Urian Publication Magazine Volume 62, Issue 01 - August 2023 - January 2024

SCHOOL YEAR 2023-2024

Editor-in-Chief

Associate Editor

Feature Editor

Opinion Editor

Creatives Head

Managing Editor

Head Photojournalist

Technical Adviser Writers

Kyle Anthony S. Ong Yiu

Ozzy C. Alaba

Lovely Jean G. Padaz

Kyle Adrian N. Llego

Jasper Lloyd S. Mission

Stephanie Joy F. Taghap

Harrison Richard M. Deutch

Grace B. Lumacang

Christine Marie P. Barba

Danford Jose U. Lopez

April Joy G. Dinanlagan

Lyza Ann Obanil

Photojournalists

Carlson Ace Mata

Julius Poliseno A. Bohol

Ronald I. Yu

Jun Rey Pitogo

Abby Angelo Auxtero

Dan Vergil Felicitas

Christopher Doliguez

Stephen John Galagar

Creatives

Cielo Marie Bactil

Maria Gwyneth Guibao

Urielle Cadena

Faye Marie Torralba

John Nicholas J. Marcera

Christian Pabas II

CJ Pasion

The Urian Publication is the Official Father Saturnino Urios

The office is an independent and interpret events truthfully, responsibly abiding by the Philippine Ethics.

The Urian Publication’s official premises of Father Saturnino Francisco St.

ABOUT ABOUT

Father Saturnino Urios University, Filipino, Catholic, diocesan, envisions a community committed to pursue the wholeness

EDITOR’S NOTE

ABOUT US

Official Student Publication of Urios University

independent body mandated to cover truthfully, comprehensively, and Philippine Journalists Code of Ethics.

official domicile is within the Saturnino Urios University, San Butuan City.

University, a lay empowered, diocesan, educational institution community of men and women the work of Christ for the of society.

Before this semester began, the publication’s staff consisted only of six people: An editor-in-chief, an associate editor, a feature editor, a correspondent, a photojournalist, and our beloved technical adviser. As of the release of this magazine, we are twenty-seven members strong and have reached far more than any of us could have ever imagined. We began this year with one goal in heart: to tell stories that needed to be heard. Not because they were entertaining or enticing, but because no one else could tell them. No one else would tell them.

However, this improvement did not come without problems. Qualms were evident among the subjects of criticism and scrutiny as we began to fulfill the duties of a student publication. The misconstrued notion of what the purpose of a student publication is has led to unwarranted hostility. Their misguided definition of fairness wherein they expect the publishing of both sides even when the other only spews blatant lies has perverted their perception of criticism as an attack instead of a call for accountability.

Many have tried to silence us. Many have tried to suppress us. Many have tried to filter the voice of the students that the publication is duty-bound to represent. Running low on sweat, blood, and tears, we were fueled instead by the dedication and the passion to tell stories that the world needed to hear. Every word, every visual, and every page is fueled by the same fire that led to the publication growing from a mere 6 to now 27.

As you go through these pages, we hope you keep in mind that behind every piece of news, behind every article, and behind every image, is a story that longs to be heard. Behind every story is a side unheard and behind every unheard side is an injustice that needs to be addressed.

After years of inactivity and with seemingly no direction, the current members of the Urian Publication were left to pick up the pieces the pandemic placed us in. The publication, after careful reflection, has decided to look forward just as we have looked back. This year’s Urian is both a tribute to all that has come before and a signifier of what’s to come.

NEWS

Urian Spirit

POLITICS & GOVERNANCE

• FSUU Commission on Elections pushes through with questioned elections

• Appointments from the Executive Council

URIAN INSIGHTS

UNIVERSITY DAYS

EDITORIAL SECTION

• Publications and Page Postings: Where Do We Draw the Line?

• Striking a Balance: Navigating Risks, Trust, and Objectivity in Modern Journalism

• Navigating Post-Pandemic Education: Assessing Blended Education in an Unequal Landscape

• 3 Years Later: Re-assessing the Zero Plastic Policy

COMICS

Urios in the Year 3000: Late Again TRANSPARENCY SECTION

SPORTS SECTION

• NP lady tankers rule Urian Games ‘23 swimming with dominant run

• Ching Salcedo Dominates in UDays Swimming Competition FSUU trips on dominant XU in Hardcourt Showdown Beyond the Hoop: A Reflection on Priorities

URIAN ACHIEVERS

• TUAV Shines in Numerous Esports Competitions

• Urian Debate Society Gains Ground in Regional Debating Tilts

• Hack4Gov: Pushing the Future of Cybersecurity Forward

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

• Indigenous Culture Exhibit: Collaboration with Eagle Foundation

• FSUU conducts AI Course Creation training for the College and Basic Education faculty

• AI: A Societal Boom or Bane?

LYA Assembly Strengthens Bond of Agusan Youth Leaders

WRITTEN BY HARRISON DEUTCH

Fruitful sessions made way on the 11th of August 2023, at Hotel Oázis, Butuan City as youth leaders from Agusan Del Norte and Agusan Del Sur gathered at a Local Youth Assembly. The LYA, sponsored by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and The Asia Foundation, involved local stakeholders from various offices.

Several student leaders from Father Saturnino Urios participated in the activity. Louise Stefan Cumba from the FSUU Executive Council, Harrison Deutch from the Urian Debate Society, Jed Leyson from the FSUU General Science Society, Jarie Montecino from the Urian Arena Vanguards, and Khen Ashley Palima from QUATRO.

The Urian youth leaders were able to speak their minds and share their diverse inputs, aligning with the goal of the assembly. Collaboration resonated among the newly built network of Caraganon youth leaders from various sectors such as youth organizations, campus organizations, student governments, and SK councils.

To push forward the advocacies of the local coalitions and embrace cooperation between youth leaders, the assembly organizers prepared several group activities. They intended to assess the youth leaders’ abilities in problem-solving and project development. The youth leaders creatively presented their proposals using Lego bricks, hand-made diagrams, and the most important resource as a leader— their voice.

FSUU Student Startup Bootcamp Empowers Mind for Innovation, Entrepreneurship

WRITTEN BY STEPHANIE TAGHAP

To develop students’ creativity and entrepreneurship skills, Father Saturnino Urios University hosted a one-day student start-up boot camp. The event, hosted by FSUU’s Molders of Entrepreneurs and Successful Innovators for Sustainability (MOESIS) was held on October 14, 2023 as part of the preparations for the conduct of the 122nd University Days Pitching Competition.

The boot camp served as an invitation for young minds to embrace innovation and entrepreneurship and value sustainability. It was also the university’s declaration of its dedication to hone young minds into visionary leaders who can reshape the world for the better.

Leading up to the pitching workshop, Dr. Eltimar Casto Jr., the Project Director, and Maffi Titoy, a Business Administration Program Faculty, delved into the Business Model Canvas, enabling students to formulate comprehensive business strategies. To start the boot camp, Engr. Orlando Ritchie Natonton, a faculty member of the Engineering and Technology Program, introduced the nature of start-ups. A follow-up discussion by Mr. Melquizedek Borbon, Project Research and Development Head of MOESIS - FSUU TBI, discussed customer discovery and the need to understand the target audience.

As resident Project Entrepreneur of MOESIS - FSUU TBI, Ms. Ara Calo, broke down the concepts behind a value proposition, pushing students to craft solutions that resonated with the world. Dr. Nephi Romano dived into the idea of a Minimum Viable Product and emphasized the crucial need for adaptability.

FSUU Promotes Altruism, Bayanihan Spirit on GK Build Conduct

WRITTEN BY LOVELY PADAZ

Father Saturnino Urios University once again showed its commitment to promoting altruism and the Bayanihan spirit through the annual Gawad Kalinga community build as part of the 122nd University Days on October 25. The event was a partnership between FSUU and the City Housing Office of Butuan City to build houses and multi-purpose educational facilities for the less fortunate.

During the University Days celebration, GK Build brought students, faculty members, nonteaching staff, volunteers, and several government agencies to spread the value of camaraderie through building houses.

Ms. Easther Badajos, the university’s GK Youth Coordinator, stressed that the event’s goal was to impart altruism to the participants. It also paved the institution another opportunity for their students and staff to give back to the community and help the needy by building them houses.

Furthermore, the event was also a testament to the school’s commitment to promote social responsibility and create a positive impact in the community. The collaboration with the local government, which provided resources and expertise, helped the university achieve said goals. With these connections, the occasion shaped a chance for the Urian family to come together and make positive changes on their own simple way.

FSUU Commission on Elections pushes through with questioned elections

WRITTEN BY DANFORD LOPEZ & KYLE ONG YIU

ILLUSTRATION BY CIELO BACTIL

Despite several setbacks, the FSUU Commission on Elections pushed through with the conduct of the League of Campus Organizations elections and the elections of the yearlevel Mayors per program.

continue on p.3

COMELEC made notable changes to the election process, which now involved officers and representatives. This is contrary to the usual which involves presidents of recognized organizations and the facilitation of the previous LCO Chairperson.

In an interview with Noralyn A. Sangcaan, the current Commission on Elections Chairperson, she stated that presidents are already handling the highest position of their organizations. COMELEC did not want their responsibilities to overlap. When asked regarding the constitutional basis of the decision, she says that the constitution did not specify that it is not solely the presidents who are eligible as candidates for LCO Officer positions. She added that COMELEC was responsible for the elections—even if it wasn’t explicitly stated in the list of officers to be elected in Article II of the said constitution.

Another unconventional change included the positions elected. A Chairperson, Secretary-General, and Directors for Academic, Non-Academic, Fraternities and Sororities, and Religious Organizations were elected. This is opposed to the accustomed positions in the previous years which had a Vice Chairperson, Secretary, Treasurer, Auditor, and Public Relations Officer. Sangcaan cited that the decision for the positions was made as the constitution and by-laws in which the LCO operated over the past years were not ratified and recognized, thus, unconstitutional.

The inclusion of the Director of Religious Organizations, a position not specified in the constitution, was also addressed by the COMELEC Chairperson. She stated that the inclusion of the position was not a problem as religious organizations exist on campus. She added that the position is not in conflict with the current constitution— COMELEC’s decision to add a position was well within their rights and in terms of position-related matters, the COMELEC could be trusted.

Former president of Christ’s

Youth in Action Jovenice Alquizar, in an interview with the publication said that they chose not to renew their registration for this semester due to a lack of officers and members. On another perspective, Erin Amante, the LCO Chairperson for A.Y. 2021-2022 expressed that there is no urgency to elect the position due to lack of constituents. She also added that the discretion for decisions regarding religious orgs is under the Office of Religious Affairs.

Psyche O. Ayado, the previous LCO Chairperson for the last academic year also expressed concerns about the abrupt decisions. She cautioned that it would negatively affect the workflow and operation of the LCO. She believed that it would be a problem considering that they would no longer have their own secretary, treasurer, and auditor which are necessary for the operations of the League.

Additionally, several previous chairpersons of the FSUU Commission on Elections expressed dissatisfaction with the conduct of the present administration. They claim that the current COMELEC overstepped their bounds with the facilitation and overseeing of the LCO elections which is not indicated as part of their responsibilities in the Election Code. They also expressed concerns over the facilitation of the mayoral elections per program which are also not included in the election code.

In response, the current COMELEC chairperson asserted that they were not overstepping as they were only following the constitution. Sangcaan adds that in actuality, the lapses were in the previous COMELEC administrations when it came to the implementation and interpretation of their duties which they corrected. Nevertheless she hopes that her sentiments would not be taken negatively by her predecessors.

As of the moment, there has not yet been a resolution on the complaints and the elected individuals have already been recognized and are in active duty.

... the current COMELEC overstepped their bounds with the facilitation and overseeing of the LCO elections which is not indicated as part of their responsibilities in the Election Code. “

FSUU COMMISSION ON ELECTIONS

Previous Chairpersons

Appointment from the Executive Council

FSUU SSG Institutionalizes Commission on Good Governance

To ensure a just and secure future for the student body, the FSUU SSG institutionalized the creation of a Commission on Good Governance as a way to address the systematic, institutional, and foundation gaps in the student government.

The push for the creation of the commission was spearheaded by Carl Jebby Daug, former Special Consultant on Student Government Operations and now Head of the Commission on Good Governance. The CGG was established through the Student Government Act 2324-0001 and signed by the SSG president Christian John Ibe.

According to Daug, the main role of the Commission on Good Governance is to provide checks and balances in the student government while ensuring the general welfare of the students. The commission will also look to push agendas on effective, efficient, proactive, and responsive government for the FSUU community.

The commission has fiscal and operational autonomy, wherein it can hear and adjudicate cases, impose sanctions, provide legal interpretation, and provide rules and regulations within its jurisdiction. In terms of oversight powers, the commission is given the powers to conduct investigations and recommend policies, strategies, and actions. The commission also exercises regulatory powers, conducting monitoring and evaluation, performance analysis and assessment, and enforcing its decisions.

In terms of expectations, Daug iterates that while there are no guarantees for good governance, the commission will pursue all efforts to

continue the fight. “We can’t guarantee good governance, but what we can guarantee to everybody is that we will fight for good governance every day,” Daug said.

As the university continues to stride with a progressive world, the CGG establishes a just and secure future for the political sphere in the university. Its job is a challenging one, but an important one nonetheless to ensure the welfare of students.

FSUU Executive Council Appoints Pivotal Positions in Student Government

As part of the progressive moves of the FSUU Executive Council, Executive President John Christian Ibe appointed three pivotal positions in the Student Government for A.Y. 2023-2024. The appointed officials were: Jean Fritzie Maaño, a 3rd-year BS Management Accounting student who was appointed as the chairperson of the Commission on Student Rights; Joshua F. Batac, a 1st-year AB Economics student who was appointed as Secretary of Information; and, Carl Jebby Daug, a 1styear AB Political Science Student who was appointed Special Consultant on Student Government Operations.

The appointments were part of the decision to improve the services of the student government. The offices of the Commission on Student Rights and Secretary of Information are specified in the Revised 2009 Constitution and Bylaws of the Supreme Student Government. However, these offices have been inactive for the past several years. On the other hand, the Special Consultant on Student Government Operations came to be as a result of Executive Order 002 for A.Y. 20232024 by the president.

When asked about their appointments and their positions, each officer had different answers. For Maaño, her acceptance of the position pushed her to ensure that as chairperson of the Commission on Student Rights, her priority would be to protect the rights of every student in the university. However, she also clarified that the office had no prosecutorial power to initiate legal actions against any party. Instead, their power is only investigative, after which they shall submit their findings with suitable recommendations to the office of the Director of Student and Alumni Affairs.

Batac, who admitted he had difficulty adjusting to the new environment as a 1styear student, believes that he had been appointed to the position because of his work ethic, honesty, transparency, and competence. He asserts that his struggles won’t be an excuse nor a reason for the inefficiency of the Secretary of the Information.

Daug on the other hand, who is no newbie to the inner workings of student governments as a youth leader, believes that he was appointed to the position due to his work outside of the academe. His experience spans from youth organizations, to local governance advocacies, and local special bodies. He explains that the position’s mandate is mostly to help the president transform student government operations and ensure efficiency. However, he also notes that his contributions hinge on whether or not the president takes his advice.

While the moves are progressive, a lot of criticism has stemmed from the appointments. Most of them point toward Batac and Daug, who are both first-year students. The sentiments express concern regarding both their capabilities and their lack of experience. Both freshmen had only been Urians for a couple of months before their appointment.

While the moves are progressive, a lot of criticism has stemmed from the appointments. Most of them point toward Batac and Daug, who are both first-year students. The sentiments express concern regarding both their capabilities and their lack of experience.

What improvements would you like to see in the next university events?

“I am satisfied, but I would like to see a pageant during the next university days.” BSBA- FM – I

“Less technical problems during programs.” AB-C-II

“I’d like to see more preparation for the events. As a sports coordinator, we had to experience the lack of preparation and coordination of each committee as things like the IRRs kept getting delayed and the final list of events wasn’t ready until a few days before the actual events” BSN – IV

Are you satisfied with the performance of your Program Student Government?

“Yes I have, their efforts were clearly seen and a lot of hard work and dedication came to their performance as student government” BSN-III

“No. The way they dealt with the cheer dance issue was very problematic and there are other circulating issues regarding other officers and even the governor until now” BSMA – III

“Yes. I really like they know how to handle the situation of every student or in every events coming on university or in our department. I really appreciate the effort!” BSCE – I

Are you satisfied with the performance of the Executive Council?

“For the most part, I am. There have been clear controversies this year, Slip ups have been made and some members of the executive council have not been able to fulfill their roles so to say. I agree with the publications insight written in one article about the lack of professionalism on their part. I believe that not all members of the executive deserve their position as they are not able to fulfill their respective roles at all. However, not all is bad with regards to their performance. Despite all of these issues I think they where able to provide the students with a fun and memorable university days” BSN – IV

“Semi-satisfied. Issues left and right, concerns were not well-taken care of lack of accountability at times, and last minute decisions. However, they handled the events just fine and a lot of people had fun so that’s that” BSE-E-III

WRITTEN BY CHRISTINE BARBA

FSUU’s Mercado ni Urios 2023: Showcasing Student Entreprenurial Skills and Creativity

The opening of the Mercado ni Urios was a significant achievement for FSUU’s 122nd University Days. The event provided a platform for student entrepreneurship and reflected the university’s commitment to providing its students with the best facilities and opportunities for their holistic development.

Rev. Fr. James Michael Abellanosa, the Director for Student and Alumni Affairs, led the ribbon-cutting and blessing ceremony alongside other university officials. The event featured booths from various organizations in the university, displaying their skills and creativity. Arts, crafts, and perfumes from the Psychology Society, Engineering Merchandise and bracelets from the FSUU - Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers, pastries from the FSUU - Junior Finance Executives, gaming services and anime merchandise from students of the Computer Studies Program, as well as coffee booths were spread throughout the Mercado. The stalls were located in front of the FSUU Main College Building, and were open daily until 9 in the evening.

When asked about their goals for their respective booths, Cherrish Burdeos, a member of the Psychology Society said, “Para mas mailhan ang among org kay pioneering batch man mi nga psychology sa Urios, so dili kaayo known ang among org.”

Meanwhile, students from the Computer Studies Program shared that their target was to let everyone, especially students from CSP themselves, experience gaming, as not everyone has ever had the chance to play gaming consoles like the PS4.

They offered console rentals for only Php 60 per hour during the event. Most products in the Mercado ni Urios 2023 were sold at Php 200 and below to ensure that they would be affordable.

When asked about the struggles they have faced since the booths opened, most of them mentioned the weather. The Mercado ni Urios concluded with a bang, marking the end of the three-day display of entrepreneurial endeavors. The event was a resounding success, with a huge turnout of students, staff, and visitors. The stalls offered a wide range of delectable services and the games and activities provided fun and excitement for everyone. Mercado ni Urios fostered a sense of community and camaraderie of FSUU.

WRITTEN

BY

CHRISTINE BARBA

Tourism and Hospitality Young Managers and Executives Society (THYMES) of FSUU hosted the Merienda Craze DIY Edition and Cocktail for a Cause at the CBE grounds as part of 122nd University Days on October 26 and 27, 2023.

The event, spearheaded by Nicole Aliño, aimed to provide a unique experience for students, allowing them to create their own “meriendas” and mix their drinks. The festivities included a diverse range of engaging activities such as karaoke, face painting, a photo booth, beer pong, a freedom wall, live music, and more, catering to a variety of entertainment preferences.

Beyond the celebration, the event had a philanthropic purpose. All proceeds were

ETP, PIIE host Haunted House Merienda Craze: DIY Edition and Cocktail for a Cause

WITH JOY OR WITHOUT? - MIDTOWN

WRITTEN BY APRIL

DINANLAGAN

The Engineering and Technology Program catered to the horror fans of the university as it organized its own haunted house in collaboration with the Philippine Institute of Industrial Engineering (PIIE) in CB 114 as part of the University Days celebration. The booth, which was open for all, even outsiders, operated from October 25 to 28.

After a bland turnout last academic year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2023 Haunted House made a triumphant return, captivating everyone who dared to enter with its thrilling and make someone’s spirits soar with excitement.

dedicated to crafting personal hygiene kits for distribution to Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) at Butuan City Jail, selected as this year’s beneficiaries. This initiative aims to address challenges faced by the community in accessing basic necessities. It reflects the organizers’ commitment to human dignity and well-being, even within the carceral setting.

The turnover of the personal hygiene kits was scheduled on November 22, 2023, with a target distribution of 200 PDLs as their target. The event not only added meaning to the celebration but also underscored the dedication of HM/TM CES students, faculty members, and officers to infuse enjoyment with an altruistic spirit, thereby making a positive impact on the community.

Excitement spread through the atmosphere of the Haunted House as eager Urians and visitors willingly endured the lengthy queue that stretched from the College Building lobby to the entrance. Even before stepping inside, the chilling screams emanating from within could be heard by those patiently waiting in line.

Up until the last day, the haunted house was a resounding success as more students and visitors still hoped to experience the frightful attraction. Students and visitors alike are looking forward to a similar booth for the next University Days celebration.

WRITTEN BY LOVELY PADAZ

Empowering Lives and Promoting Justice through Legal Assistance

In a notable demonstration of commitment to public service, the College of Law at Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) organized a Legal Assistance event at SM Butuan City from September 20 to 21, 2023. This initiative aimed to provide significant legal guidance and support to community members facing various legal concerns.

Law student Khiarra Tacubao found the experience enlightening and awe-inspiring, emphasizing the gratification of applying classroom knowledge to real-life situations. The event proved impactful, offering assistance to individuals like a security guard at SM navigating the complexities of applying for Solo Parent benefits. The Legal Aid program, part of FSUU’s initiative, provided settling support, enabling the guard to successfully secure the benefits she deserved.

The Legal Assistance event at SM Butuan City demonstrated the transformative power of legal aid, addressing immediate concerns while instilling confidence and relief in individuals’ lives. Students like Khiarra Tacubao and Ianna Quitayen deserve commendation for their selflessness and commitment to positive influence, highlighting FSUU’s College of Law’s commitment to nurturing socially conscious legal professionals.

In celebrating the success of the Legal Assistance event, we acknowledge FSUU’s College of Law for its invaluable contributions to empowering lives and fostering a more just and equitable society.

Beyond immediate legal aid, the event empowered the community and embodied the accessibility of knowledgeable and compassionate individuals willing to guide them through legal matters. The College of Law’s commitment to community engagement reflects its dedication to holistic education.

WRITTEN BY STEPHANIE TAGHAP

FSUU Community Unites for Health and Green Advocacy Through Annual Bike and Plant Event

In a heartwarming demonstration of community unity, the recent Bike and Plant at FSUU united Urians around a common goal of promoting local well-being and environmental awareness. The annual tradition, crafted to inspire healthier lifestyles and a commitment to ecological sustainability, seamlessly intertwined a bike excursion with a tree-planting initiative in Brgy. Anticala, Butuan City on October 22, 2023.

The primary objective was to motivate individuals to adopt healthier habits while instilling a sense of environmental responsibility. Participants joyfully navigated through picturesque routes during the bike ride, then actively participated in a treeplanting initiative, symbolizing their dedication to

personal health and environmental preservation.

Beyond local impact, the event aimed to make a broader difference. Proceeds from the gatherings were directed to the Care for the Taguibo Watershed initiative, supporting vital environmental conservation work in the area. By joining and registering, individuals not only enhanced their wellbeing but also played a direct role in safeguarding the local watershed.

The success of the event surpassed expectations, with participants wholeheartedly embracing the chance to exercise while communing with nature. Through the simple acts of pedaling and planting, FSUU showcased the collective strength of community action by making a positive environmental contribution.

WRITTEN BY DANFORD LOPEZ

NP illuminates the Night With Taylor Swift-Themed ’23 Novelty Show

The stars flickered in the night sky, as the moon struggled to beam its light through the clouds above the campus. The 122nd University Days celebration once again held one of its most anticipated events: The Novelty Show. The theme for the year was “Taylor Swift: The URIAN Era.”

The Nursing Program reigned supreme as true Swifties with their rendition of the album “Speak Now” in the competition that took place at the FSUU Main Gymnasium on the evening of October 26, 2023, as the participating programs electrified the crowd.

The competitors displayed their tenacity and courage in the cutthroat competition. They featured the worldwide phenom and Pop Royalty Taylor Swift and her various eras; the eras/albums ranged from Fearless (2008) up to Midnights (2022). Every program that took part in the competition displayed a wide range of abilities. For the chance to win gold, competitors created an extravaganza of costumes and props, showing off their enthusiastic dance moves, and even attempted some wobbly singing to get a laugh out of the viewers.

The night was filled with an illustrious ambiance of music and performances, with the Urian crowd screaming at the top of their lungs and shaking the bleachers. Indeed, The Novelty Show fire engulfed the gymnasium.

Highly regarded and esteemed judges presided over the programs, including Mr. Carlo Makiling, a licensed professional teacher and graduate of Caraga State University, Mr. Juan Jamolod IV, a licensed professional teacher and graduate of Caraga State University, and Ms. Alva Quijada, the chairwoman of judges, who is also a certified member of the BXU Swiftie Organization since 2008. The programs stood tall and gave it their all to pursue the favor of the judges. The judges’ experience ensured that the competition was reasonable and fair,

and the participants’ performances were astounding.

All programs demonstrated their bravery and tenacity, but only one emerged as the champion.

The Nursing Program’s performance, pegged on Taylor’s Speak Now (2010) album, yielded them the win. The Novelty Show displayed the abilities and inventiveness of the FSUU community. The night concluded as the music faded away and as the lights of the gymnasium dimmed. This year’s show was a night to be remembered.

WRITTEN BY LOVELY PADAZ

AP leaves a Lasting Impression in Hip Hop ‘23

As part of the progressive One of the events that highlighted the undeniable talents of the participating programs in singing and dancing during the 122nd University Days was the Hip Hop competition. The event was a huge success, with all eight programs in awe of the performances of their participants.

The audience was treated to an unforgettable day of music and dance, with each performance bringing something unique and special to the stage. The event was a true display of the talent and creativity of the students of the university. The participating programs put their best foot forward, impressing the judges and the audience with their exceptional skills.

The program that stood out was the

Accountancy Program, dominating the dance floor with their mind-blowing choreography. They wore taxi driver-inspired denim attire with white shirts and caps, and their synchronized moves electrified the crowd. Their performance in this year’s Hip-hop Competition was truly impressive, captivating the judges and the audience alike.

The event was a testament to the talent and creativity of the students of FSUU, as well as the university’s commitment to promoting social responsibility and excellence in the arts. It was a celebration of the diversity and richness of the university’s culture, exhibiting the many talents and skills of its students and its holistic pursuit of education in all aspects.

WRITTEN BY DANFORD LOPEZ

122nd UDays’ UNights: A Dazzle of Talent, Laughter, and Triumph

As the FSUU Main Gymnasium quivered in anticipation, the air buzzed with the energy of an excited crowd. The pinnacle of the 122nd University Days unfolded with a sea of eager students witnessing the grand finale of their university’s foundation celebration.

The week-long festivities peaked with FSUU’s University Night, an event that lived up to its promise. The atmosphere was electric as different programs showcased their boundless and creative talents in the Your Face Sounds Familiar competition and the highly anticipated Emblem Competition.

Executive Council President Christian John B. Ibe seat the tone with his welcome remarks, expressing gratitude to students, event coordinators, and staff for their unwavering support throughout the 122nd University Days. Alumnus Butuan City Vice-Mayor Law Fortun extended wishes for the event’s success, officially launching the culmination program with outstanding energy.

The Your Face Sounds Familiar competition was a crowd favorite, eliciting cheers and laughter from the audience. Performances from FLOW G (CSP), Russell Hitchcock (CJEP), and LIZZO (NP) entertained, but it was the Engineering and Technology Program’s rendition of global sensation Taylor Swift that stole the show, earning a staggering score of 91% and clinching the coveted gold.

In the Emblem competition, each program presented awe-inspiring costumes, battling for supremacy. The Criminal Justice Education Program (CJEP) emerged victorious, showcasing formidable knights and securing the gold amid stiff competition.

The event featured captivating performances from the Voice of Light Chorale (VOLC), highlighting the diverse vocal ranges of its talented members, along with electrifying dance routines from both the FSUU Dance Company and the popular local dance group G7. As the gymnasium pulsed with energy, and the crowd grew more anxious for the culmination, the event reached its thrilling conclusion.

The announcement everyone was waiting to hear, the results of which program would finally lay claim to the iron throne of Westeros, sucked the air out of the gymnasium as everyone went silent. Ultimately, it was the Nursing Program with 60 golds, 16 silvers, and 21 bronzes that was crowned overall champions.

WRITTEN BY LOVELY PADAZ

CJEP, Obejas claim Emblem Competition ‘23 throne

After four days of battling for the overall championship, the formidable knights of the Criminal Justice Education Program were able to capture the victory in one of the highly anticipated events of the annual University Days celebration, bringing them closer to their goal of securing another gold. The competition was intense, with each program giving their best performance in portraying their Game of Thrones-inspired costumes. Donning a red armor with gold lining, accompanied by a sword and shield, James Obejas of the Criminal Justice Education Program set the stage on fire with his performance. Obejas admitted that he utilized his arnis skills to conquer the competition and win the judges’ hearts, as he had previously been a Palaro player in the said field.

“Honestly, I was really determined that night because, in most competitions, the Criminal Justice program rarely places. So, I made

an effort to bring victory to our program,” he responded when asked about his motivation to win.

“I encouraged myself not to compare myself to others in the Criminal Justice Education Program so that I could boost my confidence and motivation. I want to regain the confidence of my fellow participants who have experienced defeat,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Business Administration Program took home the silver medal, leaving the audience in awe with their performance, while the Engineering and Technology Program secured the bronze.

The participants’ heart-felt eagerness and their deep devotion to their program propelled them to conquer the fear of the stage. Overwhelmed with disbelief, tears streamed down their faces upon hearing the announcement of the winners.

Publications and Page Postings:

Where Do We Draw The Line?

On October 19, 2023, The Urian Publication published an article on the disqualification of the Teacher Education Program and the Criminal Justice Education Program for IRR violations during the Call of Duty: Mobile match between the two programs for the 122nd University Days. The report included the sentiments of the involved parties regarding the facilitation of the game as well as the uncertainty of the Implementing Rules and Regulations. Minutes later, a post of similar nature was published by The URIAN Republic, informing the public of the disqualification of the programs. They also included that the committee on esports took a firm stance on the decision and that all teams participated in the IRR orientation. The post failed to acknowledge the sentiments of the participating teams who also complained about the facilitators of the game whom they claimed were allegedly unprepared and uncertain when they asked questions.

continue on p.19

ILLUSTRATION BY CHRISTIAN PABAS II

On October 24, 2023, The URIAN Republic, the “Official Gazette of the Supreme Student Government of the FSUU” posted an announcement on their Facebook page, “reporting” the announcement of an academic break announcement by University President Rev. Fr. John Christian U. Young during the opening ceremony of the 122nd University Days celebration.

The “report” by a staff of the Secretary of Information mistakenly named the President as “Fr. James Young”. Less than 20 minutes later, they were corrected by a faculty member, to which they responded with an apology for mistakenly naming the university president. They corrected the president’s name as “Rev. Fr. Christian John U. Young”, another error.

After the “revival” of The URIAN Republic, the publication reached out to them to inform them of the connotations of using “publication” as a label. They were informed of the necessary steps they had to take should they decide to pursue the creation of a publication for the FSUU SSG and of the current editorial policy governing active publications in the university. They reassured the publication that they were not “an official publication” and that they were going to review the policy forwarded to them.

In another incident, The URIAN Republic posted a publication material reporting a “December Break” on December 23 to January 3, 2024. Complaints from students immediately bombarded them for being misleading and confusing.

The operations of the page was headed by Joshua F. Batac, the newly appointed Secretary of Information. Posts published by both The URIAN Republic and The Urian Publication were similar in nature and the identical page names had confused the public.

On October 25, 2023, The Urian Publication decided to publish a notice to the public on its page, iterating that it was not affiliated with The URIAN Republic and that it is an independent body mandated to cover and interpret events on its own accord while responsibly abiding by the Philippine Journalists Code of Ethics. What followed was a public advisory by The URIAN Republic. They stated that the main purpose of the page was to effectively and efficiently deliver relevant student government and university activities and operations to the studentry that is accurate, responsible, truthful, and most importantly, unbiased.

While alarming that they felt they had to respond to the publication’s notice to the public, the move was also indicative of their intentions. To claim that their page was accurate, responsible, truthful, and unbiased after incorrectly naming the university president twice and after several posts that swept issues under the rug

such as the disqualification of CJEP and TEP is an indicator of an ulterior motive. A motive that aimed to mislead people into thinking that all was well and that there were no issues at all.

With that in mind, one cannot help but ask: Where do we draw the line? When the publication that had to go through the rigorous process of screening applicants multiple times and ensuring quality in terms of write-ups, layouts, and photographs while adhering to the values of journalism is contended with by a page that claims to be “not an official publication”, where do we draw the line?

When the publication that had to ensure they had the approval of their adviser when publishing content—even if it comes at the cost of publishing information faster—is contended by a page that seems to have no supervision by an adviser of any sort, where do we draw the line?

While valid as a way of informing the student body of their actions and activities, it is essential to note that a majority of these mishaps are clearly a result of rushing to publish information online without the tact and technicality of a journalist as desperation for damage control.

It is important to highlight that a majority of their posts are similar to those of state-controlled media. Sugarcoating information, highlighting the ideal picture, and sweeping the problems under the rug. Not only is it alarming that such actions are being allowed to proliferate in a university that values integrity, but it is also alarming that actions like these, reeking of state propaganda, are being tolerated. This leads to several questions. Are they open to being accountable for their actions? As student leaders, what intentions do they have regarding their actions? Is there an individual advising them and taking note of these alarming actions? Or are the supervising individuals also enablers of incompetence and ill-intent?

While some may say that these shouldn’t be taken seriously as they’re only games or they’re only matters that happen inside the corridors of the university, these are grave indicators of a betrayal of the student body. These actions signify the harrowing roots of corruption and negligence, threatening the very tenets of democracy. These actions indicate a deeper evil. The evil of mirroring leaders who chased absolute power, leaders who neglected their population, and leaders who do not want criticism and accountability. The people we grew up reading about as children. The people our parents told us to never be.

“

Are they open to being accountable for their actions? As student leaders, what intentions do they have regarding their actions? Is there an individual advising them and taking note of these alarming actions? Or are the supervising individuals also enablers of incompetence and ill-intent?

WRITTEN BY LOVELY PADAZ

ILLUSTRATION BY KRISTINE CARIAGA & CARLSON MATA

Striking a Balance:

Navigating Risks, Trust, and Objectivity in Modern Journalism

In today’s world where violence and conflict are rampant, the media and their practitioners are often a target. The field of journalism is in a constant state of flux. New challenges and opportunities are always emerging.

Journalism is a crucial component in a functioning democracy as it provides the public with reliable information and holds those in power accountable for their actions. Journalism plays a role in helping individuals manage their anticipation, contributing to their emotional well-being. It can provide rewarding social and cognitive experiences that have a positive impact on people’s emotions in a comprehensive and lasting manner. But what if these benefits came at the expense of the lives of journalists?

Recently, the news of Juan Jumalon, known as DJ Johnny Walker, being murdered while on air inside his own home shook the media industry. This tragic incident occurred during the same week as the celebration of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, ironically highlighting the hazards that journalists face every day. Being a journalist is an endeavor that comes with its own perils, often in the name of service.

Although it is important for journalists to be brave and tenacious in their pursuit of the truth, they also have a responsibility to protect their own safety and well-being. Moreover, journalists who take risks such as during the coverage of the Marawi war and typhoon Yolanda, not only endanger themselves but also their colleagues and sources. This can have serious consequences for all the individuals involved and for the profession of journalism as a whole, not to mention undermine their credibility, as it can lead to accusations of sensationalism and reckless reporting.

The state of journalism today is concerning. The rise of fake news, misinformation, and a declining trust in the media has a rippling effect on student journalism. While student journalists have traditionally faced challenges such as limited resources and censorship, the rise of social media has given them new platforms to share their work and engage with their audiences.

The advent of social media and the internet has provided a wealth of information and new platforms for disseminating news, but it has also led to the proliferation of fake news and misinformation that is alarming. This

erosion of trust in journalism is a grave concern for a society that relies on accurate and dependable information. Journalists work in a context where these opposing ideas are widespread. While objectivity is questioned, it still holds importance in professional and everyday conversations on journalism. Therefore, we need to develop new ways of thinking that go beyond these established divisions and provide tools to understand how journalists navigate them.

One such approach is giving value to reputation and integrity among journalists, as well as the ability to establish a sense of credibility and trust with their audience. By considering this, we can gain insight into how journalists deal with the complexities of their profession and the challenges of balancing different perspectives and values.

It is crucial not to ignore the significance of these opposing ideas in journalism. Instead, we should strive to develop a deeper understanding and explore alternative frameworks that go beyond simple divisions. This will allow us to better grasp the intricacies of journalism and how journalists navigate the complexities of their work.

Despite the challenges, student journalists play a crucial role in providing reliable information to the public. The rise of social media has given them a fresh avenue for working and engaging with their audience. However, they still face the same challenges professional journalists have in terms of verifying information and maintaining credibility. By adhering to the principles of ethical journalism, one must uphold the standards of accuracy, fairness, and impartiality while avoiding sensationalism and bias in rebuilding trust and ensuring that the public has access to reliable information.

As journalist Edward R. Murrow once said, “The obscure we eventually see; the completely obvious, it seems, takes longer.” Let us work together to shed light on the obscure and ensure that the truth is always within reach.

WRITTEN BY KYLE ONG YIU

DESIGN BY MARIA GWYNETH GUIBAO

Navigating PostPandemic Education: Assessing Blended Education in an Unequal Landscape

The pandemic is over. Quarantine is a distant memory. Google Meet, Zoom, and Discord are now mere afterthoughts.

However, one remnant that remains from a past no one would like to return to is full-fledged online learning. While studies are inconclusive and sentiments are subjective, it’s undeniable that for most, uncertainty and confusion remain.

Now that the pandemic is over and life is slowly moving forward, where do we go from here? While online learning was indeed a great avenue and platform for the continuation of education, it was in times when inperson classes were impossible. Those were desperate moments and the continuation of classes was the priority. While there was no intent on sacrificing quality, it was still inadvertently sacrificed as there was no precedence for online classes.

One may argue that online classes were an avenue for students to learn more while doing less, but this does not include the underprivileged. In the past, there were only three things that the average student would have to spend money on: Transportation, food, and school supplies. During the pandemic, we only had to spend money on a smartphone, data, and internet connection.

With the implementation of blended learning, the expenses doubled. On top of the usual expenses, one would have to spend for data and internet

connection as well. While one may say that this is a consequence that comes with the changing of times and that mobile phones and internet connections are a necessity in today’s day and age, there are still several things to consider.

Even if we assume that the average Filipino student has access to the internet and the equipment necessary, we still have to take into account the underprivileged who are reliant on alternatives such as traditionally taking notes and submitting activities on paper. While interventions have been put in place in the university such as free wifi connection and computers for studying found in the EIRC, they are still not enough. The wifi connection is only available when you’re at school, meaning students would have to stay at school to do activities that are designed to be done remotely; defeating the purpose. On the other hand, only a handful of people can utilize the EIRC at a time. The computers won’t be able to accommodate the majority of the students, and the free wifi is only good when it’s available. Is blended learning ideal for a population like ours? In a time when we’re able to hold full face-to-face classes, is it necessary for us to pursue an option that may leave the underprivileged behind?

“

Is blended learning ideal for a population like ours? In a time when we’re able to hold full faceto-face classes, is it necessary for us to pursue an option that may leave the underprivileged behind?

WRITTEN BY FAYE TORRALBA

3 Years Later: Re-assessing the Zero Plastic Policy

Operation Zero Plastic (ZEP) was implemented at Father Saturnino Urios University during A.Y. 2019-2020 in hopes of reducing the amount of plastic waste the school produced.

Three years hence, has it served the purpose it was initially meant to? Have the students, faculty, and even administration followed the rules and conditions - or has Operation ZEP become Operation ZIP?

Ever since the integration of the policy, students have been innovative in ways both good and bad. While it’s notable that a lot of students have now begun to utilize water bottles and reusable utensils, the sneaking in of single-use plastic has also been rampant. From plastic bottles to liters of soft drinks, styrofoam cups, and other items prohibited by the Zero Plastic Policy, students can hide them inside their bags and bring them inside the campus without being spotted.

As one of the individuals who spearheaded the launch of this project, my main reasoning for the project was to reduce plastic waste within the campus; specifically plastic bottles that littered both campuses. The prohibition of the use of styrofoam cups, cellophanes, and even tarpaulins was an afterthought.

Today, it’s as if Operation ZEP is only applicable in the lobby where guards are strict in the implementation. Tenants on the campus are not an exception to the policy, but their utilization of single-use plastic items such as plastic spoons for ice creams or even plastic containers for iced coffee by the coffee shop that had

operated until last semester is a clear violation of this.

On the side of students, organizations, and even student governments, violations are also notable. Plastic juice bottles were previously distributed as snacks during some events, and meals during events, which are by majority fast food, make use of plastic spoons, cups, and lids.

Even the faculty and officers are no exception as violators of the policy. Tarpaulins were used for events such as the exhibition match between the FSUU and XU basketball varsity, and even the list of deceased Urians during the celebration of the Memorial Mass as part of the University Days Celebration.

While it’s undeniable that the Zero Plastic Policy is important as part of our advocacies to help eliminate plastic waste, the policy has to be reassessed and re-evaluated. The foregoing statement then begs the question: Which plastic items should we allow? Should we begin to allow plastics so long as they’re reusable? Will tarpaulins now be considered so long as permits are secured?

These issues are not something that should be easily swept aside. Whether it’s through stricter implementation, better guidelines, or total reconsideration of the policy, it definitely has to be addressed.

“

While it’s undeniable that the Zero Plastic Policy is important as part of our advocacies to help eliminate plastic waste, the policy has to be reassessed and reevaluated.

ILLUSTRATION BY CHRISTIAN PABAS II

Urios in the Year 3000: Late Again

COMICS BY CJ PASION

COLORED BY CHRISTIAN PABAS II

Available

Remaining Balance:

Urian Publication FINANCIAL STATEMENT AS OF DECEMBER 21, 2023

178,278.00

287,907.00

FSUU Executive Council

FINANCIAL STATEMENT

The Urian Publication has reached out several times through formal writing to the FSUU SSG - Executive Council to request for their financial statement but have not received a copy for Publishing as of January 31, 2024.

WRITTEN BY OZZY ALABA

PHOTO BY KYLE ONG YIU

NP lady tankers rule Urian Games ‘23 swimming with dominant run

Aside from flying, the Nursing Program’s (NP) female eagles chipped history in the pool like a shark on the loose.

And they did dominantly.

Early October 27 morning saw the Soaring Eagles stamp their golden mark underwater as their women swimmers steered them to an overall championship in the 2023 Urian Games men’s and women’s swimming competition with nine golds, two silvers, and three bronzes at the FSUU Basic Education Department swimming pool.

The program notched all of their gold and silver medals through their female tankers headed by Andre Edradan, who bagged a tournament-high four golds in her different events; her male teammates grabbed the bronzes.

Edradan started her winning streak in the 100-meter breaststroke and backstroke, swiftly passing her rivals to occupy the golden seats in 1:41.00 and 1:51.00 ticks, 20 and 23 seconds earlier than eventual silver getters Blessed Rojo and Kristen Cariaga from the Business Administration Program (BAP), respectively.

The Level II Nursing student breezed through the morning with a lead in her first two stints and never looked back, surging midway to lock her top podium finishes.

And her onslaught did not end there.

Andre continued her pool supremacy by claiming her third gold on a 1-2 medal finish with fellow NP swimmer Jedha Payapaya in the 50-meter breaststroke on a onesided 45.24-second outing.

She then led her 4x50-meter freestyle troop, composed of Payapaya, Sofia Torralba, and Crystal

Canete, to a shared golden finish, her fourth one, with a 2:38.00 output, 61 seconds sooner than the runners-up Criminal Justice Education Program (CJEP)

Meanwhile, Payapaya showed big for the Eagles’ golden swim run by nabbing two golds on her own in the 50-meter in 41 seconds and 100-meter butterfly, which saw her as the lone competitor, in one minute and 43 seconds.

Torralba then dominated the freestyle events by snagging two golds in the 100-meter race on a 1-2 medal finish anew with Canete after escaping in clutch time with a 0.07-second gap on the former, and the 50-meter in just 37.70 ticks.

Canñete also etched her golden wins in the 50-meter backstroke after a 52.56 performance, 3.26 seconds better than Angel Gica from the Accountancy Program (AP).

It was a different story for the men’s band, however, as they took three third-place enders in the 50- and 100-meter breaststroke and 100-m backstroke.

On the other hand, BAP settled for second in the overall rankings with three golds, six silvers, and three bronzes; four silvers more than third-seat clinchers CJEP together with their three bronze medals.

The newly-crowned queens of Urian swimming, together with other champions and victors, are poised to defend their throne in the Games’ next version to be held in the next academic year.

WRITTEN BY DANFORD LOPEZ ILLUSTRATION BY CIELO BACTIL

Ching Salcedo Dominates in UDays Swimming Competition

Claide Oscar “Ching” F. Salcedo from the Business Administration Program (BAP) stood out in the men’s category swimming competition held at the Morelos Campus Pool for the 122nd University Days celebration.

As the varying programs competed for gold in the swimming contest early in the morning, Ching eclipsed the other athletes. The programs were allowed to have one swimmer to compete for them in each category of the competition and as a student of the Business Administration Program, he took the helm and raised three gold medals and a silver medal in the men’s division.

Salcedo’s first event was the 50-meter Butterfly. Everyone was shocked by disbelief because despite starting several seconds later than the rest of the competition due to a misunderstanding with the whistle-blower, he still won the race with a significantly wide margin, clocking in at 35 seconds. The 2nd placer from the Engineering and Technology Program clocked in at 51 seconds.

Salcedo further cemented his dominance by winning gold in the 100-meter freestyle and 100-meter butterfly. To cap off his stint, he secured a silver for the Business Administration Program. The wins occurred during the meter relay competition in a photo finish against the Criminal Justice Education Program who were able to steal a gold away from him and his team by clocking in at 2 minutes and 32 seconds.

As the swimming competition concluded Salcedo finished with 3 golds, 1 silver, and the adoration of the crowd. In an interview with Ching, he credits his tireless work ethic, unwavering determination, and the desire to be a better swimmer for his accolades.

Father Saturnino Urios University’s (FSUU) winning pursuit in the 2023 Hardcourt Showdown fell flat on October 27, yielding to Xavier University (XU) in a lopsided 88-99 thwarting at the FSUU Main Gymnasium.

The home squad misfired their shots due to their rivals’ defensive stops and offensive outbursts and never found their footing from there until the finale to eventually trip to their defeat in an exhibition game held as part of the 122nd University Days in front of many Urians watching from the bleachers and sidelines.

FSUU immediately had an icy prelude after finding their offensive assault limited by XU’s glue-like walls and multiple scoring bombs to fall to a 28-49 halftime deficit.

And the blue-clad hoopers’ bleeding never stopped from thereon.

Despite the hometown darlings trimming their

BY KYLE ONG YIU

FSUU trips on dominant XU in Hardcourt Showdown Beyond the Hoop: A Reflection on Priorities

It is said that three things in life are certain for Filipinos: love for God, love for country, and love for basketball. Looking back, there are only so many memories one can recall where the Philippines has been able to prove something on the court. Save for the success in this year’s Asian Games with Gilas bagging gold. Other than the breaking of the Korean Curse to qualify for the 2014 World Cup led by Pingris, Aguilar, and Alapag, all of our wins have either been memories of a distant past or victories of the heart. Despite all of that, why do we still love this sport so much? Why does it bring entire households together? Why is it a constant in almost every Filipino boy’s childhood?

In 1954, the late Carlos Loyzaga led the Philippines to a bronze in Rio de Janeiro against France, reaching the highest an Asian team has ever had on the world stage. Ever since then, it’s all been a downhill trend for the Filipinos when it comes to actually winning. However, the appreciation of Filipinos for the game has been the opposite, increasing year by year. While this may seem harmless, when one strays away from the bias embedded in the blood, real problems begin to emerge. Wesley So left the Philippines for the States. The Filipinas’ 1st ever win in the FIFA World Cup was swept aside despite being so historic. More recently, Maxine Esteban, the highest-ranked fencer in the Philippines, moved to Ivory Coast. This proves one thing: appreciation and support are not an unlimited resource.

double-digit disadvantage to 78-79 in the final canto on top of Mark Castro’s two clutch rainbow shots, the visitors retaliated with a series of mini-runs that loosened their comeback chances on an 83-87 pitfall, sealing their beating as time expired.

It was a different scene for the Crusaders, on the other hand, as they found the momentum swinging in their favor right off the bat by erecting a 23-16 firststanza lead.

And despite their opponents’ spirited fightback in the crunch period, XU heated their attacking arsenal at the time when it mattered the most and held on to their leverage for dear life to secure their victory in the waning moments.

Though FSUU submitted on a bitter loss, the varsity troop is still optimistic about winning the tilt’s next edition soon.

When the spotlight is steady over the heads of basketball players and fans, we take away from the appreciation and support other athletes need and deserve. Plenty of athletes like EJ Obiena and Hidilyn Diaz have won more than basketball ever has, but all the support they’ve gotten is a reward after all the hard work has been done. But what about people who’ve shed just as much sweat, blood, and tears who are unfortunate enough not to bag a win despite years of effort?

In FSUU, there’s currently only one recognized varsity. While investing in the basketball team is necessary as it’s the sport beloved by many, the budget for varsities isn’t unlimited. This would mean sacrificing other sports and endeavors that have real chances of actually obtaining achievements. For instance, FSUU’s Esports scene has been growing exponentially over the past few years. FSUU’s debate society has been a constant in local, regional, and even nation-wide competitions. Table tennis, swimming, chess, and other sports are also growing thanks to the numerous talented students of the university. While it’s a far cry to expect that other extracurricular fields would get the same support as the basketball team, one can only hope for increased support in the future.

OPINION

WRITTEN

WRITTEN BY OZZY ALABA

Arnold “Twitch Droxxxy” L. Aruj

Ryan “Acy” Geloca

WRITTEN BY OZZY ALABA

LAYOUT BY JASPER MISSION

John Gabriel “Agnostos” Buco

John Ruther “Polbos” Corvera Jarie“chungkuyla” A. Montencino

Bon Cyril Jethro “vaugner” T. Gunhuran

Arth Emman “EmanQT” Anito

Josh“Nefaron” B. Cadelina

The Urian Arena Vanguards’ (TUAV) Valorant division proved their might in the 2023 Mindanao Alliance Games by sweeping Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) 2-0. The tournament was held mostly online, but the finals was held face-to-face last January 20, 2024 at Central Mindanao University, Bukidnon.

The Shark Cavaliers went on hot throttle in a flash with their tactical aggression, leaving MSU-IIT off-guard and reverting to their defensive antics. They never looked back from there edging their opponents en route their golden feat.

However, they had to dig deeper up their sleeves to beat the ever-resilient MTE Excalibur squad. MSU-IIT managed to bring it to a 16-14 second-game thriller before TUAV finally grasped the regional crown.

TUAV president and Valorant squad member Jarie Montecino claimed that their victory was a result of the team’s intense three-month-long competitive period. They had scrimmages against other schools, analyzed their matches, and occasionally trained against international teams.

After losing to Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) early in the upper bracket, the Vanguards crawled their way to the gold medal match in a grit-and-grind contest, escaping the Holy Cross of Davao College (HCDC) in

the lower bracket second round and Mapua Malayan Colleges - Mindanao (MMCM), 1-0, in the quarters before exacting a sweet revenge on their upper bracket tormentors in a 2-0 semis sweep.

But their goal was beyond simply winning the championship.

Montecino also said that apart from notching the coveted throne, all the squad thought of was to clamp a historic feat for the university and prove to Urians that esports is more than just playing video games.

The Ryan “Acy” Geloca-led Sharks vie to add more feathers to their cap in the tilt’s national level in a soonto-be-announced stint.

On the other hand, The Urian Arena Vanguards’ ML:BB and COD:M team Leviticus who only made it to the qualifiers and semi-finals respectively, are looking to reach higher grounds next year.

Angelo

Urian Debate Society Gains Ground in Regional Debating Tilts

WRITTEN BY LOVELY PADAZ LAYOUT BY JASPER MISSION

“You don’t have to be confident in something to pursue it because, by pursuing it, you’ll eventually be able to be confident,” said Princess Marie Labadia. Despite her introverted personality, Labadia, together with her fellow Urian debaters, stood tall in stints they never expected to reign in.

The recently concluded Regatta Intervarsity debate, held on August 5 to 6, 2023, one of the numerous competitions the Urian Debate Society participated in, proved the prowess of Princess Marie Labadia, a Grade 12 student from Father Saturnino Urios University - Bp. Pueblos Senior High School. She took home the crown as the grand champion. For her, the best ways to prepare for a tournament were through training and continuous debating. In a single debate round, which may last very long, one may need to focus entirely, listen to every speaker, discuss cases with a partner, and quickly think of possible loopholes one can use to argue against adversaries’ points.

Another significant array of achievements for the Urian Debate Society was gained

from Davao Intervarsity as Mark Breynan Gringin, another Grade 12 student, made it to the Octofinals in the Davao Intervarsity 2023, held last July 15-16, 2023. Kyle Anthony Ong Yiu, a 3rd Year BSED English student, and Hiram Mosquito, an AB Political Science alumnus of the university, together with Cynne Paul Hayon of Caraga State University, reached the Quarterfinals as well. Kyle Adrian Llego, a 3rd year AB Political Science student was also awarded the 7th-best adjudicator award of the tournament.

On October 28-29, 2023, in the Surigao Intervarsity Parliamentary Debate Championship, Kyle Adrian Llego broke into the outer rounds and was awarded the 2nd best judge award in the championship, while Kyle Anthony Ong Yiu served as a core adjudicator.

These debaters believe that while the debate was the art of persuasion and argumentation, it was also the art of finding the best solutions available; this was something they all lived by.

Hack4Gov: Pushing the Future of Cybersecurity Forward

Hack4Gov, a nationally endorsed competition took place on the 16th of October 2023 at the Manila Grand Opera Hotel in Santa Cruz, Manila. The event’s main purpose was to promote the better welfare of Cybersecurity on a nationwide scope but also to hone the skills of cybersecurity aspirants.

“Ethical Hackers” around the country battled for supremacy and the top award. As our society continued to progress in this technology-driven world, the need for protection from all kinds of nefarious exploits be it in the physical or cyber landscapes needed to be addressed. This necessity was one of the reasons why events such as this have slowly found their way to educational institutions.

Representing Caraga Region was FSUU’s finest team, “Binary 4lliance”. The team previously won the DICT Caraga Capture The Flag competition last August 4, 2023, which helped cement their skills for larger competitions.

Cybersecurity Capture The Flag (CTF) is a Competition with many different areas in Cybersecurity. In cybersecurity, Capture the Flag competitions are exercises where participants, either individually or as part of a team, are challenged to find and exploit vulnerabilities in a system to capture a “flag” or piece of information. The Hack4Gov Nationals was a CTF in Jeopardy,

one of the most common types among several CTFs.

In Jeopardy, teams are presented with multiple challenges and problems that have corresponding points. As is the case with most competitions, the team that accomplishes the most tasks in a certain time limit would win. Within the Jeopardy competitions, CTFs have subcategories such as Cryptography, Forensics, OSINT, WebExploit, and Reverse Engineering.

As all the different regions competed for the competition the team from Ateneo de Davao University stood above the rest as they won the competition and garnered the chance to represent the country in the Cyber SEA Games 2023 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Ateneo team will be competing with 9 other ASEAN countries in another CTF competition. While FSUU was unable to win at the national level, the learning experience was an important one for the team and the university.

WRITTEN BY LOVELY PADAZ

BY ABBY AUXTERO

Philippine Eagle Foundation Hosts Indigenous Culture Exhibit

On October 14, 2023, the 3rd Floor of SM Mall in Butuan City transformed into a cultural haven as an exhibit unfolded, commemorating Indigenous Peoples Month in collaboration with the Philippine Eagle Foundation. This event, a brainchild of Erwin Mascarinas, a distinguished photojournalist, and Ivy Marie Mangadlao, a skilled Feature Writer, embarked on a photographic odyssey, capturing the vibrant cultural heritage of the Indigenous Peoples community.

While the exhibit showcased the Philippine Eagle, Mascarinas clarified that its focus went beyond, emphasizing the eagle’s pivotal role in the ecosystem. Delving deeper, it explored the lives, cultures, and traditional practices of Indigenous Peoples, including rare arts like traditional mat-making and cooking methods. These showcased traditions served as a living repository of ancestral wisdom.

Scientifically known as Pithecophaga jefferyi, the critically endangered Philippine Eagle, endemic to Philippine forests, took center stage. Mascarinas accentuated its monogamous nature and admirable parenting behaviors, highlighting its significance in maintaining the delicate balance of the ecosystem.

The exhibit not only spotlighted the majestic eagle but also acknowledged the vital role played by people, particularly Indigenous Peoples residing near forests, in conservation efforts.

Their intimate knowledge of animal habitats and nesting sites proved invaluable to the cause.

Beyond conservation, the Philippine Eagle Foundation extended its mission by offering job opportunities and knowledge to Indigenous People workers, integrating modern machinery for enhanced efficiency.

Mascarinas, having immersed himself in various Indigenous Peoples communities, underscored the wisdom of learning from the past. He commended Indigenous Peoples for preserving traditions and cultures passed down by their ancestors, emphasizing the imperative to appreciate all living organisms in the ecosystem. Mangadlao stressed the significance of biodiversity, highlighting its role in ensuring equilibrium, with every organism, regardless of size, playing a pivotal role in sustaining this delicate balance.

PHOTO

FSUU conducts AI Course Creation training for the College and Basic Education faculty

The face of FSUU’s learning management system transformed as the AI Course Creation Training was administered last November 10, 2023, at the CBE Function Hall. FSUU Learn, the school’s primary platform for asynchronous learning, was recently upgraded with a feature that allows teachers to define parameters regarding course sections, topics, and content length. The AI copilot they plan to integrate automatically generates the content using information from online databases. Embracing these new changes to the system, the university made an effort to acquaint the teachers from different departments with the capabilities of AI.

Faculty members collaboratively experimented as they were allowed to navigate the AI-integrated features of the Learning Management System. The faculty welcomed the introduction of the groundbreaking features, as

these enable them to create and modify online LMS content much more efficiently. From designing online lessons, subject content, and organization, AI gives teachers fewer things to stress about. These changes play a pivotal role in the time management of an instructor, allowing them to allocate more time to attend to students’ other urgent needs. As colleges and universities continue to navigate the evolving landscape of education, the integration of AI is becoming increasingly essential. The successful completion of this training seminar signals a proactive approach by Father Saturnino Urios University to remain at the forefront of educational technology, ensuring that faculty and students are well-prepared for the future of learning. The training’s impact sets a precedent in embracing AI as a powerful ally in the pursuit of quality education.

WRITTEN BY OZZY ALABA

AI: A Societal Boom or Bane?

Technology has always paved the way for society to transform in many ways, making life easier and more convenient. As it continues thriving, it also changes itself to become finer and more advanced. With this, inventors created revolutionary tools that helped them achieve such goals. One of them is artificial intelligence (AI), which impacted everyone largely, especially in today’s generation.

Technologically speaking, an AI can perform jobs and achieve outputs on par with humans in the blink of an eye. Some of it includes tabulating complex data calculations, making impeccably written outputs in the blink of an eye, raising productivity, and more. But it also offers flaws that can diminish several opportunities in many ways.

And with its nature, can we consider AI a societal boom or bane?

For starters, we can’t deny that we rely on AI in many endeavors. For instance, it modernized call centers with the use of AI-powered tools that can cater to diverse clients simultaneously. Even in education, AI-stimulated tools like ChatGPT help teach lessons and hone skills. Furthermore, the business sector also relies on AI to track all types of growth and predict future trends, aiding them in making informed decisions.

Like any technological advancement, AI also has its downsides. For instance, in education, over-reliance on AIs won’t guide students to self-discovery, which is the main teaching goal to reach. Even in the call center industry, AIs may misinterpret customer inquiries, which may lead to incorrect responses or even perpetuate discrimination for some groups.

So is AI really a societal boom or bane? IT DEPENDS. It depends on how a person uses AI in specific contexts. For example, if you rely on AI to make an essay like this, then you won’t learn how to create one by yourself. But if we use AI to scaffold learning, then we can have many options in guiding students to learn meaningfully. In other aspects, one may also find it difficult to learn digital art if they rely on AI generators. However, if they use it only as a benchmark for when they’re running out of inspiration, they’ll be able to improve their skills. If we hold such knowledge deeply, this entire ballgame will be in our hands.

AUGUST - Rlyd Sarang

At 21 years old, Rlyd (pronounced are-lied) embodies the essence of ‘determination.’ In the face of challenges, he embraces resolve as the guiding force that propels him towards achievement.

Juggling the roles of a student assistant, aspiring educator, and a player for the Urian Arena Vanguards might seem like an insurmountable task, but for Rlyd, it’s a challenge he gladly embraces.

As a neurodivergent (individuals whose neurological development and functioning differ from the societal norm), Rlyd acknowledges the unique hurdles he faces. He sometimes struggles to communicate with others, but he does not let that keep him down. Despite occasional struggles, he remains steadfast, using these challenges as stepping stones rather than stumbling blocks. He says he took up education to be more empathetic, which is a quality that comes with great teachers.

Applying as a Student Assistant at the university has been transformative for Rlyd. He views it as an opportunity to acquire skills that he might not have acquired otherwise.

When asked about how he can manage his time despite his numerous responsibilities, he details the process:

“Do the important things first. Some things on my list are finishing all of my tasks during my duties, studying for a test, writing a report, and doing chores. Once I get the “work” done, then is time to improve my skills as a player because a Gamer’s Flame is not easily smothered. Getting high grades while focusing on your duties and staying as a competitive player is already an impressive feat for a student.”

To end his interview, Rlyd highlights a message he hopes would reach others:

“To all the people that are experiencing the same things I am, always give room for improvement. If you’re busy doubting yourself, you wouldn’t know that people might be afraid of your potential. If you ever make mistakes, just tell yourself that you’re improving and there’s no way but up.”

Rlyd is an Urian in heart, spirit, and action.

SEPTEMBER - Vea Legaspi

Now 22, Vea Angela H. Legaspi at 19 embarked on a life-altering situation; one that was far from glamorous or ideal. The most significant challenge of her college journey occurred in her first year as a freshman, as at the age of 19, Vea, who was wrapped with fear, officially entered the harsh reality of motherhood.

While her determination to continue her studies was admirable, it came with its own set of difficulties. Balancing her academic pursuits, part-time jobs, her role as a mother, facing emotional hormonal changes was challenging. These realities, alongside postpartum depression, became her new reality.

However, through her family and partner’s neverending support, she made a courageous decision to still pursue her studies. The combined efforts

between her and her partner helped them get through the financial hurdles of parenthood.

This is not a story to romanticize teenage pregnancy, but a raw and unfiltered depiction of the hardships a young mother had endured. She, in no way, glamorizes the trials and tribulations she had gone through. These experiences were something no one should go through. But she had taken control of what she could. She made this story hers.

When asked what message she wanted to send to the youth, she answered, “It is not easy [being a young mom]. My life had a full change because of what happened. There were a lot of things that I couldn’t do anymore because of course, my child comes first now before anything or anyone else. I acknowledge my mistake and I am now doing everything that I can to make up for it as it is not my son’s fault. To the youth, enjoy life and prioritize your studies. Lastly, make your parents proud.”

This is Vea’s story. Mother of a 3-year-old boy, 4thyear criminology student. Hers is a story of resilience — of choosing to persist when the situation appeared overwhelming, a living example of the tenacious spirit that should live within us all.

OCTOBER - Mikay Torralba Michaella Eizelierre P. Torralba, known by many as

Urians of IlluminationgtheUntold

WRITTEN BY CHRISTINE BARBA, HARRISON

“Mikay”, is a remarkable 21-year-old who juggles the multiple roles of being a content creator, influencer, model, and academic achiever. Her life seems like a perfect blend of glamor, fame, and success; however, behind all these, lies a young woman who has faced her fair share of challenges and hardships.

Originally pursuing a degree in AB Psychology, she later shifted to Communication, a choice guided by practicality and the immense support of her parents. Despite her hectic schedule, she prioritizes her studies, often heading straight to class after demanding shoots and flights. Her family and friends provide her with the support and understanding she needed to balance her demanding lifestyle, all the while maintaining a level head and determination.

It came to the point where she received insensitive opinions about her body, her height, her weight, and how she looked. Despite this, she remains true to herself and chooses options that are always based on what’s best for her overall well-being.

Mikay reminds people to never give up on their dreams. She credits her success to perseverance and being consistent with one’s dreams. Her journey serves as a reminder that success is more than simply a destination; it is also about transformation and the impact it may have on others. Behind the fame, glamour, and success is a

heart filled with dreams, compassion, and a desire to inspire.

NOVEMBER - Julius Poliseno

In the complex fabric of Julius Poliseno A. Bohol’s life, resilience and courage shine through as guiding stars. At 33, enrolled in his first year of the Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management at his dream university, his journey is marked by unforeseen struggles and an unstoppable quest for personal growth.

When asked about his decision to enroll for his 6th degree, he would attribute it to boredom. On a serious note, he detailed that every time he would pass by the university in his younger years, he promised himself that someday he would enroll in FSUU.

Behind this seemingly endless academic pursuit is a story of overcoming mental health challenges. He battles severe depression, anxiety, and obsessivecompulsive disorder (OCD) every day, with education serving as a therapeutic “distraction” for him.

The reason and the scope of this phase in Julius’ life extends beyond the Philippines, tracing back to his early college years. His journey to the United States stemmed from an online connection with someone

the UntoldMonth: Journeys

HARRISON DEUTCH, KYLE ONG YIU

who later became his first spouse, while also pursuing his first degree. His commitment to a new beginning was evident as he decided not to attend his graduation ceremony since it was only days before leaving for the U.S.

While there, things didn’t start out great. He juggled being a Zumba instructor, house cleaner, and grocery clerk. He soon realized his spouse was abusive.

While navigating through other professions, he found himself working other odd jobs such as donut clerk, fitness instructor, personal choreographer, a member of a dance group, and a job in the healthcare industry. At the same time, he pursued an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts and Operations.

His life would eventually come to a halt after meeting his second spouse, an Italian flight attendant who happened to be struggling with bipolar disorder. Hitting rock bottom after another three years of physical, emotional, and financial abuse, Julius decided to pursue an online psychology course in desperation for answers and freedom. Eventually, he was able to set boundaries and free himself from the toxic relationship.

After earning a certification as a mental health counselor, he got a position at a New York bank where he’s been growing his career for the past five years. In the process, he has pursued several other

educational endeavors such as a degree in Architecture and Interior Design at the New York Institute of Arts and Design and a photography course. He has established a modeling agency to empower the youth while advocating for mental health awareness.

Despite having what others would only dream of, Julius maintains that “money can’t buy happiness.” He describes himself as a complicated person, but a person who tries his best to survive every day, nonetheless.

At the core of his mental health issues is a strong fear of being alone, as well as a battle against the harmful thoughts that surface when things are calm. To cope, he is compelled to stay busy. Even when he’s making progress, the difficult parts of his situation remain, reminding him that his mental health issue is something he faces every day.

Despite these tribulations, he is a man free of regrets, seeing challenges as valuable lessons that he’ll forever treasure. These days, his pursuit of happiness is motivated by his desire to learn and to give back to people close to him.

Julius is the embodiment of the indomitable human spirit—to always be better than who he was yesterday. Among all the accolades he has garnered throughout his career, Julius champions courage, resilience, and forgiveness over anything else.

DECEMBER - Urian Cats

When it comes to the Urian community, what usually comes to mind are students, the faculty, and the staff. However, there’s one demographic that’s often overlooked—the cats.

After the demanding academic tasks and the stress of exams, students look for a way to unwind and destress. Some find comfort in the familiarity of the cats on campus. While they may not steal your food (as they usually politely ask for leftovers), they definitely will steal your heart with their playful antics and graceful prowls.

If there’s one thing that can bring students together, it’s the shared admiration for our feline friends. Their charming presence has always been a welcome comfort for faculty, students, and staff. Whether it’s a casual encounter or a cuteness overload, the cats have this magical ability to bring people together— transcending differences and creating connections among students.

All over the campus, these connoisseurs of comfort have mastered the art of chair-sharing. It’s not uncommon to find them perched next to students— sometimes even on top of them—offering silent support and motivation as they tackle assessments and other schoolwork.

Let’s challenge the conventional notion that institutions are defined solely by human components. Our cats are not just part of the institution; they are essential members of our academic family and Urians at heart. Their importance extends beyond being cute and cuddly—they are integral to the fabric of what makes our campus special.