrayal of dominant seme (top) and submissive uke (bottom) in an series. This mirrors the stereotypical character tropes that could affect the community as a whole. With these characterization, this would allow nuanced character tropes and unauthentic potrayals of individuals in samesex relationship. Moreover, these stereotypes could reinforce harmful power dynamics and perpetuate stereotypes about gender roles

Hence, Stereotypical Characterazation and Fetishizaton and Objectification can lead to Inaacuracy Portrayal of Real-life experiences.

Inaacuracy Portrayal in Real-Life Situation

This factor can actually create unrealistic expectations or misconception about same-sex relationships in real-life. These are subject for potential harm caused by idealized and overly dramatic narratives that do not accurately reflect the challenges, complexities, and joys of genuine LGBTQ+ relationships.

These factors could affect the overall population of the LGBTQ+ Community as they portrayed and still portraying the community wrongly,

They should come up with more inclusive stories or scripts where there’s no need to stereotype the characters, fetishized, and even objectify. Furthermore, there’s a need to advocate for the inclusion of LGBTQ+ Community creators, writers, and artists in the production of BL in media where they highlights, gives importance, and provide more accurate, nuanced portrayals of same-sex relationships, capturimg diversity and complexity of LGBTQ+ experinces while fostering a greater sense of belonging and acceptance among viewers.

To sum it all up, it is essential to critically examine the inaccurate portrayal of Boys’ Love within the Philippine media. By promoting more authentic and diverse representations, challenging stereotypes, and fostering healthy discussion around consent and boundaries, we can create a more inclusive and respectful media landscape.

It is time to recognize the responsibility of creators and viewers alike in shaping a better understanding of LGBTQ+ relationships and promoting genuine empathy and acceptance.

10

Spot.ph ranked the best BL films in the spirit of #LoveWins. We round up some of the best local BL series we’ve come across since 2020. Whether you’re an old fan or are looking to

check out what the

Must-Watch Pinoy Boys’ Love Series to Warm Your Cold Heart

buzz is all about, this list will help you out.

1. Better Days (2020)

2. Wheel of Love: Weekend to Remember (2021)

3. Boys’ Lockdown (2020)

4. B X J Forever (2021)

5. My Extraordinary (2020)

6. Love Beneath the Stars (2021)

7. Stuck on You (2021)

8. Quaranthings (2020)

9. Happenstance (2020)

10. Oh, Mando! (2020)

3 highly complicated Vince Gilligan tv series that are worth watching

For fans of gripping storytelling, complex characters, and morally ambiguous narratives, the intertwined universe of “Breaking Bad,” “Better Call Saul,” and “El Camino” has become a cornerstone of modern television.

Created by Vince Gilligan, these critically acclaimed series have captivated audiences worldwide, delving deep into the darkest corners of the human psyche while offering a glimpse into the redeeming power of unlikely heroes.

Who is Vince Gilligan? He is a writer and producer who rose to prominence in the television world after penning some of the most memorable episodes of the cult science fiction series “The X-Files” (Fox, 1993-2002; 2016- ).

Scripts such as “Small Potatoes,” which was later voted one of TV Guide’s “100 Best Episodes of All Time,” quickly elevated him to executive producer and creative consultant for the series, as well as for its spin-off “The Lone Gunman” (Fox, 2001-02).

After “The X-Files” closed up shop, Gilligan found success on his own as the creator of “Breaking Bad” (AMC, 2008-2013), a gritty drama about a terminally ill science teacher who uses his knowledge of chemistry to set up a meth lab in order to support his family. The show netted overwhelmingly positive response from audiences, as well as a 2008 Emmy for Gilligan’s direction of the pilot episode.

His work on the series, as well as the script for Will Smith’s superhero comedy “Hancock” (2008), indicated that the scriptwriter-turned-showrunner had finally arrived, independent of the considerable shadow cast by the phenomenon that was “The X-Files.”

Out of all Gilligan’s works, three stood out as far as complicated plots and complex characters are concerned.

“Breaking Bad” serves as the catalyst for this enthralling universe, introducing Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher turned drug kingpin. Experience a masterfully crafted story of desperation and transformation as you follow Walter’s descent into the criminal underworld, revealing the fragility of human morality. “Breaking Bad” features masterful writing, impeccable performances, and heartpounding suspense, making it a cultural phenomenon that has left an indelible mark on television history.

“Better Call Saul” is a captivating prequel and spin-off series that centers around the morally dubious lawyer, Jimmy McGill, who later adopts the moniker Saul Goodman (portrayed by Bob Odenkirk). The show features an in-depth exploration of the complex backstory of Saul, revealing the intricate web of lies, deceit, and ethical compromises that led to his emergence as a key player in Walter White’s world. Meticulous storytelling and character development carve a unique path in the expanded universe of “Better Call Saul”

featuring a compelling exploration of the blurred lines between right and wrong, ambition and morality, with an unusual blend of dark humor, touching drama, and unparalleled attention to detail.

“El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie” presents a riveting epilogue that provides closure for one of television’s most beloved anti-heroes, Jesse Pinkman (portrayed by Aaron Paul). Experience Jesse’s intense journey as he faces the aftermath of his decisions and fights to escape his troubled past in this gripping film that continues the story of “Breaking Bad.”

“El Camino” features atmospheric cinematography, tense action sequences, and touching character moments that offer a bittersweet farewell to a beloved character while showcasing the enduring impact of the “Breaking Bad” universe.

These interconnected series and film have been praised for their ability to offer an interesting and thought-provoking viewing experience. They have pushed the boundaries of storytelling and challenged traditional notions of morality, leaving audiences captivated and engaged.

The “Breaking Bad” universe has left a lasting imprint on the world of television with its captivating stories, intricate character development, and exploration of human vulnerability. Its groundbreaking and unforgettable contribution established its place in television history.

Vanzandth Kerr Ochavillo

Dave John Cruto

Whispers of Sorrow

Standing in wilderness Staring at the sky of sadness. A night clothed in pain. Tears keep pouring like a rain. Drowning in his own tears. Chained by his own fears. The wind is mourning. Moonlight is hiding. Stars in the sky at night. Devoured and stole its light. Swallowed by darkness. Embraced by emptiness. His pain he can’t untie. And his brokenness inside. His heart is on his knees. Death is offering its kiss. The guy in his deep sigh, His last tear is saying goodbye.

A Man of Silence

I’m just a man. A man who has a foe. A foe whose name is ‘crowd’. A crowd that bears voice. A voice keeps on whispering. Whispering the word ‘enough’. Enough of trying. Trying to fit in and belong. Belong to his world. A world full of happiness.

I’m just a man. A man who has a friend. A friend called ‘silence’. A silence that tells the truth. Truth keeps on shouting. Shouting I’m good enough. Good enough of being me. Me being with him. With him in his world. World full of acceptance.

I know I’m just a man. A man who is confident. Confident and strong. Strong as dancing wind. A wind that howls. Howls so deafening. Deafening in quietness. In quietness, I know. I know I’m visible. Visible and loved.

Vanzandth Kerr Ochavillo

Tears in the Grain

Mahogany grain, Deep sadness seeps through the wood, Heart heavy, tears fall.

Unseen Digital Sorrows

Lonely words in lines, Aching heart spills on the screen, Online tears unseen.

The Ravages of Envy

Envy, a poison, Devours the heart and the soul, Leaves naught but sorrow.