September 2021 - January 2022 Newsletter

The Official Student Publication of Don Honorio Ventura State University

INDUSTRIALIST

Volume LXXXI Issue No. 1 September 2021 January 2022

I N D E P E N D E N T. I M PA RT I A L . I N G O O D FA I T H .

EDITORIAL | 12

LIBERATION

BY LIES

NEWS | 4 DHVSU obtains milestone of inoculating 3000 Honorians

FEATS | 22 Only Idiots Repeat Eternal Hell

DEVCOMM | 24 Outdated Tactics Do Not Work...

theindustrialistdhvsu@gmail.com

TheIndustrialistDHVSU

theindusdhvsu

2

BALITA

News Editor: Patrick Bryan H. Porras patrickbryanporras@gmail.com

'UNO-RABLE' 2 estudyante mula CEA, CSSP nagtamo ng 'flat uno' ni John Alexis Dela Cruz

BUMUHOS ANG pagkilala’t papuri sa dalawang 4th year student mula sa College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA) at College of Social Sciences and Philosophy (CSSP), matapos makasungkit ng “flat uno” na grado sa nagdaang ikalawang semestro, sa taongpanuruan 2020-2021.

Kinilala ang dalawa na sina Cedrix Joshua Eligio, isang Industrial Engineering student, at si Therese Martine S. Saulo na isa namang Social Work student.

Sa isang panayam sa 21-anyos na si Saulo, tagaDolores, City of San Fernando, laking tuwa at pasasalamat umano ang kanyang naramdaman dahil siya ay nakapagtala ng flat uno na marka ngunit hindi raw niya inasam na makakuha ng ganoon kataas na grado sa kadahilanang halos major subjects ang kanilang pinag-aaralan, at ang ninais lamang niya ay makapasa at "okay na".

“Maraming challenges akong na encounter sa online class. 'Yung

SANA ALL. Cedrix Joshua Eligio (left), an Industrial Engineering student and Therese Martine S. Saulo (right), a Social Work student, both acquired flat one grade for the second semester of the Academic Year 2020-2021. pinaka common ay 'yung sabay yung gawain sa bahay sa online class. 'Yung stress din sa mga subjects 'di na maiiwasan 'yun lalo na major subjects and halos sunod-sunod mga requirements and events na kailangan 'yung assistance. Pero determination and support sa family and sa friends.

'Yung encouragement nila ang naging drive ko para matapos 'yung sem,” salaysay ni Saulo ng

kanyang mga pinagdaanan bago makamit ang nabanggit na grado.

Ayon naman sa pahayag ni Eligio, 21 taong gulang, taga-Guagua, Pampanga, ang pagpapananatiling balanse ng oras sa pag-aaral at pagliliwaliw ang kanyang naging paraan upang maipanatili ang pag-arangkada ng kanyang buhay-estudyante.

“I don’t force myself to study lalo na kung tinatamad ako, hindi

kasi ako 'yung pala-aral talaga na student, gusto ko enjoy lang. Find the perfect balance ganon. Gusto ko I would be able to do other things pa rin outside school. ‘Pagtrip ko mag-aral, sige aral. ‘Pag trip ko mag-ML lang buong araw, sige ML," ani Eligio.

"My point is dapat di natin ni-rerestrict masyado sarili natin, enjoy habang students pa tayo, kasi once na nasa | to page 4

Serbisyo, patakaran ng unibersidad tinalakay sa ikalawang genderized student orientation ni Rodney Liwanag

UPANG IPABATID sa mga bagong mag-aaral ng unibersidad ang mga serbisyo at patakaran, naglunsad ang Office of Student Affairs at University Student Council ng ikalawang Genderized Student Orientation na ginanap noong ika-11 ng Oktubre, 2021, sa pamamagitan ng isang webinar, na ginanap sa Zoom conference at itinampok sa USC Facebook page.

Sa temang, "Keeping the Honorian Blood Alive," binigyang-tuon ng webinar ang mga serbisyo, patakaran, regulasyon, at ilan sa mga tanggapang maaaring lapitan ng mga estudyante para sa kanilang mga mungkahi, katanungan, at problema.

Kaugnay rito, ipinarating ni OSA Director Dr. Gloria B. Gigante ang kanyang mainit na pagsalubong sa mga bagong

mag-aaral ng unibersidad mula sa pagpapakilala ng mga kasapi ng OSA, kasunod ang pagbabahagi ng mga serbisyong handog ng opisina.

"We cannot accomplish all that we need to do without working together– kasama naming kayo sa pag-accomplish sa ibatibang services ng OSA," dagdag pa nito.

Ipinaabot din ni SAS Vice President Dr. Dolores T.

Quiambao ang kanyang mensahe sa mga bagong saltang mag-aaral ng unibersidad.

"Honorian values through transformative quality education which our university offers.

Welcome to one of the leading universities in the country," pahayag ni Quiambao. Dinaluhan ng mga estudyante mula freshmen, transferees, returnees, at mga bagong enrolee ng graduate school ang orientation.

NEWS 3

VOL. LXXXI No. 1 SEPTEMBER 2021 - JANUARY 2022

Campus pubs, stude orgs call for end of VAW

by John Derrick Cordova

INITIATED BY The Industrialist, the official student publication of Don Honorio Ventura State University, campus publications and student organizations in the university collaborated to call for the annihilation of violence against women (VAW).

The unity statement was released in line with the opening of the annual undertaking of the 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women last November 25.

In the statement, the publication, together with the signed student publications and organizations, show support in the endeavors of the 18-day Campaign to End Violence against Women to annihilate all forms of violence against women in every space.

"We believe that it is high time to realize that VAW not only deals physical damage but also hampers them from reaching their full potential along with also immortalizing gender inequality," the statement reads.

"Let us begin to transition society into a safe space for everybody, including women."

A total of 47 campus publications and student organizations in the university joined the unity statement.

In this year’s theme, safe spaces are highlighted in parallel to its advocacy to promote the Republic Act 11313 or Safe Spaces Act that seeks to end gender–based sexual harassment in streets, public spaces, online, workplaces, and educational and training institutions.

SC declares parts of anti-terror law unconstitutional

by John Derrick Cordova

THE SUPREME COURT en banc voted to declare some parts of the controversially-enacted Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) of 2020 as unconstitutional on December 9, 2021.

The ruling was conducted last December 7, granting the petitions against the said law.

Particularly voided by a vote of 12-3 was the act's Section 4 phrase “which are not intended to cause death or serious physical harm to a person, to endanger a person’s life, or to create a serious risk to public safety” that was declared unconstitutional for "being overboard and violative of freedom of expression".

The "second method" of designation in Section 25 paragraph 2 of the law which

gives power to the Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC) to designate a person or a group as terrorists based on a request by another country was also declared unconstitutional by a vote of 9-6.

All other petitions on the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 provisions are declared not unconstitutional which includes, among others, the third mode which gives ATC the power to designate

Photo from Rappler

individuals, groups of persons, organization, or association upon finding a probable cause.

This is considered by many activists as dangerous as no trials are involved in the identification.

ATA was controversially expedited in the Congress at the height of the pandemic last July 2020.

25 CSSP studs now registered social worker DHVSU secures 37.75% passing rate

by Janine Torno

DHVSU COLLEGE of Social Sciences and Philosophy produced 25 new board passers in the recently held Social Work Licensure Examination last August 2021.

The results, which were released on September, revealed the performance of DHVSU having an average of 57.69% Honorian first takers whilst listing 37.88% overall performance with a passing rate of 37.75%.

The achievement of the Honorian passers acclaimed recognition for their lot and as well as for the university as a whole. The college has recognized the current performance of its alumnus and expressed its pride.

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NEWS

News Editor: Patrick Bryan H. Porras patrickbryanporras@gmail.com

DHVSU obtains milestone of inoculating 3,000 Honorians

by Patrick Bryan Porras

As part of its aim to provide full protection to its students, teaching staff, and other university personnel, Don Honorio Ventura State University (DHVSU) reached the milestone of fully vaccinating nearly 3,000 Honorians against COVID-19, based on data from the university.

DHVSU accepted walk-in vaccinations in three batches, which were then held at the university gymnasium from November 5, 2021, to February 11, 2022.

First batch, first blood With over 600 Honorians receiving vaccine jabs, the first roll-out of inoculation was successfully carried through with the collaborative effort of DHVSU President Enrique G. Baking, VP Quiambao, University Student Council (USC), Provincial Health Office of Pampanga, and other university personnel.

In light of this, an online survey was conducted, which served as the basis to know who amongst the Honorians was willing to get vaccinated.

However, only 18-year-old and older students were given the chance to receive their dose of defense against the said respiratory disease.

Second wave of preventive dose While the prescribed age limit during the first launch of the said program was over 18, in the second roll out, however, the university already allowed students whose age ranged from 12 and above to be vaccinated.

Henceforth, students from Laboratory High School (LHS) and Senior High School (SHS) were merged into college students, from which it was recorded that nearly a thousand Honorians received vaccine jabs during the second wave of the inoculation measure, resulting in an increased vaccination rate at the university.

Third cluster and a booster Meanwhile, the last batch of vaccine roll out granted by the provincial Local Government Unit (LGU) was considered a "wish granted" at the end of the university, as it didn't only give unvaxxed, regular students the chance to get a vaccine jab, but it also paved the way for some postgraduate students enrolled in the graduate school to be inoculated with a booster shot.

On the records provided

by Quiambao, there were more than 600 Honorians, including those postgrads, who grabbed the opportunity to acquire the COVID-19 vaccine in the third roll out.

In a talk with Rigette Ryan S. Ramos, current principal of Bacolor High School, the initiative of the university in conducting a walk-in vaccination program is significant and systematic.

"This kind of programs is very helpful sa mga katulad namin, na kailangan na talaga ng booster, tsaka parang you will be given an opportunity para mavaccine, and napaka-systematic ng initiative na ito," Ramos built on.

The said measure is part of its preparation for the possible commencing limited face-to-face classes which will depend on the province's COVID situation.

MASS VACCINATION. Honorians receive their vaccines shots at the university gymnasium on November 5 to 11, 2022. Photo

by Cyrylle Daphne Z. Ocampo

2 estudyante mula CEA, CSSP nagtamo... from page 2 | professional field na tayo, ‘di na natin magagawa mga ‘to. Naniniwala din kasi ako na too much of something is not good,” dagdag pa ng estudyante.

Binigyang-diin ng dalawa ang mga salik na nakatutulong sa kanilang pag-aaral tulad ng pagiging masigasig, determinado, at pagkakaroon ng matibay na support system.

Mensahe pa ni Saulo para sa mga nais ding makakuha ng mataas na marka, “Keep your eyes

on your goal, and do your best to achieve that goal.”

“Don’t pressure yourself too much, ang grades numbers lang 'yan na will not matter after we graduate. Cliché man pero, grades don't define you,” paalala ni Eligio.

Sa grado sa kolehiyo, ang flat 1.0 o uno ang pinakamataas na gradong pwedeng makuha habang ang 3.0 ang passing mark, 4.0 naman ang ‘conditional’ at bagsak naman kapag 5.0.

NEWS 5

VOL. LXXXI No. 1 SEPTEMBER 2021 - JANUARY 2022

“WE HAVE TO PROTECT YOU TO THE FULLEST”

Baking sets out DHVSU’s measures for eyed limited in-person classes

by Patrick Bryan Porras

DHVSU President Enrique G. Baking on December 14, 2021, laid out the university's measures for the upcoming face-to-face classes in 2022, emphasizing that they are doing everything to protect the Honorians against COVID-19.

"As much as possible, we have to protect you [students] to the fullest. 'Yan ang commitment namin, to give you the full protection," Baking made mention in an interview.

Additional Vaccine Batch One of the main points highlighted by the SUC president is the university's aim to build on another batch of Honorians to be vaccinated.

According to Baking, there will be a set of vaccinations that will be administered before the end of December, considering that there are still students who are not yet vaccinated.

"I understand the continuing activity of the university because this is a part of the commitment

to fully vaccinate our students.

Thus, there will be another set of vaccinations, maybe two or three times".

He added that by the end of December, it is expected that 90 to 95% of more than 42,000 Honorians are already vaccinated.

"With that figure, we would say that our students are already safe and secured, but of course we cannot still discard the possibility of complications," Baking appended, noting that Honorians should not still be complacent, even fully inoculated already.

Persuasion and consultations The president also shed light on the university's plans for the students who choose to not get vaccinated, highlighting the adverse effect of vaccines to be protected against the abovementioned respiratory disease.

"We need to do some consultation, perhaps with the parents, and of course with the students and will explain to them

the adverse effects of vaccination," said Baking.

While can not force the students to get vaccinated, he mentioned that the university will do everything possible to persuade the students to afford vaccination.

No vaccine card, no entry In light of this, Baking expounded that a vaccination card will be one of the requirements for the limited in-person classes.

"Kailangan ang vaccination card, siguro gagawa ng paraan ang university, separating the boys from the girls," he pronounced.

He also elaborated that the university will make a mechanism on how to divide the Honorians, considering that the university cannot still house all its students to be back in their second home.

In addition, he clarified that the mode of learning, if ever the limited face-to-face classes start, will still be multi-modal, in which half of the students will take inperson classes, and the other half will utilize the virtual learning

"As much as possible, we have to protect you [students] to the fullest.

'Yan ang commitment namin, to give you the full protection."

Dr. Enrique G. Baking

environment.

Stern measures for studs outside Pampanga When asked about the university's plans for students who stayed outside the province since the COVID-19 escalated, Baking said that stricter measures will be considered in order to ensure the safety of those students.

"Considering the geographical location where they come from, the more we need to be very strict," he elucidated.

Some of the requirements that have to be contemplated are a student's history of having disease, vaccination status, and travel history.

Concerning this, he raised a challenge to the Honorians that they have to manifest honesty when being assessed soon about the aforementioned considerations.

"This is a rigorous work, and we will be spending a lot of time in doing all of these, sana naman 'yung mga estudyante magsalita sila ng totoo".

Booster shots for boosted protection Still part of the university's vaccination initiative, Baking drew attention to providing Honorians booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccine to guarantee safety and increase the protection rate of students.

"We will try hard para mabooster. For equal protection of the law, dapat ma-booster din kayo. We will try to work that out starting January 2022," Baking assured.

As of this writing, limited face-to-face classes are set to commence in the early part of 2022.

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NEWS

News Editor: Patrick Bryan H. Porras patrickbryanporras@gmail.com

Teachers must sight online stude behavior triggers: Soliman

by John Marco Nucum

"Students' behavior does not occur in isolation – there is a function and purpose so we, instructors, have to identify what triggers them."

These were the words of the resource speaker, Dr. Benny Soliman, during the Office of Student Affairs-hosted a webinar last September 22, designed for the DHVSU teaching personnel on how to respond with the prevalent issues and concerns about student discipline in online classrooms.

The event aimed to acquire basic knowledge on students' behavior, to be familiar with the common inappropriate behaviors of students, and apply effective strategies in managing them particularly in the online setting.

During his opening remarks, Dr. Fernando Pamintuan, Office of Student Services Director,

considered the event as a teachable moment to all educators in ensuring that all learners will be able to apply discipline while they are still under the guidance and custody of DHVSU. "We may have the most effective and best plan on how to execute and make our students master our subject courses, yet if students grow undisciplined – no education and quality has been applied,"Dr. Pamintuan quipped.

Soliman

Understanding students' behavior The presentation was outlined into three divisions from which understanding first the behavior of learners in the online classroom is discussed.

Dr. Soliman tackled the 'ABCs' of behavior: Antecedent which means what triggers the behavior; Behavior which refers to the behavior itself; and the corresponding consequence that was made.

The speaker also noted some basic principles in understanding behavior, students' individual situations that may influence their online behavior, and events that trigger emotional reaction or problem behavior.

Common misbehaving students and intervention to be done In the second outline, Dr.

Soliman enumerated and discussed the common types of misbehaving students that instructors usually encountered, which include the complainer, the messy type, the procrastinator, the plagiarizer, and the interruptor.

The management and possible intervention that instructors should utilize were tackled in the last outline which talked about managing students' misbehavior.

The last outline addressed three levels to be done which include [1] Preventive Level, [2] Coping in the Moment, and [3] Reducing Problem Behavior.

"In managing students' behavior, we really have to exert efforts to prevent such misbehavior,"he quoted.

Dr. Soliman, at the end of the webinar, also cited some of the major dos and don'ts that educators should follow in the implementation of class rules.

Gender mainstreaming, sensitivity highlited in GAD webinar

by Patrick Bryan Porras and Marc Navida

WITH THE webinar entitled, "Gender Sensitivity in Times of COVID-19 Pandemic," Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Director for Office of Programs and Standard Development (OPSD) emphasized on September 3, the necessity to mainstream gender in times of COVID-19 pandemic.

According to Dir. Cherrie Melanie Ancheta-Diego, resource speaker of the webinar, mainstreaming gender will pave the way for the rounding principles of inclusivity for everyone regardless of the age, gender preference, and figure.

"That's what we do as

members of an academic institution, as presidents, vice presidents, GAD focal persons because it is through here that we are able to make use of digital platforms," Diego underscored.

Moreover, the CHED OPSD director also mentioned the basic concepts about gender through an interactive activity that was participated by the Honorians and the university staff present in the webinar.

The resource speaker also brought up the United Nation Women's recent study, revealing that at least 243 million women globally aged 15-49 have been subjected to sexual and physical violence, perpetrated by an intimate partner in the span of 12 months, this pandemic.

"Emerging data shows that, since the outbreak of COVID-19, violence against women and girls (VAWG), and particularly domestic violence has intensified," the gender advocate noted.

With such looming issues, Diego preceded that it is necessary for everyone to uphold the most basic human decency which is respect and apply it to all human forms, regardless of age, ability, religion, educational attainment, race, ethnic group, status in society, marital status, region of origin, color, sexual orientation, and gender identity.

The well-claimed GAD activist also shed light on how relevant mental health is nowadays wherein she asserted, "Prioritizing mental health in this time of

pandemic will relieve you from stressful moments of your life".

On a separate note, the GADvocate applauded the university for successfully meeting the requirements of the Philippine Commission on Women, exceeding the required 5% benefit utilization for GAD General Appropriates.

Additionally, she stated that the university should further engage as a champion and cocreator of learning to higher education that will advance necessary changes in attitudes, behaviour and beliefs about gender sensitivity.

SUC President Enrique G. Baking, who opened the webinar also drew attention to the achievements of | to page 9

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VOL. LXXXI No. 1 SEPTEMBER 2021 - JANUARY 2022

Indus seizes 2nd consecutive triumph in Luzon-wide campus press awards, places 3rd most outstanding

by Lawrence Layug

THE INDUSTRIALIST once again racked up awards in multiple categories and was hailed as 3rd Most Outstanding Campus Publication at the Luzon-wide edition of the 2nd Assumption Outstanding Campus Press Awards (AOCPA), held last January 12.

Among the individual category awardees were: 1st Place Outstanding Editorial Writer – John Derrick J. Cordova 1st Place Outstanding Editorial Cartoonist – Eddie Marie Talens 1st Place Outstanding Photojournalist – Frances R. de Leon 2nd Place Outstanding Opinion Writer – by Patrick Bryan Porras 3rd Place Outstanding Sports Writer – by Daniel Louis Mallari

5th Place Outstanding Investigative Journalist – John Zenrick Valdez John Derrick Cordova, editor-in-chief of the publication, felt honored to be recognized and proud of his fellows for their achievement.

"It's not the usual pressconference-atmosphere kind of competition. Since it is a free topic, may edge talaga ang lahat," he added.

In the 1st AOCPA, only student-journalists and campus publications in Pampanga were awarded. Among the new contenders were UPLB Perspective and DLSU's Ang Pahayagang Plaridel.

The annually held AOCPA is spearheaded by Regina, the official student publication of the University of Assumption, to honor exceptional skills of campus journalists in Luzon.

2 educ alum land on licensure exam top spots

by Daniel Louis Y. Mallari

COLLEGE OF Education - Department of Elementary Education alumni Rom Kiefer G. Soliman and Edmond P. Ocampo Jr. finished on top spots in the recent September 2021 Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET).

Soliman achieved a 91.60% rating to notch 2nd place while Ocampo listed a 90.80% rating to attain 6th place.

In the Elementary Level LET, DHVSU achieved an 83.60% first-timer passing rate and a 77.19% repeater passing rate combining for an 80.38% overall passing rate.

Meanwhile, in the Secondary Level LET, the university posted a 52.38% first-timer passing rate and a 47.44% repeater passing rate for an ovevrall passing rate of 49.17%.

According to the Professional Regulation Commission, 4,883 elementary teachers out of 8,726 examinees (55.96%) and 10,318 secondary teachers out of 17,863 examinees (57.76%) passed.

The College of Education and the university administration has acknowledged the feats of its alumni and has expressed their congratulatory remarks to Soliman and Ocampo for bringing honor to the college and program.

TOP NOTCH. Rom Kiefer G. Soliman (left) and Edmond P. Ocampo Jr. (right) landed on top spots in the September 2021 Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET). Photo: COESC

NEWS Youth-nited wins majority of USC seats in first online university election 8

by John Marco Nucum

THE FIRST-EVER virtual University Student Council (USC) election was held on December 17, marking yet another massive victory for the Youth-nited Partylist, with seven out of ten candidates earning a winning spot in the office seat.

YN elected on majority seats

Banner bets USC president re-elect Jensen Niño Baking, an incumbent from the 2019-2020 executive board, and now-USC Vice President Percival Rongcal Jr. led the newly-elected student council from the party that has

News Editor: Patrick Bryan H. Porras patrickbryanporras@gmail.com

held the highest position in the student body since 2016.

Completing the USC seats are their party fellow, Senator on Records Vielka Roque, Senator on Audit Jessica Mercado, Senator on Business Affairs Nicole Angela Zapata, Senator on Student Affairs Arnie Manalastas, and pioneering Senator on Gender and Development Crystal Jade Pasion.

According to the Student Commission on Elections (SCOMELEC), the official voter turnout was 73.18%, accounting for 13,210 votes cast from the seven university campuses via the DHVSU Learning Management System platform. On December

18, the newly-elected USC officers were formally proclaimed.

"Gagawin po namin ang mga ipinangako naming plataporma at ia-adopt din namin ang mga platforms ng TIKDO Student Alliance as maybe deemed necessary. Wala po tayong partylist-based distinction so lahat po ng makabubuti sa students ay gagawin natin," Baking remarked during the proclamation day.

Wins for the opposition

This year's USC election also highlighted the triumph of the opposition party with TIKDO Student Alliance securing three of the remaining senatorial positions.

With their officer-elects, Senator on Finance-elect Missy Ruela Cortez, Senator on Student Services-elect Vhieya Paula Fernandez, and Senator on Public Information-elect Natasha Mae Pascual, the highest student body is now packed with diverse electoral bodies.

"Ang [mga] ipinagmamalaki ng Tikdo Student Alliance for the DHVSU USC 2022. Maramingmaraming salamat sa bawat isa sa inyo na tumayo, lumaban, at naghangad ng pagbabago kasama ang buong partido ng TIKDO Student Alliance," the alliance's statement imparted on their Facebook page.

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VOL. LXXXI No. 1 SEPTEMBER 2021 - JANUARY 2022

DHVSU's 18-Day EVAW campaign launch centers Safe Spaces Act

HONORIAN SANCTUARY. The University's student leaders, officials, admins and staffs raising their right hand as a sign of advocating for Violence Against Women together with the resource speaker, Prosecutor JT Leonardo C. Santos, LL.M. that was held via Zoom.

by Jevelyn Julao

AS DHVSU commenced its 18Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (EVAW) with the theme, "Honorian Ako: Sa Akin Magmumula ang Respeto," Republic Act No. 11313, otherwise known as Safe Spaces Act was unraveled, highlighting equality, safety, and security for all forms of gender.

Held via Zoom and simulcasted on a Facebook Livestream on November 29, 2021, the opening program brought about the abovementioned law, with Atty. Jose Theodore Leonardo Santos, Asst.

City Prosecutor, Office of the City Prosecutor-CFSP serving as the resource speaker.

Santos legitimized the power of the RA 11313, which penalizes sexual harassment based on gender.

He also clarified that the said law, in line with the fundamental constitutional provisions regarding human dignity and human rights, is expanding the concept of discrimination and "protects persons of diverse sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or expression".

"It thus recognizes genderbased sexual harassment as including, among others, misogynistic, transphobic, homophobic, and sexist slurs," the law added.

The lawyer also expounded on the significance of respect to individual choices, and he also shed light on gender sensitivity, highlighting important terminologies encompassing genders such as sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, transgender, and gender transition.

"It is of equal importance to promote respect to all gender

against discrimination and sexual harassment. A person is born biologically as a man and a woman, but do not forget the gift of God, which is the gift of choice, and that choice must be respected as part of our human rights," he emphasized.

In light of this, the University Student Council also elucidated their aspiration clearly, “our goal is to attain a society that does not belittle the biological capabilities of women and children but rather recognizes their significant contribution to the society,” USC President Jensen Niño Baking affirmed.

As part of the campaign's opening program, a GAD hour talk was conducted in the afternoon that was participated by other different departments to illuminate and encourage each student’s awareness regarding VAW.

Episode 1 of "Kumustahan Session" also kicked off right after the GAD hour talk.

The 18-Day campaign runs from November 25 to December 12, aiming to gear everyone toward adversities especially the vulnerable.

Gender mainstreaming.. from page 6 | the university, particularly the GAD office which he termed "Contemporary Academic Marshals"in implementing programs, webinars, and conveying equality.

The aforementioned webinar was carried through after the First Friday Mass presided by Rev. Fr. Ariel D. Limjoco, which was streamed live on DHVSU Facebook page.

10 NEWS

News Editor: Patrick Bryan H. Porras patrickbryanporras@gmail.com

FIRST OF ITS KIND: GAD webinar caps empowerment on solo parent, differently-abled Honorians

by Patrick Bryan Porras

IN COOPERATION with the Office of Student Services (OSS), DHVSU Gender and Development (GAD) Office organized a webinar on September 24, 2021 with solo parent and differently-abled students serving as the point of convergence for the first time.

Prefaced by Dr. Gloria B. Gigante, OSA Director, the webinar was considered as historical in the university as it focused on providing empowerment to the aforementioned sector through character building and resilience in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis.

According to Dr. Dolores Quiambao, VP for Student Affairs and Services (SAS), having a unit for single-parent and PWD is "extraordinarily odd" yet "a wish come through".

20 arkis pass boards; DHVSU garners 73.39% passing rate

She added that it is part of their commitment to engage everybody in all affirmative action programs of the university.

"Very historical itong webinar na ito– this is the first time that we'll be holding a webinar that is solely intended for solo parents MIABE-ABE TAMU, ABE. The university held its first webinar that is solely intended and differentlyfor solo parents and differenty-abled students that was led by Ms. Angienette C. Evangelista, MA RGC, PRm. Screengrab from DHVSU Facebook page. abled students," Quiambao emphasized.

Meanwhile, Ms. Angienette and in working with PWD. person with a disability, you'll C. Evangelista, Resource Speaker "Iyong struggles, iyong know your strength, know your of the webinar expounded difficulties na pinagdaanan ko weaknesses. Always remember on the topic, "SP and PWD along the way gave me enough that it is a matter of perspective, Empowerment and Mental energy to pursue my dreams," how we see the situation, how Health," in which she shared her Evangelista underscored. we look at the situation," she also own experiences as a solo parent "I hope, as a solo parent and appended.

RGADC III intensifies call to end violence against women, children with disabilities

by Catherine Valerio

by Mark Pangilinan

DHVSU College of Engineering and Architecture successfully formed 20 licensed Architects on the licensure examination held last August 27 & 29, 2021.

The students' endeavor generated a 90.91% passing rate for the 1st Takers, which paved the way for the university to obtain an overall passing rate of 73.39%.

According to PRC, 560 out of 849 takers passed the board exam, which accounts to a 65.96% national passing rate.

THE REGIONAL Gender and Development Committee (RGADC) called for ending violence against women and children living with disabilities amid the 18-day Campaign to End Violence against Women Campaign.

This was presented by the University GAD Focal Person and RGADC officer, Dr. Dolores T. Quiambao, during the 2021 RGADC III Advocacy Program to End Violence Against Women (VAW), last November 26, 2021.

In their presented findings, there is a higher rate of violence against women with disabilities

recorded compared to violence against men with disabilities.

Furthermore, maltreatment cases against women with disabilities far exceed that of women without disabilities.

In the country, in a span of almost 11 months of 2021, a total of 386 persons with disabilities abuses have been reported.

The nature of cases includes physical abuse, economic abuse, psychological abuse, acts of lasciviousness, unjust vexation, voyeurism, rape, murder.

The committee has also highlighted that women and children with disabilities are as susceptible to all forms of violence as the rest.

This dilemma presents an intersection with gender and disability that deepens forms of social prejudice, discrimination, and exclusion. With this, according to RGADC, persons with disabilities are treated as ‘invisible citizens’.

“It’s now a call to end this stigma, it’s high time to stop just listening and hearing, we should do something,” Quiambao added as she encouraged her fellow and webinar viewers.

RGADC coordinates genderrelated activities in the region with the objective to mainstream Gender and Development in the policies, programs, projects, and activities.

NEWS 11

VOL. LXXXI No. 1 SEPTEMBER 2021 - JANUARY 2022

OSAS-IPU, DPC hold Genderized Indigenous People's Day webinar

by Carlo Samia

WITH the theme Identity: Empowering and Advocating Indigenous People's Culture, the DHVSU Office of Student Affairs and Services – Indigenous Peoples Unit (OSAS-IPU), in partnership with DHVSU Porac Campus (DPC), conducted a webinar and cultural show on Genderized Indigenous Peoples Day, November 5.

Held via a Zoom meeting and simulcasted on Facebook live, the webinar aimed to share and celebrate the culture of the Aeta community through raising awareness on the importance of preserving indigenous cultures through education and empowering indigenous youth themselves as researchers.

The two-part webinar was spearheaded by resource speaker Kevin Constantine Fonseca, Community Development Officer III of the National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP) Region III. The first part tackled the Community Development Framework, which shed light on the relation of gender in the extensive need for development programs concerning the IPs and the role of gender in the current plight of the IPs. "Bakit po ito mahalaga sa usapin ng gender, sapagkat kapag nawawala po ang malalaking bahagi ng mga ancestral domains o mga lupaing ninuno ng mga katutubo, nawawalan din po ng puwang ang mga kababaiha," he added, expanding the understanding of the audience on the genderized effects of the problems of the IP communities.

Meanwhile, the second part of the webinar discussed the vital

DAYANG HONORIAN. A webinar by the Office of Student Affairs and University Student Council to welcome the new students of the University with the theme of "Keeping the Honorian Blood Alive" via Zoom and Facebook Live. Screengrab from DHVSU Facebook page. role of IP youth in the field of research not as sources of data but rather as researchers themselves.

According to Fonseca, the NCIP initiated the said program to empower and capacitate IP youth in the field of research, which

is a part of the commission's Genderized IP Framework.

"I believe ito rin po ang role ng DHVSU sa inyo pong Indigenous Peoples Program, e mayroon sanang pool ng mga IP researchers na makakatuwang po

natin sa pagco-conduct po natin ng mga mahahalagang researches po na ito," the community speaker appended.

The activities were attended by the Aeta students from DHVSU Porac Campus.

GFPS calls for ceasing of discriminatory, sexual abuse posting among Honorians

by John Derrick Cordova

THE OFFICE of the GFPS Student Focal Person released a memorandum on September 22, 2021 that calls for Honorians to discontinue sharing and posting discriminatory, sexually abusive, and other related content on social media platforms.

Students are also discouraged to bring up such topics mentioned in group chats primarily if consent is not given by all involved persons.

"We are limited by the data privacy law of what we can share

to the public, despite this, we want the public to be aware that this office never faltered to provide multifaceted ways to safeguard the rights and welfare of one and all,"outgoing GFPS Student Focal Person Paul Andrei Macaspac stated.

Sanctions are also in place upon second offense and/or a filed complaint, which are stipulated in the university student manual in adherence to the Safe Spaces Act. According to the memo, the move is in compliance with the Safe Spaces Act of 2019, The Woman in Development and

Nation Building Act, The Magna Carta of Women, UN CEDAW, CHED Memorandum Order No.1, series of 2015, and Philippine Commission on Women, Memorandum Circular 2011-01 as well as the continued commitment of the university towards diversity and inclusivity.

This motion of the office is now included in its efforts together with policies and implemented student leveled measures for the vulnerable, the "Know the Signs, End the Silence" mechanism, and an addition of a platform for online counseling.

12 EDITORIAL

Liberation by Lies F

ake news intended to fuel the campaign has put up an irony of persecution. It seems liars get away with crimes while the honest are stoned until their mouths are shut.

This is evident over comments in social media enlightening and debunking claims of the Marcos Era being the 'golden years of the Philippines'. Statistics, researches, even eye-witness confessions, and mainstream media reports of the 21-year dictatorship are turned down by YouTube and TikTok videos from unverified sources setting Marcos's presidency as a standard.

From showing the ravishing infrastructure improvements during the Marcos era to showing how the economic standing of the country at the time is comparable to present Japan or Singapore, the barrage of inaccuracies in the Internet increased. While many dismember it, a lot of people are enticed and has pushed them to choose Bongbong as the next president.

This fake news is not only favoring the Marcos reelection but it even rubs salt in the reopened wounds and the thousand

cuts of those still finding justice for their Martial Law losses.

Fanatics now does not only invalidate facts but also cries for justice. And, sadly, it's working.

Bongbong Marcos now gains the upper hand in polls, racking up voters after voters with false information.

This kind of dilemma found on voter education was the subject of Ateneo School of Government's survey unit that studied the fake news susceptibility of over 30,000 youth.

The study found out that Duterte supporters have a "lower capacity" in distinguishing correct from false information. While 63% of the respondents said that they are “somewhat confident” about their abilities to identify false information, they only achieved a 6.9 average in the 10-item quiz.

The proponents then concluded that fake news susceptibility is likely caused by social media trust and mainstream media distrust.

All of this points out that voter education now includes identifying fake and real news. Platforms and promises are paired with political dynasty ambitions and achievements —

EDITORIAL 13

VOL. LXXXI No. 1 SEPTEMBER 2021 - JANUARY 2022

which, in the first place, are not even true.

Owning up the truths of Martial Law is not something Marcoses are known for and perpetuating such revisionisms that benefit them is no surprise at all. Both Imee and Bongbong’s educational attainment have been questionable and their claims have been discredited by their respective schools.

If we cannot allow liars in the Senate, let it be in the highest executive position also. With the unprecedented crisis we have, the next president’s integrity is surely sought after by the people.

We should be sick of another bad and liar leader. The government can intensify impairing fake news through corroborative efforts with social media platforms. Existing voter education programs intended to further inject to society the importance of civic rights and responsibilities must be

heightened if the lack continues.

However, we have the cognition and will to believe in lies. If we continue to believe in these denialisms and revisionisms, we are fastening our bondage that will tie the country again to ineffective governance.

And if one candidate cannot admit a simple truth, how are we supposed to feel his/her promises will materialize? Bear in mind, lies cannot be used to set anything — or anyone — free.

Sounds familiar? We all know what can only set us free.

At present, Bongbong Marcos is now reaping the misinformation-sown harvest of voters. He has promised unifying leadership to bring the country together once again and into an economic skyrocket. But if these promises end up with lies, like what Marcoses are currently perpetuating, a dictator empire’s restoration might be imminent and we might be more than shackled than ever.

With the unprecedented crisis we have, the next president’s integrity is surely sought after by the people. We should be sick of another bad and liar leader.

Prince IT Building, Don Honorio Ventura State University, Villa de Bacolor, Pampanga 2011 theindustrialistdhvsu@gmail.com TheIndustrialistDHVSU

theindusdhvsu

EDITORIAL BOARD AND STAFF A.Y. 2021-2022 JOHN DERRICK J. CORDOVA Editor-in-Chief | RONNEL B. TIONGCO Associate Editor | DANIEL LOUIS Y. MALLARI Managing Editor – External and Sports Editor | BEATRIX B. MALINAO Managing Editor - Internal | PATRICK BRYAN H. PORRAS News Editor | KYLIE MAE B. ABEGONIA Features Editor | JOHN ZENRICK N. VALDEZ Development Communication Editor | STEPHEN ROY T. GALANG Literary and Capampangan Editor | JERWIN F. BANGELES Art Director | CYRYLLE DAPHNE Z. OCAMPO Head Photojournalist | EDWIN JOSHUA L. DUNGCA Multimedia Editor | FRANCES R. DE LEON Chief Layout Artist | JOLO ADAM G. ROQUE Circulations Manager

JULIUS L. CARLOS, JOSE S. ZARAGOZA III, CARLO T. SAMIA, JOHN MARCO B. NUCUM, RODNEY C. LIWANAG, JOSHUA NIKOLAI B. DABU, JONEL M. NEVALES, BRIX DENIEL C. MENDOZA, EDDIE MARIE R. TALENS, IRISH NICOLLETE T. SICAT Senior Staff LOVELY ANGEL ALCANTARA, JOHN ALEXIS DELA CRUZ, JANINE ERIKA TORNO, KENEDICK TOLOSA, MARK ERBERT PANGILINAN, JEVELYN JULAO, MAYNARD BUAN, PATRICIA LAINE TURLA, RYZA CARMELA SALTA, KYLA DIZON, ANGELICA ROMERO, CATHERINE VALERIO, KLARENCE LAYUG, ELLYZA DEL FIN, MARC NAVIDA, NATHALIE MIRANDA, JAREN KYLE CASTRO, DYAN THERESE LIM, RUDOLF IAN CANLAS, PAUL CHESTER GALANG, KYLA JIN GREGORIO, DANNIA BONDOC, CYRIX BITUI, MARK ANTHONY MESINA, JADE DUANA, ARLENE PAGUIO Junior Staff MS. ANTONIA B. FERNANDEZ, DR. CHONA M. NAVARRO Advisers

14 OPINION Ridding a byline’s essence

A

n article is set on a pedestal not only by the power of its persuasion or information. Typically, except for an editorial, all newspaper write-ups are endeared with bylines.

Back when I was starting to write for the publication, I realized how some of my colleagues dreamt of seeing their names on the issues. I see nothing wrong with it. I might be slowly turned into one as well.

That, perhaps, was the time I realized, bylines do not only drive eyes but also pens.

Bylines build individuals who will serve the people unconditionally. The glory it brings to the authors eventually transforms into a passion that sets them to push for change.

Then the byline’s impact planted in my mind, we had to use pseudonyms. With red-tagging and arrests with faked-up charges against journalists and progressive groups booming, fear engulfed the wonder of a byline.

There was a reason to cover up.

Cancel culture, death threats, and

ENDS UNMET John Derrick J. Cordova derik081500@gmail.com

Editor-in-Chief

cyberbullying thrown to people who expressed opinion and news in a manner of exercising their duties were rampant. Our editor required us to employ aliases on articles to protect us.

Making us danger-exempted whilst still expressing our desires was a move from my editor that I never despised and never do I loathe those who use pseudonyms to serve the same purpose – it was the circumstances that made us do it.

I’ve always hated it when we were supposed to be heard but then silenced. The

accountability put up by a byline numerously has credited the facts journalists present as fake, dumb-founded, and bayaran. Seeking refuge, the simple glory a byline provides has been derailed from its path of becoming essential for the society.

When a byline is ridded of its essence, we are losing catalysts. It may be a mere suppressing of a volume yet it’s almost equivalent of silencing it. A subdued voice still

“A subdued voice still needs to be heard — on this case — clearly.” needs to be heard — on this case — clearly.

Bylines may be a petty way to satisfy an esteem. However, the mere smile it puts on young journalists builds them to become vital in the society.

It’s such a shame to see how these people lose their passion due to the fear of putting their names to credit the article they | to page 16

When the Tags are Red, How Do You See Them?

A

ctivism in the Philippines can be traced back to the rich history of many uprisings and revolutions. Notably during the momentous Spanish colonization and, more recently, during the Martial Law era. Led predominately by youth leaders, the masses took the initiative to topple both abusive governments.

At the height of the Marcos dictatorship, activism grew further. Universities became harbors for initiating the anti-dictator movements with students as its driving force.

Years after the Marcos dictatorship, student activism has not left the sociopolitical arena of our country. Regardless of the person sitting in the palace, activism has played a crucial role in safeguarding the country’s state and progress.

Recently, since the Duterte administration rose to power, there have been more reasons why many students have become activists.

Many even join progressive national democratic mass organizations such as Anakbayan and League of Filipino Students.

Seeing how his administration orchestrates extrajudicial killings, red-tagging of progressive organizations and individuals,

TIBAK Carlo T. Samia

carlosamia00@gmail.com

Senior Writer

mediocre efforts to stand against China on our maritime dispute, among others, arouse critical minds to exhibit dissent.

History has shown similar patterns as to why students mobilize themselves. It may

“These lead students to create or join organizations that collectively push for what is deemed better for the greater masses.” be due to a looming threat to our democracy, abuse of power, and human rights violations.

These lead students to create or join

organizations that collectively push for what is deemed better for the greater masses, so much so that it includes joining the struggle and immersing oneself with thriving communities to better understand the plight they live with daily.

One significant reason I see why students become activists is that universities are the perfect places where they can grow as individuals in various facets of life, whether it be academically, socially, or politically, indifferent or opposing spectrums of a particular cause.

It is a ground where they can foster critical thinking and a deeper understanding of the material state of the country in different aspects. Universities enable them to share their ideas to realize things that could help in the nation development, influence others to fight for the same cause, and materialize their ideals all the while being in a nurturing collective.

In a time when our nation is in peril, some are willing to give so much for this country when to do so meant extreme sacrifice. Despite the relentless efforts of the government to bury them and their ideals, many still | to page 16

OPINION 15

VOL. LXXXI No. 1 SEPTEMBER 2021 - JUNE 2022

Defenseless Armor: Never Again

A

s I walked down the street, I saw darkness, change, and isolation.

Captivating smiles were covered by thin clothes. Hopeful faces were concealed by plastic barriers; behind these is a foggy sight, just as our future remains vague and uncertain.

The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic gave nascence to face shields. On August 15, 2020, all passengers were required to wear face shields in any mode of public transportation. Full-coverage face shields were mandated in all public places on December 14, 2020 by the Inter-Agency Task Force for Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID).

For the government, face shields are armors against an invisible hostile — the COVID-19 virus. However, many Filipinos staunchly believed that these are inept. A survey in February 2021 showed that 6 in 10 individuals adhere to the face shield requirement. The removal of face shields to places under Alert Level 3 and lower on November 15, 2021 sent people into ecstasies.

VIGILANT’S BREVISH SHOT Lovely P. Alcantara

lovelyangelmariealcantara@gmail.com

Junior Writer

The World Health Organization (WHO) never required its use as a “well-fitting threelayer mask” is enough. We can be exposed to COVID-19 even with face shields as it is also airborne; it can stay in air particles for several minutes or an hour. An article in “Physics of Fluids” suggests employing a “plainlydesigned, high quality cloth or surgical mask,” instead of face shields or masks with exhale valves.

When face shields were first required, many businesses engaged in capitalism. Foreign

countries like China became the ultimate beneficiaries as the market was controlled in a motive to earn higher profit. Importers gained monopoly power, enabling them to charge higher prices. Philippines invested much on face shield that could not even provide the protection it was designed to give. Plastics are indeed pliable. Whenever I go to supermarkets or ride a public vehicle, I see people transforming their face shields into fans, visors against the sun, or placeholders. We cannot

Sadly, the defenseless armor that’s supposed to protect us appears to be just another capitalist revenue fueled by our suffering. blame these people since it is uncomfortable to wear. It only adds to the heat we feel and makes it harder for us to breathe.

Will this favorable dismissal still | to page 16

It’s more stressful in the Philippines!

“I

t’s more fun in the Philippines!”

Well, that is true solely for the tourist attractions which are limited today concerning the ongoing pandemic that also shows how corrupt the government is as well as the narrow-minded Filipinos, leading to more problems in the Philippines!

With what is happening in the Philippines, I cannot help but feel stressed as a teenager along with my friends and family and I know we are not the only ones experiencing it. So, to start with, our land has a misogynist, brutal, biased, bad-mouthing president with its “fans protecting him at all costs”.

"With what is happening in the Philippines, I cannot help but feel stressed as a teenager along with my friends and family.."

Well, I know that every country has been touched by this pandemic, however, our thirdworld country may have been pinched too with more poverty that it saddens me how corrupt

SOMETHING NOT THAT NEW Ryza Carmela L. Salta

salta.ryzacarmela.l@gmail.com

Junior Writer

people took advantage of what is happening like PhilHealth’s stolen 15 billion pesos.

Imagine, millions of poor Filipinos becoming poorer because of the circumstances yet there are rich people only getting richer; life is not unfair, people are.

However, look how perplexing many Filipinos are for wanting to vote for another corrupt politician as a president. It doesn’t even matter what were the situations when martial law in our country was imposed because, like how the mistakes of the father aren’t the fault of his child/children, it is the same as the difference between the capabilities of the two; in short, Ferdinand Marcos Sr. is different from the Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.

Besides, why would you choose a man involved with the pork-barrel scam, unapologetic to those victims in martial law, human rights abuse, tax evasion case, faked diploma, and human rights abuse rather than those who have clean tax declaration and excellent credentials?

Thus, Marcos apologists are a product of miseducation that shows many Filipinos are, I am not saying this to discriminate them but to be aware how it can affect everyone’s life by that; remember, today, with much free educational information, ignorance is a choice.

You can’t say you want a better country if you support “those” kind of people. In addition to it, integrity is questionable on someone who failed to be active during the pandemic.

Nonetheless, unprivileged isn’t a choice because mostly nowadays, no matter how hardworking people are, if there are dishonesties on how our system is running especially in hard times, there will always be no choice for those in poverty.

Speaking of poverty, completing our education background is still important and guarantees more potential to | to page 16

16 OPINION The Tell-Tale

S

tanding in 2022, which is the start of an election year. And again, it is also a year where supporters of every politician surface — a year where an individual's character is judged according to their political views.

Three people or situations that we can relate to during the election year. An apolitical person is regarded as reckless because they are uninterested in politics. Second, becoming vocal of the students, are being stereotyped by the elders because of their involvement in politics, though students are stating facts for everyone to know. And lastly, those people that take their political views during some life’s critical part, specifically in education.

Education is a mere fact that we, students, are supposed to have education as the foundation for our path in the future. But how will it turn into a foundation if, upon building it, someone comes to force us to believe a stand — the wrong one. And the number one rule of building a foundation is you can’t build a weak one.

To think, it is very puzzling how the heroism of Rizal during his time fueled by the Spanish cronies is taught in a history class while dropping persuasions to students to support an incompetent politician. Considering

It's more stressful... from page 15 | succeed than not completing it, however, teenage pregnancy, that halts a lot of student's educations, looms to give a heavier burden to families.

Furthermore, COVID cases are rapidly growing again and that should not be a question because many individuals carelessly enjoy their life without thinking of the consequences with the virus still lingering despite the declining cases at that time, like the “Poblacion girl” who prioritizes her enjoyment over the well-being

Ridding a byline's... from page 14 | poured their talents into.

Sadly, leading up to ridding bylines is ridding the the will to wield the pen. And this consequence comes from delivering the truth halted by intimidation.

Today’s public embrace of journalism is full of paradox. How can someone be persecuted for being honest?

ERGO Jolo Adam G. Roque

roque.joloadam.g99@gmail.com

Circulations Managaner

everyone’s different capacities, this can change the knowledge of politicians.

We, students, are supposed to gauge crucial decisions in life, like in education, where success is in the line. We, youths, are

"It is terrifying to see yourself accompanying someone who has gone outside of the truth." supposed to reveal the truth, stand the truth, and always with the truth. We cannot let someone change the truth. "***** is my president. No matter what you believe, align yourself with what I believe," this is the first thing you will hear at the start of your class. What will you do? Stand

of others; selfish, isn’t it?

So, stand, speak, and act with what is right and best with the knowledge as power; do not let ignorance and fear engulf us since it can flow individuals through the roughness which majority of the Filipinos are experiencing, only those tough can survive.

Defenseless Armor... from page 15 | continue and make Filipinos be thrilled to bits? As the Omicron variant cases continued to soar, many were afraid of the face shields’ impending return considering that this newly-detected variant spreads faster than the previous ones.

Sadly, the defenseless armor that’s supposed to protect us appears to be just another capitalist revenue fueled by our suffering.

The people surely need more than this. It would surely be more favorable for the people if investments went on amelioration programs, rectifying health measures, and ensuring quality life amidst the pandemic.

with your belief, or just change your stand though you see it wrong? It is terrifying to see yourself accompanying someone who has gone outside of the truth. People with opposing ideas will pressure themselves, which causes them to disregard their opinions and change their beliefs to have an exemplary performance for their class.

An individual's education is one of the most important parts of our life. When we are going to hone our skills and understanding and create a mind that analyzes the situation and will pick the best choice among the choices.

But what if those who are supposed to hone our decision-making are the ones drilling their decisions in our minds? And what if they are succeeding?

Others' beliefs should not press the education of someone, education is for everyone, and everyone refers to every human with different background and belief. We must not take our belief in the most essential part of our life where our future is at stake. We must remember to focus on things we can gain from, not those that will bring us down further.

When the Tags... from page 14 | chose to walk the line of fire in the hopes of progressing the nation and helping the masses. Some even got killed for being the voice of the underrepresented sectors; the farmers, peasants, indigenous people, Lumads, even women, and the LGBTQIA+ community.

As a national democratic mass organization member, I am often asked why I joined such an organization. Seeing how evidently dangerous it is to participate given all the state-sponsored killings and red-tagging student activists are subjected to. To answer, I believe that activism is something that I do not do just because I enjoy it but because I need to. Never did I even imagine that I would be joining an NDMO. Nor attend rallies as my relatives constantly warned me not to join protests even before I went to college.

Still, my being an activist is partly because I am a university student. I have the privilege of having the education that allows me to critically analyze information about specific issues. However, as an individual, I can only go so far as to act for what I stand for, but joining a collective means being able to stand side by side with people who share the same values and ideals as me.

FEATURE 17

VOL. LXXXI No. 1 SEPTEMBER 2021 - JANUARY 2022

Honorian's Reservoir of Guilty Pleasures

by Julius L. Carlos | Photos by Cyrylle Daphne Z. Ocampo and Julius L. Carlos

A

mouth-watering essence conquers the Honorians’ sense of smell, superb displays of the kaleidoscope of colors are served on the very eyes of students, and a plate of guilty pleasures fills everyone’s stomach. All these boil down to one- carinderia.

A carinderia is a Filipino term used to refer to a local eatery that sells and serves meals. More so, carinderia is also a food stall with a small eating area that is typically in a market, school, and even at a roadside. This is also known as “turo-turo” which means “pointpoint” because customers are usually pointing out their orders. The term carinderia was coined in the 1920s. Looking into its precious and classic history, it was named “karihan” where the native Filipino dish “kare-kare” was served. The karehan originated way back in the time of Indians or the so-called sepoys who married Filipinas and resided in Taytay and Cainta. By then, they called curry dishes by the street and eventually karehan turned into carinderia.

For as much as food is a basic necessity, food stands or stalls such as carinderia play a pivotal role in providing the meals of each person. A starving stomach will be fulfilled through the consumption of one’s favorite food. Carinderias also serve as a last resort for those who are struggling in cooking, for those who do not have time to take a breakfast or lunch in the house as well as for those who want to make things smooth and have their breakfast instead as they go into the school. Even during the face-to-face classes, the Honorians spent most of their days and times in the school, and to sustain the rest of the day in the university, they choose a carinderia which fits their preferences.

So much so, there are a lot of notable carinderias in the vicinity of the university where Honorians can choose among the wide array of list of carinderias offering the plates of their guilty pleasures. There are carinderias situated in the public market, beside and in front of the College of Education (COE), in the College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA) as well as the famous so-called international eatery of the university-Honorians’ very own “Dubai”. Moreover, the carinderias are taking 5-7 hours of preparation to offer mouthwatering and budget-friendly meals to the Honorians, which is why it is very significant to say that carinderias have been anchored in every student’s life.

Meanwhile, these are the common and best seller meals according to the survey conducted to 60 selected Honorians. There are 31.7% of the total respondents/Honorians who said that Sisig is the best seller on the menu of the eatery. Another 18.3% emphasized that Fried chicken is the most common and best-seller. Also, 10% of the total respondents placed Sinigang as one of the common meals and best menus offered. Other common meals are: burger steak, adobo, kare-kare, chicken roll, chicken inasal, porkchop, kaldereta, lumpiang gulay, giniling, bistig, and afritada.

In a nutshell, these viands seemed and were deemed as best sellers for it satisfies the pocket, the stomach, and the guilty pleasures of every Honorians.

Kapampangans by nature are food lovers and are considered as good navigators in the sea of a vast array of ingredients, meals, and dishes. Hence, Kapampangan, from time to time, filled every stomach with an aromatic smell and served every person with mouthwatering dishes.

About the budget of meals, the data gathered among the selected respondents elicited that most of the Honorians said that their budget ranges from P50-P100 as to why they are choosing a place to eat that offers budget-friendly meals. Corollary to the aforementioned, the data also revealed that Honorians have considerations in choosing a carinderia such as the price of the meal, quality and quantity of it, ambiance of the eatery that can make them feel at home, and lastly, the rapport of the owner towards the students.

These considerations equate to their budget and satisfy their pleasures which eventually bring people to cloud nine that | to page 27

18 FEATURE

Features Editor: Kylie Mar B. Abegonia kylieabegonia@gmail.com

Books that You Must Read At Least Once in Your Life

by Kylie Mae B. Abegonia | Photo Courtesy from Google Images

H

The book 101 Essays That Will Change The Way You Think is a gamechanger especially if you are someone who is seeks to enhance and develop personal being more. This new collection of Brianna Wiest’s published writings includes essays on why you should pursue purpose over passion, how to accept negative thinking, see the wisdom in everyday routine, and how to recognize the cognitive biases that shape your perspective.

You will get hooked on its first couple of pages. This book shares that living in the present moment is very important to gain something that you want in your life.

Some of these works have never been seen before, while others have been read by millions of people worldwide.

Regardless, each will leave you thinking, "This transformed my life." So, go give it a try!

GENRES: ROMANCE NOVEL, PSYCHOLOGICAL & HISTORICAL FICTION

GENRES: CAREERS, SELF-HELP, PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

“The things you love about others are the things you love about yourself.

The things you hate about others are the things you cannot see in yourself.”

“When you realize you can tell someone your truth, when you can show yourself to them, when you stand in front of them bare and their response is ‘you’re safe with me’- that’s intimacy.”

A book vast now on social media reviews, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo follows an old Hollywood actress named Evelyn Hugo as she gives her life story over to a small-time journalist with whom she seems to have a connection. She narrates the story of her seven husbands and then discloses who her one true love is.

It makes a huge commentary on women owning their sexuality and their bodies. Also, documents the life of people in abusive relationships and people in LGBTQ+ relationships during the late 1900s. It makes a very poignant conversation about power and how it can cause you to lose more than you gain, and forces you to focus on what matters in life. This book is the definition of going after what you want and then realizing that maybe that thing is not what you truly wanted. Be prepared to be heartbroken and to connect to a character so fictional yet so real.

GENRES: ROMANCE NOVEL, HISTORICAL FICTION, LGBTQ+ LITERATURE

ave you ever found yourself in a situation where you are wondering if the world that you are living in right now is enough for you? Waking up and doing the same routine every day makes life boring for most people. Finding something that will truly set your soul on fire is a goal that a person must achieve for them to get a grasp of how good it is to be able to live in a world that they design. Have you read a book? Or tried reading one but eventually gave up because just seeing its pages makes you sluggish? Maybe you just need to find a book that will get you out of your reading slump, and so, this list of titles would be the right ones for you. Come let’s all take the escape route from reality and find a new home even just for a short time.

world.”

“I could recognize him by touch alone, by smell; I would know him blind, by the way, his breaths came and his feet struck the earth. I would know him in death, at the end of the

If you are a fan of history, mythology, poetry, or romance you will die to read Madeline Miller’s portrayal of Greek hero Achilles and his companion Patroclus. The Song of Achilles is a queer love story set during the events of the siege of Troy. Miller’s writing is short, concise, and lyrical in a way you’ve never seen outside of a poem.

Some people swear that this is the best book that they have read while others think that it just doesn’t live up to the hype. That being said, the best way to enjoy this book is to just read it without any expectations. This deserves your attention and it will not waste a single moment of your time but please ready yourself on the last couple of pages, you don’t want to just stare at the ceiling for hours wondering what happened.

BIOGRAPHY, AUTOBIOGRAPHY, MEMOIR

“Others will create your reality if you can’t make it for yourself.”

Into the Magic Shop follows the day that James Doty, a 12-year-old kid walked into his local magic shop is the day that made a remarkable change in his life. How the once-neglected son of an alcoholic father and a mother with chronic depression, become a successful neurosurgeon at Stanford University. This book will teach you to ease your sufferings and manifest more on what you desire in life so you will be able to reach your highest potential. Also, this book is the inspiration behind the BTS’ single “Magic Shop”.

FEATURE 19

Wake up, Dreamers written

by Demi also called by her readers as AnakniRizal is a Filipina author that first started her writing career in Wattpad and her works soon got published because of its huge demand. What will happen if a writer, a poet, an artist, a photographer, and a musician meet? This will be the turning point of the story. This novel is packed with life experiences and epiphanies. It talks about the family, support system, passions, courage, life, dreams, and above all, friendship. Each of the five characters represents people with enormous goals who are faced with many obstacles and doubts about the course they must take.

Highly recommended for individuals who are feeling lost, seeking inspiration, and, of course, the dreamers, You. Always know that Your Dream is Not Dead!

“In the future... if by some miracle you ever find yourself in the position to fall in love again... fall in love with me.”

We can’t end this without putting on a word of how good this book is. It Ends With Us will go after the life of Lily Bloom, who grew up in an abusive family, and fell in love with a homeless boy when she was 15. It is honestly a crazy story that addresses the tough topic of abuse in relationships so please check for the trigger warnings before diving into it. It will tell you that sometimes the one you love the most can end up being the one who will hurt you the most. Be prepared for heartbreak, but the end is worth it.

“You’re only poor if you give up. The most important thing is that you did something. Most people only talk and dream of getting rich. You’ve done something.”

Robert Kiyosaki narrates the tale of his two fathers in this #1 personal finance book of all time: his real father, whom he refers to as his 'poor dad,' and his best friend’s father, the man who became his mentor and whom he refers to as his 'rich dad.' One man had a good education and had worked his entire life, while the other chose the path of entrepreneurship, a path that led him to become one of the wealthiest men. Kiyosaki breaks down financial and million-dollar secrets in pictures and simple terms. It will completely change the way you look at life and what does it means to achieve financial freedom that most of us are struggling about. Give it a try and unlock the hidden millionaire in you.

Alas, we’re done! Those are the eight (8) of the most recommended books that you need to read at least once in your life. Have you read some of them? If not, please do so or add them in your TBR (to be read)!

No need to spend much as there are free digital copies available online to provide the book that you want.

You can also look for other works of the listed authors or other titles that will suit your taste. We can say that reading is not a kind of thing or hobby that one will enjoy as it gets boring sometimes, especially just by seeing their thick spines but to tell you, they are definitely worth the try.

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you are wondering if the world that you are living in right now is enough? Dive into the pages and a whole new world will open for you.

PERSONAL FINANCE, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, ECONOMICS

Patron Saint of Nothing follows the story of the protagonist Jay Reguero who is a Filipino-American who doesn’t know what he wants to do in his life after graduating from high school. He travels back to the Philippines after learning that his favorite cousin was killed as a suspected drug dealer under the War on Drugs of Duterte Administration. There, he confronts hard truths about his cousin and his own complacency in the issues that contributed to his cousin’s passing.

You must know that Randy Ribay did his research as Jay isn’t portrayed as some kind of hero who will enlighten and save us all from the drug war, instead it shows that he has a lot to learn.

“We’re all different.

The only thing that we have in common—we’re dreamers and we believe that the future is ours.”

NOVEL, CONTEMPORARY FICTION

“It strikes me that I cannot claim this country’s serene coves and sun-soaked beaches without also claiming its poverty, its problems, its history. To say that any aspect of it is part of me is to say that all of it is part of me.”

NOVEL, FICTION, CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE

GENRES: FICTION, MYSTERY, DYSTOPIAN

VOL. LXXXI No. 1 SEPTEMBER 2021 - JANUARY 2022

20 FEATURE PRELOVED ARE WELL-

LOVED The Beauty Behind Thrift Shopping

by Maynard P. Buan and Kylie Mae B. Abegona

H

ave you ever been in a situation wherein what would you first do when you have an event coming?

Buy a gift? Most likely, but it is how you would present yourself to everyone and they can be represented in these scenarios. First, you will rush into your closet and a minute later you will feel disappointed seeing the same clothes you have already worn. Second, you will look into your wallet to only see that you are short on money and can no longer buy even one pair of good-quality jeans. Third, you will get your phone and go online to search for affordable clothing that will suit your taste and the universe must have got your back as you run into this website, a map that says you have a place near you that is selling budget-friendly clothes.

There are many options; the only downside is they may be already worn by other people but are still in good condition–just perfect for your taste and in accordance with the theme of the event. So, lastly, the problem was solved.

From then until now, ukay-ukay has become rampant in our society where there are some sellers who are selling second-hand clothing which looks and are sometimes branded and has a good quality at affordable prices. It became the reason for the people to choose which is fitted for them in order to be fashionable on a budget, anywhere and anytime.

Ukay-ukay is a Filipino rendition of a "flea market" that originated over three decades ago and has since become the country's biggest bargain phenomenon. From rags to riches, it began as a shoe-string shop and has now developed into a successful fashion enterprise.

It was conceived from the Visayan word “halukay” which literally means “digging” or “making a mess”. Historically, it began

as a result of calamities, when second-hand items were brought from all over the world as assistance for those who were afflicted by the catastrophe.

However, for a range of factors, the goods accumulated and were sold to the trade market, which then sold the clothing to the general public.

BEYOND LIMITS Since the dust from the used clothing had to be rubbed off, the early secondhand businesses were dubbed "wagwagan." Initially, relieffor-sale shops primarily sold worn garments; but, as time went on, traders began to accept other products such as household items and toys. The thrill of seeking something you like that matches you and your preferences at a thrift store is the exhilarating feeling of "getting fortunate."

Some stores are air-conditioned and some are not, and you will really feel overwhelmed by the pile of different clothes, shoes, even bags to complete your outfit of the day as you can find items in different stores for as low as 10 pesos only. Not only that, as fashion follows a continuous cycle, with designers frequently attempting to recreate the aesthetics of the previous decades.

When shopping at second hand stores, you may usually find apparel from the past era that has now become one of the trends.

Despite the fact that these thrift shops have been there for a long time, how strongly they are entrenched in our society, and how large the need is, importing ukay-ukay has been banned in the nation for the past 55 years.

The importation of worn clothing for commercial use was prohibited by Republic

Features Editor: Kylie Mar B. Abegonia kylieabegonia@gmail.com

Act No. 4653 in 1996, a way to safeguard people's health and the country's dignity. This law is also elucidated as "an act to safeguard the people's health and maintain the nation's dignity by declaring it a national policy to prohibit the commercial importation of textile articles commonly known as used clothing and rags." Anyone found to be in violation of this law faces a sanction of P200 to P200,000 as well as a sentence of 2 to 5 years in prison.

In the 16th Congress, thenRepresentatives Rufus Rodriguez of Cagayan de Oro and Maximo Rodrigues of Abante Mindanao enacted House Bill No. 4055, which legalised the importation of worn clothes and rags in the nation. The next year, Counsellor Betty Lourdes Tabanda introduced yet another motion in the Baguio City Council. She says that ukay-ukay has been a source of income for many Baguio locals and a catalyst for their tourism. Furthermore, she stated that there is no solid proof that these imported items pose a health danger.

None of these attempts, however, were successful, and RA No. 4653 is still in use today.

One of the beauties of trading is that it has offered a sustainable livelihood to a huge number of families; with little money to invest, they began selling pre-loved items in their own house or yard, attempting to transform trash into treasure. With the passage of time, the Segunda Mano phenomenon gained societal acceptance and became a trend, propelling it from a local retail operation to a booming thread.

Clothing is one of the most fundamental human needs, and it plays an important part in

VOL. LXXXI No. 1 SEPTEMBER 2021 - JANUARY 2022

our lives. It acts as a barrier against cold and hot temperatures, as well as a sanitary barrier that keeps pathogens and hazardous materials out of the body.

It may also shield us from harm and pain, as well as aid navigation in a variety of surroundings, and provide UV protection.

"If there’s anything that ukay pride itself in, it would be the fact that it is affordable, unique, and worth it."

However, some indigenous people are out of reach for the privileged to look at and have their own outfits, which is why searching for high value at a low price is a daily endeavour.

It is also challenging for a low-income household to have nice clothing to wear, leading them to purchase outdated and worn clothing in order to have a decent outfit for any amount of money.

As a result, the transitory economic downturn has achieved the security needed to sustain local business in today's world, causing ukay-ukay to be inclusive to all, particularly the less fortunate.

CHANGING THE GAME In today’s generation, it is easy for us to shop and buy things instantly online. Whether you're looking for an out-of-print book or a vintage T-shirt from the 1980s, thrift stores are frequently the greatest place to seek products that are no longer in existence. Some sellers, particularly ukay-ukay sellers, use live selling as a new form of shopping in order to sell their products.

This strategy will give time for the buyers to pick what they want by browsing through local thrift shops and they can get authentic pieces that are hard to find anywhere else.

Ukay-ukay is a big business, many outlets and makeshift stalls can be found all over the nation.

With regards to the price range of the buyer, Shella Mae M. Magpayo, an ukay-ukay buyer, said that 50-100 pesos is her budget price range when she is buying thrift items.

FEATURE 21

Additionally, the data acquired from Ms. Magpayo also revealed the quality that she can find on branded are also in ukay-ukay, especially those clothes that are well-loved by their previous owners. “Mas affordable kasi ang ukay kaysa sa mga branded at marami ring magaganda sa ukay”, she stated.

One of the many reasons why she opted to thrift shop is its affordability. The beauty of ukay-ukay becomes visible to the eye of the consumers, especially this pandemic, that they can still be able to acquire branded clothes that won’t hurt their pocket but having said that, taking precautions and following protocols are still very important as these clothes are preloved so you need to wash them immediately as soon as you get home. The fact that ukayukay is economical and has a cheaper ratio is the key reason for its high consumption rate, especially among lower-income consumers.

For Filipinos, the option is necessitated by their circumstances, but it also meets the desire to be stylish at a low cost. We must always choose to be practical since regardless of the quality of clothes we purchase, it has the same purpose in our lives: to protect us.

One of the questions given to respondent which is a seller is about the price range of their selling product. According to Charence L. Gulapa, it ranges from 20-200 pesos depending on the items’ issue or flaws like an non washable stain or has a hole. The pandemic affected ukay-ukay businesses in a way of giving more hustle to the sellers in delivering the items before and during the implementation of safety protocols like quarantine as well as the consumers who are trying to order but when the items are delivered to them, they do not have enough money to pay. According to one more seller, Mayette B. Mesa,“di naman gaanong naapektuhan kasi ito naman ‘yung trend ngayon. Siguro naapektuhan lang sa part na may mga miners na pilit bumibili sa live kahit na alam naman nilang wala silang source of income o walang trabaho”. Regardless, ukay gives new hope to both the seller and consumer that even how hard it is to look for things that can be valuable to us but when we keep going we can find a treasure on nothing.

In our times today, it is always better to be practical. As long as the clothes that we have are of good quality and are doing their job to make us comfortable, then we don’t need to spend thousands just for them. More people want and need to dress at low prices which is the reason why they are joining the ukay-ukay craze. It's like treasure hunting; it's not always

simple, but it's worth it when you uncover stuff that is distinctive only to you. Thrift stores provide a far wider selection of apparel, so you're unlikely to see yourself wearing the same outfit as a friend or colleague. Ukay-ukay is great, it is a number-one shopping platform for second-hand happiness.

If there’s anything that ukay pride itself in, it would be the fact that it is affordable, unique, and worth it. You could be a natural thrift hunter if you get tired browsing for garments at department shops or boutiques where everything is nicely set out and well labelled. Shopping second hand allows you to rummage among the racks for your own unique finds, and a lively rivalry with other thrifters contributes to the fun. What is your Ukay Story?

If you haven’t tried yet this is your chance to enter a new magical world full of pre-loved items that you can cater to and give a new home to fully love.

Photos from unsplash.com

22 FEATURE

Features Editor: Kylie Mar B. Abegonia kylieabegonia@gmail.com

Only Idiots Repeat

Eternal Hell

by Jose S. Zaragoza III | Artwork by Eddie Marie Talens

F

erdi is a high school student currently in the 10th grade. Ferdi, just like any other student, dislikes studying. Why study how gravity works? Why learn the multiplication table when we have calculators?

Ferdi always ask himself these questions and would often contemplate dropping out. Among the many subjects that he has to endure, history irks him the most. It also doesn’t help that his teacher is stern when it comes to knowing the importance of learning history.

Whether we admit it or not, most of us are like Ferdi. Most of us do not see the importance of knowing the history and that is why most of us are also blind to the inner workings of its essence.

Maybe it is due to the fact that even after learning the nuances of our history, we can still never change the past. For pragmatists such as Ferdi, it is better to focus on the present rather than dwell on events that are beyond his context.

While this mindset has given birth to many innovations that have helped humanity, no one becomes an Einstein in a flash.

Even geniuses

commit mistakes and learn from them.

As Ferdi’s history teacher always say, people who fall over the same pit are idiots and not blind. We’re responsible for the country’s changes over time, sans learning from mistakes, we will continually repeat the cycle of suffering.

It is up to us to build a bridge or eternally fall over the same hellhole. Ferdi fails to realize that even the blind can learn from their mistakes and this failure in actualizing selfcorrection may stab him in the back soon.

Ferdi being young, he is oblivious to the effects of ignorance of historical importance.

Life will soon teach Ferdi that everything is political, even our actions based on the “history” we know.

Baseless claims and outlandish historical accounts are scourging the land,

spreading like wildfire, and for the ignorant, these claims may as well be the truth.

THE UN-GOLDEN AGE Revisionism, unlike denialism, can side with the truth. However, do not let this fool you for it can be as dangerous as the latter.

Lasco mentioned that revisionism can be a ‘euphemism for outright lights’ and he used claims that the Marcos regime was a ‘golden age for the Philippines’ despite the evidence, historical accounts, and even international contradiction proving it false as an example.

Debt reports from the Jubilee Debt Campaign show that the country’s external debt has increased to $26 billion from $8.2 billion in the span of the year 1977 to 1982.

This growth of $17.8 billion in debt is majorly due to the corruption-laden government of the Marcoses and their cronies.

However, when examining events, the credible

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VOL. LXXXI No. 1 SEPTEMBER 2021 - JANUARY 2022

evidences — which should be leaned on — are overshadowed by propaganda laced on fake news.

The spread of these outlandish claims are all attributed to poor fact-checking efforts.

Rights group Amnesty International tallied a total of 34,000 people tortured, 3,240 people killed, and 70,000 illegally imprisoned and detained from the year 1971 up to 1981.

To deny that the Marcos regime has created a sea of corpses and stole national resources is not just a simple attempt to refute a fact, but it’s also an attack on the survivors of martial law and its descendants.

The aim of this form of denialism and revisionism is not to ‘correct’ history but is an act to try to show that these victims are liars. and traitors to the country.

WHAT STARTS A FIRE? This form of revisionism and denialism is not only historical but is heavily political in nature. It is an endeavor to make a huge power shift between two political sides.

The more complicated and harder-toswallow answer is because of miseducation and ignorance.

Lualhati Bautista, a writer who went into hiding during the Marcos regime was invited to speak at a webinar hosted by the Asian Center for Journalism in partnership with other organizations such as the Ateneo De Manila University.

As Bautista reminisces the horrors of the Marcos regime and the heavily criticized martial law, a self-proclaimed fan of the novelist reacted to Bautista’s accounts as exaggerations in narrating a historical account.

In a sense, this reactor represents Ferdi and most of us. Some are ignorant of the past since our context are influenced with what we learned today is different. However, indifference to the stories of the past will lead to more mistakes in the future.

The internet is a double-edged sword.

Information being freer to access means higher vulnerability to fake news and propaganda.

Spearheads have taken advantage of these.

Even though the information to debunk them is widely available, many people are still having difficulty in distinguishing videos they see on Tiktok from to irrefutable historical evidence and accounts from various sources.

The comprehension to fact check and what even is peer-reviewed research and evidence is hard to come by in the common folk.

HOW TO EXTINGUISH A FIRE? Does this mean that they are not to blame for believing in the lies spread throughout social media? Definitely no. They especially share the blame if corrections and education from their colleagues fall on deaf ears. But this does not mean that the people who know better should be condemn those who refuse to listen.

Keep in mind that revisionism and denialism create an environment of distrust and hate. People are warier of ‘lies’ from the opposition than they are in examining the truth of what they believe in. If they believe that

Information being freer to access means higher vulnerability to fake news and propaganda.

everything that has been said about their history is all fraud, they too will also have difficulty in accepting and absorbing information that debunks these ‘truths.’

Empathy is important to slowly shed light on any attempts of distorting the truth.

It is impossible for people to have a change of heart overnight. It is also impossible for people to become magically smarter overnight.

Understandably, revisionism and denialism are anger-inducing and offensive.

If you are a martial law survivor or are a family of one, the current political climate wherein the Marcoses are being seen as innocent is surely an attack on your beliefs, an assault on what you fight for. However,

patience and empathy are the keys to slowly win this battle for the truth.

As much as the people who create these lies construct outlandish websites, videos, and posts, the way to combat this is to not lose in citing credible places to fact check. Share easyto-understand yet informative social media posts about martial law. You can even start by making one yourself. These attempts may all be in vain but an attempt nonetheless.

BEING BLIND IS BETTER THAN BEING A FOOL Ferdi is currently a successful entrepreneur. His business is booming despite not getting a college degree. However, his financial stability didn’t last for long. Ferdi got addicted to gambling.

Quoting a famous line from George Santayana, ‘those who never learn from history are doomed to repeat it.’ He kept on gambling despite suffering from huge losses and filed for bankruptcy at the age of forty.

Learning history isn’t just for accuracy.

It is a test for an essential quality to have in life: the ability for self-correction. It will serve as the obstacle to evaluate ourselves if we are capable of adapting and learning from past mistakes.

As Ferdi struggles to just make ends meet, he suddenly remembers the words of his history teacher.

People who fall over the same pit are idiots and not blind. He was young, he was foolish, but at this moment of his greatest struggle, he realizes that he has been a fool for disregarding the past because it is something that we can never put under a rug and just forget about it.

It will come back and stab us in the back.

Not having a college degree paired with his advanced age made finding a job more difficult than it actually was. *** But it is never too late for Ferdi, it is never too late for people like Ferdi. We can always prove to ourselves that we were just blind and not idiots falling over the same pit over and over again.

One thing Ferdi can learn from this experience is that history is forgiving because it teaches you that change is possible.

24 DEVCOMM

DevComm Editor: John Zenrick N. Valdez znrckvldz@gmail.com

OUTDATED TACTICS DO NOT WORK WITH THE NEW ERA OF PHILIPPINE POLITICS

W

by Marc M. Navida | Photos Courtesy to Edmond Dantès

hether the 2022 Philippine National Election will push through on May 09, 2022, or whether No Election would be implemented, the Presidential Aspirants continue to court Filipino people to choose them. This is how Elections and Politics goes in the country for centuries already; always boisterous and colorful yet candidates are puzzling.

But what makes the upcoming election different is the open-minded voters, especially regarding the elitist aspect of Philippine political politics which were reinforced usually by clientelism, nepotism, fraud, violence, and vote-buying, due to the vast-spreading mindfulness, which is believed to be healthy in a democratic country. And this is where new tactics of the candidates take place. They are platform-driven, and always present to any activities.

Like in Traditional Courting, the competition starts with showing off While President Rodrigo Duterte and the rest of the government are busy dealing with the country's current largest concern, the Covid-19 Pandemic, it is generally the candidates who step up to aid when disaster strikes. They are the ones who have the spotlight, which they employ to maximize

their assistance to the victims, such as during Typhoon Odette (Rai), which devastated most of Visayas' provinces.

One of Leni Robredo’s assets as a Presidential Aspirant is her way of going back to the grassroots level to be able to lend her helping hand to those who need it most, especially during the pandemic and the recent disasters the Filipino people have experienced. Just like the recent Typhoon Odette where she conducted a relief hub in the campaign volunteer center in Quezon City and coordinated with the Arm Forces of the Philippines that has made the accumulation of help even faster. Through these initiatives, she was able to accumulate over P42 Million in relief goods. Robredo has also become famous with her lugaw initiative during the Taal Volcano in 2020.

On the other hand, Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos, another Presidential aspirant who, according to polls conducted by various organizations, is one of the strongest candidates, has also moved with his partner, Davao Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, during the wrath of the typhoon. They've also teamed up with the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) to double relief efforts and promise to assist in the recovery and rehabilitation of the affected areas, as part of

their tagline "no one will be left behind."

When the aforementioned candidates have focused on giving reliefs and checking the affected areas, Senator Manny Pacquiao has considered rescuing and giving also reliefs to pets as part of his belief that all lives matter and since he is also a dog lover. His team has also lent help and merged with Vice President Leni Robredo Team and took the attention of his fellow candidate, persuading them to set aside politics and join together in helping the victims.

Manila City Council headed by Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso who is also a Presidentiable has allotted P2.5 million assistance to the provinces affected, like Cebu and other parts of Visayas and Mindanao.

Alternatively, Senator Panfilo Lacson pushed a 2-pronged formula in speeding up relief operations. While Partido Lakas ng Masa standard-bearer Ka Leody De Guzman, despite having limited resources, sought help and volunteers and redirected them to victims of the disaster.

The country and the Filipino citizens have seen all these initiatives and efforts through social media platforms hoping they will still have these many efforts even after the Election.

It will be a high hope made for the Filipinos the term shall headline pandemic recovery.

VOL. LXXXI No. 1 SEPTEMBER 2021 - JANUARY 2022

The upcoming beginning for a hope of an ending

Covid-19 Pandemic continues to be the biggest enemy of the country, not just to health security and safety but also economically.

The current administration has already gone through many efforts in lowering the cases and minimizing the impacts to many different aspects such as to medical resources and front liners, normal citizen workers, businesses, and other matters which are very important to the survival of the country. This is why, as an aspiring President, the candidate’s top priority when they get the seat is almost always facing the pandemic and focusing on it more than the government has ever prioritized it.

Isko Moreno is one of the government officials who got famous during the pandemic, along with Mayor Vico Sotto of Pasig City due to their vast and effective actions in controlling the impacts of the pandemic in their respective areas. With that, the burden and expectancy of people about him, if he will win the 2022 Presidential Race, is quite high. In line with this, he promised to focus on the problem more.

And to be able to solve it, he will replicate what he did in Manila. This generally boils down with his 10-point agenda which includes mass housing projects, field hospitals, free mass testing, and free COVID-19 medicine.

Similar to Moreno, Vice President Leni Robredo has always been present in helping many during the pandemic. She was able to do a lot despite having a small budget through maximizing initiatives and realizing volunteer help from the private sector. In the height of the pandemic, she was able to raise funds for her office’s program for vaccine inoculation like the Nagavax Express Projects which has vaccinated over 6,700 single doses in just two days.

She also stuck to her stand regarding vaccination, where she said that instead of forcing people to get vaccinated, offering them ayuda and help would be much more effective in motivating those who do not want to get vaccinated. As a part of her campaign, she said that she will allot P216 Billion Budget for ayuda in 100 days to be able to mitigate the effects of the pandemic or rather end it and avoid forcing people to get to work while on such a fight.

As the leading candidate in many polls

DEVCOMM 25

and surveys nationally and internationally, Ferdinand “BongBong” Marcos is expected to have strong plans regarding pandemics.

Based on his goals as a “unifying leader”, his beliefs lie on the capabilities of science and so he will be very certain in strengthening medical research, facilities, and healthcare human resources. He seeks to allow a higher budget for such. He calls the plan “Tawid Covid, Beyond Covid” with the utmost goal of improving the aforementioned.

Pacquiao on the other hand shares the same admiration with his fellow candidates and aims to focus on providing jobs, sustainable livelihoods, and improving the healthcare

of such, as well as the fact that the West Philippine Sea would never be negotiable, which the former should respect.

As for Marcos' latest opinion regarding the conflict, he said that he agrees with the policies and the dealings of the administration with China. He goes on to say that if war breaks out, the country will have no chance; a week is all it takes to lose.

Isko Moreno, on the other hand, sees things the other way around. His goals include increasing naval strength and purchasing more ships. He believes that the world needs to see the country as "fearless." That, he believes, is the only way for the country to stop being bullied.

Pacquiao on the other hand believes that being friends with China while not letting them bully the country could co-exist together and should not go alternatively.

If given a chance, his administration's priority over the territorial disputes would be firm but it will not be brushy.

Although Lacson has first-hand experience of being shooed by Chinese Ships, he maintains calm and wants to have a “balance of power” on the sovereign rights of the country on the West Philippine Sea and persuades other small countries to have their support over the bullies, China.

One of the most important events in the lives of Filipino fishermen is the impending election. They've previously experienced President Duterte's negligence despite his pledges to them during the 2016 Presidential debate, and they don't want to become despondent again, especially since they are the ultimate victims in this case.

This narrative will continue for the next few months. Stories about the candidates will continue to spread as it is the way to introduce themselves. system. While free vaccination, testing, and treatment would be Lacson’s focus.

All of the aspirants intend in prioritizing and ending the Covid-19 Pandemic in 100 days in any way they know. It is the hope of many people, and they are also hoping that it would not just end by receiving mere hope.

Retrieval of Filipino Fishermen’s long demise

Every Filipino who is aware of what the West Philippine Sea could bring in the development of the country, especially with regards to economics, knows that there is a need to hold on and fight for the sovereign rights of the country over the islands that are now being colonized by the country of China.

All factual information is leading to the bottom line which is indeed the Philippines has every right to such territories and natural resources. This is why having a concrete plan for the mentioned dispute of the country with China is one that is being considered in choosing the next leader of the country.

Inclusivity is crucial to Robredo, especially when dealing with foreign countries, but that does not entail invasions of the islands or other countries' rights, whether on land, air, or sea. Her stance on the matter remains unchanged, particularly in light of the Arbitral Tribunal's 2016 arbitral judgment. And, for her, the first step should be China's acceptance

Stories of yesterday could either change or wreck This narrative will continue for the next few months. Stories about the candidates will continue to spread as it is the way to introduce themselves. However, for a thriving country like the Philippines, promises are really important even if Filipinos have always had memories of broken promises If Filipinos continue to increase their strength and make their morale even higher, a true leader will conclude in no time.

26 DEVCOMM

DevComm Editor: John Zenrick N. Valdez znrckvldz@gmail.com

AXIE INFINITY: Man of the Hour Towards the Collapsing Economy Amidst Pandemic

by Nathalie Miranda and Ronnel Tiongco Photos by Cyrylle Daphne Z. Ocampo

P

andemic herded us to a lot of adversities and opens a window of opportunities to each individual. It is no secret that most of us suffered from agonies that led to a variety of investments, attempted to pursue such business, and strive assiduously to at least survive in day-to-day living.

One of the most prominent ventures currently is the Axie Infinity. Gamers tend to play just for leisure and entertainment however, tables have turned, paradigm shift betided. It is not the desperation that urges the netizens or players to penetrate the world of cryptocurrency but their hankering with regards to

helping with household expenses.

And truth be told, Axie Infinity is the game changer – a lifebuoy.

VICTORY OR DEFEAT: DIGITAL PETS DECIDES PLAYERS’ FATE An NFT (non-fungible token), a play-to-earn game produced by Sky Mavis in March 2018 which also possesses Ronin; a digital wallet, that may bag vast sums of money roared amid this trying time of us, humans, the voguish Axie Infinity. This Pokémon-style game where you can purchase on-screen or digital creatures called Axies amounting to $1, 500 each – is versatile in which they can use to fight, hoist, trade, and breed with other pets.

Axie Infinity is designed to seek two unique assets – Smooth Love Potion or SLP and AXS tokens. As a result of playing adventure games, winning arena matches, and consummating daily quests, you can earn your SLP – a resource required to breed Axies nevertheless, ensure to uphold the MMR or the matchmaking ranking minimum for you to collect your SLP. Higher MMR results in towering SLP and so, a soaring outturn will WIN STREAK. Angelyn Manalo, 22, a 4thbe. Alternatively, AXS year accountancy student plays AXIE Infinity Tokens are privileges in hopes of gaining both leisure and financial support for her education. where they can make decisions about the

future of the said game which you can trade your Axies in barter of AXS tokens or discover it upon playing.

Apart from its unembellished description above, Axie Infinity for some players or managers delineates it as “Just a game where you can also earn,” stated by an interviewee, an Axie scholar. Along with this was the divulgence of the owner of Team Intellectual Violence (TIV), Gerrick McFadden, “Axie to me was a way to make some money and learn more about crypto. Then it became an opportunity to make a business”.

A RAPPORT THAT WE ALL DESERVE A win-win situation constantly prevails in terms of a manager-scholar relationship and this is patent to the responses of the gamers – the scholars to be precise, “Our manager is giving us advice, strategies, and doesn’t pressure us at all”, “The relationship between me and my manager reveals how is the “hatian” when it comes to the earning and in my case, it is 60-40, 60% of the gains are mine and the remaining 40% are for my manager”, and from the standpoint of a manager, “I am not a jerk manager. I do not set quotas. I do not cheat people out of pay”. In regards to these statements, it actually conveys that the association between a manager and a scholar is to build a better team together rather than the money that can be possibly received.

WHEN OPPORTUNITY TRANSPIRED A century where our life twisted upside-down and an ambulance of optimism come into the crime scene and most of its victims cling into this piece of hope to surmount the pain and sufferings of the pandemic.

Most of the interviewees grab the opportunity to play this NFT game for one identical reason – money.

The general public is so much aware that during this anguished moment, we are obligated to stay at home for our safety and as a consequence, the domino effect applies – higher bills, less income, and prone to such sickness. And Axie Infinity or the world of crypto transforms these harsh conditions into a light in the middle of the mayhem of humanity for the reason that they were able to pay their bills – internet, tuitions, daily necessities, and many more.

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VOL. LXXXI No. 1 SEPTEMBER 2021 - JANUARY 2022

VOLATILITY, CAN YOU HANDLE IT? “SLP destroyed a lot of Axie Guild programs”, a statement from the TIV owner where he lost four players or scholars due to the capricious value of this playto-earn game. Investing doesn’t automatically mean earning immediately.

Some players took this as an encouraging way to build and breed their Axies, a number of them do not actually care about this as long as they are earning and wait until the value of SLP towers, again.

Online games are currently a trend in our society – for entertainment, leisure, earning, and sometimes to divert your attention or for distraction. It was extremely acknowledged by the managers and scholars that “do not take it seriously and get frustrated about it” and “be neutral with your emotions, whether you win or lose”. Axie Infinity also opened a door for new companions and a great way to enhance one’s intellect since calculation is necessary on attacks to measure the exact damage needed.

A RAINBOW OR A MASSIVE STORM? Axies are as colorful as the rainbow and so as its benefits to its investors. Playing Axie is somehow practical, especially amidst pandemic, and if and only if you are playing for yourself with a willingness to take a trial and error. However, it is not good to treat it as the only source of income for there’s no assurance or consistency that you will be able to get what you have invested right away, it is not an easy snap of a finger.

“Axie is a game that rewards you with money. I have fun building TIV and watching how high my people climb”, an ending quote from McFadden during the interview, the owner of TIV, an Axie Guild program wherein it is not just about how much you have earned, it is about the teamwork and camaraderie.

Honorians' Reservoir... from page 6 | anyone will do to find peace and make their craving satisfied after a long tiring day.

Unfortunately, as the pandemic altered and interrupted a wide range of aspects in our lives, the carinderias began to close as health protocols and sudden shifts of learning modality were implemented.

Consequently, owners suffered from predicaments, forcing them to loan to sustain the main source of their living.

According to Mrs. Rowena Gutierrez, owner of Judd Allen Snack Bar which is a carinderia located in the public market, stated that “unang-una sobrang naapektuhan kase ilang months din kaming tumigil dahil walang estudyante pero bumalik din kami sa pag-asang may kikitain dahil may mga outsiders naman kaso nga lang mahina ang benta.”

“Kaya para magkaroon ng customers, kung dati may student meal kami, inoffer na ‘din naming siya sa mga outsider,” she added.

Another carinderia owner who has been greatly affected by pandemic is Mrs. Aurora Pineda, owner of Pineda Sisigan located in Dubai, said that “nawalan kami ng pwesto. Humina ang kita kaya nagtitinda nalang ako ngayon gamit ang tricycle namin sa mga construction workers.”

Lastly, same predicaments were also experienced by Mrs. Maricel Laude, owner of Maricel Castro Eatery located in public market. “ang totoo niyan mahirap ngayon tapos kase matumal, nagkakautang kana diba kaya wala magaga kase ‘yan yung hanap buhay mo,” Mrs. Laude said.

The predicaments experienced by the owners of carinderia showed a shred of clear evidence that the pandemic has brought them a huge adjustment and challenge. As a result, the

owners formulated and utilized different strategies to continue earning for their living such as offering budget meals, selling among workers, and selling within their locations. In line with this, it has been suggested that the owners can utilize and integrate the power of technology to their business to create a wide range of circles of influence vis-à-vis the objective of gathering customers significant to increase in profit.

With all these in mind, carinderias are continuously providing meals to the people with utmost resilience despite the

The predicaments experienced by the owners of carinderia showed a shred of clear evidence that the pandemic has brought them a huge adjustment. and challenge. challenges. This only shows that the Kapampangan cuisine never fails to serve mouth-watering dishes and plates of guilty pleasures.

Having said that, it is amazing to think how the children of Don Honorio will once again witness their footsteps, smell the aroma of their favorite meals, feel the scorching heat of the sun, and be scolded by the guard for not bringing their identification cards with themselves.

All in all, the Honorians are looking forward to a better normal to experience again what they have experienced during the faceto-face classes and be filled with the reservoir of the finest meals alongside the university.

28 DEVCOMM

DevComm Editor: John Zenrick N. Valdez znrckvldz@gmail.com

KAPITULO XXII: Ani ni John Zenrick Valdez | Litrato ni Cyrylle Daphne Z. Ocampo

VIRTUAL LABORATORY. Vincent Lapid, a 3rd-year Medical Technology student performs his activities at home with the help of video tutorials that can be found online.

M

ula pagkabata, itinatanim na sa isipan ng bawat isa ang kahalagahan ng edukasyon. Ayon nga sa isang pamosong kataga, “Edukasyon ang susi sa tagumpay,” na kung saan sinasalamin nito ang hangarin ng edukasyon na hulmahin ang bawat isang mamamayan upang maging kapaki-pakinabang na indibidwal at para na rin sa kanilang buhay na tatahakin sa hinaharap. Kung susuriin, ilang henerasyon na rin ang nagpatunay na totoo nga ang katagang ito, ngunit maging kahalintulad pa kaya ng tinatamasa ng mga punla noon ang maaaring aniin ng mga bagong tanim ngayon?

Matatandaan na noong panuruang taon ng 2012-2013 nang unang ipinakilala ang programang naghatid nang malawakang pagbabago sa sektor ng edukasyon sa bansa — ang programang K-12. Kaugnay ng pagsasabatas ng Republic Act 10157 of 2012 o ang batas na nag-uutos na ang lahat ng batang Filipino ay dapat na dumaan muna sa kindergarten bago sumabak sa unang baitang o grade 1, at Republic Act 10533 o ang “Enhanced Basic Education Act

of 2013,” ay ang pagsusulong ng pagbabago ng kurikulum mula sa kasalukuyang bersyon at mula sa kasalukuyang panuruang taon hanggang sa mga susunod pa.

Layunin ng pagbabagong ito na dagdagan ng dalawang taon ang dating apat na taon sa sekondarya.

Sa dagdag na dalawang taon, maaari piliing ipagpatuloy ang kolehiyo o magtrabaho na agad.

Nakapaloob sa dalawang taon na dagdag sa sekondarya ang iba’t ibang track na kinabibilangan ng Academic¸ Technical-Vocational-

Livelihood, Sports, at Arts and design Track, na maaaring piliin ng bawat mag-aaral upang kanilang maging specialization.

Samantala, bukod pa sa nakikitang rason ng pagimplementa ng kurikulum na ito tulad ng layunin na mas taasan pa ang lebel ng edukasyon sa bansa, isa rin ang katotohanan na tanging bansang Pilipinas na lamang ang walang ganitong klase ng kurikulum.

Ngunit, sa mga lumipas na mga taon na nasa implementasyon

na ito, naging kaakibat na ng mga benepisyo na hatid ng bagong kurikulum ang mga problemang nagsulputan sa likod nito.

Unang Pahina: Mga Problema at Dilema Isa sa unang nakitang problema sa mga pasimulang taon ng pag-implementa ng bagong kurikulum ay ang kakulangan ng mga mahahalaga at konkretong panuntunan para rito. Dahil dito, ibayong pagkalito sa parte ng mga

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VOL. LXXXI No. 1 SEPTEMBER 2021 - JANUARY 2022

guro ang umusbong, bagay na siya namang nagresulta sa mga problema sa parte ng mga magaaral.

Bukod pa rito, ang kakulangan sa mga guro, silidaralan, at mga bagong learning materials ay ilan din sa mga nakitang problema na nakaugnay sa programang K-12.

Ayon kay Rolando Delos Reyes II, Guidance Service and Public Relations Officer ng UP Diliman, ang kakulangan sa mga guro ay nagreresulta sa ilan na nabibigyan ng asignaturang ituturo na taliwas sa kanilang pinag-aralan sa kolehiyo. Karagdagan, sa parte ng mga mag-aaral na unang sumabak sa SHS, bagama’t mayroong isinasagawang mga career orientation program, mayroon pa rin mga mag-aaral ang nagkakaroon ng kalituhanan sa pagpili ng track kanilang pipiliin.

Sa pagdating ng mga unang nagsipagtapos sa SHS, ang alignment ng mga kursong kukuhanin ng mga mag-aaral ay isa rin sa problemang nakita ng mga kaguruan sa kolehiyo.

Ayon nga sa ilang mag-aaral, tila nasayang lamang ang dalawang taon nila sa SHS gayong hindi naman nila ito nagagamit at ilan pa sa mga asignaturang itinuro sa SHS ay nauulit lamang sa kolehiya.

Kung susumahin, ilang taon na rin mula nang unang naimplenta ang kasulukuyang kurikulum sa sekondarya, ngunit ang mga problema ay hindi pa rin nagbabago at taon-taon pa rin na idinadaing ng ilang mga guro at mag-aaral.

Ayon kay DepEd Undersecretary Joel Sy Egco, mula 2019 ay nagsisimula na ang period of refinement ng kasulukuyang kurikulum. Ngunit ang natitirang katanungan dito ay paano naman ang mga unang graduates ng K-12 program?

Pangalawang Pahina: Ang Sektor ng Edukasyon sa Gitna ng Pandemya Dulot ng hindi inaasahang pagsulpot ng COVID-19 noong

problema sa parte ng mga magaaral at guro. Naging maugong ang mga usapin patungkol sa mental health buhat ng ilang mga mag-aaral na isinuko ang buhay dulot di-umano ng stress

"Lingid sa kaalaman ng nakararami, ang inakalang solusyon sa kasalukuyang problema ay siya rin naging mitsa sa pagsulpot ng mga bagong problema."

Disyembre ng taong 2019, kabilang ang sektor ng edukasyon sa mga sektor na lubhang naapektuhan ng pangyayaring ito. Ika-17 ng Marso taong 2020 nang matatandaang isinailalim ang buong Luzon sa Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) na siya ring naging mitsa ng pagsasara ng mga paaralan at pagkakahinto ng mga mag-aaral sa pagaaral. Samantala, bilang remedyo sa ilang buwan na pagkakahinto ng mga magaaral sa pag-aaral, Setyembre ng kaparehong taon nang magsimula ang transisyon mula face-to-face classes o traditional learning sa distance learning na kung saan ipagpapatuloy ng mga mag-aaral ang kanilang pag-aaral sa pamamagitan ng modular setup at online setup.

Lingid sa kaalaman ng nakararami, ang inakalang solusyon sa kasaluyang problema ay siya rin naging mitsa sa pagsulpot ng mga panibagong

na nararanasan sa online class.

Bukod pa rito, ang problema sa kung paano masusuportahan ng mga unibersidad, kolehiyo, at eskwelahan ang mga mag-aaral na nangangailangan ng hands on na pag-aaral, kabilang na ang mga kursong mayroong laboratories, o mga skill-based programs ay

patuloy pa rin na nakikita.

Sa kabilang dako, sa kasalukuyan ay nasa ika-apat na taon na sa kolehiyo ang ilan sa mga unang batch ng K-12 SHS graduates. Kung titignan nang mabuti, tila doble-malas ang nararanasan ng mga mag-aaral

sapagkat wika nga ng ilan sila na ang unang sumabak sa transisyon ng basic education curriculum at enhanced basic curriculum sa sekondarya, nasaklaw pa sila ng online class dulot ng pandemya.

Kaya naman, ibayong pangamba ang namamayani sa bawat isa kung tatalakayin ang usapin sa kung paano sila pagkatapos ng kolehiyo.

Bunga ng kaliwa’t kanang problemang kinahaharap ng sektor ng edukasyon sa bansa, hindi maitatangging tunay na mas malaking problema pa ang maaring kaharapin mula sa loob ng sektor - hanggang sa iba pang sektor na tiyak na maaapektuhan nito. Sa katunayan, ayon sa National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), tinatayang aabot sa humigitkumulang Php 11 trillion ang productivity losses na kaharapin ng bansa sa loob ng 40 taon dulot ng pagkakasara ng mga paaralan.

Sa mga nailathalang problema sa sektor ng edukasyon sa bansa, ang katanungan na lamang sa kasalukuyan ay kung paano ang magiging takbo ng buhay ng mga tao sa hinaharap. Mauuwi na lamang ba sa wala ang lahat ng pagod o magiging masagana pa rin ang ani sa kabila ng walang tiyak at maayos na gawi?

30 LITERARY

Literary Editor: Stephen Roy Galang stephenroy.galang@gmail.com

ISANG LINGGONG BANGUNGOT

By Patrick Bryan H. Porras | Dibuho ni Kay Patrick G. Tadeo

Lunes, sa piling ng mga ahas, ako'y nagpupumiglas; Pumupulupot sila na mistulang sa aki'y may poot, Sa bawat kagat ay panipis nang panipis ang aking kalamnan, Hanggang sa matang dilat ko na lamang ang naiwan.

Martes, ako'y nakahiga sa kama na gawa sa karayom, Tila isang manok na pinatpat– Butas-butas ang balat at ang dugo'y dumadanak.

Ang huling halakhak ko'y tilaok, animo'y ginilitan.

Miyekules, sa lugar ng mga higante, isa akong langgam, Walang kalaban-laban at inaapak-apakan.

Hanggang sa ako'y napagtripan ng mga dambuhalang isa lang ang mata, Pinagpira-piraso ako nila, mula ulo hanggang paa.

Huwebes, sa planeta naman ng mga alien.

Naglaro kami ng tagutaguan, ang unang

matagpuan ay babatuhin ng kometa.

Dahil hindi ko kabisado ang lugar, ako madalas ang nakikita ng taya; Kaya nangulapol ang mga bukol sa aking katawan, lalo na sa mukha.

Biyernes, sa mundo ng mga engkanto, Ginawa nila akong alay sa kanilang diyos na si Krisostomos Damonyos.

Binalatan, dinukot ang laman-loob, piniga ang dugo, At sila'y umawit, humalakhak, umulyaw, sumigaw, at sumayaw sa ilalim ng bilog na buwan.

Sabado, kapiling ko naman ang mga tayho– Mga nilalang na katawan ay tao, ngunit nag-aanyong kabayo.

Kiniliti nila ako, pero hindi ito nakatutuwa, Sapagkat ang kanilang ginagamit ay ang kanilang mga dila na matulis pa sa tabak ni Damocles.

Linggo, mga tao ang nasilayan ko habang ako ay nasa matarik na entablado.

Hindi ako hari at hindi rin ako prinsipe, Ako ay ipinako sa krus dahil ilegal sa mundong iyon ang pagsusuot ng damit, Kaya bilang parusa, sinaplutan ang aking leeg gamit ang lubid.

Natapos ang linggo, mula Lunes hanggang Linggo, ito ang laman ng panaginip ko.

Minsan, akala ko ay totoo, napapaiyak na lamang ako.

Nangingitim na ang aking mga mata, Madalas ding manghina ang katawan ko.

Kapag ako ay gumigising, hindi pa rin sapat ang aking tulog.

Pumipitik ang mga ugat sa aking utak, Napapadalas na rin ang aking pag-isip ng kung ano-ano.

Minsan, pakiramdam ko ay hindi lang ako ang tao sa aking kwarto.

Dumatal ang isang araw, napansin na ni mama ang pagbabago sa aking mga kilos.

Tinanong niya ako kung may problema ba ako, Niyakap ko lamang siya at ako ay humikbi sa balikat niya, Humagulgol ako nang humagulgol, parang bata na inigawan ng kendi.

Makalipas ang araw na iyon, dinala ako ni mama sa isang eksperto, Maraming itinanong ang espesyalista sa akin at halos nasagot ko naman lahat.

Ani mama, "Doc, ano po ang sanhi kung ba't nagkaganito ang anak ko".

Tugon naman ng doktor, "Exposed siya sa mga negatibong balita sa social media, Misis".

VOL. LXXXI No. 1 SEPTEMBER 2021 - JANUARY 2022

LITERARY 31 An Astral Solemnity

By Stephen Roy T. Galang Artwork by Paul Chester S. Galang

As the stars align, we shall gather for their names, Rites of the enthralling throne shall rise once again, Will you all but succumb to their outrageous claims?

To whom shall you pledge your auspicious loyalty?

Could it be the long-lost Prince, riddled of the past?

Can he see his reflection, or someone else's?

Would forgiveness have truth and lies blur its contrast?

To whom shall you pledge your auspicious loyalty?

Could it be the loving Queen, favored by many?

Can she waive the grasp of those with the playing hand?

Would the damned palace prosper for her charity?

To whom shall you pledge your auspicious loyalty?

Could it be the wishful Captain, firm believer?

Can he stay true to horizons of the future?

Would the distant generations find their weaver?

To whom shall you pledge your auspicious loyalty?

Could it be the brave Hero, a champion to all?

Can he heed the call, or just history’s new feat?

Would the experiences he had be his downfall?

To whom shall you pledge your auspicious loyalty?

A "Touching" Change

By Regine A. Malonzo Artwork by Dyan Therese Lim

As I close my eyes, a memory flashed The pandemic's reel’s rolling for three years.

Who would have thought this made the world so rushed?

To shift into shocking life, it appears?

The people-squeezing cities vanished fast, Hands and feet are afraid to see their flock, Covered smell of hellos inhales a must.

Cam-captured places suffocate their lock.

But mere upside-down this chaos would bring, Connects us to name a "touch" virtually, Saying "present" now clicks a screen, blessing, What we need, one knocks the door, "1, 2, 3".

The quiet phone rings, it woke up my mind, Realizing there's something I should find.

Could it be the stern Veteran, everlasting?

Can his old, proven ways cast a radiant future?

Would time ever be so kind, or be left waiting?

To whom shall you pledge your auspicious loyalty?

Could it be the hopeful people, heads held up high?

Can they finally witness the sun rise for them?

Would their choice be firm, or left hanging in the sky?

To whom shall you pledge your auspicious loyalty?

32 LITERARY

Literary Editor: Stephen Roy Galang stephenroy.galang@gmail.com

Muling Paglipad

by Ellyza Loise B. Del Fin Dibuho ni Rudolf Ian Canlas

Ilang buhay pa ba ang masasayang?

Dahil ‘di na tayo natututo sa ating mga kamalian?

Bakit paulit-ulit na lang?

looplooplooplooploop

by Angelica Ann M. Romero | Artwork by Kyla Jin Gregorio

Sun ascended, radiantly enough to blind me, It took me a minute before I stood up and get myself a coffee, Slowly, I gained enough cognizance to feebly stare outside through the window of my room, It’s been months of being stuck in this endless cycle, frankly, it gets me consumed.

The painful rays of the sun woke me up with a withered throat, What day was it again? Time is indeed relative, but right now, I’m convinced it is a hoax, Slowly, I gathered enough strength to stand up and wait for this another day to end, With laziness seizing my whole existence, I forcibly grab my sketchbook and a pen.

It’s noontime for sure, as the bright sun did its job of waking me up, Thoughts kept surging in my mind as I made myself another cup, Slowly, I realized that I no longer had the strength to face another day, I think I’ve had enough of this reality, yet I want to silently hope and pray.

I let out a heavy sigh as there was nothing I could draw, I knew from the very start, home is not where I belong,

Yet fate has its own way of doing things, Worse luck, it’s not how I wanted it to pull the strings.

Living a solitary life is tough but through art I survive, Through wandering into places that made me feel alive, Through drifting into places I’ve never been before, They were kept in my sketchbook for me to adore.

Helplessly, I stroke my hair, It has been months since I had these blank stares, To be left alone in this four-cornered space, Also means to be drowned in anxiety and inevitable menace.

With all the chaos that this world offers, I found my sanctuary in creating arts as I wander, Yet fate has its own way of doing things, And containment is the last thing I’d like to ring.

There’s no chain in my hands yet I couldn’t move, Right here, right now, I got nothing to prove, It suffocates me like a prisoner under the sea, Under the ocean of great agony.

Parang ibon sa hawlang ‘di na makalipad ‘Di na makita ang mundo na dati’y kung saan-saan napapadpad Kaya ang utak ay unti-unting nalulunod, Sa karagatan ng kalungkutan at paninibugho.

Marinig ko pa kayang muli ang halakhak ng aking mga kaklase?

Namimiss ko na ang mga kwentuhan at chikahan, Pati na ang pagkakaisa at pagtutulungan namin sa klase.

Kaya sana’y tayo ay magtulungan, Dahil sa simpleng gawi’y makakasagip tayo ng buhay.

‘Wag sanang mawalan ng pag-asa, Matuto tayo sa ating pagkakamali at manampalataya.

RULE OF THIRDS NEW NORMAL HEROES

STAPLE FRONTLINERS

CYRYLLE DAPHNE Z. OCAMPO

FRANCES R. DE LEON

33

7 DAYS FOR 7 YEARS. Brothers Raymond, 32 (left) and Rico Narciso, 34 (right) have been working 7 days a week for 7 years in the Municipality of Santa Rita, Pampanga.

SLOPING STACK. An ortelano (farmer) lifts more than 6 kilos of puntuk (freshly reaped stack of rice) for milling. Two years after the pandemic, it's still challenging for them to earn enough.

THRICE THAN USUAL. According to them, collecting and emptying the dump truck takes three rounds, a stark contrast from the one round trip before the pandemic.

RISKY MASKS. Although face masks protect farmers from risks, they prefer not to wear them during work as they struggle to breathe and do their job efficiently.

NEW NORMAL, OLD PROBLEM. The Philippines remains as the fourth greatest producer of solid waste among ASEAN countries, with 14.66 million tons of trash generated each year (United Nations Environment Programme).

FIRST TO SOW, LAST TO EAT. John, 22, stated it's a struggle for farmers like him to keep their livelihoods at bay, not only because of the impact of the pandemic but also due to the insufficient support and protection they receive.

34 SPORTS

Sports Editor: Daniel Louis Y. Mallari dlymallari@gmail.com

Request Back-Up: Women

E

sports took the world in a storm in this technological age as it reaches greater heights for the past decade. From a mere entertainment platform, it advanced to be known as one of the worldwide sporting avenues that stage competitions or tournaments with at most million-dollar prize pools.

Unfortunately, the professional and amateur leagues are still dominated by men—while women are thrown at the sideline.

In the 2019 report of Interpret, there is 30.40% females who indicated to have at least watched an esports event or tournament. For the records, a six-percent growth occurred over the last two years. Furthermore, there is 35% females who play games considerably in esports on consoles or computers. Thirty percent of them identified themselves as esports watchers, but only 20% did watch esports leagues.

The “Gamergate” scandal in 2014 is one example of issues experienced by women in the esports industry. This controversy involved male gamers targeting women players. Despite these issues, they are still on the move as more female esports teams are established today. It is undeniable though that sexism, misogyny, or gender bias still exists today.

In a study found in the Journal of Sports and Social Issues in 2018, it shows that female streamers are more sexualized and white knighted. These implicate that women are less capable in the industry, or judge them with lower standards—talking about a more moraldamaging standard. There are even discussions where female streamers are only viewed due to their appearance rather than their gaming mechanics or streaming content.

The abovementioned stereotypes are aimed to be brought down by companies that establish women esports teams. Still, this move seems to not grasp its declared purpose as when Logitech built a team called Girl HK, a League of Legends team in 2015. The team was built with non-professional players which did not help in improving the image of female gamers. There were other groups who did the same. In some cases, the recruited players are more models (showing little to no knowledge on the game they are playing) than professional

or amateur gamers.

Similar to other sports, there is also a huge profit difference for women and men

...supporting each other and each gender to have equal opportunities should be our responsibility. esport professionals. In top paid esport players ranking, it is the StarCraft II player Sasha Hostyn (Scarlett) who topped the women’s division with an estimate of $401,941.19 overall earning. However, including males,

she is placed below the Top 300. Notably, the lowest overall earning in the top 100 is $954,620.62 which presented larger gap.

Since there is no international esport committee, addressing this dilemma must be felt by all individual esport companies and organizations which launched local and international competitions. By the records, there is almost zero if not none female players who participate in world-level esport competitions. There might already be equal opportunities based on individual skills and gaming mechanics. If that so, are female players left behind or only ignored? Regardless of the answer, is it hard to give all genders chances to showcase their skills?

Similar to physical sports and other professions, it is undeniable that there is indeed a huge difference between the wages of males and females. Advocates have been in a long battle to resolve this matter, but the progress is still unseen. If the support or fans of female esports is the one lacking in number, this must be a cry to the public. We indeed have our own preferences, but supporting each other and each gender to have equal opportunities should be our responsibility.

VOL. LXXXI No. 1 SEPTEMBER 2021 - JANUARY 2022

CHASING HISTORY, ENDING DROUGHT

SPORTS

35

Williams’ stellar debut averts Hotshots’ late rally; lifts TNT to 1st PBA title after 6 years

by Rodney Liwanag

BACOLOR, Pampanga—The Don Honorio Ventura State University (DHVSU) gymnasium witnessed a historic moment—a much-awaited shimmering gold.

Mikey Williams and TNT Tropang Giga ensured that their highly anticipated Philippine cup stint would not go for naught as they capped a remarkable career with a 94-79 conquest of Magnolia Hotshots in the coveted 46th PBA Philippine Cup. Proving to be steadier down the stretch, TNT Tropang Giga pounced hardly on the head start and mounted commanding domination to stage a fairytale run against an obdurate Magnolia Hotshots, sealing Game 5 of their best-of-seven title series last Friday (October 29).

It was a nerve-wracking conquest for the Chot Reyes-mentored squad as they managed to maintain their tenacity, courtesy of the “Super Rookie” Mikey Williams’ heroics coming into the second half as he took charge for the whiteand-blue shirts.

Hailed as the fourth overall pick of this year’s PBA Draft, Williams averaged 27.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.8 assists which catapulted him to his Finals MVP award.

The 30-year-old mighty point guard Mikey Williams steamrolled TNT’s offensive load with his impressive 24-point performance output while getting great help from the RR Pogoy-

GO FOR GOLD. TNT Tropang Giga pose as victors in the 46th PBA Philippine Cup. Photo courtesy to PBA Images.

Jayson Castro duo who added 29 combined points in their team’s winning effort.

Tropang Giga’s team captain came out big as Ryan Reyes continued his consistent form, anchoring the team with nine baskets including their 17th point in the eight-minute mark.

Meanwhile, the Kapampangan-duo from Magnolia, Ian Sangalang, and the Best Player of the Conference Calvin Abueva felt short as they tried to rally the Hotshots in the second half but they missed to get any closer than 15 markers against the gritty Texters.

VISION

MISSION

A lead university in producing quality individuals with competent capacities to generate knowledge and technology and enhance professional practices for sustainable national and global competitiveness through continuous innovation.

DHVSU commits itself to provide an environment conducive to continuous creation of knowledge and technology towards the transformation of students into globally competitive professionals through the synergy of appropriate teaching, research, service and productivity functions.

Honorian alumnus Jayson Castro felt nothing but euphoria in their dominant victory as it showed the whole team’s seniority and hardship in their training in the said sporting event. More so, Castro noted that playing in his beloved alma mater was an additional motivation for them.

“I never imagined that I will win one of my championships at my school. This one is super special for me. I’ll never forget this championship. Playing in my alma mater was added motivation for me," said Castro.

Texters kept their rhythm right from the getgo as Williams dominated the second quarter inside the paint against Magnolia’s towering defense with guards Kyle Pascual and Ian Sangalang providing floor spacing to zoom to a 17-6 run to anchor a deciding 38-10 lead.

After cutting the deficit to 16, Calvin Abueva, started to get things going in favor of the 2018 Governor’s Cup champion as they posted excellent gameplay to crawl back from 16 points down into a slim 73-59 to start the fourth quarter.

Paul Lee and Mark Barroca's last salvo efforts were not enough to scare as entry of Castro and Williams in their offensive actions ended their nip-and-tuck affair at 94-79.

TNT Tropang Giga caps their much-awaited PBA title, ending a six-year title drought since 2015 after winning against Rain or Shine.

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Sports Editor: Daniel Louis Y. Mallari dlymallari@gmail.com

A Journey Through Pedaling:

WHAT’S YOUR BIKE TYPE?

SMOOTHER AND LIGHTER FOR THE BETTER Want a bike just smooth and light for racing and riding on paved roads? Then take the sleek-looking road bike which are men and women’s styles and have a wide range of sizes with narrow wheels and tires, dropped curving handlebars for a powerful and aerodynamic riding position (but some have a flat bar like mountain bikes) with a small seat, and lots of cogs or gears on the back wheel. Road bikes are also referred to as “racing bikes” for they look fast. Many find them uncomfortable on the unpaved trail, likely due to them not having front or rear suspension. Notably, they are lighter than any bikes because of their frame, wheels, and components, making them not suitable for carrying heavy loads, such as touring or commuting.

Moreover, road bikes have many categories which also possess unique features: touring bikes, adventure road bikes, cyclocross bikes, triathlon/time trial bikes, and the likes.

CROUCHING AGAINST THE WIND Are you a pro in terms of bike racing? Then from the lighter type road bike, this type, one of the racing bikes’ categories, will be the heavier one: the time trial/ triathlon bike that is designed for straight-line speed as this bike has more aerodynamic properties than the road bike through its special handlebar (i.e. triathlon bars/aero bars) that will allow you to crouch forward while riding to reduce the drag resistance against your body, making the position on this bike quite different to the road bike (that they have slightly different muscle groups). Time trial bikes are also good for bike racing, yet not recommended for massstart racers, unlike regular road bicycles, considering how you will find your goldilocks position for a minute or an hour and are more staggered than other racing bikes. This type of bike may have either solid disc or spoked wheels, and unless they have discs, the brakes are usually rubbish, too; road bikes, on the other hand, are easier to operate since they integrate some of the aerodynamic principles pioneered on time trial setups.

by Ryza Carmela L. Salta Artworks by The Industrialist Artists

THE ROUGHER, THE TOUGHER In contrast to road bikes, mountain bikes or the All-Terrain Bicycle, (coming from its name) are destined for the rough off-road like steep trails because of its flat or upright handlebars, a very low gear range, and sturdy frames and wheels, and the wide-gauge treaded tires. It is perhaps the most popular category of the bike.

On the same side of road bikes, mountain bikes have their types too since most of these types have shock absorbers or suspensions (e.g., coiled spring, air, or gas shock). Mountain bikes with both front and rear suspension are called full-suspension bikes or duallies, while All-Terrain bikes with no suspension are called rigid. The other types are the fat bikes, Cross Country (XC), Downhill bikes, Trail, All Mountain (Enduro), Downhill (DH), etc. Additionally, mountain bikes can be heavier touring or commuting bikes that you can say, “Mountain woo!”

FIXIES ARE PIXIES “Keep moving forward” about life is the perfect example of the type of bike that does not have a brake as it possesses single gear, so if it moves, you must pedal and be the brake itself: the simple track/fixed-gear bicycles which are not that prevalent today and are designed to be ridden on the velodrome or indoor/outdoor track. Fixies are not advisable for those who do not know the difference between a regular bike and the fixie for it may take you to the hospital. Instead, take a bike with brakes and flip-flop rear hub (fixed on one side, freewheel on the other). There are as many color possibilities as there are price ranges, ranging from all-black to chrome to “bag of Skittles” and these track bikes have narrow tires and are filled to a high pressure to reduce rolling resistance. They either have drop handlebars or flat/ upright handlebars. Furthermore, track bikes are sometimes preferred for commuters and other riders because of their simple designs that make them easy to maintain. In addition, this type has been there before freewheels.

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here have been huge changes in how humans strive, specifically on transportations since the pandemic started. Bicycles are more likely to be seen as a new hobby, for fitness and health (for humans and the environment), and mode of transport for others, because public transportations are either prohibited or limited in specific

THE UPRIGHT TWO-FACED FACADE Contrary to other racing bikes, the chillin’-like-a-villain hybrid bike can be destined for you! The mixed of a road bike and mountain bike—which in the 1990s replaced the European-style utility bike in North America—has upright handlebars, light frames, and large-padded seats that will give comfortability best for strolling around your neighborhood or bike paths, short-distance commuting, and errands around town. These bicycles are usually mediumwidth with a semi-smooth tread, to provide a fairly smooth ride on pavement, but enough cushion and grip on unpaved trails. Thus, it is ideal for either paved or unpaved roads. Still, hybrid bikes are not as efficient as road bikes to paved roads and are inappropriate for rough off-road mountain bike trails. Additionally, most hybrid bikes have front suspension to smooth out small bumps, but some are fully rigid.

THE BUSY ROLLING CITY The most common bicycle we can see on the streets today is the general descriptive term, quick-yet-solid and predictable handling “city bike” or the “commuter” or “urban” bike for the reason that it can be used not just for riding, but for commuting in a city that other bikes are quite well with it. Nevertheless, there are certain types of bikes that some people have in mind when they use the term “city bike” and deep potholes, drainage grates, and jumps off city curbs are all problems that this bike can handle better because of its built. It is normally fitted with full fenders for use in all weather conditions.

Few city bikes may have enclosed chain guards equipped with suspension forks similar to mountain bikes, or they may come with front and rear lighting systems for use at night and in bad weather. Also, city bikes are sometimes referred to as Dutch bikes for their resemblance to the everyday bikes used in Amsterdam and other bike-friendly European cities.

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places to prevent the spreading of the virus. However, every pedal has its kind, and every kind has its strength which has progressed and progressed; that in-depth with bicycles, there are different kinds for it for different benefits and rolling to know and decide what’s best for you.

WHEREVER: SOMEWHERE, EVERYWHERE, ANYWHERE A flexible bicycle you can have everywhere with its smaller wheels? Then, the literal meaning of the title is the folding bicycle which is the epitome for those travelers and/or commuters riding on the bicycles wherever it is, may it be to the plane or boat, or on the train and bus. Moreover, it comes in handy for those living in small places and folks who do not have a safe place to park their bicycle.

The folding bikes’ small wheels make it slightly less efficient and trickier than the standard bikes given earlier, nonetheless, those fans of this type of bike feel the benefits outweigh the not.

BEYOND THE MIDGETS’ CROSS “Small but terrible”: As cliché as it may sound with this line, still, it is true that the BMX or the Bicycle Moto Cross with a single gear ratio plus a freewheel and wider, treaded tires, are not just popular with kids even with just their smaller frames and wheels, but they are also used, may it be children or adults, for various styles of trick, racing on dirt BMX tracks, and stunt riding.

As every bike has its unique features and strengths, it still depends too on how the rider will handle, roll the wheels, and ride on it. Besides, as this cycling and cyclist-trend might pass, but the bike will never be as it functions essentially on how humans strive and stride on these days. In every single ride, it can make a huge stride.

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Sports Editor: Daniel Louis Y. Mallari dlymallari@gmail.com

An Athlete’s Adventure beyon Collegiate Walls

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By Jevelyn L. Julao | Artwork by Jerwin F. Bangeles

he motion of time constantly remains.

As everyone hits the road, a variety of skills were brought to light to maximize their full potential and uphold the glory given unto them. In the The motion of time constantly remains. As everyone hits the road, a variety of skills were brought to light to maximize their full potential and uphold the glory given unto them.

In the realm of athleticism, the Honorian breeds exhibited top-notch performances in their respective battleground and brought pride under the banner of Don Honorio Ventura State University. Yet, one’s collegiate years eventually find their end.

The Victors’ Breakthrough A game set on different battlefields piques the curiosity of the topnotch Honorians to adapt and learn in a challenging environment with experienced-packed players. Skills have been acquired through perceptive critical thinking, excellent techniques, brilliant strategies, as well as burning passion ablaze with the enthusiasm to seize numerous triumphs.

Aaron Danan, Kathleen Gagan, and Justine Raymundo were some of the competent participants who exhibited a remarkable performance of athleticism in their studentathlete years. They are one of the powerhouse breeds of Honorian who exhibited empathic performance and domination in their battleground in Sepak Takraw, Taekwondo, and Chess, respectively—from school intramurals to the State Universities and Colleges III (SUCIII) Olympics.

The core players individually honed durable stamina, solid strength, and an unwavering mindset from scratch until the endgame.

Broadening the Corners of an Athlete: Renewed matches The turning point has arrived to alter the opponents and warzone of where and who will they compete. Their location has been broadened and so does their experiences to attain a victorious feat beyond the coming out of a licensed engineer and a great parent of a healthy family.

Danan, a Sepak Takraw ace spiker and a SUC-III silver medallist, turns out to be a father to his two daughters. He and his family flew over to Canada to live peacefully. He occasionally looks back to where he was

before: precious teammates and indelible memories. Nonetheless, it is undeniable that his entire routine shifted at a sky-high rate as if his life went over a cartwheel spike—his score-drawer move in which he does a backflip to add force in kicking the ball. “’Yung lesson na nadala ko at dadalhin ko habang buhay, being an athlete dapat lumaban lang kahit anong hirap ng hamon sa buhay. Magtiwala sa sarili at hindi lahat ng pagkakataon ay nananalo, minsan kailangan din tumanggap ng pagkatalo at maging masaya basta naibigay ang best mo, dahil ‘yon ang dadalhin mo para lumakas lalo,” Danan

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nd the shared for every athlete who persistently pave their own way.

Gagan, a Taekwondo athlete and SUC-III gold medallist, mentioned her life after graduating college as “stressed but blessed”.

Encountering a variety of competitions molded her character as an individual. If given a chance to fight again, she would not certainly refuse. Still, Taekwondo remained as her leisure and escape way when confronting dilemmas. Nevertheless, one will surely still trade block and blows against the graduate life. Problems—doubts, financial crisis, regrets, and other more—still arise but as her champion perspective says, “Just believe in yourself. Dahil kahit wala ng naniniwala sa kakayahan mo, alam mo sa sarili mo na kaya mo at kakayanin mo.”

Raymundo, a chess player and SUC-III competitor, is currently mustering her courage for a favorable result on the board exam to be a licensed engineer. Complex setbacks occurred while she was still an athlete which transformed her metamorphoses from being a reserved girl to an empowered woman.

Viewing life as her war on a board, committing a blunder can be fatal to one’s pursuit of anything. Thus, she fully realizes a mind-set which translates, “Pinag iisipan ko talaga bawat desisyon sa buhay. Sa chess kasi gano’n, you really have to think the best strategy before you move.”

Unfazed by the cruel reality of life, the graduated athletes who once became a pride of DHVSU took their separate battles – utilizing their experiences whilst attaining enlightenment amidst tension and adversity.

With a new life where they are assisted by different teammates and coaches, they move forward even if at times they must take the battles on their own. Now, the button is pressed to start a single-player journey where they must find their path and comrades to challenge their destiny and fate. Surely, who and what they are now is not their end-game form.

Honorian Athletes.... from page 40 | for a State Universities and Colleges Athletics Association meet—stated that she was used to the abovementioned situations. “I am glad that I am able to adjust and accumulate,” Blancada said in relief.

Meanwhile, the table tennis spinner Cristina Limpin shared, “I started trying new hobbies like biking, reading, cooking, and watching.”

Needless to say, the circumstances brought about adverse effects to society and the people living in it in drastic ways, but this did not prevent Honorian athletes from making the most out of it within the four walls of the room.

More to this, John Rheynan Bornilla, a chess player of the Senior High department, expressed his new profound interest in anime and Chinese drama (C-drama), to which many can relate.

In terms of their sports, the Honorian athletes revealed that they still play in their respective fields. Blancada and Bornilla utilize online chess games to continue honing their skills amidst the pandemic.

On the other hand, Limpin expounded her situation as a table tennis player, “Yes, but not often, because sports centers are closed and I don't own a table to play my main sport.”

Blancada revealed later on that she feels sad and fearful about the new set-up. “We do not know when everything will be back from what it used to be”, she said. Instead of playing their sports, particularly outdoor activities, they choose to stay within the safe premises.

But while chess players such as Blancada and Bornilla can still play their sport freely with no worry, Bornilla vented that they still desire to play in the former set-up because there, they can communicate with their playmates verbally.

“I felt lost,” Limpin exclaimed. “It's sad to

stop doing the things that you usually do.”

“Playing sports really helped me with my mental and physical health. It also helped me to connect and build solid friendships. The new set-up deprived us of this. We're all stuck at home in front of our gadgets and it made me struggle to accept the changes that happened. But I know that I have to adapt to these changes. That’s why I started to find a new way to connect to other people and to find new things that will help me to find myself again.” Limpin added.

Yet, they show that the flames of the Honorian spirit are still ablaze. Despite the circumstances that surround them these athletes see them as opportunities to expand their horizons, notwithstanding the adversities.

“This set-up made my spirit down, but it also taught me to cherish every second of my life— even the times when I'm feeling sad because of losing or when I'm too exhausted for training. I decided that being able to experience these things are the best moments of my life,” Limpin further expressed.

Once, the two-time NBA champion Paul Gasol said, “Athletes are role models in society”, and our Honorian athletes serve as proof of that.

While people anxiously anticipate the long-awaited return of sports, its symbolic meaning to the sportsmen of the university never fails to persevere during these trying times. It's as if sports have taught them the a great tactic to battle hardships — grit. The plain old game they play and the rules they abide with as they perform their passion consequently built their hardworking spirit while playing and living a life.

Truly, sports is now more than entertainment and an escape from the harsh reality that we have today. It has become a platform for change.

HONORIAN ATHLETES OF 2021

IS THE FIRE STILL BURNING?

by Klarence Layug | Artwork by Eddie Marie Talen

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ollowing the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country, the sports industry has been limited due to the strict implementation of health and safety protocols. It has precisely been over a year, but still, we witness the Filipino athletes pushing themselves to the limits and aiming for triumph as seen in the recently held Tokyo Olympics 2021, in which Hidilyn Diaz, Carlo Paalam, Nesthy Petecio, and Eumir Felix Marcial

brought honor to the Philippines. In light of these national sportsmen’s endeavors, it’s about time we heard from our very own players.v Barangay leagues and regional and national competitions have long been restricted in the new normal. This left athletes with no option but to either play their sports at home or find a completely different hobby to entertain themselves with.

“This pandemic has affected us but it has

advantages and disadvantages,” Jhomarie Blancada revealed, an Intramurals chess player.

“In my case, I'm fine with it because I have a lot of time to do the things I want to do like journaling and sewing. Aside from studying during our online classes and helping with household chores, I am watching and reading books related to my course in my free time.”

Moreover, the yet-to-bloom woodpusher Blancada—who still eyes the ticket | to page 39