February Issue 8 - A.Y. 2013-2014

VOLUME XXXVII • ISSUE 8 • February 2014 • 8 PAGES

ACTOR TO LEADER: Political science major Anfernee Ruanto caps SC Presidency race claiming LLL fifth president-elect.

Liberal tops presidential race Lakas Lapiang Liberal ng Letran (LLL) presidential candidate Anfernee Ruanto reigned supreme in the recently concluded Letran Student Council (LSC) elections for academic year 2014-2015.

Political Science junior Ruanto garnered 1,212 votes to stomp incumbent Senate Minority Floor Leader and Legal Management Senator Gil Paulo Gomez of the Aksyon Alyansa Letranista (AAL), who only acquired 836 votes.

Ruanto assured his fellow Letranites during the four-day campaign that he can lead the LSC and get the job done right despite running with minimal experience under his belt. He also pledged to bring in innovation to the programs initiated by the 2013-2014 LSC, which is also led by LLL stalwarts, President Ann Beatriz Aldaba and Vice President and Senate President Rey Victor Torres.

Ruanto said: “We asked for their votes during the

Letran, Ad Foundation mount Adspeak 2014

Angelica Domingo, Ralphe Lawrenze Alarcon Colegio de San Juan de Letran and the Advertising Foundation of the Philippines (AFP) continued supporting values advertising through AdSpeak ’14 which was attended by various schools in Luzon to promote creative and valuable advocacies and campaigns in advertisements at the St. Vincent Liem Dela Paz auditorium on February 14.

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) Dean Prof. Rowena Capulong-

Reyes in her opening remarks, said: “Advertising’s basic function is to sell goods and services. It also has the power to convince people, what to do and what to believe. With such great influence comes great responsibility [and that is] to educate and engage to values formation in advertising.”

AFP Executive Director Linda Gamboa also attended the event. “Yung Letran, Ad Foundation PAGE 3

RATED A PLUS: AP BANA AND GAMBOA SHOWS SMILE IN FRONT OF HUNDREDS OF PARTICIPANTS OF ADSPEAK’14 |PHOTO FROM ALLEN TAROZA

Kim Daniel Rubinos elections and it is just fair to expect a lot from us. We promise to be hardworking.

We will do our level best to fulfill our promise.”

Meanwhile, incumbent Public Relations Officer (PRO) Laiza Joy Delos Reyes of LLL was elected as the 2014-2015 Vice President as she snatched 1,226 votes, better than the 788 votes of counterpart Jerica Loise Orosco of AAL. Delos Reyes will also serve as the next Senate President.

Jose Diego Dela Cruz of

ALL is the secretary-elect as he toppled LLL candidate Charles Daniel Valeriano with a close margin of 63 votes.

Jemuelee Caumeron of AAL was elected the new Deputy Secretary, as she was victorious over incumbent Hotel and Restaurant Management senator Mia Angeli Manalo of LLL. Pamela Denise Ramos of LLL was announced as the 2014-2015 Treasurer.

Jefferson Geronimo (AAL) succeeded in the race to be

the next Auditor surpassing LLL’s Marianne Elaine De Castro.

Patrick Riel Reyes of AAL enjoyed his instant installation to the 2014-2015 Executive Committee being the lone candidate for PRO. The AY 2014-2015 marks the third straight year that a presidential candidate from the LLL was elected to lead the LSC following William Barry Codera in 20122013 and the incumbent

Liberal PAGE 2

Poll turnout dismays Comelec chair

Ralphe Lawrenze M. Alarcon “Last year’s system, Colegio de San Juan de Letran’s Commission on name of candidate lang and Election (Comelec) chair- political party lang ang naman Patrick Joseph Ret kikita [sa interface ng moniDelansig was dissatisfied tor],” Delansig said, adding: with this year’s lower Le- “Nag-improve na lang [ang tran Student Council (LSC) system] for this year.”

Delansig also added election turnout, with only 55% of the student that individual ballots can population participating be printed out from the sysin the polls. This is despite tem so that a manual countthe automated poll’s sec- ing system can be done if ond year implementation. there were possible compliThe elections were held at cations in the poll results.

“This time with the rethe Computer Lab on February 18, with 36 comput- quest ng mga students, nilagyan na ng picture ng candier units in use.

date and ng nicknames,” he added.

Even though the system was created and developed for free, the Information Technology (IT) senior said that the turnout was lower than last year’s 67%. Delansig owed the turnout to several factors.

“Marami kasing walang pasok. Tuesday [kasi] naganap ang elections. Per the revised election code [of Letran], elections should be poll turnout PAGE 2

Japanese universities to establish links with Letran, UST Ralphe Lawrenze M. Alarcon

Dr. Kenji Shiba of Kansai University initiated a possible tie-up with Colegio de San Juan de Letran and University of Santo Tomas after visiting the Colegio from February 17 to 21.

According to Physical Education Area Chair Asst.

Prof. Randy Lero, whom Shiba contacted for a visit in the Philippines, the Japanese-based professor

eyed Philippine universities offering Accountancy programs with high passing rates in the Certified Public Accountant board exam such as University of Santo Tomas and De La Salle University–Manila.

Meanwhile, according to Office of Cultural Affairs Director Edna Marco, the linkage is expected to be with the universities where

Shiba is affiliated namely Kansai and Kyoto Universities after visiting the two big universities in the Philippines.

“Nagulat [siya] dito sa Pilipinas bakit napakalakas [ng Accountancy program],” Marco said, adding: “[He] got also strategies from us here para matuto sila at Japanese PAGE 3

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NEWS

VOLUME NO. XXXVII • ISSUE 8

PolSci tops Letramind Jamie Rosseditt P. Garcesa

Politcal Science (PolSci) students grabbed the gold in the recently held LetraMind finals on March 7, overpowering 14 other teams in the competition.

The PolSci team was composed of Takahiro Tateno, Paulo Domingo, Charles Valeriano, Laurisse Marie Perianes, and Edward Echavez.

Asst. Prof Gene Atanacio headed the winning team to championship as coach.

In the Eliminations, which was held on March 6, the PolSci team only placed second, trailing three questions behind the Engineering team that dominated the round.

There were 90 questions in the Eliminations, which were grouped into nine categories. The Engineering team ruled four out of the nine categories, which were all in the field of Mathematics, while the PolSci team mastered Life Sciences, Physical Science, Modern Culture, Political Science and Business.

Only eight of the 14 teams were able to advance into the semi-finals. As the top four teams had their places secured in the further parts of the semi-finals, the bottom four battled for their place.

The Accountancy and Hospitality Management teams were the first to be eliminated from the semifinals. By the end of the round, the Operations Management and Information Technology teams also fell from the competition, leaving the PolSci, Engineering,

Poll turnout

FROM PAGE 1 held on the third Tuesday of February,” he said.

Meanwhile, the system was also made possible through Sebastien Paolo Zapanta and Emmanual Enriquez, both IT seniors.

Chair’s request “Dapat ginamit ng bawat Letranista yung karapatan nila mag-vote [sa] susunod na student leaders kasi para sa lahat naman yun, para lang di puro reklamo na wala naman ginagawa. Kaya [siguro] sa [Facebook Page] Letran Secret Files na lang nila dinadaan mga hinaing nila,” he said, adding: “Masabihan man [ang Comelec] mahigpit bilang kami ang Comelec, we are just doing our part.”

Delansig also admitted that the Comelec expected a higher turnout since they assumed that Letranites know the current status of the LSC. “Somehow, [nakakadisappoint ang turnout results], personally, kasi part

Legal Management and Psychology teams in the Finals.

The Engineering team managed an early lead in the Finals, while the other three teams trailed three questions behind at minimum. Nevertheless, after answering three consecutive questions, the PolSci team outshone the Engineering team, taking the lead. And further into the Finals, the Legal Management team had forced a tie with the Engineering team for second runner-up.

The draw was broken through a Whiteboard Challenge, wherein the two teams were asked to enumerate the Forbes 50 Most Powerful Women of 2013.

The Legal Management team enumerated three correct persons, while the Engineering only gave two, therefor concluding the competition with the Legal Management team garnering second place, while the Engineering team won third.

The Political Science team’s victory had brought the LetraMind championship to the College of Liberal Arts and Science for the first time since the event’s culmination in 2012.

“I had doubts at first because I knew that only the brightest are qualified to join or win but I trusted my team and it thought me an important lesson [and that is to] never doubt yourself. Just believe and God will do the rest,” PolSci freshman and PolSci team member Valeriano said.

CHAIR’S REQUEST: Delansig admits disappontment in recent SC elections |PHOTO FROM Delansig’s fb account

din ako ng Comelec last year,” he said. “Well [this year’s] turn-out is still a majority,” he furthered.

Student’s feedback “Hindi naman maiiwasan na masira yung machine, so better na siguro yung old system of voting,” said Marketing Management junior Mai Catapang.

“Hindi [rin] po gaano [publicized ang election].”

On the other hand, senior Psychology student Gian Hitalia said: “Akala ko kasi kapag graduating na hindi na boboto [kaya di ako bumoto]. Irregular [student] kasi ako e, pero kahit isa wala ako natyempuhan [na nag-campaign]. Nagulat ako tapos na [rin] pala botohan.

iCOMM seniors present studies in national convention Ralphe Lawrenze M. Alarcon

Communication Arts seniors Kris Anne Jansen Ramos and Kriselle Paladin and Journalism seniors Rosa Maria Baclao and Ilaya Mae De Guzman presented their studies at the 3rd National Communication Research Conference (NCRC) which was held at the College of Mass Communication, University of the Philippines (UP) – Diliman on February 7 and 8.

With the theme “Communicating Risk,” this year’s NCRC featured paper presentations and post-conference workshops for educators. The NCRC also held a poster presentation on best practices in disaster management and lectures on disaster reporting.

Paladin and Ramos’s paper, which was also presented in Malaysia, is titled “Meron o Wala: A study in the usefulness of Twitter during typhoon as perceived by students of selected Intramuros-based schools” and was categorized under Social Media.

De Guzman and Baclao’s paper, however, was considered under Print Me-

Letran, ad foundation FROM PAGE 1

ADVERGURU SAYS: iCOMM guru Ricky Gonzales noted that what you post on social networking sites is the value you promote | PHOTO BY ALLEN TAROZA

grant na ibinibigay namin sa AdSpeak nadagdagan yan at dadagdagan pa. Only AdSpeak is a free seminar and lecture [on values advertising] that is the reason why Ad Foundation is here,” she said.

Aiming an ‘A+’ rated AdSpeak, the event was attended by advertising top guns and gurus which includes Ronald Barreiro, General Manager of DM9 Jayme Syfu; Cirio Cinco, CEO and Creative Director of DNA 720; Meggy de Guzman, Creative Director of Leo Bur-

FUTURE RESEARCHERS: Participants from the annual NCRC listens attentively to speakers which includes Secretary Herminio ‘Sonny’ B. Coloma, Jr. | PHOTO from National Communication Research Conference facebook account

dia with the title “Coverage of environmental issues in the Philippines: An analysis of top three broadsheets.”

“As one of the pioneer researchers to conduct such kind of study, our paper is interesting and detailed, we’ve presented new facts and things that readers and future researchers must take note of,” said De Guzman.

“It was a combination of excitement and nervousness even at the time we knew that we would present at UP until the day itself,” De Guzman added. “[As of this time] we are eager to pursue this paper but for some personal schedules, this

nett Manila; Ricky Gonzales, Creative Partner of Over the Moon Communications; and Greg Martin, Creative Director of Ace Saatchi and Saatchi.

“It’s [AdSpeak] wonderful. I love how professional [the organizers are],” said Martin in an interview with The LANCE. “I just hope it [AdSpeak] gets better.

Meanwhile AdSpeak also gave out Values Advertising Awards, Students’ Choice Awards and Online Choice Awards to the Best Public Service Announcements (PSA) produced for the print, radio, TV, campaign, and digital categories.

The winners for Values Advertising Awards are: “Like!” by Colegio San Agustin–Binan for TV; “Panatang Kahirapan” by Adamson University (AU) for Radio; “Cut More, Live Less” by DLSU Lipa for Print; “Dear Family”

by University of Santo Tomas for Campaign; and “Bawas Bisyo Bill” by University of the Philippines-Diliman (UPD) for Digital.

Furthermore, the winners for the Students’ Choice Awards are: “Junk Ball” by AU for TV; RADIO: “Bahay Bahayan” by AU for Radio; “FREE ducation” by AU for Print; “Disconnect to Con-

might take time.”

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Dean Prof.

Rowena Capulong-Reyes served as thesis adviser to Paladin and Ramos while Institute of Communication (iCOMM) faculty member Inst. Carlo Miguel Alfonso Francia was Baclao and De Guzman’s.

According to a Commission on Higher Education Memorandum dated November 28, 2013, the conference aims to promote awareness on the importance of research, in accordance with Republic Act 722, also known as the Higher Education Act of 1994.

nect” by AU for Campaign; and “Bawas Bisyo Bill” by UPD for Digital.

Finally, the winners for the Online Choice Awards are: “Like” by AU for TV; “Bahay Bahayan” by AU for Radio; “Fragility” by AU for Print; “Wireless Connection” by AU for Campaign; and “No to Black Sand Mining” by Colegio de San Juan de Letran for Digital.

AdSpeak goes global A day before the actual event, Ace Saatchi and Saatchi–Asia Pacific published Martin’s thoughts on AdSpeak 2014 in its website.

Martin, who admitted that he still has the pressure in speaking in public, said that this year’s convention would be fitted to talk about the ‘Lovemark status’ in advertising.

He also said: “I would say, hit the ground running. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes.

You are a product of NOW. You are a generation that grew up with technology that didn’t even exist when I was young.”

Adspeak 2014 was sponsored by Enervon Multivitamins, ABS-CBN, Cherry Mobile, Hawk Bags, Nestle Fitnesse, Unilever, Greenwich, Shopforfree, Philippine Star, Icon Manila and adobo Magazine.

NEWS

February 2014 • 12 pages

Letran Student Council 2014 - 2015 Elections

Tally of Votes

President Gomez, Gil Paulo B. 836 Ruanto, Anfernee P. 1212 Abstain 116 Vice President Orosco, Jerica Loise P. 788 Delos Reyes, Laiza Joy G. 1226 Abstain 151 Secretary Dela Cruz, Jose Diego R. 783 Valeriano, Charles Daniel B. 720 Abstain 106 Deputy Secretary Caumeron, Jemuelee S. 1306 Manalo, Mia Angeli B. 651 Abstain 208 Treasurer Lo, Majelyn S. 868 Ramos, Pamela Denise A. 1037 Abstain 260 Auditor Geronimo, Jefferson P. 1180 De Castro, Marianne Elaine 826 Abstain 159 PRO Reyes, Patrick Riel S. 1643 Abstain 427 Senators Accountancy Padua, Axel Rainer 108 Abstain 0 Entreprenuership Fortuno, Johnwell Malagpo 50 Eugenio, Mica Ela 19 Abstain 0 F. Management Santiago, Paolo Gabriel 137 Estacio, Maria Nicole 91 Abstain 0 Food Tech.

Gomez, Paola Anne 30 De Silva, Jerus Christian 1 Abstain 0 HM/HRM Dela Roma, Genesis 38 Santos, Trixie Louisse 47 Abstain 0 Marketing Billones, Clecia Jari 64 Austria, Irish Angela 111 Abstain 0

Liberal FROM PAGE 1

Aldaba. Meanwhile, it is also the fifth time that the presidential candidate LLL won the presidential office.

Senate Majority Due to the changes in the number of seats in the LSC Senate, only 20 representatives were elected for the A.Y. 2014-2015 council. The Education program representatives were reduced to one instead of two from the program’s major Mathematics and English, while the Economics senate seat was removed as the program was eliminated

Nutrition Sarmiento, Jenny Anne 20 Abstain 0 O. Management Esleigue, Robbie Eirell 45 Abstain 0 T. Management Siochi, Godfrey Lemuel 40 Ocampo, Paola Jean 46 Abstain 0 Advertising Quilantang, Romeo Jr. 116 Abstain 0 Broadcasting Espanol, Frances Xaviera 28 Abstain 0 Communication Patapat, Rogielou 90 Marcellana, Samantha 84 Abstain 0 Journalism Fusana, Alain Delon 33 Abstain 0 L. Management Meer, Ruzzel Cassandra 39 Morao, Angelica 22 Abstain 0 Political Science Manongsong, Vince Arvin 16 Del Monte, Jan Enrique 21 Abstain 0 Psychology Rabe, Angelo Nino 81 Picar, Justine 95 Abstain 0 Engineering Garcia, Kenneth Patrick T. 33 Subaan, Mary Crizelle V. 27 Caringal 71 Abstain 0 Digital Arts David, John Paolo G. 39 Abstain 0 Education Drequito, Aira Shayne 16 Abstain 0 Information Technology Montero, Clodd Yvonne 137 Carandang, Carmela Geraldine 85 Abstain 0

from the Colegio’s program offerings.

Out of the 20 seats in the LSC Senate, the AAL got hold of 12, while the LLL only has six.

Two independent candidates, Aira Shayne Drequito (Education) and Cedrick Caringal (Engineering), tested their luck in the 2014 elections and were both victorious in their campaigns.

Furthermore, as lone candidates for their respective programs, Romeo Quilantang, Jr. (Advertising), Frances Xaviera Espanol (Broadcasting), John Paolo David (Digital Arts), Alain Delon Fusana

(Journalism), Jenny Anne Sarmiento (Nutrition and Diatetics) and Robbie Eirell Esleigue (Operations Management) were elected as senators.

The rest of the LSC senate are: Rogielou Patapat (Communication), Johnwell Magalpo Fortuno (Entrepreneurship), Paolo Gabriel Santiago (Financial Management), Paola Anne Gomez (Food Technology), Trixie Louisse Santos (Hospitality Management/Hotel and Restaurant Management), Clodd Yvonne Montero (Information Technology), Ruzzel Cassandra Meer (Legal Management), Irish Angela

Japanese FROM PAGE 1

FRIEND FROM JAPAN: Mrs. Lilia Shiba and AP Randy Lero vists Letran Bataan | PHOTO FROM DEAN ROWENA REYES’ FACEBOOK ACCOUNT

pwede rin nila ma-apply doon sa Japan. Parang it’s a brainstorm.”

Shiba, who is also Le-

3

tran’s direct contact to the Kawachinagano Friendship Association (KIFA) being the organization’s Vice-President, also visited Divisoria, Intramuros, and Subic, and dined in Filipino restaurants to experience Filipino culture for a couple of days.

Lero, on the other hand, said that the planning started September 2013 before an itinerary was planned with Marco and Vice President for Academic Affairs Rev. Fr. Juan Ponce, O.P. International organization KIFA aims to create international relations to promote friendship and world peace.

PHOTO FROM LETRAN OFFICIAL FACEBOOK ACCOUNT

Austria (Marketing Management), Jan Enrique Del Monte (Political Science), Justine Picar (Psychology) and Paola Jean Ocampo (Tourism Management).

The 2014 LSC elections generated an overall 57% voters’ turnout, down from the 2013 elections record of 66%.

Presidential stand While both are one in goal of bringing better service to the Letran Community, each one introduced contrasting platforms of government.

The LLL’s main shoutout is that the LSC system need not to be changed. According to Ruanto, what the LSC needs are innovation; change is not needed.

“Kapag lagi mong binabago, lalo kang walang matatapos,” Ruanto said in his speech.

On the other hand, AAL presidential candidate Gomez said that change should be brought to the current system, and that it needs new ways to continue what have been started.

“Kapag ang isang bagay ay hindi binago, mas lalong hindi makikita ang tunay na progreso,” he said.

Hosted by Mr. August Serra, the yearly presidential debate was held at the Quezon Garden last February 17. Twitter hashtag #AskLSC was used for questions to the presidential aspirants.

Automated elections In its second straight year, the LSC elections utilized an automated process, held at the Computer Laboratory 2.

According to Letran COMELEC chairman Patrick Delansing, the system posted a hitch in the voting process for the Psychology senator but it was eventually fixed. Nonetheless, a manual balloting system was used for the votes because of a glitch, which was not repaired.

The 2014 LSC elections generated different reactions from the students who voted. “Ayos naman. The software [used] this year was better-looking than [that of] last year. It was a great experience,” said Lian Del Prado, a sophomore Financial Management student.

Second year student Aaron Arjinal exclaimed, “Maayos naman yung botohan ngayon. But still, di pa din siya smooth. There is still room for improvement.

I am looking forward for smoother and better elections for the years to come” Jan Pauline Chavez, a first time voter, said, “The election process was organized. It [was] made easy. Though there are some faults in the system [wherein] other courses [programs] had difficulty in voting for some positions.

Pero overall okay naman, nasolusyunan naman ‘yon.”s

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OPINION

VOLUME NO. XXXVII • ISSUE 8

Editorial

MODERN WOMEN In the earlier years, women were regarded as inferior to men. They weren’t entitled to education and were meant to stay at home.

They were treated as if their sole purpose in life was nothing more but to nurture, educate their children, and take care of their husbands.

Women were nothing more but subordinates to men. However, nowadays, women are more critical and are more self-aware of their role in the society—thanks to women empowerment programs and feminists all around the world who have contributed to the modernized perception of women. They are now regarded as competitive and able individuals that shouldn’t be hold in closure, for like men; they are gifted with limitless potential.

For years, women have been subdued due to wrong notions. For so long, they’ve been confined in a hearth when they could be serving the interests of a greater number of people. As changes in civilization advance, more and more women are now venturing into formerly maledominated careers, such as politics, legislation, and even athletics.

Change is good for it emancipated women from stereotyping. It has opened new opportunities for discovery and growth thus giving birth to their new definition; assertive, strong and independent. It has been the content of gender debates, that the more publicity the media gives to women empowerment, the more men are pressured to reinstate their role in the society.

We should remember that the only being above us is God. No sex is greater than the other.

The idea of superiority and inferiority only gives a breeding ground for contempt. We are all created equal. Therefore, instead of competing with one another, we should work hand in hand towards helping each other to attain a more progressive society.

Like what Maya Angelou said: “We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.”

Ralphe Lawrenze Alarcon Editor-in-Chief Diane Marie Reyes Managing Editor Ina Mae Peñafuerte Lianne Dominique Hidalgo Rea Antonette Gierran Sports Editor News Editor Acting Features Editor Ma. Teresita Distor Design Editor

Jan Joseph Mascot Famanila Photo Editor

Marjorie Malabad, Adrian Masacupan, Kim Daniel Rubinos, Kevin Louise Valdez Staff Ralph Ronald Baniqued, Mavelle Durian, Patricia Flores, Marita Karina Gerardino, Rio Jane Legaspi, Camille Ramos, Marilie Tubalinal, Rachelle Annewor Yumol Contributors Normee Claire Noelle Agatep, Silvestre Frando, Jr., Dwight Labilles, Danielle Nenette Soldevilla, Allen Tarroza Photographers Christelle Ann Cala Cartoonist

Carlo Miguel Alfonso Francia Adviser

Published monthly, The LANCE has its editorial staff at 3F Student Center Building, Colegio de San Juan de Letran, Intramuros, Manila.

For comments, suggestions, and contributions, email us at letran.thelance@gmail.com

version 2.0 Ralphe Lawrenze Alarcon @pinasaralphe eic.thelance@gmail.com

Rest like a kid Generally, people define stress as a feeling of disturbance when the circumstances do not side in our favor. Pressures, deadlines, the words we hear, and the actions we see, seem to be the sources of stress that we need to devour.

What causes stress is called a stressor which is either an agent or stimulus.

According to medicalnewstoday.com, the following are the possible causes of stress: noises, unpleasant people, a speeding car, or even going out on a first date. Also, the article stated that these stressors are generally the sources of stress, but not always.

Stressors have always been there. Stress, as always, has been easily triggered.

With such stress, experiencing high blood pressure, rapid breathing, uneasy breathing and digestion, tenser muscles, and ‘alertness’ during sleep are the effects of stress.

Smell the flowers and blow the candles

The routine demands you to lie down on the floor, place your head where it is relaxed, inhale and exhale until you feel that the stress you incurred throughout the day has been released. This exercise was taught during our Radio and Television Performance course under College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Dean Prof. Rowena Capulong–Reyes.

The practice also tells us to understand that breathing can be utilized, in any situation, to feel more calm and more at eased.

Honestly, most of the times, I don’t think I get it right because an hour or two, I feel that I am tense again because of a loaded schedule and a number of deadlines which I usually cram a week before or sometimes the day before the submission date.

I know that this kind of situation does not differ among other students under any program who choose to enjoy some unimportant matters first which, based on my experiences, is not advisable.

To those who made it without a single hassle, congratulations!

Not justified While being able to identify the sources of stress in student’s life, we cannot deny the fact that the school’s environment also helps us to in learning.

Accept it or not, the kind of learning we have is mostly traditional. Teachers talking in front of the class, asking a lot of questions, and giving papers to answer are just examples of daily encounters that students cannot escape to do. This is how we are trained and this is how we are made to be tough professionals.

Ironic, with the hardhitting deadlines and eager professors, there is still a place for our eyes to be distracted.

While in class, a classmate said that a scratch on the board or a broken chair tells us that what we pay is not justified. However, he furthered, it is our duty to cope with the following situation because once and for all, even the learning environment helps us to be better students, it is only ourselves who give us a chance to be better individuals.

But once in a while, have fun like there are no deadlines to beat; sleep like no one demands you so much time for course requirements, and rest like a kid—once in a while.

OPINION

February 2014 • 12 pages

blank verses Diane Marie Reyes @thedianereyes onewjeandia@gmail.com

Backfire We can be apologetic too.

The LANCE operates on a monthly basis. Based on the operational plan, we are to produce 10 issues every year and to release them on time.

Unfortunately, to date, we still have three more newsletters to run, and obviously we’ve lost track of time.

For the record, the only issues we have released promptly are June, July, and August and the rest, are all delayed two months or so.

It is such a shame for us to even criticize other people and organizations, if we can’t function the way we should be. Especially me, who barraged the ‘other’ office on how they manage to stay in silence for the past months and that we lost patience in waiting for them. I believe, most students lost faith in us, too.

Basically, an organi-

zation has an operational plan for the entire school year. For The LANCE, our views, our missions, our goals, and our projects we needed to reach are in there.

A timeframe is also fundamental so that it would be clear that on this particular month, the projects should be implemented. At first, of course, we were all excited to do our duties, to be the best, and we even promised to ourselves that we won’t do trash talking.

We can’t say that when we are chosen, we aren’t ready. Believe it or not, we are and we know that we have resources at our disposal; the same resources that editors from past editorial boards did not have.

Luckily, we have flash disks, best quality computers, and money to operate, unlike those editors who had to

three minutes or less Ina mae PeÑafuerte @inapenafuerte inapenafuerte@gmail.com

Flash Forward I was on my way home one morning when I rode a jeepney and sat across a couple of kids—a boy and a girl, around 9 or 10 years old. I know the boy; his family lives near our house. He doesn’t know me, though, so he didn’t pay me any attention.

We boarded the jeepney from the same loading point, so I’m sure they didn’t pay the fare for the ride. The driver did not mind, nonetheless.

The two would have looked cute as siblings despite their untidy appearance. Only, they were not brother and sister. I know who his brothers are. And I didn’t think they’re even related. I didn’t mean to, but I overheard their conversation during the ride and found out I was right.

The two talked about their plans, their dreams, their future and the like. It would have seemed like an ordinary conversation between kids their age, but the thing is, they were not just

talking about an ordinary future. They were talking about their future.

They were dreaming of living in a mansion, the girl being an actress and the boy a rock star, having their own car and many more. Nothing could have ever been worse, it seemed to me, but they were also talking about having their own children.

I wondered how kids their age could even think about having children when they have not even finished being one.

Then, I remembered his brothers.

The eldest is 21. We used to be friends when we were a bit younger, but our friendship did not last long. We just fell apart and figured we, too, had different interests. It could never work out. I was raised to be as close of being a good girl as I could be; he was a member of a fraternity.

Nonetheless, he tried to work for their family. He had sidelines and other stuff, but of course, it wasn’t enough.

bring the actual CPU to the printing press in order for them to produce issues, and yet they did—on time.

What we truly do not have are—and it came from a person we all look up to— dedication, commitment to responsibility, and the willingness of heart to do all these for the students. We failed them once, and we are failing them again.

Definitely we have taken these words for granted, but we can’t change what has been done, only to realize we could still have amends and have the last issues released including the Literary Folio.

I hope you will still bear with us until the release of our April issue. Until we lose track of time again. Until we can say sorry no more with our heads bowed down. But please let me say it for the nth and last that we are regretful.

Students, you might have some comments on this, and I do encourage you to step up and tell us too through a letter to the editor, or just an email would do because you are the most concerned body here, and again, you paid for these issues and we have an obligation towards you.

A year later, I learned he became a drug addict and sold drugs. He ruined his life and he’s now in prison for illegal drugs.

The second is 19. I used to know him, too, and was close to him than the eldest. He tried differing his life from his older brother’s.

I admired him for that. I thought he was mature for wanting to be different and doing something for his family.

It didn’t take long for him to disappoint us. When I got to college, he was still trying to continue high school. And not even making it to the middle of the school year, he already dropped out. Just months after, news broke that he had his girlfriend pregnant. They have the child but separated.

Next is 12. I saw him in a mall once. He was out with his friends. They were all familiar to me. I came across them on the escalator. I was on my way up and they were going down. I didn’t pay much attention to them, but I was surprised when I heard him say, “Hindi na ako nakakapagyosi. Bili naman tayo.” I was so shocked. He was so young yet he talked about smoking a cigarette.

Then, there’s this kid, only nine or 10, and already in a relationship. I couldn’t even call it real, but who knows where it could go? He’s supposed to be in

5

[k]night[s]peak Eddielyn M. Maghinay

ks

Let it go I am not a type of person who’ll spend an hour to post anything, share mushy things and tell everything about me. I am not being too conceited but I prepare to be as simply as I will be just plain weird I see every little thing too special, and if that’s the case I put special treatment to it through my privacy. With the rapid pace of modernization and in the field I have chosen, I have to deal with those things and be out in our so-called, ‘comfort zone.’

Still, I am passive. I never defend myself over the erroneous stuff. I never post something online just to feed the curiosity of the people around me. Just moving forward, I let the people conclude and say whatever they want to say.

I will never decide for temporary decision which I think, will affect the rest of my life. Just a blink, I don’t want to be into something I am not into.

I look weak but, I believe, I am one of the strongest creatures. I can face everything because I am never alone; I have true friends, my parents, my two sisters and Jesus Christ.

Just this year when Disney had shown the animated movie ‘Frozen,’ it was the first time in lieu of a man’s love to save the protagonist is the sister’s

love.

When my so-called stage mother, best friend, and sister Gwendilyn [Maghinay], had beaten me to be awaken by my boorish decisions and dealt with my drama anthology stories.

It was fortuitous because I don’t only have one but two ‘Elsas’ in my life. Love doesn’t only turn into sweet chocolates, hugs and kisses, romance and all mushiness. No need for calling Mr. Kupido and Mr. DJ for a request.

It can also be felt through your sister(s) or brother(s) love. It was one of the most special emotions that you can’t ever dream off. And so, I don’t need to fight back, ‘revenge’, be into clingy stuff or whatever it maybe because Jesus had given me my armor. God never let my hand and mouth to be tainted of worldly activities. I am not holy, but my God is holy and He is within me.

Imminently, I’ll be doing what He wants me to be. He can only judge us, not you and never you.

Better to put attention to your relationship with Jesus Christ than putting too much attention to others’ life.

This is my last vent out of God’s creation. I’ll just let it go.

Eddielyn Maghinay Letran Manila alumna.

She was also a former News Contributor of The LANCE The views and opinions written above do not reflect that of The LANCE’s.

We are inviting you, Letranites, to submit your articles about life and anything under the sun.

Send your articles to The LANCE office, third floor Student Center building or email them to letran.thelance@gmail.com

school and dreaming what he wants to be someday, but there he was, thinking life is just simple.

Last of the brothers is the five-year-old, the littlest, the youngest, the innocent. I see him sometimes, and he’s really cute. He had not gone to school yet, but I wish he will soon. He can be somebody. He can be different. He can light the future and give hope to his parents.

But I’ve got to admit that I made this story up.

Not all of it, though. Truth is, they are not really broth-

ers, but the first three boys I talked about are actual people I know, and those are their actual stories. The story of the two kids are just an exaggeration of today’s youth, but come to think of it, their picture can be a flash of the probable future.

Youths who are engaging in early relationships are getting younger and younger.

Nevertheless, look at the youngest child. He’s just five years old. He’s got a lot of potential and has Flash Forward PAGE 6

6

FEATURES

Faith

defeats fear

Fear consumes people.

Before the year of 2013 ended, the Philippines was hit by the most powerful tropical typhoon named Yolanda. Visayas region, particularly the city of Tacloban, was greatly affected by its rage.

Many people died, some were elderly and unfortunately, some are children.

Tacloban and other cities affected are still trying to recover from the disaster.

Recently, news about an infectious disease in Pangasinan known as the flesh-eating bacteria or Necrotizing Fasciitis shocked the Filipinos. According to the experts the disease is a serious bacterial infection that destroys body’s soft tissue.

It spreads rapidly and can decay the infected area.

There’s no cure for the disease as of now.

The news spread quickly and allowed people to give their opinions about the situation. Some referred the attack to one of the prophecies of a man named Prophet Sadhu Sundar Selvaraj. This speculation reopened the topic about the end of the world.

Some said that the news was a hoax. Hoax or not, still the news affected many of us. It brought fear in us, especially the people in the affected area.

We have our strengths and weaknesses. One of our great weaknesses is fear. Our experiences and things we have seen gave us more reason to have something to be afraid of.

But there’s one thing that can defeat that—faith.

Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.

Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. - Matthew 10:28 Once a man dies, his soul departs from his body. And it’s God’s decision whether the soul is worthy to enter His kingdom. Anyone who refuses to repent his sins is considered unworthy and will have his body and soul be destroyed in the lake of fire. It’s inevitable for a man to commit sins. But it’s a man’s responsibility to repent for every sin he has committed.

A man can harm his kind, but God is our creator. He granted us life thus; He’s the only One who can take it from us.

He is the only one who has the right to judge the living and the dead.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. - Psalm 23:4 In life, challenges are made to test us especially our faith in God. Sometimes, these challenges are tempting and may lead us to sins. But as long as we keep Him in our hearts, we will always be in the paths of righteousness. He’s our shepherd that will correct and guide us to the right path.

For God gave us not a spirit of fearfulness; but of power and love and discipline. - 2 Timothy 1:7 The spirit of fear is not from God. We should learn how to overcome it in order for us to use the gifts he gave us: the spirit of power, of courage to get through the struggles and dangers of life; the spirit of love that will help us to understand the ups and downs of life and of other people; and the spirit of a quietness of mind to deal with the hostility of the world.

So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can Man do to me?” - Hebrews 13:6 God is with us no matter what happens. His love is unconditional and it is our faith in Him that will bring us to the right path.

He’ll never abandon us even if we abandon Him. Filipinos have been through a lot of catastrophes. The damages left by typhoon Yolanda, emotionally and physically, still remain. And now, news about the infectious disease has spread around the nation. The world may end, but no one knows when except God. He is the creator and He is the only one who can take it back.

It’s true that fear can afflict one’s life, but there’s nothing it can do against God. Our faith with the Lord is our salvation.

VOLUME NO. XXXVII • ISSUE 8

p scoo e d i ins

Anfernee Ruanto

Nothing is permanent in this world. The birds and the bees, everyone including you, not even our student council—that’s why elections are held every year in Letran.

Coming from the Lakas Lapiang Liberal ng Letran (LLLL)—Anfernee Ruanto, a junior Political Science major, emerged as the next academic year’s Letran Student Council (LSC) head.

While he’s up, why don’t we get to know a little more about his winning formula in the LSC elections.

How he chose Letran Simplicity is one of Kuya Fernee’s major virtues in life.

His priorities only revolve around by simply studying and working. Whether cramming or not, he has no other option but to focus on his academics because first of all, money doesn’t grow on trees.

And because of the determination he possesses, he never fails to attend every subject.

His aspiration for catholic schools led him to San Sebastian College-Recoletos, San Beda College, and Colegio de San Juan De Letran.

An interesting fact for our “jewel-of-a-boy” is that his enrollment in Letran came from a fateful run; imagine an official enrollment in San Sebastian turned down over a smaller college: Letran.

Yes, he did. Did it turn out well? Exactly.

“Gusto ko [na] sa Letran kasi hindi ko lang feel na nasa paaralan lang ako, para rin akong may pinupuntahang pamilya. At dahil nasa malalayong lugar mga magulang ko, sa friends ko nararamdaman na may pamilya parin ako sa school,” he said.

Enrolling in Letran is one of the best choices and judging from his experience, Letran somehow made Kuya Fernee’s choice worth it. He even added an insight that studying and learning are two very different things.

As a student talking

Since we’re about

Kuya Fernee as a student, won’t we be eager to learn from him a vision or a picture of his future self? After all, we can’t be studying for fun, we’re studying to provide and accommodate a better living!

But for Kuya Fernee: “Mapag-aral ko lang mga kapatid ko at mapagawan ko lang ng bagong bahay magulang ko, pwede nako mamatay.

Lahat ng plano ko in the future ay para sa pamilya ko. If ever na nagkaroon pako ng isa pang pagkakataon pang mabuhay after that, e di incentive ko na rin yun.”

Now we know two sides of Anfernee Ruanto. Now would be the right time to tackle the perk that makes a “Fernee.”

He’s been partaking in theater organizations and has been studying theatrical arts 24/7 back in high school.

After being accepted in some prestigious acting organizations, he decided to tackle the premier theater group of his beloved Colegio: Teatro de Letran.

Due to another audition, he unexpectedly aced, he wasn’t so sure whether he should pursue or to withdraw.

“Ang Teatro [De Letran] ang pinaka naging core family ko [sa Letran], kahit pinagquiquit ako at sobrang attached na ako dito. Di man ako nababayaran pero pamilya na para saken ang [Teatro de Letran],” he said.

He believes acting is the sweetest yet hardest job.

Fulfillment in acting is different; in art and in satisfaction, therefore it felt great being an actor even though it wasn’t easy. Exhausting yet priceless.

He even recalled his first and best play as the only freshmen together with seniors where he really learned the labor and pressure in his role.

Ruanto said: “[Ang] teatro, para sa mga taong gustong hanapin ang kanilang sarili. [It] is a way to find what they’re really looking for. This is more of a family rather than an org.

Dito ka makakaramadam ng walang mas mataas at mas mababa sayo dahil dito ka matututo hindi lamang sa pag-iinarte kundi pati sa buhay.

As a leader Prior to Kuya Fernee’s sudden

By: Joshua Ortiz

participation and unexpected victory in the student council elections, he should be responsible for satisfying each and every student’s curiosity regarding his run.

So what exactly made Kuya Fernee run as LSC president?

Fact is, he used to have interests in partaking in student councils way back in his frosh years and was eventually taken over by his academics the following years.

However, due to his strong connections—namely everyone’s unexplainably intense faith in his capabilities, and after receiving an underestimating suggestion, Ruanto got pumped and was able to accommodate votes confidently along the way.

“Bakit ako nanalo? Hindi ko rin alam. Hindi ko alam kung san saan nanggaling yung thousands of votes ko eh. Hanggang ngayon, hindi parin nagsi-sink in na nanalo ako out of nowhere.

Nung umaga pa nga lang ng elections, suko na ako eh. Pero, challenge accepted na rin,” he said.

Now that he’s up next, what’s the first thing Kuya Fernee or with respect—President Ruanto?

“Ina-alam ko ang flaws ng mga nakaraang administration para di na maulit at tinatanong ko kung ano yung mga matitinding problems para maging prepared kami. Gusto ko kasi organized, student-centered at syempre para sa dapat sa ika-bubuti ng Letran. Para sa estudyante, para sa Colegio; simula sa basic needs ng students, secondary na yung mga programa, kailangan nage-empower sa mga Letranista.”

How will President Ruanto differ from the previous administration? Making a difference is not Kuya Fernee’s actual concern.

“Gusto ko lang ma-feel ng mga students ang Student Council. Gusto ko everytime, mararamdaman ng students na may student council arawaraw, at di lang dapat magiging follower ang mga students.

Dapat maging leaders din sila mismo—marunong mag-isip at may puso sa ginagawa—at di kami gagawa ng hierarchy na mas mataas kaming mga SC members kaysa sa student body mismo.”

He is not just diligent, but also strategic in life. Making him legit and fit for becoming the school’s president. People like him are considered a miracle, by miracle, it means he has the power to sustain himself a good life.

SPORTS

February 2014 • 12 pages

7

NCAA athletics: Letran stays in middle of pack Ralphe Lawrenze M. Alarcon

PROUD FATHER: Letran parades NCAA medialists in the recent NCAA track and field action | PHOTO FROM FR. VIC Despite an inspiring medal finish from former Letran runner Archand Bagsit in the recent South East Asian Games, Letran trackers underperformed in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) athletic championship at the La Salle Dasmariñas grounds in Cavite.

Jeffrey Fajiculay and Rouelo Cordova managed podium finishes with respective silver and bronze medals at the pole vault

event. Meanwhile, Cristobal Pacleb, Christian Valdenarro, Jeffrey Fajiculay and Rico Refio also placed third in the 4x400m relay.

“Noong last day at last event pinilit ko talaga manalo sa 4x400m relay kaya lang bronze lang nakuha namin,” Pacleb said, adding, “Siguro dahil kulang pa kami sa training, kasi kung gusto namin manalo siguro kailangan talaga mag focus sa training pero kailangan din balanse yung pag-aaral mo kasi yun ang mahalaga at kailangan ng bawat isa sa amin na magtulungan sa laban.” “[Ang motivation ko next season is] to recruit [players from] Palarong Pambansa, then magkaroon kami ng competition this coming May sa Philippine National Games,” said Letran Track and Field coach Gerry Atabay, adding, “[This is to motivate them to equal the record in the recently concluded NCAA track [and field] athletic competition to retain their athletic benefits.”

The Muralla-based squad only finished sixth out of ten competing teams in this NCAA season with only 186.5 points.

Meanwhile, Kalentong-based Jose Rizal University (JRU) clinched its 4th straight title with 965 points. Domingo Cabradilla of JRU was awarded as the Most Valuable Player after sitting out last season due to academic reasons.

SSC-R duo claims NC Beach Volley throne Ralphe Lawrenze M. Alarcon

Soltones and Berbano showed a skill-advantage and found their rhythm early in the first set giving only the Lady Chiefs 12 markers. However, Lady Chiefs managed to give the Rectobased duo a scare with their prized two point advantage in the second set.

The Lady Stags, however, showed dominance in the third set with SSC-R’s volley-

ball rookie Soltones showing a championship composure.

Hard-hitter Cebuana Soltones also bagged the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award.

This year’s beach volleyball champions also revealed that last year’s loss against the University of Perpetual Help System Dalta (UPHSD) in the finals gave them much motivation to work and communicate inside the court.

SSC-R bets also finished the tournament with a clean slate. Also, this season’s championship is also the team’s fourth after winning the crown in 2003,2008 and 2009.

Meanwhile, St. Benilde bets John Vic de Guzman and Marjun Alingasa defeated UPHSD’s JayR dela Cruz and Rey Taneo for the coveted title, 21-13, 21-17.

De Guzman was also named as the MVP.

they see their older brothers and sisters doing something, more or less, they will think it’s the right thing to do.

I saw this post online that when we were kids, sticking our tongue out was like giving someone the middle finger, but nowadays, I see kids as young as five or six giving away the actual thing.

I could go on with this, but I just want to say one thing: I know we’re still young. We want to enjoy life and live life to the fullest,

but sometimes we have to slow down and think about our actions.

This world, this life is not only ours. There are those after us who will live the way we did. And as we follow the ways of those we look up to, they, too, will follow the things we do.

Take a flash forward and take a peek. How do you want the future to look like? How do you want their future to look like? Think again, straighten up, pick-up after your mess, set up their path.

DEADLY DUO: SSC-R nicks fourth championship since regaining its firts beach volley title in 2003.

San Sebastian CollegeRecoletos (SSC-R) volleybelles Gretchell Soltones and Czarina Berbano ruled out the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) season 89 in a stellar performance against tournament host Arellano University in three sets 21-12, 19-21, 15-8 at the White Beach, Puerto Galera.

Flash Forward FROM PAGE 5

a big space for a bright future in his life. But look at his brothers, those who are older than him. Look at us.

We are the people the young ones are looking up to. We are their role models. We are examples. They will follow our footsteps.

Ever wondered why young children act the way they do? It’s because that is what they see around them. If

wordplay rea antonette gierran @reagierran antonette_gierran@yahoo.com

Don’t dare to compare Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2 Being yourself seems to be hard when you’re in a world where notions of ‘beauty,’ ‘success,’ and ‘happiness’ are being confined and restricted in such a way that their meaning and standard are strictly defined. But one must take courage for we are not born to conform to what the world tells us.

We should learn how to celebrate our uniqueness for it’s what makes us special. Love and accept all your imperfections because your projection of how you treat yourself will determine how people should treat you. Do not be surprised if other people do not see the good in you if you cannot appreciate yourself.

It’s hard not to fall into the trap of blending in, especially if being able to blend in automatically includes you into the ‘in’ crowd. It makes you feel accepted and good enough to belong to a group. But remember that the challenge we face in life is not about being accepted but conquering the fear of revealing your true self.

Being yourself means being confident of who you are. It’s all about accentuating all your positive qualities. We should never compare ourselves

How many points did Mark Cruz chip in during the National Colegiate Athletic Association Game 3?

The 5th person to send the right answer to eic.thelance@gmail.com. Gets the Mark Cruz signed special edition magazine.

with other people because comparison gives birth to insecurities.

It took me three years to realize the peril I’m getting myself into for constantly comparing myself with other people. I am always sad and aggravated because no matter how hard I try, there will always be someone who is better than me.

This defeated the purpose of having to exert effort, so what I did was to withdraw from engaging myself in activities in school. I thought, why bother when at the end of the day you’ll know you’re just second best? I was disinterested and detached with things.

Looking back, I cannot help but feel regretful of those years I have wasted, settling for mediocrity. It was a good thing I was able to overcome the wrong belief I’ve fell for.

I’ve never been so happy being able to reconcile with myself and believe that the true way towards happiness is being just plain grateful for being given the chance to experience life. Having a grateful heart guarantees a happy life. It gives birth to the habit of looking at the bright side of things.

Positivity changes the course of things. Always remember that it’s all about perspective. Now, when I look at the mirror, I see a happy, bright, imperfect yet contented woman, ready to face the challenges life would throw at my feet.

SPORTS

VOLUME XXXVII • ISSUE 8 • February 2014 • 8 PAGES

ILIPINO PRIDE: Archand Bagsit (in blue) champs among other South East Asian ames competitors in the recent biennial meet | PHOTO GRABBED FROM GMA NEWS

SEASON HOST, SEASON CHAMP: College of Saint Benilde Green Blazers claims its fourth championship since 1998.

Blazers shine brightest in NCAA’89 Ralphe Lawrenze M. Alarcon

The De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (CSB) Green Blazers clinched its first general championship in five years in this year’s season of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).

The NCAA Season 89 hosts marked 550.5 points to take home its fourth overall championship since its league inclusion in 1998. In doing so, the

Taft-based team bested San Beda College’s 544 points, ending the latter’s drive for a four-peat general championship.

In a report published at benilde.edu, Benilde President Br. Dennis Magbanua FSC said: “Since this is our hosting year, it feels good to be the General Champion. I’m happy about the performance of our student-athletes. They

played their games really well and they did our College proud.”

From 1998, CSB won only three general championships in 2006, 2008 and 2009.

The green school of the NCAA ended the season with championships in Men’s and Women’s Badminton, Soft Tennis, and Men’s Beach Volleyball.

Furthermore, adding to the

Cheerleading team posts dismal NCAA performance Rea Antonette Gierran

READY FOR ANOTHER BATTLE: LAC fell short in its NCAA stint yet vowed to end dismal performance next season. | PHOTO from Julian nico Ogao’s facebook acasoncounT

After placing fourth last year, the Lakas Arriba Cheerleading (LAC) Team only managed an eighthplace finish at this year’s National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) cheerleading competition on March 6 at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The 35-member team from Intramuros gained only 385 points, which was unexpected by many NCAA cheerleading fans.

“Down to the last days of our reheasal, nagkakaroon pa rin kami ng doubts sa mga sarili namin and sa isa’t isa. But we tried our best para magkaroon ng positive aura and perspec-

tive; we made use of those negativities to become our strength,” Letran Cheerleading Team member Criselle Manipon said.

When asked what went wrong with the team, the former Ms. Letran 2014 bet answered: “Schedule. I guess yun yung pinaka major contributor sa problem. Kasi most of the time di talaga tugma mga schedule namin.

We’re not under athletics kasi so we’re really having a hard time maghanap ng class schedule na magcocompromise sa schedule ng nakararami.”

Meanwhile, University of Perpetual Help System Dalta Altas Perp Squad ex-

tended their dominance in the cheerleading competition as they bagged their 5th straight championship.

Arellano University and Emilio Aguinaldo College, both probationary squads last season, were initially seen as Perpetual’s greatest competitors but the Mapua Cheerping Cardinals proved to be more adjusted as they finished third this season.

The Las Piñas-based squad accumulated 480.8 points to cap their eight cheerleading title, followed by the Dancing Chiefs who also finished second last year with 468 points. The Cheerping Cardinals settled for third place with 460.5 points.

“Ngayon lang kami nagchampion na may fall sa stunt, the last time (na nagchampion) na may fault din was in 2010,” said Perpetual Help coach Ruf Rosario, adding, “But the judges know the difficulty that we did.”

After bagging their first championship in 2005, the winning streak continued until 2007 when Jose Rizal University finished first in 2008.

The closest the LAC Team got to the crown was back in 2004 and 2007 when they finished second both times.

Blazers’ tally are runnerup finishes in Chess, Women’s Table Tennis, Women’s Tae Kwon Do, and Men’s and Women’s Swimming.

This year’s champions also took third place in Men’s Lawn Tennis, Men’s Table Tennis, Men’s Tae Kwon Do and Women’s Volleyball.

Despite a title-finish in Seniors’ Basketball and Football, Men’s and Women’s Swimming, Men’s and

Women’s Table Tennis, Men’s and Women’s Tae Kwon Do and Soft Tennis, San Beda only managed a bridesmaid’s finish in this years’ season.

Poor performances in Men’s Badminton and Beach Volleyball ended the 4-peat seeking Red Lion’s over-all title campaign.

Meanwhile, Jose Rizal University is set to host the 90th season of the NCAA.

NCAA awards PHL team athletes Rea Antonette Gierran

ONE FOR THE COUNTRY: Bagsit makes it on top after two tries in the recent SEA Games. | PHOTO from archand crhistian bagsit’s facebook account

National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) honored its athletes who represented the national colors in international tilts at the NCAA closing ceremony held at the Mall of Asia Arena on March 6.

Among them were former Letran basketball star Kevin Louie Alas and former Colegio trackster Archand Christian Bagsit.

It would be remembered that Gilas Pilipinas Coach Chot Reyes announced in Twitter the roster of the Sinag Pilipinas team. Counted in the list was

Alas, together with Prince Caperal, who were both recognized by the NCAA’s managing committee.

Meanwhile, Bagsit was also recognized for the success he brought for his two-time double gold bagging at the 27th South East Asian games.

Awarding of the winning team per sports resumed wherein the College of Saint Benilde Blazers prevailed as the general winner for the seniors division while San Beda College’s Red Cubs took home the crown for the juniors division.