small things sometimes carry great regrets.
graphics by nevin crampatanta words by jessan cabunsol
q
contEnts tolEntinE star
COVER STORY
THE HARMONY IN LEADING THE PACK
PAGE 22
Know the secret of a leader and his followers in acquiring a progressive community COLUMNS
PAGES 05, 17, 25, 35
URBAN LEGENDS
PAGE 26
REVIEWS
PAGE 38
ROLEPLAY
PAGE 36
10
HISTORY’S HOME
02
NOW YOU SEE ME, NOW YOU DON’T:NINJA STUDENTS IN ACTION!
Why is maintaining attention in studying so hard for some students?
03
EVERY DROP-OUT COUNTS
How does much every dropped subject cost?
Explore the stories of existing facts of triumph and downfall of Negros
13
29
A REAL CAREER IN THE GREEN
A woman of hardwork and success
DOUBLE LIFE
Why some people live in two different worlds with different personalities
15
32
MORE THAN JUST THE TIP OF THE ICEBERG
The meaning of your body structure
DIHON: RAGING ARTISTIC ACTIVISM
06
BATTLES OF THE UNDERGROUND: A CLOSER LOOK AT BACOLOD’S MUSIC SCENE
Listen to the sound beneath fame
09
THE OTHER SHADES OF BLUE AND GOLD
Know what kind of UNO-Rian are you
Another unique way of protesting
18
33
HEROES UNCOVERED
Go into the stories of people who somehow bring hope
STRIPPING YOURSELF OUT OF SOCIETY’S MASK
Are you ready of getting out of your shell?
21
CAN YOU KEEP A SECRET?
Why some couples chose to hide their relationship
41
THE PATH UNWINDING
The sudden shift of career
THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF NEGROS OCCIDENTAL -RECOLETOS
TolentineStar
Editor’s notE
EDITORIAL BOARD
JESSAN CABUNSOL editor-in-chief _______________________________________________ EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS
JOEBERT VALDEZ finance and inventory CHERRY MAE CORDOVA human resource JOHN KAYE DELOSTRICO JEANHER MAE MAHINAY senior editors _______________________________________________ DESK EDITORS
THERESE AMOR PANZO news feature editor NIKKO PAOLO CALUMPIANO literary editor _______________________________________________ TECHNICAL EDITORS
NEVIN CRAMPATANTA graphics editor
IT FOLLOWS US WHEREVER WE ARE as long as there is light. It never leaves us. It is our minimalist feature. It is our shadow – a mere proof that we still exist. Just like how light needs dark to exist, the shadow is the dark side created every time we obstruct light. And it could mean a lot – insecurity, sadness, fear, or even comfort. Enjoy this year’s first magazine with stories crafted from the experiences of different people – stories that you have thought are impossible to happen. Read about the story of involvement and cooperation of the people in Barangay Tapi in The Harmony in Leading the Pack and know your shade as a UNO-Rian in The Other Shades of Blue and Gold. Read on to get along with the shadows of other people. Be in touch with the people around you and don’t forget to observe their every move. Their shadows might trick you. Take the risk of chasing other shadows or it’s time for you to chase your own.
NORMAN BALDOMAR, JR. layout editor _______________________________________________ STAFF WRITERS JOHN LESTER ALMOSA CHRISTIAN JOHN ALOTA ALYSSA MARIE ARCEÑO VALERIE ANNE BUENCONSEJO NESKA CENTINA JANE PAULINE DOLOCANOG MAEGAN FRUTO JAMIE JELLE GUINO-O JIEZL MARIE HUCALLA JANELLE GAY MARANDE ROAN HOPE OCABAN DANIELLE FRANCIS OLSEN CRISTITHA SIPULAN _______________________________________________ CARTOONISTS ANAMAE LACHICA VAN JERWIN VERGARA _______________________________________________ PHOTOJOURNALISTS JOSE MADISON CRAMPATANTA, JR. PAUL JUSTIN DEOMA ALEJO ANTONIO MONDEJAR CHRISTELLE VILLARUZ _______________________________________________ WEBSITE ADMINISTRATOR KEITH DANIELLE BALCEDA VINCENT ANGIELO SUYO _______________________________________________ IVY GONZALES- ABOY technical adviser _____________________________________________
get connecteD Share with us what’s on your mind at facebook.com/tolentinestar know what’s trenDing Tweet your thoughts @tolentinestar be in the know Vistit www.tolentinestar.com for more stories.
_____________________________________________
creDits
FRONT COVER MODEL: carl anthony ginete WITH star* (OWNED BY NESKA CENTINA) PHOTO BY nevin crampatanta BACK COVER GRAPHICS BY nevin crampatanta
*NO ANIMALS WERE HARMED
about thE coVEr shadows When light is cast on an object from different angles, different shades are drawn. But only one angle speaks more of the features of that object. The same goes with leadership. Different characteristics speak of what your leader was, is, or is coming to be, yet only one is common to most of his followers. Standing with head held high, the leader takes, commands, and helps his followers to stand tall. But a great leader does more than that – immersing himself into the realness that his followers have been taking. A great leader immerses himself into the lives of his followers to understand their capabilities. He carries the heaviest burden, always. There’s no perfect leadership. There will always be other followers who are difficult to be pleased. That is where taking risks comes in. So, move along to go along.
acKnowlEdgmEnts brgy. capt. joestarr banDojo anD THE TAPI-ANONS for sharing to us your stories and insights; may you continue in bringing positive change in the community; the stuDents for sharing to us your stories and insights; may you continue to support Tolentine Star in the same way we have served you with our words; genn tomas for always providing us shelter until the completion of this magazine and for your immeasurable kindness; rev. Fr. louie gabinete, oar for granting our every request of staying at the TS office to accomplish this issue;
Dr. carlos eDuarDo legaspi, jr. for trusting the publication in bringing information to the Recolect community; and IVY GONZALES-ABOY for your continuing support and for always motivating us.
IMPRESS BOX HERE
NOW YOU SEE ME, NOW YOU DON’T:
NINJA STUDENTS IN ACTION! W
hen you think that your stealth in skipping class, some students will prove that you are merely a novice. These students are the masters of the art of Ninjetsu with their disappearing acts in class while leaving a trail or red ballpen marks of X your prof’s attendance sheet.
Yes, they are the those who you never knew you were in the same class with until it’s exam week where they seem to magically surface out of thin air. They are commonly referred to us ninja students or even the ghosts of the classroom, their lives a complete mystery for all.
Swallowing a Deadly Bait
“I’ve learned my lesson the hard way,” shares Ron*, a sophomore who regrets almost flunking a major subject because of his absences from class. Shortly after being reprimanded by his professor, he eventually stopped spending hours at computer shops. Without attention, interest, and proper time management, a student is likely to encounter challenges that may hamper his or her academic progress, just like Ron. A tight schedule demanding a battle against freedom to do what one wants and the lack of sleep are just two of the many struggles in the daily lives of college students. In the same way, schooling revolves around classes, discussions, lectures, daily masses, ‘litanies’ or whatever one may like to call then. Unfortunately, these pillars of the university’s everyday process are exactly what ninja students take for granted. Financial inadequacy also accounts for some of the absences of a few students. “I commute from Cadiz to UNO-R every day and there will be times when money is just so scarce I fail to attend my classes,” said freshmen student Rita*, who has been doing well with her studies despite economic
by Jamie Jelle Guino-o disparity. the same sentiment with Paceño. There also exist a few students who seem “Aside from the value of education, to view school as a potential ground for practically speaking, I am paying for my meeting people, establishing friendships, and education. By attending classes, I am giving socializing with them. Keanne* admits to being justice to what my parents work hard for. It’s motivated to go to school just so she could also important to attend classes because class bond and hang out with her friends during and discussions done in the classroom can really after their laboratory and lecture classes. help me understand our lessons,” said Regina Being a student Cassiel Delito, a BSED circles around a huge – English II Dean’s responsibility, and Lister. Being excused does consequences await Being excused not guarantee those who neglect it. does not guarantee the redemption of Jared*, a senior student the redemption of neglected student who is now well-aware neglected student duties. of the nuts and bolts duties. of student hurdles “Waking up at pointed out that laziness will never get any 7:30 in the morning can be a burden; how student anywhere and that in the end, all the much more if you wake up with a head-drilling difficulties – from deadlines beating the life fever? This may result to missed tests that may out of you to pulling stressful all-nighters – will affect my class performance, but the thing is, all eventually pay off. health is more important than grades and I will not let a piece of paper dictate my future”,” said Jessel May M. Solinap, a Dean’s Lister Footprints on Beaten Tracks who admits to rarely being absent because of College of Business and Accountancy occasional medical issues. Guidance Counselor Mark Jasson Garcelan Garcelan also reminds us that the University warns the students that they should prepare population is composed of students from themselves for whatever consequences their different socio-economic status and this actions can create. “It is important to reconsider several factors should never be a hindrance to attaining the education that each individual deserves. It’s that may contribute to this particular student just all a matter of interest and motivation. behavior,” said Garcelan. College is whole lot different from high Ditching classes might be easy for some, school. In high school, the teacher can provide but for others, it can be as difficult as finding a a considerable amount of privileges – like time needle in the haystack. to cope up with the lessons that a student “For me, classes are important because may miss or providing incentives to those most of the time, what was discussed a day who never miss anything in class. However, before is not likely to be discussed again the in college, it’s different. You no longer have day after. It can be hard to cope up once you that luxury, and you have to be responsible for go back to school,” said Mae Ann Paceño, a every move you make – so maybe it’s time to dedicated BS Medical Technology sophomore ditch those ninja skills once and for all. who rarely skips her classes. Academically inclined students also share
photo by jose madison crampatanta, jr. photo manipulation by nevin crampatanta
SHADOWS TOLENTINE STAR 02
EVERY DROp-OUT COUNTS by Maegan Fruto
P
assing the exam after sleepless nights, acing your project despite shortcomings and graduating that draining course will surely make one feel being on cloud nine. But, what if you lose interest? What if you are enthusiastic on embarking on a journey, but as the road gets bumpier with their twist and turns of events, you back out and stop? What if after all your efforts, sacrifices, and struggles in your course, all your plans begin to fade?
graphics by nevin crampatanta
03 TOLENTINE STAR truth as it happEns
Skipping your classes, barely passing your exam, and low quality output on school works are manifestations of losing interest in your studies. It will also lead to dropping the course and to ultimately stop schooling.
“There were times when I felt like I was carrying a very heavy burden that I did not know what to do,” said *Emil as he remembers his first year in college. “I was very eager to pursue my engineering course, but when I was caught up between pressure and a ton of responsibilities, I laid low. I lacked interest. I ended up killing time, I became a slacker,” he added. Emil also emphasized that one of the reasons why he took his course for granted was that he was “unfamiliar with how college life runs”. Culture shock, that’s what they call it. Due to his intimate attachment to high school, he had a hard time grasping that fact that he was actually in college and preparing for his future. Also, he was afraid of being the sole chairperson of his life. Aside from studies, he worried about his meals for the day, the payment for the rent of the boarding house, and also his social life. Once in college, you may think that you are still unprepared for these responsibilities on your shoulder but are left with no choice but to push through. “I’m having trouble coping with my subjects: quizzes here, assignments there, and crazy and complicated schedule everywhere,” John Patrick Boncalon, freshman Pharmacy student, said. “I am also having a hard time conforming to the system’s standard – the society, demanding for perfection and the people, who are getting into my nerves,” he apprised. Once in a new environment, you need
guts to adapt to its corresponding norms and protocol. That transition brings complexity and sometimes traps you in a labyrinth. The trick is whether you let yourself be the prey or vanquish all the odds or get out from it and be the predator. “I think I lost my interest on my studies before because I was young back then,” *Michelle, BSED 4, said. She grew up in a family of educators which made her decide to take education as a course. Everything was falling into its proper places when she realized that it was not the suitable one for her. Now, she contemplates whether to drop her course or pursue it especially that she is graduating. Fritz B. Palma, COF and Peer Facilitator of the University’s SDPC, pointed additional reasons why students tend to lack interest with their course. “Some students are forced by their parents to take a particular course even if is very transparent that the students do not have interest with that course at all,” he said. Palma also cited peer pressure to be a reason why students take their course for granted. He remarked, “Because they (students) do not want to be left out, they would prefer to take a course not suited for their capability. They deem to be with their group of friends and suffer the later consequences than to take the other way around.” Most college students who are experiencing peer pressure capitulate and just go with the flow. They become
complacent and unaware that what they are doing will possibly turn against them. “Another is financial instability. There are students who are eager to pursue the course but will not continue schooling due to lack of resources and monetary assistance,” Palma said. Skipping your classes, barely passing your exam, and low quality output on school works are manifestations of losing interest in your studies. It will also lead to dropping the course and to ultimately stop schooling. Emil, Jon, and Michelle are working things out right now. Emil has found a new way to be interested with his course and is ready to face new challenges. Jon has adjusted with his college life with the help of his parents, classmates, and friends. Michelle has decided to continue learning her teaching profession and gives an assurance that she will graduate. On the other hand, Sir Palma gave an advice to students who are gradually losing interest with their course. “When you choose a course, choose not by the brain, but through your heart. Feel if that is the one that makes you happy and fulfilled, because if only students do this, there is no drop-out rate. Your interest in your course will really help you to know your self-worth,” he said. To quit or not to quit? The choice is yours to make. *not their real names
SHADOWS TOLENTINE STAR 04
Column
UNSECURED SECURITY
Yes, there are reasons for one to be scared of approaching the incident but according to the report, everyone just watched in terror – even the guards.
A NARCOLEPTIC LIONESS JEANHER MAE MAHINAY
graphics by anamae lachica
05 TOLENTINE STAR TRUTH AS IT HAPPENS
young male (presumably a student), in civilian clothes, was mauled by more or less seven equally young men right in front of me. I saw one of the guys kicking, pointing his cellphone to the victim to record every single detail of violence. The victim, already beaten and weak, ran inside the University campus to seek the help of the guards. That was only when the suspects fled to different directions. How violent can this generation get? Last September 16, a UNO-R student was beaten by seven other still unknown men of his age. He was kicked and punched and the beaters even had the courage to record their own doings on one of their phones. What’s even perplexing was that it all happened in front of the University’s gate - at the pedestrian lane. It’s sickening to see that nobody even dared to help that poor student. Yes, there are reasons for one to be scared of approaching the incident but according to the report, everyone just watched in terror – even the guards. So how far really is the guards’ duty in protecting the school and most importantly the students’ safety? Is it because it’s already outside the school’s premises even though it all happened just a stone’s
throw away from the University? And of course, is the fact that the one being brutally beaten was a student of the school they’ve sworn to protect not enough? The University has put on a fair amount of effort when it comes to improving its security with the additional guards and installation of CCTV cameras inside the campus. Yes, it’s safe inside but the fact that we obviously don’t live inside the campus means that we need to go out from its safe haven. Then, it’s where everything changes. Once one steps out of the gates, there’s no telling what will happen next. Throughout the years, I have witnessed violence that occurs right outside the gates – teachers’ and students’ phones were snatched, someone was stabbed to death among others. So, what is the real problem? Is it because of the turf issue? When guards decide to say ‘Once you step out, you’re not our business?’ Or is it the lack of police presence not only in Libertad but in Bacolod City as a whole? How about both? Yes, whatever the student did at the time for him to have had that gruesome fate remains a mystery. But what’s mysterious is how we as a society has failed to help.
bATTLES Of THE
UNDERGROUND
A CLOSER LOOK AT BACOLOD’S MUSIC SCENE by JEANHER MAE MAHINAY
I
n today’s time, the radio and TV are filled with a constant cycle of artists like Nikki Minaj, Pitbull, Taylor Swift or J Lo. The radio and TV are constantly giving the public a repetition of “hit” songs and people are getting tired of them. If you want a breath of fresh air, then, it’s now found deep in the underground.
shadows TOLENTINE STAR 06
AA
midst the dark shadows of the night life in Bacolod, the City conceals in it the cries of many artists - musicians whom the City of Smiles have given birth to and cradled in her very clutches. Of course by underground, we do not mean the dirt-like that awaits us after we depart our lives but the ever buzzing music scene of the city.
small sins, louD music
underground music scene. “Make songs. We want to inspire others to compose especially now that most bands tend to just do covers of songs,” he adds. They share that when a band plays variety, they play it for the crowd to win their favor. With the path they choose, they admit that not most of the people get their drift. But even though it may please less people, they get to play what they truly feel like. They have more freedom to express who they are. He also added that they always remind the crowd during their gigs. “When we play, we always try our best to play our own music although we sometimes add in a cover or two,” shares Deadman. “Another advantage if you make your own music is that people will recognize who you are. When they hear you, they’ll say ‘Oh, it’s them!’ Unlike when you just make covers of other people’s songs, they’ll just say ‘Oh, other bands already played this’. That why we always put in our minds to create our own music. And it’s also something you can be proud of one day- it’s your own,” Mark gleefully THEY SHARE THAT WHEN A BAND PLAYS advices. VARIETY, THEY PLAY IT FOR THE CROWD TO So, are there ever any WIN THEIR FAVOR. WITH THE PATH THEY plans for the group to CHOOSE, THEY ADMIT THAT NOT MOST OF jump over the fence and THE PEOPLE GET THEIR DRIFT. BUT EVEN go mainstream? THOUGH IT MAY PLEASE LESS PEOPLE, THEY “Of course there is. GET TO PLAY WHAT THEY TRULY FEEL LIKE. Everyone wants to be famous one day. We THEY HAVE MORE FREEDOM TO EXPRESS sometimes wish to gain WHO THEY ARE. recognition from the mainstream people who loves listening to love songs and all that but it’s fusion really,” he adds. really different from that pull when you play The band started last June 2012 and has your passion which tells you ‘This is it man! since been making original songs about human This is Rock!’,” Mark energetically answers. emotions and behavior. Such lyrical theme Likewise, they share that most is evident from tracks such as Respeto, an underground bands who got to break through alternative song about Respect and Yutanisya, into the mainstream acts are forced to make which is about having grudges. songs that are more pleasing to the public to generate more money. That’s why it’s called compose not Decompose the mainstream because once you get into the The band takes pride in their original current, you’ll get washed off. compositions. “For example, Kamikazee before, when they “Why not create your own music?,” Mark were an underground band, they were so loud advices those who plan to venture into the and expressive – galong. Now, they are more One example of an underground band that’s starting to make a name for itself is Pikadilyos. This quartet of middle aged men has rocked the city’s music scene for two years now. The name of the band which they explained came from the Spanish word peccadillo meaning a small, relatively unimportant offense or sin. The band is composed of Angelo “Deadman” Gallardo on vocals, Mark Carlo Octoso on guitars, Sharwi Octoso on bass, and Jhayner “Rex” Hubahib on drums. They admit that they are a result of a side project since each of them originated from different bands. “We each are into different genres. Rex here is more of Jazz while I’m more into experimental sound, he (points to Sharwi) is more on reggae and metal. So we are basically a side project to create a new flavour,” Mark said. “But as a whole, if you listen to us we are more into a heavy kind of music but there are times that you’ll hear bits of reggae. It’s a
photos by christelle villaruz
07 TOLENTINE STAR truth as it happEns
into pop rock although we know that they are still capable of playing raw like before, they have to because they are ordered to. But we have nothing against mainstream musicians,” says Deadman.
money anD passion
It’s not all fun and jam in Bacolod’s stage though. When it comes down to payment, the band admits that mainstream music has certainly washed out most of the economic benefits compared to the underground which doesn’t cater to the public’s taste. “There is a lack of exposure and support when it comes to bands like us. That is mostly one of the struggles of local underground bands. Here in Bacolod, most bands rely on small underground events that they have organized themselves just to help each other as well as enjoy,” says Mark. Things were so hard at times that they almost decided to quit. They shared that when the band has to travel to perform at distant places, they have to invest money in their trips even though the pay is not enough to compensate for their hard work and expenses. “If you play underground music, you’re not paid. All the expenses are yours – you carry all your stuff, your efforts and sweat,” says Deadman. “But it’s your passion and you’re happy,” he contends. Away from the limelight, the group shares that they live a pretty normal life especially when it comes to finding means and ways of living. They are aware that their musical career
is not enough to support their families. While they are not surrounded by loud stereos during gigs, the group admits to having normal jobs. Angelo and Mark are both call center agents. A family man himself, Mark even finds extra time working as a disk jockey at a local radio station in order to add some extra financial support for his two young sons. “It’s really hard to make ends meet nowadays,” says Mark.
passion rules
When asked what was it that stopped them from quitting, the band unanimously agreed that it’s the passion for what they’re doing that inevitably pushes them to go on. “Even during times when you are about to quit, there is certainly something that pulls you back,” Mark adds, “It’s the passion.” Deadman also adds that another factor that has glued them together for the past two years is the group members themselves who always manage to support and urge each other to continue on their journey. “We sometimes set times wherein we don’t need to practice but just hang out and talk because most of the time, we just see each other during gigs since everyone else has their own jobs to attend to,” shares Mark. Indeed, it seems as though nothing can stop this quartet from jamming and screaming their lungs out during performances. They share that there were times on stage when one member (they would not tell who) collapsed from all the head banging.
There was even a time when an equipment malfunctioned and suddenly started catching fire while they were performing. True to their words, this did not stop the group and they just merely kicked the thing off the stage and went on with their unshakable performance. A few months ago, last June, Mark’s index finger was unfortunately bitten off by a dog. This caused a bit of a set-back for the group as they waited for it to heal but once the bandage was off, they were back rocking.
Future plans
The band’s ultimate goal for the next five years is to release two albums of their original compositions and be a good example for other local bands in Bacolod. “We want to be one of those bands that can give pride to Bacolod and inspire other bands as well – to be like our senior bands such as IMO (In Memory Of) and Salamander who was able to go to Manila and play with bands such as Slapshock and Keso. We inspire to be like them someday, if we can’t be
better than them, then be at least able to reach their level,” Deadman says. After all the talk, there was only one way to end the conversation – music. The band gamely performed two of their songs, Ahas and Respeto. With all the words said, their performance even spoke better. There was a feel of great energy in the air as their head banged and they let go to the sound. All the instruments were cranked to full volume and I couldn’t help but move to the music as well. The superb jamming session they prepared was followed by a calming silence that came with the ringing in the ears and the beating of the hearts. The experience was certainly an awesome breath of fresh air.
shadows TOLENTINE STAR 08
The Other shades of blue and gold by Christian John Alota and Therese Amor Panzo
T
agged as the “Cradle of Excellence”, the University is way more than just distinction and grandeur. Wearing the emblematic blue uniform, UNO-Rians exhibit different facets of virtues that make them stand out among the rest. But what UNO-Rians are famously noted for is the simplicity that conforms in the life of every student. Being simple is just one of the numerous values and traits which incorporates a true UNO-Rian. As to what characteristics define a UNORian, a survey was conducted among 156 students of the University. Given the choices, these are the top qualities that they perceive a student must possess.
thriFty. Ten students agreed that managing money in a careful or wise way is one of the characteristics of a UNORian. “As for me, being cautious in using money is important because it is one of our basic needs. You should identify your priorities especially what you really need,” says Patricia Ibe, a first year student taking Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Banking. Interviews revealed that some students prefer to have pages of books photocopied than buying one or perhaps bringing an extra rice when eating either at the University Canteen or outside food concessionaires – a practical way of being resourceful and stuffing their stomach full without spending too much. resilient. Despite of frustrations, UNO-Rians still rise up and continue whatever they have started. “Smile in every downfall situation and acts of life,” Maria Lourdes Refe, a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy student strongly shares her sentiments toward problems. Seventeen students conceded to strive harder amidst every difficulties faced. Resiliency is a trait that enables a UNO-Rian to become strong, healthy, or successful again after something bad happens. silent achiever. He is
somebody who works quietly
09 TOLENTINE STAR truth as it happEns
without any access to publicity for anyone to see. He doesn’t need to shout to the whole world to announce what he has achieved. Instead, he achieves something because of his hard work that lock up the virtue of being humble. Twenty-two students favored this certain characteristic of a UNO-Rian. When asked what she can say about silent achievers in the University, Marivic Catalan, an accountancy student comments, “They are downto-earth persons. Of course, they are dedicated in achieving their goals. Their passion always takes place in whatever they want to do.”
helpFul. In a lot of ways, helping friends or block mates whenever they miss any lessons in school is a typical UNO-Rian trait. Helping them either by letting them copy notes and for sure, adding a follow-up discussion on the things that they find difficult to understand or by perhaps running an errand for them for which you find no reason to say “no” are just what UNO-Rians are capable of. This further shows the compassionate personality of a UNO-rian in giving service to others whole-heartedly. grounDeD with Faith anD virtues. Results show that majority firmly
believe that a UNO-Rian is guarded with the teachings of the institution that is infused with faith being a Catholic university. Apart from these characteristics, 11 students described UNO-Rians as fashionable, 13 students considered obedience, while 16 students claimed being responsible. Surrounded by these permissive words, each one of us have our own set of definition of things. Indeed, people later discover who they are and what they want to be. In a community, we are individually perceived by everyone. We may differ in style, outlook, and situations in life, but there will always be a common ground for us to share and blend in with people who in return bring out the innate best in us. Indeed, UNO-Rians are formed to live up to the vision and mission upheld by the University depicting the Recoleto way of honing successful individuals in the future.
graphics by nevin crampatanta
History’s Home by John Lester Almosa
They say that houses T are only as good as
the people who live in them. As one walks around the streets of Negros, one may put in mind then, by simply looking at its old houses, that there was a time when its people and culture was simply at it’s finest.
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x H
owever, there are some things that are really not susceptible to change. The island’s physical nature may have transformed, but its core – culture and orientation – remains firm and grounded. This is evident not only in the different fiestas observed by the people but also in the well-preserved ancestral houses that are scattered all over the island.
Balay ni Tana Dicang
Considered as the oldest surviving house in Negros which was built in 1883, this mansion remains unchanged for centuries. The Enrica Alunan-Lizares House, famously known as Balay ni Tana Dicang, is the main ancestral house of the Lizares family, one of the most powerful sugarlords in Negros Occidental. Situated in a 6,000 square meter property in Talisay City, the house is wellmaintained and well-preserved for its age. Its architectural design reflects the style of the era and the family’s way of life in their environment. The two-story mansion is composed of 18 rooms, inclusive of the living and dining rooms, most of which were bedrooms for their 18 children. The lower level of the house, which was used mainly for stocking their farm supplies, is now the reception area for the guests. The second level holds the family’s original and authentic photos by paul justin deoma
11 TOLENTINE STAR TRUTH AS IT HAPPENS
paraphernalia which depict the Filipino Ancestral Architecture. The walls that cover the ground areas are made of stone bound with a mixture of organic mortar, the exterior being clad by rare corals and bricks, concealed with a layer of lime-wash. The interior’s partitions and elements are made of tropical Filipino hardwoods like narra and molave. From outside, Venetian-style window shutters offer an excellent view, aside from protecting the house from heat and letting the air in. Persian-style windows, on the other hand, keep the rain out and provide good ventilation by allowing the light in through the translucent “capiz” shells. This house does not only offer a glimpse of the culture but also give real accounts of the history of the people and their struggles during the times of colonization. “Before, this house was used as one of the Japanese stations,” says the mansion’s curator. The classical “house-of-stone” accommodates the original structure and authentic contents that are concretely tell of
the story of Negros and its culture for more than a century.
Balay ni Tan Juan
Built more than one hundred years ago, this ancestral house is known not only for its unique architectural style but also for its historical value. General Juan Anacleto Araneta, which was an important figure in freeing the province from the Spanish opressors, lived and died in this two-story “Balay na Bato”, which stood witness to the struggles of the people during the dark years of the Hispanic colonization. After the World War II, this house was used as a venue in nurturing high school students and as an office for the DPWH and the National Irrigation Administration until it was donated by the Araneta family to the City of Bago in 1979. With the help of the National Historic Institute, the house was restored in1982 and opened as a lifestyle museum in 1996. “This house has been a museum for 22
“
These three ancestral houses are concrete evidences of how colonial influences have been imprinted in the heart of every Negrense and how they have been preserved and unconsciously lived by for the longest time.
years,” says Clemente del Castillo, curator of the house who also happened to be related to the Araneta family. “I am the great grandson of General Juan Araneta… both my grandmothers were daughters of General Araneta,” he shares. When the museum was opened, there were no pieces of furniture left, “Most of the furniture here were gone… so we bought some of the furniture,” he says. The Bago tourism Office, together with Cecilia Araneta, the then living daughter of General Araneta, were able to sort pieces of furniture that suit the old reference of the house. Today, it is internationally recognized as a museum and is considered as the first community museum in the province that houses antiques, arts, and exhibits that depict the culture, tradition, and everyday life of Bagonhons.
General Aniceto Lacson Ancestral House
Located in the City of Talisay, this ancestral house allows a re-experience of the three generations of colonial rule in the Philippines and a re-visit to the life of the first and only president of the Cantonal Republic of Negros. Built in early 1880, this mansion is owned by the Lacsons, one of the biggest and wealthiest sugar planters of the province, and became the seat of government of the short-lived Cantonal Republic of Negros which was ceased after surrendering to the Americans in 1899.
Though the house is not in its best form, the Spanish-style architecture with the touch of orient is still evident that immensely admires every passerby. At first look, its huge size stands out which reflects the vast power and stature of the Lacsons. The house was influenced by the 19thcentury floral architecture with its ground floor made of bricks and coral stones covered with hardwood, mostly molave and tindalo. Large doors in every room in the second floor give good ventilation; it allows air and light to circulate inside the house. The ground floor houses a small and private chapel where the family and their workers hold their worship services. Despite the length of time that has passed, the house still stands at the center of their vast hacienda, reflecting its owner’s authority. Its strong presence tells not just its architectural heritage but also its classic history and authentic culture. Today, the house is under renovation through the General Aniceto Lacson
Ancestral Home Foundation organized and joined by the Lacson-Claparols family. It is now owned and managed by the Claparols family, the fourth-generation descendants of Don Aniceto Lacson. These three ancestral houses are concrete evidences of how colonial influences have been imprinted in the heart of every Negrense and how they have been preserved and unconsciously lived by for the longest time. The rich and well-celebrated culture of the people as reflected by these houses depict the dominant orientation that some colonies have left out during their twocenturies-two-decades-long occupation. The Negros Island may have evolved from a mere parcel of land into a wellestablished politico-social institution that it is today. Nevertheless, regardless of the transformation it has gone through, its genuine culture and immortal contents will continue to tell its crude history.
SHADOWS TOLENTINE STAR 12
doub e ife by Valerie Anne Buenconsejo
T
he internet is full of possibilities and social media has catered to every youth’s fantasy to a certain extent that some have decided to live a different life and a different persona online.
Cool girls, rich kids, school varsities, campus brainies – these are just some of the few stereotypes that teenagers have identified to separate from and to divide themselves. Status is so important that most kids would do anything to be categorized or to stay away from labels. These labels come with their certain requirements and demands and some think that being themselves will not be able to work it. “I can’t show my real identity to the public because they just simply don’t like the real me,” said Anne*. She admits to making a fake identity just to get the favor of the public. “Who I am in the social media, how I act with my friends, and what I do in public are my different identities,” she adds. She shares that online; she is a completely different person. “Welcome to the world of Anne v.2.0 on social
These labels come with their certain requirements and demands and some think that being themselves will not be able to work it. media, for sure in this world you would love me and even think I am as cool as anyone,” she shares. She admits that she constantly searches about the latest music release, listens to it, and pretends that she loves it even when she doesn’t. She frequently checks out the latest happening on the internet and gives her opinion with what most people would believe. “These things are part of the lie that I built,” she confessed. According to Andrew Halls, Headmaster at King’s College Wimbledon, constant scrutiny online leaves many teenagers feeling like ‘the hopelessly inadequate stars of their own second-rate biopics’. He also added that young people are increasingly tormented by a cult of photo by paul justin deoma
13 TOLENTINE STAR TRUTH AS IT HAPPENS
self-consciousness. “They know that the world is competitive, and they are surrounded by images not just of the impossibly beautiful, but of the incredibly wealthy, or the incredibly bright. How can they compete?” he asked. “On Facebook, I got used to pretend as a “good-girl” which means that the things I post should not offend anybody. I always want people to be encouraged to hit the like button and notice it,” Anne said. According to her, it all started when she saw how her friend got bullied on Facebook because of an honest revelation about herself. “From then on, I kept in mind to maintain the ideal personality I have built online. People only notice what is nice or what is cool, I won’t have the chance to be on the spotlight if I would ever dare show them my real personality.” “I have not forgotten the real Anne, but that image can only be shown when no one is watching,” Anne said bitterly. “I am afraid to be hurt, I am afraid to be rejected, I am afraid to be me.” On the other hand, others tend to be more realistic on Facebook. Some used the social media as a way of self-expression. Unlike Anne who uses social media to make the perfect ideal version of herself, Rica* uses it to break free from the fake her in reality. “In Facebook, I could voice out my idea and I could tell to everyone who I am,” Rica said. She shares that while she is shy and more controlled when it comes to saying her opinions in real life, she is more vocal and
brave online. Anne and Rica are just few of the youth who are having a hard time being who they truly are. They may have different takes with their own social network personas, but they have the same issues when it comes to revealing who they truly are. Fredric Neuman, M.D. the Director of the Anxiety and Phobia Center at White Plains Hospital wrote in his blog that it is commonplace for people to try to present themselves as if they were more attractive and desirable than they really are. It is reasonable, if we are deficient in some important way, to strive to be better—and, along the way, pretend for a while that we are better. In these matters, we become the people we pretend to be. Persons with a secure sense of themselves can pretend-- in certain situations, in certain ways—to be someone a little different without feeling untrue to themselves. “It is like putting on a costume and playing a role—and then, later on, stepping out of the role when the play is over,” he adds. With all the pretentions and identity snatching, what else still remains real? A man can wear a tux to hide his rugged fashion sense, a woman can apply make-up to cover the blemish she has on her face, but can a person hide his personality for a moment? Can you still recall who you were before the world told you who you should be? *not their real names
A man can never hide from his shadow even when he is six feet under the ground.
photo manipulation by alejo antonio mondejar words by jessan cabunsol
dihon: raging artistic activism by Cherry Mae Cordova
15 TOLENTINE STAR TRUTH AS IT HAPPENS
L
ately, activism has taken a lot of different faces. The usual shout of rage for social change by banner-toting angry citizens has become ornamented with murals and effigies and flames, creating a hard-hitting and unique way of expression by progressive artists.
With this, the masses’ opinion has not become available in the situation of the marginalized and as a tool for education, words alone, but also in the form of shapes, lines, and colors. In awareness, and social transformation,” he shares. the Philippines, this is the trend among protesters. Progressive DIHON’s works such as murals, posters, paintings, and other artists and citizens unite to air side and win battles, defeating the popular art forms are being exhibited in public places like evils of the present time. schools, churches, galleries, and public parks, and are often This kind of expression is called the Protest Art or Proletariat commissioned by mass organizations and were used in protest Art, a creative advocacy which spans back to the 19th century, rallies and marches in the province. a time in which the famous painter Juan Luna depicted the Translating the masses’ experiences to canvas, progressive struggle of Filipinos under the Spanish colony through his artists must accurately understand the people’s plight. “We painting called “Spolarium” - an allegory of the tumultuous also bring our talent in art and our advocacy to help the people, relationship between the Philippines and its colonizer, Spain. in urban poor communities, we immerse with them, conduct It then took a more vital role in the lives of the Filipinos during art workshops, and interact with them,” he says as he tells the the Marcos regime when artist groups like the Nagkakaisang story of how they have helped in rebuilding the communities Progresibong Artista at Arkitekto or the NPAA and Kaisahan destroyed by natural calamities and evils of time (feudal were formed. These were groups of fine arts and relations and capitalism). architecture students who were originally According to the book Protest/Revolution from the militant youth group Kabataang Art in the Philippines 1970-1990, written by Makabayan. art critic and University of the Philippines NPAA and Kaisahan pioneered the Professor Alice Guillermo, protest art movement in art that exposes the is a form of social commentary which Art, as people used to true conditions of the society, the sets itself against social, political, think, is not merely social realism, which then gave birth and economic conditions. Although for artists and their to many progressive art groups there are lots of artistic and visual expression’s sake. like Dibuhista nga Naghili-ugyon sa portrayal in protest art, the purpose Art can also be used Negros, commonly known as DIHON. of it lies not merely on depiction and to strike corrupt DIHON, a cause-oriented group expression. It is about waking the administrations and of progressive artists made of Fine socio-political consciousness of the state repressions. Arts and Architecture students and people. professionals, focuses on its mission “Our works of art should not only of promoting awareness in the society reflect our perceptions of what is, but also through protest art. our insights into what is to be,” Kaisahan boldly It was in the late 1980s that this group was says about their art. formed, a time in which the thirst for freedom and Just like how protesters are being criticized as activists democracy welled up the necks of oppressed Filipinos, paving and leftists, DIHON shares, “People can call us whatever they like the way for revolutionary efforts to take place. to call us, militants, leftists, activists, we do not mind. For as long Rafael Burdeos, DIHON chairperson, says artists have long as we amplify the people’s cries for change through our artworks, been taking part in the Filipinos’ fight for independence. as long as the imperialist forces exist, we will stand up holding Satirizing the presence of the Americans, Spanish friars, and our brushes for the helpless masses.” corrupt officials and telling the real situation of the Filipino Art, as people used to think, is not merely for artists and people through painting and other forms of art, they have their expression’s sake. Art can also be used to strike corrupt already established a rich resource for social action and protest. administrations and state repressions. Whether people admire “Being a group which embeds its works with pro-poor and it or not, activism blanketed with art is a part of the Filipino pro-people struggle, we do not just do art for the sake of being people’s shared cultural heritage, one which binds communities appreciated as an artwork, we do it to espouse the causes of together and shapes the country’s identity. the people. We are just using art as a medium of depicting
photo by alejo antonio mondejar
SHADOWS TOLENTINE STAR 16
Column
Ideas vs Other Ideas
But there will always be people who will understand and respect your ideas. They are the people who think the same as you do.
E BIG EYES
JESSAN CABUNSOL
graphics by nevin crampatanta
17 TOLENTINE STAR TRUTH AS IT HAPPENS
ach one of us has our own ideas. Some are great and some, unfortunately, are not. But how and when do we say if my ideas or yours are good or not? Well, it all depends on the knowledge of the people with whom we are sharing our ideas and, of course, how they think. We live in a world of people with different minds. Minds that tell us how intelligent a person is. Minds that give us thoughts anchored with the things we see in real life. Each one of us sees every person to be different from each other and what we see in others, is also different from what others see in them. There are times that you think that you are smart for some people and dumb for others. But, have you asked yourself why people around you think you are smart or dumb though you talk with them in same way? People who think you are smart might be idiots because they have no idea of what you are talking about, and they find it amazing. However, people who think you are dumb may be very smart because they know that what you are talking about is pointless. But there will always be people who will understand and respect your ideas. They are the people who think the same as you do.
It is hard to make your ideas convincing to other people. It may be easy on the other side. There is no assurance of encouraging everybody to bear with your ideas. There will always be others to contradict your points. But the good thing about people who oppose you is that they make you think how to improve your ideas. How then can you make most people find your ideas great? Ideas, in the first place, are good. It’s up to you to make them sound better by presenting their usefulness. Ideas are great to every person who benefits from them. Your ideas, in different aspects, should be useful to different people. Another way to draw the people’s attention to them is to make them sound new. It is just a plus – to learn new things. To encourage others to take part in executing your ideas into reality, you should involve them in it. In that way, they would feel they are important to others. It is a matter of give and take or take then give. You have your ideas and I have my own. And it’s all up to us to make them good. Combine them? Better. But fifty percent could worsen them. What do you think?
STRIppING YOURSELf
OUT Of SOCIETY’S MASK N
by Danielle Francis Olsen
ot all people enjoy their God-given privilege to live with their own identities. There are those who live with borrowed personalities, there are those who define themselves by the influence of the people around them, and there are those who unwillingly do things to go with the flow because there are those who choose to live within the limits set by social norms. There are those who choose to conform. DeFining conFormity Conformity can simply show in the way you change your fashion style because of the influence of your friends, the way you pretend to be an avid fan of your barkada’s adored love team or the way you change your views and opinions to “fit in” with the majority. Conformity means change, not for your own, but for you to become what others compel you to be, what society wants you to become. But why wear a mask when
you can be yourself? When you can free yourself from the chains set by social limits? without the masks Conformity, like most things in life, is but a product of our own choices and decisions. There are those who have chosen not to deviate from social norms and there are those who have chosen to take the path less travelled by and got out even better. Norielle Meñez, 16 years old, is a first year college student taking BS Accountancy in the University. She’s more than just your average teenager; she
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TeAchers cAn give Their sTudenTs someThing To live by in more wAys ThAn one.
wears a turban over her head, covers most of her body up with baggy clothes, and prays at almost the same exact times everyday. In the eyes of society, she is someone who most of us would almost automatically stereotype to be an outcast in a Catholic University, a Muslim. Norielle grew up a Catholic but got converted when she was in second year. It wasn’t easy for her, for her change in religion also meant the change in how society saw her. But she didn’t budge. She pushed through with her religion, learned to live a new way but never lost track of what was important, the way she sees herself. “Your religion is not what totally defines you. It is one of our solid beliefs to strengthen the bonds within a Muslim Ummah (community) so it is common for us to stick with our fellow Muslims as much as possible but it was my choice to enroll in UNO-R, fully acknowledging that it is a Catholic university and I didn’t find anything wrong with it. I never felt different since the moment I first stepped here. I don’t treat myself any different, so the people around me do the same,” she shares. Norielle, fits in perfectly with her class, having quite a number of friends and participates to any activities she might get herself involved in while keeping her tradition intact and respecting the Catholic beliefs she learns inside the classroom. “I am used to being with Catholics and Christians since I was in elementary and although I did experience a few bumps along the way of growing up, I haven’t changed the way I perceive myself. I am a Muslim and proud,” she adds. believing yourselF Cazzandra Ysabel Veloria, a college Junior, who has survived Accounting Technology for the past two years in UNO-R, was born with dwarfism. The words putot, cute, and unano, are but a few of the words some people graphics by nevin crampatanta
19 TOLENTINE STAR truth as it happEns
would throw at her upon seeing her physical disability. “It’s funny really how I only realized my disability when I reached sixth grade. I finally noticed how taller my classmates were and what the other kids would occasionally call me made sense. I even asked my mother if I was adopted, because all members of our family seemed pretty normal except for me,” she says. Despite this, however, Cazzy eventually saw pass what narrow minds thought of her and proved to them that she can still rise higher above them, given her height. She has a knack for drawing and dancing and excels quite well in both; in fact during the Mass Dance competition during U-Week 2014, she was interviewed by a TV reporter for giving a brilliant performance. “I take their criticisms as a compliment rather than an insult. Because of them, I learned to have more courage and stand on my own and I also learned to value the real people around me like my family who have supported and protected me all the way,” she adds. If anything, Cazzy is a living proof that no matter how small society deems us, physically or not, it shouldn’t limit the measure of what we can do and what we will become. “I am fully aware of my disability, I have physical limits like how I easily get tired because I have short legs but I don’t see myself anything less. It’s just like what Barbie says, ‘Small or big, there is only a difference you can make,” Cazzy shares. knowing yourselF Teachers can give their students something to live by in more ways than one. Miss Dai Flu*, 29, a female teacher in the University, shares her story of caring less about what other people think of her and her tattoos. “I got my first tattoo when I was in college;
the other one was from four years ago. I got them for no particular reason, I just felt like it. Of course I had to hide the first one from my dad, but I went on because my mom knew. I was only concerned about my family, the rest, I really don’t care,” she says. Most people would think twice before getting a tattoo in fear of not getting a job, let alone losing one, but Miss Dai, knows herself better and has a different perspective on job qualifications. “My first tattoo was hidden, so it was OK for me. Later on, I decided to have a second tattoo since I realized that those things don’t really define who you are. It’s your work ethics, your abilities and your character that matters in the work place, but it doesn’t mean that if I’m comfortable with my tattoos, I can just go around showing them to the ‘Fathers’,” she adds. For Miss Dai, social norms are just standards set on some tradition, belief or religion or whatever the case may be, which is set by society to guide the behaviour and appearance of people. “The sad thing is most people are afraid to deviate from them because they fear discrimination. Life is short to waste it pretending to be someone you are not. Do what makes you happy, as long as you are not stepping on anyone else’s happiness. People will always judge you no matter what you do or what you like so might as well be true to yourself,” she reminds. Miss Dai Flu does not encourage anyone to get a tattoo but her story tells us not to fear living the way we want to. In the end, the consequence of not being “in” with the group is but a drop in the ocean compared to living your life in the shadows of what others expect you to. Conform all you want but remember that each individual is his own person. Following norms is OK, but let us not fool or lose ourselves in the process.
Tunakbo ka man
patungong liwanag, sa kadiliman mo’y ‘di ka lalampas.
photo by nevin crampatanta words by john kaye Delostrico
can you keep
a secret? by Alyssa Marie Arceño
W
hen you love someone, things go by and you just want to tell the whole world that you’re madly, deeply in love with that person. Who’s stopping you anyway? Unless, there are reasons to hide that little attachment of yours, to hide that secret love for goodness’ sake.
the parents’ no “Because there are still a lot of bawals (prohibitions),” says *Mike, talking about his high school relationship with *Trina. The two decided to keep their relationship a secret. “They’re (Trina’s family) sort of traditional.” They had what he describes as a bumpy and rough relationship for the past two years. Then, it became worse when Trina left to go to college in Dumaguete while he was left here to also pursue a college degree. “It is hard. You’re here and she’s there. Wala kami ga timing (We couldn’t sync),” he sadly shares. Even though they have a long distance relationship, plus a missing parent approval, they still decided to push through and continue what they have. us against the norms “A transsexual and a guy – they really don’t mix. Do they?” *Natasha asks out of her confusion in understanding sexuality issues, “You just keep it between the two of you when you really know you’re deeply attracted.” Away from the society and away from judgments. Natasha is fully aware that even though she now has, what a real women has, she can’t deny that she was once a man.
graphics by jessan cabunsol
21 TOLENTINE STAR truth as it happEns
LOVING SOMEONE IS A BIG DECISION AND OBLIGATION THAT YOU HAVE TO CONSTANTLY BALANCE AND MAINTAIN IN ORDER FOR IT TO NOT TO FAIL, FALL, AND DISAPPEAR. “They keep on saying that the only thing he (Natasha’s partner) wants from me is money and nothing more,” she shares. Though Natasha has seen the transparency of her partner, she still doubts his interest in her. The only thing that she ought to do is forget everything and whole-heartedly love him. i love her, i love her not “I just went to have something different and exciting,” remembering what he did made *Renz grin in nostalgia. Two-timing his nowex-girlfriend let him experience a hype in their relationship. “Same routine, hatid-sundo, doing same things with the same person - it’s boring.” For him, tasting a different ulam satisfies his desire for other things aside from his
girlfriend’s plain, old, boring interests. But realization did stop in front of Renz’s unfaithful encounter with the two girls. His girlfriend left him after finding out about his other affair through a common friend. To sum it up, it didn’t end up so well with the three of them. Loving someone is a big decision and obligation that you have to constantly balance and maintain in order for it to not to fail, fall, and disappear. Engaging yourself in a relationship isn’t just a game, it must be coupled with weighing in the responsibility and sensitivity not only to your partner but to others that make up your life as well. If it calls for another situation, just put in mind what you can do, what will you do, and what you can’t do if you’re stuck with those take-it-or-leave-it chances.
The harmony in d f Leading the pack S S
r ve o y c or t s
by Nikko Paolo Calumpiano
econd Monday of the month, at exactly eight o’clock in the morning, the Barangay officials of Barangay Tapi, Kabankalan City, once again gathered in the local town square for the Monday Dialogue. Bathing in the golden rising sun’s rays, the officials from different sectors of the community forwarded the residents’ concerns to the ever open ears of Barangay Captain Joestarr Bandojo. Talks were thrown. Answers were proposed. For a moment— that moment—the barriers between the leader and the followers were brought down. It’s magic in motion.
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COVER STORY
There can be no masters where there are no slaves. Yes, but, there can always be followers where there stands tall a firm, decisive, and highly dependable leader. Unity starts when the leader defines himself as what he should be, when the followers identify their places in the in-group, and when harmony is established between those who serve and are served.
alpha
Contrary to what is commonly believed, leadership is never about the leader. It is never about the “who”. It is about the “how”. Three similar letters, two completely different words of different functions. Leadership is a process and it doesn’t solely depend on who’s takingthe position. When asked what the ideal leader is, Mr. Bandojo simply replied [translated] “Well, if you’re a leader, you have to show the people your willingness. Because the people have put you there, as the head of the barangay, you have to serve them well. You have to bring it all back to them.” His eyes remained focused as he kept wearing his smile. He strongly emphasized willingness and transparency in his words. He leaned his arms on the desk and closed his hands together—a tone of serious yet hospitable aura glowed around his whole being. He thoroughly explained as he was asked about the Monday Dialogue that just happened that day. “Every second Monday of the month, I hold that (dialogue) with my personnel. All the basic services… everything else… we update them. Health, infrastructure, new services, everything. The main purpose [of the meeting] is to communicate [with the people]” As seen that morning, all the officials—complete in their uniforms—represented their respective sectors. They have forwarded the people’s s concerns and photos by jose maDison crampatanta, jr.
23 TOLENTINE STAR truth as it happEns
formulated plans of action. That particular morning spoke true of the Barangay Captain’s words. In a democratic style of leadership, the leader shares the decision-making process with his followers. A constant and clear communication is vital to this kind of leadership process. As listed by Santa Clara University of Santa Clara, California, a democratic leader is honest, competent, forward-looking, inspiring, intelligent, fair-minded, broad-minded, courageous, straightforward, and imaginative. Most of which, Mr. Bandojo possesses as evidenced by the progress of the barangay, the people’s responses, and the lower officials’ sentiments.
beta to omega
The words kept flowing out of Mr. Bandojo like sunbeams on an open field. So much has been known about him since then. He finished his Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce Major in Business Management in UNO-R. He has been serving for his second term as a Barangay Captain from being a Barangay Kagawad since 2010. As a leader, he also sees followers as a vital part of the community. He started with a chuckle as he expressed his thoughts about how an ideal follower should be. “Of course, there are those who are really stubborn. But as a leader, you have to show them what good attitude is along with good service. Everything else will follow if the one in position is a role model. You have to show them transparency.” He also added, “Whatever kind of person you are, with your attitude and the way you serve them, your constituents and your people will just follow.” The leader’s actions and character define the followers’ actions and character. Barangay Kagawad Nelson Basilio of the same barangay—a follower and a leader—also added that
There cAn never be A perfecT leAderfollower relATionship. never A perfecT TeAm. buT, There cAn be super TeAms...
a good follower knows and respects the ordinances and rules that have long been established—a form of submission that still empowers the people about their rights and limitations. The form of followership is summed up depending on the follower’s dependency, trust, and involvement with the leader. A follower may be an isolate, a bystander, a participant, an activist, or a diehard. Depending on how one establishes his connection with the community and the leader(s), one can either be an outcast or a part of the “sheeple” (people who are like sheep—too dependent to the shepherd). A participant settles himself to be willing to give time and effort in support of the current system or leadership. At the same time, a participant is vigilant enough to know his own rights as an individual. Just as Barangay Tapi Kagawad Mary Grace Saclolo confirmed, it’s true that “you can’t please everybody”. But what matters is how harmonious the relationship of the leader and the follower in a certain community is. It will all be seen in all the progress and the people’s respect to the ordinances, the officials, and the Barangay as well. Just as Barangay Tapi and its residents are.
the hunt
Harmony is a system. It’s a series of well-established and well-executed plans where every one—leader of follower—is involved. It can be achieved if the relationship between those who walk in the front row and the people who walk behind is firm. Residents in Barangay Tapi speak of good tongue about their leader. They’ve seen how the barangay has changed from “left-behind” to one of the most outstanding barangays of Kabankalan city. It’s the first ever barangay in the City to ever install CCTV cameras in their barangay hall. The town square is wide and clean, and people take pride of how great and functional it is. The facilities and personnel from Health Centers to Service Vehicles and Tanods to Midwives are all products of the remarkable relationship of the barangay’s head and the residents. The key - communication. “...especially in puroks that are on the outskirts (of the barangay), every month, they call for a meeting. So we, the barangay officials, make sure we have one representative who goes to those meetings so that whatever problem they [purok] each have, we may know...” Kagawad Saclolo said. In addition, when asked how a good relationship between leaders and followers work, Mr. Bandojo
responded, “You have to involve the people so that they will know and feel that they are a part of the community, also, so that you’ll know what basic services you can provide them”. Harmony and unity are possible in a community if most—if not all—the members of the group are active participants. Everyone knows and does his function and the communication between each other is crystal clear. Interdependency works when one knows where one is, where one can be, and where one should not be. It’s all about accountability with enough consciousness to one’s limitations.
ddd There are leaders among us. And there are leaders within us. No matter how complex or intricate society is, order is attainable. With discipline, drive, and determination, any Barangay, City, or even Country, can be like Barangay Tapi. A place where everyone plays their part according to their functions. A place where super teams are created. There can never be a perfect leader or follower. But there can be good leadership and good followership. Personality, biases, viewpoints, and beliefs vary among people, but the process—the how— of leadership is all about objectivity. There can never be a perfect leader-follower relationship. Never a perfect team. But, there can be super teams, high performance teams where participative leadership is valued, decision-making processes are effective, communication is clear and open, and interdependency prevails.
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Column
ANONYMITY = BALLS OF STEEL
People act so tough when nobody knows who they are. It’s comparative to being an outcast without being an actual outcast.
B FREAK-A-TIVES
NIKKO PAOLO CALUMPIANO
25 TOLENTINE STAR TRUTH AS IT HAPPENS
anksy once said, “I don’t know why people are so keen to put the details of their private life in public; they forget that invisibility is a superpower.” Who’s Banksy? No one knows. His real identity remains a mystery to almost everyone. But this English man’s works as a graffiti artist, director, political activist and painter are somehow well known in the world especially in the internet. His anonymity gave him dangling, jingling, balls of steel. The same way anonymity did to all of us. But this ideology appears to have been misused and abused. Anonymity triggers the people’s hidden courage making them do or say things they never thought they could. Perhaps, that’s the real power hidden behind the masks of superheroes we love in our favorite comic books and TV shows. Courage and the apparent misuse of it are harvested because basically being unknown is simply a liars game—it’s all in the mind. It’s all just lying to oneself. Lies that are crafted to convince oneself to believe in a fabricated truth—to make oneself do things for selfish reasons. Lies to circumvent unfavorable events or make things work for the liar himself. Putting two and two together and it’s the perfect formula for ruthlessness. Anonymity is like wearing a mask. It takes away or reduces the person’s accountability on actions that he makes. It’s easy: If you don’t know who kicked your butt, who will you blame? Or,
on the other hand, if you’ll have the power to be invisible, you’ll be getting out there kicking other people’s butts. This is why internet bashing is so rampant, freedom walls are so in and abused, and graffiti art works are becoming a channel for propaganda. This is why blogs and social media has become the world’s new venue for pointing out faults in society—faults that each and every one is accountable for. This is why internet trolls and cybercrimes exist. This is why society is slowly killing itself. People act so tough when nobody knows who they are. It’s comparative to being an outcast without being an actual outcast. One is still an active member of the society while remaining unaccountable to his words, decisions, or actions. Pretty irresponsible if you ask me. It’s been taken advantage of ever since. Humans are known to be capable of lying at the age of two—the age of Symbolic Thinking according to Jean Piaget’s Cognitive Development Theory. It is hard-wired within us that when we lie to ourselves and are unseen, we think we become indestructible. The power of the alter-ego. Anonymity changes the face of world. It might hurt or protect. It might build or destroy. It’s a white elephant— a gift and a curse that builds or breaks nations. It’s one of those responsibilities (or burden) we all carry. A responsibility that we should all take seriously. After all, invisibility is a superpower. graphics by joebert valdez
Urban Legends
graphics by joebert valDez
shadows TOLENTINE STAR 26
bilanggong mga kamay by John Kaye Delostrico
buwan Ang gabing iyon ay kakaiba. Ang nais may ing war at g ana liliw ay bilog, nag kumukutiing bitu mga ng bay Kasa hin. sabi ng kutitap at mistulang may mensahe gin han ng pi dam mga Ang ipinaparating. ibang kaka may ay t bala mga g iyan sa kan ing ang lamig. Sa kanyang paglalakad, tang ang glig kuli mga ng i nakabibinging hun rdya sa gwa g isan ara, Verg ie Lou ni naririnig niyang ian agaw UNO-R, nang gawin ang nak pagro-roving. ent iyon Bandang Grade School Departm se. Hou malapit sa Sta. Monica Retreat Sta. ng unta pap “Naglalakad ako ‘nun apit mal g nan ako gilan nati Monica pero ie habang na’ko sa Grandstand,” sabi ni Lou . iyon binabalikan ang gabing g mga Sa ilalim ng Grandstand, mayroon ng sahig y anta kap na ana bint mga na maliliit
rto sa ng paseo. Kung papasukin ang kwa bintana mga sa aw atan ilalim nito, ang mat paa’t mga ang at g sahi g tson dire ay sa pader . binti ng mga taong naglalakad g isip. “Una, nagtaka ako’t nagdalawan i hind , uti mab ng ko nan ning Pero nang ti ,” dagdag ngin ti g kon una sa ali kam nag ako kabang ni Louie na kita sa mga mata ang n. naramdaman noo ng sa Kamay. Maraming mga kamay. Gali bot inaa na pilit mga bintana. Waring may , Una s. aba lum na at nagpupumiglas pitan niya nagdalawang isip si Louie kung lala i sila hind a, ito o hindi. Dahil bilang gwardiy na sa at dap ang t, tako dapat pangunahan ng ing pan gam g ilan kan ang ay a gun kanila’y man . iyon na r siguraduhin ang seguridad ng luga ng. tulo ng sila ingi “Nilapitan ko. Nanghih rinig, pero Ang dami nila. Nakikita ko’t nari
ang binti nang tangkain ng isa na hawakan ko na ‘Dun . ko, wala akong naramdaman babalikpag ” tao, mga sila i nasigurado na hind ie. Lou tanaw ni iretso Nang masiguro na ito ni Louie, dum . han unta pup g na lang siya sa kaniyan nganin Makalipas ang ilang oras, nang kaila iyon, ong pase niyang dumaan at bumalik sa sa ay kam mga ang wala na sila. Wala na nanghihingi bintana. Wala na ang mga taong ang ng tulong. Wala nang nagtatangk ng mga binti humawak at humila sa mga daraang tao. sa “Hindi maiiwasan ang mga ganyan g kun san, min trabaho namin. Kaya kung in, sa’k ari gyay nan may mga ganyang . Bahala na isinasawalang-bahala ko na lang ang Diyos,” ayon kay Louie.
Mother Superior
graphics by nevin crampatanta
27 TOLENTINE STAR truth as it happEns
by John Lester Almosa
up in a chic and girl who loves to dress There is this call center night shifts to at n d of wearing makeup eve fab manner and is fon retain her outer glow. comfort room to break, she went to the One night, during her beauty regimen. r d to do her what-so-eve attend to her needs an her “girly ” thing, ing do d an of the mirror While standing in front d went directly inside yle uniform entered an a nun wearing an old-st the cubicle. ponse to her nun did not give any res Curious as to why the ht of her ug tho l gir the e a look at her, greetings nor even tak sons. avy makeup as the rea revealing dress and he girl saw her reflection the , icle cub the of t ou nt we n nu the en Wh that the nun’s eyes shocked when she saw in the mirror and was were all black. her colleagues usly ran for help from rvo ne she , lief be dis al In tot out that she has been more when she found n eve ed zzl pu s wa d an ng the dress code. ther superior for violati given warning by the mo
r e h w a is nog
line Doloca
u by Jane Pa
perience in her weird ex t u o ab ore e m her sophom nce told her, during My friend o to g em in th rd f o o 12. Acc hool. All school last 20 recollection in their sc ile a ad evening. Wh h e ey th year, th ntil 7:00 in to u ad ay h st ly to en ed sudd were requir ing on, she ction was go s. u p m their recolle r ca le bit e CR of thei CR was a litt urinate in th at led to the ked by th al w ay e lw sh al s h The anyway. A er h to with a er er h aring at idn’t matt her friend st dark but it d pulse, w im sa y e B . sh , lway ly ran away en d d su along the hal d n but her frie strange look
her friend. e asked o following to ay aw the venue, sh iend n to ed she ra rn tu re her fr When they like that but e oked at her lo nervous. Sh e d h an hy w ed oor, shock her friend fl e th at g starin just kept on , her friend asking why. in ed st d scared eyes si an e per ic vo y why I was With a shak d you, that ’s in eh b g in d as stan said, “She w again. n away.” ra d an er the same ed ev n scar as w d n her frie Since then,
e i r e E An Party aolo by Nikko P
no
Calumpia
that g company ent organizin installment ev l ca lo e n O unds lights and so ty that had e of the specializes in par l ca lo just a them pened. a s r a f fo o w y it ed it ir t al h h ip g hap l thou was once the munic ble things white. Noe omewhere in unexplaina n, there were re o m been held so s Occidental. It was a tw t u b o party y went the egro of personnel As the part e town plaza where Manapla, N eeded a lot n is at h th th ed t d er h ar n g rd u sh thou ing aro day job o Noel who his friends fireflies fly e crew was . Noel and at the ld th e h and one of th e same place. ct s fa a w e party ering th rmal d in th o si n n ce n as c and the co ie l as si a er u w p ex him, it party m as unusu h w it it w d e e th According to rd d aroun omba he fireflies lace was b ce was right o bright. T p la to p at l e re th e Th . ’t w n ts d use an unusua as it ge ity. It was lights they nd them — d e Municipal d u n th an a ro f y a ly o d is g rt n o ki in ie n y ts fr ou here it ’s tinued fl ple were n w eo p co ce t e la gh th p u t a u ca ink for civilized b g that only event to th wild insects. le. One thin for very hospitab tion was the way the g in disturb en em were in th f the crew’s att o l al — dressed townspeople
paid they were ended and the place y rt a p e h T ft hen they le la, ly. Only, w wn Manap to n w o d f handsome o g le in p o rd e o p the ce. Acc and asked ize the pla ey visited, n g co re ld u nobody co dy knew the place th d creepy obo people an to Noel, n ce ite dressed h w f o e of the pla ce the pla n the nam e v E . . d d e e sk st a fireflies, exi ell to anybody they ab didn’t ring
shadows TOLENTINE STAR 28
A Real Career in the Green
T
by Jiezl Marie Hucalla
he cold breeze intensified in the city, making the moment feel like one, definitely one of the early morning waking-ups she needed to take, just exactly when the clock’s shorthand pointed to three, and the longhand to twelve. Her things were readied for school, and all she needed to do was to follow her established routine. By the time of her travel to school, her ticket shall have been paid six months ahead, so it would cost her much lesser, and she would be hassle-free. Six thousand pesos, it would cost her, and double the amount backand-forth, if she pays late for the ticket fare. Unlike most students who saw the road that the vehicles they rode have to travel, she saw much more than the road, as the plane took off to send her from Bacolod to one of the most renowned universities at Makati City, the Ateneo Graduate School of Business.
photo by alejo antonio mondejar
29 TOLENTINE STAR TRUTH AS IT HAPPENS
“I have finished seven semesters, and each semester has fourteen meetings. I flew… seven times fourteen times two, so approximately, I have made 200 flights,” she narrated. As young as she was, Dr. Ma. Corazon Acaba, a professor at the CAS of the University, has a strong faith that she would be able to change her life and make her future something worth living. The motivation her parents gave her kept her going in reaching her success, as well as her other siblings’. “My father said he has nothing else to leave
To her, Agriculture is very much more than just planting rice and sweet potatoes. What she wanted to change was the preconceived notion of the norms about how they view Agriculture as it was.
us as inheritance, only good education; we do not have any land title or anything. He wanted us to have a diploma on the wall, and yes, we all have,” Dr. Acaba explained. She came from a poor family of ten, so her parents found difficulty sending her to school, but because she had the determination, and compassion, she decided to choose a course where there’s no competition. There were only few who were taking veterinary medicine, so she foresaw that after graduating, she would have a job. “There’s a gender issue, when you are in the farming industry; males are more preferred. I had to work and prove myself, that what men can do, women can do better,” she stated. There were many opportunities in the city, but farming was really something she has passion for. At the end of the day, she counted the number of eggs and fruits gathered. She felt satisfaction, knowing the value of doing even the simplest task. Every count she made was every hunger fed for her. She viewed farming as a lifestyle and as an advocacy while she reflects on the Millennium Development Goals of the United Nations, which aims to significantly eradicate hunger and poverty. To her, Agriculture is very much more than just planting rice and sweet potatoes. What
she wanted to change was the preconceived notion of the norms about how they view Agriculture as it was. “We (agriculturists) answer for hunger and food sustainability,” she said. Aside from being a lifestyle and an advocacy, Agriculture is also a major business to her. “What people don’t know is there is money in Agriculture,” she explained. Dr. Acaba highlighted that people’s needs for food does not end, for it is a basic need for them to be able to live, so business in farming is quite impossible to have an end too. She considered that the common denominator of being poor are the farms, and that what makes the country poor are the traders themselves. “We have to educate farmers in a way that they would not be tricked anymore,” she insists. With humor thrown in, she said: “How hard it is to manage people with the depths of their minds, and how much better it is to deal with plants and animals; sometimes, animals are more human than people.” Wanting to learn and to acquire the skills of effectively dealing with people, she decided to pursue Masters in Business and Accountancy in Health Management at Ateneo. It was somehow impossible for her to manage her responsibilities and tasks as a
student, but she was still able to continue her career in farming. Because she was so determined and focused on her goals, she saw to it that she would finish any venture she has started, but it became unavoidable in her case to have sacrifices. “I sacrifice my time with my two children,” she told. Every end of the day of ordinary people was the start of another aspect of her life as a veterinarian in the animal clinic owned by her husband. The rest of the hours after nine in the evening were the only times spent by her to belong in her house. As a student at her age of 50, she was very punctual that she never got late for her class and she never had any absences; it was only the typhoon that once prevented her from going to class, when flights were cancelled. If she could not catch up her plane after her class, because of the traffic in Manila, she had to sleep in the airport. This year of August 10 marked her 196th flight, as she came back in the City of Bacolod, after she finished her course at Ateneo de Manila in Rockwell Makati. Dr. Acaba, just like some people, still lives not just for herself and her family, but also for others who dream of catching what is meant for them.
photos by nevin crampatanta
SHADOWS TOLENTINE STAR 30
words and graphics by norman baldomar, Jr.
MORE THAN JUST THE tip of the iceberg by Jamie Jelle Guino-o
F
rom the obvious disparities in people’s height and weight to the most delicate details of the human body such as the finger and tongue print, it is a known fact that human beings are genetically designed to be unique.
Just imagine living in a place where anyone can see through the innermost thoughts that only you can generate – read what you’re about to say and figure out what you’re about to do. Doesn’t that imagination scare you? Good thing that is not clearly how the world works. To clear this cloudy concept, American psychologist William Sheldon devised an experiment regarding the essential role of sight in determining a person’s personality based solely on the human physique. With his unrelenting effort and keen mind, Sheldon came up with three body types – each diverse in its uniqueness. Somewhere along this picturesque rainbow of body structures is you. Can you tell which one of them reflects you?
Ectomorphic – Cerebrotonic Type Have you ever met anyone who was able to shove in 12 whooping rounds of extra rice into his or her stomach and still gain little or even no weight at all? These are known to be ectomorphs. Ectomorphs have an unbelievable resistance to weight gain due to their fast metabolism. They possess overall slender bodies. Under social settings, they are found to be caring, emotionally restrained, self-conscious, and quiet –often seeking privacy. Often appearing as dull and snobbish, they may not talk much, but unlike most people, they have a desire for depth and meaning. However, they are usually artistic, introspective, thoughtful, and sensitive to the needs of the people around them. Fusing these traits together, ectomorphs are regarded as reliable and sweet friends. They are known to have the melancholic temperament, strong introversion, and a tendency to schizophrenia. “Somehow, it’s actually right. There are some exceptions though,” said Gerald Espanilla, an Engineering Technology student at the Technological University of the Philippines – Visayas.
Endomorphic – Viscerotonic Type Look at all the people around you right at this very moment. Do you happen to see anyone with fleshy appendages, round physique, walking towards your direction? Those walking ‘stuffy-like-fluffy-cotton’ peeps are considered to be under the endomorphic body type. They generally have a rounded full face, short neck stocky build and short limbs. These individuals are fun-loving and sociable people who possess the potential of being the human incarnates of sleeping pillows. Endomorphs are even-tempered, good humored, relaxed, and tolerant. A combination of these traits makes them fun and optimistic friends. They often possess a desire for comfort, food, and have needs for affection. Endomorphs are generally known for their sanguine temperament. However, they have a tendency to mood fluctuations, extroversion, and manic depression. “There are actually a variety of endomorphs that I know, personality-wise, but I don’t think there should be any specific characteristic labels that should be stapled on their heads,” said Lee Renz Balberona, a BS Electronics and Communication Engineering student.
Mesomorphic – Somatotonic Type If there is one person who always act like he or she is the leading proprietor of crazy antics or the ambassador or ambassadress of ‘the-hell-I-care’ moves in your ultra-amazing circle of friends, then congratulations – you are affiliated with a tough mesomorph. Mesomorphs gain weight easily and have to work hard to lose body fat. Mesomorphs often have a pearshaped physique. They have strong and solid muscular build. They are generally known to have the most pleasing physique, which makes them physically attractive. How do you recognize them anyway? Well, mesomorphs often find themselves assertive, courageous, and indifferent to what others say or think. They have a zest for physical activity and generally love taking risky chances in order to realize their purpose in life. Others may find mesomorphs competitive cravers for dominance and power, but this doesn’t make all of them any less likable as individuals. Mesomorphs are known for their choleric temperament and comparable extroverted or introverted tendencies. “This description matched my personality well,” reacted Raphael Louis Lopez, a BSMT sophomore.
graphics by anamae lachica
truth be tolD “It is by human nature that we try to identify people’s personalities because we try to find the ones that can suit ours,” said Criminal Justice Education Student Discipline Counselor Fritz Palma. First impressions and social guesswork do not equate the real characters of the people around us. We may claim to understand people as they are, but in fact, what we see are just silhouettes of the real thing. We can choose to rationalize, or we can just accept the fact that we have our own set of shortcomings to remind us that human as we are, we all possess our flaws and imperfections that make us all unique. Palma also emphasized that the only important thing is our acknowledgement that each one of us is different. Each human being is special. We all come from different directions and orientations of life, and we converge in one path, for some reason, we cannot possibly explain. In order to have a good relationship with others, all we need is understanding and respect. After all, personalities are immeasurable and there is no scale known to man that can measure our understanding and respect towards other people. shadows TOLENTINE STAR 32
Heroes Uncovered by Roan Hope Ocaban
S
tories show that some people do not depend on the government in order to help the less fortunate or the community. Some of these people form groups in the form of non-government organizations (NGOs). Yes, they may be ordinary people but they have an extraordinary will to help others including those whom they do not know.
photo courtesy of aidfi
33 TOLENTINE STAR TRUTH AS IT HAPPENS
Knowing the Fisherfolks The Barangay Punta TayTay Marginalized Fisherfolks Marketing Cooperative, which started on 2011, is one of these heroes. The fishermen and other people who depend on the sea for their daily living decided to organize with a common goal and will to be of assistance to each other in their livelihood and to become independent fishermen someday. Bookkeeper and member Elsie Mones said that they started with only P2000 capital build up for each individual. The operators, those who own a pump boat, give commission to their organization
We, ourselves, can also be heroes in our own unique way. We can volunteer or donate to these foundations. Even small contributions can be a very big help to them.
for each time they sell their products. Kagawad Joel Guntalidad Sr. stated that this cooperative helps in the planting of the mangroves and promotes the sanitation of the sea and the shorelines. BFAR has given this cooperative marine plywood and other materials to aid them in their fishing. The Believers at Lending and Trading Another central character in this story is the Community of Faith and the Dreamers (COFAD) which is a multipurpose cooperative. They started in 1998 as a share group or saving group first with 8 – 17 members. They collected P10 from each member every passing week. It was intended for special occasions and events of their members. Later, they decided to start a lending cooperative. Among the factors that opened their minds into becoming a cooperative was the Share an Opportunity Philippines (SOP), an NGO, who once came to Bgry. Punta Taytay, and COFAD, already existing as a group then was helped and approached by the SOP. They launched activities and facilitated series of training among the members of the community. “The primary purpose of our organization is to uplift the economic conditions of each of our members,” Elizabeth Segovia, CoEducation Committee Chairman of the COFAD stressed. She added that they lend money with only 5% interest in consideration for their less fortunate members. Segovia also emphasized that one of the reasons they decided to form an organization was they had seen the
importance of an organization that is working and is acknowledged legally. They have two businesses now – the rice trading and the micro lending. One of the barriers that sometimes blocks their way to improvement is misunderstanding among them. Another is the collection since almost 98% of their members are poor. Segovia concluded that one of the things they want to arrive at someday is for each of their members to have their own and stable businesses. Filipino at Hearts Another whom we should know and recAlso deserving recognition is the Alternative Indigenous Development Foundation Incorporated (AIDFI) which has been contributing to the progress of Bacolod for more than 22 years now. Way back 1980s when the sugar crisis was still at its peak, the four founders were working in NFSW, an organization which focuses on agrarian reform beneficiaries. A number of farm lots were given to the farmers for them to cultivate and to have their own land. However, the support services like farming tools and equipment were also taken by the landowners as they leave, thus, leaving the beneficiaries empty – handed. These four founders felt the urge of forming an organization that would suffice the farmers’ basic support services. “Our main focus is to help the upland communities especially our brothers and sisters who are deprived from the services of
the government. We really see water as the starting point of the development. If there is no water, there will be no developments,” emphasized Che Idzenga, the Program Manager of AIDFI, in explaining one of their main programs which is the appropriate technology, specifically, the hydraulic ram pump. Another main program is the essential oil cultivation and processing which started in the midst of 2004 and 2005, a booming period for essential oils. AIDFI involved themselves in social enterprising. They came up with their own design and crafted a distiller that would convert raw materials such as the lemon grass into the finished product. “Although this is just a small part of the development, but when combined together can give benefit to the country. It’s a team’s effort,” concluded Idzenga, in explaining the contribution of NGOs in Bacolod. We, ourselves, can also be heroes in our own unique way. We can volunteer or donate to these foundations. Even small contributions can be a very big help to them. Even small acts of generosity, when willingly done can be a big one, and we can all be happy living in a world where happy endings don’t simply exist because life full of good things and life spent with the aid of God doesn’t have endings; rather, it is an everlasting one.
SHADOWS TOLENTINE STAR 34
Column
MATAPUBRE
Nga-a kalabanan sa mga kwartahan gina takus nila ang ikasarang sang mga tawo nga sa pamatyag nila wala guid sang masarangan.
I
FOREVER YOUNG NEVIN CRAMPATANTA
35 TOLENTINE STAR TRUTH AS IT HAPPENS
ndi manigar nga samtang nagakabuhi kita sa sini nga kalibutan, lain-lain nga mga tawo ang aton masugat-an. Nanari-sari nga pamatasan ang aton masalapuan. Kun kaisa, may ara guid nga indi mabatunan. Amo na nga ang mga tawo nga gahambal sa iya isigkapareho nga “bisan magkalapanit ang palad mo sang bako-bako indi ka man gyapun magdilanto” mga matapubre. Gintuga kita nga palareho sa sining kalibutan. Ang kada isa sa aton ginbugayan sang ihibalo, talento, kag kinamaalam nga lain sa iban. Ang ini nga kinaiya amo ang aton ginagamit para mapadayon ang paglab-ot sang aton mga handum. Ang tagsa-tagsa may pagtinguha sa pagkuha sang naga-inggat nga bulawan nga nahamtang sa duog sang kabudlayan. Sa aton padayon nga pagpangabuhi sa sining kalibutan, bal-anon nga indi patas ang tanan. Kis-a makahambal kita nga ang Dios may pinili-an. Pero batunun ta ang kamatuoran, may pigado kag may manggaran. Nga-a kalabanan sa mga kwartahan nagatakus sang ikasarang sang mga tawo nga sa pamatyag nila wala guid sang masarangan. Wala ko ga hambal nga indi ko kumporme sang amo na nga estado. Ang akun lang, respeto. Waay ko labot kun ano ka man kag kun sin-o ka man, ang importante ginarespeto ta kag ginaintiende ang isa kag isa. Nga-a nga kun makapaeskwela gani ang isa ka mamumugon sang iya kabataan sa kolehiyo, ginalibak sila dayon. Hambalon ka nga “mayo kun makapatapus na, ahaw nga amu lang na pangitanan niya, paano niya na masustentuhan”. Hoy! Ikaw ga gasto? Mayo kun dira siya gakuha sustento sa
imo. Ginpaeskwela niya na kay masarangan niya na. Ginpangabudlayan niya na ubra , pulaw-bugtaw sang trabaho, ginpabalhasan kag halos dugo magwa na sa lawas niya para lang may isuporta sa ila pag iskwela tungod kay pigado. Kabalo ka kun ano ila kunsepto? Kun indi ka mag-iskwela pigado ka man gyapun, pero kun mag iskwela ka, pigado pero daku ang tyansa mag-asenso. Indi ka magsiling nga tungod kay ikaw ang pinakaalam, indi ka na malabawan. Parehas lang ta tanan, indi pagtaksa ang ikasarang sang imo classmate, kay waay ka kabalo basi dasun niyo nga quiz taas pa siya sa imo. May ara tion nga gulpi lang naglain pamatyag mo kay nabal-an mo nga taas pa ang grado sang pinakamango sa klase nyo. Ano guid na ya haw? Dapat nalipay ka kay nabuhinan ang mango sa klase niyo. Tam-an na guid sa imo ka ambisyoso, indi lang bala sa tanan nga ti-on ikaw ang mayo. Damu kita sang utod nga may diperensya-pisikal, pareho sang bungol, bulag, piang, lupog, kag iban pa. Pero indi ta maghambal nga wala na sila sang may mahimo, kay sa tuod-tuod lang, sila na ang may talento nga mas labaw ikumpara sa normal nga tawo. Indi kamo mag-giho nga daw si sin-o kamo. Ano man ang tindog sang pangabuhi mo, importante respetohon ang mga tawo sa palibot mo. Kay kun sa pamatyag mo lapad na ang nasakupan sang landong mo, halung ka, kay waay ka kabalo basi ang mga tawo nga natabunan sang landong mo amo pa na ang makataas sa imo. graphics by van jerwin vergara
{ ROLEPLAY }
g n d o k i l aya sa
S y a t h bu Ngiti a trico
los Kaye De ni John
I
nstant artista ang pakiramdam ‘nun. makikita mo ang mga mata ng mga batang may natatanging kislap at ningning ng ligaya’t kasiyahan. Kasabay ng pagtitig na may mga bungisngis ng mga maninipis nilang mga labi. ramdam mo sa kaibuturan ng ‘yong puso ang kanilang pag-idolo’t paghanga. sinong bata ba naman kasi ang hindi masisiyahang personal na makita’t makasalamuha ang isang payasong kalimitan lamang nilang nakikita sa mga birthday party. para sa kanila, isang malaking bagay na ang pagkakataong ito.
shadows TOLENTINE STAR 36
Ngunit higit sa lahat, mawawalan ng kabuluhan ang lahat ng mga ginawa, ginagawa, at gagawin mo kung labag ito sa iyong paninindigan, paniniwala, at sariling pasya.
Hindi ko akalain na magiging ganoon ‘yon. Palapit pa lamang ako, nakita ko nang nagbubulungan ang mga bata. Hindi bulong ng panunuya, kundi mga bulong ng mga batang nananabik. Lubos na kaba ang pakiramdam ‘nun. Sino ba naman kasi ako? Isang tipikal na kolehiyong estudyante, hindi rin naman ako mahilig sa mga bata, tapos ngayon, naglagay lang ako ng mga kolorete sa mukha, hindi na magkandaugaga ang mga bata na lumapit sa akin. Ganoon ba talaga? Ang kabalintunaan ng buhay ng isang payaso? Si Kuya Rodney, isang payaso. Sa unang tingin, hindi mo aakalaing ganoon ang trabaho niya. Matatas magsalita ng Ingles, pormal manamit, pusturangpustura kumbaga. Aakalain mong nagmamay-ari siya ng isang malaki at matagumpay na kompanya. Ngunit sa oras na makatanggap siya ng isang tawag o text message galing sa mga kostumer niya, dala ang kaniyang maleta, siya’y nagbabagong anyo. Halimaw? Hindi! Isang anyong kakaiba. Iyong tipo na magpipinta ng mga ngiti sa’yong mga labi. Isang payaso. Sa kaniyang paggabay, pinagaralan ko kung paano maging isang payaso. Mula sa pagsusuot ng makulay na damit, pagbabagay ng wig, pagkokolorete ng mukha, hanggang sa mga kilos at galaw. Alam kong hindi ito biro. Papasok ako sa isang mundong napakalayo sa nakasanayan ko. Pero isang bagay ang naisip ko ‘nun habang naghahanda ako, na baka tulad ng
inaasahan ko, ligaya ang iiwan ko sa mga batang bibisitahin ko. Tapang. Tibay ng loob. Puso. Salungat sa kalimitan nating nakikita, ang mga bagay na ito ang dapat na mayroon ang isang payaso. Bukod sa mga pangangailangang materyal, sa kaloob-looban ay dapat na preparado’t handa rin sila. Handa silang harapin ang mga taong nag-aabang at nakatitig sa kaniya. Hindi biro ang tumayo sa harap ng maraming tao, bata man o matanda, na ang lahat ay umaasang may bibitawan kang joke o isang magic trick. Tapang. Umasa na kahit paano, bebenta ka sa kanila. Hindi ka rin magiging kumpleto kung sa bawat pagkakamaling nagagawa mo sa harap nila, ay agad kang nawawalan ng pagasa’t motibo. Hindi magiging madali ang lahat. Kahit na sa paningin ng iba, napakadali’t simple lang ang ginagawa mo. Mahirap. Kailangan ng tibay ng loob na sa kahit na husgahan o laitin ka man ng iba dahil sa ginagawa mo, mananatili kang matibay sa paninindigan at dahilan mo kung bakit ka naging isang payaso. Ngunit higit sa lahat, mawawalan ng kabuluhan ang lahat ng mga ginawa, ginagawa, at gagawin mo kung labag ito sa iyong paninindigan, paniniwala, at sariling pasya. Dapat, bago ka pa man nagdesisyon na pasukin ang bagay na ito, ay buong pagkatao mo nang nakumbinsi ang sarili
37 TOLENTINE STAR TRUTH AS IT HAPPENS
mo na ito ay para sa’yo. Puso. Hindi lang sa pag-iisip o desisyon ito dapat na nanggaling. Dapat na kasali ang puso. Upang mas magkaroon ng laman at bigat ang bagay na ito. Mas madaling gumawa at kumilos kung ito’y ginagawa mo ng walang pait sa dibdib o taos-puso. Ganito ang nakita ko sa mga mata ni Kuya Rodney. Sigurado ako noon. Hindi pera o kung anumang materyal na bagay na nasa mga mata niya. Kundi ang pagnanais na patuloy na magpinta ng mga ngiti at magpunla ng kasiyahan sa mga puso ng mga bata. “Kailangan, unahin mo ang magpasaya, ang pera, saka na lang yan,” paninindigan ni Kuya Rodney. Kung tutuusin, masasabing isang iregular na trabaho ang pagpapayaso. Walang permanenteng halaga ng sahod ang mga payaso. Kung kailan lamang sila tawagan, saka lamang sila magkakapera. Kung minsan
nga’y wala. Ngunit sa kabila ng lahat ng ito, ayon kay Kuya Rodney, kung ito ang simbuyo ng iyong damdamin, kahit na magkano o ilang halaga pa man ang iharap sa iyo, hindi ka masisilaw. Dahil ang pangunahin mong iniisip, ay ang pagpapasaya
ng tao. Dahil sa huli, ito ang dahilan kung bakit mayroong mga payaso. Sa ganitong paniniwala niya sinimulan ang isang proyekto na naglalayong magpasaya ng mga batang dumaranas ng mga karamdaman. Personal niyang binibisita ang kanyang mga batang ito na may pagnanais sa kaniyang puso na kahit paano, ay kaniyang napapawi ang sakit na kanilang dinaramdam. Pinatutunayan niya na laughter is the best medicine. Layon din niyang maging isang instrumento ng pagtulong sa mga kapwa niya mga payaso sa pamamagitan ng pagtatatag ng isang asosasyong magbibigkis sa kanila na may pare-parehong layunin. Magtataguyod ito ng matitibay at malalwak na koneksyon na maaari nilang magamit upang mas mapalawak ang saklaw ng kanilang trabaho. Tatawagin niya itong “clowns and magicians are us”. Alam ko na sa mga panahon iyon, hindi ako handa. Mayroong hiya at kaunting takot ang nasa puso ko. Hindi ko alam kung bakit. Magiging isang payaso lang naman ako. Pagtitinginan lang naman ako ng mga tao. Marahil ay dumugin pa nga ako. Ano ba ang nakakakaba ‘dun? Hindi naman mahirap ‘diba? Anong kinakatakot ko? Sa sandaling panahon kong naisuot ang makulay na damit na iyon, sa saglit na nanatili ang makapal na kolorete sa mukha ko, sa saglit na panahong nasa aking ulo ang wig at sombrerong nakaiilang na suotin, may natutunan ako. Dahil matapos ang pagtitiis sa init, pawis, at kaba, lahat ay maiiba. Mapapawi ang lahat matapos mong makita ang matatamis na ngiti ng mga taong nanonood sa’yo.
photos by christelle villaruz
Reviews TATAK
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book music food tv show game
Reviews TATAK
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TV SHOW REVIEW||Jeanher Mae Mahinay
winter is coming! B���� ���������� ��� ��� �������� ���� �� G��� �� T������
FOOD REVIEW Alyssa Marie Arceño
a tangY twist of
leche flan
When you thought you tasted it all, this Kalabasa Leche Flan will give you a something to yearn for. Though it looks just like a normal leche flan, this new twist will let you experience a veggie-dessert delight blended into one healthy serving. An authentic taste from the province of Laguna, this custard egg cake offers the pinoy flavor of sweetness and tang that’ll literally melt on your tastebuds. Palatable and satiating to eat, a spoonful, or more, of this will cheer up your craving for odd desserts. Ingredients:
Remember a time when yoRemember a time when you watched a TV series and you somehow always had a clue of what would happen next? Are you bored of being the all-knowing TV viewer that you sometime say “I could have written that myself”? Then say goodbye to those moments when you watch Game of Thrones, the TV adaptation of George RR Martin’s series of fantasy novel, A Song of Ice and Fire. You see, I won’t tell you anything that will happen other than that the series is set on the fictional continents of Westeros and Essos where summers span decades and winters can last a lifetime; where seven houses (family clans) fight for the ultimate seat – the Iron Throne. Believe me, you’ll thank me later if ever you decide to watch this series (which I ultimately recommend you do) – spoilers will be your ultimate nemesis. If you have read the book already then there is no need to worry, with scenes shot in Northern Ireland, Malta, Scotland, photos taKEn from thE intErnEt
39 TOLENTINE STAR truth as it happEns
Croatia, Iceland, the United States, Spain and Morocco, HBO has got it covered with no other than their best producers David Benioff and D. B. Weiss. The casting is even perfect where most of the actors including Maisie Williams (Arya Stark of the house Stark, a pretty bad-ass character), rose to fame when they got the roles. If you’re up for sharp lines, dark drama, and insane and incredible production (this show has Dragons! Dragons! What else TV series has got DRAGONS?!), again you should watch this. No one is definitely safe from death with their ultimate plot twists. They even have White Walkers (ice zombies!) who are gearing up to attack the kingdom while they fight over the throne. By the end of one episode, you’ll have that feel that you have just watched a movie and not a TV series. But for those who have religiously followed the show, keep holding tight and continue watching reruns in the meantime while we wait in anguish for the show’s return on its 5th season on April 2015.
For every cup of mashed kalabasa. 1 cup condensed milk 1 whole egg 1/4 tsp vanilla 2 heaping teaspoons brown sugar (to be caramelized)
����’� ��� ��� �� ��: 1. Peel the kalabasa and boil for 20 minutes. Mash thoroughly using a fork. 2. Combine the mashed mixture, milk, egg and vanilla. Set aside. 3. Caramelize the brown sugar and line the pan mold. 4. Pour the mixture into the lined pan mold and cover with aluminum foil or katsa (linen cloth). 5. Steam in hot water (double boiler) for 20 minutes. 6. Chill, serve, and voila! Take a bite of your kalabasa leche flan.
MUSIC REVIEW||Cherry Mae Cordova
listen to the stories of OMAM Are you a lover of nature? Do you love to chill? Are you a fan of alternative music? Why not listen to Of Monsters and Men? Of Monsters and Men, also known as OMAM, is an Icelandic alternative/indie folk-pop-rock band which was formed in 2010. Their well-crafted and spirited debut album My Head is an Animal reached the no.1 position in Australia, Iceland, Ireland and the US Rock and alternative charts; no.6 on the US Billboard 200 album chart; no. 3 in the UK and most of the European charts and Canada. Their songs which are full of woodsy imagery will give you the feel of a natural fantasy of the outdoors and the life
it withholds. From Dirty Paws which opens a beautifully sung harmony, to the radio-fit pop sounds of the Mountain Sound to the contemplative Yellow Light, each song will surely make you feel elated, with Nanna and Ragnar as the vocalists. As taken from a line in Little Talks, My Head Is an Animal is “full of life and full of love.” If you’re planning or going to spend an evening or two, even three in the open air, taking in the fresh breeze along with a load of campfire debris, then My Head is an Animal with its high quality melodic pieces might just be the perfect soundtrack.
1. Dirty Paws 2. King and Lionheart 3. Mountain Sound 4. Slow and Steady 5. From Finner 6. Little Talks
7. Six Weeks 8. Love Love Love 9. Your Bones 10. Sloom 11. Lakehouse 12. Yellow Light
GAME REVIEW||Paul Deoma
BOOK REVIEW Keith Danielle Balceda
A Tap of Genius
AUTHOR: rainbow rowell
fangirl for
everybody At first glance, you’d think that Fangirl is just another book about typical teenage lovey-dovey by judging the very cover, but that’s not the case. Rainbow Rowell made this book a perfect mix of familial love and romantic love and the difficulty of getting out of our safe zone without any hand to hold on to. Using a voice that fits an awkward, yet humorous freshman, Rowell lets you experience how our first day in college, how being in a crowd of strangers, and how slowly losing the person you’ve always counted on feel like. Here, we’ll
Tracks
see an introvert Cath deal with a new environment, friendship, a possible love interest, and a rocky relationship with her twin sister. With the emphasis on fandoms and its effects to Cath’s life, this book is truly living up to its title. Also, brownie points because of the obvious Harry Potter references Rowell used. This late-coming-of-age novel will make you feel nostalgic and make you realize that life is not just about being on the sidelines. This will surely speak not just to fangirls and fanboys, but to everyone.
The piano is surely a classical instrument that not everyone can play. But with Piano Tiles, playing will be as easy as one’s reflexes and dexterity level will permit. Running in both Android and IOS, this app from HU WEN ZENG is something every frustrated piano player will enjoy. Gameplay wise, it has some similarities with the old favorite ¬Tap Tap Revenge, only that this time you are given black tiles by default that keeps moving forward or even reverse as you start playing. Offering different game modes such as Classic, Zen, and Arcade to name a few, the ultimate goal of the game is to tap your way only on the black tiles until you reach a certain number, or until you accidentally press the white ones. This may seem like a piece of cake but trust me, it’s easier said than done. By the end, you will get so frustrated that you’ll want to try over and over until you reach that damn score! The secret of the game lies in its minimalism. It’s simply a case of tapping the piano tiles, and beating your own
score. Competition will start not only an ember but a fire that will burn on until the developer improves the game with an update. With its current version, you can’t help, but keep on playing until you make that 10 seconds 9, or the 173 piano tiles to 500. Now, get your tapping fingers ready and play unto the sound of music.
SHADOWS TOLENTINE STAR 40
the path unwinding W
By Therese Amor Panzo
hat if the very thing you believe you’ll become is different from what future has stored for you? What if there are some things that are bound to happen when you least expect them? Like…
After four years of having a hard time understanding and solving accounting problems, you find yourself offering public service and later on become a politician. After years of staying late at night just to memorize medical terms, you are now burning midnight candles making lesson plans for the next day. Queries are, can we really decide for ourselves or just let fate and circumstances find their way? How do we know if that is the right course to take? Can we really live up to the choices we’ve made? Changing paths Rendering service for almost 18 years now, PO3 Mainard Tropa shared his journey to what has landed him his current job. “Previously, I took Bachelor of Science in Fishery Education major in Inland Fisheries and Science, now I am a Police Officer III assigned as Desk Officer,” says PO3 Tropa as he imparts his educational background and his current position at Isabela Police Station. PO3 Tropa entered service at the age of 26. Before, he has been assigned in the Police Community Relations section, Intelligence section, and Alert team of the said station. Meanwhile, Rose Ann Espinosa has been hired for jobs that are out of the line from the course she graduated. “I passed the Nursing Board Exam last 2009, but now I am a Customer Service Associate in the Convergys for one year and four months,” Rose Ann shares. Rose Ann practiced her nursing profession for a year doing
41 TOLENTINE STAR TRUTH AS IT HAPPENS
volunteer works in a hospital. After a year as a volunteer nurse, she found another job and was later hired by the Globe Telecom that lasted for a year and two months. When reasons find their fate “Maybe, one reason is that both of my grandfathers are in line with this job. My mother’s father is a police while on my father’s side my grandfather is a Philippine Constabulary. So, I can say that the service is really in our bloodline,” shares PO3 Tropa when asked the probable reasons what made him land the job he had now. He took the PNP Entrance Examination when he was in his second year of college. According to him, his mother had encouraged him to take the exam for the purpose that he might use it in the future if he really wanted to pursue his dream. After he had graduated, he also took an examination for teachers and eventually passed the exam which made him eligible for teaching but he had other options in mind: to undergo trainings in PNP and eventually to serve. Opportunities came, so he decided to try his luck into PNP. The success of getting hired was elusive for him at first. He failed his medical exam for the findings proved that there was a spot in his heart. The first attempt didn’t stop him, he tried again for the second time but still he failed. As the saying goes, try and try until you succeed. Well, the third attempt proved him right. He was hired at Isabela Police Station at the age of 26. Now, he is on his 18th year of giving unconditional service to his countrymen.
There’s more to life than restricting your capabilities to what you have started at first. The more opportunities come, the more your learning is enriched.
Meanwhile, the reason for changing paths was different for Rose Ann. “I decided to find a job after graduation because no one would support us financially since my mother had no job at that time. I wasn’t able to finish my volunteer work in the hospital since we were obliged to pay the hospital to be a volunteer nurse, plus, I also needed allowance to be able to sustain it.” Rose Ann shares. She also added that the wages of nurses here in the Philippines was lower compared to other jobs, one factor that made up her mind to find another source of income that would cater to their needs. Rose Ann once dreamed to take either Psychology or Hotel Management for the knowledge that more opportunities await her, though taking Nursing as her course, she has no
regrets. Embracing encounters and challenges “If you are in service, you cannot please everybody. Even if you are doing well, there will always be people who would look for mistakes. As what other say, when you do good everyone remembers, but when you do bad, no one forgets,” PO3 Tropa said when asked for reaction on the comments people would say about the shift of his job. For PO3 Tropa, the nature of his work will always fall for taking risks. But when things went wrong during encounters on field, he always observed safety firsthand and settled problems in diplomatic way to avoid further damages. To him, the feeling when you help others is
immeasurable. Since they are authorities, it is mandatory to them to render good service. “As long as you love your work, you know your work. I don’t mind if one has something to say, anyway it is their opinion. Maybe, the thing is, even though you don’t want it on the first place, destiny will always bring you to what was really meant for you,” he added. For Rose Ann, the comments of other people did not hinder her from attaining what she has right now. “I am enjoying my job now. Well, we can’t deny the fact that it is tiresome especially when your shift is in early morning hours. But it doesn’t matter as long as I’m happy with my work and I’ll be able to help my family,” Rose Ann shares. “It is okay if we landed a job different from the courses we graduated. The important thing is that you have your job, you can support your family and at the same time you are happy with what you are doing,” she further added. Everything happens for a reason. Not because you have gone away from what was expected of you means you have failed. There’s more to life than restricting your capabilities to what you have started at first. The more opportunities come, the more your learning is enriched. The more you venture yourself into something new, the more you will learn different things. The success of a person is not measured by how far his/her career goes within their boundaries. Jumping off beyond the fences and not knowing how you will land can be a bit risky but if you won’t take the challenge how would you know? Whatever path you will choose, it will hone you to the fullest potentials you have. In every undertaking, follow what your heart desires, keep your faith blazing, and believe in yourself. If you ever land success in your choices, then you can truly say that change wasn’t bad after all. photo by jose madison crampatanta, jr.
SHADOWS TOLENTINE STAR 42
hypocrites are we. Don’t say you’re not. try not to be one.