The PANTOGRAPH Tabloid Vol. IV, Issue no. II

Pantograph

The

THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF NUEVA CACERES SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL

ORAGONS UNITE Bicolanos rally vs. Anti-Terrorism Bill amid pandemic risks NEWS | 3

Bicol still quarantined; sectors cry for aid NEWS | 2

GRAPHICS: KEREN-HAPPUCH VIÑAS

Double Tragedy EDITORIAL | 10

Why Pride is a Protest FEATURE | 15

VOLUME IV, ISSUE NO. II NOVEMBER 2019 - JUNE 2020

Call of Duty: The LGU Movement FEATURE | 17

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The PANTOGRAPH NOVEMBER 2019 - JUNE 2020

Bicol still quarantined;

sectors cry for aid

MARINELA SABORDO Months after the entire Bicol Region was placed under the various community quarantine levels, from the enhanced to the modified general community quarantine (MGCQ), various sectors in the Region have aired out their concerns for assistance.

Bicol under MGCQ Pursuant to the Resolution No. 41 of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATFEID), all residents living in areas under MGCQ, regardless of age and health status, will be allowed to leave their homes as long as they observe minimum health standards.

However, days after the announcement, the government revised its guidelines and prohibited high-risk persons from leaving their houses. Work and necessities related are subject for exception, according to the new Resolution No. 43 of the IATF-EID. “Persons below 21 years old, above 60 years, those with health risks, and pregnant women are required to remain in their residences at all times,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said.

Despite the less movement restrictions, some of the sectors in the Region are still affected by the the community quarantine.

‘Give us our needs’ - Bicolano sectors to gov’t In a phone interview, Kadamay member Francia Plegino shared her struggles during the community quarantine.

“Kailangan na lang harapin kasi walang ibang paraan, ‘di ba?

OES to allow enrolment amid GCQ: UNC

CRY FOR HELP. With their livelihoods restricted, and as their incomes have dwindled, driver-representatives of Condor PISTON called for the reopening of public transportation during the Independence Day Protest last June 12, citing necessities for commuters and their families. WORDS BY

JIBRIL LORENTE AND PHOTO BY JUVIN DURANTE

Naga City back with new COVID-19 cases before June ends; imposes lockdowns, conducts testings in affected areas JESKHA TRISHA CRUZAT

CHARLES KRYXIAN LARA Allowing students and parents “to enroll without the necessity of physically going to the university campus,” the University of Nueva Caceres (UNC) launched its new Online Enrollment System (OES) last May 18 while the entire Bicol Region is still under the general community quarantine due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

The OES’ intent is to have no-contact enrollment system, and because of this, some documents may not be required upon enrollment. However, this does not mean that said documents will not be submitted or collected. Students will be given time to ubmit all the necessary documents.

According to the University Leadership Team (LT), through Marketing Director Ruby Bandola, the OES is designed to be “universal”, which means that all students from Elementary to the School of Graduate Studies will follow the same enrollment procedure with the only difference of subject selection for Higher Education, while students in Basic Education don’t need to input such.

Once issued with a matriculation form through a verified email address, it means that a student is already officially enrolled.

However, if a student changes their mind, they can still withdraw their enrollment in a given period. OES also allows students to add or drop subjects once they are officially enrolled.

The LT further said that since this is a new system, it will take time for students to get used to it thus, they are expecting some mistakes and errors during the implementation of the new OES. “The system, however, is designed in such a way that it will be very user-friendly, very minimal data inputs are required, and errors and mistakes can be corrected readily,” the LT guaranteed.

In case of poor or zero internet connectivity, the LT suggests that students “may look for a location where there is good internet connectivity, or better yet, go to UNC Sports Palace, if already allowed by the GCQ guidelines, where they can also enroll online.”

As per Memorandum no. 19, Summer class enrollment in the Higher Education level is within May 18-31, while Basic Education’s is from June 24 to 26. Summer classes in the former will start from June 1 to July 15, while the latter’s will start from June 29 to August 1.

The University ICT Team, under the leadership of Dex Nobleza, spearheaded the development of the OES upon the direction of the University President to the Vice-President for Administration.

Bawal lumabas. Minsan, patago-tago na lang kami sa labas para makapaghanapbuhay para may ipakain kami sa pamilya namin,” she said.

Plegino also called for the national government to provide the people with what they need, stressing that it’s the “government’s duty to cater to its people.”

“Nananawagan ako kay President Duterte na, sana, bigyang pansin ‘yong mga mahihirap na lalong naghihirap sa panahon ng lockdown. Huwag naman niyang ipagbahala ang mga taong naghihirap na. Dapat tungkulin ng gobyerno na tulungan talaga ang bawat hinaing ng bawat mamamayan. Tulungan nila at gabayan kasi ang dami na talaga... Ibigay ‘yong mga pangangailangan, pagkain, medikal, lalo na ‘yong mass testing. ‘Yon ang pinakakailangan ng mga apektado ng COVID-19,” she urged.

Meanwhile, Ramon Oliva of the farmers’ sector also aired out the same sentiments of Plegino, citing how the quarantine made it difficult to procure their needs. “‘Yong mga tanim namin, ‘yon ang kinukunsumo namin. Ang wala sa amin ay ‘yong kagaya ng sabon, mga pangangailangan namin na nahihirapan kami gawa ng nasa bukid kami at lockdown,” he said.

Oliva also asked for the government, particularly the Department of Agriculture (DA) to send aid to the farmers, especially those who were severely hit by the pandemic.

“Ang hinihingi namin sa gobyerno, lalo na sa DA na (1) dapat mayroon silang programa para sa mga magsasaka; (2) bukod sa kakulangan sa hanapbuhay karamihan sa mga magsasaka ang wala ang pangalan sa paayuda ng gobyerno, sana gawan ng paraan; at

After thirty-nine days of not recording any new case of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the City of Naga confirmed fifteen (15) new cases before June 2020 ended.

It was Bicol#67, a 32-year-old nurse from Barangay San Francisco, who became the City’s last confirmed patient before the new ones got in.

Her case was reported last May 16, and eventually, she recovered from the disease last May 27.

However, the almost 40-day streak ended when Bicol#91 and Bicol#92, 59 and 30 years old mother and child from Spillway, Concepcion Pequeña, were confirmed last June 25.

In a statement by City Mayor Nelson Legacion, he disclosed that Bicol#91 and Bicol#92 arrived in the City last June 14 from Naic, Cavite via a private vehicle. On that same day, they were advised to undergo 14 days of home quarantine despite testing negative in the rapid antibody test.

Two (2) days later, the mother showed symptoms and went to a doctor last June 22. On June 24, the two (2) were once again subjected to the antibody test. Upon testing positive for both Immunoglobulin-G and Immunoglobulin-M antibodies, they were brought to the City Quarantine Facility. The next morning, they were swabbed and the results came later that evening, confirming their positive status.

As per the recommendation of Dr. Vito Borja II, City Health Officer, the two (2) were sent to Bicol Medical Center; their immediate contacts were brought to the City Quarantine Facility; disinfected places they went to; and the imposition of lockdown on the area of their residence.

Just two (2) days after the confirmation of the new cases, Bicol#100 to Bicol#108, a total of nine (9) patients, have been reported to test positive of the virus. All of them are from Spillway, Concepcion Pequeña and had direct exposure to both Bicol#91 and Bicol#92. The first two were reported last June 27, while the rest were on the next day.

Consequently, Mayor Legacion declared that Spillway, Concepcion Pequeña will still be on lockdown, and its residents will be tested for possible infection of the virus.

“Nin huli kaini, padagos man giraray an lockdown sa Spillway, Concepcion Pequeña, sagkod na igwa pang huma asin dai pa nakakaseguro sa kaligtasan kan gabos sa lugar. Makundunsir man kita nin rapid antibody test, o kaya swab test kun itugot kan DOH, sa mga taga Spillway na igwang sintomas o kaya nagkaigwang contact duman sa gabos na nagpositibo,” he explained in a statement dated June 28.

Three (3) more cases were reported after that day. Bicol#109, a 43-year-old male laborer, had been reported last June 29 to have had direct exposure to Bicol#92 and Bicol#100. The same case was true to Bicol#111 and Bicol#112 who were reported last June 30.

According to Legacion, the lockdown in the affected areas will continue. The testing of its residents via rapid antibody or swabbing will proceed if the regional health department approves it.

As of the last day of June, Naga City has recorded a total of 22 confirmed cases. Six (6) of which already recovered, one (1) died, while the other fifteen are still on active status.

Legacion urged the public to always comply with directives and guidelines to prevent the spread of the virus.

MASKED RIDERS. As Naga City welcomed Bicolano commuters from Metro Manila last March 15, health protocols regarding the wearing of face masks and physical distancing were strictly implemented, in a bid to keep the virus from entering the City. WORDS BY JIBRIL LORENTE AND PHOTO BY VAN JOSE MARTINEZ

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President Lauraya to Batch 2020:

‘Uphold truth, integrity always’ JIBRIL ALLEEN LORENTE Despite the postponement of their commencement exercises due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Batch 2020 received a message from Dr. Fay Lea Patria Lauraya, telling them to “uphold truth and dignity always.”

Through a message posted on the University of Nueva Caceres Facebook Page last June 2, Dr. Lauraya wishes for UNCean Graduates to uphold those values.

“I hope that your time in UNC has impressed upon your hearts and minds all that is essential to being a brave and upright individual. Uphold truth and integrity always, for these are what will protect you from the primordial maladies of human nature. Be an advocate of knowledge and learning, as a lifelong learner,” she said.

She then assured Batch 2020 that there is no cancellation of the graduation rites. Instead, it will happen at a later date.

“The year 2020 is an extraordinary year for all humanity.

Along with it, Batch 2020 will forever be remembered as the COVID19 batch. We are not cancelling any graduation plans. We are just reserving the right date to make your batch Commencement Exercises the most memorable one,” she declared.

Dr. Lauraya proceeded to congratulate the graduates, emphasizing that their success over their struggles is one big reason for celebration.

“Your batch, despite the delayed ceremonies, is the most celebrated batch. Despite the most difficult hurdles, you made it in time to the finish line. The harvest is rich. It is one big reason to celebrate,” she added.

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ORAGONS UNITE

Bicolanos rally vs. Anti-Terrorism Bill amid pandemic risks JIBRIL ALLEEN LORENTE No amount of inclement weather and arrest risks stopped various Bicolano sectoral groups to launch an Independence Day protest, dubbed as “Mañanita”, on June 12 in Naga City, primarily intended to slam the passage of the AntiTerrorism Bill (ATB).

While wearing party hats and holding colorful balloons and placards, the groups took their various calls for social reforms and justice to the Plaza Quince Martires at 9:30 AM, where a solidarity program was held.

UNCeans join protest Present in the program was UNC Law School Board Governor Khian Jamer who shared his reasons why the people should not support the Bill. One of those is the unconstitutionality of its provisions.

“Sabi sa ATB, any suspected terrorists can be detained for 14 days, extendable for another 10 days. So, ako, ‘pag inakusaran ako na terorista, 24 days akong makukulong. Dai ako kakasuhan kan government, nakakulong lang ako duman,” he said.

According to Section 18, Article VII of the 1987 Constitution, “any person thus arrested or detained shall be judicially charged within three days, otherwise, he shall be released.”

Jamer then cited the exclusion of the 500,000-peso penalty from the Human Security Act of 2007 for any false accusation against anyone.

“Tano ta takot sindang magbayad nin P500,000 kada saro? Dahil aram ninda na madalion lang sindang mang-aakusar,” he added, believing that the penalty could be a safeguard for any false accusation made by the government.

Despite the fear of speaking up against those in power, Jamer said, “Sana, kita man gabos, dai kita matakot, and kung matakot man kita, isipon ta na this is bigger than ourselves.

This is bigger than our rights. Laban para sa bayan!”

Grade 11 ICT-CP learner Diego Peralta was also present, and said that not joining was a “mistake.”

“I joined the Mañanita as I felt that not joining was a mistake. I cannot stand by and just

INDEPENDENCE DAY BASH. Amid colorful placards and balloons, protesters vehemently condemned the passage of the Anti-Terrorism Bill in the Independence Day ‘Mananita’ last June 12 at the Plaza Quince Martires, Naga City. WORDS BY JIBRIL LORENTE AND PHOTO BY JUVIN DURANTE

watch as our democracy dies from a thousand cuts, as Maria Ressa said. As they stay deaf to our cries in social media, we will shout louder but this time in the streets,” he explained.

With his placard, Peralta gained various reactions from several people online. “‘2:30 smol pp’ is what I chose as my placard. 2:30 is the ‘one who shall not be named’ while ‘smol pp’ is a funny insult, popularized

by PewDiePie and also Davie504. Well, I and my friends are big, big fans of PewDiePie, and we are very upset with our government’s incompetence, especially with ‘you know who’,” he said.

Drivers to gov’t: ‘Ibalik niyo na po kami sa paghahanapbuhay’ Driver-representatives of Condor PISTON Bicol also shared their frustration over their income losses due to the months-long lockdown imposed by the government.

KHIAN JAMER Governor, UNC Law School Board

UNC student groups oppose Anti-Terrorism Bill:

‘This could be weaponized vs. activism, dissent’ JIBRIL ALLEEN LORENTE “This measure could be weaponized against groups and organizations which actively engage in activism and dissent as their form of political participation,” the University Student Ambassadors, together with other student groups of the University of Nueva Caceres, condemned the Anti-Terror Bill in its unity statement, dated June 17.

Concerned about certain provisions in the legislation, they believe that instead of upholding the rights of the people, it might lead to human rights violations instead.

“The bill creates a council which could authorize law enforcers to arrest suspected terrorists without a judicial warrant and subject them to detention up to 24 days without any formal charge,” they cited.

The Student Ambassadors continued that rather than the citizens being served and protected by the law, the law will “once again be used against the people.”

Emphasizing the University’s core values, the Student Ambassadors encouraged the public to hold the administration accountable for its ‘transgressions.’

“As students of the University of Nueva Caceres, we strive to be ‘upright & brave’ and shed light on others, not just in school but in life. As we live up to the University core values of ‘championing excellence’ and ‘doing the right things right,’ it is time for us to stand up and save our country from the transgressions of this administration,” they urged.

Despite seeing the threat brought about by terrorism to the country, they believed that such legislation must not be signed into law as the country is facing the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We believe that a bill as critical as this cannot be made into law amid a global pandemic. We also believe that repelling terrorism should not come at the expense of compromising constitutional rights,” they said.

The Student Ambassadors ended the statement by declaring that they are ‘firmly opposed’ to the Anti-Terror Bill, which has already reached President Rodrigo Duterte.

Naga City cancels mass gatherings during Peñafrancia Fiesta MARINELA SABORDO The Archdiocese of Caceres, in coordination with the City Government of Naga, cancelled the annual processions, parades, and other big events in this year’s Peñafrancia Festival due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The said decision was announced at a press conference held last June 27 at the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Penafrancia.

“To secure the free exercise and expression of religious faith and devotion while ensuring adequate preventive measures against the spread of COVID-19 for the common good, public health, and community welfare,” they explained in a joint statement.

The cancelled events are as follows: Traslacion procession,

Fluvial procession, dawn procession, Perdon, Harubay, Voyadores Festival, Civic and Military parades, Miss Bicolandia and other pageants, trade fairs, exhibits, competitions, and concerts.

Touching and kissing the image of Our Lady of Peñafrancia is also announced suspended.

Despite these cancellations, Caceres Archbishop Most Rev. Rolando J. Tria Tirona assured that the decision was not made to “lessen the intensity” of the celebration.

“We are just trying to moderate and modify our external expression of these festivities,” he said.

Archbishop Tirona also said that local parish priests will organize a system to control the number of pilgrims in their respective areas so that pilgrims will no longer need to travel to

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“Ibalik niyo na po kami sa paghanapbuhay, dahil po hindi lang pamilya namin ang nahihirapan, pati na ang ating mga mananakay,” Condor PISTON Bicol spokesperson plead to the local government and to the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board.

Afterward, the groups then stormed the Plaza Oragon, near the Naga City People’s Mall, to continue the program.

One of the highlights of the program was the burning of a paper-printed Chinese flag to which the groups considered as an assertion of the sovereignty of the country from China.

Despite the warnings from the Department of Justice and Philippine Nation Police (PNP), participants were assured that the protest could continue provided that safety protocols are observed, according to PNP Naga Station 1 Commander Gilbert Otivar.

The protest ended with the calls and challenges among the participants to continue serving the Philippines, especially its minorities.

No one from the participants was arrested.

‘Everyone makes it:’ UNCeans free to pick learning modalities for S/Y 2020-2021 CHARLES KRYXIAN LARA Depending on their convenience, as well as their internet connection, students are free to choose which learning modalities being offered by the University of Nueva Caceres (UNC) for School Year 2020-2021, guaranteeing that ‘everyone makes it.’

Through Memorandum no. 23, s. 2020, UNC President Dr. Fay Lea Patria M. Lauraya introduced the “Resilient Education Delivery (RED) Version 3.0”, containing two approaches to which UNCeans can choose from—(1) Modular Modality and (2) Flexible TechDriven Modality.

Modular Modality will cater to students with zero internet connectivity at home. They shall receive RED Learning Kits, a detailed printed course guide containing what must be done every month of the semester, upon enrollment, or prior to the start of first semester classes.

“The course guide will contain the following essential elements, but not limited to: course objectives, course outline, learning materials, course requirement, and grading system, assignments with due dates like term papers and reports, projects with due dates, a compilation of all reading resources which will be chosen by the faculty, as well as the examination schedule,” she enumerated.

Described as a “home-study with a teacher,” the RED Learning Kit is designed for self-directed learning with periodic consultation to the teachers.

“Students, while on self-study mode as guided by the very detailed course guide, will still be under the supervision of their professor who shall be available for consultation during the subject period in accordance with the schedule of classes,” Dr. Lauraya

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The PANTOGRAPH NOVEMBER 2019 - JUNE 2020

Naga Anti-Terror Bill protest ends with no dispersal, arrest ALL RESTLESS, NONE ARRESTED. Saying how ”we cannot let them stagnate us inside our homes,” protesters expressed concerns with how the Anti-Terrorism Bill can muzzle dissent - all while expecting dispersal and arrest by the local police unit. However, the protest ended with no trouble. WORDS BY JIBRIL LORENTE AND PHOTO BY JUVIN DURANTE

RHYNAPHINE JABONILLO Despite expecting arrests and dispersal, like in the University of the Philippines - Cebu, the protest condemning the Anti-Terrorism Bill, led by Anakbayan Naga City last June 6 at Plaza Quince Martires, Naga City, pushed through with neither arrest nor dispersal.

“It’s the bare minimum when they allowed us because obviously we’re not violating any quarantine protocol and we don’t need permission to hold a protest,” Anakbayan pointed out, citing the fact that the at least 165 participants were wearing face masks and observing physical distancing.

With no quarantine protocols violated, they declared that “it’s possible to combat the virus and state fascism at the same time,” believing that the physical restrictions brought by the community quarantine were used to quickly pass the legislation.

“We cannot let them stagnate us inside our homes,” they continued.

They also cited how the Bill was certified ‘urgent’ amid the COVID-19 pandemic hitting the country.

“There are other things that require immediate action. To prioritize a bill like this in the middle of a pandemic is very telling,” they stressed.

Anakbayan added that the provisions of detention and surveillance upon suspicion of being a terrorist are an “attack” to constitutional rights and civil liberties.

“We see how they manipulate the law in the pursuit of their selfish aims. Under this bill, anyone can be arrested for mere suspicion. The heightened surveillance and period of detention is alarming because people can be subjected to harassment and torture,” they explained.

They continued that aside from threatening the rights of the public, the Anti-Terror Bill may also put activists, as well as journalists, into

danger.

“The Anti-Terrorism Bill of 2020 endangers the lives, not just of activists, but all of the politically outspoken. While the bill does not explicitly curtail our freedom of speech, the bill poses fear against government critics because the definition of terrorism may be interpreted to silence dissent. Even without the bill, the state maliciously brands journalists as “terrorists” whenever they write articles that expose the corruption of public officials,” Anakbayan claimed.

According to them, human rights violations in the country may worsen, especially those targeting the said people.

“While activists and journalists have long experienced these forms of state violence— being branded as terrorists and enemies of the state, the bill will do nothing but amplify and legitimize all forms of human rights violations,” Anakbayan added.

It was also said that even before the Anti-Terror Bill came into light, so-called ‘state-terrorism’ has already taken place in the country.

“We have the extrajudicial

executions, unjustly detained political prisoners, Lumad schools closure, and displaced individuals. Recently, the Winston Ragos case, the arrest of six Piston drivers, and eight Cebuano protesters. And here in Bicol, from the records of Karapatan as of May 2020, we have a total of 556 human rights violation incidents.

Even before the passage of this Anti-Terrorism Bill we already have a long list of statesponsored attacks,” they said.

Meanwhile, Anakbayan pointed out that the problem with the current Human Security Act of 2007 was the implementation of existing laws, not the framework in which the Act operates.

“The Human Security Act of 2007, while may be subject to abuse, has been carefully constructed and scrutinized. It defines terrorism as acts that fall under the provisions of the Revised Penal Code. The problem is not the framework of the Act but the intention and implementation of existing laws. Hence, the creation of another anti-terrorism bill exposes the intention of lawmakers to silence activists, and not really to curb terrorism,” they explained.

Instead of the AntiTerror Bill, Anakbayan believes that the main way to address terrorism is to identify it.

“To address terrorism is to identify terrorism.

If terrorism is the use of violence and intimidation particularly against civilians then we think the state is our biggest terrorist. The state by nature,

UNCeans report multiple FB imposters JESKHA TRISHA CRUZAT Following the report of Tug-Ani, the official student publication of the University of the Phillippines (UP) Cebu, students, and alumni of the University Nueva Caceres (UNC), as well as other netizens, discovered and reported clones of their Facebook accounts last June 7.

“I saw my cloned account at around 10 AM today after I came across Tug-Ani’s report on the same case with some UP Cebu students. I tried to recall first if I happened to make any other accounts before when I was still in high school, but I couldn’t remember any,” Learning Facilitator and UNC alumnus Juvin Durante recounted.

Durante then suspected that his case could be similar to that of UP Cebu students.

A number of UNC students and alumni reported the same thing and took their complaints online informing their friends of their lone and official FB accounts as well as urging them to report their online imposters.

According to Tug-Ani, empty duplicate accounts started appearing last June 6, containing the names of their students after a protest against the controversial Anti-Terror Bill was held on their campus last June 5.

And overnight, the fake accounts named after real persons began to spawn around the country not just among UP students.

Kabataan Partylist, in a Facebook statement, said that such cases are “systematic and organized cyberattacks on people exercising their freedom of speech and expression, clearly intended to sow fear.”

“Since Duterte came to power in 2016, cyber-attacks, trolls, and the proliferation of fake news have been weaponized to attack the opposition as well as ordinary critics and dissenters of the regime. It was also reported that the government spends millions of people’s funds for these attacks,” Kabataan Partylist claimed.

However, despite the allegations of pro-Duterte

groups being the culprit, speculations that the cloning of accounts was a Facebook bug also surfaced.

Manila Bulletin TechNews and Business Tech Editor Samaniego Jr. recalled that “a few years ago, some UP students claimed that they were targeted on FB because of their political posts. Some sectors even supported their claim calling the excel file of those who said that they were logged out of FB a well-documented proof.”

“Turns out, it was a Facebook bug that automatically logs off anyone randomly,” he added.

Samaniego was referring to a related event in 2016, where some Facebook users were logged out randomly.

At first, it was perceived to be a political attack, since it happened during the issue of the Marcos burial. However, it turned out to be a Facebook glitch.

As the day continued, some of the duplicate accounts began sending threats or harassment to their real counterparts, particularly those who protested the Anti-Terrorism Bill and those critical to the government.

Amidst the issue, the UP Office of the Student Regent is encouraging the students not to panic, but instead, help each other in reporting suspicious accounts.

Using the hashtags, #HandsOffOurStudents and #ResistAsOne, various netizens have banded together to report the clones.

“We are encouraging everyone to remain vigilant and help report these suspicious accounts which can be used to spread malicious or suspicious content. Let us strengthen our ranks as we defend our democratic rights,” the League of Filipino Students urged the public.

The public is advised to keep track of their accounts and report fake accounts immediately.

and since its earliest origins, can legally use force which is reserved largely for the poor. If they refer to armed conflicts with the rebel groups, identify the roots of these insurgencies. Focus on eradicating poverty. Focus on the legitimate calls of the people,” they said.

Should the bill be signed into law, Anakbayan declared that it will not prevent the masses to speak up.

“No signature of a president can stop the masses from protesting, the same way the Martial Law didn’t stop the culmination of EDSA People Power Revolution,” they stressed.

Anakbayan also believed that this protest, as well as similar ones held throughout the country, had caused changes that can be observed.

“The on-the-ground protest done here in Naga City was not the only protest that happened that day and the days before. The youth has continuously used their social [media] platforms to air their sentiments regarding the Anti-Terror Bill, and that includes spamming their district representative’s office E-mail for them to withdraw their votes. Because of these protests, several congressmen have already withdrawn their ‘yes’ votes,” they said.

Anakbayan, as well as the MAKABAYAN Bloc in Congress, announced that the protest is not the end of their protests on “oppressive policies”, not just the Anti-Terrorism Bill.

“The people’s fight, not just of the youth, against this oppressive policy will not stop with one on-the-ground protest. There will be more protests and it will not end there.

Our representatives in the congress, the MAKABAYAN Bloc, will continuously fight and lobby the concerns of the people regarding the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 and other oppressive policies,” they declared.

Aside from Anakbayan Naga City, other youth groups in the City were present, such as the progressive groups Anakbayan - Ateneo de Naga University, Jovenes Anakbayan, Bikolana Gabriela Youth, as well as ThePILLARS Publication and the AdNU Supreme Student Government.

UNC enforces safety protocols vs COVID-19 JIBRIL ALLEEN LORENTE Aiming to safeguard the campus from the threat of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in the country, University of Nueva Caceres Vice-President for Administration (VPA) Leon Palmiano, IV reinforced safety protocols.

In a memorandum issued by VPA Palmiano, dated March 12, he mandated that all University employees, students, guests, and visitors must abide by the University safety protocols. Everyone, including those in vehicles, should submit themselves to the mandatory temperature checking before entering the campus. VPA Palmiano emphasized that anyone who will have a temperature greater than 38°C shall be deprived of entry on the campus.

“All frontline personnel (operations, teaching, security, and utility) should always wear masks when in school premises... The administration shall ensure the provision of these masks,” VPA Palmiano added.

VPA Palmiano, on the other hand, instructed the Property Office “to ensure the availability of 70% isopropyl alcohol dispenser along the entrance of the school (gate), Principal’s/Dean’s offices, and in the other offices.” The Property Office shall also provide liquid soap among restroom users while the director of facilities shall ensure the adequate supply of water.

The Maintenance Department is reminded by VPA Palmiano “to intensify the daily sanitation of classroom tables and chairs, restrooms, offices, and library with 70% alcohol or any other similar sanitizing agents.”

“Special attention must be given to doorknobs, armrests, tabletops, ledges and railings, and other easily contaminable surfaces,” VPA Palmiano emphasized.

To ensure better on-the-ground monitoring, all heads of offices are designated to check on the health conditions of their respective staff and students and shall report immediately to the University Clinic.

Moreover, VPA Palmiano emphasized that conduct of in/off-campus activities that would generate large crowds is highly discouraged.

He also required all the classroom advisers/teachers to hold a

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President-elect Cartujano on SSG plans:

‘SSG to get closer to students’ JIBRIL ALLEEN LORENTE “I and the officers can agree that we would want to be closer to the students,” the newlyelected Supreme Student Government (SSG) President Chloe Cartujano of the Tingog Party expressed after the elections last February 21.

However, due to the threat of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, they had to change their plans as face-to-face classes have been suspended until further notice, and the University of Nueva Caceres has adapted Flexible Learning via Modular and Flexible Tech-Driven learning modalities.

“The pandemic, like any other people, has

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Malaya staffer wins 5th place in NSPC 2020

made a mess of our plans for this year, or rather this school year. Most of the platforms consisted of face to face interaction, but since we are in this kind of situation, where physical interaction is limited, the SSG has thought up alternatives for some of it,” Cartujano stressed.

To substitute the Ibayo, the OrSem for incoming Grade 11 students, a virtual OrSem is being planned out, and specific details will be revealed to the students once the plan has been finalized.

“Currently. the SSG is preparing the virtual OrSem that we are going to have with the incoming Grade 11 students and transferees of Senior High.

Details will be further explained once [the] preparation is almost done and we are allowed to announce the whole program in public,” she explained.

The SSG President also announced two (2) programs that they will be implementing once classes reopen this August 24, which aim to address concerns from students regardless of the learning modality chosen.

The first one is the Consultation Hour, which is mainly for those who will choose the Flexible Tech-Driven modality.

“Originally, the idea was to create a schedule where students can visit the office for their concerns or consultation. Now, we made it so students (both grade 11 & 12) can visit a zoom meeting where the SSG officers will be waiting, and communicate their concerns with us. Schedule for this program has yet to be decided but we are considering it once every week or 2 weeks,” she discussed.

The next program is Paper Slips. It is similar to the previous one, albeit

WORD WAR. Supreme Student Government Presidential candidates Aquinnah Tongbaban (left) and Chloe Cartujano (right) exchange arguments on social issues during the debate segment of the Miting de Avance last February 18 at the Students’ Pavilion.

Cartujano bested Tongbaban with a total of 301 votes. She will be leading the SSG together with her vicepresident, Joshua Andrey Doce.

KATRINA HABANA Ma. Christine Moreno of MALAYA, the official student publication of the UNC Senior High School in Filipino, bagged the 5th place in the Secondary Editorial Writing (Filipino) of this year’s National Schools Press Conference (NSPC), held last February 17 to 21 in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan.

Moreno’s victory imprinted a big mark on the UNC Senior High School history as it is the very first win of the department in the said competition, since its establishment in 2016.

According to Moreno, she didn’t expect to win. “My exhausted body got all hyped and I just jumped. I was really happy. I felt like my heart would burst. I’m glad that, at least, my first and last NSPC is still memorable,” she said.

According to her, reading the latest news and opinions from reliable personalities is her way of preparing. It helped her a lot since, in the contest proper, the topic given was an old one.

She shared that she panicked at first because the topic wasn’t the latest, but she’s glad she remembered something about it since she has read about it before.

“A journalist should be fearless and not complacent. Sometimes we get to be afraid because of all the things that are happening right now where criticisms are seen as rebellion.

So, I think, if you’re fearless in a way that you’re confident enough with the truth you are delivering, people will see you as reliable,” she added.

During the Regional Schools Press Conference in Legazpi City, Albay, she managed to get the 2nd place, thus earning her the ticket to the National level. She also ranked 2nd during the Division Schools Press Conference held at the Naga Central School II. Moreno also believes in the saying that ‘every new day is another chance for you to improve,’ which inspired her to strive harder.

Moreno was coached

by Juvin Durante and Charlene Kris Borbe, technical advisers of MALAYA.

mainly for those who will opt for Modular modality.

“The idea is to create paper slips (the size of those used in the banks) and delivered along with the learning kit of the students who chose the modular learning program or Flexi Kit. There is a possibility that the students chose this learning program due to little or no internet connection. In order to address their concerns, paper slips will be delivered and the SSG will receive it back,” she added.

They are also considering the use of tablets, as the gadget will be provided to all students.

“Hopefully, with the use of the tablets, we can address their concerns immediately,” she said.

Cartujano also hopes that with their programs, the visibility of the SSG officers will be increased, as it is one of their main objectives.

“One of our goals has always been to strengthen the communication between the officers, students, and admin. We are still trying to come up with other programs and events, but until we can create an event that is applicable to both learning groups, we will focus on addressing the concerns of the student body,” she continued.

Meanwhile, the other elected officers include: Joshua Andrey Doce, vice-president; Maycel Alsol, secretary; Lhea Borja, treasurer; Augelle Manila, auditor; Erika Coronel, public information and relations officer; Franshen Estrella, STEM representative; John Bueza, ABM representative; Joemhari Fesico, TVL representative; and Jerilyn Nolasco, GAS representative.

ANNE CHLOE CARTUJANO President-elect, SHS Supreme Student Government

WORDS BY JIBRIL LORENTE AND PHOTO

BY KERENHAPPUCH VIÑAS

SHS Open Mic goes to SM City Naga JESKHA TRISHA CRUZAT Sixteen (16) students of the UNC Senior High School were given the chance to perform their originally written literary pieces during the Open Mic 2.0 at SM City Naga, held last February 22.

The said performers are as follows: ABM 12 - Julia Mae M. Nero, Ma. Ciela S. Belardo, Elouiza Gay R. Uvas, and Jenivie K. Novio; STEM 12 - Stella Mariz Mariano, Rhoni Marjonelle Escaro, Mark Mercado, KerenHappuch Vinas, Gian Edward Cabral, Emmanuel Josh Sabaybay, Carl Ivan Abiog, and Rejean Kyle Eluzon; and GAS 12 - Ron Ron B. Valencia, Allyssa Dycoco, Meradine Ilano, and Mia Panganiban.

The said event was the culmination of the 21st Century Literature course taken by all grade 12 learners in the third quarter of the school year. All the learners enrolled in the said course were tasked to write their original literary pieces, either a poem, a short story, or a listicle.

The abovementioned learners were chosen to have the best literary pieces and the best performances in their respective classroom versions of the Open Mic. “It’s surreal. I always dream of having a chance to share my thoughts with people about how I think. The whole event was full of fear, excitement, and glory. And I am always grateful for the opportunity,” Ciela Belardo of ABM A said as she recounted her experience from the event.

Aside from it being the final output, Open Mic served to take a bigger picture in showcasing literature by different people of this day and age.

“I intended my piece to be a wake-up call to both our generation and to those before us. It was to say that the youth is so much more than what they label us to be. I was heavily influenced by the common narrative that some adults have that ‘the children are no good these days’ and also by the term ‘okay boomer’,” Cabral explained the inspiration behind his piece, entitled ‘We are the Youth.

Not only literary pieces were served during the event, but performers

from Glee Club and Dance Troupe, headed by Joalex Nillo and Eulo Boongaling, repsectively, also presented their prepared performances.

Members of the University Film Society also showed their support for the performers by covering the said event.

“Our annual Open Mic is not only a clear manifestation of how good our learners are with regard to speaking before a crowd. It’s a concrete reflection of how creative and brilliant their minds are in expressing their messages to other people through literature,” Juvin Durante, grade 12 learning facilitator (LF), said.

According to Durante, what made this year’s Open Mic different is the vast array of topics chosen by the performers.

“It did not only revolve around the usual romantic topics, but it also tried to explore other issues relevant to the lives of our students and other people,” Durante added.

The Open Mic 2.0 was facilitated by all grade 12 English LFs, headed by Learning Supevisor Nikko Junio and Asst. Principal for Student Affairs Melinda Susana Dy, who proposed of bringing the project outside the campus.

Prior to the said event, 23 grade 12 learners, WAKE-UP CALL. In his piece ‘We are the Youth,’ Gian Cabral spoke including those of how the current generation can who performed in SM City achieve more than what they are Naga, performed in its earlier perceived to be by those of the previous ones during the Open Mic 2.0 installment held last January held at SM City Naga last February 22.

22 at the UNC Social Hall.

WORDS BY JIBRIL LORENTE AND It was headed by Julie Ann PHOTO BY CHLOE CARTUJANO Morcillo, grade 12 English LF.

06 N E W S

The PANTOGRAPH NOVEMBER 2019 - JUNE 2020

Amid COVID-19 threat,

UNC celebrates 72nd anniv with safety precautions CYRA CHRISYHEL CASTILLA Despite the emerging threat of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the country, the University of Nueva Caceres pushed through with the celebration of its 72nd foundation anniversary last February 13-16 with safety precautions in place.

foundation anniversary is so close to its 75th, three (3) years from now will be its diamond jubilee and still climbing the age of growth as an academic institution.

The President ended her opening message with a remarkable quote:

“Spring lasts forever, to one who discovers that love is not something one great sport, it is for one who is totally immersed in the joy of his existence,” and added, “Life doesn’t start after graduation, life is now. Let’s enjoy every moment, let’s enjoy someone’s company, let’s find love in every day that we exist.”

As per the directive of Vice-President for Administration Leon Palmiano, IV, all stakeholders were advised to observe extra precaution and basic hygiene practice to avoid the possible spread and contamination of COVID-19 while on the campus.

Everyone was advised to submit themselves to the temperature checking at all the entrance and exit points of the University. Anyone who would “manifest high temperature (38°C or higher), he/she will be refused entry to the university campus.”

At that period, there was no record of confirmed COVID-19 case yet in the Bicol Region, particularly in Naga City.

UNC 3 years away from its diamond Jubilee With the theme, “UNC in 2020: Non Scholae Sed Vitae”, the four-day celebration commenced with a ‘Tala’ flash mob last Feb. 13 on the UNC ground. The Senior High School department actively participated in the Tala dance craze along with other departments: elementary, Junior High School, and College.

Dr. Fay Lea Patria M. Lauraya, the fourth University president, recalled the changes in UNC from its foundation up today in her opening message.

Dr. Lauraya highlighted in her speech the purpose of celebrating the foundation anniversary every year. “First is to be grateful and to feel blessed that we, our generation today, are partakers and receivers of those who came before us, to make sure that we are celebrating 72nd foundation day. Second, to honor the fruits of the work and contribution of the men and women who offer their life for UNC. And not to forget why UNC was born.”

Furthermore, in her speech, she also emphasized that UNC celebrating its 72nd

Other activities on the first day, such as CAMPeers: A Well-Being Fun Day, held at EcoCanteen Cottages, were also participated by the Peer Facilitators Club members.

SHS bags MMU 1st runner-up titles The Senior High School Department cheered as the SHS representatives, Jyle Anthony C. Diaz and Michelle Sophia M. Corrales, were crowned as this year’s Mr. and Ms. University 1st runnersup last February 13 at UNC Sports Palace.

John Kert Rabeje of Arts and Science and Kate N. Tomes of Business and Accountancy were hailed as the Mr. and Ms. University 2020.

Kim Alexis Macalindog of Engineering and Architecture and Jianne R. Malonda of Junior High School were proclaimed as second runnersup.

Despite not having a back-to-back win for Ms. University and getting the first crown for Mr. University, the two made it to the top and bagged multiple awards. Diaz grabbed 5 out of 7 special awards including the Mr. Photogenic award, People’s Choice Award garnering 6, 800 votes, Mr. Max Smile, Best in

Production Number, and Official Candidate Shirt Ambassador, while Corrales took home the Ms. Photogenic Award, People’s Choice Award, and Best in Evening Gown Award.

During the final question and answer portion, both of them proved that they are visuals with brains. Diaz answered the question “As a UNCean, what makes you feel proud of your school?”

“As a UNCean, I am very proud because I’ve done the things I never did before. One of those things is being here on stage. I was never a person with balls in a lot of things and a lot of people. I was a very shy person. As a SHS student, I learned how to be very vocal and cooperate with our classmates and learn how to improve as a person,” he answered.

While Corrales was given the question “Should you be crowned as Miss University, how would you use your title to influence and to improve the school?”

She answered, “I know I have a voice within me. If I were given a chance to be the next Ms. University, I will use that voice, and I will be proud to use it because I know that in a school where everyone is strong enough to stand up for themselves, the school will be the best.”

After being crowned as the first runners-up, both of them are thankful to their dear families, friends and, of course, to the entire Senior High School Department, who supported and cheered for them throughout the pageant.

Corrales especially mentioned her amazing faculty mentors, Celine Salvador, Juancho Romero, and Kirth Cordiz, and said, “I feel honored (and pressured) that they chose me to represent. I was skeptical at first because pageants aren’t really my thing but they were really good at handling me. They managed to transform me into my best self and convinced me that I can do it.”

SHS-led team champs the first UNC Olympics The Senior High School faculty members and staff-led Pink Team championed the UNC Olympics 1.0, held last February 15 at the UNC Grounds and Covered Courts, with 110 points.

They were teamed up with the offices of Student Affairs and the University Registrar.

“The most obvious strength of our team

that led us to be the champions was us being younger and more active than the other teams,” Mar Vincent Saba, learning facilitator (LF), said.

“We are able to achieve more wins by really working as a team,” he added, which manifested the goal of the event which is to promote a united relationship among the employees of UNC. Asked about their experience, he said, “It was so great because, aside from paper and online work that we do, UNC gave us the avenue where we can still do other things that will develop leadership, planning, and teamwork while having fun.”

The team received a cash prize and a perpetual trophy.

SHS joins the Greyhound Color Run The Senior High School students ran with the other UNC departments in the Greyhound Color Run last February 16 on the main streets of Naga City. It marked the end of the weeklong celebration of the 72nd UNC Foundation Anniversary.

According to Physical Education LF Remark Gavica, the purpose of the said event is “for the students to enjoy, at the same time, to promote physical fitness.” He also added that the proceeds of the registration, which is worth P150 per participant, will fund the scholarship of the UNC varsitarians, their other expenses for the Private School Athletic Association (PRISAA) on March 12-15, other equipment, and future projects.

The course started at the UNC’s main gate, where the students practically took a shower using a fire hose and were splashed with bubble machines. “I will not forget the bubbles on my head, and the moment being splashed with water all over my body and going through a gauntlet of color powder,” Joey Antonio, STEM student, reminiscing her experience that day.

“We were just literally making the most out of it, taking aesthetic pictures, playing, and admiring the color paints and foam with friends.

Events, like this, give the students an enjoyable experience and a break from stress,” Jerolyn Moreno, ABM student, said.

Most of the participants mentioned that they really enjoyed the event and hoping for another similar event.

Familympics 2020 ‘breathing space from daily lives’: San Jose KATRINA HABANA To raise progress in the communication of the entire school community with the students and their families, the UNC Senior High School held its annual Family Day, with the theme “Familympics 2020: #WeWinAsFamily”, last January 26.

This year’s Family Day aimed to connect bonds and support quality time among the UNCeans and the school personnel by bringing different activities where everyone is engaged.

“The Familympics 2020 intends to allow loved ones to take a breathing space from their own daily lives and spend quality time together as one family,” Nelia E. San Jose, SHS Principal, said.

According to the SSG President, Jenivie K. Novio, this is the day where we give thanks as students to our parents with all the sacrifices, loving care, and hardships they have done for us; for always staying on our side, not leaving us, giving all our demands, and supporting our race every step of the way.

The Familympics 2020 was composed of activities including Basketball, Volleyball, Boxing, Walkathon, Dodgeball, Pickleball, and Beerpong where students with their families can join.

The program was led by the chosen students from ABM B, who gave an intermission number, together with the Theater Club, who ushered the singing of the National Anthem. The students, parents, and staff were serenaded with a song number by the SHS Glee Club and by Rainier Ramos and his daughter, then accompanied by a message to the children by Julio C. Ortiz Jr., the PTA President.

Different teams were presented followed by the singing of the theme song “We Win as Family”. The opening of the Familympics was then declared by Melinda Susana Dy, the Assistant Principal for Student Affairs.

“The advantages of having this kind of activity to me and my family is that we had an opportunity to enjoy and celebrate it together once in a while. Also creating a stronger emotional bond between parents and children, allowing for better communication between family members,” Augelle Manila of Grade 11-STEM O said, whose family attended the event.

According to her, to make the event be more significant and worthwhile, she would like to suggest that the activities be improved in order for everyone to engage well without hesitation. With this, all family members will have fun and avoid boredom.

The event was wrapped-up by the PTA Raffle Draw and the announcement of winners for Fun Awards, Awarding of Champion per event and for the over-all champion, who happened to be the ABM Strand.

THE FAMILY THAT PLAYS TOGETHER, WINS TOGETHER. Students, together with their parents participate in various events during the Family Day 2020 held on the University campus last January 26, which aimed to give families the opportunity to spend time with one another. WORDS JIBRIL LORENTEAND PHOTOS BY KEREN-HAPPUCH VIÑAS

N E W S 07

/uncpantograph

Debate Circle team advances to BDO Finals HAZEL VALDEAVILLA JOHN DOMINIC Franzuela and Sharmie Ann Abalayan of the UNC Senior High School Debate Circle advanced to the grand finals of the 5th Bicol Debate Open (BDO) last November 22-25.

Hosted by the UNC Debate Circle, the said debate tournament was participated in by various schools from Luzon.

“I was grateful for reaching the Open Grand Finals. It was gratifying considering that I was the only high school student competing against college students, graduates, and legends of the Philippine debate community,” Franzuela, STEM 11 Engineering student, said.

According to him, he thought that “the price of our success is hard work, persistence, and determination that whether we win or lose, we applied and did the best of ourselves.”

“That is, after all, what matters. This is a breakthrough in my debate career, and I hope that it will continue,” Franzuela he added.

Franzuela and Abalayan competed with the teams from Ateneo de Naga University, San Beda University, and Universidad de Sta. Isabel during the grand finals.

Meanwhile, Jerolyn and Christian Johree Moreno were High School Cup Semi-finalists. Nica Deannise Berlon and Coleen Therese Agsao were the High School Cup Breaking Team. Marl Arrion Cacho was the 10th Best Adjudicator and for the Reserved Adjudicator, High School Cup Grand Finals Adjudicator was Nicole Jemina Cordial.

SHS hits Roco Cup 13 semi-finals finish Earlier that year, the Raul Roco Cup 13: Debate RE13OLUSYON (RC13) was held at the Universidad de Sta. Isabel

ON POINT. John Dominic Franzuela of the UNC Debate Circle presents his arguments during the grand finals of the Bicol Debate Open, held last November 25 at the SM City Naga.

WORDS AND PHOTO BY JUDY DE JESUS

last August 24-28, where they were able to reach the semifinals.

Dara Sofia Cartujano, Jenivie Novio, Nica Deannise Berlon, and Coleen Therese Agsao were the semifinalists, whereas Christian Moreno and Jude Ogarte were quarterfinalists.

Agsao and Berlon felt honored, playing as the Team UNC SHS E that ranked 20 in the overall tournament with 12 wins, the highest among the other UNC SHS teams.

“It felt overwhelming. Until now, I still can’t believe Nica and I [were] able to advance to the semi-finals given that it was our first time to join a debate tournament. In addition, it was fulfilling since I was able to share and reach this achievement with my all-time best friend, Nica,” Agsao said.

Meanwhile, Berlon emphasized that the most important thing in the competition is the strategies that she and her partner were able to come up with.

“Aside from the continuous training that we had with the Circle and our coaches, it also requires courage, self-determination, strong will to fight and confidence, but the most important thing is to strategize with your partner. Our strategy was funny. We had 3 points in the 1st round and 0 during the second. Later on, we planned to continue the trend of alternate wins,” Berlon added.

She continued that, with that strategy, making it through the rounds would be easier.

“Knowing that every time we lose and get 0, we would be pitted against teams who also have the same standing as our points, some of them are even more beginners than us so it’s kind of easier for us to pass through. We took that chance to win. And we did,” she added.

The Circle made records, in which their progress was more evident compared to their previous results in the said tournaments.

Some even had a chance to compete for the Philippine Schools Debate Championship 2020 last January 9-12 at the Ateneo de Manila University but didn’t reach the breaking points.

‘Panyo’ ranks 3rd on Penafrancia Short Film Fest CHARLES KRYXIAN LARA Carrying the flag of University of Nueva Caceres (UNC) Senior High School (SHS), ‘Panyo,’ directed by Hendrex John Olaviaga, managed to rank third in the 5th Peñafrancia Short Film Festival, with the theme “The YOUTH: Beloved, Gifted, Empowered through INA, Our Lady of Peñafrancia,” among schools within Camarines Sur. The Awards Night was held at the Unibersidad de Sta. Isabel’s Auditorium last January 18.

Oliviaga, STEM-A student, said that the goal of the film was to send a message, that ‘faith is inevitable and it should be true to all.’

“The Goal of Panyo is to send a message, I’ve got a lot of unfinished films in the past with me having no idea at all why I can’t finish one. I questioned him, I doubted myself and then this happened. A new opportunity to create a film with a purpose to send the people a message. And I think that’s the reason why he secured me the director sit on this one. It is my purpose,” he explained.

While doing the entry, he added that his faith was changed by their entry. He also hopes that there will be more future projects.

“This was the first and hopefully not the last film I’ll be heading. I learned a lot, I got to experience new things and such. But if there’s something that changed upon the production of this film, it’s probably my faith as well. I’ve been through a lot in the process because of certain circumstances that we can’t really avoid when creating a film but it’s when I always include him in the set,” Oliviaga continued.

There were two categories in the competition: School Category, a 20-minute short film in relation with the festival’s theme; and Parish Youth Category, participated by parish youth organizations from various Bikol Dioceses through a 1-minute infomercial showcasing Christian Values, Love for

God’s Creation, and Human Transformation.

There were nine (9) official entries in the School Category, including ‘Panyo.’ The others were: DUSAY by Patricia Anne Garcia of Ateneo de Naga University Junior High School; INAKO by Mark Jovan Bricia of Baao National High School; LAKAW by Alfranz Joy Cambiado of Ligao National High School; PANGITOROGAN by Joshua Alano of Naga City School of Arts and Trades; SINAG by Julieus Orias of San Fernando National High School; BAGONG TIPAN by Kim Anjho Diaz of Sorsogon National High School;; DAY 193

by Cheron Mika Vinzon of Universidad de Santa Isabel Senior High School; and MIDBID

by Monica Francia Prades of La Consolacion College -Baao.

The winners of the 5th Peñafrancia Festival are as follows: ‘INAKO’ of Baao National High School (Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Outstanding Child Performer, and Best Cinematography ), ‘Bag-ong Tipan’ of Sorsogon National High School (2nd Prize Best Picture, People’s Choice Award, and Best Actress), ‘Panyo’ of University of Nueva Caceres (3rd Prize Best Picture, and Best Poster), ‘Day 193’ of Unibersidad de Sta. Isabel (Special Award for Original Composition). For the Parish Youth Category, the Parish of St. Raphael from Basud, Camarines Norte got the 2nd Prize while the Parish of Immaculate Concepcion from Naga City clinched the 1st Prize.

2 STEM 11 studes occupy Principal’s F R O M P A G E 4 UNC enforces...

List after 3-sem vacancy HAZEL VALDEAVILLA After three (3) semesters of vacancy, the Principal’s List has been filled again this school year, after Jibril Lorente of 11 STEM O and Noel Adante Jr. of 11 STEM N occupied the list by the end of the second semester.

Lorente broke the vacancy during the First Semester Recognition Rites, held last December 14 at the UNC Covered Courts. This is after he managed to get a general weighted average (GWA) of flat 98.00 by the end of the semester.

Adante then entered the list by the end of the second semester, after garnering a GWA of 98.37. Lorente, meanwhile, was able to maintain his GWA of 98.00.

Moreover, several learners across all strands and levels also qualified for the Learning Supervisors’ List - for those who managed to get a GWA of 95-97, and the Learning Facilitators’ List - for those who got 90-94.

For the first semester, 22 Grade 11 learners qualified for the Learning Supervisor’s List, while 144 occupied the Learning Facilitator’s List. Meanwhile, in Grade 12, 46 Learning Supervisor’s Listers were recognized, and 66 Learning Facilitator’s Listers. This totals to 261 awardees, higher than that of the last school year.

For the second semester, 27 Grade 11 learners made it to the Learning Supervisors’ List, and 100 for the Learning Facilitators’ List. Meanwhile, 43 Grade 12 learners were Learning Supervisors’ Listers, and 47 Learning Facilitators’ Listers. This totals to 217 awardees.

Additionally, all top students in the first sem per strand were given cash incentives by the Parent-Teacher’s Association “You can do it! Try to find happiness in everything you do and enjoy doing your tasks even if it’s hard. You may complain, but you must never give up,” Lorente said to all the learners who are reaching for the Principal’s List during the first semester.

discussion on the foregoing University policies and protocols with their students.

Students are then reminded to follow the following safety measures: Bring and use personal hygiene kits; Practice proper hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette, and wearing and removing surgical masks; Sanitize before and after using chairs, tables, equipment, gadgets, and other easily contaminable objects/surfaces; Update and validate articles and news coming from various sources; Avoid or reduce direct exposure to animals, environments, objects, and sick people who may be possibly exposed to COVID-19; Drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious foods; and increase the body’s resistance through adequate rest and sleep.

Students with recent travel activities for the past week are required to visit the Clinic for checking by the School Nurse and will be requested to present a medical clearance the following day.

VPA Palmiano also reiterates that the canteen committee shall also follow the same protocols.

“Avoid spreading fake news about the COVID-19.

The DOH, WHO, and CDC websites are your best sources of information,” he reminded UNCeans.

He further encouraged UNCeans to seek divine intervention for everyone’s safety and health.

“Our united efforts will always be the key to combat CoViD-19,” he deemed.

Despite delay due to ‘Tisoy’,

UNC music orgs hold festivalthemed Christmas concert JESKHA TRISHA CRUZAT Musical Groups from the different organizations set forth a “magical” evening last December 12 as a Christmas Concert took place at the UNC Sports palace with the theme, “The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year.”

The Christmas Concert started with the Christmas medley overture entitled as Christmas Festival led by the University Band.

“At first, I felt very tense. I also felt the nervousness of my fellow “newbie” band members, I guess because of stage fright. But time after time, while playing every Christmas piece, I just felt the need to play every note with the right emotion and expression, just as what our band director always says. And in such a way, the nervousness just faded away unknowingly”, says Dio Emmanuel Sadang, UNC Band member as he recounts his first-ever Christmas Concert experience.

The overture was followed by the piece “Sa Araw ng Pasko” presented by the Voce Schola (Junior High School Choir) and the Senior High School Glee Club.

“My group or org (The University Glee Club), and for those who were part of the concert exerted a lot of effort. We spent much time practicing and preparing for the event. We made sure that we don’t break our bond and lose our connection with each other.” Francis Pacardo, SHS Glee club member stated as he unfolded the preparations that his organization did. “Singing/ Performing, and stage presence aren’t the only things that matter. There should always be a presence of mind and each one of us. For our group, If you don’t exert much effort as the others do, you can’t take the chance and be part of the event. But, we all did our part and we all felt contented.” he even added.

A variety of renditions and arrangements went after this including the medley “Kapamilya Pamasko that was executed by the same group of performers.

Planning of the event started as early as October, according to Mr. Joseph Condeno, the University Glee Club coordinator.

“The Concert’s original plan was to present the spirit, culture of simbang gabi in the Philippines. How simbang gabi was celebrated by millennials and the baby boomers; but due to “Tisoy”, we come up with the rendition of selected Christmas songs that are familiar and loved by all generations” Mr. Condeno on how they prepared for the concert.

The Christmas Concert has been held years prior and just became a formal institutional event last December 2018.

08 N E W S

The PANTOGRAPH NOVEMBER 2019 - JUNE 2020

Studes explore new classes in Ibang Klase ‘19 RHYNAPHINE JABONILLO

WE PLAY AS ONE. Jessica Marco (right) guides Angelica Dacudao (left) on how to play a ukelele in one of the classes in Ibang Klase 2019, held last November 7 at the AMS Building. WORDS AND PHOTO BY MA. CARMELA CALISURA

UNC freezes tuition, reduces other fees JIBRIL ALLEEN LORENTE No tuition fee increase will be implemented in the School Year 20202021 after the Basic Education Department unanimously voted to freeze such during the annual Tuition and Other Fees Increase (TOFI) consultation last February 8.

This decision has been reaffirmed by April 24, when an additional reduction in fees will be implemented due to the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic ending the second semester early.

In particular, students from the Higher Education level are guaranteed a refund from unused fees, namely: 20% of Energy and Internet fees; and 10% of the Library fee.

On its third installment, the 2019 Ibang Klase offered new classes to which all the UNC Senior High School students explored last November 7-8 at different locations in the City and on the campus.

The two-day event includes the following classes: Balloon twisting and basic workout is a combo class. Other combo classes include the following: Table Skirting and Coffee Painting; Basic Phone Photography & Editing, and Film Viewing; Go Karting and CPR Training; Voice Beatboxing and Archery; Hairdressing and Threading; K-Food Trip and Organic Facial Massage; Online Job Seminar and Modeling; Basic Sign Language and Film Viewing; Terrarium Making and Community Outreach; Calculator Manipulation and Sheng Zhen Meditation; Cake Decoration and Newscasting; Billiards and Voice Beatboxing; Giant Bubble Making and Coffee Making; Taichi and Rifle Assembly; Vlogging and Mushroom Burger Making; Special Effects Make-up and Basic Acting; Basic Filmmaking and Airplay Making; No-Cook

Baking and Expressive Movement Therapy; Motorcycle Safety Driving/Basic Bicycle Repair and Frisbee; Industrial Plant Visit and Bag Painting; and Basic Work-Out and Balloon Twisting.

“Somehow, it changed the way I see things, we should appreciate little things that we exert a lot of effort on. Just like balloon twisting, some people may find it boring to do and some even laugh at it, but I, on the other hand, was thinking that balloon twisting, simple yet it could bring joy to everyone when you just form a simple poodle or a flower,” Charlene Asuncion, who took the balloon twisting and basic work-out courses, said.

Solo classes, on the other hand, are courses that use the entire duration of the program. Cheerdancing, Arnis, Adobe Photoshop, Slow Dance, Social Dance, Sepak Takraw, Skateboarding, Ukulele, Basic Parkour Skills, Basketball Clinic, and Basic Self-Defense are the solo classes.

“I need to be alert and stay focused because when you’re in the situation, the tendency is to panic and the improper execution of basic self-defense,” John Paul Bueza, who took the basic self-defense course, said.

G12 studes partake in UNC’s ‘Pre-College Day’ KATRINA HABANA To provide knowledge and skills on what courses to take upon enrolling in college, the UNC Marketing Team held the Pre-College Day to all the Senior High School graduating students, held last January 10.

According to the UNC Marketing team, the main goal of the event is to let the graduating students of Senior High School experience a happy life in staying at the UNC, thus helping the students in deciding on what course to take upon going to college.

The Grade 12 students were given the chance to engage in different activities prepared by the different colleges. The purpose of the set of activities was to help the students enhance their knowledge and become more proficient on what course to pursue. The event offered aid to the students in witnessing a glance of life in being a college student.

The Pre-College Day encouraged all to select a course in college that suits their skills and choose a field that they are interested to study in to avoid shifting to another major that requires additional years in college.

“The Pre-College day is very helpful and brings a lot of advantages to the Grade 12 students because if they are not yet sure and haven’t

decided yet on what course they are going to take in college, upon attending the said event, they can already choose what to take base on the different activities provided by the department and hopefully, 90% stay in UNC,” Janet Reforsado Cantor, event head, said.

According to a STEM A student, it was very helpful since in her case, she was able to gain more understanding on the course that made him or her think very carefully if she can handle the stress that comes with it or if the course really covers his or her piques of interests. She added that college is something that is supposed to be considered seriously.

She said also that the event was very informative in a way that it reached his or her expectations that she or he will gain more understanding and be knowledgeable enough regarding the chosen course. The grade 12 student would like to commend the facilitators for thinking about what entertaining activities might catch their attention, thus maintaining its informative manner.

The facilitators provided a set of activities where the students participated. The graduating students were divided into groups according to what course they would like to take in college. The Social Hall and the AMS Building were some of the designated activity premises inside the UNC campus where the event was held. Each activity area was assisted by some of the facilitators who managed the talk and provided materials.

“For those who have already paid in full, the amount shall be credited to their accounts next semester; while for those who have not yet paid, the amount shall be deducted from their outstanding balances,” the University posted.

On the other hand, UNC deemed the other fees “utilized or can still be utilized.”

The University explained that actual expenses from the Laboratory Fee have already been incurred and students can still use the laboratory once the classes resume.

With regard to the Athletic Fee, “the University continues to pay for salaries of coaches and trainers even with ECQ. Athletes’ benefits have not been curtailed,” UNC clarified.

For the IMC Fee, projectors and television sets have already been purchased and installed in every classroom.

Despite the 10% refund, the UNC Library continues to serve the students, faculty members, and researchers through its online services.

Meanwhile, the University has enrolled all its students to MDKonsulta, a telehealth service for free, to track their health status and to provide 24/7 continued medical support amid the community quarantine. The expenses from this program come from the Medical/ Dental Fee and will be effective until July 30.

Additionally, an increase of Php 6,000 was added in the fees for the upcoming school year due to the learning modalities.

ENGINEERS IN-THE-MAKING. Learners from STEM D listen to a representative from the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers - UNC Student Chapter as she discusses some engineering concepts behind the exhibited prototypes. WORDS BY JIBRIL ALLEEN LORENTE AND PHOTO BY PICE UNC STUDENT CHAPTER

F R O M PA G E 3

Naga City cancels...

Naga.

“The burden talaga of controlling the pilgrims will be in the respective churches; sa Francia, Basilica, and here. But the respective pastors assured me they would create a certain way in order to control the number of people,” he explained.

City Mayor Nelson Legacion also discouraged the devotees from going to Naga, advising them to stay at their respective localities.

“An kaipuhan lang iyo na mapublicar an arog kaining kamawotan kan simbahan, asin kan lokal na gobyerno kan Naga, so that people will be discouraged to come,” he said.

Legacion then reminded the public that the COVID-19 cases in the country are still going up daily, and raised concerns over areas where the community quarantine classifications may be changed by September.

“Likewise, I am assuming that in so far as

other places, I’m concerned it is highly possible they may still be under general community quarantine or even modified community quarantine come September. Please take note of the number of cases, is growing day by day,” he continued.

He added that necessary documentation is still required to enter the City, and those without it will experience difficulties in trying to do so.

Legacion also said that the Joint Operations Center will be activated to prepare the City should pilgrims still decide to travel to Naga.

“We cannot discount the possibility of people still coming here, despite our advice. So, kumbaga pasiguro po kita. Of course, we are not expecting the same number of people coming to Naga City, and we will not be asking also for augmentation force from the Philippine National Police, even this situation. I think we do have enough resources to assist in the activities that will have to transpire, come September,” he explained, citing that the City will make use of its own resources to handle such situations.

Additionally, the nine-day novena will be done simultaneously by the parish priests in their respective parishes so that pilgrims will no longer travel to the City and avoid the spread of the virus.

“The purpose is, you don’t need to come to Naga. So parish priests are encouraged to inform their parishioners to conduct their own novenario. We want to decongest, ‘parish distancing’ you could say,” Archbishop Tirona added.

The Archdiocese will also be doing live streams, similar to what happened during the Holy Week celebration in Naga.

“Incidentally, our live streaming is not just appreciated locally, but also abroad, for its clarity, its presentation. So, we will employ the live streaming, and that is handled by our very capable head, Fr. Louie, who is in charge of that,” the Archbishop explained.

He also sought the help of the media in the dissemination of the live stream.

The City Government of Naga will strictly implement the safety protocols, and because of this, mass gatherings are not allowed, especially if public health is at risk.

The Archdiocese and the City Government believe that “everyone can celebrate the Feast of Divino Rostro and Ina in a safe, prayerful and blessed environment.”

N E W S / F E AT U R E S 09

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‘Sana all’ ‘Edi wow!’

F R O M PA G E 3

‘Everyone makes... added.

On the other hand, if the students have either stable or unstable internet connectivity at home, they could choose the Flexible Tech-Driven Modality, which will use a learning management system (LMS) for the educational delivery of sources.

“With the use of the LMS, classes may be delivered asynchronously wherein students and their professors will work on course activities at different times from their homes. Discussions, however, may be conducted with the professor and peers or classmates when convenient via the platform’s discussion boards or through email and private messages,” she explained.

Students will be on selfdirected learning as guided by the course guide uploaded on the platform. It provides them the flexibility of listening to lectures, viewing videos, engaging in readings, and class works when it fits their schedule. Students may contact their professors for consultation purposes through communication channels of the professors in the course guide.

“At certain times, synchronous course delivery may be the mode of learning wherein the students will log in to their class at a set time and work through lessons with their classmates, groupmates, and professors,” she added.

However, students with internet connectivity, but is facing issues, like network instability or personal circumstances like limited access for equipment, such as laptops, WiFi, internet connection, and load, can choose Modular Modality.

Alongside the “inclusive education delivery,” the UNC RED 3.0 is also premised on the following parameters: flexible learning to suit the home conditions of the students and the resources available to the faculty, which can be easily converted to blended learning once the IATF, CHED, and DepEd allow face-toface classes, giving an option for students and parents to continue learning from home to reduce the risk of exposure to the virus while transportation cost, and board and lodging cost; and outcome-based education delivery, considering the learning pace of the students.

Part of the implementation of the UNC RED Ways 3.0 solutions is an orientation of the parents on the learning designs so they will be in a better position to understand how the lessons will be conducted through the said approaches.

“The role of parents and guardians as partners in building the competencies and values of children is very essential especially for those in preschool, elementary, and secondary levels,” Dr. Lauraya stressed.

She also said that the UNC administration, faculty, and staff will continue to fulfill the mission of nurturing students towards a “future-ready purposeful” life despite the current pandemic.

“With the UNC’s RED 3.0 Flexible Learning Solutions, students shall be able to adapt to new situations and to build in themselves the attitude of resiliency, agility, and grit in the pursuit of achieving their dreams and to live their lives’ purpose,” the University President declared.

Classes at the Higher and Basic Education levels shall start on August 17 and 24, respectively.

“Classes will begin on these dates through flexible learning solutions and there will be no face-to-face classes until declared safe by our local and national government agencies,” Dr. Lauraya said.

and other terms GenZ is inappopriately using MA. CIELA BELARDO Have you checked my story today? Oh, wait! Have you watched the latest dance challenge? What about the latest showbiz news? Girl! It’s undeniably a must-read. Well, our generation, Gen Z to be exact, born between 1996 and 2010, is the generation who is extremely active in many social media platforms; to be connected, to be informed, and to be known. Generation Z is definitely the go-to pips for your queries when it comes to what’s in and what’s out.

Indeed, such a generation exhibits a great leap to convenient living. In this leap slang is invented more than ever before, coining more creative, and mind you, effective forms of expression. However, some of these coined terms, if analyzed carefully, may actually seem as problematic and touchy topics hence should be cancelled from the Filipino pop culture. Here are some of the terms that Generation Z is fond of using and what is completely wrong about them:

“Sabi ko na, Barbie!”

“Edi wow!”

This phrase took the Philippine social media platforms by storm when a video of two (2) little boys, receiving a Barbie doll from their mother, was uploaded on Facebook. They were so happy with the present that they giggled and exclaimed, “Sabi ko na, Barbie!” This is all fun and merry until people, especially men made use of this to make fun of those individuals who we all know are part of the LGBTQ++ community, or even when they just observed you moving softly that might not be as manly as they think you should be.

Used sarcastically to mean, “so what, no one cares,” when a speaker can’t think of any more arguments during a conversation, “Edi wow!” is a childish way of refusing to lose an argument and acknowledge the opposing party’s point, even though the point raised is right.

Since Generation Z is known for cultivating awareness towards issues that the world is facing, this statement has been constantly used for smartshaming. These individuals use it when they find it insulting when someone shares a strong opinion towards issues that may be too much for their cup of tea, or when someone corrects their existing information. People find it humiliating, that is why blurting “Edi wow!” has become their way of saving face, thus, humiliation rains on the person who simply just wants to express themselves freely.

“Sis, it should be you’re with apostrophe and e after r, not the other way around” “Edi wow!”

“Sana All!” I bet that everyone, at least once, uttered the phrase “Sana all!” when we see something admirable, and deep inside, we also want to experience it firsthand. This phrase is not entirely bad nor offensive, but it is indeed internally destructive when comparison comes in.

“Shocks! Sana all may new phone!”

“Sana all may jowa!”

“Sana all!”

There is nothing wrong with celebrating one’s achievement or good fate. So, instead of saying “Sana all!” all the time, start practicing gratitude by saying, “Thank you for what is given to me!” or “I always hope for the best for everyone!” Surely it will create a different yet more meaningful effect on everyone’s life.

“Ha? Hakdog!”

According to Reddit, “Ha? Hakdog!” is usually said in a sarcastic way, especially fired at someone who does not understand or hear what you have said for the first time.

“Ha? What? You were saying?”

“Ha? Hakdog!”

This may sound funny at first, but upon closer look, it is pure nonsense. It brings annoyance to the people who will receive this kind of nonsensical retort. Thus, this term only gives someone a headache. Nice talk, right?

“SML” and “SKL” According to Urban Dictionary, “SML” is described as a sarcastic way of saying “so?” after someone shared something with you especially if you don’t care or can’t relate to it.

“OMG, sis! My crush finally replied!”

“SML?” Whereas, “SKL” is described as a Filipino phrase used to excuse someone in inserting irrelevant topics in a conversation. Also, it is often used to avoid others telling them “SMSL”.

“OMG! Sis, my crush finally replied! SKL.” This form of expression normalized insensitivity and vulgarity in Filipino dialogue.

For instance, in this present year, mental health advocates are everywhere. Yet, we kill our peer’s excitement and trust by just using this phrase. That is why young adults all over the country use “SKL” in times that they can’t really help themselves from sharing, to avoid being badmouthed with “SKL”.

“Daks” and “Juts” Based on tagaloglang.com, “daks” is a gay lingo spoken in the Philippines, wherein it means ”big”. Using this term, you are trying to refer to the big size of someone’s penis. “Juts”, on the other hand, comes from the word “jutay”, which means small penis.

These terms have become widely used adjectives. Such terms may sound full of excitement that is completely harmless, but in reality, they may bring discomfort to the Adams of our community.

This is also far more to be considered as a compliment. Instead, society must be fully aware that these statements are subjected to sexual harassment. When someone calls out a woman for her big butt or huge breasts, everyone is enraged of the concept of objectifying women. This situation screams double standards in the Filipino community. Men should also have the same cry for equality and comfortableness in society in terms of this issue.

These are just some of the words that our generation is so fond of, and the list is just getting longer. At this very moment, new words are now taking the Filipino youth by storm. Weather forecaster ka, ghourl? And who knows? Of course, no one will know. But we must all be aware that our words are so powerful that they go deep within the heart. It may feed someone’s soul to goodness. “Yasss! you go girl!” but it can also cause havoc to the kingdom that we all try to create.

SML?

Legacion suspends classes, imposes curfew due to COVID-19 threat JIBRIL ALLEEN LORENTE Starting March 16, classes across all levels in Naga City are now suspended until further notice. Additionally, a curfew from 9 PM to 5 AM will be imposed by March 15, This is according to a memorandum issued by City Mayor Nelson Legacion.

The said memorandum aimes to support the response of the national government to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, as well as to protect the City from its threat.

“During the period of suspension, all students and educators are enjoined to stay at home,” Legacion emphasized.

Meanwhile, all ages and individuals are covered by the general curfew, except the following persons: those who need emergency needs or those responding to one, law enforcement, incident management, and medical care.

Companies were also encouraged to adjust working hours to conform to the curfew.

It also aimed to discourage and cancel the conduct of large gatherings, or events with 50 or more participants, such as community and school events, as well as recreational activities. However, they can be postponed and moved to a later date approved by the Mayor. Meanwhile, events with a lower number of participants can still be held, but are required to consider the risk upon its conduct.

“All previously approved and incoming requests to the city government for use of its facilities, plazas, sound system and transportation are canceled and/or disapproved,” he declared.

According to the memorandum, all persons who came from places with confirmed cases of COVID-19 that entered the city from March 7 onwards are required to undergo a 14-day selfquarantine from the day of arrival. Such a procedure is also imposed on that staying in accommodation establishments such as hotels.

The memorandum emphasized that failure to comply with the protocols is equivalent to non-cooperation and is punishable by fine or by imprisonment.

“The public must expect proactive measures from the city from today,” Legacion stressed.

F R O M PA G E 2

Bicol still... ang panghuli (3) ang ibigay ang lupa na para sa mga magsasaka; ang reporma sa mga niyog para makaahon sa buhay na mahirap ang mga magsasaka. ‘Kailangang paunlarin ang agrikultura bago tumungo sa mga convergent o maliliit na mining’,” he continued.

DA sends aid to farmers Meanwhile, the DA requested for a P31-billion supplemental fund for the expeditious implementation of the Ahon Lahat, Pagkain Sapat Kontra sa COVID-19 (ALPAS COVID-19). This is in line with the mandate of the DA to “ensure a food-secure Philippines much more in time of the health emergency period” and also to roll out immediate interventions for food production and availability, food accessibility and affordability, and food price stabilization of the country.

In Bicol, 90,000 small farmers will get P5,000 cash aid. This cash assistance program is called Financial Subsidy for Rice Farmers (FSRF).

DA-Bicol Spokesperson Emily Bordado said that the region would be spending P450 Million to help an initial 89,882 farmers cultivating rice on not more than one hectare of land.

“Agriculture Secretary William Dar in his directive said ‘our farmers will receive it as a direct cash transfer that they can use to buy farm inputs, food for their families or anything they need’,” Bordado said.

Starting July 1, the entire Bicol region will remain under the MGCQ, as per the recommendation of the IATF.

10 E D I T O R I A L

The PANTOGRAPH NOVEMBER 2019 - JUNE 2020

EDITORIAL

Double Tragedy

Cutting Jib’s Jib

The 2020 double tragedy in the Pearl of the Orient Ship, a semi and a fully orchestrated one, reveals the gaping cracks in the ship’s governance. The former occurred last January when the captain declined the proposal to redirect the ship’s direction colliding with a solid iceberg, like refusing to issue an urgent travel ban in the country, thus letting the walking COVID-19 in. The latter is an endless tragedy as a result of the wrong prioritization of the captain, who chooses to silent the passengers’ dissent, shut down the ship’s main network, and help its neighboring red-yellow ship, rather than using humanitarian means to save its own passenger from the sinking ship.

It was last March 23 when President Rodrigo Duterte signed the Republic Act No. 11469, also known as the “Bayanihan to Heal as One” Act, granting him the supplementary authority to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. This law should have been enough to offer him the power to set systematic methods to flatten the curve and a way to strike transparency through the mandatory weekly report.

However, it is not being fully maximized due to the numerous instances of either late or rescheduled weekly reports. Briefly, even if this law exists, unlike its neighboring ships, such as Singapore, Taiwan, Vietnam, and Hong Kong, the Philippines is noticeably late in flattening the curve. The country draws attention from the international community, not due to its positive response to the pandemic, but because of the opposite.

“An international rights group, Human Rights Watch, has chided the current administration for allowing the shutdown of media network ABS-CBN,” an excerpt from a news article published by the Inquirer.

Media is the backbone of democracy.

Once it has been stepped onto, so is democracy. The government justified that the closure is due to the anomalies in licensing renewals, but critics believe that the administration is just using the health crisis to crack down dissent. In times where collaborative effort and transparency are needed, the administration chooses to silence the dissenters instead, not just by the ABS-CBN shutdown, but also through Anti-Terror Bill which carries a vague definition of “terrorism”, providing law enforcers with broad powers to determine what constitutes a “terrorist”. With the multitude of warrantless arrests, may it the Cebu 7, Pride 20, Piston 6, it’s highly likely that the activists will be labeled as terrorists. In times where extensive assistance in the medical world should be bequeathed, the country chooses to have a highly militarized one, like Sri Lanka, El Salvador, South Africa, and China.

It’s not just a highly militarized response, it’s also a leaning one. The kind of treatment you’ll receive is relative to where you stand. National Capital Region Police Office chief Debold Sinas had a birthday bash amidst the lockdown. OWWA Deputy

Pantograph

The

EDITORIAL BOARD AND STAFF PUBL ICATI O N YEAR 2019- 2020

Administrator Mocha Uson has never been arrested for false information. Senator Koko Pimentel wasn’t immediately arrested when he went to the Makati Medical Center even if he endangered the medical personnel in the said hospital, contrary to what normally happens on the streets. This is a microcosm of the government’s “double standard” on how penalties are being imposed. Even if Uson and Pimentel were called into the probe, this is just an act to trick the public on the non-existence of the double standard. “To the ordinary Filipino, this regime bares its fascist and militarist fangs to the fullest, and this so-called ‘malasakit’ is reserved for the president’s allies,” Karapatan Secretary General Cristina Palabay said.

For the past three (3) months, the enemy of the administration was not the virus itself but its very citizens, most especially the marginalized sector. Due to the political diversionary tactics released, Filipinos got tricked to believe that the enemy is the poor.

The poor acts due to deterministic circumstances, unlike the rich and powerful, who have a wide range of opportunities. At the end, when the ship sinks, the rich and powerful— passengers who have access to boats and life rafts—have the means to save themselves, while the poor will slowly succumb to their deaths.

We need to continue demanding for a more systematic and humanitarian approach since we are in the middle of a health crisis, not a domestic insurgence. The tragedy will never end if people continue to let the government trick them to believe that the health crisis is still under control under their administration. We have to understand that the continuous wrong prioritization and diversionary tactics of the administration will be the death of the ship.

The endless 2020 double tragedy will never be put into a halt if people continue to let diversionary tactics, released by the administration, turn their blind eye on the real enemy, the health crisis.

JIBRIL ALLEEN LORENTE jibrilalleen.lorente@unc.edu.ph

ABS-CBN Shutdown Saga: The Story So Far Static, no reception, no signal - nothing. This is what was left of the largest broadcasting network in the country since May 5. After years of soaring through the airwaves, ABS-CBN went off the air after its franchise expired last May 4 amid several attempts of renewal over the past number of years. But how did this happen?

In order to fully grasp the situation, one must know the details of the said franchise or license. A media license allows an institution to establish its corporate existence and operate in the country, which lasts for 25 years and is subject to renewal. To get that, one must register with the Securities and Exchange Commission, then have the primary franchise from the Congress and, finally, a secondary one from the National Telecommunication Commission via a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity.

The reason behind licensing is that the broadcast frequencies are rare resources, and if there is no limit to the number of broadcasters, they would have little use since the public could not hear them clearly since they would be interfering with each other. Thus, it is important for the government to control and manage those frequencies.

With that, let’s move to the main problem: the issue regarding the shutdown of ABS-CBN due to its expiring franchise. Since the company has been reaching the end of its current license, Congress has proposed bills to renew it since 2014.

However, Solicitor General Jose Calida filed a quo warranto petition aiming to prevent that from happening. According to him, ABS-CBN committed the following violations: biased news reporting, which may include the issue back in the 2016 Presidential Elections, where despite paying the required amount, some advertisements of the then candidate President Rodrigo Duterte were not aired, but the advertisements paid by former Senator Antonio Trillanes, IV criticizing him were aired; laborrelated issues, given the several labor cases charged against the network; operating pay-per-view channels using public frequencies without approval from the NTC; foreign investments in the company; and the citizenship of Chairman Emeritus Gabby Lopez III. ABS-CBN defended themselves, saying that no violations were made and that all of the services they are currently offering underwent all necessary government approvals, including allowing foreign entities to invest to raise funds, and Lopez stressed that he is a Filipino citizen.

Now, does the shutdown affect the press freedom in the country in any way? Yes, since ABS-CBN

Editor-in-Chief Irish Sierda

News Editor Ivy Noga

Circulation Manager Katrine Faye Berunio

Associate Editor Coleen Therese Agsao

Features Editor Justin Carl Cabaltera

Photojournalists Judy De Jesus, Chloe Anne Cartujano

Managing Eitor Nica Deannise Berlon

Sports Editor Luc Linus Blanca

Layout Artists Julieto Joshua Olithao, Catherine Plazo

Chief Layout Artist Maria Carmela Calisura

Cartoonists Zerah Dy-Cok, Rhynaphine Jabonillo, Harriz Philip Ubalde

Chief Photojournalist Keren-Happuch Viñas

has been known to give critical coverage of the administration, most especially its war on drugs.

Thus, this move can be seen as an attempt to muzzle those that are negative to them. Despite former Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo denying allegations that the President has something to do with the case, the fact that President Duterte vowed to see ABS-CBN close its doors is something not to overlook, as well as his negative remarks towards the press, in general. The government is using its power to block the franchise renewal of the network, and it is even attempting to overtake the ability of Congress to legislate franchises with its steps.

The issue can also affect the dissemination of vital information to the people. Although there are other networks that can inform the public, removing one would be limiting the people’s access to all of the necessary information. And seeing that it is one of the biggest broadcasters, if not the biggest, the loss of ABS-CBN would leave a significant impact on the availability of a vital source, especially to those who can literally only access their channels.

Furthermore, it would also affect at least 11,000 employees working there. At first glance, 11,000 may not be noticeable in our population of over 100 million, but that figure does not include the families that rely on them. Counting them in, that number would drastically increase.

However, there is also another question that must be answered as well: if the Congress has been moving for the franchise renewal of the company since 2014, then why are they taking so long to accomplish it?

As of writing, hearings for their franchise is still ongoing. Will the colors and sounds of ABS-CBN return to the screens and radios?

Perhaps under a new owner/ management? Or will their channels vanish forever? Only time will tell, as the story of the ABS-CBN shutdown continues to unfold.

Staff Writers

Krizyl Mae Caguicla, Mitzi Jane Rebancos, Ma. Christine Moreno,Jibril Alleen Lorente, Katrina Habana, Maxine Yna Campana, Charles Kryxian Lara, Khiana Sto. Domingo, Jeskha Trisha Cruzat, Ma. Ciela Belardo, Marl Arrion Cacho, Christine Angela De Vera, Marinela Sabordo, Noel Adante, Jr., Hazel Valdeavilla, Cyra Castilla

Technical Advisers Charlene Kris Borbe Juvin Durante

O P I N I O N 11

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Through Argus’ Eyes

Filling the Gaps It has been going smooth the past month, light once again seen in the darkness. Yet the evanescent hope of Nagueños abruptly went down the drain when after a month-long case-free streak, the Local Government of Naga (LGU-Naga) recorded new COVID-19 cases because of the national government’s Balik Probinsya Program (BPP). Now, the said LGU is facing another wave of resurgence to the pandemic and yet another of the many gaps the national government left because of its incompetency. Surprisingly, Naga is effectively patching them up.

Naga’s foundation for its pandemic response is the upper government’s lack of coherent injunctions and medical and humanitarian services; that because it’s able to spot the holes, solutions are made as fast as possible.

An instance, months after the lockdown was imposed, the frontliners’ mode of transportation still has been a problem in the Metro. Naga, however, as early as a week after the lockdown, immediately laid down a program called Lend-A-Bike to address the matter. In addition, frontliners who are non-Naga residents were given free accommodation and transportation by partnering with hotels for rooms and universities for buses.

It has long acknowledged that in a situation where an almost unending quarantine and physical distancing is made

NICA DEANNISE BERLON nicadeannise.berlon@unc.edu.ph

into effect, a government’s misstep can cost thousands of lives and its feigning competency can make everything worse; the reason why, just like how it handled cases before, contact tracing was done and the lockdown was imposed to the place where the recent cases were recorded, quickly. Residents were tested using a swab or rapid antibody testing and patients were quarantined.

However, the battle for the virus won’t be over if residents continue to be adamant and dismissive of following quarantine protocols. The resurgence happened not only because of BPP, but also because of the individuals who were beneficiaries of it but defied home quarantine. Naga is doing all the needed steps immediately to ensure the containment of the disease, considering that the Philippines is leading the virus’ rise in the entire Western Pacific. In return, individuals ought to obey protocols.

Over and above, it’s safe to say that the statistics came to be because the response of the national government has been chaotic and inept; and with its incomplete directives regarding quarantine, problems with work and food providence arose, leaving LGUs once again to patch them up. Rice assistance distribution was made by LGU-Naga to give rice to every individual inside the town with milk and vitamins for children. Market-on-wheels has been constantly run. Workers most

affected by the lockdown, like drivers, were given enough assistance – financial and/or food.

Though, despite its perpetual updates on cases and fund breakdowns, continuous antibody testing, inspections, stricter border control, and protocols for authorized inbound individuals, the containment won’t be more effective if the constant qualification checking of individuals who leave their houses is loosened up. During the monthlong case-free streak, numerous individuals have been going in and out of their houses for leisure or even if unqualified to do so.

Authorities ought to be more imposing on this matter, case-free or not, not only for the containment of the virus but also to strengthen people’s discipline regarding the situation; acting as deterrence to the cause why the recent resurgence happened.

Overall, the actions of LGUNaga have gained favorable responses for it showed effectiveness in battling the virus and commitment to help and serve its people; potently closing the widening gap between public servants and the people.

In a pandemic where people are forced to create gaps between each other, it is only right for the government not to create a further schism. For a government which leaves too many gaps in plans and not ever minding to close them is incompetent, and a government which prioritizes silencing the people than listening to their hardships and not closing the widening gap between public servants and those who are to be served is pure evil and undeserving of the position they hold. It’s certain, though, that with its pandemic response, LGU-Naga proved itself to be neither of the two.

Lend Credence MA. CHRISTINE MORENO machristine.moreno@unc.edu.ph

There was no safety: monsters lurked everywhere. You won’t know it, but your haven could be the place of your torture; your protector could be your tormentor. Light is a façade and it doesn’t just happen in a dark alley. It happens behind closed doors: at homes, schools, prisons, and even on a running train in a broad daylight. They can be a family, a friend, an acquaintance, or a stranger. Newsflash! We’ve come to the point where sexual predators are no longer afraid and are even confident because of society’s backup apology.

Rape culture has a layer of issues, including the way it is portrayed in media and fiction; how it is treated by the police, and in many institutions, such as prison, military, schools, etc.: a sociocultural disease that normalizes, excuses, favors, and trivializes acts of sexual violence.

Victims are blamed, silenced, scrutinized to the extent of their clothes and their personalities, while rapists run free. This is a culture of shame and saving face—a result of a long-running history of denial that sexual violence happens to every other girl; that boys will be boys, men have needs, and rapists are only sexually frustrated men. No. This is a crime about power and control; a reflection of the many unprogressive ideas deep-rooted to us from ancient times when men are dominant and women are an object of satisfaction.

Even after all these years, the war to crush detrimental ideologies is far from over. How do we really go from here, to the world where we are free and comfortable to get out without fear of getting harassed if we’re always going to make the perpetrators think that what they’re doing is already a part of life that we should accept?

We embrace sexual violence as a norm so bad that when

Monsters Aren’t Born someone gets raped, we ask the victims first why she’s not being careful, to begin with.

The burden in avoiding sexual assault placed on women is so emphasized, more than the need to tell men to f*ck off and to stop them from shoving their dicks, or any part of their body to where it doesn’t belong. That line of thinking is very, very dangerous because of the shifting of blame and accountability of a crime that is not only unfair but is also targeted towards the innocents; giving more chances and tolerance to the sexual predators, rather than preventing them.

According to the statistics from PNP and DSWD, only two (2) out of five (5) rape cases were reported in 2017. Imagine how many sexual offenders are on loose because of the sociocultural attitudes that tolerate them along with the pressure we put to the victims, hushing, and discouraging them to speak out.

Instead of putting the blame on women, why not just teach men not to rape. That is human decency, and a common sense.

Rape and any other sexual violence must be so discouraging and demoralizing—where the hate and blame are solely pointed on the offender, that potential sexual offenders would be afraid to act it out. We also need to really emphasize the value of consent, especially to young men, and to stop associating masculinity and sexuality to power and obligations.

By holding and fighting for the thought that monsters aren’t born, they are made, we let ourselves believe that there is still hope. Call them out, educate, and demand accountability. Do not let them reign and sit comfortably to a cushion, while millions curled up reliving the fear and nightmare they do not ask for.

UNCeans Speak Hindi tayo pwedeng manahimik sapagkat karapatan natin ang malayang pagpapahayag.

Nakakatakot. Nakakabahala.

Nakakapanghina. Pero kailangan natin magsalita dahil KUNG HINDI TAYO, SINO? KUNG HINDI NGAYON, KELAN PA? #JUNKTERRORBILLNOW Liezl Iñigo

GAS 12 Learner

As a woman, every single day there is a chance I might not make it home, no matter how many precautions I take. Then we have people like Tulfo who justifies the actions of rapists, saying it’s all the woman’s fault. No. We have to hold men accountable for their actions. #HijaAko DARA CARTUJANO

GAS 12 Learner

To my students, you are not too young to care and to understand whatever is happening around us.

Use your vigor to speak up against the irregularities that you perceive to be bad. This is the perfect time to apply the theories you learned from school in real life. You got my high hopes!

JUVIN DURANTE

Learning Facilitator

Political views are valid standards on choosing who to keep in your life and who to cut off. It mirrors your principles, how you see human beings and how you think they deserve to be treated.

Hindi eto echos lang. Wala kang karapatang hingin sa akin na “respetuhin” ang “opinyon” mo na dapat lang akong pagbabarilin dahil ayokong maging tuta ng gobyerno.

RUBY JANE BANDOLA

BS Accountancy Student

12 O P I N I O N We, Filipinos, are known to trust those in power, especially during times of crisis. Since they were elected in hopes of leading the country to a better tomorrow, they are also the ones responsible for the fate of its people at times of crisis. Now, as the COVID-19 pandemic ravages the globe, hunger, death, and pestilence hit the Philippines causing massive suffering to the Filipinos.

Today, the question is, “Are the actions of the Philippine government enough to sustain the needs and protect every Filipino in this pandemic?” Let’s take a look at the significant steps the current administration made, in hopes of addressing the health crisis.

As early as February 2, a temporary ban on the entry of all foreign nationals and exit ban on Filipinos, for traveling to China, were imposed, aiming to prevent the virus from making it into Philippine soil.

Now, is the travel ban a right move? Yes, however, it arrived too late. Had the government ordered it sooner, we might not have the surmounting number of cases and deaths today.

Moreover, even though they keep assuring the public that they are on top of the situation and that the country’s health system was well prepared for the pandemic, they belittled the gravity of the situation. And the truth was far from what they said - we were caught by surprise.

Then, from March 16 onwards, community quarantine levels are placed (ECQ, MECQ, GCQ, MGCQ) in all the cities and provinces of the country.

Let’s also take a look at the actions of the Department of

Cursed Reality HAZEL VALDEAVILLA hazel.valdeavilla@unc.edu.ph

The Cover

Inspired by the artwork of Filipina artist Oh Lenic (@ohlenic), depicted in the cover are the various protests held during the month of June, particularly the “Mañanita” protest last June 12, where people across all walks of life, have gathered, hoping that their message would be sent and heard. As the they raise their placards and phones in the air with their burning passion and aspirations to call for social justice, as figuratively represented by the fire, they collectively expressed their dissent on how the government insisted to install an antiterrorism law in the midst of the pandemic.

At the center is someone who represents the UNCeans who stand against such bill, be it on the ground or online. The placard that he is holding is a reference to a UNC Senior High School learner who was there, as featured on our main story “ORAGONS UNITE: Bicolanos rally vs. Anti-Terrorism Bill amid pandemic risks”.

Graphics by: Keren-Happuch Viñas Words by: Jibril Alleen Lorente

Health - the main agency to take the role of guiding the country during this pandemic. However, a few weeks in and the Senate majority called for Health Secretary Francisco Duque III to resign after his supposed “failure of leadership.”

The issue was, the lack of planning and inadequate contact tracing led to the escalation of confirmed and suspected COVID-19 cases, which led to hospitals reaching full capacity.

And true to their accusations, the DOH indeed appears to have come short. However, let’s give the DOH some credit after they also took actions, such as turning the Athletes Village in New Clark City into a quarantine facility for repatriates.

On March 24, the Republic Act No. 11469 also known as the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act was approved, granting the President additional authority but for a limited time only to carry out his powers in dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic.

The act expired last June 24.

Although deemed to be dangerous at first, the Act is actually harmless and in fact beneficial, because Congress nullified the ‘unconstitutional’ controversial provisions around the President’s emergency powers. This law even mandated to give cash assistance or emergency subsidy not just for the frontliners but also for Filipinos in need.

The Act also allows them to handle emergency budgets to be augmented, especially now that Philippines debt nears to P9 Trillion as it continues to fund the government’s measures on its support to COVID-19 response. However, where do these funds go?

Now, let’s answer the question, “Are these actions already enough? Or more needs to be done?”

Unsaid Thoughts MARINELA SABORDO marinela.sabordo@unc.edu.ph

The Underlying Realities

to do in one room. Unlike at home, a learners’ life can have so many interruptions while in a class like they have to do something else (responsibilities) and such, especially those learners with chaotic surroundings including some problems among their family.

Aside from those, there is this situation that is most likely familiar to us: having an unstable internet connection. With this, an effort is a must. You should go outside your house, raise your hand while holding your phone, and even climb up a tree just to cope in class. You should find a spot where the internet connection is strong, or else, you’ll end up learning just a little, or worse, nothing.

Disadvantages may overpower the benefits of this method of teaching for those who are having a hard time. Furthermore, this kind of method may fail in terms of its effectiveness to deliver learnings particularly some courses that are far less compatible with online interaction than others which will inevitably lead to hampered grades or a weaker educational experience.

Hence, instead of giving yourself a headache, there are still alternative modes of teaching apart from having an online class itself, which are distance learning, homeschooling, modular, and others which can be the best choice that can cater the needs of the learners and still have a privilege to continue their learning despite the physical distance.

But still, students can go so far with their access to technology than just facing a book that may not give you any response if you don’t understand a thing, which is more likely to be unfair. It’s a lot different if you’re in an online class, learning by facing the screen together with your teacher and classmates because you can easily ask and know the answer right away. Yes, there may be a guide from your parents but it can be different if it’s a real teacher.

So before insisting on an education facing a screen, we should first face the real screen, the reality: not all learners can make it amid the pandemic that is happening right now. With this, learners can be ensured that their education is not compromised at times like these.

Face the Real Screen “No face-to-face classes will be allowed earlier than August 24, 2020, and from then on, face-to-face classes may be conducted only in areas allowed to open physically,” Education Secretary Leonor Briones said.

Briones is determined to really pursue what her plan is, regarding the system of education for this school year despite COVID-19’s threat.

Considering the danger that the pandemic may bring, DepEd stated that class opening in August doesn’t necessarily mean to report to school. Instead, she proposed to have various learning delivery options, placing an emphasis on alternative technologies so the students can still continue learning even at home.

Well, the idea was indeed conducive for students, especially the graduating ones in terms of helping them continue the school year and eventually finish it as soon as possible than wasting a year, roughly waiting for a ‘COVIDFree’ annunciation. But then, we must also concede to the fact that not everyone has the capability of doing so when it comes to online classes which are used as blended learning techniques.

We can say that the presence of technology and digital classrooms are manifestations of a modern education system, which is a good story of innovation, but accessing those is another kind of issue. Some always say, “Education is available anytime, anywhere,” but for an online class? Money, gadgets, cellular loads, and such to be present are not always there to support a learner specifically if they belong to a society where financial problems are highly at risk.

In addition, learning at school and learning virtually at home is entirely different in means of its atmosphere and environment given that in school, you can easily focus on what you are doing because all of you have the same thing

The PANTOGRAPH NOVEMBER 2019 - JUNE 2020

Have you ever tried to open a book or an online article and once you finish reading that text is like you will end up not understanding everything that you read? Be honest! But whether it’s a yes or no, I can’t even hear you by the way, just hold your thought.

Dancing Walls Happy Banana Circle.

With this sentence, I am sure that you will be able to read this and you will surely understand the meaning of the words in the sentence independently. Dancing is moving your body in accordance to a rhythm and style of music that is being played. Walls are made of stones, bricks and etc. that surround an area or structure,... so on and so forth. But if you look in the sentence as a whole, does it make sense? Can you understand it? This sentence demonstrates the difference between being able to read words and comprehending text. Reading Comprehension is simply defined as the ability to understand what you are reading.

Most of the time, reading comprehension is being taken for granted because reading words and comprehension always occur simultaneously when you are reading text. This may sound a piece of cake but reading comprehension is complex and multifaceted, because a learner can not develop the ability to comprehend text quickly and independently especially texts with the use of the english language for the Filipinos.

Speaking of the Filipinos, the Philippines ranked last among 79 countries in a global survey of reading comprehension of the Programme for International Student Assessment which participated by over 600,000 students around age of 15 from 79 different countries and 7, 233 of which are from

the Philippines. One of the factors that leads this result is the weak use of the English language at home which is the language used in the said test.

Using english language as a medium of communication is difficult and because you’re not used to it, you’re prone in committing errors in your grammar or pronunciation that can make you uncomfortable speaking in english. In this time, especially with the alarming result that I mentioned earlier, there’s no more room for recognizing mistakes to bash people instead, recognize his/her attempt to speak in English.

As I said in my second paragraph, reading comprehension is complex and multifaceted but if there’s a collaboration, whether a student to a teacher, a student to a student, or even a student to a parent, no one will be left behind.

Understanding what you’re reading is very important especially because reading text is where you get information of other subjects and courses so, if you’re not good with this you will probably fail in your other subjects and also not understanding what you’re reading is like reading hieroglyphics where you can just see the symbols but you don’t know what’s the whole illustration conveys. Let’s help everybody push ourselves upwards to where we plot in the ranking above especially for the youngsters because it will not just benefit them, you, but also how our country will look like and run in the near future.

Consciously Unconscious

F R O M PA G E 1 6

Beyond the...

globe in just one click. It might be called effortless, but in Facilitated Learning, it is called innovation.

Student resources

Health and social effects

Research papers are everywhere. With the help of Facilitated Learning, students have access to a wider range of resources through the internet.

The information they need can be accessed in just a second.

Spend less time on the tedious search process like walking to the nearest library and hour-long looking for specific information. Their resources would not be limited to what’s available locally. And also, they can even do interviews, gather information, conduct a survey with experts living across the

Innovative teaching methods are really way better than the standardized teaching method. But because of the advanced collaboration tools, it allows the student to work without a face to face discussion where it creates a barrier between them to meet and work face-to-face. And in Facilitated Learning, it needs to use technologies almost all the time where it increases the hours spent in front of the computer screen which is not healthy for our eyes.

Having a Facilitated

Learning experience has a huge change in a student’s life as well as to the teacher/learning facilitator’s day-to-day basis. It is a great change for the better. In UNC, particularly in Senior High School Department were into Facilitated Learning than what we’ve grown to know or the traditional classroom experience because it diversifies the learning experience of the learners and the learners become more dynamic and fast-paced, that equipped students with timely skills, up-to-the-minute ideas for the students be globally competitive and futureready.

/uncpantograph

In movies or series, we often see best friend roles. The main character will have her best friend and then she will find out that her best friend is betraying her in some way then they will go against each other. Friendship over. The end. This kind of story contradicts the friendship of some who pushes each other to the top, just like the University of Nueva Caceres Senior High School Class of 2018 Valedictorian Nica Deanisse Berlon and Salutatorian Coleen Therese Agsao.

Nica and Coleen started their five-year friendship when they were in their first year of Junior High School at the same university.

According to Coleen, when they were in their first day of Grade 7, they used to exchange their notebooks with ‘3D building sketches’ in it as they both want to be a civil engineer someday.

They already got along that time, however, Nica said that, at first, she really didn’t expect to be friends with Coleen as she thought that latter was “matarayon” because of her “b*tchy” eyes.

Their hobby at that time was to sit on the grass together with their other friends talking about life and the like. With their intelligence, they both became the representatives of the University when it comes to academic contests.

With that, their friendship grew as they had more time to review together, study together, compete together, and win together.

When asked what’s the unforgettable quarrel that they had before, Nica revealed that they fought when they were in Grade 7 just because she didn’t wear the bracelet that Coleen gave her. So cute. Coleen shared that they didn’t have any intense fight against each other because they immediately fix their conflicts after a few hours, while Nica is so mature, she added.

Now, their hobby, aside from studying, of course, is to watch TV series, anime, and Korean dramas. They are also fond of reading books. Coleen shared that there’s a phase in their friendship when they go to Booksale every day just to find books to read. Lastly, their imperishable hobby is to talk with each other about life and politics.

Their interest and awareness in politics brought them to be part of the UNC Debate Circle and The PANTOGRAPH and MALAYA, the official student publications of the UNC Senior High School, with them being the former associate editor (Coleen) and managing editor (Nica).

Being both

F E AT U R E S 13 on the cream of the crop gives them the self-satisfaction not just for their achievement of their own, but also the achievement of one another as they support each other in everything that they do. Coleen uttered that they break the stereotype of a top 1 and a top 2 in a class who usually really treat each other as “competitors”. Instead, they pushed each other to the top. They’re always there for each other in academics, life, and even providing cellular loads and printing services.

When Nica was in her sixth grade, she had this best friend who betrayed and cyberbullied her just because she was chosen to be her best friend’s replacement as the majorette leader. Coleen doesn’t want this distressing moment of life to happen again to Nica, that’s why she makes sure that she will always be there for Nica at all cost, and so is Nica to Coleen.

Next school year, these two will go on different paths as Coleen will pursue Computer Science at the University of the Philippines- Los Baños while Nica will take Civil Engineering at the University of Nueva Caceres. Both said that they will always communicate with each other for life updates, and even love life updates as well. Coleen said that she will wait for Nica to be in UP too, so she can tour her around the campus as they both target to take their master’s degree in UP. Hoping that long-distance communication will not break their five-year friendship, and still counting. See, it is so great to have someone you can call ‘best friend’, whom you can share what’s happening in your life, whom will company you in your darkest times, and whom you can be with slaying on top without feeling any envy towards each other.

Indeed, their story is a certified #BeshieGoals.

A GUIDE ON HOW UNC RESPONDED TO THE CHALLENGES OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC KRIZYL MAE CAGUICLA “The rains have come, men, women, and children are restless, and summer’s about to be just a blurry memory.”

Had it not been for this darned pandemic, and consequent extended lockdown turned to enhanced community quarantine, I would have enjoyed getting together with my friends for summer. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID 19) pandemic, which is now a major public health problem worldwide, has really challenged not only me but everyone.

Due to the looming threat of the pandemic, the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) was made into an island-wide lockdown of Luzon. Many municipalities including Naga City implemented curfew and other restriction of movement. This time it’s no longer just class suspensions and prohibition of mass gatherings. All travel to and from Luzon has been suspended, and all establishments, except for those providing essential services such as food and health care, were ordered to be closed. All kinds of public transportation is shut down.

While it is primarily a health issue, it cannot be denied that it has multi-faceted effects. Thus, all sectors of the society—from government, commerce, and even education—have been affected by the pandemic, and the University of Nueva Caceres (UNC), Naga City got no exemption from this.

UNC Leaders did everything in their power to ease the effect of the Luzon-wide lockdown chronicled COVID-19 outbreaks. They stalled and exercised a remarkable move called the “RED Ways”, the immediate response of UNC in addressing the COVID-19 challenges.

UNC in Action As an emergency support for vulnerable groups and individuals marshalling resources amid COVID-19, UNC conducted a fund-raising project and was able to raise Php. 111,701.00 cash donation from its stakeholders to aid stranded UNCeans in Naga City. A total of 80 stranded students and employees of UNC received relief goods and load allowance from the fund-raising project.

The advocacy was also extended to lending the school van to ferry frontliners who reside outside the City. UNC transported the frontliners from and to the following institutions: Hotel Sogo, BISCAST, Hillary and Andrew Hotel, and Bambino Lodge.

Aside from causing enormous damage to the global economy, COVID-19 pandemic has also afflicted the educational system in the country. Thus, UNC has been triggered to end its 2nd semester for the SY 20192020 last May 7 through the Memorandum No.14, s. 2020 from the Office of the

University President.

Also, it was stipulated that all UNCeans in the Higher Education level shall enjoy free catch-up sessions after the community quarantine. Therefore, students will be given the chance to attend catch-up sessions for free during the two weeks of the first semester prior to the first day of classes of SY 2020-2021 to give them the chance to convert their “IP” grades into numerical grades.

Moreover, in the spirit of fairness, UNC intended to refund/discount the 20% of the Energy Fee, 20% of the Internet Fee, and 10% of the Library Fee among the enrolled Higher Education students in the second semester. Furthermore, they strategized to enroll all UNCeans to a free online consultation service.

All students and employees can consult any health-related concerns through KonsultaMD, one of the country’s top telemedicine providers. It also opened a 24/7 e-counseling to which UNCeans can freely reach out to the university’s guidance counselors by messaging them online.

UNC has also Distributed hundreds of washable face masks have been distributed, through the Institutionalized Community Extension Service, among the frontliners in Naga City.

The Fruit of the Labors The 80 stranded students and employees of UNC in Naga City who received relief goods and load allowance from the University have felt so much joy and comfort. The UNC stakeholders’ kindness eased their stress amid COVID-19. They felt the sense of family and felt closer to home. The Frontliners who were given free transportation by the university via school van felt so thankful. However, the memorandum regarding the payment of school fees, earned negative opinions from some students, but things got cleared out after a teleconference with the university president.

After all, UNC continuously gives constant wellspring of support for students and employees in this crisis. The health and well-being of them are their top consideration. As the University adapts now to the “new normal” to support students for the unforeseeable future, it is important to remember these changes are temporary. At some point, the coronavirus pandemic will be over and life will return to normal. However, these innovative responses of the University during this time will no doubt come out the other side with optimal solutions and student support systems that will serve them for decades to come.

14 F E AT U R E S

The PANTOGRAPH NOVEMBER 2019 - JUNE 2020

weaknesses of each group, like the sudden change of the schedule where the event supposedly happened in December 2019 that made a huge impact especially to the design of the booths, lack of money, and trial and errors in getting the right recipe but any of those didn’t hinder the students to achieve their goal, making their business successful.

"Without any accompaniment, this event wouldn’t be successful as each and every one of us is the key to put this event into [the] light." This shows that in any aspect, teamwork makes the dream work.

A wonderful yet, a very tiring experience but it was all worth it. This is what I saw in their sparkling eyes while wiping off their sweat as they provided their services to the students who were buying. I felt motivated and inspired that time, wondering what our trade fair in the next school year will look like.

All the struggles from the preparation up to doing the actual business paved away by their sweet smiles as the event finished on the third day. Especially to those who hailed as winners where their business stands out the most. Some of those are Eat Me who bagged 3 awards, the Neatness and Efficiency Award, Tidiest Staff Award, and the major award which is the Entrepreneur of the Year along with Food hub and AnneongSayo. Greataste Chakanan and Purokakanon also bagged the Best Booth award and the Most Innovative award, respectively. They truly deserve it but with or without awards, all of them are still the best because of their hard work and determination.

I was so full not only because of the food I ate in the event but also because of some realizations I had. This event serves not just a milestone, but a stepping stone for us, students, to our business life in the near future and for us to experience the real ground of business.

I knew that those Grade 12 students are also full even though they are the one who's providing food. Well, absolutely not because they are eating their own stocks.

They are full because of all the learnings and experiences they had along with their journey in the event as well as the making of plans regarding it. I can't wait to experience those things and offer some hard work to all, hoping that they'll be full too as well.

Bon Appetit!

A loud bang of silence enveloped the room for a second as we were found dumbstruck to what our learner's facilitator had announced.

"There will be a three-day event regarding the Grade 12 ABM learners' Trade Fair starting today, January 8-10, 2020 at the University of Nueva Caceres (UNC) covered /court. In addition, all of you, as ABM learners, should go and see it for yourselves to have some ideas because you will also conduct those things when you step up, becoming a Grade 12 learner."

The noise eventually filled the room as my classmates asked different questions because of curiosity.

I just shrugged my shoulders and went back to sleep, planning to just check it later.

Passing by the court, I saw Grade 12 learners preparing their own stalls and the food that they'll offer to the customers.

Eventually, after the long wait, the program started at exactly 8 am with the leading emcees, Keith Monasterial and John Joseph Baluyot who hyped up the whole crowd as each stall delivered their endorsement speeches.

It went well as the crowd became so cooperative, enjoying the said event. Those two are indeed effective emcees. I also heard Ms. May Roselle Orillosa Clemente, the Grade 12 Learning Supervisor delivering her opening remarks, highlighting the event's objectives and purposes.

"The event will showcase and cater innovative food and products but not just that, it is also the way in developing skills like planning and time management which will help them to achieve the three goals of the senior high school which is college readiness, employability, and life readiness."

I found out that Ms. Leslie Valencia, the LF of Grade 12 students in Research 2 is also behind the making of this trade, requiring the learners to have their trade fair as a milestone. I felt nervous because I will also face this part along my Grade 12 journey.

With this, I already set some plans in my mind like varieties of food that I can offer to others and ways to earn more. But then, this is not just the way I think it.

This event is more than what I thought.

Encountering some of the learners, I learned many things as they worked. Their source of strength is their group mates having one goal: the trade fair to be successful, to attain the expected level for their milestone and the most important thing is to enjoy it. There are different Photos: Keren-Happuch Viñas

What do you want?

As I took my feet off the edge of the floorboard, a distinct sentiment embraced my system, like a sudden whip of wind, letting myself feel how worst the situations are, different from what I perceived it to be. I made my way to the entrance and joined the group of people patiently lining up despite the blistering heat waves of the sun. After a series of counts, I found myself in a place of discomfort—that I am not satisfied with the world my eyes are letting me see. With a perplexed expression on my face, I hastily grabbed the basket near the counter and started looking for goods only to realize that I was too late. This place is supposed to give me my needs in exchange for a penny, this basket should be holding the stuff that is essential, but how come that it wasn’t? I stared at my hands with an empty shopping cart and saw its other side—its other purpose. And there, I knew what I should do.

With dedication and intelligence carved on their names, Keith Monasterial, Crystal Joyce Cruz, Jienny Lou Tengco, and Julia Mae Nero, Senior High school Students of the University of Nueva Caceres, find ways to give an easy and accessible online market for shoppers and to survive the threat of losing on the pandemic in terms of financial stability. Their roles as a student were not only limited in the four corners of their classroom. Their devotion to helping their families and other people led to a myriad of great opportunities. They wanted to show that not all goods are placed on a shopping cart and not all supermarkets are concrete and touchable.

When can we consider the worth of a business? Was it when it earned a lot of money ignoring the risks of the people? On the contrary—an online business—only a few can notice and choose to ignore laid choices on the way consumers make purchasing decisions.

“Peanut Butter, cakes, you name it and we’ll give it to you,” Keith once said, sharing varieties of his products that add up to the idea of how dedicated he is to online business.

“Everyone is doing their best to cope with the crisis that we are facing today. We all know that even without this pandemic, it is really hard to earn money.

But since we are fighting one enemy, the COVID-19, it doubled or even tripled the difficulty of gaining money. Which is why everyone is forced to become strategic and creative. A common example is maximizing popular social media platforms to sell products just for them to earn money and use it to pay for the house bills, food, save money for the tuition fees of their children, and any other expenses,” he said explaining his reason of risking online business despite the unsettling feeling of gaining trust using a mere electronic device.

It was never easy to sell online, criticizing people by just

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YOUNG UNCEAN ENTREPRENEURS THRIVING AMID THE PANDEMIC KHIANA STO. DOMINGO making them look at a photo that never says how fresh and how useful your products are.

Online Selling isn’t just about posting products that you like but providing other’s necessities as well. And it was never simple for them to choose what to sell.

“The road to online selling of your products or items isn't easy, struggles will always be on your way. When I started thinking about online selling, I asked myself, ‘What are the possible products that I can sell?’ Since a lot of people are selling their products online, I looked for an item that I rarely see on an online seller and also the products that I am using. On my first day, I already doubted myself because no one is inquiring or buying the products that I have, but as days went by, my sales were starting to increase already,” Jienny Lou stated rationalizing her thoughts at first to online business. Nevertheless, she managed to look for products that are way closer to her heart’s content. She sells eyewear, beauty products, specifically rejuvenating sets, cosmetics such as lip tints, lipstick, blush bomb, and chic paint, and some preloved items wherein her target market is young teenage girls.

Everyone was right when they said that these entrepreneurs are just students. At an early age, they manage to think of a way of surviving or even just providing spare money for their own. “Usually I ask my parents if I want to go out and buy some personal stuff. But because of my online business, I’m proud that I can buy my wants and needs using my own money and not from my parent’s pockets. I decided to run my own business because aside from earning, it can really help me be independent,” a proud remark from Julia Mae, an ABM student, who chose to sell a variety of things that she thinks will be a hit to the customers.

Just like in supermarkets, online business tends to face struggles as well. “Since we are just starting our online business we haven't experienced major problems or struggles [yet]. But I think, the number one struggle that we don't want to face is when customers ordered plenty of our products then at the last minute, cancel it for some reason. Hopefully, we won't face this kind of customer,” Keith added hoping to survive last-minute cancellation of orders, just like some shoppers who haVe a habit of leaving stuff on a basket near the counter during checkout.

Because of this pandemic, there are a lot of new online sellers out there. But instead of pulling each other down, they decided to boost one another’s self-esteem to face and have confidence in selling.

“Always do your best and keep on striving to come up with great ideas that will lead you to success someday. Selling takes patience. It's either you run the day or the day runs you. Do what you can do now because the way to get started is to quit talking but rather begin doing. As what the saying goes, ‘What u plant now, you will harvest later.’

Good luck!! Keep moving forward,” Crystal Joyce uttered while thinking positive and blissfully trusting herself and her fellow online sellers to continue what they have already started.

And there I was knowing what I should do—to support and promote an online business, especially during this time of the pandemic. And when life becomes a little stressful, I just have to click the button that says, “add to cart,” our invisible and extended shopping cart online.

F E AT U R E S 15

/uncpantograph

Yes, you read that right. The SOGIE Bill is actually going to help you, me, and everyone else. Promising gender equality and protection from gender discrimination to the Filipinos, this legislation aims to put all sexes and genders on equal footing, from education to job opportunities.

But what does ‘SOGIE’ mean? The acronym stands for “Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression.”

Sexual orientation refers to your emotional and/ or sexual direction. There are several types of sexual orientation, with the most known ones are homosexual, heterosexual, and bisexual.

Gender identity is the way you see yourself, which may or may not match with your sex upon birth. Gender expression, on the other hand, is the way you express your gender identity, which can be shown through clothing, pronoun choice, and the like.

Although the term ‘SOGIE’ is generally attributed to the LGBTQ++ community, the term, as well as its definition, is actually inclusive to all, meaning you also have

your SOGIE and I have mine - that is what the SOGIE Bill wants to protect.

And this time, it is Senator Risa Hontiveros who led its charge.

Written as Senate Bill No. 159, also known as the ‘Anti-Discrimination Bill’, it was filed during the 18th Congress on July 2, 2019.

Now, what are its provisions, and how will the SOGIE Bill provide its promised equality and protection from any forms of discrimination?

How do we even know if a certain action is discriminating?

In a nutshell, denying a person of employment, education, license or authorization, access to necessary medical assistance and other public establishments; impose harsher penalties; refuse recognition of organizations; forcefully altering their SOGIE; physical or verbal harrassment; and promoting stigma against people, just because of their SOGIE are deemed as discriminatory, and could make you a criminal in this Bill.

The proposed penalties are as follows: a fine ranging from P100,000 to P500,000 and/or prison time of just one (1) year to 12 years, depending on the act committed.

The Bill also suggests the inclusion of SOGIE concerns in police stations; the establishment

It was the early morning hours of June 28, 1969. A full moon had risen over the Stonewall Inn in New York City. However, it was not the only thing that soared up high that night. Voices of protest pierced the silence of the air. Nickels, quarters, dimes, and bottles were lobbed towards uniformed men. The Stonewall Uprising had begun.

During the latter half of the 20th century, the society viewed homosexuality negatively, especially in New York City, where it was deemed a criminal offense. Prior to 1966, it was even illegal to serve alcohol to gays, which resulted in gay establishments, such as Stonewall, to prevent police violence and brutality.

Because of this, raids at Stonewall became a regular routine.

However, on that day, things did not go into the police’s favor, as they opted to use force in arresting a lesbian for interrogation, as well as detention of cross-dressers.

Information Sources: loc.gov spot.ph

of grievance mechanisms for government employees, as well as in workplaces; and allowing the Commission of Human Rights to investigate and recommend filing complaints. These

This sparked the flame in the hearts of the gay community; a flame that wished to extinguish the force that yearned for the extinction of all who do not conform to the two genders and its roles from the face of the Earth.

Three hours later, the first skirmish between them ended.

However, June 28 was not yet over.

When evening fell, thousands of protesters showed up. This protest would continue until the following week, with another intense skirmish on the 29th.

A year later, in 1970, on the first anniversary of the Uprising, the very first Pride March was held. It was first called as the ‘Christopher Street Liberation Day’, aiming to demonstrate against centuries of abuse and discrimination towards homosexuals.

In the early 1990s, the flame of the Pride Month have reached the Philippines. However, in its early years, the celebration was made in a scattered manner, with no unity

processes would enable the country to address and rectify SOGIE-related cases.

It also mandates the implementation of various programs to free the minds of the people from the stigma

and discrimination against a person’s SOGIE, such as social protection, diversity policies, and information and education campaigns.

You may have noticed that I haven’t mentioned the LGBT+ community a lot here.

Let’s set that thinking process straight: contrary to popular belief, this is not a legislation which grants LGBTQ++ community special rights.

They may be one of the main reasons as to why this Bill was written, but this is not entirely for them.

Also, as I said earlier, it just puts the LGBTQ++ community and those that are not on equal footing.

No one loses their rights, no rights are violated.

The only thing that will be lost is discrimination. Remember, everyone has their own SOGIE. If you think that there is no discrimination against the community, think again.

Back in 2019, Gretchen Diez, a transgender woman, was detained just because she used the female restroom. She is just one of the thousands of victims of discrimination, some of which might have suffered worse.

The SOGIE Bill is also not pushing for same-sex marriage. There is no such provision cited in the Senate Bill. And no, it does not

nor continuity. It was only in 1996 during the Metro Manila Pride March, when the Filipino LGBTQ++ community came together. From then onwards, united and continuous Pride Marches were successful. Within the government, the Anti-Discrimination Bill was made. In the eyes of the public, they were beginning to be tolerated. Significant milestones were made.

However, the battle is far from over. Discrimination and violence against the LGBTQ++ community still ensue, which sometimes cost their lives.

One of the worst acts to ever befall an LGBT++ member is to be killed just because of who they are. Jennifer Laude, a 26-year-old transgender woman, was killed by 19-year-old Scott Pemberton after discovering Laude’s sexuality in October 2014.

Furthermore, during the Pride March this year, which pushed

undermine religious freedom, nor it attacks their teachings.

If you are also worried if the birth certificates may be changed, worry not. The sex, or the biological properties, is assigned upon birth based on what is ‘down there.’ It is different from SOGIE. Sadly, this Bill might just remain a bill, just like its predecessors. Actually, the history of this Bill in the Congress started all the way back to 2000, when the late former Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago and former Akbayan Representative Loretta Rosales filed it during the 11th Congress. 19 years later, it still is a bill.

Anyway, to make it easy to understand, the SOGIE Bill is just an Anti-Discriminatory Bill aimed at protecting everyone, including the LGBTQ++ community from gender-based discrimination and violence.

This is why this Bill is given the rating of ‘E’—for everyone.

Information Sources: rappler.com preen.ph spot.ph senate.gov.ph Graphics: Rhynaphine Jabonillo

through amid the pandemic, at least 20 participants were arrested despite observing physical distancing and the wearing of face masks. Fortunately, they were released last June 30, seven days after they were detained.

Nonetheless, they are planning to sue the cops for ‘illegal arrest and detention’.

And despite the fact that the Anti-Discrimination Bill was first filed in 2000, 20 years later, it is still stuck at the Congress, not even surpassing the committee level.

These events are the reason why Pride continues to be a protest.

It tells the tale of how the LGBTQ++ community fights for equal rights and protection from an unjust society who discriminates and judges them just because of their sexuality and identity.

Until their flag has been totally raised, they will continue fighting for it, and the more support they get, the more likely they will succeed someday.

Photo Credits: cbsnews.com usatoday.com daily.jstor.org brainpickings.org cnn.com Barbara Gittings Diana Davies Kay Tobin Lahusen

16 F E AT U R E S

The PANTOGRAPH NOVEMBER 2019 - JUNE 2020

“Officers charged with murder of black American, as protests say” “Burn down Racism: Global protests spread over George Floyd’s death” “#BlackLivesMatter”

Teaching is like gardening.

The students have different cultural backgrounds, interests, experiences, needs, and performance styles. Based on their differences, teaching methods require the most efficient and effective way in order to produce a good plant/ each one requires different care in order to grow and be successful.

Inside a classroom, every student learns in different ways. There are visual learners, aural learners, verbal learners, physical learners, logical learners, social learners, and solitary learners. And there are two different ways to execute a teaching-learning experience. Which one is much better and effective?

In a traditional classroom, the learning environment evolves and focuses on several components such as a teacher directs students to learn through memorization and recitation techniques, team projects, quizzes after a lecture, book-toting, and so forth that we’ve grown to know.

In short, learning is limited. While through a flipped classroom or a more modernized way of teaching and learning, students can learn a multisensory experience. It can be realized through an interactive learning environment.

In gardening, you can’t plant multiple types of seed in one pot.

There is a high possibility that only one will grow, or worst no one will grow. Just like in a traditional classroom, it is impossible to mix all of those in one teaching session which means it is inevitable that one, two, or more students will be left out. As a result, those who use less favored learning styles were lower in their classes. And in the facilitated learning experience, although it is a great way for the students to be more creative, imaginative, and increase problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to think critically and analyze information. There are still things to consider that is why it is not applied widely.

Here are some great

examples to differentiate and to weigh the pros and cons of Traditional Classroom and Facilitated Learning Experience.

Learning Environment

We used to learn inside a fourwall classroom, sitting beside your classmates listening to our teacher in front, lecturing about the lesson.

In this way, it is a big hassle for the teacher to stand and talk in front for almost 8 hours per day and for the students to stay alive listening all day.

In the facilitated learning experience, it is no longer limited to the physical classroom. Using a virtual classroom makes it a more interactive and immersive way of learning. For example, instead of reading a multiple page book about the history of the Philippines, a student can access through the internet the virtually unlimited shareable informative videos that make lessons more fun for the students. Another is, it also makes it easier for the students to have group work and discussions where they don’t need to go to one place to finish their group task, they can just easily work together online through using some innovative collaboration tools.

Teaching method

In Facilitated Learning, giving instructions, assignments, distributing lessons, reinforcing the insights, and ensuring that each student truly understands the lesson can be done online. It also includes one-on-one supervision, so teachers don’t need to overdo themselves by integrating many different teaching methods in one class; instead, they can change to the learning style of every pupil and make use of different online classroom tools. They can also conduct lessons without actually having face-to-face interaction with their class which is a great way to mold their students to be independently ready for the future.

Another good thing about facilitated learning is it will give both of the learners and the teacher the luxury of time, flexibility and

ability to work depending on their availability because classwork can be submitted through digital channels so teachers can get more free time to focus on their personal life or even improve themselves more and the students can comfortably make their classwork on their own pace.

Teaching aids

A teacher in a traditional classroom usually conducts their classes with readings and manila paper visual aid, preparing individual handouts, and lugging around teaching aids large enough for a whole class to view.

In facilitated Learning fewer papers and books. Less time writing on blackboards and no need to buy expensive books, instead each student can access the lessons, modules, exercises, and test through Chromebooks because they have gone digital, and can be reviewed at their own pace. No more piles of paperwork that need to be submitted and checked, less paper because you can easily store your files online, easy file and link sharing unlike back then it needs to be photocopied to be distributed. You only need a laptop or personal pc to easily access it and especially a stable internet connection.

I was woken up by the ear-splitting noise from our radio.

Flash reports from the usual happenings, but the thing is, it just worsens each day. But wait, there’s something in this news today that caught my attention; ‘#BlackLivesMatter’. Defined by its website, its sole purpose is to eradicate white supremacy in violence inflicted on Black communities by the state and vigilantes.

Seven years ago, it was founded in response to Trayvon Martin’s murderer. Basically, BLM movement is the fight against the discrimination experienced by black people in the UK, US, and Canada. Research says that nearly half (45%) of African-Americans experienced racial discrimination when trying to rent an apartment or just buy a home. Racism is what happens when one plays off of the oppression and societal inferior of a race. It is having a thought that one race is superior to another in their own aspect.

EXHIBIT A: Systemic Racism that led to deaths While browsing down my social media accounts, they were bombarded with tweets and posts about the death of George Floyd, who was killed by a Minneapolis police officer for allegedly using a counterfeit bill in Minnesota. The death of George Floyd awakened the reality that people need to address racism all-over the world. In fact, more black people have been killed without everyone knowing.

There's nothing wrong to support this kind of movement, however, people who are taking advantage of the situation is beyond disgusting. Supposedly peaceful protests are selfishly used for other people's own interests; breaking the glass doors of business shops and getting all the products without hesitance; looting. Destruction of property does not give justice in the situation.

EXHIBIT B: Indigenous Group in the Philippines With the rampant discussion of racism in other countries, indigenous groups in the Philippines are continuously suffering from racial injustice: Aetas, Badjaos, and Lumads are the ones who mainly suffer from social discrimination. Lumads are the largest group of indigenous people in Mindanao. Unfortunately, they are being

Grading workflows

Students are assessed through exam scores and in-class performance. It is a time-consuming grading student’s work. Spending long hours checking quizzes, inputting the grades, and computing for final scores. But in In Facilitated Learning, teachers can easily make assessments, check, input scores, and track learner’s progress using the modernized learning tools With technology, the entire process becomes automated. It is a change that hugely helps the teachers, but one problem is, you need to have a stable internet connection to execute the entire process.

displaced from their own ancestral lands.

Schools are being burned down for military purposes. Every day, Lumads are fighting for their rights to live. Just because of their tradition and culture, they are treated as if they are not citizens of the Philippines. We can't deny the discrimination that they are facing, nevertheless, they don't deserve the biased judgment and stereotypes that they receive.

EXHIBIT C: Use of ‘n-word’, ‘ching chong’, ‘bumbay’ Words are powerful and as sharp as knives. Sometimes, words are mistakenly used for fun. Racism can be more than the discrimination of skin color. It is also about the racial slurs used for mocking and insulting. Over time, the n-word has become a popular term of endearment by young generations. Quick fact: N-word was used to oppress black people as they were treated

by Americans as slaves before. Harmless jokes that are insulting the feelings and identity of a person can be interpreted as discrimination. Using the n-word casually does not differ from the manifestations of white supremacy. Calling someone ‘negro’ or ‘nigger’ may just be games, especially for youngsters who don’t bother to know the darkest history behind it. Another thing, calling Indians as ‘bumbay’ and Chinese nationals as 'ching chong' are just examples of the racist remarks you often hear. Mocking their accents just because it's different from yours does not make you and your race better. This is why the role and influence of parents are significant for the children's growth. Better off, educate yourself.

These are just a few forms of racism that developed with a lapse of time. Stereotypes remain subconsciously but are never a valid excuse to discriminate against others. Our race matters, but the exclusion of others is morally wrong. Now, I wasn't just woken up with the trendy flash reports and hashtags, I am now awake with the bigotry, biased judgment, and stereotypes that people casually do, unfortunately. May it be the skin color, nationality, culture, etc., racism can happen anywhere. Speak up! There's no room for silence and bigotry. Everyone deserves to be accepted and respected. The next time that you are about to judge someone because of their identity or difference, think again. Embrace diversity in every angle. It is never too late to learn and educate yourself on systemic racism and all the ways it plays out in society.

Graphics: Emman De Leon, II

Information Sources: blacklivesmatter.com rappler.com

Graphics: Rhynaphine Jabonillo

F E AT U R E S 17

/uncpantograph

This doesn’t stop the local government officials to boost their versatility of being adaptive in terms of helping and providing safety and comfort to their constituents. Along with it, most people admire the actions of some local government units who act as true leaders in this truly challenging pandemic.

A top-tier as Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto has been the talk of the town as he brilliantly manages to control the situation in their municipality. With his fresh ideas, everyone was so fascinated by how he adapted to the situation that clearly the value of helping his constituents, especially in this pandemic. He is more than his responsibility, he showed the capability of creating his own brand of leadership that gives off a well-managed situation that the Pasig City showed at this time. From breaking down the distribution of cash assistance, relief goods, market on wheels, and most especially the readiness of the health sectors, he manages it with transparency and communication to his constituents.

Similarly, the heroic act of these local government leaders will be in vain if people didn’t choose to coordinate and bring the Bayanihan spirit in everyone. IloiIlo City has been called the Wakanda of the Philippines during this Pandemic, a utopian country in the Black Panther cinematic movie. Wakanda was not built in a day at this time, but the city manages to minimize the situation.

Neither this can be credited to one person who has been a hero since day one. Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas is the effective warrior king of today as he placed Ilo-Ilo in comfort and safety.

During the outbreak, the country didn’t have the numbers of testing kits to test every infected patient. Marikina City Mayor Marcy Teodoro battled to have Marikina’s molecular laboratory accredited for Covid-19 testing and put

JUSTIN CARL CABALTERA Facing a global health crisis, everyone is left in distraught. It has come as a surprise to some of us and has changed the way we live. Stories of canceled summer plans, graduation ceremonies, parties, excursions, concerts, and postponed releases of series made some of us disappointed. However, these things are nothing to those narratives who have lost their jobs, suffered in hunger, continued as front liners, dealt with their mental health issues, human rights were violated, died alone, and became infected due to coronavirus disease. Much more than a health crisis, this pandemic is a human, economic, and social crisis that is attacking societies at their core.

No government should be blamed for a pandemic, but they should be scrutinized for how they respond. So, which countries have the story of handling the pandemic efficiently to somehow ease their people’s lives?

Despite its long border with China, this country of 97 million people has not reported a single coronavirus-related death and had just 369 confirmed cases. By early January, the country prepared for the outbreak before it recorded its first case by initiating a “drastic action” to be ready for this mysterious pneumonia even though it has no “clear evidence” for human-tohuman transmission at that time. The country has not hesitated to restrict movements where needed, balancing overt caution with precision.

Its government enacted immediate measures by bringing in travel

an effort in contact tracing allowing them to easily locate confirmed cases and immediately test and isolate the people who are exposed to the positive patient. Indeed this effort puts Marikina to be the slowest transmission rate in the entire Metro Manila.

On the other hand, the summer capital of the Philippines responded to the Pandemic as Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong has delivered a unique strategy in contact tracing. As a former top police investigator, Mayor Benjamin used his skills in this situation to save the downhill of Baguio City. Contact tracing is important in handling cases similar to this pandemic, which is why this is a big help, especially to the places with confirmed cases. His strategy stopped the rising of cases in their city.

Unity was also seen locally; in Naga City, Mayor Nelson Legacion

restrictions, closely monitoring and eventually closing the border with China, increasing health checks at borders, and canceling classes at the end of January until mid-May. This is how Vietnam, a low-middle income country with a much less-advanced healthcare system than others in the region, efficiently and successfully responded in combating the virus by recognizing that its medical system would soon be overwhelmed by the virus.

Vietnam was not just the only one that is hailed as a “winner” for its pandemic response. Taiwan, a self-governing island, has managed a truly admirable action in less-than-ideal circumstances despite being right next door to the epicenter of the global pandemic in the initial months of the outbreak. It quickly contained the virus with just 449 cases and only seven (7) deaths as of June 30 by immediately banning the exports of surgical masks and closing its borders. Being China’s neighbor, Taiwan learned some things along the way, which made them more prepared in this kind of situation.

Throughout, the government’s centralized response was seen as effective and credible.

New Zealand and Germany’s COVID responses were also commendable as they took the COVID-19 threat seriously from the beginning. Jacinda Ardern, New Zealand’s prime minister, was early to lockdown and crystal clear on the maximum level of alert she was putting the country under.

Properly funded health systems, technological edge, decisive leadership, and a strong commitment to building public trust are the reasons why Germany has managed the COVID-19 crisis well compared to its neighboring countries. Due to clarity and decisiveness,

who tirelessly manages the situation in Naga City and repeatedly reminding his constituents of safety during this pandemic. His leadership brought the city to more than 30 days without local transmission when they manage to battle out the confirmed cases recorded in the city and the patients recovered from the virus. His transparency was seen especially during this pandemic as he puts disciplined to his constituents by observing physical distancing in his help and the local government These are some of the local government officials who step up during this pandemic and their initiatives to provide comfort, safety, and sustain the needs of their constituents. Everyone has uniquely strategized in dealing with the situation in their respective places.

Behind the exhaustion, they still manage to control the situations and brilliantly provide solutions. Their leadership didn’t just come for responsibility but also it comes from their heart in serving the people even if it’s also a risk for their lives.

However, this is not the end of their duties as the cases continue to rise day by day. As they work extra times we, people should also participate to help the country flatten the curve, we come this far but the battle is not over. No one knows when this will end, everyone should be aware of what you can do to help them lessen the burden of their loads. Continue to practice social distancing or better stay at home. This is a serious battle not just for front liners but also for everyone.

these countries were saved from the storm.

If there are success stories, there are also countries that are still uncertain when their stories will end.

One of them is Brazil. As of June 30, it has recorded 1.36 million confirmed cases and 58,314 deaths. Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has been dismissive about the outbreak and implored its people to ignore state governors who have ordered lockdowns and social distancing measures. He downplayed the virus as a “little flu” and “hysteria”. Insufficient medical resources and limited testing capacity attributed to the high infection rates. The lack of coordinated government response is the major factor behind Brazil’s rising fatalities.

Meanwhile, as of June 30, Indonesia was leading Southeast Asia in highest tallied confirmed COVID-19 cases with 56,385, and 2,876 deaths. Containment efforts came late. Concerned about their economic impact, President Joko Widodo delayed containment measures and relied on unproven claims that tropical weather would slow down transmission in the world’s fourth most populous country.

A national task force to coordinate the government’s response was only formed in mid-March after a direct call from the WHO. The declaration of a health emergency, providing the legal basis for social distancing measures, took another two (2) weeks.

Another pandemic story that doesn’t seem to end in another country, Philippines. While other neighboring countries initiated early on emergency measures and travel restrictions, the Philippines was noticeably late to take action. Downplaying the possible outbreak that may reach the country as Filipinos scrambled for medical equipment, Duterte

attempted to allay fears in early February, saying there was “nothing really to be scared of”. Following the sharp increase of confirmed cases due to late efforts, the Congress held special sessions to enact the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act upon Duterte’s request that allows him to “reallocate, realign, and reprogram” a budget of almost Php. 275 billion.

The government has responded with various declarations of emergency, closure of schools and public meeting places, lockdowns, and other restrictions intended to slow the progression of the virus. In the immediate aftermath of the lockdown, poor Filipinos especially, were agitated with doubt in contending with hunger. As the days passed, the focus of the Filipinos was not only on the ongoing pandemic, as there have been reports and sightings of extreme prejudice in the operations of law enforcement, like the mentally ill Army veteran who was shot dead for being outside and a fish vendor severely beaten for not wearing a face mask. Arrests were shown to have spiked during the quarantine, with the cops nabbing an average of more than a thousand people per day nationwide. Handling the health crisis with violence and inefficient contact tracing, Duterte’s administration struggles to flatten the curve as the cases spike each day with 37,514 COVID-19 cases and 1,266 deaths as of June 30 despite having the longest lockdown in the world.

The COVID-19 pandemic has not spared a single nation or economy, but the way some governments have handled the crisis has raised eyebrows. Knowing these narratives, countries who prepared early and took the “little flu” seriously are the ones who are winning the fight against the virus. The COVID-19 outbreak has served as a wake-up call to health organizations and governments around the world and has made the citizens realize that government’s success in flattening the curve is the result of leadership and competent government administration, regardless of regime type. At this point, we can only hope that our pandemic story will not have a dark ending.

18 S C I T E C H

The PANTOGRAPH NOVEMBER 2019 - JUNE 2020

#COVID19Watch

COVID-19 Cases in Bicol Region FROM MARCH - JUNE 2020 SOURCE: DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH - BICOL

AS OF JUNE 30

118

NUMBER OF CASES

TOTAL NUMBER OF CONFIRMED CASES

78

TOTAL NUMBER OF RECOVERIES

06

TOTAL NUMBER OF DEATHS

JIBRIL ALLEEN LORENTE

D AT E S C O N F I R M E D

‘Support COVID-19 frontliners, patients instead of discriminating’: DOH-Bicol JIBRIL ALLEEN LORENTE “Imbes na sila ay ating saktan, sisihin, pandirihan at itaboy dahil sa takot na mahawa tayo sa COVID-19, sila po ay dapat nating unawain at bigyan ng kalinga upang patuloy ring magsilbi ang ating mga health worker na may lakas ng loob at suporta na nanggagaling sa atin,” Department of Health (DOH) - Bicol Directior IV Dr. Ernie Vera said last April 9.

DOH-Bicol strongly condemned the acts of discrimination against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients and health workers within the country. They emphasized that instead of discriminating against them, they should give their support to the aforementioned individuals, including their relatives and persons under investigation (PUIs) and monitoring (PUMs).

“Lubhang mahirap ang pinagdadaanan ng mga may sakit na COVID-19. Maliban sa pisikal na paghihirap, sila ay nakakaranas ng takot, lungkot sa pagkahiwalay sa pamilya nang matagal at sa katotohanang hindi sila maaring madalaw o mayakap ng kanilang pamilya habang sila ay may sakit,” Dr. Vera said.

Some of the reported forms of discrimination against the patients and health workers are as follows: throwing stones at their houses, humiliation on Facebook through hateful messages, blaming, and appeal for them to flee.

“Ang mas masakit pa, kung minsan ay kapwa nila kabarangay o katrabaho ang gumagawa ng mga panlalait na ito,” Dr. Vera decried.

Meanwhile, PUIs and PUMs also experience fear of the possibility of getting infected by the disease. Dr. Vera said that they are quarantined to avoid contaminations if in case they test positive for COVID-19. However, he expressed their worry once their patients recover and test negative and sent home due to possible discriminations from their neighbors in their village.

Dr. Vera also gave light on the risks that our health workers, especially those who are working in the hospitals, together with other frontliners, are facing amid the health crisis.

He reminded the public that the COVID-19 is our real enemy and not the people. He also mentioned that recovered patients, PUIs, PUMs, and health workers are following enough precautionary measures to avoid the contamination.

“Huwag po tayong matakot sa kanila.

Kailangan nila ng suporta, lubos na pagunawa at pagkalinga. Kung susundin natin ang panawagan na manatili sa bahay palagi, maliit ang posibilidad na tayo ay magkakasakit,” the director assured the public.

Dr. Vera then encouraged local government units to create ordinances to counter the discrimination or violence against the patients, the PUIs, the PUMs, and the health workers.

“Sa panahon ng krisis na ito, nawa’y pairalin ng bawat Bikolano ang pagiging makatao at huwag maging marahas kahit kanino man,” Dr. Vera enjoined the public while hopeful to surpass this crisis through following the COVID-19 protocols.

A LWAY S OB SERVE THE MI NI MUM

Safety & Health Standards!

Always wear your face mask/ shield while in publc places.

Cover your mouth/nose while coughing or sneezing

Always wash your hands with soap or with alcoholbased sanitizer

Always maintain a one-meter physical distance from one another.

BMC now capable of COVID-19 testing JIBRIL ALLEEN LORENTE As of May 28, the Bicol Medical Center (BMC) in Naga City started its COVID-19 testing, after its certification and licensure to operate as an independent testing laboratory via Rapid PCR were issued, according to the Department of Health (DOH) - Bicol.

This makes BMC the second certified COVID-19 testing laboratory in the Region after the Bicol Regional Diagnostic and Reference Laboratory (BRDRL) in Albay, the latter of which is now a training facility for hands-on testing.

"This will increase the testing capacity of the Region which is important in isolating COVID-19 suspects to prevent the further spread of the disease in the community," Dr. Ernie Vera IV, DOH-Bicol Regional Director, said.

BMC uses the GeneXpert machine, which uses Xpert Xpress SARS-CoV 2 cartridges.

This method is a rapid, real-time, in-vitro RT-PCR which detects the nucleic acid of SARSCoV 2, the virus behind COVID-19. Prior to its operation, BMC had received 600 cartridges.

The GeneXpert machine can also operate at a molecular level, which was originally used to identify Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium responsible for tuberculosis.

Test samples may be obtained via nasopharyngeal, oropharyngeal, nasal, or midturbinate swabs.

When sending samples to BMC, the same guidelines as BRDRL must be strictly followed, which involves informing the Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit before doing so.

Individuals vulnerable to COVID-19, including patients or frontliners with mild, severe, or critical symptoms, or with a history of travel or exposure will be prioritized, due to its limited testing capacity.

Currently, the laboratory can test 40 samples on a daily basis. Only the provinces of Camarines Sur, including Naga City, and Camarines Norte can be covered by BMC. To address the limited capacity of BMC, slots were allocated among the three areas: Camarines Sur and Naga City are allocated with 15 slots each, while Camarines Norte gets 10. However, the provinces/city can send more than what was allotted, but the additional samples will be tested on the following day.

As of June 28, both BMC and BRDRL were able to do 5,255 tests 90 were confirmed positive, 17 equivocal, 29 invalid, and 5,097 negative test results.

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ICT-CP launches first WAPPGA to empower studes in computer, info technology JESKHA TRISHA CRUZAT Empowering students in the field of Computer Science and Information Technology shaped the very first Web Application and Gaming Festival (WAPPGA) started this year last February 27-28 held at the Social Hall of the University of Nueva Caceres with the Grade 12 TVL ICT-CP students as the event participants.

The said event was intended to showcase the learners’ creativity and skills when it comes to programming through the projects they have developed like web applications and computer games.

“It is my dream to create an application that is helpful for me and to others.

And since I’m a student as well, I think of a way to deliver flexible learning with active communication to learning facis through an application that is easily accessible. And that’s when I came up with the School E-Manager,” Kenneth Profeta, ICT-CP B student, said.

The project School E-Manager, developed by the young app developers, is one of the exhibited application and is created for a more flexible way of learning with features, such as profile management for the users, grading system, attendance tracker, scheduling system, communication between teacher and student, allow pin announcement and many more useful functions for users.

“Creating a website is never easy...At first, it was hard. We’re very much pleased with the outcome. Being hailed as the “best web application” was just a bonus,” Profeta added.

Despite having technical difficulties from one group, the event surpassed its initial objectives; from the target 50-100 visitors, they had 100 on its first day, and doubled it up on the second day with a total of 250-300 academic and non-academic visitors including some of the Naga College Foundation students The event also featured the Tech Talk from their special guest, Marlon Vasquez, the owner and developer of POSINT Systems who has 15 years of experience in the business.

“I received nothing but positive feedback from the visitors,” learning facilitator Armando Sta. Cruz III said as he recounted his experience as the organizer of the event.

THE ‘E’ IN ‘LEARNING’ IS ‘ELECTRONIC’. Presenting his team’s School E-Manager, Kenneth Profeta and his group envisioned to help learners in making learning more flexible, during the first WAPPGA held last February 27-28 at the Social Hall. WORDS BY JIBRIL LORENTE AND PHOTO BY KEREN-HAPPUCH VIÑAS

Online Off the School CHARLES KRYXIAN LARA Despite the criticisms, the opening of classes will still be pursued by DepEd on August 24, 2020, amid the Covid-19 pandemic as DepEd believes that learning must be unhampered even in this time of the pandemic, however, postpones face-to-face classes until Covid-19 vaccine is available.

With this, schools are looking for ways to effectively deliver knowledge to students without the necessity of physical contact. Reading textbooks from bookstores is good but do you even consider that today, as technology develops, information is now available within the four sides of our cellular phones.

Udemy

Lynda

Udemy is an online learning and teaching marketplace that serves a wide variety of courses from web personal developments. Take note that it is free to download the app but, you need to pay for the courses that you want to take. The longer the course, the higher the cost is.

The good news is, Udemy usually offers a big discount on its courses, for example, Adobe InDesign Course from $199.99 to $18.99.

Lynda, similar to Udemy, Lynda offers a wide variety of courses for the students to work on even at their own paces, like video production and software development.

Unlike Udemy, Lynda’s courses are offered on a monthly subscription basis allowing students to take courses as many as they want. If you are not sure about taking a monthly subscription, Lynda also offers 10 days test drive for free.

Duolingo

Lumosity

If you are interested in being multilingual, DuoLingo is the best way to start. It is a user-friendly language learning app designed for beginners to advanced speakers. With pictures and phrases spoken by native speakers worldwide, you will learn faster in your target language, and you can finally be confident to say, “Sawasdee Kha!”

If watching videos and reading articles is not the best learning method for you, you can try Lumosity. It is an application that offers series of brain training games developed by game developers with the help of science experts. Lumosity’s brain exercises targets improving your mental faculties, helping you learn new things, sharpen your focus, increase your retention, and solve problems faster and more efficiently.

These are just a few of the useful apps that can teach you almost anything. In this time of the pandemic, one of the most affected sectors is educationm but with the help of these apps even not all, many students can still learn in this new normal world.

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‘The world will change when the seedlings grow’ —Green Minded Club on Greening the Earth Project

MARINELA SABORDO “They might not have seen yet the positive impact, but they are happy that, someday, the world will change when the seedlings grow,” Junalyn Grace Pupa, moderator of the Green Minded Club, said as they joined the university-wide Greening the Earth Project last December 15.

LET IT GROW. Various student organizations joined the Greening the Earth project last December 15 at the University Grounds. Hoping to address the threat of climate change, this university-wide event was held also reminded the students that the task is not yet finished until the tree fully grows. WORDS BY JIBRIL LORENTE AND PHOTO BY KEREN-HAPPUCH VIÑAS

Along with various organizations and volunteers, the participants planted pili and rambutan seedlings around the campus grounds in hopes of fighting climate change, as well as related problems, like water shortages.

“According to research, because of population, nagkakaproblema na tayo sa tubig sa Manila. Kung nakikita niyo, nagkakaproblema tayo at nagkakagulo na. So ang kailangan natin ngayon ay gumawa ng paraan na kung paano ma-combat o maiwasan natin na darating ang oras, ganun din tayo sa kanila. So ngayon palang, i-prepare na natin,” ErwinOliver, University Environmental Officer, stressed.

Oliver also explained that the reason why fruit-bearing trees were used instead of hardwood was that, it could be more beneficial to the community as the trees could provide food.

“May pagkain ka na, may puno ka pa, malamig pa ang lugar mo. So tinuturuan natin ang mga mag-aaral dito sa

UNC na magtanim nang tama. ‘Yong maayos, kung ano ang bagay, anong klase. Wag ‘yong tanim nang tanim,” the environmental officer added.

He highlighted that the event must not end upon planting the tree. Instead, it should be a continuous process until the tree is fully grown.

“Ang puno kasi, kailangan mong alagaan paglaki, parang bata. Now, pagtapos ng batang mag-college, mayroon nang legacy yung bata at maroon na siyang naprotektahan na puno, na kung paano siya nabuhay.

Yun ang true purpose ng tree planting,” Oliver emphasized.

Meanwhile, Pupa also believed that their participation achieved one of the organization’s goals.

“We were able to help the environment and, at the same time, we achieved one of our goals, which is to plant trees to save the environment. The members were exposed on how important it is to plant trees,” she added.

A member of the club agreed with Pupa, and emphasized how the event would improve the environment for the sake of the future generations.

“If not a clean and green environment, maybe, it’s more likely to be fresh type of environment because more trees, more fresh air to be produced. It will be a big impact to the future generations because it started today and it will benefit the future. Plant today, it will grow tomorrow,” the member said.

NOEL ADANTE, JR. Our world is suffering great losses due to climate change. It’s a global phenomenon that has welcomed some of the worst disasters we’ve ever seen. It’s a pandemic that continues to prosper, for as long as we do nothing against it. “Now, how do we actually stop it?” you may ask. Well, in order to prevent climate change from worsening, we must first understand what climate change actually is.

By definition, climate change is a change in weather conditions in areas all around the globe due to increased levels of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere. But where does all of this carbon dioxide come from? Well, carbon dioxide has many sources.

You may recall from 7th grade the term ‘fossil fuels’, which are fuels produced by dead organisms. These fuels take millions of years to form and usually stay hidden underground, but for the past few decades, we have been scavenging for them for the energy they yield. However, this energy comes at the cost of releasing large amounts of carbon dioxide in the

atmosphere.

For the most part, we have become very dependent on these fossil fuels.

We use them for electricity, transport, communication, utilities, and so forth.

It may not sound bad if you use them quite often as the impact of one individual alone is minuscule, but we’re talking big numbers here. Billions of people all around the world relying on one source of energy; energy buried underground that takes millions of years to form, being perished by the minute.

And what outcome do we get? Lots and lots of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere.

Another great contributor to climate change is deforestation.

Forests about the size of a football field

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perish every second. A big portion of this is due to mankind, and the need to meet some of our necessities, namely shelter and furnishing. This also comes at a great cost.

The absence of trees would lead to a hotter and more humid environmental temperature along with less clean air. It would also lead to a more flood-prone area, as there are no mediums to absorb the water.

Now, this may surprise you a little bit, but most of our oxygen does not actually come from trees. Not even from all terrestrial plants combined. Our main source of oxygen comes from the shallows of the vast oceans, where phytoplankton can be found.

Phytoplankton is small, microscopic creatures that live on the surface

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of our oceans, and are responsible for producing about 80% of the world’s total oxygen. But since then, these percentages have slowly descended as global temperatures rise. Phytoplankton numbers begin to decrease as the ocean water they live in no longer becomes inhabitable.

This puts our oxygen supply at risk, as there will be less photosynthesis happening overall. Meaning, less oxygen, and more carbon dioxide.

So how do we fight climate change once and for all? Well, we can’t. Given all the dilemmas above, it can be well understood that climate change isn’t a simple problem that requires only a few steps to solve.

However, we can do our own part to at least lessen its impact. We need to be a collaborative effort in order to actually make a change. You can start by putting in what you’ve learned from your previous science teachers – learning how to segregate waste, applying the 3Rs, conserving energy, and so on. Imagine how much the world could improve if all 7 billion people apply these things. We may not be able to stop climate change for good, but the impact it would bear will be greatly nullified.

Graphics: Justin Carl Cabaltera

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Doors will Open Again CHRISTINE DE VERA

Who would’ve thought that we’d all be in this situation? It’s like being stuck in a small square of space, doors all closed, or an elevator, without knowing that there would be a power outage. And the first thing your mind would probably come up with is, to panic. Hearts pounding erratically, mind searching for an escape.

And right now, we’re all stuck in this pandemic that has altered the very fabric of our existence, in one fell swoop shutting down everything we hold dear, from TV shows to sports and to the very notion of human interaction. Any social life has ground to a halt. “Social distancing” is suddenly a phrase that we hear and is reminded of daily. Some people are asking if this is the actual end.

Fear and uncertainty are rampant, having to wake up with a new set of rules and limitations and changes we have to adapt to, the difficulty that would come along with these life changes can contribute to depression and anxiety; mostly for some people who are already vulnerable to these mental health issues.

It’s like someone with claustrophobia being stuck inside an elevator. That’d be torture.

Just the fact of someone wondering if they are positive for coronavirus is like having a stigma and something that is threatening their life and that affects, of course, their mental health.

Even essential workers and health care providers can also develop psychiatric disorders after coping with stressful events and experience fear that they would transmit the virus to their family.

Dealing with high risk of infection and inadequate protection against contamination, overwork, frustration, isolation, and lack of contact with their families can cause mental health problems, such as stress, anxiety, fear, and depressive symptoms, which may have a lasting effect on their overall wellbeing.

And for those people already under tremendous psychological stress after these months of conflict, they have already lost their friends, family, loved ones, acquaintances, and certainty about their futures.

Pieces of advice from health professionals can be summed up to simple behaviors, like healthy eating, taking a break, keeping ourselves hydrated, exercising, and

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stopping ourselves from negative thoughts.

But social distancing complicates things.

How are we supposed to eat right when we’re living on canned goods and nonperishables? How can we sleep when we’re anxious about, well, everything?

It’s inevitable to let our doom and gloom take over during such situations like this. As we navigate our way through the COVID-19 pandemic staying all optimistic is not as easy as it used to be. Nations are quarantined, lots of people are dying.

If you’re feeling that the negativity is swallowing you whole, don’t worry because you’re not alone. And although it’s true that social distancing,can make people feel isolated, these actions are necessary to reduce the spread of coronavirus by suppressing it until a vaccine is produced.

And it’s also true that we need to take this virus seriously since this can cause drastic long-term changes to how we live.

But they seem to be the only neverending topics covered on local and national news. And because of this, it somehow adds up to our anxiety. Of course, there are things we need to be knowledgeable of, to protect ourselves and those around us, but we don’t need to hear about every unpleasant detail from breakfast until dinner.

Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories. Instead of focusing on these distressing events, we can make ourselves take advantage of our free time.

We can put our attention to things we’ve always wanted to do but had no time for.

Unwind and spend time with your family.

And although, you’ve heard this countless times, but one of the best ways to fight stress is taking care of yourself physically; Take deep breaths, meditate, exercise and if you can’t, you can do yoga. Eat healthy and get plenty of sleep. Maintain social connections and check on your friends and family. Phone calls or video chats can help you and your loved ones feel socially connected, less lonely, or isolated.

While social distancing measures are in place, consider connecting online, through social media, or by phone. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling. And look at the bright side because even though we’re feeling a little trapped, doors will open again. By coping with these psychological stress in healthy ways, this will make you,the people you care about, and your community stronger.

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SIGN UP NOW, CHARLES KRYXIAN LARA With the rise of technology nowadays, we can do almost everything in just one tap on our phones, from entertainment, communication, shopping to online businesses. Most apps now require the entry of our information to create an account. But before clicking that sign-up button, did you ever check what's in the data privacy policy that you need to agree before you sign up?

Or you just click that 'Yes' button to proceed to sign-up to avoid getting delayed? Well, I guess, you're missing a crucial part of your journey on that application.

A Russian mobile application, Faceapp, is now viral as people are amused with its smooth face-editing features. This photography app went viral last 2017 with its filter that can find out what's the user gonna look like after 50 years and now, the app is back with its new genderswapping filter. With its neural networks that are based on artificial intelligence, it creates a highly-realistic transformation of human faces.

However, questions were raised to Faceapp's privacy last December. The FBI issued a warning about Faceapp saying that Facebook and other apps developed in Russia are “potential counter-intelligence threat.” The owner of Faceapp, Yaroslav Goncharov, refuted the allegations and said that the app does not share data with Russian authorities though, Faceapp, like Facebook and AdMob, use trackers that the Russian users may have their data stored in their country.

Goncharov stressed that the Faceapp deletes from its cloud servers 24-48 hours after they are last edited.

Faceapp's data privacy policy is said to be "pretty solid and reassuring" because it states that the photos that will be uploaded will only be used for the app itself and not shared or reused for any other reason.

In her statement on Forbes, Rowena Fielding, head of individual rights and ethics at Protector, said that reading between the lines, the purpose of improving the app probably includes training the algorithm itself, which has little impact on the individual who has uploaded their photo.

How is it important to take a closer look at these policies? Data privacy governs how the data is collected, shared, and used. There are a number of reasons why we should consider this before signing up to a website or application.

Companies like Facebook, Faceapp, etc. may possess millions or even billions of data as it is one of the most important assets that they have and how transparent they request, share, and store data can build trust and accountability to users and partners who seeks good privacy.

Having our data private allows us to be free and safely exist in one place without being surveilled and it is a critical to living in a democratic country.

Information privacy and regulations are required for companies to protect data. And as more data protection grows worldwide, global privacy requirements and demands will widen and change.

Data Privacy does not only exist in the cyber world but also in the physical landscape. In this time of the pandemic, the issue on data privacy became more salient as the government collects information about people who tested positive for COVID-19, their health, and travel history as part of the response to contain the spread of the virus. They need to take appropriate measures on which to protect the privacy of those who tested positive in compliance with applicable data privacy regulations.

In today's world, it is really difficult to have privacy in terms of information. You may not know it but even in a touch of applications on your phone, you are already giving up your information to the companies of that application. With any free use, like Google and Facebook, you are exchanging your data in return but you don't need to worry as long as you know its data privacy policy or how they manage your information, so before clicking that 'Sign Up' button, wanna check first its data privacy policy?

t w r e e r b d l n A AN A PO-OG U J N SA AM Information Sources: forbes.com, lifelock.com, & varonis.com

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Joint Statement of The DEMOCRAT and The PANTOGRAPH x MALAYA on the ABS-CBN Shutdown In mutual recognition of the press freedom repression, The DEMOCRAT and The PANTOGRAPH x MALAYA stand firm against the blatant attack against ABS-CBN, the biggest broadcasting network in the country.

This is nothing but an ancient tactic to silence the press. This seems to be rooted in the personal interests of those who claim power. The press has not seen a darker attack than this in recent years.

The hatred of the President against the network is not old news. Their discord began in 2016, and years after, the former continuously threatened the latter of not being granted a franchise renewal. Since then, the administration branded the network as an enemy.

Now, the claim for power has never been more evident. On May 5, due to the “cease and desist” order of the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) over the issue of the expiration of their franchise, ABS-CBN finally went off the air.

The other networks may still be there, but the loss of ABS-CBN is a loss for the press, which entirely places it in grave danger. If this happened to ABS-CBN, chances are it might happen to others, especially if they report critically—something that the broadcasting giant is known for. Without a critical source of information, no one can hold the people in power accountable for their actions.

Attacking the press is not only brazen but also rude and untimely. Not only 11,000 media workers are displaced, but millions of Filipinos are paralyzed from the means of information most accessible to them. The country faces a deadly pandemic from which authentic information plays vital; denying access to the leading broadcast group is similar to taking the rights to information of these Filipinos.

History taught us to lean on what is right. ABS-CBN has served the country with truthful words than safe lies and cover-ups for the past years. They were bold to air the oppressions, the dirty acts, and the failures of the administration in a convincing fashion. Our country deserves this paramount service, and shutting them down takes the country a step backward from its fragile democracy.

With the looming threat of Martial Law, our only hope is a free, untainted voice. Fight for the truth and defend press freedom. Let the nightmare of 1972 not repeat itself.

This statement was originally posted both on The DEMOCRAT and The PANTOGRAPH x MALAYA’S Facebook Pages last May 6.