The Students' Herald Vol. XXXII Issue no. 1

June 2023 - November 2023 | Vol. XXXII Issue No. 1

Ex-CJ Sereno Holds Good Governance Seminar at PHINMAUPang

Student Leaders Across PHINMA Education Network Attended 5th PSLS in Iloilo

By Isshael Espiritu

By Jasmine Bernadette R. Bembo

NEWS | p3

DEVCOMM | p

DAGUPAN CITY — Former Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno paid a visit to PHINMA-University of Pangasinan and offered a seminar onSeptember 27, 2023 as part of the Siyak Ya Mismo seminar series.

Student Leaders from nine PHINMA Education universities participated in the 5th PHINMA Education Student Leader Summit hosted by PHINMA University of Iloilo last November 15 to 17, 2023.

PHINMA-University of Pangasinan, both from Dagupan and Urdaneta campuses, along with 8 other PHINMA Education schools attended the 5th PHINMA Education Student Leader Summit that was hosted by PHINMA-University of Iloilo.

With the continuation of the 5th PSLS in 2023 due to its halt because of the pandemic, 61 student leaders from PHINMA-University of Pangasinan, PHINMA-Saint Jude College in Manila, PHINMA-Republican College-

Sereno tackled national issues and laws about sovereignty. Good governance was also given emphasis. An open fora with representatives was also done — people representing various sectors such as the PHINMA-UPang faculty took part in asking questions about the discussion.

PHINMA-UPang College of Urdaneta (PUCU) has also participated in the seminar.

Learning materials were provided at the end of the session through a QR code on the same scope as Sereno discussed – religion, laws, good governance, and so on.

PHINMAUPang Aids Aspiring SK Candidates Through MLOB Gabay Lakbay Program

By Trisha

The PHINMA University of Pangasinan took a significant stride towards fostering leadership and civic engagement among youth by hosting its first ever MLOB Gabay-Lakbay event on October 9, 2023, at the university gymnasium.

The program aims to provide guidance and support to aspiring Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) candidates in the upcoming elections.

The MLOB Gabay Lakbay program brought together over 300 aspiring SK candidates from various colleges and programs within the University of Pangasinan.

NEWS | UPang Aids... p4

NEWS | Student Leaders... p4

Dust until dusk. Vendors tend to their small businesses amidst the road rehabilitation in Dagupan City.

Photo by Denisse Brillante

Life along the Sidewalk Jasmine Bernadette R. Bembo

Running a business comes with different reasons among business-minded people. Their reasons run deeper, for money, yes, but with this money, they can provide for their family.

Along the streets of AB Fernandez Avenue stands vendors that sell products ranging from bracelets, face masks, cologne, and even fruits. They stayed on the sidewalk and endured the heat and dust just to sell their products and earn their products’ worth. With the recent road construction for the Flood Mitigation Project, a few things changed in their business.

DEVELOPMENT COMMUNICATION | p8

SPEED-UP Makes it to Diliman Debating Pre-ABP Top 4 Teams

By Isshael Espiritu

DAGUPAN CITY — Matthew Tinamisan of PHINMA-University of Pangasinan Speech and Debate Guild (SPEED-UP), in a composite team with Lorenz De Claro of San Beda Debate Society, bagged a place at the Novice Grand Finals of Diliman Debating Pre-ABP Tournament 2023 on September 2023.

“To be honest, I only joined this competition because I saw that David Africa would be one of the Adj. Core, and of course, as a devoted member of the David Africa Fan Association,” joked Tinamisan in a Facebook post of gratitude.

Chief Adjudicators include Luigi Alcaneses, David Africa, Banum Sabai, and Ellie Stephenson, all from various universities around the world.

The Diliman Debating Pre-ABP hosts various schools from other countries, with PHINMA-UPang being one of the few Philippine schools who took part.

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TRUTH ABOVE ALL

NEWS

EDITORIAL

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June 2023 - November 2023 | Vol. XXXII Issue No. 1

DRAINAGE NG ENERGY: Ang Flood Mitigation Project ng Lungsod

PHINMA-UPang Students Shine in IECEP Quiz Show and Math Olympiad Mark Daniel L. Barcelona Students from PHINMA- University of Pangasinan (PHINMA-UPang) proved their instructional excellence in the 8th Interscholastic Quiz Show and 2nd Math Olympiad prepared by way of the Institute of Electronics Engineers of the Philippines (IECEP) on October 7, 2023 at the Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation.

The Math Olympiad crew, composed of John Carlo Godisan, Nikko H. Valle, and Shedrich Menard Viray, emerged as the champion amongst 5 participating colleges. They solved tough troubles in algebra, geometry, trigonometry, calculus, and facts, and proven their abilities in logical reasoning and vital thinking.

The group became composed after numerous eliminations within the school based first. Their preparation become in depth as what Engr. Fermar, their coach told in an interview. They train as just like the set-up inside the competition right- this is to make the members acquainted within the competition proper.

“The key to win is of course the commitment, the right attitude and working under pressure”

Engr. Fermar added. This strategy made them to clinch their award.

The LUPANG Electronics Interscholastic Quiz Show group, composed of Tiffany Bulatao, Allessandra Cacho, Mae Ann C Junio, KC Alexandrea Cabrito, Daryl Hannah A Surat, and Blessy Teodoro, bagged the first runner-up award among 5 collaborating colleges. They responded questions on electronics engineering subjects, along with circuits, signals, structures, gadgets, and communications.

The competing students were coached by using Fermar Fajardo, Peter Benjamin Obiano, and Jayson Vinluan, who're faculty members of the College of Engineering and Architecture. They expressed their pride and gratitude to their students for bringing honor to the school and for displaying their ardour for gaining knowledge of.

The IECEP Quiz Show and Math Olympiad is an annual event that goals to sell educational excellence and camaraderie among electronics engineering college students in the region. It additionally serves as a venue for college students to showcase their competencies and potentials inside the subject of electronics engineering and mathematics.

Sa kabila ng hirap, meron din namang makukuha na kaginhawaan.

Bawa't padyak ng kanilang makintab na itim na sapatos ay ilang beses na pagmura dahil sa hassle ng daanan patungo dito. 'E grabe naman kasi ang taas ng drainage system na ginagawa rito, hanggang dibdib na ata kumpara sa dati.

Hindi sa tumututol sa progreso ng bayan, pero sobrang laki naman ang gagawing sakripisyo nila para lang makapunta sa kanilang kampus.

Ayung alikabok at mga buhangin na nilalagay para tumaas ang kalsada ‘e para ngang press powder na kumapit sa pawisin mong mukha.

Ngayon, nakasarado na ang gate sa may Arellano at binuksan na ang gate sa may bandang Pantal, ganyon na rin upang hindi mahirapan ang mga estudyante sa pagpunta sa main gate.

Pero habang tumatagal ang road construction sa Arellano ay sinimulan na rin nila ang pagayos ng kalsada sa AB Fernandez Avenue, dagdag hirap nanaman ito sa mga estudyante ng UPang.

Hindi lang naman ang mga estudyante ang magpapakahirap, andyan na rin ang mga business sa gilid ng kalsada, kalahati na nga lang ng pwesto nila

ang nakikita, ang dami na rin nagsisialisan na business, yung Jollibee at Pandayan nga sa may junction ay nag-sara na.

Progreso o Regreso Noon ika-14 ng Setyembre taong 2023, nagkaroon pa sila ng meeting upang pagusapan pag-reconstituted ng Flood Mitigation Commission.

Sa executive Order No. 14 series of 2023, inayos ni Mayor Fernandez and Dagupan City Flood Mitigation Commission para mabantayan ng mabuti ang pag-ayos ng kalsada at kanal ng Dagupan City.

Ang layunin ng meeting na ito ay bagohin at patatagin ang plano ng FMC sa problema sa Dagupan ito ang mga ongoing drainage system sa mga major thoroughfares, masterplan ng flood control, kompleto atongoing projects sa may Sinucalan River, pag-protekta sa mga ilog, proposed masterplan para sa Sinucalan River, proposed dredging map ng Pantal River na galing sa Pamahalaang Panlalawigan ng Pangasinan, at mga proposed projects ng Lokal na Pamahalaan ng Dagupan City.

Wow! Oo progreso ang layunin nitong Drainage Mitigation Project, hindi man halata pero ito ang nais nilang mangyari para sa bayan. Ito na rin ang proyekto para maiwasan na ang malalang baha na nararanasan sa Dagupan, matagal na itong proble-

ma at, kung sakali man, itong proyektong ang magbibigay ng paraan upang hindi na bahain sa lungsod ng Dagupan. Pero bakit parang may mali? Hindi sa ayaw ng mga mamamayan ng Dagupan sa progreso pero mukhang mahirap pa ang patutunguhan ng mga tao bago nila maranasan ang walang bahang lungsod.

Minsan akala na lamang ng mga estudyante ay nasa desyerto sila sa sobrang kapal ng alikabok sa may Arellano, M.H Del Pillar at mas lalo na sa AB Fernandez Avenue, sa paglakad nila sa sidewalk ay malalanghap nila ang usok na nagmumula sa traffic at ang alikabok na galing sa lupa na itinabon nila sa may kalsada.

Konting tiis, ito ang isip ng mga iba, konting tiis na lang matatapos na ito, pero gaano ba kahaba ang pasensya ng mga tao?

Para sa Kinabukasan Yung iba ang sabi pa nila walang karapatan tumutol o magsalita tungkol sa road construction na nangyayari kasi magiging maganda naman ang finish product nun, e para silang epal minsan kasi bakit titikom ang mga bibig ng tao tapos mag-OO na lang palagi? Syempre kailangan ng mga tao na bumoses tungkol sa Flood Mitigation Project dahil sila ang maapektuhan nito kung naging palpak la-

mang. Hindi naman nila pinapangarap na pumalpak ito bagkus mas gusto nila na masgalingan at isipin ng gobyerno ang magiging resulta ng proyekto nila dahil matagal nanaman bago magkaroon ng proyekto para sa pagbabago at progreso.

Ang mga proyektong ginagawa ng gobyerno ay para sa mga mamamayam, pero anong gagawin ng mga tao kung ang mismong proyekto ay makakasira sa mga buhay nila? Malamang kailangan na magsalita dahil ang hindi iimik ay uuwing talunan.

Pero sa tagal ng construction, mapapaisip ka na lang na sa susunod na mga taon mawawala na talaga ang pagbaha sa lungsod, hindi na mahihirapan ang mga estudyante na pumasok sa kanilang mga paaralan at wala na ring masyadong traffic. Maganda umasa sa maliwanag na kinabukasan, parang ito na lang kasi ang kailangan isipin at hindi ang inis na nararamdaman ng mga estudyante kapag late na nga, traffic pa, mas maaga talagang makakapasok sa second period.

Sa kabila ng hirap, meron din namang makukuha na kaginhawaan. Parang ‘You win some, you lose some’ na lang talaga ang magiging asal ng mga tao.

Konting tiis, at kung kailangan pa nilang marinig ang mga boses ng mga mamamayan, huwag matakot magsalita, para sa kinabukasan.

Kyzea M. Simon Angeline L. Soriano Quency Gylle C. Cabral Shan Carlet R. Dacasin Trisha U. Batallones Angelo Melben B. Bautista

Jasmine Bernadette R. Bembo

Editor-in-Chief Neil Mark L. Galvez

Associate Editor

Writers

Denisse P. Brillante Roxan D. Rosuello

Denisse P. Brillante Tomas Galayugo II Mark Daniel L. Barcelona

News Editor

Photojournalist/ Layout Artist

Managing Editor

Kisly Moira R. Pera

Literary Editor Hannah Angeli F. Mendoza

Feature Editor Isshael S. Espiritu

Column Editor

PUBLICATION OBJECTIVE To empower the university dissemination of information with high-quality paractice of campus journalism through learning-by-doing under the principle of ethical press release.

Jemuel Jairus R. Gutierrez

Graphic Artist Clarenz Bien B. Magalong John David B. De Guzman

Layout Artist Miss Jolina Gamboa

Technical Adviser

FVR Library Records High Student Visits in 2023 Through Computer Logbook System Roxan D. Resuello PHINMA-University of Pangasinan students have set a high streak on library activity since the opening of A.Y 2023-2024, recording 17 743 visits from students, visitors, and faculty from June to October.

"Since the relaxation of social distancing measures, the library community has experienced a gradual resurgence, and now it can be described as fully revitalized. The library is consistently bustling with students who come in to study, complete assignments and coursework, and engage in collaborative activities.", head librarian, Ms. Armie Barbara Sabiniano, says.

In April 2023, the library launched the computer log-in system, which utilizes Google Forms to collect data on library user attendance by recording students' names, student numbers, college departments, years, and programs before entry to the facility.

The College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA) leads the highest library attendance with 4 183 visits and no less than 250 recorded students monthly. The university's Allied Health and Sciences Department (CAHS) follows second with 3 730 logs. College of Management and Accounting (CMA) comes third with 3 377. Meanwhile, 3 167 freshmen from the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) visited the library during the first five months of their tertiary education. Students from the College of Education and Liberal Arts (CELA) record 1 207 library user attendance. 807 and 370 for the College of Information Technology Education (CITE) and College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE), respectively.

Aside from tertiary students, the library has also welcomed students from the Senior High School Department, School of Grad-

uate and Professional Studies, College of Law, SOG, and faculty, among others.

In an interview with Ms. Sabiniano, she says that the computer log-in system has helped the library manage itself efficiently.

"Previously, the library relied on manual logbooks for attendance, which was time-consuming and prone to errors. Transitioning to an online attendance system offers numerous benefits, including error reduction, real-time tracking, convenience, accessibility, automation, compliance, and customization.

This shift streamlines operations, saves time, and enhances transparency for librarians, facilitating efficient maintenance and record-keeping of user statistics.", Ms. Sabiniano stated.

The library has also offered online services for borrowing and scanning a book, library card application, and even book journal recommendations long before the logbook system rolled out.

"The library's plan is to fully automate its services and prioritize student-centered offerings. The recently launched online services are just the beginning of this automation effort, which has yet to reach its full potential. It would be beneficial for the administration to support this library automation project by approving the acquisition of additional facilities, library systems, and databases."

When asked about future developments, such as an online seat and table reservation, Ms. Sabiniano answered that the library's chair/table-to-student ratio is insufficient and needs to be improved to cover such a project.

"Once the library is adequately furnished with proper ventilation, discussion rooms, study carrels, and additional seating, online seat reservation may become necessary.

However, for now, the library will remain open to all."

Trained to solve. PHINMA-UPang students recieved certificates among collaborating colleges at Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation on October 7, 2023.

Photo from Kim William B. Valoria Facebook Post

UPang MedTech Quiz Bee Team Made Another Winning History in National MedTech Quiz Show Neil Galvez Among 51 college school participants, PHINMA-UPang MedTech quiz bee team achieves new remarkable success, clinches 2nd place in the 42nd PAMET-PASMETH Inter-school quiz competition show on September 22, 2023.

In celebration of the 51st Medical Technology Week, with the theme “Navigating the Future of Medical Technology with Cohesive Collaboration and Transparency“, PAMETH-PASMETH organized the quiz bee competition held at Our Lady of Fatima University-Valenzuela City where various schools from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao participated and showcased their utmost wits in representing their respective school's names. San Pedro Collage placed 1st spot followed by Phinma-UPang, placing OLFU (Our Lady of Fatima) Antipolo as 3rd.

When asked Professor Ian Kit E. Bautista, RMT, if this is the highest place that Team UPang got in the MedTech Quiz Bee history, Coach Bautista said, “Yes, that's our highest placement. We have been 2nd place at the National Level twice. This year and also during the 2019 National Quiz show.”

When asked what made the 2023 team special, Coach Bautista answered, “What makes it unique is the amount of preparation. Unlike the other years I have coached, I did not train them face-toface before the quiz show since they were on duty in Manila. It really presented a huge challenge to us.

Praise God because even though we were underprepared overall, the children were so innately very good that they overcame the lack of preparation.”

Mark Anthony O. Idio, one of Team Flames' participants, detailed some of his experiences preparing for the prestigious event in the MedTech society. According to him, “To emerge victorious in

this prestigious event has proved that the University of Pangasinan can definitely provide quality education, especially in the MedTech program and can keep up with the big schools.”

“As early as July, our department head, Dr. Hannah A. Balanon, had officially selected three quizzers to represent our school, and being chosen as participants was like having a double-edged sword bestowed upon us — the joyful moment as we carry the name of our school and the pressure that comes with it. During the peak of our preparation, we were having our internship at AFP Health Service Command, so the struggle was real, not to mention our differing duty schedule which only added to the hassle. To compensate for that, our team agreed to still find time to study in our dorm even after a tiring day at the hospital. There were even instances that we’d bring reviewers during those “nontoxic” moments on our duty. It was such a tremendous load on our shoulders,” Idio expressed.

Idio and his winning team also added that during the crucial round, nevertheless, being part of the national competition was already an incredible opportunity and a great privilege for them, before realizing that they were in the top 2, this made a special momentum between the three of them where a surge of emotions filled them, bursting through grateful tears, and smiles.

Mark Anthony O. Idio, Beverly S. Benitez, and Kyssel G. Decano, under the coaching of Sir Ian Kit E. Bautista and Dr. Robert U. Manansala III, took their awards and recognitions on the same day of the event. The coaches behind the winning teams will start to prepare the new batch of team and promised to improve their trainings, making the review sessions more inclusive for other students.

Growing visits, expanding statistics. PHINMA-UPang Dagupan campus' logbook system stationed library records rise in visits since A.Y. 2023-2024.

Photo by Denisse Brillante

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Father Hernan Caronongan, delivering the second talk for the program, took the opportunity to remind the participants of their responsibility towards their communities. He urged them to embody the change they wished to see in society.

The highlight of the event was the closing message delivered by Archbishop Socrates Villegas, a revered figure in the community. He underscored the sacred nature of serving the community with honesty and sincerity, proclaiming, "Ang paglilingkod sa bayan nang tapat at totoo ay paglilingkod sa Diyos" (Serving the nation with honesty and truth is serving God).

Following the sessions and workshops, an open forum provided a platform for participants to engage with the speakers, ask questions, and share their insights. This interactive segment allowed for a dynamic exchange of ideas, fostering a sense of community and collaboration among the aspiring SK candidates.

As the event concluded, participants were encouraged to apply the knowledge gained from the MLOB Gabay-Lakbay in their communities and to actively pursue their aspirations of becoming SK leaders. The program is a testament to UPang’s commitment to youth empowerment and community development, and dedication to molding lleaders with a deep sense of civic duty and spiritual integrity.

Fostering leadership among youth. PHINMA-UPang arranged MLOB Gabay Lakbay Program for aspiring SK Candidates on October 9, 2023.

Photo from Sir Adele Traspe Facebook Page

PHINMA- UPang Leads Brigada Eskwela 2023 with Commitment to Community Welfare

UPSTO Successfully Earns Prestigious UNESCO AcCreditation Neil Mark L. Galvez

Quency Gylle C. Cabral

Towards sustainable student leadership excellence, University of Pangasinan Student Teachers Organization (UPSTO) paved the way as one of the accreditee of UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) Clubs Philippines on December 9—11, 2023.

Service as commitment. PHINMA-UPang leads Brigada Eskwela 2023 from August 22-23, 2023.

Photo by Tomas Galayugo

In a resounding testament to their decade-long commitment to community service, PHINMA University of Pangasinan is set to lead the Brigada Eskwela 2023, continuing their mission to make lives better beyond the classroom walls.

The university, renowned for its educational excellence, has been actively involved in uplifting communities, aiding students, teachers, and contributing to environmental conservation.

Over the past 10 years, PHINMA has made a significant impact, extending a helping hand to no less than 10,907 students and 247 teachers from public schools.

Their dedication extends to the environment, with the planting of no fewer than 280 native trees, showcasing a holistic approach to community development.

Last year, the university mobilized over 800 volunteers from the PHINMA Group for Brigada Eskwela, a nationwide initiative aimed at preparing public schools for the upcoming academic year. The event brings together individuals from various sectors to engage in activities such as cleaning, repairing, and beautifying school facilities. This year, PHINMA sets a goal of 1,500 Brigada volunteers, aiming to surpass the impact created in previous years.

Albert L. Gamboa, Chief Operating

Officer of PHINMA University of Pangasinan, expressed the institution's unwavering commitment to community welfare. "This is something that we really wanted to do every single year. More than what we do in the classrooms, we want to make sure that we go out. The philosophy of Upang is to accompany and not just for our students, but for everyone around us," he stated.

Gamboa emphasized that their commitment goes beyond the confines of the university, reaching out to the entire community of Dagupan City, Urdaneta City, Pangasinan, and the entire country. "We are committed to helping out the people of Dagupan, and it's not limited to the students who were enrolled in Upang. It's extended to the whole community," he affirmed.

The PHINMA University of Pangasinan Brigada Eskwela 2023 is scheduled for August 22-23, 2023. On August 22, volunteers will converge at Dagupan City National High School, and on August 23, the initiative will move to Urdaneta City National High School. This two-day event is anticipated to not only enhance the physical infrastructure of the schools but also foster a sense of community spirit and collaboration.

As PHINMA University of Pangasinan leads the charge, their commitment to making lives better remains at the forefront of their mission, exemplifying the transformative power of education and community engagement.

Soaring higher. University of Pangasinan Student Teachers Organization attended as accreditee in International Assembly Youth for UNESCO 2023 on December 9-11, 2023.

Photo from UPSTO Facebook Page

When asked about his participation in the 5th PSLS, Mr. Ricardo V. Terrado Jr., the Vice President of PHINMA-UPang Supreme Student Council said that his participation as a student leader of PHINMA-UPang revealed the resonance among student leaders functioning similarly. “Creating positive pathways, whether on campus or in the

community, becomes more attainable when aligned with individuals sharing identical positions and mindsets, this synergy not only aids in achieving goals but also empowers us to aim higher through critical thinking in various situations,” he said.

Terrado notes that the significant lesson he learned from the summit is “Sarili Para

Spreading excellence across colleges. PHINMA-University of Iloilo hosted PHINMA Education Leadership Summit on November 15-17, 2023.

Photo by Jasmine Bernadette Bembo

sa Bayan” where students have the power to change the world collectively and be the catalysts for change in our country. His shared desire to create a positive change can be manifested in collaborative efforts with the other student leaders to drive their mission and vision in taking a step forward for themselves and the betterment of of the communities they serve.

A significant lesson from the 5th PSLS was "Sarili Para sa Bayan" - the understanding that each of us has a purpose in this world and that collectively, we can be catalysts for change. Our shared desire for positive change can be realized through collaborative efforts, driving our mission and vision forward for ourselves and the communities we serve.

With the end of the Summit, a new force is created, Innovative and Integrated Student Alliance is created through the cultivation of unity among student leaders across the PHINMA Education Network from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. IISA members of each school have advocacy to uphold and will stir change to make the lives of others better. Two student leaders from PHINMA-UPang, Mr. Terrado and Mr. Oliver B. Tumang, governor of the College of Engineering and Architecture Student Council, each advocate for Social Justice and Waste Management respectively while Mr. Robert Louise R. Gabiola, the governor of College of Arts and Sciences Student Council, is the representative for PHINMA-UPang.

As announced, in 2024, PHINMA-University of Pangasinan will host the 6th PHINMA Education Student Leaders’ Summit and also celebrate its 100th anniversary of the university.

Student leaders from nationwide gathered in the International Assembly of Youth for UNESCO 2023 at Manila Opera Grand Hotel in which various clubs were recognized, participated in other exciting activities, and discussed different sustainable development goals that were aligned with the program that would later contribute in helping and achieving their significant purpose by the end of 2030.

According to John Aldrin M. Balazon, UPSTO President, they were the first student organization in Phinma-UPang to be accredited by UNESCO Club Philippines. “We are given the opportunity to influence our constituents about the programs of UNESCO like quality education and lifelong learning that is aligned with our organization’s mission and vision, and of course, our own institution,” he said.

During the process, Pres. Balazon also mentioned that the process to be one of the UNESCO Clubs was very rigid, as it requires 3 levels of accreditation interview in which every step is getting further harder. He also expressed, “But one thing's for sure is that our advisers, Mr. Mahrionne Luis B. Revilla and Ms. Charmee Rae P. Velasco, are always there to support us and always remind us to stick to and uphold our organization’s mission and vision because it is the reason why we want to be accredited in the

first place.”

According to him, there were a lot of participants nationwide who wished to be one of the UNESCO Clubs, but only 82 were officially accredited.

“I am proud to say that there are 3 UNESCO Clubs from Pangasinan and one of them is UPSTO,” he added with pride.

Noreen Irish S. Bautista, UPSTO Secretary, also shared her highlights from the event, expressing, “Being one of the participants in the Y4U event made me feel so honored — it was really enlightening to observe the accreditation and other activities that happened. I digested so much learnings from a variety of speakers, making every moment a pearl of wisdom. It was an unforgettable experience!”

When asked what could be improved through the process, she replied, “If there was anything that could be done better, I would like to see better information made available to everyone, myself included, on the event schedule and better communication about it. Overall, I absolutely liked the experience there and I would love to attend the next Y4U event. So, I say, let's make waves for a better world!”

John Aldrin M. Balazon, Noreen Irish S. Bautista, Lester Kenneth A. Dioquino (BSED English Representative), and their adviser, Mr. Mahrionne Luis B. Revilla, formally received the recognition as UPSTO representatives.

Looking forward to more assemblies in the future, UPSTO will promote and conduct Sustainable Development Goal #4 — a quality education and lifelong learning through various events.

Bilang Estudyante, ano ang opinyon mo tungkol sa pagtaas ng drainage system na ginagawa ngayon sa Arellano Street na nagdulot sa pagsara ng Main Gate ng ating unibersidad?

NEWS | Student Leaders... p4 in Quezon City, PHINMA-Rizal College of Laguna, PHINMA-Union College of Laguna, PHINMA-Araullo University in Nueva Ecija, Southwestern University PHINMA in Cebu City, and PHINMA-Cagayan de Oro College along with PHINMA-University of Iloilo in Iloilo City attended the three-day itinerary of activities and immersive city tour from different places of Iloilo City.

The core objective of the summit is to instill in the students how to make the lives of others better, with activities that heed their active participation among peers, it is a must for the student leaders to think critically about what they can change and what must change as a group and as an individual.

In his message, Mr. Chito B. Salazar, the Chief Executive Officer of PHINMA Education, emphasized the importance of the student and labor force as a key to change. “You need to want to change the world in order to change anything.” Mr. Salazar said on the first day of the summit.

He encouraged student leaders to have the serenity to know what they cannot change, the courage to know what they can change, and the wisdom to know the difference as united students can have a powerful impact on making the lives of others better.

Mr. Christopher A. Tan, the Country Head of PHINMA Education Philippines also said in his message that students should help in creating good memories so that these memories can persist in the future. “The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet.” He said, highlighting that student leaders should look between the lines so that they will know where the structural injustice it and to make a move on improving the lives it affected.

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June 2023 - November 2023 | Vol. XXXII Issue No. 1

June 2023 - November 2023 | Vol. XXXII Issue No. 1

NEWS | UPang Aids... p1 The program was carefully designed to provide participants with insights into effective leadership, community development, and the responsibilities that come with public service.

The event kicked off with an inspiring opening ceremony featuring Mr. Adele Traspe. He emphasized the meaning of the program “Making the Lives of Others Better” and the importance of youth involvement in shaping the future of their own respective barangays.

The University of Pangasinan’s gymnasium was transformed into a hub of learning and inspiration as participants actively participated in team-building activities, group discussions, and hands-on exercises aimed at honing their leadership abilities. Topics covered included good governance, ethical leadership, and the legal aspects of being an SK official.

A notable aspect of the MLOB Gabay-Lakbay was the active participation of the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV). Their involvement added a layer of civic responsibility and electoral awareness to the event. PPCRV representatives conducted sessions on the importance of fair and transparent elections, encouraging the aspiring SK candidates to uphold the principles of integrity and good governance.

NEWS

NEWS

dation ng PUV's. So, mas malapit pag pumapasok.

—Makie Escoto, CITE For me, I think it will be harder for the students to enter the campus once it's finished. Yes, it will be useful in the rainy season to prevent flooding. But maybe it will take a toll not only on our university but also on the affected areas of the elevated drainage system. But still, I am glad that the University is creating solutions to this concern to help the university itself and especially its students.

—Trix Gallego, CAS For me, hassle yung pagsara ng main gate since printing service tapos yung sakayan-babaan namin is near area ng arellano. Regarding naman dun sa drainage system, may other way naman sana siguro to reduce flooding, kasi from what we are currently seeing kahit na nakataas na yung ibang part, binabaha pa rin talaga and worse is that damay yung hindi pa naisabay na itaas na part ng kalsada since doon umaagos tubig.

—Gemica Balolong, CAHS I agree to the elevation project, yet I think they overdid the height. We need a better drainage for the streets but the businesses surrounding Metro Dagupan will have a hard time coping. About yung main gate, medyo biased opinion ko... it was a blessing for me since i live in pantal which doesn't get accommo-

Hindi epektibo ang agarang pagpapataas nila ng drainage system sa Dagupan City. Lalo na’t hindi nagkaroon ng pakikipag ugnayan ang city engineer’s office sa ating Unibersidad kung kaya’t ito’y nagdulot ng matinding perwisyo sa mga estudyante. Marami ang doble-doble ang nagiging pamasahe para makarating lamang sa kanya-kanyang destinasyon at ito’y malaking bawas sa lingguhang allowance. Sa makatuwid isang malaking perwisyo ang pagtaas ng drainage system sa pang-araw-araw na buhay ng isang studyante and mga trabahante.

—Ferdinand Pangan Jr., CEA Para sakin at sa experience kodin last time na dumaan ako don.

Medyo hassle sya kasi nga imbes maayos yung daanan is nag caucause sya nang abirya, ganon din sa daanan sa main gate! Imbes na maikli lang yung oras na gagamitin para sa pag pasok nang school eh mapipilitan pa tayong dumaan sa likod.

Pero yung about sa drainage is goods naman alam naman nating lahat na bahain ang dagupan at mas kailangan natin nang mga bagong at kalidad na daanan nang tubig. Pero ayun nga may kaakibat din syang disadvantaged kung ikaw ay isa pa lamang na studyante.

—Anthony, CCJE

I am open and willing to wait sa result kung magiging effective nga ba ang solution sa baha ng LGU ng Dagupan City. That's why kahit na mas hassle ang byahe at pag pasok dahil sa mas mabagal na traffic at mas malayong entrance ng university, I will wait na matapos ang construction dahil nasimulan na ito at kailangan nalang natin hintayin ang results kung magiging long run solution ito or something else.

—Kyle De Vera, CMA Hindi naging madali at mas naging hassle para sa isang commuter na estudyanteng tulad ko, lumayo ang distansya papunta sa ating unibersidad at tila malayo rin ito sa mga establishimento. Bukod dito dahil sa pagtaas ng drainage system mas lumala pa ang trapiko sa daanan at kung iisipin natin hindi man magiging baha sa nasabing street ngunit mag kakaroon ng negatibong epekto sa mga establisyemento, schools at mga negosyo sa gilid ng daanan, dahil sila ang mag hihirap sa nasabing baha kung may mga bagyo mang dumating.

—Alex, CCJE Honestly speaking, stressful siya. Imbes na short lang ‘yong lalakarin mo papuntang campus, napahaba dahil sa ongoing construction. And during rush hours, grabe ‘yong traffic—super nakaka-drain sa aming mga commuter. Sana talaga matapos na kasi kawawa rin kaming mga student.

—Jeya De Vera, CEA

Bilang estudyante, nakikita ko ito bilang positibo at negatibo. Positibo sa paraang ang layunin naman nila sa pagpapataas ng drainage system ay para sa ikabubuti ng mga tao sa Dagupan City dahil madalas ang pagbaha roon. Negatibo dahil malaki ang naging at magiging epekto nito sa mga negosyante sa harap ng UPang na maaaring magbaba sa ekonomiya ng lungsod ng Dagupan.

Malaki rin ang binibigay nitong abala sa mga estudyante. Hindi makapunta nang madali ang mga estudyante sa gusto nilang puntahan dahil sa pagsara ng entrance sa harap. Pati na rin sa mga nakadorm sa Arellano na ang layunin sa pagdodorm ay para sana malapit lang sila sa unibersidad ngunit dahil sarado ang entrance ay kailangan pa nilang umikot. Pati na rin ang pagdalas ng traffic lalo sa may bandang junction. Ngunit kung ako ang tatanungin, hindi ko gusto ang proyektong ito. Hindi maganda sa mata ng mga turista. Hindi maganda ang epekto sa mga negosyante at estudyante. Napapadalas ang traffic.

Wala akong nakikitang paraan para ito'y magustuhan. Marami pa naman sana sigurong ibang alternatibong paraan maliban dito.

—Russel Ivan Noe, 3rd year, BSN Para sa akin, hindi siya convenient sa nakakararami lalo na sa mga estudyante na nanggagaling sa malalayong lugar.

—Cedie, 2BSPHARMA Kung sa layunin nito, mabuti kung yuon ang solusyon

para maiwasan pag baha kasi bilang estudvante malaki din ang epekto ng baha sa atin. Subalit bilang estudyante rin sa proseso ng paggawa nito ay may epekto din tulad ng pag lala ng trapiko kapag papasok at uwi galing school, yung pollution na nagagawa nito sa paligid kasi syempre ma crompomise lalo yung air. And syempre maraming negosyo ang tumumal o nag sara dahil nalipat ang gate ng school so nalipat din kung saan maraming customer tulad ng mga karendirya. Pero may mga negosyo din naman ng lumago like yung mga eatery sa pinag lipatan ng gate.

—Daren, 3BSPHARMA (UPPSO President) Ang drainage system na isinasagawa sa arellano street ay maaaring magkaruon ng iba't-ibang layunin at benepisyo. Oo, ito'y idinisenyo upang pamahalaan ang pagtakbo ng tubig dahil sa kadalasang pagbaha sa lugar. Ngunit para sa aming estudyante ito ay nagdulot perwisyo dahil sa sobrang taas ng ginawang drainage system at napakatagal nang under construction na nag dudulot ng traffic at perwisyo di lamang sa amin, mga studyante ngunit pati narin sa mga taong dumadaan sa kalsadang ito. Ang disenyo at konstruksiyon ng sistema sa pag gawa ay naging aberya para sa lahat.

—Karl, 2BSPHARMA

OPINION

OPINION

6

June 2023 - November 2023 | Vol. XXXII Issue No. 1

June 2023 - November 2023 | Vol. XXXII Issue No. 1

mon but not normal occurrence? Yes. Kids being imposed a dreadful amount of pressure, in academics or general life-situations is a very common occurrence but not a normal one.

AI and its Threat to Media

Have you heard of Artificial Intelligence? It’s not really new but there are a few things to look out for when encountering AI.

S

upposedly, AI is being hired/used instead of an actual person.

Recently, GMA released the very first AI-generated sportscaster in the Philippines which shocked and angered people. Why hire AI over a person who uses their emotions and shows it in their tone of voice? One must realize that AI doesn’t really get tired or sick from speaking but it will only take an input of words for this AI to work. Maybe, not that easy but, really, an AI being hired? It’s not really new anymore.

MAIA and MARCO: AI-generated Sportscasters Maia and Marco were not the first AI-generated newscasters ever created. The very first official AI-generated newscaster is in China where XINHUA State News Agency made it to broadcast news 24/7 that comes from the Chinese government.

When you look at it, AI can be a ‘perfect’ broadcaster, with no stuttering, no breaks, no expensive salary given, only maintenance which means it is a very ‘cheap’ alternative to humans.

The realization that we are being replaced by machines should probably scare us but what more can we do but accept the future that we, ourselves, created?

We are seeking innovation, a very new gen-

eration leisurely and enjoying our lives that will be easy with this technology. Now, where does the line go between innovation and exploitation?

GMA also emphasizes that MAIA and MARCO are just presenters and are not journalists.

They also said that they will not replace broadcasters who have vast amounts of experience.

Bold steps towards the Future AI is definitely a bold step towards the future, the pros of AI are that it can be used as a tool and make a person’s work easy. Generating ideas, for example, can be fast and you can even modify it by adjusting just a few things and then done! You now have an idea made by a machine.

GMA’s bold choices lead to different tones of opinions but mostly, this move is insensitive to those people who pursue media, like me. Others always say that in the media, we can’t really find that much job so with these AI-generated sportscasters, it basically means our road is not paved that well. They are stuck to calling it innovative but it just sounds like they are cutting off branches and killing a masscom student’s dream to be a journalist in the future.

So what is innovation in newscasting? Is it replacing humans with their job in it and replacing them with AI-generated newscasters that can process

hundreds of information at once? Sounds a bit dystopian to me.

I understand that we must embrace the change, we must embrace the future, but how can I embrace a future where I will never live the dream that I have dreamed of?

A Beginning As much as I am against the use of Artificial Intelligence, it still proves itself useful. Yes, it can be used as a tool and generate ideas that I might not think of. Yes, it can point me to something useful and yes, it is indeed superior when it comes to efficiency.

But it still does not beat the emotions of getting a new idea by yourself when you were hopeless for hours, it still does not beat the arts crafted by human hands and their emotion, it does not beat the moment of mistakes that became a meme or an inside joke among your co-workers.

AI is indeed innovative but at the same time, it is being exploited and humans are the ones who end up getting the burn. Instead of that, why don’t we enhance AI and let it help us towards our bold step of the future instead of leaving the world of human creation behind?

Bukod dito ay bakit naman daw tayo makikialam, eh hindi naman tayo kasali sa hidwaan ng dalawang bansa? Hindi ito matibay na basehan upang hindi mabagabag sa mga nangyayari, matakot, at panghinaan ng loob dahil kumpara sa mga sibilyang araw-araw, oras-oras, at segu-segundong nakararanas ng higit pa sa takot — ano nga ba ang higit pa sa matinding kalungkutan at kamatayan? Ano nga ba ang pakiramdam ng maipit sa giyera, pagkaitan ng tubig, pagkain, kuryente, at gamot?

OPEN CEASEFIRE NOW Ang Kamalayan ay Pakikipabaka!

A

ng matagal na salungatan sa pagitan ng Palestine at Israel ay patuloy na pinagmumulan ng matinding pagdurusa para sa dalawang bansa, na nag-iiwan ng bakas ng malalim na pagdurusa, matinding pagkawasak at pagbagsak ng ekonimiya, at walang hanggang pagkawala ng mga inosenteng buhay na tumatanggal sa karapatang pantao.

Ang maiingay na pagkakalaban-laban ng mga kuru-kuro ay patuloy na kumakampana sa lahat ng direksyon kung saan ito mas malinaw na nakikita at nararamdaman. Ngunit paano nga ba ito titimbangin kung patuloy kang naniniwala sa ideya na digmaan at karahasan ang solusyon sa pananagutan? Ayon sa pinakahuling tala ng Euro-med Human Rights Monitor, ipinapalagay na 30,034 Palestinians na ang nasawi mula ika-7 ng Oktubre, 2023 — 11,833 dito ay mga bata.

Ayon sa ulat ng ABC News noong Nobyembre 10, 2023, “Batay sa European Commission, ang mga Palestino ay 'pinagkakaitan ng sapat na tirahan, ng access sa mga serbisyo habang kanilang kinahaharap ang sapilitang eviction at mga restriksyon sa pagkilos.'

"Sa Gaza, ang paulit-ulit na mga yugto ng hostilidad, mas matinding pagkakaiba-iba, at isang blockade ay lubos na pinalala ang kalagayan ng pamumuhay ng mga tao," ayon sa pahayag ng European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations sa kanilang website.

Ayon naman sa United Nations, 81% ng populasyon sa Gaza ay namumuhay

sa kahirapan; 63% ng mga mamamayan dito ay may problema sa kawalan ng sapat na pagkain. Ang patuloy na unemployment rate ay tumatanggi ng 46.6%, at ang access sa malinis na tubig at kuryente ay nananatiling hindi naaabot sa antas na 'krisis,' ayon sa pahayag ng ahensya."

Habang kasalukuyang nasasaksihan ng buong mundo ang patuloy at pinakabagong mga kabanata ng tila walang katapusang siklo ng genocide, may ilan pa rin ang tila nagiging apathetic sa ganitong uri ng sitwasyon dahilan sa kanilang mga pribilehiyo, ilang mga maling impormasyon o fake news, o hindi kaya'y sa paniniwala mula sa kanilang relihiyon.

Napakahalaga naman talagang kilalanin ang makasaysayang konteksto na pinagbabatayan ng matagal na tunggaliang ito, ngunit mas mahalagang magkaroon ng kahulugan ang pagkakaroon ng simpatya at pakikiramay para sa mga inosenteng taong naiipit ng kasalukuyang kaguluhang ito.

Hindi ito isang bagay na kailangang pagdebatihan sa ordinaryong araw o sa legal mang paraan. Dahil sa mga panahon ng pagsubok, ang pagkakaroon ng human decency ay bare minimum lamang. Ang hinihiling na ceasefire ay hindi dapat hinihingi at pinapakiusapan sa simula pa lamang dahil ang mga karapatan ng parehong mga Israeli at Palestinian na mamuhay sa kapayapaan at seguridad sa loob ng kinikilalang mga hangganan ay nararapat na pantay sa pagsasaalang-alang.

Posibleng may mga sasang-ayon na masyado ngang sensitibo ang paksang ito.

AI still does not beat the emotions of getting a new idea by yourself when you were hopeless for hours.

Ang pagkakaroon ng kamalayan ay isang uri ng represyon. Sa ika-isang daang araw ng patuloy na giyera na nangyayari sa pagitan ng Palestine at Israel, ang ating kamalayan lamang ang magdidikta kung anong uri at klase ng tao tayo sa mundo. Dahil naniniwala akong ang tunay na pag-unlad ay mangingibabaw lamang sa pamamagitan ng tunay na pagsisikap na tugunan ang karapatang pantao, itaguyod ang isang pananaw na inklusibo sa lahat at sa karapatang panrelihiyon.

Mas mahalagang magkaroon ng kahulugan ang pagkakaroon ng simpatya at pakikiramay para sa mga inosenteng taong naiipit ng kasalukuyang kaguluhang ito.

Drawing the Lines Where the Lines Should be R

eaching for one’s greatness is innate in every living individual in this world. Aspiring for a certain goal makes a human as human as possible. Powered by desires, wants, and dreams, we bask in this sun and dedicate to live each day in pursuit of success hoping that someday we can make our parents, the people who brought us into this world, feel a sense of pride and accomplishment for their young.

Reaching for greatness as a gift for parents have always been etched in the minds and hearts of every person who has ever experience being a kid.

Doing good and seeing a smile, hoping to hear the word “Congratulations”, is something that we all somehow craved for growing up.

Some people however, never learned to make themselves grow around the applause of others, more often than not, they tend to live for it and as sad of a thought as it can be, it is even sadder to think that the reason they subject themselves into too much pressure is because it is put onto them by the very people who should be their vessel for support.

A standard route? Should not be. A com-

People put themselves into heavy ordeals and try to achieve academic feats for the sake of compliance but often never because they wanted to.

A generational curse?

Just think about how many people are in a college program chosen for them by their parents.

How many people in this world embarks too hard on something they don’t enjoy but continue to do so because they are subjected to it? How many burn-out students continue to try too much because of unsettling high expectations from their elders? Surely, we don’t know the exact numbers, but how many times have we heard the same stories? How many times have we seen this plot on telenovelas and movies?

Many times. At this point, it could even be a generational curse passed down to us. A folklore of some sort. People put themselves into heavy ordeals and try to achieve academic feats for the sake of compliance but often never because they wanted to. As a result, they lose themselves and their self-identity trying to gain something they never wanted in the first place.

A socio-economic issue The socio-economic status of a family could also be the very root cause of why putting pressure on kids to achieve more than they can take is because of money. As a country with limited and top-ofthe-notch requirements to get working opportunities, graduating with a good academic background backing you up is a key to escaping poverty and establishing a good life. In a sense, pushing kids to achieve greatly is somehow translatable to securing them a good life. Although usually well-intentioned, pushing them over the top to the point of scarring them for life, is never a reasonable excuse.

Pushing your kids too hard will push them back a thousand-fold Strict parents often argue that putting pressure on kids is necessary to keep them working and aspiring for the best. “Diamonds are made under pressure,” they say. But is pressure really necessary?

7 Do we have to put our offsprings in a situation where they question themselves and their abilities when goals are unmet? Or would it be possible to choose to support them with positive reinforcements and moral affirmations to keep them grounded and sane?

Checking on your kid’s academic welfare every now and then and making sure they’re doing alright is great. However, being too uptight on their academics often do more bad than good. It takes a toll on the children’s mental health and might manifest into more serious issues. This is backed by a study conducted by Howard et al. (2019) where he investigated the linkages between authoritative parenting and academic success. Results showed that “parents who engage in overparenting, such as restricting autonomy and intrusiveness negatively impacted their students’ success in college. It interferes with the child's ability to develop a sense of autonomy or competence. It may undermine a child’s ability to take full credit for their accomplishments, resulting in lower self-esteem.”

However, on a separate study conducted

by Steinberg (1989) and Dehart (2004), it is stated that “Children who described their parents as treating them warmly, democratically, and firmly were more likely than their peers to develop positive attitudes and beliefs about their self-esteem, self-concept, and achievement. Consequently, these children are more likely to do better in school.”

Burning with passion or just burn-out?

It is without a doubt that a parent’s tender nourishment and comforting words nurtures a child to become a perfectly molded adult. It is understandable that parents only want the best for their kids. Still, sometimes we must let the children find their way to their dreams so they can become an accomplished adult without the emotional baggage of misplaced pressure that would burden their lives.

We can either have child burning with passion, success, and a light heart for what they want or a burn-out kid living a successful life with nothing but a heavy heart.

Expression is Not God’s, It’s Ours I

'll be generous enough to give you time to read that again.

It seems that most people simply cannot survive without ever having something (or someone) to look up to: whether it be the presence of loved ones, life events made to be a driving force to work hard and be glorified by others later, and successes that we yearn for and would lift up to the heavens once we receive them.

We grow up to believe that we were put in this earth as a gift—to our direct families, our friends, and the society we grow up around. A gift given by a supreme being, with talents that we display that sets us apart from the rest.

But this is far from the huge mass of land, sky, and sea that was made in 6 days. Far from a world whose blueprint should supposedly be from a thick book made by unknown scriptwriters from centuries past.

For we must remember that we were born with the ability to express.

But unfortunately, it is for this reason that one of us has been falsely incarcerated.

Introductio Amadeus: On The Third Day, They Rose Again In July of 2023, Amadeus Fernando Pagente, a drag performer more popularly known as Pura Luka Vega, performed a rock remix of “Ama Namin” at an improvised bar in Quezon City, in which clips of the performance quickly went viral. Orders for “persona non grata” (a title for someone who is unwelcome in a particular area) quickly came in for the artist from almost 20 different localities. And in October 4 that same year, they were arrested in Manila after being accused of blasphemy, but was eventually released on October 7th, 2023 after posting bail amounting to ₱72,000.

Injustice In Excelsis Here are things I’ve conceptualized about this for the longest time:

Religion is a choice We were born with it, but did we even want to be surrounded by such a concept? Our family and friends have been enough to support and shape us.

Not some deity we still fail to prove existed centuries ago. So with that being said, one can be free to abandon that religion once they find themselves capable of choosing for themselves.

Religion is merely a concept As I just said. Something we cannot see seems to know everything before it even happens.

Yet, we are also told that with hard work, perseverance, and a fortunate twist of fate will lead us to anywhere we ought to be. Coincidences and day-today circumstances are more real than thy word made flesh.

Separation Whoever said that we should be joined together through the grace of god when there are clearly things that are meant to be separated? Things such as people in deteriorating relationships, people who identify beyond the godly definition of man and woman and only seek to be where their truly heart is, and those whose beliefs are not necessarily needed in a particular situation, like in the case of Pura Luka Vega.

Expression is something we’re born with.

When we were infants, we only knew how to cry, make messes, break things more than fix them.

But no one ever really condemned us for even the slightest mistake, because we were simply “children.”

If religious people claim that everyone is a “child of god”, then wouldn’t the father be quite please with a child’s version of his teachings, knowing that he has known it by heart and is using his talents to spread that joy in the way they know best?

In the Queer Sense of the Word Contrary to common conservative beliefs, there is an acknowledged church worldwide that recognizes and celebrates the existence of LGBTQIA+ people who choose to maintain their faith in God without having to compromise their identity. In fact, there is a branch in the Philippines, the Open Table Metropolitan Community Church located in San Juan

City. And in an article written and published by the church’s head pastor, Reverend Joseph Tiu-San Jose, he gives his take on the Pura Luka Vega issue that has sparked my interest, and might even bewilder some others.

An excerpt from this article, entitled, “Jesus in Drag and Lip-Syncing” notes, “Let us be careful who and what we label as blasphemous or a heretic.

We are all blasphemers and heretics from someone’s point of view no matter how devout we are. Jesus himself was nailed to the cross both as a rebel against the empire and as a blasphemer who offended religious feelings and practices… …If Jesus is who Jesus is I don’t think he will be offended by some gay [guys] having fun in a bar lip-syncing the Lord’s prayer by a drag performer in a drag Jesus outfit and makeup more than the election of someone whose family plundered an entire nation and killed thousands of people who called them into account. Jesus would be more offended with bishops, priests, and Christian pastors who are silent with injustices and killings but who are hell-bent and will spend all effort and resources to continue the discrimination of LGBTQIA+ people.

Jesus would feel insulted with Christians praying in his name but do not care nor think about the pain, oppression, and suffering around them.” (https://opentablemcc.ph/blog/jesus-in-drag-and-lipsyncing/) Invictus: It is I Yes, my word is not law—it never was. My opinion platform is simply a privilege given to me to take charge of the way I so desire. After all, this exact concept is the very essence of what an opinion is.

Yes, I am not like Jesus who was able to turn water into wine or walk on the raging sea, but I know that like him, I, too have a voice. And I am determined to use it.

But to me, I know I seem to be in an image like his—someone put in this earth knowing that I can never please everyone, and has no intention of doing so. I know where I stand—in a world where one day, a coliseum might be built for me to speak my own version of the truth, and the next, I might be put back

before the audience to be stoned to death.

But with everything said and done, and if it might come down to this, then so be it. I would gladly be a martyr for the truth.

And it would be my greatest honor.

We grow up to believe that we were put in this earth as a gift—to our direct families, our friends, and the society we grow up around. A gift given by a supreme being, with talents that we display that sets us apart from the rest.

DEVCOMM

8

Sa Gilid ng Prayoridad

Life along the Sidewalk

Isinulat ni Neil Galvez

By Jasmine Bernadette R. Bembo

Running a business comes with different reasons among business-minded people. Their reasons run deeper, for money, yes, but with this money, they can provide for their family.

Along the streets of AB Fernandez Avenue stands vendors that sell products ranging from bracelets, face masks, cologne, and even fruits. They stayed on the sidewalk and endured the heat and dust just to sell their products and earn their products’ worth. With the recent road construction for the Flood Mitigation Project, a few things changed in their business.

When people think of business, they think of the establishments that will be affected by the road construction along AB Fernandez Avenue, where plans for the Flood Mitigation Project have been ongoing for almost half

a year.

The following paragraphs will be an insight of three individuals who are sidewalk vendors who have their business affected by the rising of the road and later on, the sidewalks.

Their participation is voluntary, and their names will not be mentioned in the post for them to stay anonymous

while one respondent gives their consent to post a picture but will not be named for their privacy.

LOSS OF PROFIT They do not and will never blame the progress of the city, they even encourage it in hopes that the flood problem to stop. But there are a few things that disappointed them, mainly the change in their profit compared to when the project did not start yet.

The first interviewee stated that it does affect them greatly in profit. Being a sidewalk vendor near AB Fernandez Avenue, their current profit runs from 400 pesos a day, and the second interviewee had a profit of 4,000 pesos before the construction and it significantly changed and stayed at half profit once the construction started.

When asked if they would change their location once the sidewalk construction happen, the three respondents stated that they will remain in their location and the only thing that will change is the height of the road.

All of them hope that their past profit will come back at some point when all the road constructions are done.

Their cases are similar to the other sidewalk vendors around AB Fernandez Avenue. The charge of unloading and loading commuters and the loss of parking spaces along the side of the road are the major causes of loss of profit.

Yes, there are students from PHINMA-UPang and other campuses that walk around the sidewalk to avoid the traffic but they still barely make any more money than before.

THEIR FEELINGS CHANGE

9

Marahil ay mga mga naging kaklase tayo sa kolehiyo na hindi natin magawang kalimutan; Na sa tuwing sila ay sumasagi sa ating isip, hindi natin maiwasang mapabuntong hininga dahil sa panghihinayang. Siguro nga ay mayroon silang matibay na dahilan. O maaaring sadyang nag-iba lamang sila ng prayoridad sa buhay, nawalan ng ganang magpatuloy, nagkasakit ng malubhang karamdaman, may inasikasong mahalagang oportunidad, o sadyang wala lang talaga silang pinansiyal na kakayahan.

ABOUT

The third respondent stated that she would never disagree with the city’s decision for progression.

She had been a sidewalk vendor at the tender age of 19 years old and as she was in her seventies already, she had witnessed different kinds of change in Dagupan City.

As she has lived in the city all her life, she experienced the progression of the city and encountered different projects of the government.

She does experience the impact of the Flood Mitigation Project on her business but it does not put anger in her heart rather it saddens her that she can only provide the half profit to her four grandchildren.

The hardship of being a street vendor in a progressing city is heavy. The uncertainties of their location and the uneven result of their profit continue to settle on their shoulder like a boulder, however, it does not make them stop providing for their families. Their sacrifices and hardship as a vendor do not lessen their love for their family. As long as they are alive and well, these three sidewalk vendors will never stop earning for their families.

PATIENCE IS A VIRTUE Progression is welcome for them, they do not mind it as it will benefit them in the end once the road construction on AB Fernandez Avenue is finished. Like somehow their wish for the completion of the construction is heard, the Department of Public Works and Highways of Dagupan City announced that the deadline date of the finished road construction will be March 15, 2023, for AB Fernandez Avenue, March 30, 2023, for Arellano Street, and April 15, 2024 for MH Del Pilar Street.

DA G

PRIBILEHIYO, TAGA-URI NG LIPUNAN

Hope for the completion is near, The private sector is also on board for the project completion as this project will be one of the countermeasures of the government to the flood problem of the city.

As the sidewalk vendors wait, talking to them about the changes might ready them for the progress of the construction, they are very in favor and nothing will make them say no as it will help them because they are also being affected by the flood, they just hope that the project will left its helping hands and continue to make a progress for the betterment of the city and the relief of its citizen.

U

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Hindi na bago sa mga estudyante ng PHINMA-UPANG ang makarinig ng mga ganitong uri ng dahilan. Mag-alok man ng panibagong scholarship ang eskuwelahan ay hindi pa rin nito mababago ang katotohanang pribilehiyo ang siyang umuuri sa lipunan. Habang tumataas ang halaga ng edukasyon — na siya ring sumasabay sa inflation rate sa bansa, patuloy rin ang pagtaas ng bilang ng mga estudyanteng nakokompromiso para limitahan ang kanilang hangarin at karapatang makakuha ang programang naaangkop sa kanilang kakayahan at kagustuhan.

Ayon sa isa sa mga naunang tala ng UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) noong 2021, mahigit trenta porsiyento (30%) ng mga pamilyang Pilipino ay umaasa sa mga pautang para maipaaral ang kanilang mga anak at mabigyan sila ng edukasyon. Ayon naman sa 2021 ulat ng INQUIRER.NET, “Sa kanilang 2021 Global Education Monitoring Report, sinabi ng Unesco na hindi bababa sa 36 porsiyento ng mga pamilyang Pilipino ang kailangang kumuha ng pautang o magkaroon ng utang para matustusan ang pag-aaral ng kanilang mga anak. Ang ulat ay iniharap sa Rewired Forum sa Dubai noong Disyembre 12. Ang ulat ng Unesco ay nagsabi na ang Pilipinas ang may pinakamataas na porsyento ng mga pamilyang nangungutang ng pera para sa edukasyon ng kanilang mga anak sa ilang mga bansang sinuri para sa ulat.”

PANGARAP BASE SA MATRIKULA Isa na ngang kauna-unahang tinitignang pasanin ng mga estudyanteng walang sapat na pribilehiyo ay ang magastos na matrikula. Ito ay malupit na katotohanang tila nakaukit na sa matigas na bato. Ang mga bayarin sa matrikula, kasama na ang mga karagdagang gastusin tulad ng mga aklat-aralin at materyales, ay pumipilit lamang sa marami na gumawa ng nakakabagbag-damdaming desisyon na pumili ng mas abot-kayang alternatibong programa — malayo sa kanilang may kakayahan na mas mapalawak pa ang kaalaman at kasanayan nila. Magbigay man ng scholarship ang ibang eskuwelahan para sa kanilang ay may ilan pa rin itong kapalit na mga mahihigpit na tuntunin at kundisyon na siya ring makaaapekto sa pinansiyal na kakayahan at akademikong paggnap ng mga estudyante.

NAKOMPROMISONG PANGARAP Hindi maitatangging sayang naman talaga kung hindi masusunod ang unang kurso ng mga estudyante na siyang bukambibig nila noong kumuha sila ng NCAE (National Career Assessment Examination). Para sa ilang estudyante, ang paghahangad ng isang pangarap na kurso ay nabibilang sa salik upang ialay ang mahalagang oras nila sa pagpasok bilang part-time worker — na kadalasa'y nauuwi pa sa gloripikasyon ng mga Pilipino sa halip na manawagan at humingi ng pananagutan sa gobyerno.

Dahil sa patuloy na mga pangyayaring ito, hindi nalalayo ang kuwento ng dalawang estudyante mula sa PHINMA-UPANG. Ayon kay Esang (hindi niya totoong pangalan), problema sa pamilya at pinansiyal ang kaniyang dahilan upang bitawan niya ang kursong Medikal at kumuha ito ng kursong Edukasyon.

Wala naman siyang pagsisisi dahil ayon sa kaniya, naiintindihan naman niya ang kaniyang magulang. Bukod sa limampung libong piso na matrikula sana niya sa kursong Medikal ay ang kaniyang ama lamang ang nagtataguyod sa para kanilang pamilya. “Kaya kung itutuloy ko pa 'yung Medical course ko, hindi na po nila

kakayanin; nag-aaral din po 'yung bunso kong kapatid kaya naiintindihan ko po ang parents ko sa naging desisyon nila kahit na malapit na po akong gr-um-aduate sa kurso ko before,” saad niya. Dagdag pa niya ay kung mabibigyan man siyang magpatuloy sa kursonh Medikal, gusto niya pa rin itong ituloy upang makapagtrabaho sa ibang bansa at masuklian niya ang kaniyang pamilya.

Ayon naman sa naging kuwento ni Juanito (hindi niya rin tunay na pangalan), na ngayo'y may kursong BSIT (Bachelor of Science in Information Technology), wala siyang naging pagsisisi sa bagong kursong pinasukan niya. Para sa kaniya, ang naging pagsisisi niya lamang ay hindi na angkop ang unang kurso niya sa kaniyang kakayahan. Inaamin niyang malaki ang nawalang taon sa kaniya kahit pa naipasa niya lahat ng mga units sa kursong ito.

Bukod kasi sa ‘dream course’ niya ito noon, pakiramdam niya ay malaki ang puwedeng mawala sa kaniya kung susugal siya lalo pa't marami siyang mabibigat na pasanin sa buhay na dinadala noong mga panahong iyon.

Dagdag pa ni Juanito, “'Yung mga ibang fees na hindi naman nagagamit, like if I remember correctly, ang mahal pero I have never used it. The only thing that I will praise, sa tingin ko, is 'yung mga scholaships na in-offer nila sa mga students, it's very helpful.”

Ang ilang ibinahaging kuwento ni Esang at Juanito ay bumubuo lamang sa maliit na dibersiyon ng kabuoang porsyento ng mga estudyanteng may iba't ibang pribilehiyo na nagamit ayon sa kanilang sitwasyon. Ang kanilang mga karanasan ay parte ng rason kung bakit patuloy ang pakikibaka para sa mga estudyanteng nangangailangan ng sapat na tulong pang-edukasyon. Mababaw man o mabigat ang kanilang rason, naisantabi man nila ang kanilang prayoridad sa gilid, hindi pa rin ito mabuting basehan upang pagkaitan sila ng kalidad na edukasyong walang hadlang tungo sa posibilidad na siguradong may kalalagyan.

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TRUTH ABOVE ALL

TRUTH ABOVE ALL

FEATURE

June 2023 - November 2023 | Vol. XXXII Issue No. 1

STUDENT WHO HAVE A PASSION THAT IS NOT ALIGNED WITH THE TAKEN COLLEGE PROGRAM

June 2023 - November 2023 | Vol. XXXII Issue No. 1

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MICHAEL GAMBON'S ILLUSTROUS JOURNEY: A YEARNING ODE TO

By Mark Daniel L. Barcelona

By Kyzea Simon

Numbing the pain for a while will make it worse when you finally feel it.

Hans Ardane C. Catabay is a 19-year-old student from Aporao, Bani, Pangasinan. He is currently in his second year of Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering at the PHINMA-University of Pangasinan (PHINMA-UPang). But unlike most of his classmates, Hans has a different passion: fashion designing.

Hans grew up in a family of tailors. His grandfather made custom dresses and uniforms for students, and Hans was fascinated by the art of creating clothes. He developed a keen interest in fashion, especially in designing his own outfits. He dreamed of becoming a runway model or a fashion designer someday.

However, when it was time to choose a college program, Hans faced a dilemma. Fashion design was not a practical career option in the Philippines, especially for an only child. His parents wanted him to study at PHINMA-UPang, but the university did not offer a fashion design degree. Hans had to settle for civil engineering, a field that he was not fond of.

“ I t ’s hard, honestly. Since mathematics is not my thing, I was stumbling around in the dark.

Fortunately, I am gradually adjusting to the real nature of my degree; nonetheless, I still long for the day when I may finally follow my greatest interest, perhaps after completing engineering,” Hans said.

Despite the challenges, Hans did not give up on his passion. He continued to design and make his own clothes, using his creativity and skills. He also participated in various fashion events, such as the Lumiere pageant hosted at College of Engineering and Architecture Festival last September 2023, where he wore his own creation.

“That was my second concept that I was able to effectively bring to life, however it’s more costume-like and not the typical type of my design style,” Hans said. He described his style as “simple but elegant, with a touch of edginess.”

Hans also shared his message to other students who have a passion that is not aligned with their college program.

Just realize that time is your ultimate ally. Never give up on the things you love, even if you can’t always get what you’ve wanted. Never underestimate the power of time and destiny; if it is meant for you, the universe will always find a way to make it happen. One day you will look up from your feet and realize that this is what you have longed for and sought,” Hans said.

Hans also expressed his hope that PHINMA-UPang would offer a fashion design program in the future.

“This is my actual dream. I often ponder myself if uPang had offered fashion design instead of civil engineering, would I have continued to pursue that course of study? You know, uPang is pretty

diversified in my opinion, and if there was a fashion design degree offered here, I would love to see those who truly love fashion expand their horizons.

Students would be able to reach their full potential and make a valuable contribution to the fashion industry,” Hans said.

Hans Ardane C. Catabay is a student who lives by his motto: “Always make an impact, make the Cma hallway a fashion runway.” He is an example of how one can pursue his passion, even if it is not aligned with his current college program. He is an inspiration to those who want to follow their dreams, no matter what obstacles they face.

Across the magical worlds of J.K. Rowling's wizarding universe, one figure in particular—Albus Dumbledore—stands out as the embodiment of knowledge, tenacity, and kindness. The wise and witty words of the Hogwarts Headmaster inspired his students, especially for being a nominal hero of the series, far beyond the realms of wizardry. It's time to explore the magical skill that Michael Gambon brought to the adored Hogwarts headmaster as we commemorate the first anniversary of Richard Harris's portrayal of Dumbledore, which left an enduring impression on the character.

Born on October 19, 1940, in Dublin, Ireland, Michael Gambon's passion for acting took root on the stage. Throughout his early career, he performed in both classical and modern pieces, refining his talents on the theater boards.

A remarkable career was suggested by Gambon's ability to command the stage with a captivating presence and seamless delivery. Michael Gambon's career demonstrated the breadth and depth of his acting abilities long before he took on the role of Albus Dumbledore in the wizarding realm of Harry Potter.

Shakespearean works were a new chapter in the remarkable career of this all-around versatile actor. His portrayals in plays like "Othello" and "King Lear" hinted at the gravity he would eventually bring to the role of Dumbledore, showcasing his command of the Bard's language and

natural comprehension of the nuances of human nature.

With his role as Inspector Jules Maigret in the series of the same name, Gambon entered the realm of detective dramas in the late 2000s. His complex portrayal of the lead detective demonstrated his aptitude for negotiating the complexities of character-driven stories, which surely added to the depth of Dumbledore's character.

The wizarding community gasped in unison when Michael Gambon assumed Dumbledore's role in "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban" (2004). Could someone emulate Richard Harris's smooth transition? In addition to living up to expectations, Gambon gave the character a touch of magic all his own. His portrayal of Dumbledore struck a chord with followers of the character and newbies alike, as he combined a strong sense of energy with a playful side.

Gambon's portrayal of Dumbledore in "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix" (2007) was one of the most pivotal moments of his career. During the pivotal conflict with Voldemort, Gambon's Dumbledore demonstrated his power through a fierce demonstration of magic, establishing his authority and revealing a previously unseen aspect of the character. Audiences were transfixed by Gambon's intense performance, which solidified his status as the Dumbledore for a new era.

A shadow was cast over the Dumbledore legacy by Richard Harris's death, but Michael Gambon handled the transition with grace,

honoring his predecessor while making the character wholly his own. Whether it was the death of cherished characters or the impending threat of the Dark Lord, Gambon's Dumbledore persevered through the tragic storm. A sense of fortitude and subdued grief permeated his portrayal, endearing him to fans who experienced Dumbledore's hardships.

It's clear that fans will always cherish what he brought to the wizarding community. Actors' ability to bring beloved literary characters to life and the timeless power of storytelling are both demonstrated by Gambon's Dumbledore. Not only does his legacy endure as Dumbledore, but it also endures as a wizarding icon who expanded the magic that enthralled successive generations.

The world was captivated by Michael Gambon's portrayal of Albus Dumbledore, which was a magical journey. Gambon's Dumbledore, from his debut to his moving farewell in "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" (2009), continues to stand for strength, knowledge, and the eternal spirit of Hogwarts.

"Do not pity the dead, [Harry]. Pity the living and above all, those who live without love.”

September 27, 2023 became a gloomy and melancholy day for Potterheads as he left the muggle world just like his character in the wizarding world at the age of 82. We raise our wands to Michael Gambon, the wizard who brought Dumbledore to life with unmatched charm and authenticity, marking this year's milestone with a celebration that will last forever in the enchanted fabric of the Harry Potter universe.

By Angelo B.

By Angelo Melben B. Bautista

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Setting sail on a voyage through the world of psychology was a profound odyssey into the depths of the human psyche.

By Quency Gylle C. Cabral

It served as an enlightening revelation into the complexities of the mind and the profound ways in which psychology molds our comprehension of both ourselves and the world around us. Many of us, drawn to the field of psychology, share a common aspiration: the quest for meaning and insight into our own existence. It is a journey driven by an unwavering desire to alleviate suffering, be it our own or that of others.

Initially, my foray into the world of psychology was fueled by noble intentions, a determination to unravel the enigmas of the human psyche and to offer assistance to those in need. As I delved into this course, I found myself captivated by the diverse tapestry of theories, therapeutic methodologies, and riveting case studies that vividly underscored the intricacies of the human mind. However, it didn't take long for me to realize that the study of psychology held an equally profound gift for self-discovery.

In the wise words of Carl Rogers, "The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change." Navigating the corridors of psychological theories and immersing myself in compelling case studies, I couldn't help but turn inward, contemplating the landscapes of my own life experiences.

The psychology course acted as a mirror, beckoning me to explore the recesses of my thoughts, behaviors, and emotions in a structured and enlightening manner. It was an invitation to introspection, a catalyst for questioning my own motives and reactions. Gradually,

"

it led me to unearth facets of myself that had long remained concealed.

One of the most profound revelations that unfolded during my psychological journey was the paramount importance of self-acceptance. Through profound lessons on self-esteem, identity development, and the pervasive influence of societal norms, I came to terms with my own vulnerabilities and insecurities. Instead of perceiving them as weaknesses, I learned to embrace them as integral components of my unique identity. This newfound self-acceptance marked the genesis of my personal growth.

What commenced as a noble mission to aid others through the prism of psychology education metamorphosed into a deeply introspective voyage of self-discovery and personal evolution. Through this course, I realized that before extending a helping hand to others, I needed to fathom and embrace my own essence entirely. It furnished me with the tools to navigate the intricacies of my own mind, nurturing self-awareness and character development that will remain indelible throughout my lifetime. In the tapestry of existence, psychology not only bestowed upon me the knowledge to assist others but also empowered me to become the most authentic version of myself—an enduring testament to the profound impact of this subject on both personal and professional growth.

PASS THE MIKE: HIS LEGACY TO BROADCASTING AND BEYOND After long hours of playing with your friends outside, the sky started to dim and finally, your mom called you to wash up and eat the dinner that she prepared. She opened the television and the theme of 24 oras started echoing around the room. I remember asking my mom if Mike Enriquez and Mel Tiangco were married.

As a response, she laughed hysterically.. What a childhood.

We all grew up watching Mike Enriquez, he has been a news anchor for 24 oras for almost two decades. He is a well-respected broadcaster known for his unique voice and his iconic lines “Excuse me po!” and “Di namin kayo tatantanan!”. I used to imitate his remarkable lines when I was playing with my friends. He was part of my life for as long as I can remember. However, after a long battle with cancer, he passed away at age 71.

I remember watching Mel Tiangco delivering the news of Mike Enriquez’s death on the evening of August 29th. I felt all the emotions coming through my body and I remember my childhood days where everything was bright and colorful. It was like saying goodbye to a family member. Yet, I remembered Mike Enriquez will forever be in our hearts.

Mike Enriquez , whose real name is

Miguel Enriquez was born on September 29, 1951 at Santa Ana, Manila. He is the oldest of the three siblings. Surprisingly, Mike Enriquez didn’t even plan on entering the world of broadcasting and dreamt of becoming a priest instead.

According to one of his interviews, he idolizes St. Francis of Assisi, the same saint whose Pope Francis I is named after.

Mike Enriquez’s broadcasting career started in 1969 at age 19, his friend jokingly introduced him as an expected applicant, he later was asked to try since he has nothing to lose and later became a DJ for Manila Broadcasting Company. He became known for his pseudonyms “Baby Mike” and “Baby Michael”. He even had a cameo role in Andrew E’s 1992 movie Mahirap Maging Pogi as a Disc Jockey using his name baby mike.

Through broadcasting, Mike Enriquez met his wife, Lilybeth “Baby” Yumping” and got married in 1977. They had no children and adopted their dogs named Booma and Mickey, both were Mike’s nicknames.

Mike Enriquez became part of GMA in 1994 to head its radio division and even expanded it from only four stations at the time.

Just like his broadcasting career, his TV career started when he least expected it. GMA network convinced Mike to be the anchor of the 1995

Philippine Senatorial Elections coverage. After that he was once again invited by the network to do a 15-minute newscast along with Karen Davila. Afterwards, he became part of multiple TV programs but is most notable for Imbestigador that earned him the nickname “Imbestigador ng Bayan” and became part of 24 oras since 2004.

At first, Mike Enriquez gives an impression of aggressive yet according to his co-workers he was far from his “imbestigador” persona. According to Marissa L. Flores, the former senior vice president of GMA Public News and Affairs,Mike is a quirky anchor and sometimes there's news that has music in it and he’ll act like he’s playing a violin. She even added that his quirkiness is beneath him and it can only be seen by the people off camera.

Another interesting fact, his tagline “excuse me po!” is because of his frequent eating of nuts, according to Jessica Soho. She also investigated who his supplier was and sometimes they would argue because of it. Soho also added that he even joked how many times he should cough and he’ll add it on (the conditions) of his contract.

Mike was known for his dedication to his work. Ahl Villanueva, the production assistant for Imbestigador recalled that even if Mike is sick, he’ll still go to work. He also shared that

one time he was scolded because he didn’t text him to do a voice over because he is concerned with his health but Mike Enriquez said “I’ll tell you if I can’t (go to work). Flores recalled that Mike was the epitome of “Mr. News” because he liked news. She remembered that when the staff at the newsroom were in a frenzy because there was breaking news that needed to be delivered, he was in the middle and was ecstatic because he was so excited about the news.

His dedication to newscasting made him become one of the most prominent figures of television. Aside from his love for his profession, he’s also a well-respected man off-cam. Many of his workmates expressed their gratitude for Mike Enriquez for his kind and sweet nature.

Without Mike Enriquez, perhaps the lives of millions of Filipinos who grew up watching him will never be the same. However, his existence will never be forgotten. I’ll always admire how he didn’t fear any political figures and roasted them on national television during the 2022 Presidential Election. I remember his iconic lines. I remember how he shaped my childhood.

Mike Enriquez’s unique tone will always be in my heart.

TRUTH ABOVE ALL

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June 2023 - November 2023 | Vol. XXXII Issue No. 1

In a bustling market, on a young Saturday evening, Juan dela Cruz fought his way towards the swarm of people in front of a sari-sari store. Dust covered his feet and slippers, as he had just finished working in a construction site. Counting the remaining change from buying the items on his good wife’s list, his face lifted when only one was left: a kilogram of rice. As he made his way through, he looked at the variety of rice and scanned for the lowest-priced one that could fit in what remains of his daily wage clinking in his pocket. Juan dela Cruz’s face grew weary and the continuous rise in the price of these white grains, for times he could not count, bore extra weight on his shoulder. He could not do anything, so he bought half a kilogram and headed home.

Juan dela Cruz’s story seems to be literally every Filipino’s story now.

Rice is a staple food in a Filipino family’s dining table. Almost every meal, rice is always served and paired with different dishes. According to the National Nutrition Council (2020), rice has both cultural and nutritional importance to Filipinos. It is associated with traditions and practices rooted deep into the national identity. It also provides half the calorie requirements and other essential nutrients needed daily. As an agricultural country whose diet relies upon this crop, an increase, even just a couple of pesos, can greatly affect the budget – especially of the average and those in and be-

By Angeline Soriano

low the poverty line.

In a report of Cariaso (2023), for One News, there has only been increase in the price of rice since April of this year. The lowest that could be bought in the market is at forty pesos (Php 40.00) and in Metro Manila, it can spike up to forty-six pesos (Php 46.00). The causes are intertwining but reports revealed that rice is sold at an extremely low farmgate price. There are laws implemented by the government aiming to improve food security, such as the Republic Act No. 11203 or the Rice Liberalization Law, but it has failed to tame the increasing price. IBON Foundation (2023) expressed their sentiments regarding the law as only putting threat to the local farmers and aggravating dependence of the country in importing rice.

The rise in the price of Filipino’s staple food is more than just losing capability of buying enough to last for a day. It is a constant source of worry and anxiousness of not having something to feed the family. It means doing extended hours of work and taking on extra jobs to cope up with the ever-increasing price. Yet, most certainly, every Juan dela Cruz, still holds on tight to the hope of a quality and affordable rice for the country.

After all, “Mawala na ang lahat, ‘wag lang ang kanin.’

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LITERARY

June 2023 - November 2023 | Vol. XXXII Issue No. 1

I AM, I WILL

by Raeve

I am Wendy. My looks don’t define me. I’m not a painting to leer at, nor am I a doll for others to decide how I dress up. I don’t need to prove myself to the society.

I will never change the way I am. Whether I’m pretty or not, it will never affect my capabilities. I am my own person. I will be who I wanted to be.

WHO SAID SAID IT IT WAS WAS SIMPLE? SIMPLE? WHO

I am Odette. My gender doesn’t define me. I am capable just like others do. I can work just as much as they do. I don’t care about others pushing me down, because I can still rise up. I’m not weak as others perceive me to be. I am a hard worker. I will be the boss of my own destiny.

I am Mary. My past will never bind me. I was a victim but I survived and is still living. I suffered, but that will not stop me from fighting. I won’t let those nightmares shackle me. I have shed enough tears, and it made me as strong as I can be. I am a survivor. I will be the voice of those in need.

I am Annie. My choices will never define me. I am a mother and a father of my own children. I will not be a martyr to tie myself in a relationship that will threaten my children’s security. I will bare my fangs for them.

I am a mother. I will be the head and light of my family.

I am Nadie. Nothing can hinder me. I am free to do what all humans do. I am free to ask and speak. I am free to learn anything and everything. I can decide for myself for I am capable to be what a human can be.

The sky’s the limit for whatever I can be. I am a woman.

I will be a significant part of the history.

DO YOU YOU HEAR HEAR ME? ME? DO

by Quenchives

By Shan Carlet R. Dacasin

To be a writer, one must have both the passion and courage of a great artist. One must be passionate enough to express one’s thoughts through his or her own words and brave enough to speak the truth with their works. But what is an artist without its art?

An artwork is a mirror of the artist’s mind. Journalists, authors, and novelists are all writers and for me, one thing that we all have in common aside

from using our words as a paintbrush; we writers suffer from “writer's block”.

Every great warrior uses weapons; we writers weaponize our minds and words as our swords—like every warrior, we also have our battles. A very bloody battle every writer fights.

Writer’s block is a challenge every writer faces. A feeling of losing track of how and what can you write for your next masterpiece.

Writer’s block is pure frustration and disappointment, and every writer has their own solutions to overcome it. I, myself, also encounter writer’s block and I too have my own way of overcoming it.

What works for me is that I tend to look for new inspirations and fresh motivation as writer’s block makes me feel detached from my passion for writing. To eventually help myself regain the spark in me in terms of writing: I do recreational activities, get in line with some co-writers, and spend generous amounts of time reading other’s works. The writing community is very small

yet so vast in imagination, I’ve seen and met tons of great writers and I always ask them what are their ways to beat writer’s block.

Some say giving their selves time to relax, others answer: fully focusing and sometimes even pressuring themselves to bring out the best in themselves—which is all good as long as it works out for them, every writer has their style and technique; that is what makes one’s work worth reading.

These are tons of things that could help us defeat mental block, and so, my fellow writers, don’t lose hope with a mere writer’s block. Remind yourself that writer’s block is nothing but a challenge and once you succeed in overcoming it, you become another and a more improved version of yourself, perceiving it as an obstacle for you to face to level up and toughen the writer in you.

for himself, along with most of Walt’s team of animators.

Disheartened, he then had to come up with a new character that he could truly call his own—and at his last of three attempts, he had created his new star—and one that would a sensation to all throughout generations. With the debut of “Steamboat Willie”, the very first Walt Disney short to ever include sound, also came the debut of what would become the studio’s main mascot to this day, Mickey Mouse.

“Steamboat Willie” would follow Mickey as a sidewheeler on a steamboat, who jams along with Minnie in the most comic way to the sheet music she brought along of “Turkey in the Straw”, and sending the message of finding the positive side of every situation despite unwanted setbacks and company.

The successes of Walt Disney would continue, bringing in many firsts for the company as well. In 1932, “Snow White and the Seven Dwarves” would make its big screen debut as the first animated movie to be shown in English and in full color. Also, Walt Disney would be the first to introduce the “mini-series concept”

for television in 1954, with “Davy Crockett”, and the first to be able to develop a theme park intended for the entire family—Disneyland—in Anaheim, California, on July 17, 1955. To this day, it is still one of the most popular family destinations in the world—often dubbed “The Happiest Place on Earth.”

Even after Walt Disney’s death from lung cancer on December 15, 1966, Walt Disney Studios had, and still continued to make timeless classics both for television and the silver screen, with the latest addition to the distinguished roster being “Wish”, a 2023 film of wondrous magic and willpower that debuts a new Disney Princess, African-American Princess Asha (She is also the second African-American princess made by the company, after Tiana from 2009’s “The Princess and the Frog”).

On October of 2023, Walt Disney Studios celebrated its 100th Year Anniversary, with the release of the short film “Once Upon a Studio”. It showcases all of our favorite Disney characters ever created in the very same studio, all gathered together for to take one grand family picture. (Well, blood-curdling antagonists

weren’t invited, though.)

Looking back, Walt Disney Studios has shaped generations of classics and continuous, failproof waves of nostalgia. One can truly spot a Disney movie or song from even miles away—every animated symbol that always finds time to reawaken our inner children that never really died, but only put to slumber.

With the Disney magic within each one of us, we can find ourselves making everything possible—whether it be a trip to Neverland, a tour around the magical Madrigal family home, finding people worth melting for, or just simply getting lost in Fantasia in the midst of troubled times.

And at the end of the day, whether or not our wishes upon a star come true, we can always seek comfort in faith, family, and fun— until we find ourselves with the happiest hearts on earth, filled to the brim with the kind of happiness that transcends many more centuries to come.

I hope you thought to yourself like “who said it was simple?”

To go to school or have a walk around the neighborhood while being called names by men twice our age, Regardless of what we wear, most of us would surpass while some are captured and locked up in their cage; Who said it was simple?

To dress as we want and not trying to impress the malicious eyes wondering around at night like some prize of a game, To text our girl friends when we get home safe and it does not occur to us that not all of our guy friends don’t have to do the same; Who said it was simple?

That we can’t go outside without at least bringing a pepper spray, As daughters of most men begged us to be careful and then told our brothers to go out and play; Who said it was simple?

To not be called a whiny oversharer as we express our feelings while men expressing theirs are considered brave, “Stop overreacting so much” that’s what they said as it just echoes in our mind cave; Who said it was simple?

To tell a boy that I was powerful then told me to mind my own business, Wish I could tell them there are pretty women wallpapers that aren’t voiceless;

Do you hear me?

In the battles we've fought, In the struggles for equal ground sought?

In the strength of women, rising above, For a world where every heart find love.

To do what men can do and make a beautiful art, Yet still being belittled by them as they get a head start;

Do you hear me?

In the voices that unite, Championing a world where all have a right?

In the quest for balance, in every plea, For a future where we all are free.

To carry a child for nine months while being as strong and stable, Happily Married or r@ped ‘cause life’s a gamble;

Do you hear me?

In the stories we share, Of women's resilience, their unyielding care?

In the chapters unwritten, the pages yet to be, A tapestry of hope, of equality.

Do you hear me?

In the colors we display, In the vibrant spectrum of life, come what may?

In the diversity of souls that we see, A world where differences make us whole, you and me.

By Hannah Angeli F. Mendoza Welcome aboard the steamboat, dear reader! Though you might not hear “Turkey in the Straw” playing while you read this, why don’t you allow yourselves to imagine—to reflect and realize that it’s a small world after all?

Even if it did take a hundred years to build it.

The world was vast, however, through the mental lens of Walt Disney, who decided to put his all into building his dream career of being an animator in the 1920s. In 1923, he and his brother Roy had came up with “Alice Comedies”, a series of shorts based off of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (which would then become its own full-length film made by the latter in 1951). He had soon found himself a distributor for the series in October of 1923, which then became the formal start of the Disney Brothers Cartoon Studio.

After four years, he had created his new cartoon hero, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, a silent cartoon series about the everyday misadventures of the titular character, mostly including his love interest, Ortensia the Cat. But only after just a year and 26 episodes later, his distributor had decided to take the rights to Oswald

Do you hear me?

In the whispers of the past, Where dreams of equality were steadfast?

In the shadows of history, a silent plea, For a world where justice reigns, for you and me.

by sunflowerdaisy Let me ask you this: Have you tired to be in our shoes as women?

Ridiculous as it could sound, but did you notice?

Do you hear me?

In the rhythm of change, A melody of progress, rearranged?

In the harmony we seek, a symphony, For a world where justice and equality shall be.

Do you hear me?

In these words, sincere and true, A call for a world where dreams can come through?

In the promise of a brighter, equal tomorrow, For a world where love, respect, and equity follow.

TRUE FEMINIST FEMINIST TRUE by acse

I am a true feminist, regardless No, listen, dear I am a woman, a human, that's all When I have dark days I can't shed light I break down I ask for help I feel shame Yes, I do Advocate for a better life for women and men A true feminist is an Ever-dashing starlight To others One whose light casts shadows I can never be A true feminist

To face our monthly pains while trying to stay on top, As men laughed at us for being “weak” nonstop;

Misogyny, insensitive, gaslighting, abusive, It’s not our fault for “triggering” those yet why put the blame on us?

Don’t tell me I can’t get mad, ‘cause being a feminist isn’t bad; Don’t ask me what’s wrong, For standing up and being strong; Someday I just want people to like more than I want to change the city, Yet some would tell me to sit still and look pretty; Now let me ask you again; who said it was simple being a women?

Or rather, not all these scenarios are hidden yet have you tried to listen?

“Behaving” and being “quiet” is what you told us to do, Thus you’re saying that silence is not an act of violence too?

EXPECT EXPECT by louis

He expects a housewife But can’t provide a life She is walking in a knife But everybody is in strife Oh, is this how it is supposed to be?

An equality that chooses; not me A world who favors a bee, But never the woman who gives the tree Time says it will heal you Yet society will never be new A cruel reality, I don’t want to view Change is something only done by a few It might take million stones Who knows where it will go?

She has the right to grow In a society that doesn’t glow She expects a life A man can never be a wife He is walking in a knife The society will always be in strife

OPINION

LETTERS

June 2023 - November 2023 | Vol. XXXII Issue No. 1

15

June 2023 - November 2023 | Vol. XXXII Issue No. 1

Reader, How are you? Are you sitting on your class chair? Outside with your friends? In your room; on your bed, study table, or your ‘chair’? No matter where you are right now, listen to your voice whilst you read me. Are you doing well? If not, unclench your jaw, relax your eyebrows, drop your shoulders, and breathe. If you are, please embrace that and celebrate your sanity. I am beyond proud of what you have become, and even more proud of what you will become in your power.

What? You think that dream’s too big? Nah, you’re bigger than anything. It’s you who can make everything in your vision possible. What you have is boundless. I hope you stumble upon that video on the internet where it shows a comparison between the size of us, humans, and the other elements of the universe. We’re literally the size of dust! That means, the universe is so big already for you to belittle yourself. You’re already little in cosmos. And drop the idea that you’re not going to make it, alright? You will because you will work for it, and as you work you will fail; once, twice, thrice, and that’s normal, inevitable. It’s how you learn.

Hence, thank failure every once in a while, because trust me, failure always precedes success for passionate people. Cry, throw things, scream, and sleep if you must, if you want, if you can. Then bounce back, because you will bounce back.

The harder you’re thrown, the higher you bounce. Get that, superhuman? Good.

Now do your thing.

The Jeepney Phaseout: A Modernization or a Marginalization?

I

t is a symbol of Filipino way of life, history, and resilience. For a long time, jeepneys have served as the backbone of public transport, offering less costly and handy rides to thousands and thousands of commuters. However, the government's plan to section out jeepneys and replace them with present day public utility vehicles (PUVs) threatens to erase this iconic jeepney from the streets and the livelihoods of lots of drivers and operators.

The authorities claims that the jeepney phaseout is part of its public utility vehicle modernization program (PUVMP), which pursuits to make public transport safer, greener, and extra environmentally pleasant. The PUVMP requires

Love, KM

jeepneys to conform with positive standards, including having Euro four engines, air-conditioning, CCTV cameras, GPS, and automatic fare series structures. Those who fail to conform can have their franchises revoked and their devices impounded. The government additionally offers financing schemes and subsidies to assist jeepney operators and drivers accumulate new PUVs. However, many jeepney stakeholders oppose the jeepney phaseout, arguing that it's far unfair, impractical, and anti-poverty. They say that the brand new PUVs are too costly and the financing schemes are not enough to cover the prices. They also worry that the jeepney phaseout will result in the lack of their jobs and profits,

in addition to the displacement of their families and communities. They also query the environmental and social impact of the jeepney phaseout, pointing out that the new PUVs will nevertheless make a contribution to air pollutants and traffic congestion, and that the jeepney phaseout will deprive the general public of a reasonably-priced and convenient fare option.

The jeepney phaseout isn't an easy count number of replacing antique vehicles with new ones. It is a complicated trouble that includes the rights, pursuits, and welfare of diverse sectors of society. It is likewise a cultural difficulty that influences the identification and historical past of the Filipino people. The jeepney is not just a ve-

October 30, 2023 Monday

The jeepney phaseout isn't an easy count number of replacing antique vehicles with new ones.

Dear Diary, Today, I believe I was blessed with a superpower. Laser eyes? No. Superstrength? I do not think so.

Psychic abilities? Most probably not. It was a surge of strength, value and passion after I had finished history class. Yes, one might first judge how boring it might be, but it is like riding on a time capsule. For two hours’ time, it zapped us back to the Philippine’s colonial period.

One thing I can assure everyone is that the Philippine’s colonial period is not a must-try-to-live-on-era – especially for women. Except for glamorous filipinianas, intricately designed fans and parasol, the canvass that paints women’s status back then was all shades of black. Dominated by a patriarchal system, women were bound to be less, submissive, and timid. They are conditioned to reflect the epitome of a good caretaker of home, more appropriate to say, be like “Maria Clara”. This thinking limited women to great extent. They could not go to school. They were born to marry. They were not allowed to say or do anything against what the society imposed they ought to be. They were like slaves of their time, and this made me think that if all the Maria Claras were to join us right now, they will be in great daze and bewilderment.

The modern Filipina is more than just a housewife. Our potential has been unleashed by opportunities presented by women empowerment and movement overtime. We are engineers who build great cities. We are inventors for human good. We are doctors for the sick. To put it simply, we are movers of our own destinies.

Women are creatures of power, knowledge, and possibilities, as all humans are. Norms and gender roles have been defied and all the ideas of inequalities and dominations are slowly crumbling to dust. Truly, I am in much adoration of how the world has opened for women.

Women of today are free and self-driven. We are not told what we can or cannot do. If a girl wants to wear a pair of sneakers and baggy jeans, let her be! If one chose not to marry and pursue a life of excellent career, it is her choice! The opportunities and rights granted by feminism equally to all, must be one of the most monumental changes in perspective.

Right now, I am feeling this superpower I would like to call women empowerment. It is another set of lenses to view my values and responsibilities in the society. As a matter of fact, I believe Maria Clara is still inside of me, kind-hearted and graceful. Yet, she is much stronger, bolder and wiser.

As a woman, it has taught me I am an individual of influence, and I can make a change.

hicle; it's miles a manner of existence.

The government need to no longer impose the jeepney phaseout without thinking about the views and needs of the jeepney stakeholders and the general public. The government need to have interaction in proper and inclusive consultations and dialogues with the jeepney sector, and cope with their worries and needs. The authorities must additionally discover alternative answers so that it will not only modernize the general public transport machine, however also maintain the jeepney as a cultural icon and a source of livelihood. The jeepney phaseout should now not be a modernization at the expense of marginalization.

Age Doesn’t Matter, So Does Your Jail Sentence

ENTERTAINMENT Keep an EYE out

Lots of love, Juanita

OPINION

14

June 2023 - November 2023 | Vol. XXXII Issue No. 1

OPINION: N-word: Non-negotiable For black people, "n*gga" is used as a term of endearment to recognize one as a friend or a "bud-

dy". It is an adaption of the word "nigger", a Latin term for black people, inevitably the Africans, which was attached to the African slave trade in 1619, where Africans were sold as slaves mainly for the Americans, stripping their human rights off by treating them as no less than animals. The attachment of the word to this blood-soaked history seems to be under the shade of racial slur being treated as a surface level profanity. Evident to people, particularly the young, using the word often without any knowledge of the context behind this word.

Our Non-existent Monopoly on Words It's simple; if you're not black, you shouldn't have a say about when or how to use the n-word. It's racist. Putting the focus on the etymology on the n-word, the black community had indeed, revived the slur and used the adapted word as a form of endearment. However, it does not give us, non-black people, the permission to use the term AT ALL. The reclaim does not change the history the word holds for their community. Moreover, the frequent use of the word in general as a provocative term, does not desensitize its naturally offensive connotation, hence the contin-

uous backlash for its use. It is our responsibility to educate ourselves on these matters, especially when issues like these have been anchoring our progress in fostering a safe and inclusive society since time immemorial.

The Weight of the Word I once asked a high school student (intentionally as he takes part of the highest exposure of false media in the spectrum) if he thinks people who say the n-word must face a consequence. His answer was "No, tapos na ang slavery ng black people matagal na so bakit kailangan mag suffer nang mga taong nag sasabi ng n-word ngayon? Lagi namang naririnig sa mga kanta." If you're struck, that makes two of us.

Let's look at the facts.

In an exclusive cover of CNN Africa in 2017, they discovered slave auctions of Africans in Libya. Further information from news articles in 2017 states that 71% of migrants experience slavery, particular races mentioned were Eritreans, Somalis and Nigerians. Therefore no, black slavery is not completely eliminated in the modern world.

Slavery is not over, racism is not over. But say they are, the weight this word carry will never be lessened by any ounce. Black people cannot get over

of the blood-soaked past because the world never allowed them to, and this is manifested in the modern day slavery, the use of n-word by the non-black people, and the general amount of disproportionate oblivion of the people of the mere facts such as the marginalization, and stagnant position of black people in the socio-economic ladder.

You Hang Up The world of trends is so fast paced, "hypes" change from one minute to another. And while it is part of our human nature to seek dominance, accentuated in this generation as being seen "cool", you as a tech-savvy, and well rounded digital native must hang up to the call of this sense of "coolness" in using the n-word or literally any word that holds power in situating people or a community in harm or disgrace. Acknowledge that a "trend" in its own avenue can make you believe that because people does it, it's not wrong. It's high time we invest our attention to research on social issues as we are at the peak of information availability, there is no excuse to justify one's unawareness. The recurring issue of the use of the n-word is one of the most talked about topics through the years; history, articles, and other media resources are available. What else do we need?

Acknowledge that a "trend" in its own avenue can make you believe that because people does it, it's not wrong.

"Age doesn't matter," they said.

However, some take it too far -- even below the age of consent -- to justify their ‘love’ for each other. Other times, they wait for the younger person to turn eighteen as a pass to not get caught in the act. Take EJ Laure for example, who only admitted to the rumors on her involvement with Bugoy Carino, as well as the pregnancy, as soon as he turned 18 in 2020.

Well-known couples with grooming include Julia Montes and Coco Martin, who went public with their relationship in 2023, stating that he tried to court Julia when she was 13, he was 25. I can certainly go on and on about more cases, but one thing remains: It’s all about how the media somehow normalized grooming. According to CNN Philippines in a September 2023 article, the Philippines ranked second in online sexual abuse and exploitation of children.

What is grooming?

According to the Maryland Coalition Against Sexual Assault (MCASA), grooming is an act of exploitation where a child sexual offender takes advantage of the younger individual, a minor, for sexual favors while maintaining secrecy. They even go as far as obtaining parental consent by gaining their trust and share a pattern of targeting victims, often vulnerable young kids.

Perpetrators deny allegations and often cloak it in lots of excuses such as 'love'. Some even claim that they are just 'helping' these children with their problems, reinforcing some sort of savior complex in their head.

How did the media manage to normalize grooming?

The media, as we all know, is one of the forerunners in shaping society for the better or worse. They provide platforms for the general public, especially public figures like celebrities.

The love team culture has introduced us to pairs like Liza Soberano and Enrique Gil, also known as LizQuen, who starred in shows like Dolce Amore.

Soberano was 17 at the time she dated Gil, and no one seemed to bat an eye. Elvis Presley married ex-wife Priscilla when she was 21, he was 32 but met her at 14. No calls for accountability were ever made until years later.

Soap operas have long conditioned society to believe in the notion that love knows no age nor boundaries. It’s true, but it only applies to adults. Not a minor

and an adult.

Love stories have told us it’s fine to go after an older person or entertain one, thinking it’s fine without any repercussions.

They veil it under the guise of ‘maturity’. To them, it’s a perfectly normal romance, almost as normal as every teenage Wattpad novel-turned-movie.

Apart from this, you get romantic tropes shown in lots of media where they emphasize ‘the right time’ and purely waiting for your love. This only applies to couples with no questionable age gaps and a valid reason to wait — not waiting for the time where they won’t consider themselves prisoners. Sweetie, even if he says he’s waiting for you to turn 18 before you two can make it official, you better run. That does not make anything better.

Why is it wrong?

First and foremost, it's literally a form of exploitation and involves children. Even if one tries to excuse it by saying that minor and adult romantic relationships don’t necessarily involve grooming, it is still downright inappropriate to actively pursue a 13-year-old freshly out of elementary school or entertain people under 18 who confess having romantic feelings for you.

No, it is your obligation as an adult to protect the wellbeing of a child, not exploit them by reciprocating their feelings.

“My parents were 25 and 41 when they got married!” Honey, your parents met when they were adults with computer science degrees and employment.

Moreover, waiting for them to turn 18 isn’t morally correct, either. You are only looking for a free ticket out of jail and a facade to make your relationship seem legal. No one can just say that it’s the same person when they are both in different ages – there never was any reason, at all, to justify acts like this.

“Oh, she’s in the age of consent,” The age of consent is literally 16, only signed in 2022 from the previous 12 years old. That’s still lower than 18, barely an adult and hasn’t seen 18 roses at her debut.

You’re just taking advantage of youth and twisting the truth in your favor, the same way you take advantage of how the media feeds you the wrong information if you are not careful enough.

Illustrated by Jasmine Bernadette Bembo A Student's Journey

Illustrated by Jemuel Jairus Gutierrez

Football and Basketball: Bolden’s Historic Win in 2023 FIFA Woman’s World Cup in New Zealand June 2023 - November 2023 | Vol. XXXII Issue No. 1

Filipinos love their sports, they love their players and they love playing it.

Basketball has been a prominent sport in the Philippines, dating back to when the Americans had snatched the ownership of the country from the hands of the Spaniards, it is meant to be a lasting impression of the colonialism that happened in the country. Basketball is not really associated with the dark side of history rather it is associated with the interesting and easy mechanics it brought. Even now, Basketball is still the most popular sport in the Philippines.

Out of nowhere, and just recently, The Filipinas, a Filipino Football team, won the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup last July 25, 2023.

The one who is behind the historic goal was Sarina Bolden, a half-Pangasinense and African American descent.

For 90 minutes of holding down their defense, Bolden assured their win when the goalkeeper lost her grip on the ball and Bolden made that historic score against New Zealand’s Football Fern.

This win, however, stirred a thought about whether football does fit Filipinos instead of Basketball.

Infrastructure and Equipment For Basketball, people even use makeshift basketball rings and an overused ball. On every street, there would be a ring that signifies the Filipinos' love for basketball even if all the equipments are makeshift. Even Sangguniang Kabataan will propose a program of Basketball Liga where teenagers from their barangay can play and compete in Basketball. To make sports popular, a basic infrastructure is needed for it to be even playable, that is why Basketball is famous because the government can even fund the instruction and equipment.

For Football, it can be a bit expensive for that matter, a wide field is needed to play but you only need a ball to kick. Rice fields that were freshly trimmed off the harvest could even be a playing field. No need for a ring that would cost much to maintain.

Mechanics and Rules In Football, the only thing a player should keep in their mind is do not let the ball out of their sight (or foot), do not let other play-

ers snatch it away, and do not hit them either then run towards their goal. In Basketball, a player will also not let the ball out of their sight but keep sight of their own teammate and the other team so that they could make a pass towards their player because if the ball lasts for long in their hand. Players need to be quick and have fast decision-making skills so they do not gain any fouls for handling the ball wrong.

Advantages and disadvantages In Basketball, being taller is a great advantage, that is why a lot of players will be roughly 200cm (6’7) tall. The average height of a person in the Philippines has the average height as roughly 164cm (5’5), unless the player is witty enough to get the other’s hand away from the ball, which is impossible proximity.

Going against a 200cm tall player, will probably not gain you an advantage. In Football, height does not matter as long as they are quick on their feet and can run away from the players who will snatch away the ball.

Famous Filipino Players

Recently, Sarina Bolden made a historic mark in Football. Winning the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in New Zealand. Even though on July 30, 2023, they lost against Norway with a points of 6-0, their win in New Zealand still left a lasting impression on the history of Football in the country.

Bolden is definitely a significant player of Filipino descent, while in Basketball, sometimes people lose count of famous players who are winning and gaining recognition in International competitions.

For fun times and memories It's very important to note that people will treat different sports differently, someone will think that Football is easy while still thinking that Basketball cannot be changed as one of the famous sports in the Philippines and someone will think that Football should have been the sports of the country because of how overrated Basketball is.

Filipinos love their sports, they love their players and they love playing it. They will never change their mind over the feelings and experiences they get whenever they play Basketball, it has been a long tradition and past time for Filipinos that it does not matter if Filipinos can be good at other sports. There are still significant Filipinos who will strive to be the best players in their chosen sports and people should still remind themselves, that it’s fine that there are differences in their love for sports, as long as they enjoy it, people will experience fun times and create memories.