VOLUME 14 ISSUE 2
RI SE JANUARY 2022
THE LIFELINE
Editor's Note
• F R O M
T H E
E D I T O R ' S
E D I T O R ' S
N O T E
D E S K •
WELCOME TO THE
YEAR 2022!
Dear You,
Indeed, 2021 was a roller coaster ride for every one of us. We had our moments of ups and downs yet, we constantly strive to move forward and we successfully came through. As we always say, the moment we close another page, another chapter begins to unfold. This year can be an ending to someone’s chapter of the story, or this year can be someone’s beginning in creating an adventure-filled story.
The year 2022 will be a highlight to everyone’s story as this year places a crucial role for every one of us as we will be playing one of the most vital roles we will be making as an individual. And that is no other than electing a new set of leaders who will run our country for the next six years. It is within our hands to create a better future not just for our generation but for the succeeding ones.
The year 2022 also places hope on every one of us, especially for us students. It is a year filled with anticipation as we move forward to the last semester for this academic year. Most of us are wondering probably with these questions in mind. Will we be seeing each other soon? Will we be on campus soon? What will it feel once we get back on campus? 2 years ago, we always ask questions like how’s your day? But after such unfortunate happenings such as the Covid-19 pandemic the how’s your day question will now be replaced with, how were your 2 years? Having all of these in mind, isn’t 2022 the year most of us look forward to? Here’s to the things that are yet to come, and here’s to the memories and lessons from 2021 that we will hold on to and cherish.
On behalf of The Lifeline, I present to you our second issue for this academic year 2021-2022. Once again, coming from the fruits of hard work from our editors and writers for the last time this school year, The Lifeline will remain true and committed to its mantra of checking the people’s pulse and monitoring the state of affairs. As we bid our goodbyes to another chapter of the story with all the lessons in life we bring, I say Phoenixes here’s to the year 2022 filled with hope and promise. May the New Year bless every one of us with the desires of our hearts, happiness, and growth.
JANA MIKAELLA O. NUÑEZ EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Meet the members of
THE LIFELINE
Jana Mikaella O. Nuñez
Suzaine M. Paras
Lady Ann Sheirina D. Carlos
Janella Rome F. David
Editor in Chief
Associate Editor
Noriel P. Calaguas, MSHSA, RN Adviser
CORE GROUP Co-founder
Co-founder
Arianne Chellie D. Flores Feature Editor
Alyanah Joy B. Gloriani Junior Staff
Managing Editor
Desirae D. Gamboa
Junior Staff
Creative Director
Ma. Charmaine B. Centeno
Junior Staff
FEATURE AND EDITORIAL
Ralph Vincent H. Sta. Rosa Senior News Editor
Shekinah Chloe P. Catacutan News Editor
Pio Raphael Lao Sports Editor
Adryan A. Galang Senior Staff
NEWS AND SPORTS
Clarizze Cheyne C. Due Graphic Design Head
Christine Dhey S. Turla Junior Staff
Jeremiah P. Olalia Junior Staff
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Sophia B. Casupanan Junior Staff
Irish Nicole G. Supangan
Head Photo Journalist
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
Julius V. Evangelista
TABLE OF
NEWS SNAMS SPEAKS: PHOENIXES’ THOUGHTS ON THE NEW UNIVERSITY OIC PRESIDENT
1
COLUMN ACTIVE NOT PASSIVE
5
RESTING PIECE, NOT REST IN PEACE
7
WE NEVER SAW WHAT HAPPENED IN THE 70S
9
A PHOENIX THAT LOST ITS FIRE
11
ARE THEY REALLY TO BLAME?
13
EDITORIAL POLITRICKS: LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!
15
VOLUME 14
CONTENTS
FEATURE THE UNFOLDING: A CHAPTER TO A STORY
17
ENDORSEMENTS FROM EARNEST: THE PHOENIXES’ ADVOCACIES
21
COLLEGE STUDENT ENTREPRENEURS
27
THROUGH LENSES UNSEEN: THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF DR. CALINGO
33
LITERARY DEAR ME
39
ISSUE 2
N
E
W
S
SNAMS SPEAK Phoenixes’ Thoughts On The
New University OIC President
T E X T
1
B Y : S U Z A I N E
P A R A S
Last
October
Leopoldo Angel
N.
16,
Valdes,
University,
2021,
Jr.
the
was
following
grandson
appointed the
of
as
passing
Juan
the
of
OIC
its
D.
Nepomuceno,
President
former
of
the
president,
Mr. Holy
Dr.
Luis
Maria R. Calingo. Mr.
Valdes
Engineer
and
business
graduated
holds
strategy,
a
from
De
Master's
and
a
La
Salle
degree
Master's
in
University
Business
degree
in
as
a
Chemical
Administration
Management
in
in
Human
resource. Additionally, he is currently taking a doctorate degree. In
line
President. the
with
The
student
this,
Lifeline
and
the
Phoenixes
interviewed
professor
a
category
welcome
few
our
Angelite
regarding
newly
appointed
Phoenixes
their
both
thoughts
on
under
Sir
Leo
Valdes, and their responses are the following:
“We of
are
our
Leo
grateful
path
in
Valdes.
strength entire
May
and
HAU
to
have
climbing the
wisdom
you
good as
We
the
way
as
the
goals
are we
of
our
to
Sir you
navigate
the
have
together
beloved
helm
grant
towards
excited work
the
Everest,
Lord
you
community
success.
at
Mount
to
further you
lead
achieve
University.
May
it continue to grow abundantly under your leadership. lead
want
for
to
bring
our
heights. should But in
thank
stepping
since
the
one we
current
facilitating
the
are
the
about
safe
pandemic.
student, those
we
As
want
to
incoming
students
to
when
comes
it
at
to
of
Laus
to
Deo
a
step that
focus
I
reconsider we
an
on
which
hope are
is
the the
still
in
SNAMS
advocate
current
least
student
new
class
an
to
believe
4th-year
be
and
have
I
since
a
committing
and
priorities.
should
will
especially
for
greater
the
take
Also,
administration fees,
for
to
resuming
lead
much
experience.
President
you Bless
president
the
topmost
face-to-face.
current tuition
to
education of
OIC
taking
University
learning
limited
current
and
Quality be
our
the
in
Thank God
Semper!!”
ASST. PROF. JENNY DAVID, NURSING DEPARTMENT.
“I
us,
to
SNAMS
opportunity
scholarships
that
the
LADY ANN SHEIRINA CARLOS LEVEL IV BSN STUDENT & THE MANAGING EDITOR OF THE LIFELINE, UTTERED.
University is offering.”
2
“To our current OIC-President (Sir Leo), I’m very grateful that you accepted the challenging position as our torchbearer. I solely believed that you could accomplish the responsibilities inherent to such a position because you have the competence in performing these tasks and most especially a heart that continuously listens to ALL HAU employees and students. I wish
BSMT PROFESSOR BUCUD SHARED.
LEA
ANNE
you the very best of luck and guarantee you of my support in this journey.”
“First of all, I would like to congratulate our current OICPresident for bravely accepting the responsibility. Knowing that the late President Calingo focused more on the educational side, may the current President consider allowing programs such as strengthening partnerships, bridging programs, and sharing expertise to hone students not only in their minds but also their skills during this pandemic. SNAMS courses are one of the skill-based programs. May the President keep his ears open to the collective voices of the students. God bless the HAU President”
3
SAID ARRION JOSHUA SANTOS, A LEVEL IV, BSMT STUDENT & THE CURRENT VICE PRESIDENT FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OF THE PHISMETS-HAU CHAPTER.
“I wish that the current OIC President will
MR. VALDES WILL HEAD HOLY ANGEL UNIVERSITY UNTIL THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES APPOINTS A NEW PRESIDENT.
listen to the complaints of the students and heed to their call even more than that of the former President. As I think that communicating with student representatives of the different organizations in the school is key in making a better institution, the OIC President can begin his term by conversing with student leaders regarding the problems we experience especially during this online setup. I also wish that he becomes vigilant regarding the different issues circulating within the country and that he stands strong in representing the correct and positive stance the former president has built up with the school. Overall, I hope that his term is filled with positive outcomes and that he builds a good relationship with the administration, school staff, and the students. I think that keeping the focus on giving quality education should still be one of the main priorities of the administration of the current OIC President. However, he should also take the employees and students into consideration, making sure that their welfare is also prioritized in the decisions the administration makes. Focus on
DARRYL TOLENTINO, A LEVEL III BSRT STUDENT & THE CURRENT VICE PRESIDENT FOR INTERNAL AFFAIRS OF ASSOCIATION OF RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGY STUDENTS (ARTS), ANSWERED WHEN ASKED WHAT HE WISHES TO SAY TO THE CURRENT OIC PRESIDENT.
making education accessible to everyone should also be considered since it is important that the institution does not forget what is stated in their mission statement and remain with their roots.”
4
COLUMN
2021
Active Not Passive THE TARGET
JANA MIKAELLA O. NUÑEZ EDITOR IN CHIEF
It is high time again for campaign periods to pay their way off trying to win the heart of the masses. Various campaign ads, flyers, posters, merchandise, and other associated propaganda gets loud in order to gain the most prized possession of all, the star of a politician’s show; a vote and support. An icon for sports, the son of the former President/a well-known dictator, a senator, a veteran actor/TV personality, the known “mother” of the modern Philippine community. These are just some of the reflective words that describe those people who are aspiring to be the next President of our country. With the election period drawing closer than ever, how would this coming year be different than the previous ones?
5
I firmly believe that as an individual voting is a universal and equal suffrage that we must uphold especially that we have less than a year before we welcome the new set of leaders who will run our country, but due to the circumstance where our votes correspond to a given amount it does become a chore that one must accomplish knowing that they will gain something in return. We, as people, became stagnant to the idea of the word “utang na loob” where in the first place it is our right to be served and not to serve the politicians, this idea is not something that we should be romanticizing and should be soon put into an end. It is our power to throne the deserving as we uphold one of the most crucial responsibilities that we have as an individual.
L e a d e r s h i p i s n o t a c o n t i n g e n c y p la n in o r d e r t o r e d e e m a f al s e f o rm o f g l o r y , l e a d e r s h i p i s n o t w h it e w a s h in g t h e g r a v e s o f t h e m art i al l aw v i c t i m s , l e a d e r s h i p i s n o t b la t a n t ly f a b r ic a t in g an y o f y o u r i n f o r m a t i o n t o l o o k c r e d i b le a n d w in t h e h e a r t s a n d v o t e s o f t h e m a s s e s , l e a d e r s h i p i s n o t f e ig n in g b e n e v o le n c e , n o r i s l e ad e rs h i p a retirement plan or a heritage that needs to be pass on.
Leadership should be rooted in the willingness to serve your countrymen alone. It is a sacred oath you’ d swear to take on even before you are accepted for that position. Opposing to what is not right and standing firm to the true essence of leadership which is sole service and not self-appraisal. Now is the time to break the chains of what we think is an ideal form of leadership. We should always be on the run to check for facts. To rely on a 100% credibility of those individuals who will be running not just for the presidency but for all the positions within both local and national government levels, because this isn’t about political dynasty, or who’s more known to the public, o r w h o s e r v e d t h e l o n g e s t , it ' s a b o u t b r a v e ly a n d r e a d i l y t ak i n g t h e r e s p o n s i b i l i t y o f w h o l e - h e a r t e d ly s e r v in g t h e p e o p le b e c au s e at t h e e n d o f t h e d a y w e n e e d l e a d e r s , n o t h e ir s , w e n e e d l awm ak e rs , n o t lawbreakers.
So, will you take the responsibility this time to be active or you will once again remain passive?
6
RESTING PIECE, NOT REST IN PEACE APOGEE SUZAINE PARAS ASSOCIATE EDITOR
If God rested after He accomplished creating the world, why can’t we?
Typically, a semester runs for about five months. Personally, I have 25 units. Some have more, and some have less. In the field of medicine, there will be so many things to learn. There are so many topics for each subject in a semester. Every day is essential for professors to finish the assigned modules, to equip their students with the things they need for their future profession. There is typically one module per subject per week that one needs to finish, from advanced reading to assessments. Depending on how many subjects you have, that will be multiplied for each of the subjects.
7
A student has to attend a class for almost 8 to 12 hours a day. The healthy amount of sleep for their age range is 6 to 8 hours. That would be at most 20 hours spent for the day. They have 4 hours remaining to eat, take a bath, do chores, do school activities, and spend time with their families. How are they supposed to pack that all in four hours? So, they tend to lessen their sleep to finish all the activities that they are supposed to do. How can one go for five months being sleep-deprived and be physically, emotionally, and mentally healthy? Some people tend to think that life as a student is easier these days because all the things are accessed online. They see students caved up in their rooms, sitting and looking at the screen all day, thinking that life is so much easier. Some may think that students do not need to have a break, because how can one get tired of sitting all day, right? Studies show that being exhausted mentally also leads to being exhausted physically. Doing physical things and getting the brain to work both require energy from the body. Consequently, when you do too much, you get tired. Slowly, you lose interest and all you want to do is just finish everything. This is what students are experiencing. Personally, there are times that I work just to have something to pass. Sometimes giving up due to fatigue seems reasonable. I think it is safe to say that I’m not the only one. Hopefully, we all know about those students who gave up their lives due to stress from school. Saddening, yes. However, it is more infuriating, because they had to go through that level of exhaustion and stress. Schools are responsible for making sure that the amount of work they require students is achievable, without having to sacrifice a lot to accomplish it. Yes, pressure is healthy, but given the circumstance, we are in is stressful enough. Not having people around, the support system that we are accustomed to, and the freedom that we once have, has its toll on every one of us. Then, here comes a lot of work, a lot of pressure, and a lot of stress. We all need a breather, right? We all need rest. This is why health breaks are essential for students. This will give them time to recharge again. It gives them time to rethink and regain their purpose. More importantly, it gives them time to rest, to have time for themselves, their families, and their friends. Especially in this time of the pandemic, where stress, anxiety, depression is alarming, leniency is the best thing that an institution can give for their students. We are all humans. We all need rest. Even God did when He created this world. We get tired. We get burned out. We need rest. I believe that all schools and universities must provide these kinds of breaks to help their students, especially in these trying times.
Let us help one another to face these trying times. Let us be lenient and considerate. We all need a resting piece, not a rest in peace.
8
WE NEVER SAW WHAT HAPPENED IN THE 70S
COLUMN
KEEP VEIN OPEN We never saw what happened in the 70s. We were never in that darkness. We never
LADY ANN SHEIRINA CARLOS MANAGING EDITOR
experienced the torture, being silenced, and we never experienced their pain. But now, we are educated. We read every story with different versions. Some stories are written by bloodied hands. Some are written on
Pain, sufferings, torturing, missing loved ones, no freedom, and perpetual darkness for some. These are some of the many scary words that you can use to describe life in
shed their blood. We heard stories from our grandparents
about
their
nightmares,
bad
dreams that they couldn't wake up. We heard stories from people whose friends and family
the Philippines during the 70s. Now, that we
were taken at the dead of the night, gone
are about to elect the next president to
forever without saying goodbye, whose only
whom our life is entrusted for the next six
sin was they asked for their nightmares to
years. A lot of people are arguing that the
end. They were tortured, silenced, and killed
year 70s was the most glorious day in our
just because they wanted to shed light on
country.
9
behalf of those we wish never really need to
their countrymen.
COLUMN
We heard the other side of the story
We were never there, we never saw
too, that he was brilliant and brave, as his
what happened, we never experience
allies put it, though cunning might be a
how is it during those times, but we
better word. He had a lot of different
were born at a time when we can
aspects to him, which are characteristics
finally have a choice to know, their
of everybody, even criminals and dictators.
story in relation to ours, their struggles
It does not make him any more special,
as
though.
difference between being kept in the
part
of
our
history,
and
the
dark from choosing to be blinded. We saw a lot of infrastructures he built
Do not let the bloodshed before us
too, all big and tall to keep us looking up and never look down to see what is really happening. A lot of people are blinded by the
shade
of
these
infrastructures.
And
some, just choose to close their eyes maybe because they cannot admit to themselves that they were fooled or just simply they do not really know.
be put to waste. Choose to open your
eyes even in the darkest times. Choose no
government
country.
Choose
but
the
choose
your
Philippines.
Together we can make our country a place like home again.
10
A Phoenix that Lost Its Fire PANORAMA
ARIANNE CHELLIE FLORES FEATURE EDITOR
Ever-resilient and majestic is a Phoenix. This mythical bird has been such a timeless symbol of rebirth, immortality, passion, and eternal fire. Justly, it has also been used as the icon of future healthcare professionals in the University. Embodying the blazing fire of a Phoenix, we have always risen from ashes and worked with that burning fire and passion for our dreams in life. Professionals already in the field, with their inner Phoenixes in them, also did contribute nobly and selflessly exhausting every ounce of strength and power they have all for their full commitment to help and serve people. Sounds beautiful, isn’t it? This is the problem.
The tales of these Phoenixes sound so beautiful as a classic literary piece because we romanticize the voyage of healthcare sectors in this pandemic while leaving the fact that they are compromised and neglected. Deemed as heroes, we give healthcare professionals a lot of tributes but most stay silent about them being overworked, underpaid, undercompensated, and set aside while they continue to battle in the frontlines.
11
“Salute to HCWs” is everywhere on social media but when these frontliners cry for help and fair treatment which by the way should be the bare minimum, they are called grumblers, lazy and some Marites would even pull out there “isn’t this your sworn oath?” and “you are paid to do this” cards.
People can also put pressure on medical students and gaslight them while they endure sleepless nights and restless school days making them feel as if a break is a mortal sin to have. How ironic is it that medical sciences students learn health at the expense of their own? They study to know how to take care of people while forgetting to look after their own selves. Their over fatigued and sleepless selves preach to live a healthy lifestyle and advise that people get rest and take a break.
They have their own limitations and their fire cannot endure forever.
The value of healthcare sectors, not just in this pandemic, is unrivaled and unquestionable. Rightfully due, they should be treated not only with every bit of respect but also economically and practically, they must be compensated justly and reasonably which is the least we could do for all the services they have rendered especially in the past two years. If we fail in this premise, we do not just put off the fire of our Phoenixes but we might, no not might, we certainly will lose them permanently.
While it is true that phoenixes and healthcare sectors are in some way similar, there is one ground that sets them apart: being mortal. Phoenixes are immortal and mystic. Healthcare sectors are not. They are not gods and mythical creatures that feel no pain and exhaustion. They do not have superpowers to put up with every
injustice imposed upon them. Unlike Phoenixes, they cannot literally rise from the dead or burn themselves and resurrect. 12
Are They Really to Blame?
INNER CHILD ALYANAH JOY GLORIANI JUNIOR STAFF WRITER 13
As
the election draws nearer, political discussions are common, especially on various social media platforms. Suppose you were at all in one of these apps or websites these past few weeks. In that case, posts made by people criticizing particular individuals supporting certain political aspirants might have crossed your feed.
The number of people who have blatantly used and defended their use of video sharing sites such as TikTok and YouTube as their primary source of reliable information is, simply put, quite alarming. But is it fair to call these said individuals the familiar common derogatory terms belittling their intelligence for thinking that way? According to a survey in 2017 by Philam Life, only about 23% of Filipinos get to finish their college degree, most of the time due to financial constraints. We all know that the most crucial time wherein the importance of reliable sources is taught mainly occurs during the four years that someone is acquiring the bachelor’s degree, in preparation for their undergraduate thesis. I believe that information literacy, being able to critically identify what are reliable sources from what is not, is mainly acquired during college. I certainly am just getting the hang of it right now as an undergraduate student, so what would happen to the rest of us who weren’t able to? From what I can see, these people are not ones to be blamed. They are also victims, merely victims of the system and false information. TikTok and YouTube provide readily available information usually narrated in the vernacular with engaging graphics and easy-to-digest fragments of a story, albeit inaccurate.
These media are more easily understandable for the masses. They are garnished with the familiar enticing empathetic tone politicians use to sell themselves to the common folk, thus making themselves appear more desirable.
Many of the content published by these same people often get attacked by those who disagree using remarks that rather reek of elitism, albeit unbeknownst to them. Contradicting these people has been ruled out as useless because they can be difficult to discourse with, they use emotional reasoning rather than logic while following by the example of their political bet; who, most of the time use an empathetic strategy to woo the hearts of many. Some play a maternal or paternal role who treats everyone as “family” who’d help them from poverty or those who call people their friends, promising a good life in exchange for their loyalty. If we are to put ourselves in the shoes of someone who did not finish or at least receive proper education, do you think you’d pick a thorough English article with terms and numbers unfamiliar to you or a minute-long video in Filipino you could fully comprehend and even emotionally resonate with? It would most likely be the latter, most of the time. But then again, in this age where cellphones and entertainment applications are more accessible than education and information literacy, are they really to blame?
14
EDITORIAL COLUMN
PoliTricks: Lights, Camera, Action! • Text by Arianne Chellie Flores •
I
t is that time in Philippine politics again where people suddenly become extra-kind, generous, helpful, and humble. It is that season once again where with just one cry of help, politicians will rush to the rescue, something bizarre because on regular days, they are the same people who turn a blind eye and cover their ears even to the loudest pleas and most desperate calls. With the 2022 National Elections being close at hand, political candidates, both for national and local positions, start their game of wooing prior to the official start of the campaign periods. Making it to newspaper headlines, some candidates have visited different regions aiming to recruit voters to side with their camps. Some held caravans and motorcades. Supporters of a known presidentiable initiated feeding programs using the iconic food associated with their candidate. Symbolic color days also started to promote some candidates. Ads on social media campaigning politicians also began annoyingly popping up. A candidate even ‘helped’ and gave ‘cash aids’ to people while playing innocent to vote-buying, claiming it was just his natural generous ‘personality’ beyond the context of politics. Another play-ignorant candidate was promoted through emergency alert text messages, an indeed new yet disgusting gimmick to mark his candidacy.
15
• Cartoon by Clarizze Cheyne Due •
All, except one, presidentiables also joined a forum recently initiated by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) where they appealed to the nation and presented their plans and political aspirations if they win the 2022 elections. In the local scene, huge faces of candidates are posted everywhere. Relief packs, posters and nearly every single item distributed have imprints of familiar political families and candidates. Local political officials are easier to approach, found nearly everywhere, talking to any voter or even willing to help with anything. It is also a battle of endorsements. Governors, mayors, or representatives also form allies with different presidentiables, promising support and win in their local units. What do they get in return? Voters can and will never know.
EDITORIAL COLUMN
All these tiresome poli-tricks have always been part of what elections are like in the Philippines. These are the same old gimmicks that voters encounter every single election. Those huge posters, colorful flyers, envelopes sometimes with a 500-peso bill inside, those loud, thumping campaign jingles, and free merchandises, all those are part of the election culture. Dancing budots, unclear platforms, flowery words, make-believe promises, fake credentials, family background, and even popularity are what appeals more sometimes. Even if faced with candidates who have promising credentials, solid educational background, clean political and criminal records, clear and comprehensive plans, voters sometimes get deceived by propagandas and creatively fabricated campaign information. This is why despite the repeating pattern of pretense, the funny circus of candidates, and the predictable tricks of different groups, Filipinos get fooled over and over again. Thrown a stone, Filipinos still want a boulder. Been under a dictator, a huge crowd still support an enabler and a son of the former. Presented with criminal records, voters still give a chance to criminals. If this cycle continues, could a better Philippines be really at hand? If voters mindlessly believe what they see after the “Lights, camera, action!”, will they not regret what they will get after the “and cut!”?
16
The Unfolding: A Chapter to a Story Text by: Desirae Gamboa
Feature
17
A
s we are about to welcome the new and refreshing year 2022, let us take this moment to recall and bid our farewells to the year 2021. The animal Ox, according to Chinese culture is a valued animal for its essentiality in agriculture, hardworking, honest, and optimistic characteristics. It was indeed the year that brought us the spirit of solidarity and citizenship as we unified our collective efforts to battle against the COVID-19 pandemic. Being said as the year filled with optimism and hope, an individual representative for each department of the School of Nursing and Allied Medical Sciences provided us with creativity and innovative perceptions as they describe their batch and name them in one meaningful word. Starting with Ms. Bernadeth Quiroz, the representative of the Nursing department, Ms. Michal Villanueva representing the Medical Technology department, and lastly, Mr. Mohammad Catacutan from the Radiologic Technology Department.
batch lualu. The department of Nursing picked “Lualu”, a Kapampangan word that means "defending the defenseless, championing the unprotected, and the destitute," which is also a cultural value every Kapampangan has. When asked about their explanation of their chosen batch name, Ms. Quiroz mentioned that overcoming all challenges that life brought them empowered their fighting spirits to continue being resilient and strong. “Being the very first batch of K-12 and experienced the pandemic, our class chose a batch name that genuinely represents our passion within our profession—to defend the defenseless amidst the crisis and championing the unprotected through our advocacy on accessible healthcare for all Filipino people.” 18
batch hiraya. Not to mention the Medical Technology department, Ms. Villanueva, their batch chose the word “Hiraya”, an ancient Filipino word that means “the fruit of one's dreams, wishes, and aspirations.” They mentioned that they have used a different batch name before, but they made alterations and align the name following their vision. “From 50 to 13 students remaining, all that we want is for the wishes of our hearts to be granted. First, finish our degree, and second, become the healthcare workers that we aspire to be.” Said Ms. Villanueva as they picture themselves receiving the fruits of their labor and hard works.
batch kairos. And lastly, from the Department of Radiologic Technology, the name chosen is “Kairos”, a noun used to symbolize a suitable season or opportunity. “Radiologic Technologist serves as the ‘Eye of the Medicine’ they can be portrayed as the ‘Photographers’ of the medical field. Photographers refer to the period shortly before sunset or just after sunrise as "golden hour" or "magic hour," when the lighting is exactly right, giving their subjects a soft, warm, and photogenic color.” Mr. Catacutan stated describing their strengths as the source of creating countless opportunities to look within what the eye can perceive.
19
From a quote written by Gemma Troy, “Goodbyes are not just endings but beginnings too.” Despite being the first batch of the K12 program, it was also a hurdle to receive optimum education through online classes due to a lack of resources. Countless safety adjustments and enhancements were made such as wearing face masks, face shields, social distancing, and lockdowns. It is hard to tell when our past pre-COVID 19 setups will return. Sometimes our plans do not work out in the way we perceived them to happen, but it does not define failure. Since these batch names signify strength and resilience, the medical students will remain strong as ever before. As we approach this year with growth, success, and optimism, may we make this a time to appreciate our confidence and bravery amidst this new brave world. These batch names progress as we welcome another year full of opportunities and odds. This new era is a new beginning, a new chapter of the story to unfold.
20
The Phoenixes’ Advocacies It is often said that change is the only constant thing in this world. But change is not an instant circumstance we get. It is a result of continuous efforts and hard work. Among us working towards the change that they want to see are advocates, who push to attain a reform in the society for the people's welfare and the overall improvement of our living spaces. Three Angelite advocates from the School of Nursing and Allied Medical Sciences share their experiences so far as they work for their respective advocacies. Maria Charmaine B. Centeno and Mr. Noriel P. Calaguas, MSHSA, RN from the Department of Nursing, and Mr. John Mark De Vera, MSHSA, RRT from the Department of Radiologic Technology, imparted their insights on the journey they've had so far.
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Endorsements from Earnest:
Text by: Alyanah Joy Gloriani
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Mr. Noriel Calaguas, MSHSA, RN, Chairperson for the Nursing Program, and faculty member of the Nursing Department, is one of the many advocates for efforts against HIV/AIDS. He began his advocacy after losing a close friend in 2010 due to AIDS-related complications. HIV/AIDS is often associated with many stigmas, especially in the Philippines, making it hard for patients seek help comfortably. "It's hard to lose someone not fully understanding his cause of death because he waited till his last days to tell us he had been diagnosed with HIV... I do not want his death to be in vain," Mr. Calaguas said. Mr. Calaguas aims to document and generate knowledge that could inform local policies and practices. Since the early years of his advocacy, he has participated in HIV-oriented efforts, from providing professional care to clients seeking HIV testing and counseling to leadership positions, which allowed him to learn and further develop his monitoring and evaluation skills. Eventually, these experiences and roles allowed him to be considered a subject matter expert, which opened opportunities for discussion for him by speaking at various fora, conferences, schools, and universities. "With around 35 Filipinos still being diagnosed with HIV every day, I do not think we can understate the relevance of preventing the spread of HIV/AIDS through effective health education and prevention strategies," stated Mr. Calaguas. Now, he works towards developing nurses' competence in HIV care through primary and specialized nursing care.
22
Moreover, Mr. John Mark De Vera, MSHSA, RRT, Chairperson for the Radiologic Technology Program and faculty member of the Radiologic Technology Department, is an advocate for radiation safety and protection. His interest in this subject matter started back during his internship days and when he was still a staff radiologic technologist when he noticed that the cardinal principles of radiation protection was not practiced effectively.
"In the healthcare field, we serve the patients to attain the maximum beneficial output, that is, to restore their health, making sure their functional integrity is maintained through the medical interventions they undergo, both for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes," said Mr. De Vera. He strives to establish through this advocacy to always gear towards the protection of the patients and workers. The advocacy for radiation safety and protection is being initiated to aim towards a safer working environment and avoid radiation-induced health risks. Mr. De Vera wanted to focus on two aspects for his advocacy; to strengthen radiation protection education of future health professionals and radiation safety culture in healthcare.
23
He also referenced the International Atomic Energy Agency's Bonn-call for action and the Radiation Safety Traits Talks Handbook, both materials that established the call to strengthen radiation protection in medicine and healthcare settings. Mr. De Vera responds to the said materials by implementing the 'Angelite Radiation Safety Pledge' to remind his students of their sworn duty to strengthen radiation protection and safety to safeguard the patients, themselves, and the general public from radiation hazards.
"In my advocacy, I want to emphasize that even if radiation cannot be perceived by human senses when we are exposed to it, especially from medical exposure, it is always important to protect ourselves from its harmful effects," Mr. De Vera said. He also deems that his advocacy is easily translated in the academe as he teaches Radiobiology and Radiation Protection to BSRT students, strictly training them how to properly execute radiation safety measures and other radiation exposure limiting practices. After all, he believes that as medical imaging professionals and radiation therapy technologists, the sworn oath must always be kept in mind and ensure adherence to the profession's ethical standards.
24
Lastly, Ma. Charmaine Centeno, a level one student nurse and the reigning Ms. SNAMS 2021, has just begun to pave her way as an advocate for mental health. During the competition for Mr. and Ms. SNAMS 2021, she chose mental health awareness as the subject of her advocacy, spearheading her journey as a proponent. She thinks it is a relevant social problem, and it is a crucial component to consider when caring for our physiological health. Especially during the current COVID-19 pandemic, she believes it has attacked us in many ways, and our minds are no exception. The people surrounding her, especially adolescents who have responsibilities to study aside from their well-being, inspire her to pursue her advocacy. In the light of the current pandemic, many things changed drastically for most of us. Centeno shared that she also struggles in this setup, which causes her to have difficulties learning the lessons efficiently, creating thoughts of failing in her mind accompanied by overthinking and stress. Despite these, she mentioned that she managed to pull through by learning how to embrace her vulnerabilities, unwinding, and staying connected with people. From what she experienced and the epiphanies she had with it, she wishes to achieve through her advocacy to motivate people to learn how to validate their feelings and seek help when it is necessary. "Also, make them, especially my fellow students, realize that sometimes it's okay not to be okay," Centeno added.
25
As a future nurse advocating for the mental health of her fellow future healthcare worker, she firmly believes that it dramatically affects our physiological health—significantly affecting capabilities in providing holistic care to people. Centeno wishes to reduce the stigma and discrimination towards mental health by improving communal understanding, not only on campus but also for the country.
"Taking care of your mental and physical health is just as important as any career move or responsibility" is a quote by Mireille Guiliano that Centeno goes by as she traverses through the blossoming journey of her advocacy. We all have different matters we keep dear in our hearts that we handle with earnestness. Some may stem from love, hurtful pasts, or even just an epiphany derived from the current circumstance being served. Nonetheless, the fervent passion we have within us is the very fuel towards the change that we want to see concerning these subject matters. The testimonies of our Angelite advocates are pieces of evidence of the possibility of endorsing your most earnest drive for action to take a step towards the progress you want to see.
26
COLLEGE STUDENT ENTREPRENEURS Text by: Pio Raphael Lao & Adryan Galang
As a college student, you’re likely juggling the demands of studies and work. Balancing your responsibilities can seem daunting at times, but it can be done! The allied medical field as it is is no easy task, and having a company while studying takes an enormous amount of skill and an excellent way of balancing work and school life. The lifeline took it up with some of the students from the School of Nursing and Allied Medical Sciences (SNAMS) and interviewed 3 of its graduating students. The first student would be coming from BSN batch 2022 named Christine Dhey Turla owner of EL & TEA a small business, if you’re a sweet tooth at heart this might be the shop that you are looking for. EL & TEA offers a variety of pastries like banana bread, carrot cake, crinkles, cookies, cupcakes, etc. Her small business started when the pandemic hit, Ms. Turla took TVL (technical vocational strand) during her senior high school days in which she became familiar with baking. 27
COLLEGE STUDENT ENTREPRENEURS
When asked about how she balances working and studying Ms. Turla mentioned "I know it's cliché to say that "time management" is the key but it’s true and I really apply it when it comes to my studies and how I adjust my workload when it comes to handling my small business. I list down the things that I have to do for school and when I have a lot of orders in my small business, I adjust my time to accommodate all orders that I have to finish.” Some challenges she faced being a working student primarily would be her workload especially that she does not have anyone to assist her given that she said her business is a “one-man team”. The pandemic has not been kind on anyone especially to those with small businesses, and a factor that affected Ms. Turla’s business is the delivery of her products to her customers, given the circumstance her deliveries sometimes get delayed and moved, and as well as customers who place their orders but on the day of delivery, they do not respond to her messages anymore. When asked about what advice she could give to students who want to start their own business/company she had this to say “One thing that I have to say is that you do not have to be afraid of starting all over again when your small business/company fails. "Dream and work towards that dream because opportunity comes when you know how to recognize it. You may feel all the pressure especially with those people who are expecting a lot, just let them be. There are people or strangers who will believe in you and will make you the most satisfied owner of your own company.” FB AND IG PAGE: @EL & TEA 28
COLLEGE STUDENT ENTREPRENEURS
Another student coming from BSN batch 2022 named Richard Patrick Lansangan owner of Fish Stop an ornamental fish trading that offers a one-stop shop for freshwater fishes, aquatic plants, aquarium tanks and stands, aquascape accessories, and aquascaping services. His business started as a simple hobby of fish keeping from having a few fish tanks at home and he wanted to expand his hobby even more and share his knowledge and experience to people the joy of having their own fish and properly taking care of them. When asked about how he balances working and studying Mr. Lansangan mentioned “I’m still in the process of learning how to properly manage my time when it comes to my customer’s appointments and group meetings.
What I usually do is I don’t schedule any appointments for my synchronous classes because I want to focus on my studies and also being on hand with my customers”. When asked about the challenges he faced being a working student Mr. Lansangan also mentioned time management. 29
There are times that he has to give away most of his time for his studies and vice versa. The consequences would be either he’d be late for a submission for school requirements or lose a transaction. The pandemic affected their company in a way that the pandemic gave them time to think of an idea of what business should have a click during this time. They saw online that even with the pandemic, people were still open to buying pets such as fish and aquarium setups which encouraged them to pursue this business. When asked about what advice Mr. Lansangan could give to students who want to start their own business/company he had this to say “It's always better to plan ahead and start on something that you are passionate about. This would come in handy someday because there would be times that there won’t be any customers that would last for days, but having passion for what you do would give you edge on not giving up on what you started and continue on improving and growing your own business up to par.”
FB PAGE: FISH STOP
30
COLLEGE STUDENT ENTREPRENEURS
Last but not least, from BSRT batch 2022 is Jhenna Bulanadi who is a part of telecom which is known as Teletech Pampanga as Business Process Outsourcing (BPO). One of the largest technologic conglomerates, that offer a variety of services and digital customer experience solutions. A company that is largely driven and focused on technical and customer support services through social media and telecom. She ventured into this business in order to help with expenses within her family, which would make their lives easier and happier. She always prioritizes family and school before she heads out to work, and finding that balance is not a problem for her. On occasions, there would be a burnout with balancing work, school, and other priorities, which challenges her mental health and toleration. However, through perseverance and strength, she's been able to pull through everything and work towards her own individual goals as a student and as a daughter.
31
COLLEGE STUDENT ENTREPRENEURS
The difficulties that she encounters are being able to go onsite to the office during the pandemic, considering that it's safer to stay at home, and with the new regulations of traveling is more tedious than it was before. The advice that she wanted to give to future generations and the newest batch of students is “start as early as you can. there is no age requirement to start your dreams”.
FB PAGE: TELETECH PILIPINAS IG: @TELETECHLIFE
There you have it Phoenixes, we hope that you get inspired by this group of hardworking and resilient students. Remember that your success is up to you! Set goals for yourself and work hard towards achieving them. With the right techniques under your belt, you’ll find that balancing school work and life after school just got easier!
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Through lens e s Unseen: The Life and Legacy of Dr. Calingo Text by: Jana Mikaella O. Nuñez
33
34
Beyond the iconic black eyeglasses, the coat and tie, and the distinct baritone voice of an influential man in the University is an image of a loving father, husband, and an undeniably incredible leader.
more fondly known as Doc Chito or Doc Calingo, was born on the 10th of June in the year 1955. He is married to Mrs. Gemeline Braga-Calingo and is a father to three beautiful ladies, namely Ashley Marie the eldest, Alexandra Nicole the middle child, and the youngest Arienne Louise.
During his younger days, it is indubitable that our late President is gifted with admirable intellect earning him a scholarship coming from the top-performing school within the Philippines which is the University of the Philippines, Diliman Campus. This is where he took up his Bachelor’s degree and studied as an Industrial Engineering student. Two years after graduation, Dr. Calingo pursued his education and was able to get his Master’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning also from the same University. He then flew to the US and acquired his Master’s degree in Business Administration coming from the University of Pittsburgh.
35
During an interview with Ms.
Arienne Calingo,
When
asked
about
the
Leaving
the
work-related
question How do you find him as
area, it was seen how loving and
that her father has always had
a
caring
the heart to help and improve his
Arienne
country. “I guess in his way, he
has always been a humble man.
wanted
to
educational
she mentioned
improve
landscape
the of
the
University
President,
stated
that
her
Ms. father
“He is the most1 humble leader that I know.” She gave the
Philippines but he didn’t discover
example
this right away. He didn’t know
performing
daughters and as a husband to his
wife
when
Ms.
Arienne
answered the question At home not as the University President or
that education was his… I guess
where she shared that she heard
stated how her father is very kind
his ultimate career path or goal
of
and
and encouraging especially when
is
mother would willingly sit on the
it comes to their studies. During
ground and watch them perform,
the time Ms. Arienne was still a
alongside
other
student and having a hard time
addition,
Ms.
engineering was
at
actually
UP.”
earned
his
with
the
Dr.
first
when
Calingo
job
Development
then
which
Farm
he
was
Systems Corporation
that
mentioned
her
students.
In
Arienne
that
Dr.
also
Calingo
studies
and
getting
a
on telling her parents about this
corporation that aims to hasten
engage
because of the reason that they
world
them.
development
and
to
“He
provide substantial opportunities
was
to
anyone
Filipino
economic
farmers wellbeing
to
attain later
conversation didn't
necessarily else
because
get
instead
was
around.
he
was
with the
“He
her,
other
was
but way very
It's going to be alright. Whenever
a
my
job and then he was promoted to
During
lead
Party
the with
and
first
Calingo
job
he
already
had
an
compassionate
his
in
angry
it
work and with everyone, he was
evaluation group. I guess from his
humble
might
a system analyst. This was his first
very
and
he
than
dignified life. “With that, he was
and
kind
that
higher
encouraging, and he said it’s ok.
development
always
think
with
his
the
and
in
ride
her
bad grade in physics, she said of how nervous and scared she was
government
gladly
with
the
a
also
father
elevator with other students and
(FSDC),
would
the
his
husband what was he like? She
studied
at
with
as an Educator but as a dad and
he
Dharma
is
University
stories
Up
Calingo
Down
because
of
Dr.
person.”
sisters
would
for
Christmas
help,
Professors
just to help us. For example, he
other
would be thoughtful in surprising me with supplemental resources,
lead
like books and website links, to
is
until
the singing which is very unusual
help me excel in my high school
his last years of life. He became
coming from a big person from
and university courses. He was a
interested
the University yet a fun sight to
very simple and humble man who
see. “
seldom complained. He was very
in
continued
even
Dr.
open
the
he
and
everything
interest in helping Filipinos which something
dancefloor
colleagues, sometimes
drop
ask
year-end
would
would
I
the
HAU
he
and
building
quality
assurance,
helped
with
Philippine
quality
assurance
efforts,
as
quality
assurance
well
as
the
the
Thailand
efforts.”
She
also added that Dr. Calingo was asked by the World Bank to assist the
Thailand
government.
“He
He always made an effort to attend school events whether for students or professors and his other colleagues. His focus was always Holy Angel University.”
encouraging
in
whenever
had
I
our
studies
a
and
question,
I
could always go to him to get his insights. He is a very very smart, intelligent loving.
guy.
When
He I
is
also
was
very
having
was also asked by the Philippine
problems, any personal problems
government
I could go to him just because I
to
do
assurance
work,
something
he
very
first
had job
some
and
quality
this
done
was
for
right
his
knew
he
was
always
smartly
headed, he was wise.”
after
graduation. To wrap that up,
He was really passionate about giving to his country, about giving back to the community to the Philippines, and he did this through his different jobs throughout his life. 36
Not to mention, Dr. Calingo can be really focused when it comes to working related areas, but on the other side of the story is a simple man and is a fanatic when it comes to watching “teleseryes,” a man who is sweet, and romantic, the other side that we don’t always get to see. It was told that Dr. Calingo loves watching the ever famous Ang Probinsyano and the top-rated series Please Be Careful With My Heart which is his favorite thing to do together with singing, playing the guitar, and dancing which he chooses as an avenue in exchange for a moment of peace and relaxation. “Even outside of work you know he has things he likes to do for fun, singing, sometimes dancing, he’s a little offbeat but he likes to dance with my mom. I think watching that teleserye is something that they enjoyed doing together. Some other things they like to do, I wasn’t at home during those times because I was living abroad but my mom and dad had their facials together, spa together, they would always have their time for relaxation. And for him, this was something he had told us before that family was very important to him, the most important thing is family, and I did feel that he prioritized us even though he loved his work but he was also doing this work to support his family. I really appreciate that about my dad.” It is a sight to see that even with his busy schedule and heavy workloads Dr. Calingo never failed to be a husband to his wife, when Ms. Arienne mentioned that whenever they stay within the US Dr. Calingo would send his wife roses. “When we were in the US, we had a lot of roses. When they would bloom, he would get some and put them in a vase. Once in a while, he would surprise mom with a dinner and movie date. He would sing and play the guitar for my mom, including “How Can I Tell You” by Cat Stevens, and “Deep in My Heart,” “A Love to Last a Lifetime,” and “Refrain” by Jose Mari Chan.”
Even with his last breath, Dr. Calingo remained committed to his duty and responsibility of being the University President even when faced with maladies. Still, with his top priorities in mind, Holy Angel University remained as one of these. Ms. Arienne mentioned that “What I tell you is that in the last months of his life, up until his last breath he was always thinking about Holy Angel. When my mother got a call from him saying that he wanted to go to the hospital, and when she dropped him off, she noticed that he was taking his laptop and my mom was like why are you taking your laptop and he's going to the hospital and he said, he replied that I need to communicate with my colleagues at Holy Angel.
Even when he was sick, when he was in pain, he wanted to continue his work with Holy Angel and I think his commitment was something that was very genuine and he worked with humility and with purpose. 37
Good leaders always have this dazzling power, the zeal for change, and most importantly, the ability to change their insights on those things that really need attention and make way for improvement turning their visions into reality. We always associate the word “leader” as someone who is influential and has the power and the authority to lead, but behind these curtains are countless numbers of adjectives.
It can be a loving, kind, supportive, and understanding father, or a romantic, sweet, and loyal husband that is full of surprises which can best describe what truly a leader is. It is indeed with a heavy heart that we lost a great leader within our University, but his works will continue and will always remain present within our minds not just as the HAU President, but also as a father and a husband.
Dr. Calingo, Your existence, and service are reflected well within the HAU community, and your legacy will continue in myriad ways.
38
Dear Me
by Lady Ann Sheirina Carlos
39
I know you keep on asking yourself this question? "Did I make it?"
Do you remember when you first stepped foot inside the University? You were so nervous that you heard nothing except your loud heartbeats.
Do you remember your first clinical duty? You were so afraid to enter your patient's room. You were afraid to mess things up on your first patient that you cried right after you stepped out of the room. Finally, you're at ease.
Do you remember crying in the hallways of MGN because you were so tired, mentally and physically?
Do you remember posting all the drugs' names on your bedroom wall? But still, you cannot memorize their names?
Do you remember when everything seems uncertain? You kept going, and you did not stop. I'm so proud of you!
You leap strongly on every hurdle you face along the way. Every successful leap, you come out stronger and wiser.
You did not let anything stop you even when everything around you seemed like falling. Even when nothing seems to go your way, you kept your trust and fought.
You always remind yourself of this line said by someone close to your heart " Never give up on the dream you've been chasing for almost half of your life."
Now your "someday" turned to "finally" at last.
I'm so proud of you! And now, to answer your question, "did I make it?"
Yes! You made it! We made it!
From Yourself, (RN) (RMT) (RRT) 40
RISE THE LIFELINE