Ciencia y Virtud Second Issue 2019-2020

CIENCIA Y VIRTUD

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF CENTRO ESCOLAR UNIVERSITY www.ceu.edu.ph

Second Issue 2019-2020

ABOUT CEU

CIENCIA Y VIRTUD Ciencia y Virtud or Science and Virtue is the life-long philosophy of Centro Escolar University.

2019-2020 SECOND ISSUE Ciencia y Virtud is published three-times in a school year by the University Publications of Centro Escolar University.

ABOUT THE COVER Art by Bendel Gabriel Garcia in which he captioned with “Matututo tayong umaklas, kung makikita natin ang kahalagahan ng pangangailangan kaysa personal na interes. Dahil ang sinumang bukas ang isip, anumang piring at takip, makaririnig at magsasalita pa rin.”

EDITORIAL BOARD Erna V. Yabut Consultant Rosana D. Lucero Editor-in-Chief Giana Atienza Associate Editor Gelli Esguerra Giana Atienza Photographers Jessica Bravo Art Director Contributors Faculty: Dr. Alicia V. Dorado, Mrs. Amaryllis O. Joson, Dr. Ricardo S. Lumpas, Mrs. Ma. Catherine Pamintuan, Dr. Sofia Magdalena N. Robles, Dr. Lane E. Sakay, Dr. Carmencita H. Salonga and AJBAJ. Staff: Ms. Gelli Esguerra. Alumna: Mrs. Cynthia Ulanday-Santiago. Students: Ranielle Almira M. Agripa, Anna Riichelle Cabuguas, Ma. Eleane E. Castro, Noemi De Jesus, Iara Patricia Escober, Renz Aidan Fernandez, Carlos A. Ferrer, Raymond Fortaleza, Alma Joy Galvez, Bendel Gabriel Garcia, Christine Joyce A. Nakar, Pamela Beatrix M. Reyes, Neomi Ruth P. Rizo, Michael A. Roque, Maria Joy Tala V. Salamat Acknowledgements Dr. Corazon L. Andoy, Dr. Maria Myriam B. Bacud, Dr. Charito M. Bermido, Dr. Sharon K. Galang, Mr. Rene Ritche Gorospe, Dr. Paz I. Lucido, Mr. RichardRillo, Mr. Frances Trinidad, Marketing Communications Department, Teaching and Learning Technology Department

With four campuses and over 50 academic programs, CEU has gone far beyond its founders’ vision, laying claim to the distinction as the only higher education institution to have the following array of institutional awards for quality.

CEU was founded on June 3, 1907 as the “Centro Escolar de Señoritas” by two visionaries, Librada Avelino and Carmen de Luna, who were inspired by the patriotic movement to nationalize schools.

They were cognizant of a need for a center of learning for Filipino women focused on teaching ideal womanhood, intelligent citizenry and democratic leadership that would instill in them the tenets of science and virtue. Kindergarten, elementary, general secondary, music and home arts courses were the first programs of instruction included in the curriculum.

The school was granted university status by the Philippine government in 1932 with Doña Librada as President.

VISION CEU is the University of first Choice - the leading higher education institution fostering excellence in the advancement of knowledge while engendering personal integrity and social responsibility.

MISSION It is committed to: • Provide a rich and stimulating learning environment to prepare students to become productive, innovative and value-driven professionals and entrepreneurs committed to nation building in the context of one world; • Enhance the development of higher education through exemplar academic programs and collaborative practices; • Contribute to the promotion of human wellbeing through high-quality research, and community service programs.

CORE VALUES The core values that serve as guiding principles of the University are: V - aluing others, caring for them and empowering them A - ccountability, integrity, and trustworthiness L - ifelong learning as individuals and as an organization U - nity, teamwork, and loyalty E - xcellence in all endeavors S - ocial responsibility as citizens of the Filipino nation and of the world nation and of the world

uring the second semester of 2019-2020, the Art Appreciation class together with Teatro Escolar that was revived after several years of being inactive, had the first lantern making contest and festival at CEU Malolos.

The contest was participated by first year Medical Technology, Pharmacy, Nursing, HRM, and CAMT students enrolled in Art Appreciation. The classes were divided into groups comprising of ten members. They were given three months to plan and prepare.

The judging criteria were as follows: 20 points for reused/recycled materials or any DIY craft like Origami and others; 30 points for creativity; 15 points for neatness of work; 20 points for novelty which refers to the originality of materials used and techniques applied;

and 15 points for compliance with measurements prescribed. The length and width for the lantern both set for 30 inches.

The lantern mini parade and judging was held last November 25, 2019 at CEU Malolos Ground. The judges were comprised of Department Heads from Mendiola headed by Mr. D’Ariel Javellana from Humanities and Social Arts Department, Mr. Julius De Leon from Social Sciences Department, Mr. Roden Delos Santos represented Mr. Ricky Rosales who could not make it and Mr. Jose Cris Sotto, a faculty member of Com and Media for CELAS. The winners were announced last December 9, 2019 right after the flag ceremony. The prizes were P 3,000 for 1st prize, P 2,000 for the 2nd prize and 1,500 for the 3rd prize.

The Lantern Festival was part of the activity under “Installation Art” of Art Appreciation course. An installation artwork refers to art works that often occupy an entire room, ground, space or even in a gallery where spectators usually have to walk through in order to engage fully with the works of art.

Some installations, however, are designed simply to be walked around and contemplated, or are so fragile that they can only be viewed from a doorway, or one end of a room. What makes installation art different from sculpture or other traditional art forms is that it is a complete unified experience, rather than a display of separate, individual artworks. The focus on how the viewer experiences the work and the desire to provide an intense experience for them is a dominant theme in installation art.

In the case of Lantern Festival in CEU Malolos, it incorporated the DIY craft and reused and recycled materials.

CEU-SLAJ PRODUCES NEW ESCOLARIAN LAWYERS

passing percentage against the 27.36% national passing percentage.

Joining the 2,103 new lawyers as announced by The Supreme Court are Dan Oliver Austria, Mack Hale Bunagan, Riza Cabiles, John Kelly Cainday, Glenda Jaygee Calagui, Romeo Alexis Devora, Sheena Maniquis-Dioneda, Egwin Lamanilao, Jeoy Laverinto, Grafer-Carl Lentejas, Maurice Victoria Manuel, Nomar Jethro Mata, Janine Faye Napoles,

John Joseph Ona, Cesar Ruperto Ong, Danica Stephanie Novilla, and Carlo ValerianoToral.

For the previous years, the CEUSLAJ has been exhibiting outstanding examination results and was even listed as one of the 15 Highest Ranked Law Schools in Overall passing rate and of the 15 Highest Ranked Law Schools in the passing rate for first-time examinees in 2016.

LANTERN MAKING CONTEST AND MINI PARADE

by Ma. Catherine Pamintuan

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by Gelli Esguerra

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eventeen aspiring lawyers of Centro Escolar UniversitySchool of Law and Jurisprudence (CEUSLAJ) successfully passed the 2019 Bar Examination which translates to 32%

PCCA Holds Concert for Arts Month Celebration

Dance Troupe and CEIS Glee Club through their cultural dances, musical

by Gelli Esguerra presentations and songs in various EU Philippine Committee on “Selebrasyon” held at the CEU Student genres.

Cultural and the Arts (PCCA) Activity Center on January 31, 2020.

The concert culminated with the showcased amazing song and dance The concert displayed the song “Isang Lahi, Isang Dugo, Isang performances in celebration of the incredible talents of the CEU Singers Musika” rendered by all the performing Arts Month through a concert called Manila, CEU Concert Band, CEU Folk groups.

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Participants during closing ceremony were Lyka Athalee Dizon of Medtech CEU Makati, Kimberly Dela Cruz of Pharmacy CEU Manila, and Franz Nicole Geronimo of Dentistry CEU Manila

Awarding of Certificate of Completion to Ms. Franz Nicole Geronimo by Dr. Kyung-yong Kim, Executive Director of International Relations Office: Daegu Health College, South Korea

Awarding of Certificate of Completion to Ms. Kimberly Dela Cruz by Dr. Kyung-yong Kim, Executive Director of International Relations Office: Daegu Health College, South Korea

Awarding of Certificate of Completion to Ms. Lyka Athalee Dizon by Dr. Kyung-yong Kim, Executive Director of International Relations Office: Daegu Health College, South Korea

GLOBAL STUDENT LEADERSHIP 2019

by Lani E. Sakay

Participants together with Mr. Robert Dichey, one of the speakers

Participants of Global Leadership Program during the Opening Ceremony

Participants of Global Leadership Program during the Closing Ceremony

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aegu Health College’s Global Student Leadership Program 2019 offers students the opportunity to undertake a challenging extracurricular program. The latest was held on August 11 to 20, 2019.

Centered on the theme, “Meeting the Global Challenge: Creativity, Profession, and Humanity,” the program targets students who are interested to see their personal growth in inclusive environments and how student leadership can impact global issues and global change.

Lectures and discussions were conducted in English and covered topics such as cultural diversity, intercultural communication, and key problems in global communities.

This program also featured a variety

of activities conducted outside the classroom to engage student leaders in student leadership projects and provide them opportunity to explore Korean culture.

Activities included introduction to the Korean pop dance, cooking contest, volunteering, a group presentation, and field trips. At the closing ceremony of the program, students were required to do a performance and received a certificate for the completion of the program.

Participants were Lyka Athalee Dizon from Medtech of CEU Makati, Franz Nicole Geronimo from School of Dentistry of CEU Manila, and Kimberly Dela Cruz from School of Pharmacy of CEU Manila.

AUAP-PIM GLOBAL LEADERDSHIP PROGRAM 2019

by Lani E. Sakay

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r. Francis Jefferson D. Weber of School of Optometry attended the Panyapiwat Institute of Management’s Global Leadership Program 2019 on August 25 September 1, 2019. The program offers students the opportunity to undertake a challenging extra-curricular program.

Centered on the theme, “Next Generation Leader in a Disruptive World,” the program targets students who are interested to see their personal growth in comprehensive surroundings and how student leadership can impact global challenges and change.

Talks and discussions were conducted in English and covered topics such as innovative skills, entrepreneurship, peace, career, cultural diversity, intercultural communication, and key difficulties in global societies.

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Participants from different parts of Asia

Participant: Mr. Francis Jefferson D. Weber, School of Optometry

The program provided different extra-curricular activities to engage students in student leadership assignments and allowed the participants to explore Thai culture.

Activities included creativity contest, entrepreneurial engagement, undertaking, group presentation, and sightseeing. In the closing ceremony of the program students performed and received their certificates of completion of the program.

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A photo opportunity with the participants after their cultiral presentation

A chance to wear a tradional attire in Thailand

NEWS A photo opportunity with other delegates

CEU’S POLITICAL SCIENCE STUDENTS IN 4TH ASIA PHIL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE

by Renz Eidan Fernandez

First Year Political Science Students with Dr. Ron Bridget Vilog, Chair, Board of Directors, Asian Studies Association of the Philippines and Head of International Studies Department of De La Salle University-Manila

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he Centro Escolar University’s Political Science students were in full force in the 4th Asia Phil International Conference on Comparative Studies in Asia that was held on December 6-7, 2019 at De La Salle University – Manila.

Together with their adviser, Mr. Julius O. De Leon, the Political Science team engaged in a two-day, wellcrafted, information-worth conference with some of the brightest scholars of Comparative Studies here and from

The Program Head of Political Science Program. Julius O. De Leon with Dr. Violet Valdez, Executive Director, Asia Studies Association of the Philippines and Director of Ateneo Center for Asian Studies

Second Year Political Science Students with Prof. Gian Paolo Ines, Head of Political Science Program in San Beda University-Manila

different countries.

The team was enthusiastic in participating in different talks and activities conducted by some speakers.

The Asian Studies Association of the Philippines on behalf of Dr. Ron Bridget Vilog, Chairman of Asia Studies Association of the Philippines and Head-International Studies Department of De La Salle University, and Dr. Violet Valdez, Executive Director of the Asia Studies Association of the Philippines (Ateneo

de Manila University), commended the active participation of the Political Science students on the preparation day and during the conference.

The Asian Studies Association of the Philippines extends their gratitude to Centro Escolar University administration led by Dr. Ma. Cristina D. Padolina. The said association is looking forward for more collaborative projects, especially, to the Political Science students of CEU – Manila.

CEU LIBRARY CONDUCTS GUIDE TO GETTING PUBLISHED: RESEARCH FORUM 2020

by Amaryllis O. Joson

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EU Library and Emerald Publishing Limited, conducted a forum on “A Guide to Getting Published” (GGP) for promising and aspiring authors which includes all faculty members who have yet to publish their research papers in international peer-reviewed journals; doctoral candidates and research students.

The Research Forum was held last February 14, 2020, 8:00 am to 12:00 nn, at the LAH Seminar Rooms 2 and 3. Mr. Carlos Eclevia, Emerald Insight country representative shared tips for getting published from a publisher’s viewpoint as well as feedback from editors and reviewers and useful guidelines for first-timers and those whose papers got rejected or papers which need to be revised. A lively

interaction with the speaker in the Q and A capped the lecture proper.

The contents of the presentation were as follows: • About Emerald Publishing • Why publish?

• Finding the right journal • Preparing and structuring your paper • Submitting your paper and the peer review process • Dissemination and promotion • Copyright and Publication,

Prof. Salvacion M. Arlante, head of CEU Library, giving her Welcome Remaks

It was attended by Faculty members, Deans, Research Advisers from three CEU campuses.

A productive, enjoyable and enlightening journey in your current and future research.

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Mrs, Amaryllis O. Joson, Coordinator of Technical Services Section; Mr. Carlos Eclevia, Country Manager for Emerald Insight; and Ms. Lydia M. De Vera, Coordinator of CEU Makati Library Section

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CEU AFI STREAMLINES PROGRAMS IN RESPONSE TO THE ‘NEW NORMAL’

by Cynthia Ulanday Santiago

Recipients of First Librada Avelino Excelencia Award during the July 18, 2020 Homecoming: Judge Selma Alaras, Dr. Mariano Yupiton, Prof. Miriam Tamayo, and Atty. Jess Diaz, together with Dr. Rosita L. Navarro, Dr. Ma. Cristina D. Padolina and Dr. Paz I. Lucido

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HE Centro Escolar University Alumni Foundation Inc. (CEU AFI) is streamlining its programs for an efficient response to the Coronavirus Crisis and subsequently, the emerging ‘New Normal’ worldwide.

For their first move in response to the challenge of the crisis, members of the CEU AFI Board of Trustees, led by CEU AFI President Dr. Paz I. Lucido, recently held a meeting online via the Zoom app.

Henceforth, Dr. Lucido has been conducting meetings online as part of the ‘New Normal’ of implementing CEU AFI programs.

Scholarships One program tackled during the first online Board meeting was the CEU AFI Scholarship Program which it has been granting to deserving high school students to encourage them to enroll in CEU and thus be imbued with the Escolarian core principle of Ciencia y Virtud as set by for our founders, Dona Librada Avelino and Dona Carmen de Luna.

An innovation recommended during the Board meeting is to provide iPads or tablets to the scholars to enable them to cope with the New Normal of communicating and learning through the Internet.

During the meeting, the CEU AFI executive officers also reviewed the CEU Grand Alumni Reunion held at the Manila Hotel on January 18, 2020. Dubbed Balik CEU, Join Ka Na! the grand reunion went beyond expectations.

“We broke the record of having the biggest participation,” Dr. Lucido said in a thank you message to the CEU AFI officers, the board of directors, alumni chapters, and advisers.

“They were at the helm of all, from concept to preparation, and implementation of the program,” Dr. Lucido said. “From preparatory meetings, ideas jelled first with the come-on theme of “Balik CEU, Join Ka Na.” This pushed the idea of coming, not only on Grand Reunion day but every reunion activity of the Chapters and the Grand Reunion day.”

In her message, Dr. Lucido particularly

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thanked CEU President Dr. Ma. Cristina D. Padolina and the CEU Management Council who always support our alumni activities.

“Formation of an Executive Committee was opportune and effective,” Dr. Lucido added.

This group was composed of Roscel PauleChua, Jane Erica P. Acosta, Techie M. Perez, Betty Lou S. Peñera, Cynthia U. Santiago, Ma. Modesta M. Mercado, and Mariah Sharmaine S. Liquigan.

The committee was ably assisted by the ZManila Company, Inc. led by its president, Bangs B. Zaldivar, who is also a CEU alumna.

‘Firsts’ The Grand Reunion mounted a number of “firsts” which may eventually be part of the CEU AFI New Normal: • For the first time, instead of the usual souvenir program, CEU AFI chose to promote the Grand Reunion in Panorama, Manila Bulletin’s Sunday magazine, which featured a Special Issue on the Grand Reunion with 300,000 copies distributed nationwide.

• Proceeds from advertisements in the Special Issue as well as from the Grand Reunion ticket sales beefed up the CEU AFI scholarship funds. As part of the CEU AFI Community Outreach Program, a portion of the proceeds was also contributed to the relief operations for the victims of the Taal Volcano eruption on January 12, 2020, which, according to the Philippine News Agency, affected a total 50,599 families or 203,763 persons.

• For the first time, the Grand Reunion included the first-ever CEU Alumni Hymn with lyrics composed by former CEU President and now member of the CEU AFI Board Dr Rosita L. Navarro and Mr. Angelito Ayran Jr., head of CEU Conservatory of Music, composed the music for the hymn.

• Another first was the Excelencia Award, conceived as the ultimate award alumni can receive, a testimony to the highest of

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humanitarian or scientific achievement and loyalty to our Alma Mater. Chosen to receive the first of the Excelencia Awards were Atty. Jesus “Jess” Diaz, elected councillor in Sydney, Australia; Judge Selma Alaras, Prof. Miriam AzupardoTamayo and Dr. Mariano S. Yupitun.

• Also for the first time, CEU AFI particularly chose Jubilarians as recipients of the awards which, she pointed out, were long due. Dr. Lucido added, “Thus, we owe the Chapters for their nominees, while a selection committee judged awardees into Stellar, Distinguished, and Milestone categories.”

• The Grand Reunion launched the first various benefits of the Alumni Identification Card providing discounts in restaurants and other commercial establishments, a number of which are kindly being granted by owners who are Escolarian alumni.

• Also for the first time, the officers and Chapter presidents reprised the Sampaguita Interlude choreographed with much patience by CEU alumna Juanita P. Alamillo. CEU mounts the Sampaguita Interlude every year, a few days before Graduation Day, as a ceremony where the seniors turn over duties and responsibilities to the juniors. Gracefully, they move into floral formations while singing the songs Fair Sampaguita, El Collar de Sampaguita, and Sampaguitang Mabango, the rites becoming a nostalgic memory for every Escolarian.

Positive Comments Hosted by CEU alumni celebrities, Kimverly Suiza, Fiona Lava, Roji Soriano, Edward Jay Quinto, and Philip Budiongan, the Grand Reunion elicited a downpour of favorable comments on social media.

Dr. Lucido said, “We thank those alumni who posted Instagram and Facebook messages, as they shared their rare experience of “connecting” and making “sulit” the many hours of air travel and post-flight jet lag they had to go through just to be able to attend the reunion.”

She added, “In the end, let us all thank Divine Providence for the gift of life bestowed on us and the blessing of continuing camaraderie that unites all Escolarians wherever we are and however we flourish in the many years ahead.

Long live Escolarians beyond age and time!”

In essence, Dr. Lucido expressed that the New Normal of CEU AFI is actually anchored on using Knowledge - talents, skills— and Virtue— acknowledging Divine Providence as a source of inspiration for the success of CEU AFI’s advocacies. Yes, CEU’s Age-Old Normal of living our core principle of Ciencia y Virtud.

CEU EXTENDS ASSISTANCE TO FRONTLINERS

by Gelli Esguerra

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espite the fear that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused the world, it has paved the way for cooperation and compassion of private groups, companies, and institutions in providing assistance to the patients and frontliners. Centro Escolar University Community Outreach Department (CEU-COD) in its best effort also extended a helping hand to the medical frontliners in this time of the global health crisis.

The government has been very persistent in reminding the Filipinos on the strict implementation of the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) by staying at home and practice social distancing.

Although it was quite a challenge on how help can be possible without compromising the safety of others, the CEU-COD maximized their established strong linkages with different institutions and companies and launched a relevant project titled “Resource Generation to Help COVID Frontliners”.

“It is simply linking needs to resources with the use of the internet. The Department accommodated inquiries and requests of some hospital personnel who were in need of assistance for their frontliners, and these were sent to potential donors. No physical contact and transaction, because the process was just facilitated at home,” said Dr. Lolita Pablo, CEU-COD Department Head.

Through this project, 180 frontliners of UST Hospital were given food assistance by two CEU alumni from the School of Education, Liberal Arts, Music and Social Work and School of Nutrition and Hospitality Management. In addition, the Project Manager of the Insular Life Foundation, Inc. sought the assistance of the CEU-COD to connect the company to Makati Medical Center where 250 sets of Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) were received by the supplies officer of the hospital. A week after, the medical social worker from

Villarosa Hospital requested for masks, gowns, alcohol and gloves for their frontliners. Again, the COD contacted possible donors and the next day, they received a text message from a donor who requested to remain anonymous, donating an amount of P100,000.00 to the said hospital. A private donor also gave 20 pieces of plastic shields to Jose Reyes Hospital.

Aside from this project, the CEU Malolos Dentistry Department headed by Dr. Shirley Wong together with the faculty, alumni, and students donated masks, face shields and isolation gowns. Several hospitals such as the Rizal Medical Center Laboratory Department, UP-Philippine General Hospital Department of Pharmacy, Makati Medical Center, The Medical City, Sta. Ana Hospital, Mary Chiles Hospital, Manila Doctors Hospital also received food, face masks, and gloves through the efforts of the CEU Makati Consumers Cooperative spearheaded by its CEU Makati’s Vice President, Dr. Olivia Limuaco.

As the fight for this pandemic continues, these initiatives of the CEU community to serve the nation’s frontliners will continue.

ESCOLARIAN SPEARHEADS FACT-CHECKING INITIATIVE AMIDST COVID-19 PANDEMIC

by Anna Richelle Cabuguas

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entistry student, Roi Alporha finds that to be a frontliner is not necessarily required to be in hospitals or in checkpoints as he spearheads Fact-check PH. “Fact-check PH started as Fact-Check Philippines. It is a factchecking initiative by a non-profit, youth-led media organization, Assortedge. It all started in 2017 during the SONA of President Duterte. I wasn’t part of it yet.” he said when asked how it all started. Assortedge as a media organization has been specializing in ‘contextual reporting’ and ‘explanatory journalism’ and is actually known by their social media infographics. As they say “we explain the news to people”.

Since then, Assortedge has been tagged by extreme right loyalist as ‘propagandists’ when in fact, they are only made up of volunteer and award-winning campus journalists throughout the country.

“Maybe they just cannot fathom the fact that these kids knew better.” he added.

When asked how he became the initiative’s director, Alporha said “Actually, I first became part of Assortedge as a lay-out artist.

Then, the group promoted me into becoming their Social Media Director and since na-idle siya for a long time as an account, I suggested it be revived dahil necessary naman siya.”

Through his suggestion, the group has then poured efforts in introducing the initiative to the people. With that, he actually took the post of overseeing and directing it. “I formally took the post when University of Santo Tomas invited Assortedge at an event about Social Media Literacy. I was the moderator of the fact-checking part of it. We introduced Fact-check PH as the country’s first ‘fact-

checking community’ for we believe na the best way to teach people to fact-check is to make them fact-checkers themselves” The pandemic has since brought overwhelming information, both the false and correct. When asked how they dealt with it, he said “It makes you realize the weight of the job. Lalo na ngayong may pandemic. People need to know the truth. The truth from science, the truth from the government, everything. We should all be accurately informed. It will save lives.”

Today, Fact-check PH has over 10,000 likes and nearing 12,000 followers on their official Facebook Page. While their Twitter boasts 6,551 followers including Rappler CEO Maria Ressa, and ABS-CBN news anchor, Karen Davila.

When asked how can people say if someone or something is factual, he responded “Actually may parameters. May statistics, may history, maraming pwedeng maging parameter. Ang problema, if walang context, it’s useless. So you need to contextualize it to create social comfort.”

“I am personally biased. I am biased to the truth. If you get to choose from someone honest and someone truthful, I will choose the truthful one if I were you. You see, when you’re honest kasi, you don’t tell lies. But, if your truthful, you discuss the truth and the things that surrounds it. Magkaiba ‘yun.” he further added.

Alporha had also served as the Circulations Manager of the university’s student publication, The New Academe last 2018.

According to him, he was a journalist by heart even during his highschool and has actually competed at the National Schools Press Conference.

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LAUNCHED THROUGH HEAVENS

by Raymond L. Fortaleza and Ma. Eleane E. Castro

“Death is not extinguishing the light. It is putting out the lamp because the dawn has come.”

-Rabindranath Tagore

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eath, sorrowful as it may seem, will never be the end of one’s journey, but instead a key for a door that no one has yet to know what lies ahead. It was a pang in my heart when that news came rushing that day. Everything is pacing like a hurrying tornado that turned into a halt as the words snapped before my eyes in a messaging platform. Zenaida M. Austria, one of the Great Minds of Sci-Tech with a motherly love opened the door towards the unknown.

But the stars and the skies, as they hear and see the rippling sound of the rivers and the dancing of the daffodils, can see what lies and awaits ahead. And just like the stars that are drawn perfectly to create a constellation, is a reading of possibilities in the future. The clashing of moments and the intertwining of events. The movement of fate and destiny. And as Dean Austria’s book closes, another unfolds.

In the home of futuristic goals and millennial possibilities of School of Science and Technology, left are the footprints of Dr. Austria. She left a mark upon the hearts of every branches she produced from her trunk.

SPIRITUALITY IN PANDEMIC TIME

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he Pandemic COVID 19 brought crisis to each and every one regardless of color, creed religion and status in life. Everyone is prone to be affected of this virus due to the fact that transmission is via airborne and no one is exempted. The world is covered with fear and anxiety. Anxiety may be brought by the Enhanced Community Quarantine where staying at home is not that great especially if the space is not enough for everyone, food is not sufficient and ventilation is poor. There is fear of losing life and the lives of our beloved relatives and friends who serve as front liners in the hospitals and other establishments. There is also anxiety of losing jobs because not all establishments can sustain and support their workers. Anxiety is the new language in education where everything is transmitted via on line and not everyone is ready. And most especially, the fear of what will be the future?.

Facing these anxieties and fears is very challenging. In this time of crisis, people turn to God to alleviate their sufferings. Being connected to God is the main weapon to have peace of mind. Prayers are recognized to be very important now a days, for the belief that this crisis is now beyond the capacity of the human being to solve but it is in the hands of God, in His loving mercy, in His loving time, He can end this crisis.

The University Ministry in support for the Spirituality of the CEU Community engaged in a very meaningful way to connect to people and bring the good news. In this time that we

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And today, as an open possibility, witnessed by the suggestive marks of future from the stars, is the meeting of two souls’ desire to recreate for the better and procreate for the future. Two souls met by destiny’s playful hands. Even in the shadows by the grim of darkness, there is the light that they chose, for the future of the students of their school.

May 24, 2020 was a day to be marked as we’ve lost someone, but paved a way for an idea of a plan and project that was launched, not only for the people to see, but instead, launched all the way to heaven to deliver the sincerest gratitude and love we had for the things Dr. Austria embarked in our hearts. My Bible Verse is not just a project but a tribute and a commitment. It was a jar of biblical thoughts and verses seen on screen delivered to every homes through wires of communication. The goal of this project is to develop a community within a social media platform that will change the perspectives of the CEU students during this pandemic and uplift their faiths despite troubles and problems.

Furthermore, it also provides the viewers a viewpoint about the 3S’s the School of Sci-Tech is trying to become. To provide Sanctuary not just a home, Solitude and a Stand for Solidarity.

It was never the end. As she walks into the light, all great things she left will always be remembered. She might have passed but she’d walked through a long distance leaving footprints to cherish and be remembered. And as a souvenir for her, we offer this project, My Bible Verse. May the stars guide you and may the sky bring forth the message we made.

An offering and tribute done by the School of Science and Technology.

by Sofia Magdalena N. Robles

photo courtesy vaticannews.va

cannot do that much but reach out by bringing the word of God through social media may mean a lot to inspire the community. The following are created for on line activities: “Sunday with the word of God, daily bible verse for reflection and the daily flower offering to Mama Mary for the month of May. These on line activities create a community of Love and Unity among the three campuses (Manila, Malolos and Makati). CEU officers, staff and students are invited to be part of the readings for Sunday word of God, to do daily flower offering and share reflections on the uploaded daily bible verses. These are all available at FB Page : CEU Manila - University Ministry/ Chapel of the Immaculate Conception @ https://www.facebook.com/ceu.um.chapel/ and You tube channel link for Sunday with

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the Word of God https://www.youtube.com/ channel/UCI_e80-9aSXy6YxZB4jAbiQ. The unity, team work and collaboration of this meaningful work is truly the work of God. Aside from bringing gladness and happiness to the heart of those who participate, patronize , listen, read, pray and reflect, it becomes a way of strengthening the spirituality of CEU community which in one way or another alleviates the fears and anxieties. Being connected to God through praying together spiritually and reaching out to each other bring an atmosphere of love to the community. People who are connected to God through prayers will always have an assurance of hope for “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak” (Isaiah 40:29).

CONNECTED WITH YOU WHEREVER YOU ARE

by Carmencita H. Salonga

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ear 2020 surprised us with a BANG! Post-new year glees were suddenly turned to sorrow as ash fell from a raging Taal in January; bringing deaths, destruction, and millions worth of damages. Fear covered February as African Swine Flu hit southern provinces, banning pork and pork-based products in a country that loves pork. As if that wasn’t bad enough, March saw the dawn of a new virus outbreak that rattled not only the Philippines, but shook the core of the entire world.

Starting June 1, Metro Manila and the National Capital Region (NCR) shifted from modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) to general community quarantine (GCQ) with fewer restrictions on travel. With the continued personal, social, and economic shift we are experiencing today, uncertainties loom on an unfamiliar future after COVID-19.

One may struggle, feel pain, or face difficulties, but feeling negative emotions is

quite understandable, as it is from crises that opportunities to re-forge ourselves come. And we can then arise STRONGER. From this scenario, the Guidance and Counseling Department ramped up its efforts to reach out to all students. With the vision of emotionally healthy Escolarians despite the pandemic, GCD created a bulletin of information which hopes to help students take better care of themselves.

The CEU Guidance and Counseling Department Facebook page was developed as an avenue for the CEU community to learn from, be motivated, and support each other in coping with today’s adversities. It shares a wide array of mental health and selfcare techniques, positive and encouraging messages, educational infographics and videos, and other self-help related materials.

As every student truly matters, GCD conceived another platform to expand its scope – the CEU Guidance and Counseling

SAFETY MANAGEMENT TIPS ARE LENT OUT TO HELP ESCOLARIANS

by Raymond L. Fortaleza

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mid an on-going pandemic the world is suffering from, as the council president of School of Science and Technology, I wrote 18 safety management tips that will help my fellow Escolarians cope with online class during the enhanced community quarantine.

We started the initiative to create such narrative and tips to help our fellow Escolarians during online class and be guided of what must be done.

In the midst of uncertainties, I know in my heart and soul that students are in the peak of loss. Lost in a lot of sense, cannot decide whether they will do things accordingly or just go with the flow to form a big issue to the university, simply a mother or a leader instinct.

You can see the true leadership on how we function in crisis. This is why we created such guidelines and precepts.

It was during the moments of inquisition when students ask various questions and queries that made me create a three-page paper containing all the things the student must learn, follow and understand on the

implementation of online class while under quarantine.

I made this to ease the worries of whole Sci-Tech studentry. With this, we can assure that the students are enlightened and are worry-free.

These 18 safety management tips are subdivided into three categories namely: encouragement, compassion and quality education with an acronym ECQ. Even if the tips have enough information that can answer the questions of the student body, I ended the tips with openness which states, “Last, if you have questions, please don’t hesitate to ask the whole SCI TECH FAMILY. This time of pandemic trains students to become Better Leader and Good Professionals in the future. You may set a high note in a modern time but definitely let US keep our FAITH within ourselves and continue the power of our DREAM.” The tips aim to answer the queries of Escolarians and guide them as they go. The student council is always happy to serve.

COVID NEWS

Google Classroom. The page shares roadmaps, information, and question prompts to help students explore their own thoughts and feelings, and also serve as a guide in interacting with other students. Also mingling with students are the Guidance Counselors, Psychometricians, and GCD staffs who facilitate activities towards a more wholistic experience.

Emotional health is an important part of overall health. GCD hopes to uplift more students by inspiring them cope effectively with hardships, assist them to remain productive even at the comforts of their home.

Escolarians who wish to get motivated, and want to learn more tips on how to manage their emotions are encouraged to visit the CEU GCD FB Page and Google Classroom on the links provided below: CEU Guidance and Counseling Department Facebook: https://www.facebook. com/CEU-Guid ance-and-C ouns elingDepartment-100141224968506/ CEU Guidance and Counseling Google Classroom: classroom.google.com/u/0/c/ MTAyMjcxMTk0NDYw

THE 6TH ASIAN CONFERENCE ON EDUCATION AND INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT (ACEID2020)

by Ricardo S. Lumpas

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n March 23-26, 2020, I participated in The 6th Asian Conference on Education & International Development (ACEID2020). The conference venue was in Tokyo, Japan but due to the covid-19 pandemic and travel bans between Philippines and Japan, it was held through online live streaming via Zoom, the cloud-based video conferencing platform. Various studies on education and language made by researchers from different countries were presented, and featured presentations and workshops were held.

I was given a certificate for my virtual presentation of a group research on critical thinking. I was also awarded a certificate as senior reviewer of the conference. The event was organized by The International Academic Forum (IAFOR).

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“The following poems are student out

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• Ciencia Y Virtud│Second Issue 2019-2020 • STUDENT

OUTPUTS

tputs and part of their class projects.”

STUDENT OUTPUTS

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AN EYE FOR ART DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC PERIOD

by Ma. Catherine Pamintuan

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MO no 20, series of 2013, or what is known the General Education or GE Curriculum sets minimum standards for the general education of which Humanities that is now known as Art Appreciation to be taught in the undergraduate programs in both private and public colleges and universities or higher educations and institutions (HEIs) all over the country. It sets the goals, outcomes, and competencies as well as the modified core courses and electives.

The new GE curriculum was implemented last 2018-2019 that aims to expose undergraduate students to various domains of knowledge and ways of comprehending social and natural realities, in the process, developing intellectual competencies and civic capacities.

The GE core courses are interdisciplinary and stated broadly in order to accommodate a range of disciplinary perspective and approaches. The goal is the holistic development of the person which targets competency-based outcomes categorized into intellectual competencies, personal and civic competencies and practical responsibilities.

It is this thrust that art appreciation was designed during the CHED GE training held in Ateneo de Davao last 2017-2018.

In addition to its goals it also aims to bring art appreciation closer to the students by introducing indigenous arts found within their region into the curriculum. For Mindanao there is the “Okir or Ukil art” and in Bulacan the “Paper Picado” a paper design art used to wrap a dessert during the Spanish period called “Pastillas” a candy made from sugar and cows’ milk. In order to create a dainty presentation they created beautiful crafted design into the “papel de japon” a special paper used for the paper picado.

Paper picado is one art that is now almost being forgotten in Bulacan but is now being revived under my art appreciation class complimenting the Okir art from Mindanao.

Last semester we had a lantern festival participated by my first-year students. They made use of recycled and re used materials to create lanterns. In addition, we also had stone art, mosaic and coffee art.

However, due to COVID 19, classes were suspended indefinitely and that warranted me to redesign all my activities to meet the needs of the students for art appreciation.

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• Ciencia Y Virtud│Second Issue 2019-2020 • REFLECTIONS

I also took into considerations the issue on the quarantine, lockdown and stay at home policies of the government. Knowing that many of my students may lack some materials I encouraged them to use whatever materials that they could find to work on the activities. I even made some new innovations that initially gave a positive result to the subject.

For one, I requested my students to prepare a short poem in recognition and honor the efforts of the front liners and at the same time encouraged the stay at home policy and observe the quarantine period. I also encouraged them to prepare a video along this line. As a result, the First Year Dentistry students came out with their “Covid-19 Awareness and What To Do” while the First year BSIT/BSBAFM students came out with their “Hand Washing” video.

Since they are mostly at home, I included interior design and landscape into their activities. The thrust or objective was to maximize their stay at home by being productive and creative and by motivating them to re-design any of the parts of their home, their own rooms, tables, any idle landscape or area into something creative and useful making use of DIY craft or re-used or recycled materials.

In line with architecture I still did maintain the art of sculpture and carving either with the use of soap that they can also use and decorate their bathroom with, candles or even vegetable or fruit carving like a squash carved into sunflower.

Scribbling (abstract) on the other hand together with pointillism encourages them to express either in music or dots any reserved feelings and emotions. Scribbling was a product of a music that I requested them to listen to. Then I asked them with their eyes close to follow the flow and beat of the music while scribbling. The title of their work is the product of the music they listened to, then the application of the colors.

Pointillism on the other hand has two versions. The first was to create something making use of dots within their art work, while the second version was for them to create as many dots as possible heavy or light on the paper, then connected the heavy dots and colored them.

Lastly, we also wish our students to have fun by being an artisan themselves, meaning allowing them to create their own version of any portrait, sculpture, or painting which we call “Photo Appropriation”.

Despite Covid-19, quarantine, lockdown and stay home policies, I know with art our stay at home will indeed be fruitful; all it takes is “Being Creative and Being Productive”.

Here are some of the students’ outputs:

DEAR MEDICAL STUDENT...

by AJBAJ

(Originally entitled A Challenge to All, this piece was written by the author as a young faculty member more than two decades ago. While so much progress has been made in medical education, many things remain the same. There is a constant that underpins all these.) here is this observation that medical students nowadays are not prepared to sweat it out in medical school. With the desire to obtain an M.D. degree, the students focus only on the title and the rewards that go with it: prestige, social standing, respect, income. They fail to realize that before they achieve such, they must work agonizingly hard, they must sacrifice a great deal and they must cope with the rigors of the discipline. It would seem that there is a pervasive mood that medical school is peanuts, that the course can be NOT difficult. Partially acceptable, but only if one sticks to a regimen, and only if one gets rid of bad habits.

By and large, it is not an “end-justifying-the-means” kind of thing, becoming a doctor is also emphasizing the process: the student, to start off, should develop the discipline and work ethic as he goes along.

The students and likewise, their families should be aware that medicine is really tough. Tough, because the subject matter

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is inherently tough and because the approach is such that it becomes even tougher. After all, when you study medicine, it is supposed to simulate the extreme pressures of life as a fullfledged physician -- decisions concerning life and death, ICU patients, 24-hour duties, midnight rounds, moral and ethical issues, disruptions of personal and family life, and so forth and so on. This is done so that the transition becomes easier to accept.

This is done because there is supposed to be no room for mistakes when you are dealing with a human life, because you do not only want to end up as a good doctor, but as a good person as well.

Hence, the student cannot afford to delve into other more trivial pursuits. He must understand that spoon-feeding is not the rule and that he is left on his own much of the time. The comforts of a pampered life are not his for the taking; rather it is the trials that are abundant. Only then can his stint in medical school be worthwhile and fruitful.

Men who play God. Do we really deserve this cliche? Are we losing our handle on the nobler objectives of medical education?

What are our options in terms of screening of would-be medical students? These questions would hound us again and again. And we do not have any choice but to deal with them.

IN THE MIDDLE OF BLACK AND WHITE

by Bendel Gabriel Garcia

photo courtesy aljazeeranews

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hile I try my best to be optimistic and view the world in a positive perspective, I couldn’t help but to think, that as cliché as this thought may be, but this quarantine is not favorable for everyone. There are people who live with their abusers and rapists. There are people who couldn’t even afford a single slice of bread for the whole family while they are working, what more now that all works are suspended. And while there are people who keep on insisting that the world is healing, and we should follow the government, I’ve come to my realizations on what the pandemic is really trying to show us.

I’ve come to realize that this pandemic crisis highlighted the bar between the rich and the poor. A blessing to the rich is a threat to the poor. And while everything is only a matter of perspective, I realized that those who view the pandemic crisis in a positive are those who are blinded of their privilege. The rights of the rich are privilege to the poor. And no matter how you look at it, a positive nor a negative point of view will not be beneficial for the both sides, but a perspective that can view everything in different angles is what’s more helpful at times like this. And that is a perspective not just coming from an open eye but also from an open mind.

I noticed how many of the people, those who are positive on-lookers of political and societal issues have become enraged when they have been affected by the quarantine. That diversity

in humanity is not the real problem of the world. Because we can always unite the diversions of humanity whenever there is a bigger threat than its own existence. What the real problem is our own ignorance.

We cannot always stay on the positive sides of everything as much as we want. And that being passive to whatever is happening suppresses your rights to speak-up, and provides selfish advantages to the oppressor and never for the oppressed.

And as sad as it may be, I’ve come to realize that there are people who will step-up to the different side of perspective only if they are affected. The crisis highlighted not only the bar between the rich and the poor, but also the ignorance imposed to the very existence of humanity, that we ignore the threat if we are on the upper-hand and we will only voice-out the oppressed, if we are one of them. And that needs to be changed.

We need to defy the ignorance in humanity. We can always do that despite being in a non-social studies course. Our course and occupation does not serve as an excuse to be ignorant and to be in an apolitical stand to the victims of poverty, capitalism, and fascism. And as much as I ingest my realizations during this community quarantine, I have learned that the best gift to give at times like this is to be a light bringer to those who are confused, to be an eye for those who couldn’t see, to speak- for the victims whether or not we are one of them. For us to diminish the gray shade in the middle of black and white, to abolish the ignorance in the neutral sides, we need to encourage everyone, not just to choose and to deny one side, but to choose for the good of the country and its fellow citizen. Because cultural and societal diversities in humanity cannot be united when there is ignorance.

And the only way to change that is to acquire a perspective not just coming from an open eye, but also from an open mind. Because anyone who has an open mind never succumbs to oppression.

REFLECTIONS

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SOCIAL DISTANCE, SOCIAL CONNECTION: LEADERS MUST BE CONNECTED WITH THEIR PEOPLE

by Neomi Ruth P. Rizo

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t has been almost two months since the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) started in the Philippines. As we look back from the day it began and until today, we can see that there are changes that are already occurring. People around would say that we should start adjusting our lifestyles from what they call the “new normal”. And applying “social distancing” is what they are preferring on that matter. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defined social distancing and also called “physical distancing”, as keeping space between yourself and other people outside of your home. That means to stay at least 6 feet (about 2 arms’ length) from other people; to refrain from mass gathering and to stay out of crowded places. Living in the “new normal” era would require a lot of efforts for people before we totally get used to it. Because basically, according to different scientists and philosophers, humans are social creatures by nature. The great Aristotle once said that, “man is by nature a social animal; an individual who is unsocial naturally and not accidentally is either beneath our notice or more than human. Society is something that precedes the individual.”

Considering the facts from the article Nature Human Behavior, human beings are social species that rely on cooperation to survive and thrive. People are all under a governing power – whether led by presidents, prime ministers, kings and queens; we should all be responsible citizens to the rulers. Thus, leaders must stay connected with their people. This means that their responses to the Covid-19 pandemic are very crucial.

The society that they are presiding are all depending on them. And that includes their decision-making skills on the current situation of the countries today.

According to Aljazeera News Online, in worst-hit regions, hospitals are overwhelmed with the sick and dying, while the poor and vulnerable everywhere are experiencing severe food shortages and starvation. And what’s at stake now is the peace and stability in the world. United Nations SecretaryGeneral Antonio Guterres called politicians to “forget political games” and come together for a “strong and effective response.” Most of the countries’ reactions are dithering and denial, driven by personal interests, distrust of science, and fears of wreaking economic

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photo courtesy mfameguruimages

havoc. Countries like the United States (Pres. Donald Trump), Brazil (Pres. Jair Bolsonaro), Mexico (Pres. Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador) and Indonesia (Pres. Joko Widodo), are all in the state of denial and delays. Some of them have taken the virus as “little flu”, a “fantasy” and would “disappear” one day. Indonesia’s president admitted that withholding information on the outbreak, had been used to prevent the panic. Some of his officials said prayer would keep the disease away, and the country’s warmer weather would slow the virus spread. While the countries, Germany (Chancellor Angela Merkel), Singapore (Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong), South Korea (Pres. Moon Jaein), New Zealand (Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern) and El Salvador (Pres. Nayib Bukele) received praises from people because of their actions toward the spreading of the virus. Germany’s chancellor said that the virus is serious, so they must take the virus seriously. Although, they are part of the top 10 countries with high numbers of covid-19 patients – it has a much lower fatality rate than most. On the other hand, in Singapore, their prime minister said that they are transparent to the people about the news and update of the said virus. Lee said, “If people do not trust you, even if you have the right measures, it is going to be very hard to get them implemented.” And there are countries like Hungary (Victor Orban), Philippines (Pres. Rodrigo Duterte) and Israel (Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu) who were accused of using the crisis as a cover to amass power.

John B Marry, a historian who studied the Spanish Flu pandemic that killed as many as 100 million people in 1918 said, “it’s been disappointing in many countries – too many; in some countries, it’s been outright reprehensible - some leaders’ actions will unnecessarily kill many of their citizens.”

He added that if these leaders expect public compliance with calls for social distancing,

• Ciencia Y Virtud│Second Issue 2019-2020 • REFLECTIONS

the public has to believe in them. If they don’t trust those who advocate them, they won’t, and compliance will not be as good and they will be less effective. Hence, to tell the truth to the people is much needed in facing the pandemic together.

We may be applying the physical distancing for safety purposes – but we should not neglect to be socially connected in some ways at least. To be well-informed with all the happenings in our society is one big help. Thus, it will open our senses to the reality that we must be aware of such as the new protocols being implemented in the country of which we are a part of. So, to say “ignorance is a bliss” nowadays might not be a good idea to hold on to, with regards to the spreading of the coronavirus. Being ignorant is not believed as a good thing at all. There are situations that people become happier not knowing the truth; but with what’s happening in our world today, nonetheless, “telling the truth” will help us spare from danger – from the threats of COVID-19.

References: The cooperative human. Nat Hum Behav 2, 427–428 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1038/ s41562-018-0389-1 Rasheed, Z. (2020, April 3). COVID-19 pandemic is testing world leaders. Who’s stepping up? Retrieved from https:// www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/04/covid1 9 - p an d e m i c - te st i ng - wor l d - l e a d e rs stepping-200402201221844.html Parker, C., Parker, C., Eisenberg, J., & Eisenberg, J. (n.d.). ‘Over-reacting is better than non-reacting’ - academics around the world share their take on coronavirus.

Retrieved from https://www.weforum.org/ agenda/2020/03/coronavirus-covid19global-academics-insights-pandemic/ Social Distancing, Quarantine, and Isolation. (2020, April 4). Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019ncov/prevent-getting-sick/social-distancing. html

WHEN THE DUST SETTLES: HOW A PANDEMIC CHANGED THE WORLD

by Alma Joy F. Galvez

photo courtesy jakpostimages

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he 21st century is an age of globalization, a world connected in every aspect of life through trade and commerce, partnership, and cooperation, and sharing of ideas and culture through the movement of people and the internet.

It is an age of integration, mixing with and joining in this global society where anything or anyone has the potential to grow.

And in this fast-paced world, only one virus caused the world to slow down and stop.

Economies went into recession, land, air, and sea travels have become limited to the transport of food and medical supplies; some schools and other businesses have closed down; worship and other group activities have been prohibited; people were confined to their homes for an indefinite period until it’s safe to go out. A global pandemic caused the world to change.

On the Frontline with Covid-19 All over the world, essential workers like doctors, nurses, supermarket workers, delivery people, police, journalists, drivers, and teachers have become the key workers who have been keeping the country going.

They all contribute to the national effort to get everyone out of the crisis. There is though, one fatal flaw, a lot of health workers all over the world died because of two things: first is negligence, as richer nations claimed, and second is because they were badly equipped, as poorer nations claimed.

Bad decisions were made and most of the governments around the world wasted time.

It was clear that a lot had not been prepared during the pandemic. As poorer countries struggle to stop the spread of the virus within their population, richer countries condemn and ridicule them, while doing nothing to protect their own. The spread of the virus caused the death of almost a quarter of the world’s population.

Operation Shutdown As cases of infected people grew,

mandatory lockdown orders had proliferated around the world. This led to a pandemic driven flight of city dwellers to the countryside. People grew weary of being caged in a small apartment; they knew that restaurants and other venues that made city life worthwhile will soon be closed.

The policy response to stop the spread of the virus has crashed the economy. As coronavirus shuts down the world, economies stagnated with the decline in economic activity. It succumbed to the damage from Covid-19 – it went into recession.

It had affected almost every sector of the world’s economy - services, production, and construction, the major drivers of growth were all affected. This may have been one of the toughest recessions in centuries.

Two Meters Apart and A World Away A life on lockdown ushered in a new age where the wearing of face masks, face shields, gloves, and observing social distancing became the new norm. This has been key to battling coronavirus success.

Experts warned that the virus may be about to target the elders and medically vulnerable people. The virus’ virulence and its power to isolate us had unintended consequences - we have to cope up with the pain of trying to protect a loved one by staying away.

The Wonders of Lockdown Under strict nationwide lockdown regulations life became virtual. Self-isolation does not have to be isolating. To keep connected, conference and social media apps like Zoom, Skype, FaceTime, and WhatsApp became widely used because video calls are a great way to stay in touch. Thanks to technology, our broadband was able to provide a lifeline in this time of crisis.

People did not let the lockdown get them down. With the help of a PC and a decent broadband connection, one can stay close to family and friends and enjoy the myriad

REFLECTIONS

distractions that technology offers.

Beauty in the Time of the Pandemic Covid-19 became a catalyst for change.

This pandemic had been a turning point to a new normal, a beginning of a new age, and crisis like this one does not merely test societies but reorder them and sometimes, to the good.

The upside of the pandemic showed its impact on the planet. With roads empty, the chirping of birds filled our surroundings.

A drop in global carbon emission will help in stopping the planet from heating by more than 1.5 degrees, and with lower air pollution, a new greener planet suddenly seems within reach.

This pandemic also made people more responsible. Civil servants are themselves pushing an agenda to be more citizenfocused. Many have been learning the right system of leadership when it comes to decision-making by bringing into mind what the public needs - listening at a much deeper level.

It also taught an important lesson for governments worldwide to learn from other nation’s experiences and adapt ideas for their own countries and keeping in mind as to where good ideas can come from.

And with life in isolation, where weeks seems like decades, people learned to appreciate what is more important in life.

Money and material things lost their value, relationships mattered more, and incredible stories of kindness and bravery about real heroes around the world became everyone’s inspiration.

A quest for a vaccine also united people together. Researchers all over the world are doing everything, using what science offers, to help in this battle against the coronavirus.

Countries started working with one another for a cure. People are truly hopeful, and this shot of hope broke down barriers, people all over the world started giving and caring saying “We heal as one. We’re all in this together.”

Rebuilding the World After Covid-19 To thrive in a world of unknowns, we need to embrace uncertainty and despite the negative impact this pandemic brought, it changed things, and the world, in important ways. Slowly, we will see the light after the darkest hour. Slowly, we will be rebuilding the world.

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“ALAY-SAKRIPISYO PARA SA MADLA AT SA ATING BANSA”

by Maria Joy Tala V. Salamat

“B

akit mo piniling tumulong o makiisa sa ating frontliner? Ano sa tingin mo ang magiging benepisyo nito para saiyo?”

- Lloyd Lloyd, Araw-araw ay masaya kong minumulat ang aking mga mata, habang nakikita ko ang matatamis na ngiti ng bawat madla na parang mga walang problemang dala-dala. Kaya ng pumutok ang krisis na COVID-19 (COrona VIrus Disease 2019) tila panibagong hamon nanaman ngayong umaga. Walang salita ang makakapag- larawan kung gaano kahirap ang ating nararanasan. Maaaring sa iba mahirap, sa iba sakto lang at sa iba naman wala lang. Lingid sa kabatiran ng marami na ang ganitong sitwasyon ay ating mararanasan.

Bilang isang mag-aaral, gusto ko lamang tumulong sa ating kababayan, sa mamamayan, sa kapwa ko Filipino sapagkat naniniwala ako na sa simpleng pagbubulontaryo ay makatutulong ako sa milyon-milyong tao sa ating bansa. Ipinanganak siguro ako na may pagmamahal sa kapwa, ang taong mayawa, at ang taong walang tinawag kundi ang

TAME FEARS AND SHAPE UP

by Alicia V. Dorado

photo courtesy independentuk

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xcitability is a normal response by the body’s nervous system. The brain allows behaviors to change appropriately in response to various stimuli. One particular and timely stimulus, is this pandemic the world is battling with – CoVID-19. It is completely understandable that some people may panic and be anxious, when dealing with or thinking about this public health challenge. To counteract anxiety, the body tries to adapt through several ways. These adaptive mechanisms must be honed, especially in this time of crisis. The key is to make the nervous system an ally, instead of an enemy. Here are some pointers how: 1. Accept the problem. Do not deny that there is something to be fearful of or be anxious about. Acceptance is the first and a vital step in every problem solving and crisis management.

2. Convert anxiety into productivity. Immerse into activities which can help banish anxiety to replace an uneasy state of mind.

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pangalan ng ating mahal na Panginoon.

Ang maging isa sa mga frontliner ay hindi ko masasabing madali; ikaw ay dapat may dedikasyon at paninindigan sapagkat ang tao ay may sari-sariling pananaw o opinyon sa buhay.

Wala akong nais na kapalit sa aking ginagawa dahil noong ito’y aking mapagdesisyonan ay ipinasok ko na sa aking isipan na ito ay bukas sa aking kalooban at ang hinahangad ko lang ay ang tumulong at hindi maging isang balakid sa lipunan. Ang maging isang anak ng Public Servant sa tingin ko ay nakatatak na sa aking buhay na maging “Ako’y hindi pinuno para pabayaan kayo, ako’y mamumuno para tulungan kayo”.

Saludo ako sa mga frontliner sapagkat nakatatak na sa aming puso’t isipan ang paglingkuran ang mamamayan at ang ating bayan.

3. Replace fear with laughter. Emotions could be temporary.

Laughing at times, releases endorphins, a happy hormone that invigorates. Remember the things and memories that bring happiness.

4. Make fear a weapon. Remember that fear is a storeroom for wisdom. Repeated exposure to the same stimulus can help anxiety or fear to subside. As the saying goes, “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger”.

5. Exercise regularly. The body works as a complex unit in unison. Improving the respiratory and circulatory systems’ functions, through exercise, enhances the coping mechanism of the nervous system as well. Exercise can bring a person into focus and make him feel more capable.

6. Eat healthy. A healthy diet will not only sustain the body’s stamina but will also lift up emotions and improve total wellbeing.

7. Remain calm. One cannot always control what is in the outside but can be in control of what goes within himself.

Don’t start the day with doubts and fears, for where these are, faith disappears.

8. Be grateful. Learn to appreciate. Own an attitude of wanting to give rather than receive, especially if personal resources still abound.

9. Look for the silver lining. Learn to get the best lesson out of a bad situation. Think positive. Be hopeful.

10. See the situation in another angle. Weeding out biases and prejudices reduces expectations and flattens apprehensions and other untoward behaviors.

When anxious, people tend to view things negatively. Learn to stay positive and live each day the best way possible. Believe that “ this, too, shall pass”. Trust, have faith and walk fearlessly with God!

• Ciencia Y Virtud│Second Issue 2019-2020 • REFLECTIONS

A MAN WHOSE LOVE IS OLD

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by Iara Patricia Escober

rom a long and winding road Where legends and myths untold Filled with unfathomable cold Lies a man whose heart is gold

A decade when things’ still bold He offered her his sweetest ode Down to their modest abode Tries a man whose heart is gold And all of those surreals, unload Traded with verities, behold!

No “her” to be found, nothing but a code Cries a man whose heart is gold He then goes to a steep wold Reminisce their memories with mode Fixed his shattered heart with a lode Dies a man whose love is old photo courtesy gatienza

SHOVE

by Ranielle Almira M. Agripa

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hen push comes to shove, Triumphant against all my resistance I’ll be falling down the cliff of oblivionBlaspheming gravity, Falling among the jagged rocks of insanity, Boring holes into my skin-deep, deep, deep within.

I’ll be falling, speeding beyond my control, Rolling upon the steepest slope.

The impending doom will wait for me Like the sun waits for the moon To rest its magnificent gloryThen I’ll fall, fall, fall into the sea.

And I’ll drown in the blink of an eye, The water filling my lungs Slowly, slowly, pain devouring me.

Yet contrary to all these, There, with the sea overcoming me, I will find peace, finally, finally, finally. photo courtesy gatienza

POETRY

• Second Issue 2019-2020│Ciencia Y Virtud •

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DIGMAAN NG KASALUKUYANG HENERASYON

by Christine Joyce A. Nakar

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alang ingay sa kapaligiran, Gumagaling mga ulap, dagat at damo sa sakit ng nakaraan Tila tahimik ang labas ngunit hinahanap ang kapayapan Ngayon nasasadlak sa gyera ang sangkatauhan May digmaan ang kasalukuyang henerasyon Hindi putok ng baril o lagapak ng granada ang kayang tumugon.

May digmaan ang kasalukuyang henerasyon Medisina ang sagot sa katawan ay makapaghihilom Sa digmaan ng kasalukuyang henerasyong ito Ang kalabang hindi nakikita nalibot halos buong mundo Ngunit aking napansin sa digmaan ng kasalukuyang henerasyon Kasabay nang mabilis na pagkalat ng sakit Ay ang pagsasalin-salin ng takot, gulo, pangamba at galit

HOURGLASS

by Pamela Beatrix M. Reyes

Sa katunayan Marami na ang nagsabi, Masyado nang mahirap ang naging simula ng taon Tila marami na ang mga matang lumuha Mga delubyong buhay ay kinuha Sa iba’t ibang lupain malakas ang pagyanig Kaya’t sabi ng marami, “tama na, masyado nang masakit” Ngunit paano kung ang mga pangyayaring ito at ang kasalukuyang digmaan Ang magbabalik sa atin sa Kanyang paanan?

Paano kung ang kinahaharap nating laban Ang magtuturo sa atin kung paano muling tawagin ang Kanyang pangalan?

Kung paanong ang sangkatauhan ay tinuturuang magpakumbaba Na sa pagtatagpo ng mga palad at pagyuko ng mga ulo ay ang

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once vibrant life Gone with the wind Mother nature is healing But human existence is fleeting And like an hourglass the sands of time will soon run out like light bulbs attached to a ceiling.

A simple poem may just be enough To express what I really want For this pandemic to go off in a huff And people can start now to rebuff I know a wish like that is not easy Like following a mother’s plea so dearly Frontliners around the world are fighting for our safety And here we are treating them dirty I realized that even though we are smart Not everyone has a heart Stop acting like doctors Saying this is just a flu Where have you been living

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• Ciencia Y Virtud│Second Issue 2019-2020 • POETRY

panalanging may pagtitiwala Kaya’t talunin natin ang takot ng pananampalataya H’wag tayong magpagapos sa pangamba dahil tayo ay malaya Muli, pananampalataya Sapagkat kung gaano kataas ang langit mula sa mundo Gayun din kataas ang Kanyang mga plano Kung gaano kalawak ang distansya mula silangan hanggang kanluran Gayun din kalawak ang pagmamahal N’ya sa sangkatauhan Kaya’t kapit lang Bagama’t mahaba ang gabi at dilim Bagama’t mahirap itong lakbayin Inaanyayahan N’ya taong manatili sa Kanyang lilim Dahil ang mga natamong sugat ay Kanyang hihilumin Kaya’t sa digmaang ito, patuloy tayong lumaban, sama-samang manalangin Pasasaan ba at ang araw ay sisikat na muli para sa atin Inside of an igloo?

So do me a favor Before you start feeling braver Try putting yourself in their shoe And see how long before you withdrew Violence and Politics started to mix Playing with our minds with these little tricks Why don’t they just conform for peace And everyone can agree for a cease Solving this pandemic should be on top of the list Not playing with guns and who’s it Death is inevitable Making our faith questionable Starting to point fingers now I see Thinking it’ll bring them back oh yippee I’ll end this now with a prayer Offering it to our frontliner May you continue to be a slayer, A hero and our savior. photo courtesy pinterest

MAPAGBIRONG MUNTING BUHAY

by Noemi De Jesus

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ino nga ba ang nakakaalam Hindi ko rin alam kung san nagsimula Itong sinasabi nating sakuna Dito, dyan o sa kung saang Lupalop man na bansa Sakit na sa ating pandinig ay bago pa nga Humigit kumulang libo-libong di matiyak ang naturang napinsala Sa dakong timog, kanluran, silangan at hilaga Alapaap na nabalot ng takot Sa panahong kailanma’y di malilimot Sintomas na walang katumbas kundi lungkot Sa kisapmata ay kamatayan ang siyang dulot Depresyon sa bansa hindi lamang ekonomikal Maging sa negatibong kalusugang pisikal Sumasabog na asteroyd sa taong emosyonal Samu’t samung isipin animu’y nasa mental Na sa panahon ngayo’y tinatawag na New Normal

Lungkot, takot, at pighati sa buhay na nawaglit Di mo mababatid kung hindi ikaw o kamag-anak ang siyang nasawi Bagong bayani ang pagbati sa ‘king lahi Ngunit kaagaw ay ang hukay na sandali Katagang obligado bawal magreklamo at ilabi Di maani-aninag itong kabatalya Kaya mga sandali ay di sapat para sa pamilya Dahil abot langit ang milya milyang distansya Sa aming pagmamahalan at ligaya Lumipas mga panahong di sila kapiling at sa distansya ay di naging masaya Mainam na kalagaya’y maituturing pa ring biyaya Pagkat pasakit at kamataya’y kanilang nadaya Limitadong galaw panlipunan Di maaaring kumaliwa at kumanan Pumaganon at pumaganyan Ikaw ay napapaligiran ng iba’t ibang tarangkahan Walang ibang daan kundi tungo sa tahanan

Mga karanasang kailanma’y di maisasantabi Aking nakasalamuhang mga taong mapagmalaki Inabuso kapwa nila tao at inapi Panahong iilan lamang ang may silbi Letrang iiwanan sa mundong mapaghiganti Salamat sa ‘yo at napagtanto ko kung ako ba ay naging mabuti Subukin man ng kalupitan at buti Kailanma’y ilaw ko’y di mapupundi Dios ang bahala sa sinumang mapang-api Sa larangan ng tula ako’y nagpapaalala Magpasalamat sa Dios dahil may hininga Pahiram sa ‘yo sa akin at sa atin sinta Magkalayong mundo ng isa’t isa Panginoon ang tulay sa ating mga pangamba Huwag mag-alinlangan sa ating buhay Pagtitiwala sa May Likha gawing walang humpay Dios na puso ay dalisay tanging kaagapay Mananatiling magpakailanman sa ‘yo Siya ay tunay photo courtesy gavi.org images

MALAYANG PAGPILI

by Maria Joy Tala V. Salamat

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a ating mundo pagkatao mo ba ay kilala mo?

Tama ba at mali ay iyo pang natatanto?

Alam mo pa bang isagot ang hindi at oo?

Tayo’y magkakaiba pero bakit ang pananaw tila’y nakabase sa isa Huwag tayong magpalamon sa teknolohiya, masugid na taga subaybay sa facebook status nila Kaalama’y ating paigtingin, huwag puro bugso ng damdamin Sarili’y ating gisingin dahil walang katapusang hamon na naman ang dadating Sa paglipad ng Agila ang kalayaa’y dala-dala Nasa pugad ang saya Kalayaang pagpiling tinatamasa

photo courtesy fredericForest_Lancome

GO AWAY, COVID-19

COVID-19

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by Michael A. Roque

by Carlos A. Ferrer

ever thought I’d see a time, Where I would see myself in a horror story These happened before you know, In a movie “Contagion” in 2011

he world is shaken In an immeasurable intensity All eyes dilate everybody gets agitated

Now in 2020, the movie’s plot is our reality, People find themselves infected And the streets are mostly empty of life As if the entire world stopped turning!

All we can do now is hope Hope in that we can get through this Hope in the return to normalcy We shall not be defeated by this plague!

POETRY

It’s a storm that affects all This situation takes its toll It’s indeed has the power of a crown The defenseless each day is taken down Everyone revolts, finding cure, finding answers But we all know that sun will rise The light is in the end Kings and Queens may reign But crown rusts and people will prevail

• Second Issue 2019-2020│Ciencia Y Virtud •

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BY BENDEL GABRIEL GARCIA

NORMALCY

“Everyone seems so eager to bring everything back to normal. But going back to normal is different from making a new one. There are times that I wish we can never go back to the way things were before, but make a new one, instead. We are given a chance for a change. To end the negative ideas of violence, greed, inequity, toxic positivity and such thing in the world we have normalized for a long time, and to stitch a new hope for a better world. - A new sense of normalcy.

Normal but is better than before.�