The Augustinian Mirror, October 2012

LIFE ON THE ROAD

The highway can be a ‘home sweet home’ to some

BORROWED POWER

Take the authority by turning yourself into a teacher

THE UNREAL CONTROL Living in a metaphysical three-dimensional world

MONEY & SEDUCTION The economics of the oldest known profession

text by wilhelm c. lizada and ric martin l. lib-on • graphics by jerson e. elmido

editor’s note

www.usa-pub.blogspot.com/theaugustnianmirror

photographer jeremy jasper P. cembrano

In a world where everyone and everything seem to be in a constant struggle for control and authority, we tend to forget that power lies not only on the things and people that we perceive to be strong and powerful, it can also come from the most unexpected of places.

The embodiment of authority in our society may be perceived in the image of famous politicians capable of influencing people’s beliefs with every word that comes from their mouths- business tycoons who’ve swept the nation with their high rises that spring up like wild daisies, and society’s elites who are often associated with the concept of modern royalty; but in the pages of this magazine, we present to you, our dear readers, articles that show how power can come from anything and anyone. It can come from that female fire fighter who extinguishes infernos alongside men, or from those young ladies who use the art of seduction to pursue a living; and it can even come from us students ourselves, and our ability to effect change and break boundaries. Lest we forget, power can also be manifested through one’s ability to control his/her subconscious, or even the social media’s ability to hold society in the palm of their hands.

So read and on and discover for yourself just how power may lie in what seems to be the most powerless of things.

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photographer

thongenn lanz b. patiam models

jennifer jeanette p. cembrano jeremy jasper p. cembrano

VOLUME LXXIX NUMBER 1

OCTOBER 2012

THE OFFICIAL STUDENT MAGAZINE OF THE UNIVERSITY OF SAN AGUSTIN, ILOILO CITY, PHIL.

www.uSa-pub.bLogSpoT.com/THEAUGUSTINIANMIRROR

PUBLISHED BY THE usA puBlicAtions editors-in-chief

managing editor associate editors

literary editor wall newspaper editor art director photography editor circulation manager senior writers

staff writers

photoJournalists

magazine apprentice writers

newspaper apprentice writers

the augustinian mirror VoL. 79 No. 1 ocTobER 2012

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homemaster specialist, inc. ray adrian c. macalalag

Febrielyn S. Tumines Ric Martin L. Libo-on Anne Catherine D. Malazarte Thongenn Lanz B. Patiam John Louie E. Esmaya Ayah Danica V. Granada Wilhelm C. Lizada Joel S. Sastrillo Joyce Gem M. Canete Jeremiah John P. Vardeleon Marylex G. Sumatra Christine Joyce A. Saber Daniel P. Abutas Shila Lowesse Patryxia G. Lao Seulgi J. Han George L. Lozada Edrylle G. Cofreros Rochelle Louise D. Doromal Gladys T. Confesor

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Josefa Maria A. Castro Ray Adrian C. Macalalag

the AugustiniAn mirror is the official student magazine of the University of San Agustin. It is published once every semester by the USA Publications. Comments, contributions, and suggestions may be sent to the editors.

No part of this publication may be reproduced by any means without prior written permission and approval from the USA Publications and the respective article’s authors.

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director

usa-pub.blogspot.com usa-publications.journ.ph facebook.com/usa.publications twitter.com/USA_Pub youtube.com/USAPublications This magazine is designed using Adobe Photoshop CS3, Adobe Illustrator CS3, and Adobe InDesign CS3.

Characters are set in Avenir, Museo, and Museo Sans.

Ray Adrian C. Macalalag

{ABout tHe CoVer { The cover photo portrays a young man and woman seated on a royal throne. These members of society are perceived to be arrogant and ruthless holders of power. we must acknowledge the fact that power does not only emanate from them and their kind, but may also come from the least expected of places.

{Mirror reFleCtions{ after much thought and planning in the pub office, the USA Publications staff decided to use “power” as the theme for this issue of the Augustinian Mirror.

The uSa pub put in a lot of effort in producing this semester’s issue and we’d like to express our gratitude to the people who have made this possible. First, we’d like to thank Fr. Donato Ellezar, o.S.a. and Fr. Ian Ragodon, o.S.a. for signing our permits to stay overnight in school so that we could work on our articles. Second, we’d like to thank our moderator, ms. gladys confesor, for reviewing our articles and keeping all of the staffers under her watchful eye. Next, we’d like to thank the school’s security guards for keeping us safe during our overnight stays at the pub and for tolerating all of our shenanigans in and out of the office.

To Homemaster (Iloilo) Specialist, Inc.- for the warm accommodation and for letting us use their store for our cover photo shoot and to our very cooperative models to whom we apologize for the meagre snacks we offered them in return for all their effort. We’d also like to thank all of our parents for trusting us enough to stay in school for countless nights without having second thoughts as to whether we were really in school or out at Smallville.

To panorama printing, Inc. especially Nong Elmer, Nang Narly, and Ma’am Terry for extending their patience in printing this magazine. and lastly, to the augustinians, thank you for your continued support of the uSa publications and we hope you enjoy this semester’s issue!

PAge 8

PAge 20

{in tHis issue{

PAge 30

PAge 26

OPINION Skirmish 5 Word

BY RAY ADRIAN C. MACALALAG

PAge 18

Monarchical Philippines?

6A

BY JOSEFA MARIA A. CASTRO

RELIGION is an Option 7 Negation

BY JEREMIAH JOHN P. VARDELEON

SOCIETy of Modern-day [S]heroes 8 Anatomy

BY JESANNY I. YAP AND ROCHELLE LOUISE D. DOROMAL

Points 12 Selling

BY STEPHANIE KAY L. URQUIOLA Bawat Kilo 15 500 NI JERSON E. ELMIDO Baryang may Rabis 18 Ang NI WILHELM C. LIZADA than an Empty Space 20 More

BY RIC MARTIN L. LIBO-ON

INFOGRAPHICS Most Powerful Rulers in History 4 Ten

BY WILHELM C. LIZADA Facts 17 Body

BY JESANNY I. YAP AND MARYLEX G. SUMATRA

Copycat 24 Fashionable

BY MARYLEX G. SUMATRA Healing: The Burning Truth 26 Faith

BY JOYCE GEM M. CAÑETE Dreaming 28 Lucid

BY GENESSA A. BUENAFE Boundaries 30 Breaking

BY GENESSA A. BUENAFE

SCI-TECH Charge... Drive!

33 Plug,

BY JOEL S. SASTRILLO

CAMPUS in the Teacher’s Skin 36 Being

BY FEBRIELYN S. TUMINES

REvIEwS Games, and Fame 39 Rules,

BY AYAH DANICA V. GRANADA

www.uSa-pub.bLogSpoT.com/theaugustnianmirror

Fists and Slammed Lockers 10 Clenched

BY JOSEFA MARIA A. CASTRO

CULTURE

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ten Most Powerful rulers in History meet the makers and breakers who rocked the ages

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4 5

NAPOLEON BONAPARTE

Emperor Napoleon was a famous military and political leader of France who led the domination of continental Europe. He influenced European politics in the early 19th century. The French invasion led to the decline of his success.

CHARLEMAGNE

Proclaimed as the King of Franks from 768 up to his death, Charlemagne had a long record of accomplishments that would prove his worth to be on this list. He was able to unite the Frankish kingdoms into a single, powerful, Frankish Empire.

QUEEN ELIZABETH I

The Queen of England and Ireland in 1588-1603, Queen Elizabeth ruled her kingdoms for 44 years. She was one of the most successful female rulers in history. With her standards of setting a model for other females, she proved that her gender could equal, even do better than the rule of men.

GENGHIS KHAN

One of the most brutal, yet successful leaders, Genghis Khan, has made it to this list. Khan founded the Mongol Empire, and with his unique strategies and brilliant tactics, he conquered most areas of the world and united many nomadic tribes in Asia.

Considered as history’s most unselfish ruler, Joseph II was the first ruler of Austrian Dominions of the House of Lorraine. He abolished slavery and serfdom and did what was best for his people. Joseph II ruled the Holy Roman Empire from 1765 to 1790.

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KING JOSEPH II

This legendary military leader was known for his brutal tactics in combat.

Alexander was one of the best commanders of all time, conquering much of the world. He was able to make every city kneel at his feet without killing a single person.

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ALEXANDER THE GREAT

He became the first emperor of the Roman Empire. Julius Caesar managed to acquire total power but he didn’t have to resort to false promises and lies like rulers before him. He was assassinated in 14 AD which eventually led to the establishment of an unfamiliar era of peace called the Pax Romana.

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JULIUS CAESAR

Odysseus, a Greek king of Ithaca made it to the top ten list because of his renowned intelligence and cunning. He managed to trick the Trojans by building a wooden horse, inside which were soldiers hiding, and eventually, entering the impenetrable walls of Troy.

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ODYSSEUS

The man responsible for mass genocide during World War II completes our rundown of the top rulers. The creator of the Nazi party, Hitler was the charismatic leader that the Germans looked up to. Hitler made the Jews look as if they were a disease to Germany.

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ADOLF HITLER

source www.toptenz.net • compiled by wilhelm c. lizada • graphics by ray adrian c. macalalag

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ABRAHAM LINCOLN

The 16th President of the United States of America successfully preserved the union during the Civil War. Abraham Lincoln abolished slavery in America. If not for Lincoln, America would have been divided into two countries. Lincoln was considered one of the greatest leaders in history.

OPINION

{

RAZOR EDGE

Ray Adrian C. Macalalag

{

word skirmish Today, in the 21st Century, money is something valuable to a person more than ever. It can buy you your comfort food; it can buy you your leisure materials; it can even buy happiness, and ultimately, friends, especially the non-biodegradable ones. Whether it is the rich or the poor, most, if not all, depend on the fillers of their pockets – coins, bills, and checks. Price tags are the only things that limit.

ADMU and DLSU, respectively, also published their respective editorial responses to the Varsitarian editorial. Moreover, multiple articles from national dailies to blogs, to individual students to alumni, also came out; Most of them reprimanding the Varsitarian staff for that editorial.

Journalists have to value the gift of writing that they have. Stating facts and the truth is enough. Even in an editorial where a certain publication’s view on an issue is explained,

***** Anything written or spoken may be used against you.

Copied words, just like those that an actor-turned-senator claimed as his own, cause an uproar. Coming from blog spots and then translated, they could be passed off as the copycat speaker’s or the writer’s idea.

What is unique about this case is that a lawmaker did the copyingplagiarism, as it is called. Whose fault is it?

The more disappointing part was when this lawmaker

Now, is the pen really mightier than the sword? Or does it just act as an anvil where the sword’s strength to withstand potentially dangerous pressures is tried and tested?

baseless and demeaning words should not be used. More importantly, in the case of The Varsitarian, the staff should have respected other people’s dissenting stands or opinions.

Respect begets respect. A number of soldier ants would not come crawling out and biting everyone in sight if their anthill is not disturbed.

Now, is the pen really mightier than the sword? Or does it just act as an anvil where the sword’s strength to withstand potentially dangerous pressures is tried and tested?

defended himself by saying that, “words from poisonous tongues” were thrown his way to ruin his political career. Ironically, for this senator, there was nothing wrong with what he had done because he said he exerted effort anyway in translating copied words from English to Filipino. What a very “intelligent” excuse! Afterwards, the online libel issue became a basis for a section of the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012. The lawmaker could not take it any longer, I guess. But he did take it too personally by stooping

down to the level of the netizens who also had issues with English grammar and had a copy-fromgoogle-and paste syndrome that manifests itself in their Facebook statuses and Twitter tweets? ***** Nevertheless, there is an unending and always growing reservoir of words waiting to be spoken and written. It could be taken against us. It could be used to bribe us – like money.

It could be the factor that could make or break our future.

For The Varsitarian, they should simply consider the constructive comments on their RH Bill editorial. For those who have been offended big time at Ateneo and La Salle, they just have to keep on being patient and forgiving. As members of Catholic educational institutions, they should learn to forgive and forget, as we here in the University should do, too.

And for the actor-turnedsenator, his countrymen have high expectations of him and his colleagues in the Senate. The best thing he could do now is to apologize to the respective owners/authors of the texts he plagiarized (whether to the living ones or the heirs of the deceased ones) and try to come up with his own original, fiery and eloquent speech.

Words are easy to let go.

However, they are so poisonous that a single mistake could drastically disturb the calm waves of the sea of your life.

www.usa-pub.blogspot.com/theaugustnianmirror

However, it is not only money that is powerful. More can be affected and affected by words. As a cliché goes, “The tongue is the most poisonous part of the body.” Radically, it also has the strongest muscles in the body. Like money, the words that come out of our lips and our highly sophisticated pens are also valuable. They can destroy one’s reputation; they can help one earn a job and a living; they can make someone feel special; they can also make one happy and they can be instruments to gather followers or haters. This led me into thinking: Are words really mightier than a sword? Or do they act as the forge of the sword? Do actions really speak louder than words? Or are they the effect mechanisms through which the resulting real action gets lost?

Recently, three big universities in the country went into a heavy intellectual skirmish, all brought about by a controversial editorial article

by The Varsitarian, the official student publication of the University of Santo Tomas (UST).

In the editorial entitled,“RH Bill, Ateneo and La Salle: Of lemons and cowards”, the UST student publication called some professors of Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) and De La Salle University (DLSU) as “intellectual pretenders and interlopers”. Days later, The GUIDON and The LaSallian, the official student publications of

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OPINION

{

epicness

Josefa Maria A. Castro

{

A Monarchical philippines?

The existence of political dynasties in the Philippines is but an inevitability given our current political culture- so it seems. The emergence of these dynasties, the equivalent of an oligarchy in political science, was rooted in the Spanish colonial times when the Ilustrados or favored mestizos were given the responsibilities of a gobernadorcillo or an alcalde. After the Philippine-American war, the US asked these favored Ilustrados to take part in the democratic process. As such, notable Filipino families such as the Conjuangcos, Lopezes, Marcoses and Aquinos became household names.

the augustinian mirror vol. 79 no. 1 october 2012

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Artcile II Section 26 of the 1987 Constitution mandates that, “The State shall guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service, and prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law.” Despite this constitutional mandate, dynasties have continued to be a present staple in the Philippine political realm since the country does not have an enabling law banning their existence. The creation of this Anti-Dynasty Law has been an issue for quite some time and many attempts for its ratification have been passed over by Congress since 1987. The Lower House’s avoidance of this constitutional mandate is, in a way, reflective of either two things: that they deem it unnecessary for political dynasties to be prohibited, or they feel that they themselves are guilty of the crime.

Last October 24, Louis Biraogo filed a petition as a taxpayer, asking the Supreme Court to compel the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to outlaw political dynasties in his 26-page petition for mandamus, citing that the Constitutional mandate advocating his cause should be

implemented. The cornerstone for his petition was the fact that presidential cousin, Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV, and maternal aunt, Margarita Conjuangco, are both running for senator in the upcoming 2013 elections. The presence of political dynasties should no longer be subject to debate since the Constitution itself,

proved to be an inadequate measure. Seven out of every 15 legislators are members of families that are considered political dynasties- says a study conducted by the Asian Institute of Management Policy Center.

The continued practice of these dynasties has led to the degradation of our political culture and our practice of

The presence of political dynasties should no longer be subject to debate since the Constitution itself, the highest law of the land from which all other laws emanate - prohibits it.

the highest law of the land from which all other laws emanate - prohibits it. The framers themselves were adept and astute enough in ensuring that all Filipinos should have a “guarantee of equal access to opportunities for public power.”

Although the Comelec has already disqualified party-list groups with nominees from the same family, this act is still

politics has reverted to business strategies rather than actual public service. The same is also true not just with the national government, but also with our local governments. Apart from that, the Filipino culture of intense family-orientedness can be charged as the culprit for this on-going practice.

Comelec Chairman Sixto Brillantes advocates that

for political dynasties to be eradicated, people should take matters into their own hands. The power lies with the people themselves, and their initiative in putting an end to these dynasties once and for all. If not, we will continue empowering people simply because of their last namesomething that is not reflective of what a true democratic state should be.

Given a population of 100 million, what did the democracy that our forefathers fought so hard for amount to if only a handful of families are taking on key national posts? Being citizens of this democratic republic, we SHOULD take matters into our own hands by way of the upcoming 2013 elections. It is a chance for all of us to decide our country’s fate, whether we will give it a chance to delve into its vast potential for economic and political progress, or if we remain contented with where it is right now - a democratic presidential government that is slowly adapting the ways of a monarchy where “hereditary succession” seems to be the only road to power.

religion

negation is an option the right to say no

text by jeremiah john p. vardeleon artwork by anne catherine d. malazarte

The greatest enemy of the Catholic Church today is ignorance of the genuine and authorized teachings of the Faith. Indeed, we realize the truth to this as we ourselves witness the moral degradation of society unfold before our very eyes. Undeniably, this generation has become extremely disturbing as various kinds of sin are presented in the form of creative modern amusements tolerated for the sake of academic freedom or wanton expression of personal opinions.

GOING UPHILL

murder; in fact, a greater sin than murder, because the life of the soul is of far more value than the life of the body.

According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC# 2284), “Scandal is an attitude or behavior which leads another to do evil. The person who gives scandal becomes his neighbor’s tempter. He damages virtue and integrity; he may even draw his brother into spiritual death. Scandal is a grave offense if by deed or omission another is deliberately led into a grave offense.”

TAKING IT TO THE DEEP END

SINNING AND SIGHING

For example: one engages himself in indecent talks, uses his position to manipulate the weak, maligns others, behaves indecorously in the Church and in the classroom, or irresponsibly decries the Catholic religion and the holy ministers in the presence of the children.

St. Augustine reminded the faithful about the gravity of scandal when he said: “If you persuade your neighbor to sin, you are his murderer. And he who gives scandal is guilty of

Scandal is an offense against the love of one’s neighbor; that it is a mortal sin, as identified by the Church and the words that we gather from Our Lord concerning he who scandalizes others: “Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea. Woe to the world because of things that cause sin! Such things must come, but woe to

the one through whom they come!” (Matthew 18:6-7)

STICK NOT CARROT

In his homily at the opening of the 2005 Conclave and in the book Light of the World, Pope Benedict XVI encouraged the faithful to engage in fraternal correction by opposing the “dictatorship of relativism.” What he meant was that, the faithful must defend and follow not his truth, her truth, their truth, or our truth, but “THE TRUTH.” In our present state, we can do this by sending a strong message that enough is enough! That certainly, each and everyone has an obligation to admonish the wrongdoer.

Rev. Francis Spirago, the author of The Catechism Explained clearly describes the position of the Church (CCC#2487) when he says: “He who has injured his neighbor’s reputation is strictly bound to restore his good name; either by apologizing, if the offense was committed in private, or by publicly retracting his words, if they were spoken before others.

Further, those who do not

endeavor to repair the harm they have done by slandering their neighbor, cannot obtain pardon from God, nor absolution from the priest.”

Consequently, the Church warns us against participating in the sins of others through counsel, consent, provocation, erroneous flatteries, contribution to the crime, and most importantly, through silence, concealment and failing to punish the evil doer.

FULFILLING THE PROMISE

In the Eight Beatitudes enumerated by Christ, a promise is made by God to the just: “Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you (falsely) because of me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven. (Matthew 5: 10-12) Thus, let us be heartened by these words of God and try to live a holy life according to His will.

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In the course of fighting for the truth, many are lamenting the reality that the pillars of human justice are perceived to be mere ornaments of display.

Many were persecuted and mocked (among them were the saints, the prophets, the martyrs, and even Jesus Christ) by those who stubbornly remain at their post not to seek the truth and implement the laws with prudence and integrity, but to silence the just and suffocate the brave witnesses who went out of their way.

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society

Anatomy of Modern-day [S]HEROes “Man’s work ends at sunset. Woman’s work never gets done.” text by jesanny I. yap and rochelle louise D. doromal photos by thongenn lanz b. patiam

Women have definitely come a long way from being old-fashioned housewives who hold together the home, to CEOs of high-flying companies and leaders of the country. They have gradually broken the stereotype in which they were cast. And although women are expanding their lives to include a career, they still maintain their traditional roles at home.

For Truth and Justice: PO2 Mar Richel S. Rubio Secret Identity Revealed

the augustinian mirror vol. 79 no. 1 october 2012

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The role of the police in society can neither be overlooked nor belittled; without the police to enforce the law, which facilitates reduction and protects individuals, as well as national property, human coexistence would be unbearable, if not impossible.

Mar Richel Rubio of the Operation/Plans Section of the Iloilo City Police Office is one of those who see to it that these expectations are met.

Mar was a graduate of BS Computer Science at the Computer College of the Visayas before she took and passed the NAPOLCOM entrance exam.

Her Kryptonite

Mar’s ambition had always been to enlist in the military, influenced by the long line of military men in her family who have been supportive of her decisions. Adjustments in the workplace were minimal, too, because having grown up with

five brothers, she was used to being with men.

battling it out

Police work is perceived as a traditionally male domain because of the physical strength required and the dangers police officers are exposed to. Policewomen then have had to fight a hard, uphill battle for inclusion in the police force and, eventually, for respect for the attributes they bring to the force. It is a battle they continue to fight until today.

Under the Operations Department of the Iloilo City Philippine national police, she is among the personnel who are deployed during important events, such as the President’s delivery of the State of the Nation Address (SONA) or any other civic-cultural activities that require security. But despite all the crime-fighting she’s been into, she’s also a mother to three wonderful kids and has been married for 10 years now.

She admits that getting caught in so much office work gives her a hard time bonding with her growing children. “I only have four hours or less free time in a day. I usually take advantage of that period to rest and get some sleep. During holidays like Christmas or New Year, when everyone else is celebrating and the entire city is in high spirits, we remain confined within the four corners of our office doing our public service for the people,” she narrates.

But when she finally reaches home, exhausted from all the day’s work, she still tries to spend some quality time with her family. For some reason, all of the house chores remain the work of a woman.

Battle Cry

“Be brave in the pursuit of your dreams. If you want to enter this line of work, what you need is the proper mindset, motivation, and the principles to live by.”

Woman behind the Wheel:

Marilou E. Yocogco

Secret Identity Revealed

Not Your Typical ‘Girl On Fire’:

SINSP Melanie G. Habawel

Secret Identity Revealed

Her Kryptonite

By the time Melanie graduated, the Nursing profession had already been plagued by unemployment, leaving her no choice but to look for alternative jobs at that time and it was the Bureau of Fire Protection where she found her opportunity for employment.

“Like all others, I started at the bottom. I underwent mandatory trainings and procedures which I admit were very intimidating since they required physical strength and will power,” says Melanie. For

one, gender discrimination was very strong among her male coworkers. “When muscle power is involved, others just tend to belittle women’s capabilities.

Nonetheless, I have chosen to responsibly carry out my designated tasks and duties, and we all get along at the end of the day,” she adds.

battling it out

As the resident Senior Superintendent, she works for eight long hours, but her job does not end at the office.

After working, she goes home to take care of her 9-year old twins, her husband, and the house. “It’s all about time management and the right perspective. Eight hours in the office, eight hours for my family, and the remaining hours for some quality me-time - enough to keep things balanced,” she says. She remains as the primary caretaker and housekeeper of the family. And although this makes for a very demanding schedule, her passion for her family and her job makes it all worthwhile.

Battle Cry

“Half of the world’s population is female. Why not use this half to help the other half plan, formulate, evaluate, and achieve better results that are essential for socio-economic political development?”

Her Kryptonite

She took Civil Engineering at the University of San Agustin but was only able to finish her freshman year. So, like many Filipinos who are feeling the hardships of life in one package, Meloy also tried her luck searching for greener pastures and providing for needs of her family by applying as a factory worker in Taiwan. But as fate would have it, she needed to return home after only three years because of the meagre earnings she gained at the factory in Taiwan.

Hardships never hindered

her from helping her family rise above poverty. Meloy’s siblings owned tricycles and a cab; driving the vehicles was one way she thought she could help her family.

battling it out

With no husband and children to attend to, the day’s income is spent on her personal needs, her mother’s medications and the maintenance of her small business, a piggery. Hard work and perseverance have helped her surpass the many trials in her life and, although she may just be a driver for others, she has proven that a woman like her can be just as strong as a man to be a driver.

Battle Cry

“I never compare myself to other people because I know this will only distract or discourage me. Some dreams come true in a short span of time while others take a little longer. I simply keep believing in myself.”

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Historically, fire fighting has been dominated by men in both professional and volunteer contexts. But today, many women actively wrestle with fire alongside their male counterparts. One of them is 37-year old Melanie G. Habawel of the Bureau of Fire Regional Office 6.

A graduate of Filamer Christian Academy with the degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing, she joined the fire fighting unit in 1994. She took up the course Bachelor of Science in Public Safety at the Philippine National Police Academy and graduated in 2003. Now, she holds office as the Disbursing Officer of the BFP Region 6.

Give her the house work.

Give her the steering wheel. For sure she can handle both.

At 38, Marilou passionately drives both her tricycle and multi-cab in the streets of her hometown in Sambaludan, Oton. Known as “Meloy” to her neighbors, she offers transportation services for her friends’ children who go to school.

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He breathed heavily, clenched his fist, aimed it at a pimple-ridden face, and then BAM - slammed the little guy’s head on a locker door. He checked to see if anyone was around to witness what had just happened, or if the little guy was still conscious, even then, he couldn’t care less. He was too consumed by his anger at the little guy whose glance he mistook for sarcasm. That was by far the most vivid memory Mark had of the last time he ever bullied anyone back in high school.

*not his or her real name

the augustinian mirror vol. 79 no. 1 october 2012

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Currently in his third year in college, Mark was in no way hesitant to share his entire life story. “I was a good kid back in the elementary. I was never the trouble maker.” He lived with both his parents and two younger siblings until the 5th Grade. “After Grade 5, that was when things started to get difficult and the air at home just wasn’t the same anymore.” By this, Mark was referring to the time when his parents were on the brink of splitting-up. It started with petty fights that never got resolved; then his mom would move out of their house for weeks at a time. Mark was in a difficult position where he had to struggle between keeping his grades up and keeping his family intact. “From then on, I preferred not to stay at home; being with my friends seemed like a better option.”

argument and ganged up on a sophomore who was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. Mark and his friends were given disciplinary action and they thought that was the end of it.

Where it All Began

On Bullying

Mark was in his second year in high cchool when he found a group of friends he was comfortable with. “I was with a great barkada, they weren’t the most studious of people, but they were always there when I needed them.” His barkada was often identified as a rowdy group of students who meant no harm and were only out to have fun and make the most of their high school experience.

After class, they would usually hang out at a nearby tambayan outside their school campus.

One day, while Mark and his friends were eating merienda, an arrogant student picked a fight with one of Mark’s friends.

Out of “brotherly” instinct, the whole barkada joined in on the

CLENCHED SLAMMed confessions of a bully text by josefa maria a. castro photo by thongenn lanz b. patiam

Downhill

With things heating up at home because of his absent mom and his tainted reputation in school, Mark was more than happy to continue straying. “I felt like I had nothing to lose naman, eh,” says Mark. From then on, it was one fight after the other, from picking fights with younger students who gave him a dazed stare, to joining in with his barkada every time a brawl broke out. “It made us feel superior, knowing that nothing or no one could touch us.” It was at that time that Mark finally admitted to himself that he was, in fact, a bully.

Bullying can be manifested in many ways. It can be done physically and verbally, as Mark and his friends did. There is also such a thing as psychological or emotional bullying, and with the advent of technology, “cyberbullying”.

The habit of bullying is not something that happens overnight. In Mark’s case, all of the drama going on at home eventually led to his emotional fall-out. “I don’t blame my parents for what happened; I blame myself for not being able to handle the situation and my emotions,” shares Mark. He always felt angry during that time, with the notion that the whole world was against him, which is why he hardened - but

not in a good way.

Turning-point

“I eventually grew tired of the whole thing. I found it pointless to ruin the lives of others in the hope of making mine better. Looking back, I was embarrassed at most of the things I did.” Entering college, Mark and his friends didn’t get to hang out as much since most of them all went to different

schools. It was there where Mark felt like he had a chance to start fresh and create an image he wasn’t ashamed of anymore.

Facts and Figures

Statistics show that three out of 10 students are either bullies or victims of bullying.

According to the paper “Bullying in Middle Schools: An Asian Pacific Regional Study by the Asia Pacific Education

society

FISTS AND LOCKERS

roleplay ray adrian c. macalalag

do things they didn’t want to do; and 30 percent were left out of groups.

Last May, House Bill 5496, also known as the Anti-Bullying Act of 2012, was approved. It required all elementary and secondary schools to adopt antibullying policies. The bill requires that “anti-bullying policies be included in the school’s student and employee handbook; details of the policies should

be posted on school websites and school walls; schools shall submit their anti-bullying policies to the Department of Education (DepED) within six months upon effectivity of the law; bullying incidents in schools must be reported to the division superintendents, who in turn shall report to the Education Secretary; and the DepEd must submit a report on bullying incidents to the appropriate

congressional committee and impose sanctions on school administrators who do not implement anti-bullying policies.”

These are but numbers and figures that show us just how serious the issue of bullying is, and it is something that should be taken seriously, if not for Mark’s sake, then for all the little guys around the world who get shoved, mocked and slammed on locker doors.

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Review (2008, Vol. 9, No.4),” Filipino children have a higher rate of being “made fun of” by other children (57-58 percent) than school children in Australia, Hongkong, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore and Taiwan.

In all categories, the Philippines ranked higher than the rest: 39 percent experienced theft; 36 percent were physically hurt; 45 percent were forced to

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photographer thongenn lanz b. patiam • model joe anthony magbanua the augustinian mirror vol. 79 no. 1 october 2012

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selling points how to persuade without even trying text by stephanie kay l. urquiola photo manipulation by jerson e. elmido

What if, one day, someone told you that you had the ability to make people believe everything you said?

What if you could influence people to do something you wanted them to do? You don’t need to use a bait; you only need character, attitude, and sincerity.

Persuasion is the act of influencing people’s beliefs, attitudes, intentions or behaviors.

It aims at changing a person’s attitude or behavior towards an event, idea, object, or even another person.

“It is a way of influencing individuals to do something whilst holding a degree of influence,” Ms. Rosemarie Dichosa, a professor at

the College of Business Administration and Accountancy, remarked.

Persuasion may be conveyed through written or verbal form, relaying information and feelings to another person.

It is influencing other people to see things from your point of view.

A very good example is the social media. Imagine how a single status can change the entire Facebook world through the wonders of sharing and liking. A “people power” revolution in social media happened recently against the ratification of the Cyber Crime Law through the blackening of Facebook users’ profile pictures as a sign of their protest.

So how does persuasion work?

In his book, Robert Cialdini enumerates the six weapons of influence that help a person become a good persuader, namely: Reciprocity, Consistency, Social Proof, Authority, Liking, and Scarcity.

These are also known as

persuasion tactics.

Cialdini states that reciprocity is the act of trying to repay in kind what another person has done for them; people tend to return the favor.

This rule states that we are all driven to repay a debt that we owe someone. Cialdini also says that this is an “automatic reaction”. This kind of tactic is present almost everywhere – in classrooms, in business areas, even in our neighborhood.

For instance, you’re planning your guest list for your next birthday party, you have an acquaintance that you’re not on very good terms with but you have remembered that the person has previously sent you an invitation to his birthday party and so you feel compelled to do the same. The rule of reciprocity is a powerful influence that is nearly impossible to resist.

When making a decision, do you find yourself changing your mind later on or are you the type to stick to your decisions? If you chose the latter, you are an epitome of

society

the Rule of Consistency. The Rule of Consistency is “human nature”; it’s a characteristic that drives people to be consistent in all areas of their lives. May it be in deeds, words, beliefs, or principles – people are more likely to honor something they’ve done before. You may root for your favorite basketball team even when they’ve been lagging behind the past few seasons, or you may agree to lend someone money because last time, you did it, too. How can you make this work for

persuasion? Researchers say that the catalyst for consistency is commitment. “Once we have made a commitment, we will automatically have personal pressures that push us to stick to that commitment. It will cause us to justify our earlier decisions.”

Another tactic is the Rule of Authority, which is the principle that says people are instantly deferential to those in positions of power. The Rule of Authority is pertinent everywhere, especially among students who look up to their professors,

or consumers who avail themselves of products from retailers. Is authority enough to make people actually believe in everything you say? “Sincerity is a trait a good persuader should possess, a persuader with good values, of course.” Dichosa remarked. Sincerity should lead to credibility, which in turn leads to good marketing. Authority + Sincerity + Credibility = Persuasion.

This leaves us with Social Proof, Liking and Scarcity.

Social Proof is the undeniable fact that people are imitators.

Tendency is, when they see other people doing or taking part in something, they tend to follow suit.

Liking is similar to familiarity – people tend to gravitate towards or believe the words of those they know, so establishing a relationship is crucial. Scarcity is the belief that what is less in demand is more appealing to the eye.

They feel a sense of loss, which translates to the need of wanting the supply.

However, there is a dark side to the use of this skill if it is meant to mislead.

“Deception is an invalid form of persuasion; it is making the people around you unconscious of what is happening around them.” CBAA professor Evangeline Pajares explained. Deception is a tactical resource, more like cheating. It may also deal with treachery or white lies. Dichosa added that deception is indeed, a negative form of persuasion. It may also be seen as propaganda, or the act of using persuasion as an illusion.

Truth be told, persuasion is a special skill, and we all have the potential to develop it. Everything that we do to convince others to do something comes with a responsibility for every action that is made.

The world is full of trickery and deceit, deliberately making everyone believe in things that are not true. Thus, it is a matter of using this skill for a noble purpose that makes it positive.

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society

500 BAWAT kilo MAGKANO ANG KAYA MONG BILHIN? sulat ni jerson e. elmido dibuho ni anne catherine d. malazarte

niyang lumisan upang matigil ang kanyang hinagpis.

Kasama ang dalawang anak, lumipat siya sa kanyang mga magulang. Dahil sa maagang pagbubuntis at hindi nakapagaral ng kolehiyo, palipat-lipat ng trabaho si Bea,“Naging katulong ako, trabahador sa pabrika, promo girl, hanggang sa napadpad ako sa mga club.”

Hindi naman lahat ng trabaho sa club ay marumi ayon sa kanya. Meron daw mga katulad niyang maliban sa tini-table ay dinadala sila sa labas para may pandagdag kita. Salungat si Bea sa mga nagpapagamit sa labas dahil lalo lang daw nila

pinapababa ang tingin ng mga tao sa kanila. Aminado si Bea na hindi niya gusto ang ganitong uri ng pakikipagsapalaran ngunit kailangan niyang sustentuhan ang kanyang mga anak. “Walang trabaho ang mga magulang ko kaya hindi pwedeng umasa ako sa kanila”, paliwanag niya.

Di na bago sa atin ang sitwasyon ni Bea at malamang, sawa na rin tayo dito. Ang parang sirang-plakang isyu ng prostitusyon ay nananatiling huling alas ng mga nawalan ng pag-asa at may madilim na nakaraan. Hindi maitatanggi kung paano binago ng kalakal na ito ang buhay ng ilan sa mga

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Tulad ng ibang kolehiyala, lumalabas din si Bea sa gabi ngunit higit pa sa pagliliwaliw sa dilim ang pakay niya. Tuwing gabi kasi, nakakahanap siya ng kanyang ikinabubuhay.

Hanggang ngayon, sariwa pa rin kay Bea, 28, tubong Maynila, kung paano siya sinuntok at hinampas ng hindi lang bangko kundi nang buong sala set ng kanyang lasinggerong kinakasama. Tama lang para sumabog ang kanyang mukha. Ang masaklap ay hindi sinasadyang nasaksihan ng kanyang panganay na anak ang paghampas sa kanya. Doon na niya napagtanto na kailangan na

*hindi tunay na pangalan

Pinapatik ni Bea* nang daliri ang kanyang bolpen. Hudyat na nang pagtatapos ng kanyang klase sa hapon at sabik na siya rito. Kailangan na niyang makauwi at maagang makatapos sa kanyang mga takdang-aralin. Bukod kasi sa kanyang pag-aaral, kailangan pa niyang magpalit ng anyo.

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MULA SA RISERTS NINA MARY JOY ARGENAL, MARY SHERYLL P. BALLERAS, MAY VON T. PATINGO, RAQUEL T. ARTIEDA, ROSA LEA SALVADOR, AT ROMELYN VILLASIS USA COLLEGE OF COMMERCE, SETYEMBRE 1999

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nagbabakasakali at kumakapit sa talim nito. Sa kabila kasi ng patuloy na kampanya ng gobyerno laban dito ay nanatiling malakas at buhay ang industriyang ito. Ano nga ba ang dahilan at bakit matayog pa rin ang inabot ng mga kalapating tinaguriang mababa ang lipad?

Sa isang pagsusulat ni Michael Noer sa Forbes, binigyang diin ng mga batikang ekonomista na sina Lena Edlund at Evelyn Korn sa kanilang lathalain na “A Theory of Prostitution” in the Journal of Political Economy na ang prostitusyon ay isang propesyon kung saan hindi nangangailangan ng sapat na kaalaman at kasanayan ngunit makakapagtustos ng higit pa sa kinakailangan ng isang tao para mabuhay.

“Pagpalagay natin na sumasahod ako ng hindi bababa sa 10,000 piso kada linggo.

Wala pa ‘yung tip na minsan umaabot ng 1,500 kada araw ‘pag nakarami…” pagtatantya ni Bea. Daig pa raw niya ang mga empleyado sa bangko pagdating sa sweldo. Babuyan ang turing ni Bea sa labanan ng mga katulad niya sa Maynila.

“Mahirap, lalo na mahal lahat ng gastusin doon.” Kaya laking

pasalamat niya nang mapadpad siya dito sa Iloilo sa tulong ng isang kaibigan at dito na lang magtrabaho. “Dahil sa trabahong ito, nakapag-aral ako dito, nabayaran ko ‘yung nakasanlang bahay at lupa namin sa Maynila, at nakapagtayo na rin ako ng sariling bahay ko,” pagmamalaki niya.

Ayon sa Coalition Against Trafficking in Women - Asia Pacific (CATW-AP), tinatayang aabot sa 400,000 katao ang nabibilang sa prostitusyon taong 1998. Sa paglipas ng panahon, nanatiling buhay ang propesyong ito dahil sa ‘demand’ o pangangailangan ng tao. Tinalakay sa Philippine Star na umabot sa 62.9 bilyong dolyar ang kabuuang utang ng bansa ayon sa Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

Kung kakalkulahin ang mga nasambit na datos, tinatayang aabot lamang ng 12 taon at, mababayaran na ng bansa ang mga utang nito sa tulong ng prostitusyon!

Ang Republic Act of the Philippines No. 9208 o ‘yung tinatawag na Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003 ay batas na nangangalaga sa kapakanan ng tao lalo nang mga kababaihan at kabataan

upang labanan at puksain ang ‘human trafficking’ o ang illegal na pagkalakal ng tao sa layunin ng pananamantala sa sekswal na pagkatao at sapilitang paggawa.

Sinumang labag sa batas na ito ay may karampatang parusa na pagkulong sa bilangguan na aabot sa 15 taon o pagbabayad ng 500,000 hanggang 1 milyong piso.

Hindi naman nagkulang ang lokal na gobyerno ng Iloilo upang mapangalagaan ang mga mamamayan nito. Ayon kay Jorge L. Duron, tagapangulo ng Task Force on Moral and Values Formation (TFMVF), lungsod ng Iloilo, may mga hakbang na ginawa ang lokal na pamahalaan tulad ng “…smearing test, paggamit ng condom sa mga sex worker, at pagbawal sa mga menor de edad na makihalubilo tuwing gabi.”Ito ay alinsunod sa Regulation Ordinance No. 2002-237 – ang nagsisilbing sukatan upang mapagaan ang sekswal na kalakalan sa syudad.

Bukod dito,nakipag-ugnayan din ang TFMVF sa Kagawaran ng Edukasyon, upang maisakatuparan ang Journey to Eskwela for Development (JED) – Alternative Learning System (ALS) Literacy Program na naglalayong bigyan ng

pagkakataon ang mga sex worker na makapag-aral ng libre sa elementarya at sekondarya.

“Sa ngayon, may 23 na kababaihan mula sa kalye ang nag-aaral at may 53 na mga masahista ang nabigyan ng libreng pagsasanay sa kursong Massage Training NC II at ito ay pinagtibay ng Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA),” patunay niya. Naging positibo naman ang naging resulta ng mga programang ito dahil ayon kay Duron, bumaba ang bilang ng mga naitalang sex workers dito sa Iloilo kung ihambing noong nakaraang taon.

Samantala, patuloy pa rin si Bea sa kanyang paniniwala na sa ganitong uri ng trabaho lamang siya nakakahugot ng puwersa para harapin ang mga susunod na yugto ng kanyang buhay. Ngunit aminado rin siya na ang tinatamasa niyang lakas ngayon ay panandalian lamang.

“Naging halimbawa ako sa mga kasamahan ko at naingganyo ko din silang mag-aral at huwag umasa sa trabahong ito.

Gusto ko din maabot nila ang mga pangarap nila na walang tinatapakang batas kabilang na ang batas ng Diyos.”

or how amazing the human body is

source www.weirdfacts.com• compiled by Jesanny I. Yap and marylex g. Sumatra • graphics by jerson e. elmido

soCiety

Ang BAryAng mAy rABis sigaw kapalit ng sabaw sulat ni wilhelm c. lizada grapiks ni ray adrian c. macalalag

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di niya alintana ang nakakasunog-balat na sinag ng araw. Tagaktak ang pawis ngunit kailangan niyang magbilad upang maka-ipon ng kahit kakarampot lang na barya. gayunpaman, sa bawat pagkumpas ng kanyang kamay at pagsigaw, lahat ng paparoo’t paparito ay parang tutang sumusunod sa kanyang direksyon. Ang matagal ay ginagawa niyang madali. Ang masikip ay ginagawa niyang maluwag.

Sa ilang sandali, napuno niya ang isang pampasaherong dyip. pinihit na ng drayber ang manibela at nagsimula na itong umarangka. maya-maya, hinagisan siya ng limang piso sa kanyang paanan. buena mano para sa buong maghapong pagkakayod ng buto, at kapag nakarami ay tama lang na pantawid-gutom. gayunpaman, hindi ganito kadali ang lahat.

Kailangan pa rin niyang magingat mula sa pangil ng batas.

NAKAKAPAGOD TUMAHOL

“Nagtatrabaho lang ako para sa pamilya ko,” sabi ni Emil* habang abala sa pagtawag sa mga pasahero. Si Emil ay isa lamang sa mga nagkukumahog na tumatawag ng mga pasahero sa mataong lansangan ng

mandurriao. ang tawag sa mga tulad niya ay ‘barker’. “ang mga barkers sa ating sosyedad ay yung tinatawag nating ‘nuisance’ ng mga kalye.” Sabi sa wikang Ingles ni Dr. Humar aberia, isang sociologist sa central philippine university. aniya, ang mga barkers ang siyang tumatawag ng mga pasahero sa mga dyip kapalit ng perang pambayad sa serbisyo nila. Ngunit, ilegal ang pakikipagsapalaran ng mga tulad nila sa kalye. “mahirap para sa amin ang trabahong ito, kasi kailangan palipat-lipat kami ng puwesto.”

Sabi ni Emil. maingat daw niyang inaalam ang bawat galaw ng mga tao sa paligid tulad ng mga traffic enforser at mga drayber ng mga dyip.

2007, nakasaad sa Section 12 o prohibitions na ipinagbabawal ang sinumang makibahagi sa ‘barking’ na isinasagawa sa mga loading at unloading areas. “Sa pagkakaalam ko, tatlong daang piso ang multa kapag hindi ka sumunod sa ordinansa o di kaya’y isang linggong pagkakakulong.” pagaalinlangan ni Emil.

Bagama’t ganito ang nakasaad sa ordinansa tungkol sa mga barker, nananatiling nakatayo si Emil sa lansangan at nagbabakasakaling mapagaan ang mga hirap ng kanyang buhay. Di niya alintana ang peligro sa kalsada at ang pagkakataong mahuli siya ng mga may awtoridad. “Hindi ko lubos maisip kung ano ang masama kung tatawag

lang kami nga mga pasahero.

Nakakatulong pa nga kami sa mga drayber para mapabilis ang kanilang biyahe,” paliwanag niya.

PATAKARAN NG KALSADA

“marami nga ang mga regulation ngunit marami rin ang mga violation,” ani ni pinuela. “Sana magsilbing halimbawa ito sa mga nagpapatupad ng batas,” dagdag niya. Hindi maitatanggi ang kawalan ng tamang impormasyon sa pagpapatupad ng panuntunan dito sa ating lugar. ayon pa sa kanya, maliit na bagay lamang ito kung ihambing sa mga naglalakihang problema na kinakaharap ngayon ng ating lipunan.

Ngunit kung mabubuhay

lamang tayo at migiging kampante sa mga maliliit na mga problema, hindi malayong lalaki ito sa mata ng batas pagdating ng panahon.

Isang gabi ay minalas si Emil. Naging mailap sa kanya ang swerte dahil kaunti lang ang kanyang kita sa buong maghapong pagbabanat ng buto. Nanlulumo ang kanyang mga mata habang inaalala ang pamilyang naghihintay sa kanya. Hulog-balikat siyang umuwi sa kanilang bahay ngunit hindi pa rin siya nawalan ng pag-asa. ang apoy na tumutulak sa kanya upang lusungin ang malawak na dagat ay buhay na buhay at magsisilbing kandungan niya sa kabila ng mga pagbabanta sa kanyang kalayaan.

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ayon kay abraham pinuela ng Department of Humanities ng unibersidad ni San agustin, “ang punto dito ay ang pagdisiplina ng mga pumapasok sa trabahong ito, at ordenansa na dapat isapagbatas sa tulong mismo ng mga traffic policeman.” binigyang diin niya na ang pagsunod sa mga patakaran at pamamalakad ng mga may awtoridad sa lansangan ang siyang solusyon sa ilegal na trabaho ng mga barker. ayon sa Regulation Ordinance No. 2007-199 o ang Ordinance Re-Establishing Loading/Unloading Areas For Public Utility Jeepneys in the City of Iloilo na nilagdaan noong Ika-19 ng Disyembre,

*hindi tunay na pangalan

MAPANGIL NA bATAS

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soCiety

more thAn An empty spAce JUST HOW MUCH CAn OnE TAkE TO SUrvIvE text by ric martin l. libo-on photos by ray adrian c. macalalag

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Across the University lies a home.

Although he finds refuge in an abode that knows no walls, no doors and no windows, it is in this place where he has attained solace and affection along with his family.

To the unfamiliar eye, it may seem like an empty space, but for Arnel Villanueva, it is more than just a vacant piece of land. He considers it as an eventful sanctuary where his life unfolds as he plays the role of father to his children. He sees it as a refuge that binds their aspirations and desires together.

Chasing cars

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He cautiously looks at the other side of the road. He flashes his palm and signals the vehicle to stop as the other hand cradles a baby.

For almost a year, Arnel has been busy tapping car panels, asking for a penny at a time to collect at least a hundred pesos. He has been working untiringly to make ends meet.

A barker across the side gate of the University, and more than anything else, a father to his four-year-old son, Daniel, and his six-month-old child, Golden; he is undoubtedly a jack of two unpretentious trades.

“I bring my kids with me wherever I go, even when I’m working. I brave the heat of the sun just to make sure that at the end of each day, I can provide food for my family. I have my children to feed,” says the 43-year-old in Hiligaynon.

Sidewalk Nativity

“My wife left me,” he reveals. “ Given this kind of situation, I doubt if she even wanted to stay. I woke up one morning to learn she had just left me.” He was not surprised that his partner called it quits as life continued to put their relationship to the test.

“We have overcome a lot of

challenges,” he says, “but one unforgettable ordeal was when my partner gave birth at this particular site.”

Arnel recalls that fateful day. It seemed to be an “ordinary afternoon”. All that he could remember was when he dropped his whistle as he came rushing towards that familiar corner. His shaky hands wiped the sweat off his face.

His eyes were wide with fear and anticipation. The tension was building and anxiety was his initial reaction. Right in front of his very eyes, and in his very hands, was a new life begging for warmth and attention.

With the newborn in his arms, he was stunned. A strong sense of uncertainty conflicted with the emotions that he had inside. His wife’s delivery frightened the life out of him.

All this changed as he fixed his troubled gaze on the baby, his second child. He was unsure about everything but his soul was awakened by the infant’s first cry. “I couldn’t believe that this had happened. Golden is a gift and I’m doing everything that I can to give her the life that she deserves,” he says with a modest half-grin.

Homeless Place

As cozy as the bed that we have at home is the pleasant vision of this single-parent.

Yet reality tends to differ. In a homeless circumstance, Arnel’s story is just one among the many tales of society that speak of people living in unprotected comfort zones in the country and in the world.

According to the United Nations Statistics Division (UNSD), homeless households “are those households without a shelter that would fall within the scope of living quarters. They carry their few possessions with them, sleeping in the streets, in doorways or on piers, or in another space, on a more or less random basis.”

In an article published by the Urban Opportunities for Change Foundation, it is reported that in the Philippines, with a population of approximately 94 million individuals, 4.5 million people are homeless. In Metro Manila alone there are about 3.1 million informal settlers.

These households are usually seen in every corner and crevice of the city, families that literally live in roofless shelters,

believing that these hovels can provide them security and promote their well-being. These “shelters” basically lack a defined structure and physical makeup, leaving them undefended and vulnerable.

Philanthropist Megan Ravenhill, in her book, “The Culture of Homelessness”, says that “the home has many functions : protection from the elements, protection from crime, a place to rest, sleep, recuperate from stress, wash, toilet and clean one’s clothes; a place to keep one’s possessions, one’s personal space; and a place that confers social status.”

Dream House

“A home is very important to a family,” Dr. Nenita L. Villanueva, Director of the Guidance Services, shares in an interview. “A basic necessity in their physiological lives… it is a space where they privately express their love for each other; where one has dignity and a constant sense of security and belongingness.”

With a country mired in economic instability, one cannot deny the fact that poverty is the main adversary that taunts and

challenges the human will to live, thrive and survive. It gives us fewer options, leaving us to make a compromise between what we need and what we can only be provided with.

Dr. Villanueva asserts, “In retrospect, I can say that Arnel opted to stay in the city without a permanent domicile to earn money and to provide something for his children. It is his family that gives him true grit and inspiration.”

“We are okay, because I am with my children and that is all that truly matters,” Arnel says with fatherly pride. “I work hard and someday I will take them to a real house, a place which we can call our own, where we can begin a new life together as a family.”

A house comes in all shapes and sizes, but, however we define the homes that we live in, they still go beyond a concrete framework and a material composition. They are about the people living in these “sacred” spaces.

Perhaps, that corner near the University may not be vacant and uninhabited after all. Next time you look, you might find a “home” right there.

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Culture

fAshionABle

©

opycAt

nO nEEd FOr CArBOn PAPEr, CTrL+v WILL dO text by marylex g. sumatra graphics by ray adrian c. macalalag

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For a few minutes the world revolved only and only for her. From head to toe, she looked like a model straight out of a magazine, making the University corridors her personal fashion runway. People couldn’t tear their eyes away from her. She radiates splendor and sparkles in the extravagance of her clothes. But it all ended as another girl walked past her, wearing the same outfit she had on that she had pre-ordered last weekend so that she would be the first among her classmates to have the latest in fashion.

“You’re nothing but a second-grade, trying-hard, copycat!” This very line from the hit Sharon Cuneta film, Bituing walang Ningning, has become a classic retort imprinted on every viewer’s mind. Indeed, who wants to be branded as a copycat?

According to Black’s Law Dictionary, imitation is the process of copying, manufacturing and or reproducing a particular product belonging to an individual or entity and another person making it appear to be originally manufactured and/or produced by him, with the intent of gaining from it , without the consent of the originator.

In the book The Psychology Behind Trademark Infringement and Counterfeiting, J. L. Zaichkowsky explains that “rich people have certain products and brands that lower classes do not have. by having the same goods as those in the higher social class , the consumer can give the same signal that he or she is special and rich’.”

REALITy’S MASQUERADE

Tina*, a second year medical Laboratory Science student of the university admits that she patronizes imitated

goods, especially products in the fashion department. “I prefer buying fake products that are freely sold downtown. compared to the genuine ones, they are more affordable for students like me, given the limited weekly allowance my parents give me.”

Zaichkowsky further states in his book that, “consumers buy the product simply because the imitation is available in the right place, at the right price, and at the right time.”

Though a consumer may get positive feedback in the social belongingness aspect for her fake clothes, still, “donning imitation products for the cause of blending in is similar to a person donning a mask,” commented Sheila*, a student from the college of Engineering and architecture. when this happens, the masquerade will continue for as long as the secret remains a secret.

MORE THAN wHAT MEETS THE EyE

AFFORDAbILITy OvER QUALITy?

IN THE EyES OF THE LAw

Every unfair or unjust practice cannot go unpunished.

Every citizen, whether rich or poor, is still obliged to perform his or her duties within the proper context of the law. atty.

James Escalona, a city fiscal at Victorias in Negros occidental, pointed out that merely doing an imitation of a certain established, original product constitutes an illegal act since it violates the pertinent provisions of either the R.a. 8293, otherwise known as the Intellectual property code of the philippines; the R.a. 8203, or the Special Laws on counterfeit Drugs; and the penal code of the philippines, or the unauthorized and or illegal reproduction or manucture of government papers such as certain bank notes; whichever one applies to the matter in question.

The corresponding penalties differ depending on the gravity of the crime.

However, there is a common penalty among the three types of violation as identified by Atty.

Escalona: imprisonment ranging from 1 year to life imprisonment, and a fine ranging from P5,000 to p5 million.

THE DANGER zONE

If you buy a tumbler of mango shake, which will cost you more or less thirty pesos: the economic benefits are numerous considering that mango is produced by farmers, ice is produced by another person, and milk, sugar, the plastic tumbler and the straw are produded by still other people.

Dr. aberia points out that buying the original will benefit the whole society, benefit the manufacturers and also the

people engaged in producing particular items. This is called the downstream effect. whether we like it or not, we cannot deny the fact that counterfeit products do indeed draw patronizers just as a magnet draws metals. In terms of marketing strategies, “there is a greater proven value in imitation rather than in innovation,” so stated Jeff Rendel, an acclaimed speaker, and president and founder of Rising above Enterprise, in an online article. Still, imitation branded as ‘ILLEGAL’ is still disadvantageous in many ways.

From a macroperspective, imitation is not just cheating society in terms of product quality; it is also making the whole country suffer if tolerated.

STOP, CHECK, bUy

It is undeniable that the power of counterfeit products over consumers is hypnotizing.

Even with the obvious differences in the products, people still choose the fake ones despite their inferior quality, misspelled labels and all. most often, people take this for granted, thinking that it has no adverse effect on anything. but we all know now. besides, only one thing is sure: in the end, no one wants to be caught dead in an identical, fake outfit that another person has, even on a regular Friday at school - so not cool.

When people find out that the slippers you’re wearing are identical to the one’s worn by another, but yours are HaVaNaS while those on the other person’s feet are HAVAIANAS, then they’ll say you’re just a second rate copycat. In fact, nothing about imitation and fakeness is cool at all.

So, fake Levi’s anyone? or Swatch, or guess, or Rolex, or ipad, or...the list of imitated goods goes on and on and on...

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The real problem is far more dangerous. counterfeit medical pill and supplement sales are widespread throughout the world. people who are sacrificing genuine labels for inexpensive, fake counterparts receive no benefit and may even be harmed by unknown substances added to the composition of those untested products. one of the common marketing and economics principles states that majority in society will tend to patronize goods that are affordable.

Dr. Humar aberia, a sociology professor at central philippine university (cpu), opined, “I don’t totally agree with it (imitation), but imitated products do have their advantage, that is, is their very low price. However, the product quality is very poor.” a case that proves the high risk involved in counterfeit products was printed in a book by Roger meiners, et. al., entitled The Legal Environment of Business. “In San Diego, a weak baby formula sold with counterfeit labels could have caused allergy and nutrition problems in infants.” The book

further stated that a market with fake products is a “complicated, sophisticated market with much at stake.”

*not his or her real name

Imitation is also used to mean ‘pirated’. When we talk about multi-companies, we mean counterfeit. The world customs organization estimates that counterfeit goods generate more than $500 billion in sales a year - the money representing the amount lost by the owners of intellectual properties (Ip) from the sale of goods produced illegally. according to *mrs.

Sy, owner of a chain of pharmaceutical stores in Negros, she herself has also been a victim of counterfeit products, more specifically, counterfeit drugs. “as a businesswoman, I have undergone several downward trends in sales all because of counterfeit drugs.” “actually, sometimes, one cannot distinguish the genuine from the counterfeit due to the

fact that in terms of physical features, the two are identical. only after running some specific tests can the consumer determine the genuine from the fake,” added *mrs. Sy. In the competition against counterfeit drugs, the real thing is usually found on the losing end; and most of the profit goes to the fake drug due to its economical price and identical packaging. Looks can be deceiving, and the consumer is made to believe that what he or she bought for a very low price is the genuine drug when it is actually a counterfeit.

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culture

faith healing: the burning truth is there something beyond our senses? text by joyce gem m. caÑete artwork by anne catherine d. malazarte

“Nong Boy, buligi ko anay... daw malipong ko.” Those were her last words as the stabbing pain induced by a creeping nonentity in her belly slowly blurred her vision, clouding the sight of what she’s becoming. “…..naghigda ako. Nagdamo sila [neighbors] nagsalalaka.

Naglaw-ay kuno akon tsura.

Grabe kuno akon waras kag galupad ko.”

Nang Girlie did not realize she was possessed. Upon waking up, she was exhausted.

Her eyes couldn’t believe what she saw. Standing in front of her was a man she described as “..may kalayo siya. Ang iya kamot daw kay Kristo, daw ginlansang.

Dason sa likod niya dampi ara ang korte ni Jesus. Sigurado gid ko ya.”

TO HEAR IS TO KNOW

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“Hindi ni siya abilidad.”

Nong Boy, a resident of Tanza, Timawa, Molo, insists that it is not he who heals but the Lord. “I invoke the Holy Spirit to guide me, shield me, and protect me antes ko magheal sa isa ka tawo.” There are no rituals involved, just pure invocations.

Nong Boy shared that everyone who comes to him is healed as long as his faith is strong and he believes in God. Nong Boy started doing healing in 2003. It was his young “Master” who taught him how to perform this. “Sang una namangkot gid na siya [Master] sa akon sang wala pa ako gapangheal, ‘Boy, gusto mo na nga mangbulong ka?’ Wala pa ko na nag-accept sang una.

Later on, mga one week lang,

nag-abot na ti ginbaton ko na.”

Exorcism is generally the hardest task for him. He explains that once a person is possessed, his spirit leaves his body then the demons move in. As a healer, he does not cast them out, but burns them with the help of the Holy Spirit. He alleges, “Kung kinahanglan lansangon siya, ilansang ko siya sa semento.” By this, he means that he is capable of “pinning down” a demon on the floor during an exorcism. “…ang demons hindi kapalapit sa akon kay masilaw ako. Amo na ginakulbaan nila sa akon.”

He further shares that the holy angels surrounding him make all this possible and just by laying his hands on a demon, it would bawl. He would usually know if a possessed person is healed when she starts to calm down.

TO EXPERIENCE IS TO BELIEVE

Nang Girlie is an unbeliever in supernatural things but her personal experience changed all that, and her faith as well. While unconsciously undergoing the exorcism, she said she saw a lot of things including the horrific figures of demons. Her face looked rather terrified as she recalled the images of small, white and black demons - all apparently burning.

“Una-una, wala ko gapati sa iya. Ti sang gasakit pa,

nagpabulong ko sa iban nga manogbulong. Wala gid nakuha.

Dayon, nagpa-hospital ko; wala man resulta ang doctor. Wala man ko sakit kuno, amo na nagbalik ko kay Nong Boy,” she narrated.

TO ASK IS TO UNDERSTAND

The field of medicine is not really against faith healing. It is more of an option for a patient whether or not to undergo such healing. The important thing is that the healing process must not do any further harm to the patient. Similarly, doctors won’t stop a patient from visiting a faith healer, as long as the illness is terminated rather than aggravated.

However, some believe that this is rather a state-ofmind pain. “May ginatawag nga physogenic pain. Wala deperensya lawas mo pero may pain ka nga mabatyagan so psychological ang pagpakonsulta mo sa faith healer nga ini. Kung ang belief mo is maayo ka, all he needs to do is to suggest to you nga maayo ka. Daw power of suggestion bala nga madula sakit mo,” Dr. Adeno Bermejo, former Pharmacy Department head explained. “Actually, ikaw man ang gapaayo sang lawas mo. It is not directly nga siya lang.”

Lack of medical findings

does not suggest the absence of illness itself. There are forms of pain that are not associated with the physical condition, but with the mental one. “There are things nga indi mo ma-explain sa science. Kun mabulong mo using medical ways, ti bulngon mo eh. Kun indi, i-psychological mo siya. Basi kinahanglan mo siya i-refer sa psychologist, pero it does not mean nga kun may disease ka, may problema ka na sa tissue or organ mo,” Dr. Bermejo clarified. “Kun waay siya mag-ayo, mabalik man na gihapon symptom niya. Initially, on the medical side ka gid kay amo na aton nga normal practice and because wala gid man direct scientific evidence ang healing nga ini.”

Well, in Nang Girlie’s case she, along with her children, was healed through faith alone.

Without spending a single penny, she only “paid” with regular attendance at mass and a lot of prayers. She said in a thankful voice, “Wala gid ya bayad biskan sa kapoy kag pulaw niya.” Nong Boy would simply suggest to his “liberated” clients to pray and go to the chapel for a “cleansing”. This way, the demons would no longer come back.

“Dapat man sila magpati kay dira ko nag-ayo mo..kun nakaagi sila, dira sila mapati,” Nang Girlie concluded.

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Lucid dreaming when the body is asleep and the mind is awake text by genessa a. buenafe artwork by anne catherine d. malazarte

Then, I saw my reflection.

With my eyelids half open, my eyes slowly focused on what was in front of me: same eyes, same nose, same hair color, a reflection of me. But it was different, a reflection would follow anything I did; but everytime I winked or opened my eyes wider, my reflection remained asleep. In mild frustration, I began to turn to my right to resume my slumber, but as I did, I realized there was no bed to turn around in.

At that moment, I knew only four things that were exactly true: one, I was awake; two, I was awake in my drea; three, I was awake in my dream, floating above my own body; and four, I was lucid dreaming.

Roots of the Dream

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An excerpt from Stephen LaBerge’s book Lucid Dreaming demonstrates that the early people of the world already experienced the so-called lucid dreaming: “For often,” wrote Aristotle, “when one is asleep, there is something in consciousness which declares that what then presents itself is but a dream.” From this we see that among philosophically inclined Athenians of the fourth century B.C., lucid dreaming was a familiar experience. The same may well be true for the fortieth century B.C., since it seemed likely that people had been having occasional “lucid dreams”, had they possessed a word for “dream.” However, it was not until the fourth century A.D. that a written account of a

lucid dream had been found.

According to Stephen LaBerge, the earliest written account of a lucid dream in Western history is preserved in a letter written in 415 A.D.

by St. Augustine, who wrote of the different experiences of Gennadius, a physician of Carthage, in a lucid dream. He even argued that the dream was an afterlife experience considering the fact that he was conscious but his physical senses were no longer working. This was followed by a written account of the Tibetan Buddhists who experienced lucid dreaming by practicing a form of yoga designed to maintain full waking consciousness during the dream state. Written accounts sprung up from Arab, Europeans, Chinese, Thomas Aquinas and Sigmund Freud, to the recent modern-day researchers.

These people tried to uncover the mystery between the mind and its capacity to inflict these phenomena on people’s lives. Still, there is no definite conclusion on lucid dreaming, only theories.

Science of the Dream

It has been said that mentally average human beings learn to utilize only10 percent of their brain capacity as they reach adulthood. Some exceptions are those who are constantly capable of using more than 10 percent of their mental capacitythe scientists. But, according to Discovery International, there is that one time of the day when

almost every area of the brain comes alive. This unison of continuous electric signals in the brain produces what we come to know as a dream.

Only one area of the brain ultimately shuts down: the logic center. Thus, it explains the endless possibilities and all the illogical things that occur in our dream, like for instance, a bunny singing, people floating or maybe money raining from the sky. We let these surreal dreams pass simply because the logic center is temporarily shut down.

But sometimes, this is not the case. People dream even before the logic center shuts down completely. When something is quite off in the dream, we would just chuckle and say, “My dreams are weird.”

In the awareness of a dream, we command things in order, or we even attempt unworldly things inside of our dream.

birth of a dream

As seen in the 2010 film by Christopher Nolan, “Inception”, the characters, through technology, utilize their dreams to create, to convince and to influence a person’s mind, while at the same time being aware that they’re just dreaming.

Flying. Building. Running.

Talking to a deceased loved one. Just don’t tell yourself to wake up just yet and the possibilities will be endless.

According to LaBerge, experiences vary from person to person, depending on each one’s memory and past experience, and how he or she

perceives the images and gives a representation of the world.

Like conscious thought, lucid dreaming is an ability that can be gained though or improved by training. In order to realize that you are dreaming, you need, first of all, to have a concept of what dreaming is. What happens when you “realize you are dreaming” will depend upon what you understand “dreaming” to be.

That explains why not all people can lucid dream simply by following steps. It takes a lot of brain power to construct a dream, live in it and control it. Like conscious thinking, it is not inherent but learned and developed.

culture

facets of a Dream

But not all dreams turn out the way we want them to; a normal dream can, a lucid dream could.

“I was dreaming of riding an expensive car when I realized I couldn’t control the car’s direction in my dream anymore.

Disturbing images began to flash from my side of the window and my dream became so disorganized and undefined,” stated Cara (not her real name), a two-year lucid dreamer, “My lucid dream turned into a lucid nightmare. It was hard to wake up especially if you forgot where you were sleeping.”

According to Rebecca Turner in her other article, “Lucid Nightmares: Can

Lucid Dreaming Become Nightmares?” Lucid nightmares occur when the dreamer is aware of events but loses the ability to willfully control them.

The subconscious mind takes over and delivers a message to the dreamer in as much emotionally-wrenching graphic content as it deems necessary.

In truth, the subconscious mind plays a very active role in lucid dreaming. And when the subconscious decides to air some anxieties, you have a nightmare. If you happen to be lucid at the time, your perception of the coming events will be considerably heightened.

Like Cara, not all dreams turn into happy ones. Therefore,

addiction to lucid dreaming is not always a healthy practice especially if the person has recent experience of anxiety or fear. It is important to let the dream happen rather than forcing it to. It is a matter of letting the brain do its wonders on its own.

So the next time we wake up in a dream, let’s appreciate and acknowledge all the work our brain put up with, for it to give us a clear message, a reminder, or a scene from the day that was very memorable; let’s not abuse our minds and let the phenomena take place because it is not every day that we find our body asleep and our brain wide awake.

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“The benefits of lucid dreaming are far-reaching.

You can take on a new life in lucid dreams, free of all your fears and inhibitions, confident that you can do absolutely anything. You can improve problem solving skills, creativity, courage, and confidence, and explore alternate realities,” states Rebecca Turner in her article, Lucid dreaming after all is but a dream where mistakes have no emotional weight, unlike in real life where critics abound. Learning without giving a care to the number of mistakes one makes is a privilege lucid dreaming can give.

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Breaking Boundaries of being different and finding the courage to fit in text by genessa a. buenafe photos by ray adrian c. macalalag

model jenny phine a. sinaon the augustinian mirror vol. 79 no. 1 october 2012

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culture

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Penetrating stares. Silent criticisms.

Walking on concrete hasn’t felt any harder than falling on it when everything else you see is turned upside down: people staring at you when you pass by, smiling at how silly you look, and talking about the “stranger” - you.

Unlike the rich and beautiful who are called eccentric by “lesser mortals” for their different ways, the simple and ordinary are considered STRANGE, although it is also for the different things about them. This is the cost Pharmacy students and sisters, Salwa and Heba Al-jazairy, have to pay since they first entered the University of San Agustin; the campus culture is a far cry from the Islamic culture in which they were born and raised.

“I just thought my sister and I were having a vacation here in the Philippines; then suddenly, we were enrolled,” Salwa, Heba’s older sister, said, “so that was the start of our life here in the University. Only, I didn’t expect it to be hard, living two different cultures at once; I knew it was hard.”

This isn’t the first time that the Muslim sisters have been immersed in a Catholic community; their mother is a Filipino Catholic after all; but this is the first time they have

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found themselves doing a delicate balancing act between two different cultures. And no one could prepare them for the weight of their being different.

“Hard, very hard. We have to commute like, for one hour, and we’re not that at all used to the food. We’re eating chicken fillet almost everyday!” Heba laughed. What food to eat was a big struggle for both of them but not as much as how they were treated socially. There was always someone to ask, but the major struggle was to know how and to pick the right words to say to a complete stranger.

While some people can break out of their shells easily, it wasn’t that easy for Heba and Salwa who are considered DIFFERENT by a community such as ours.

“The first day of school was ‘suffocating’; I didn’t know which way to go,” Salwa, said. Being a freshman was bad enough, but not knowing where to go and sticking out like a sore thumb made it twice as hard to get anywhere, “I was so nervous to ask anyone. What if I couldn’t understand? What if the person I asked couldn’t understand?” adds Heba.

Social issues were the first problems but later it was the differences in culture as well as religious customs that stood as

Unity in diversity is a famous Augustinian tagline that pertains to the various departments of the University coming together as one...

tall concrete boundaries that prevented them from living up to their potential. It has been acknowledged that Islamic culture and Catholic culture diverge in a number of ways: in the type of animals they should eat, in the sacraments they follow, in how they dress, in how to pray and to whom they pray.

Practicing and staying true to their Islamic culture without doing anything that would offend the Catholics is a challenge both sisters do not face alone; they have their Filipina mother to guide them all the way.

“Luckily for us, our mom is always there to remind us about what to do in so many things,” Salwa said. As a smile turned up on Salwa’s face, Heba looked down sadly.

“We had to leave Dad so we could come to school here.

He still has work in Kuwait,” explained Heba, “We miss him, that’s why, after every semester, we make sure to go visit him. It was hard leaving him there. It is something we are not entirely used to doing.”

Besides those boundaries, another one surfaced - both sisters found themselves struggling to keep their grades

afloat. People were still staring at them because they were wearing their hijab [a veil covering the head and neck], there were still so many words they could not understand, and they were still missing their father who is on the other side of the planet. It was about time that these boundaries would fall, not all at once for every trial has its own course and a lesson to give, but a few at a time.

“Step by step, we started reaching out to our classmates.

When we were in second year, we helped each other to be independent,” Salwa revealed, “We decided not to be classmates anymore, but we still had communication between us.”

Unity in diversity is a famous Augustinian tagline that pertains to the various departments of the University coming together as one; in the same way that both Muslim girls, despite their religious and cultural differences from the rest of the community, have started to be assimilated into the Augustinian family, though they are not Catholics.

“We finally learned how to fit in although some people may still stare; but, it’s okay,” adds Heba, “Being different is not bad at all.”

sCi-teCH

FrOM InSTAnT FOOdS, InSTAnT TALkS TO InSTAnT SAvE And SHArE OF CAPTUrEd MEMOrIES, TECHnOLOgY drIvES OUr EXISTEnCE. text by joel s. sastrillo photo by mark lendell pastrana

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plug, chArge...driVe!

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The ingenuity of a human person produces unlimited stocks of brand new things to ease our life. From the days of vintage fans and lights to our contemporary ”instant” time - instant foods, instant communications, instant save and share of captured memories - technology seems to drive our existence.

It was a Monday morning when the sky opened up and drenched the earth; the highway was free from the usual traffic, except for our vehicle...and another one that overtook ours - a speeding jeepney that blasted black fumes right in our direction.

Yes, with its speed, it had beaten us to our destination by a couple of hundred yards, leaving us gasping and gagging as we inhaled its carbon emission. The adverse effect on our pulmonary system and the environment was instantaneous.

Someone cursed; most of us closed our eyes and covered our noses; another launched into a “privilege speech” calling for change.

Indeed, we need change; our environment needs change, urgently. And here comes from just around the corner the possible solution to our problem on declining human health conditions and climate change the e-jeepney. This new-kid-onthe-block is out to challenge the

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“passad” that has spewed toxins into the air for almost as long as the jeepney has ruled the road.

Magic on Track

Greenpeace.org says that by 2050, the transport sector will constitute more than 30 percent of the global greenhouse gas emission.

Revolutionizing one of the iconic public vehicles in Asia by powering it with renewable energy could make a significant contribution to avoiding emission from fossil-fuelled vehicles.

The jeepney, the cultural icon of the Philippines, creatively designed out of the leftover of World War 2 American troop vehicle, the jeep, is the cheapest means of commuting anywhere in the country. It is THE transport vehicle of choice for most Filipinos, as the tuktuk is for the Thais or the rickshaw for the Chinese. In contrast to its noble purpose, it is a major pollutant to the environment because it runs on diesel fuel

that emits toxic fumes, posing a high health risk for drivers and commuters alike.

Thus, the e-jeepney, short for electric jeepney, was conceived to lessen the amount of carbon emission in the country. It was the brainchild of Green Renewable Independent Power Products Inc. or GRIPP, in partnership with Mr. Robert Puckett of Solar Electric Company in the Philippines.

Making its first public appearance coasting along Ayala Avenue, Makati City on July 1, 2008, the e-jeepney is the first public transport system of its kind in Southeast Asia.

As a unique vehicle, the e-jeepney has been classified by and registered with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulating Board as a 4-wheeled, low-speed vehicle or LSV. Running on an alternative fuel (electricity) at a maximum speed of 40 km/h, to as far as 120 kilometers on an 8-hour charge from an electrical outlet, the e-jeepney packs a lot more

features than its small size belies. Fact is, it can even carry as many as 17 passengers.

Manufactured by PhUV Inc., the business arm of the Motor Vehicle Parts Manufacturer Assn. of the Philippines (MVPMAP), the e-jeepney is equipped with a 5-kilowatt, 72-volt electric motor, or the bigger 7-kwilowatt, 84-volt one, with or without transmission.

It was the first vehicle in the country to have been issued an orange license plate by the Land Transportation Office.

On the Go

With much less attitude than the usual speeding smoke belchers plying the roads, the e-jeepney has a more decent way of ruling the streets.

“Obviously, e-jeepneys are environment-friendly because they do not emit carbon like ordinary jeepneys do,” Engr. Peter Simon Gemora, Project Engineer of Jamora Enterprises and the Engineering Department of Marymart Mall,

Stuck in the Mud

On the flip side, nothing is perfect, as with everything else.

There are ruts in the road in which the e-jeepney finds itself stuck. “Compared to ordinary jeepneys, LSV’s cannot run as fast, especially in emergency cases. Also, it cannot climb hilly places because it has less energy to power it up,” Engr.

Gemora explained. He added that the LSV is not flood-friendly considering that it is electricitygenerated. Its batteries could easily be destroyed if they got soaking wet, thus, posing danger to the riding public.

The high cost of electricity is one of the banes of consumers in Iloilo City.

Gemora said the Motorpool at the City Engineers ‘Office could only serve as a charging outlet for a number of e-jeepneys owned by private individuals, (serving some gated subdivisions and barangays in the city, particularly the senior citizen groups), not as the provider of sustainable e-jeepney service for the riding public because of the exorbitant cost of electric consumption that PECO

charges.

Despite its climate-friendly advantage, the e-jeepney remains merely a dream for many Filipino drivers to own and use for a profitable income.

Another sad fact is that some of the e-jeepneys that have been acquired by the Gemora group supposedly to be sold to environment-loving Ilonggos are just stashed at the parking lot of Marymart Mall, gathering dust, cobwebs and other creepy-crawly creatures because there have been no other takers. And to think that the opportunity to lessen pollution and clean the air in our community was available, yet only a few grabbed it.

The Road Less Travelled

The e-jeepney still needs years of trying to endear itself to the madlang pipol and to dethrone the road royalties like the venerable “Sarao” or our very own innovative “Patoo Wheels”.

But despite the long road it has to steer through ahead,

the e-jeepney’s environmentfriendly features will eventually make inroads into the Filipino transportation industry and the psyche of the riding public as commuters will start feeling the urgent need for cleaner air when their coughing, wheezing, sneezing, and sniffling dominate the soundscape.

This modern revolutionary vehicle and its iconic, vintage “manong”, the jeepney, have differences in features, performance, and attitude, but they do share a powerful purpose in common - they take us to where our heart is – our work, our community, our home. For this, we show the two jeepney types our deepest appreciation.

There are still many roads not taken, just waiting to be discovered. As long as there are minds that imagine and hearts that believe, the possibilities are endless for our creative powers to drive us to the clean and fresh utopia of an environment that we have always longed to have.

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told the Mirror’s e-edge. He said their company brought 10 e-jeepneys to Iloilo City because “e-jeepneys are also not noisepolluters.” This he said in jest.

In an article on the Greenpeace.org site, it is said that the e-jeepney has the best shot at increasing the income of drivers because it reduces their expenses on diesel fuel. Moreover, it is a viable investment because it cuts down on maintenance costs, since it simply needs a plug and a charge for it to go.

Interviewed by the Asian Journal, Greenpeace Southeast Asia Campaign Director Von Hernandez applauded the e-jeepneys for “they are clear examples of our “Simple Lang” project that calls upon Filipino citizens and institutions to adopt simple yet effective measures to help avert the catastrophic climate change.”

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campus

being in the Teacher’s Skin are you ready to face the class? text by febrielyn s. tumines photoS by daniel p. abutas

She was explaining something about panag-uri and simuno in class...and we were busy doing a High School Musical act in the back, chiming “bop, bop, bop, bop to the top!” with our hands raised in the air.

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Our cheering ceased when she abruptly left the room, like a celebrity walking out on a rude interviewer. We never asked questions anymore; we knew it was our fault. Ms. V was trying hard to review us for the National Achievement Test, while we were trying harder to master the Bop to the Top act instead of listening to her explain the significance of simuno and panag-uri in a pangkaraniwang pangungusap.

I didn’t fully understand her, though; I thought she overreacted.

Teachers act weird sometimes, and like other students, I find it hard to understand their actions.

But what irony! Of all the PupPips, I was the one chosen to be Teacher for an hour and a half, on an “undercover mission” to investigate whether the authority of a teacher

could really be delegated to or assumed by someone else without it being questioned.

My undercover preparations

Despite the group reporting and the audit report I had to sink my head into, I went about with my undercover preparations in just under six hours to master my lesson. It was going to be a Sociology class with Information Technology students; my lesson would be about deviance (Good heavens...it was also our group report in second year!). Of course, I’d already made up my identity which I kept repeating in my head, “I’m Emily Estrallanes, 22, PolSci graduate, a teacher.”

Thanks to my friends, I really looked like “Professor” Emily Estrallanes, with the make-up, outfit, and eyeglasses.

I tried. Yes, I really tried hard to leave my 19-year old

self at the door and enter as a 22-year old teacher. There were wondering glances of course, but I felt they didn’t spring from the thoughts, “Who is she? What is she doing here?” Instead, I believed the students were staring at me with raised eyebrows and unspoken questions such as, “OMG, her heels are barely two inches high!” or “Her blush-on is too thick!,” or just maybe, “By golly, her outfit’s over-the-top!”

First act: Epic fail?

Before the play could start, I saw the curtains closing in on me - two of the students looked vaguely familiar to me and I thought they did the same way, too. But they were more than just familiar - they knew enough of my true identity. One of them was my classmate in Theology in second year and the other was an acquaintance introduced by a

friend years ago. I thought I was doomed; my teacher act would become an epic fail. Fortunately, neither of them said a word nor gave me away. I guess, they decided to just play along with me and pretend, too.

No one questioned my popup appearance and it looked to me as if they were totally convinced (except perhaps for the two I’ve mentioned). “I’m Ms. Emily Estrallanes, Prof. X’s former co-teacher in another university here in Iloilo City. I’m here because I asked Prof. X to allow me to take over one of his classes and to critique my teaching style, since I’m new in the academe. I believe he has already explained the situation to you,” and I flashed my best promise-hope-to-die smile.

On crickets and awkward glances

I started the lesson with

seriously.

“Amazing! What a brilliant idea!”

When a student could not answer my question ( “Uhm… uhm… no idea, Ma’am”), I would chime in, “Amazing! What a brilliant idea!” Though I did not make them squirm with piercing glances and recorded recitation (a typical “terror professor’s” strategy), I didn’t spare them my sarcasm.

I was already talking about social controls and I asked my students to give an example of how parents could serve as external control. A student named Bryan stood up and answered, “My parents told me not to smoke. Those mother#$%^@!* told me I shouldn’t smoke!” The class erupted in laughter while I stared out the window at the darkness beyond, faced with a dilemma:

how I was going to handle this situation. Quickly, I formulated some options: a. Ask him what’s wrong with him. b. Tell him to apologize. c. Tell him I would not let it pass and he must see the dean. d. All of the above.

Unfortunately, my mouth got a mind of its own, and all Bryan got was, “Refrain from saying foul words especially in the classroom...,” uttered with my most stoic poker face.

God knows, I badly wanted to go back to that time just to change everything I said and did. I continued my lesson as if nothing awful had happened and went on to discuss the biological theories of deviance.

“Ok class, get one-fourth!”

Hours ago, I was a student and I hated it, but now that I

had become a “teacher” and would be able to do pretty much everything I wanted in the classroom, I learned to love this part of the lesson that majority of the students dread - the quiz. They were like, “Di lang bala, Ma’am!”, and I was like, “After the lesson, it is assumed that you’re ready for a quiz. It’s your responsibility as students, so please get one-fourth!” At the back of my mind I had this thought, “Does a teacher enjoy giving quizzes? Does a teacher truly feel her authority by giving tests?” At that moment, as a “teacher”, I felt powerful because if there was somebody who knew all the answers even to the hardest questions in this test, well, it was me. Bwa-haha-ha!” Admittedly, that was a wicked thought.

Before we checked the papers, I declared, “Score times two!” They replied, “Times

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as much enthusiasm as I could muster, but the students were simply giving me the “silent treatment”. I almost felt paranoid wondering about what was going on in their minds. Since the class started at 5:30 pm, I had to compete with the crickets making such a racket in the background, so I had to raise my voice. But the louder I spoke, the noisier the crickets were, too. The race was on. Had I known I would be in a “louder than thou” contest, I should have brought a microphone and an amplifier!

In the midst of this ruckus, I felt as if I was in somebody else’s head, as if I didn’t know who was talking. I wasn’t scared standing and talking before the class, but the attention they were giving me was unnerving.

They were looking at me as if I knew all the answers to their questions. I felt God-like,

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two gid Ma’am?” I thought again, teachers do have plenty of secrets in making their students freak out. Haven’t the students realized that even if they multiplied their scores by as high as ten or twenty, the computed average equivalent would still be the same? Their scores ranged from Very poor, Poor, Average, Good to Very Good, but mostly in the Very Poor and Poor ranges. It got me into thinking, “Was it because I didn’t deliver the lesson well, or they were really not listening?”

Ten minutes before the time, I gave them a quick run-through of the next lesson and, to end my agony, I called out the mostawaited instruction, “Please lead the closing prayer,” and later, my heartfelt, “Goodbye, class!”

The dreaded aftermath

the augustinian mirror vol. 79 no. 1 october 2012

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If you ask what became of me after my role playing, I must say that was the part I dreaded the most. My knees jiggled like jelly and my throat became sore after I talked for the longest time ever in my whole life. That’s not an exaggeration because I’m not really a talker in the classroom (or even out of it), unless I have to give a report or take part in a graded recitation.

If there’s one reason why I didn’t sleep well that night, it was the agony of waiting for the feedback. My mission was to investigate whether the authority of a teacher could really be transferred to or taken by another without anyone questioning it. Well, I tell you, it was a complete SUCCESS! I got the respect due a teacher because the students saw authority in me considering I

really looked the part, I delivered the lesson, and they understood it. But I had some problems: they said my delivery of the lesson was not quite effective because my voice was very soft; I lacked classroom management skills; and my handwriting could be deciphered only by a hieroglyph expert (My legs weren’t trembling but my hands were!). They also mentioned that the word “Amazing” I

They were looking at me as if I knew all the answers to their questions.

frequently and sarcastically used in class was inappropriate in Sociology. I shouldn’t have settled for a sorry-no-answerMa’am response; instead I should have guided the students to their “Eureka!” moments by asking them leading questions.

When Bryan dropped the “m__f__” bomb, the students expected me to be angry and impose a disciplinary action on him, but I didn’t which, from their perspective, was very “un-teacher-like”. I did get angry though; they just couldn’t tell because I put on a poker face whenever I’m angry.

Seat Swap

Life is really different when you see things from the teacher’s seat. You have all the authority to do things in the classroom; but I realized that when the power is not yours, things could be quite difficult to handle. You may “lend” or “borrow” authority, but you don’t “own” it.

Now, I understand why Ms. V walked away. Perhaps she felt that her authority had fallen apart. Harper Lee was right when he said, “You never really understand a person until you consider things from that person’s point of view, until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.”

I wonder how many sacrifices teachers make. I had a sore throat from all that talking.

I had smart alecks in class who didn’t give a hoot about all the “effort” I put into the lesson I had with them. What about the “real” teachers (not the “impostors” like me)? How much “suffering” do they have to bear every day?

Instead of going abroad to earn the almighty dollar, they have chosen to stay here and settle for a measly compensation despite having to deal with students who do not know how to appreciate their efforts.

Now, every time I see my teachers, I look at them with greater respect and admiration.

reVieWs

rules, gAmes, And fAme ‘POWErFUL’ BOOk, MOvIE, And Tv SErIES rEvIEWS text by ayah danica v. granada

Many want it, others thirst for it, some lose it, and few have too much of it. But the biggest question that always ties in with power is: How do I get it? Power is commonly defined as the ability to influence the behavior of others with or without resistance. Persuasion, social influence, social class, expertise, and knowledge are just the few forms it may take. We’ve all heard of Spiderman’s famous “With great power, comes great responsibility,” line, but can we really measure the greatness of power? Or can we say that we are great because of power? realistically, there is no good or bad power, for it usually lies in the hands of those who have it and how they wield it. laws of power { theby48robert { greene

dISnEY PIXAr’S brave

{

“if you had the chance to change your fate, would you?”

- Princess Mérida

The storyline begins in the Scottish kingdom of Dunbroch, with King Fergus presenting his young daughter, merida, with a bow and arrow for her birthday, to the discomfort of Merida’s mother, Queen Elinor, who is keen on refining Merida’s lady-like manners. Determined to make her own mark, princess merida defies a custom that brings chaos to her kingdom. granted one wish, merida must rely on her bravery and her archery skills to undo a beastly curse.

The movie poster alone

says it all: a girl can be a hero.

Reconciliation comes from setting pride aside,, admitting one’s mistakes, and forgiving completely. It is, in a sense, its own form of bravery. The animation is top-notch, which is a huge factor to its value as a film worth watching.

Since Mulan, brave has given animated princesses a muchneeded reboot. The laughter drawn and the tears shed while watching the film are exactly what the film would like to see in the audience;and it does hit the bull’s eye.

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undoubtedly, most, if not all of us, have dreamed about being at “the top”. growing up, we were taught to get good grades and work hard, for we would surely move up. and when that advice didn’t work, we found role models.

For many of us, we have known about each “law of power” from what is usually described - with a historical event that includes a struggle for power and a clear-cut winner or loser. These are often high-profile cases with

which we are familiar. in this book, green tells us to plan multiple steps ahead to get what we want in life, or to seduce our opponent at any cost - as cleopatra did.

The 48 Laws of Power is often marketed as a self-help book, but it’s much more than that. This book is replete with practical wisdom in its own way and, honestly, the practice of many of these laws would be considered socially dangerous and shameless.

You don’t necessarily have to agree with the many theories stated, nor do you have to understand all of it.once you start reading this book, it does not matter if you want to play the game or not; you are in it. You don’t have to take a sword with you, but you may start to contemplate wearing some armor. This book is that shield; to understand the 48 laws allows you to see the opportunity before it is too late. It’s a book fit for those fascinated in the history of big minds or leaders, and how their actions led to their rise (and fall).

{

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{ game of thrones BY gEOrgE r. r. MArTIn { Game of Thrones is the 10-episode TV series adaptation of George R. R. Martin’s first of seven novels that make up the epic fantasy series called a Song of Fire and Ice. Set in the continent of westeros, seven kingdoms bear seasons that last for years at a time, sometimes even decades. The series presents three main sub-plots: The Seven Kingdoms, The wall, and across the Sea. The story of Seven Kingdoms revolves around the main protagonist Eddard (Ned) Stark, also known as the Lord of winterfell and his family. King Robet baratheon pays Eddard a visit and offers him the position to be Hand of The King. Eddard accepts the position and vows to

his wife Lady catelyn Stark that he will investigate the death of the previous Hand, Jon arryn.

The wall is an ancient 700-foot-high, 300-mile-long, barrier of ice, stone and ancient magic, shielding the Seven Kingdoms from the North, manned by the order of the Night’s Watch. Men of the Night’s watch swear an oath to serve the wall for life, foregoing marriage.

It is where Jon Snow, Ned Stark’s bastard son discovers just how difficult it is to keep watch of the human tribesmen who live in relative anarchy, better known as the “wildlings.” across the Sea, Viserys and Daenerys Targaryen struggle to crawl their way back to power after the fall of their father aerys

II, also known as “The mad King,” to Robert baratheon.

The Targaryens have been known as dragon lords for over 300 years, until their powers disappeared and the dragons died out. Viserys arranges a marriage between his sister and Khal Drogo in exchange for the use of Drogo’s Dothraki tribe to aid him in reclaiming the Iron Throne.

The series exhibits the perfect example of struggle for power and the lengths men will go to in order to acquire the Iron Throne, which is a metaphor for worldly riches and authority. In totality, the game of Thrones is an impressive masterpiece from book to screen.

{ divergent BY vErOnICA rOTH { In Beatrice Prior’s dystopian chicago, society is split into five factions, each dedicated to the refinement of a standard virtue--candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). anually, on a selected day, every sixteen-yearold must choose the faction to which they will devote the rest of their lives. During the initiation that follows, beatrice struggles to determine whether or not she made the right decision, and hides a secret. as she discovers a growing war the augustinian mirror VoL. 79 No. 1 ocTobER 2012

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{ what do you get when you put Iron man, The Incredible Hulk, captain america, Thor, black widow, and the Hawkeye together? a smoky lineup on the lookout for Loki. marvel Studios delivers the ultimate comic-book film, which ties together Marvel’s favorite superheroes.

Taking center stage this time

MArvEL’S the avengers is Nick Fury, leader of the peacekeeping agency known as S.H.I.E.L.D. Fury recruits a super team to combat Loki, Thor’s deceptive half-brother after he brainwashes some scientists and one of Fury’s members, while stealing a cosmic cube, known as the Tesseract from an underground base. The heroes must learn to work together

that threatens to unravel her seemingly perfect society, she also realizes one thing: that either those she loves will be saved, or she will be destroyed.

Dystopian novels tend to create societies much similar to communism, totalitarianism, and authoritarianism. a major part of the book focuses on the dangerous trials that the new initiates must endure in order to find out whether or not they qualify to stay. Failure means living a factionless life, or death.

The very concept of the novel, however, asks that readers accept a fairly rigid framework

{ It’s not exactly a “sugar, spice and everything nice” collaboration, but The Avengers has got to be the latest, most well-known superhero mashup. This movie emphasizes how power, when put to use properly and selflessly, can go a long way in the service of humanity. It really is amazing what can be accomplished when no one takes the credit.

PHOTO CREDITS HTTp://NoTJuSTbooKSoNLINE.com, HTTp://upLoaD.wIKImEDIa.oRg, HTTp://www.maKINggamEoFTHRoNES.com, HTTp://ImagES2.wIKIa.NocooKIE.NET, HTTp://VINcENTLoY.FILES.woRDpRESS.com

for the story. This idea that human beings would redirect their natural instincts to live in a society where a single virtue is promoted is quite farfetched, but Veronica Roth’s debut novel contains every essence of a gripping plot, paired with a perfect pace and turn of events. we all know the bar has been set high for the dystopian genre, and it is not in the same category as The Hunger Games, but I think we often do ourselves a disservice when we make those kinds of comparisons.

photographer ray adrian c. macalalag

what would you trade for power?

photographer raY adrian c. macalalag • model xenia s. sentina