The Augustinian, August 2008

page 6

Abortion failure...

page 7

Check please! take 2

issn 0115-9226

Eighty Years of Excellent Campus Journalism for the Common Good the Official student newspaper of the UNIVERSITY OF san agustin iloilo city, philippines

VOL. 56 NO. 1

Petrola elected new SC Prexy

By DONNA ISABELLE FRESNIDO

John Paul Petrola, a fourth year AB Philosophy student from the College of Arts and Sciences, was elected USA Student Council President for academic year 20082009.

Petrola headed the Leader Party, which faced no opposition in the election polls.

Petrola assumed office on July 3, right after the proclamation from the Student Commission on Elections (SCOMEL) headed by Noel Sinco (BS Foreign Service 4).

When asked about how he envisions the University-wide student government during his term, Petrola replied that the student council should fit his acronym for ‘USA’: “a University student center, a Service center, and an Advocacy center.”

The grand political rally for the student council elections was held on July 1, 8 am to 12 pm at the University Gymnasium. Voting then started in the afternoon of the same day and continued until July 2 at the designated college precincts.

JULY 1 - AUGUST 15, 2008

FR. MARCHAN: ‘PUSH FOR EXCELLENCE’ New President Comes Up with 3-Point Agenda for the University

By Jefferson Magbanua

Newly-installed University President Rev. Fr. Raul Marchan, OSA, wanted to push the University towards excellence and thus formulated a three-point agenda for the duration of his term (20082012).

Marchan, having been officially lodged into office after the Mass of the Holy Spirit on June 27, has been seeking to spearhead efforts to make the University financially viable, strengthen the “Augustinianization” of the University, and continue the University’s avowed academic and community-service excellence. These, he said, are his three basic goals as the new school head.

In an interview with The Augustinian on July 29, Marchan cited that the University has been financially in the red because of 1.5% decrease in enrollment this semester and said that financial viability would be the means for his administration to upgrade the school facilities and the physical plan of the campus and to organize intensive faculty development programs.

“The financial viability [of the University] can be made possible

Celebrating 80 years of freedom of expression:

USA Pub launches Pub Expo

By Paulo Moises Bayabos

through intensive campaign for more enrollees and proper marketing of the school, evaluation of the functions of our different offices so as to achieve streamlining, review of our academic curriculum, and different programs as recommended by the Board of Trustees, and as much as possible, outsourcing the school finances,” Marchan said.

Marchan also said that as the new president, he envisions the total “Augustinianization” of the University. In this, he meant the University ‘PUSH FOR EXCELLENCE’. Rev. Fr. Raul Marchan, OSA, in an interview, explains to the USA Publications would serve as the training his plans of action in maintaining the University’s ground for all students avowed excellence. and personnel to grow in values by integrating St. Augustine’s core values - Unitas, this school year, he targets the start Campus Minister, Treasurer, and CSC Veritas and Caritas - in classroom of the renovation of the registrar Director; Fr. Jonas Mejares, OSA, discussions and in co-curricular and accounting offices and the Dean of the Conservatory of Music restructuring of the library wherein and Theology Department; Dean activities.

F u r t h e r m o r e , M a r c h a n new air-conditioning systems would Victoria Sustento, Dean of the College emphasized that once financial viability be installed. He likewise plans to of Pharmacy and Medical Technology; and the total “Augustinianization” of purchase a new power generator for Fr. Dante Juloc, OSA, Principal, High School and Grade School; Dr. Carmen the University are already achieved, it the school’s use.

Marchan was appointed as the Hernandez, HRD Director; Atty. Julius would be easier for his administration new university president on May Elvas, Exec. Asst. to the President; to sustain the University’s academic 1 by the Augustinian Provincial Rizzamila Superio, Asst. Principal, and community-service excellence.

Council and, together with him, new High School and Grade School; Dr. “Our University has a reputation appointees in the school administrative Melvin Sumagaysay, Department to consider. We will push for excellence body are Fr. Generous Gonesto, Head, Pharmacy; Aneline Tolones, in the academe and the communityOSA, Vice-President for Academic Department Chair, Chemistry; service aspect by improving our Affairs and Dean of the Graduate Josephine De Asis, Department faculty development programs and going for continuous accreditation and School; Fr. Edgardo Lazo, OSA, Chair, Information Technology; community development programs,” Vice-President for Administration Dr. Remedios Somcio, Director of and Finance; Fr. Pederito Aparece, CEIR; Epifania Paclibar, Director of Marchan added.

Aside from his primary three- OSA, Prefect of Students; Fr. Nelson Libraries and Instructional Media; point agenda, the new university Zerda, OSA, Director of General and Dr. Nenita Villanueva, Director president likewise mentioned that by Services; Fr. Danilo Carido, OSA, of Guidance Services.

Sustento, RP’s most outstanding Filipino teacher in 2008 PUB EXPOSED. Students flocked to the Pub Expo on July 7 to 16. The Pub Expo served as a prelude to the 80th anniversary of the USA Publications.

TO celebrate its 80-year exercise of freedom of expression, the USA Publications launched an exhibit, Pub Expo, at the USA Alumni Student Center on July 7 to 16.

According to USA Publications Managing Editor Cara Uy (who was the one in-charge of the groundwork for the exhibit), Pub Expo was the Publications’ way of reaching out to other Augustinian students so that they may be aware of the Publications’ vision to establish a liberal and harmonious relationship between the students and the student journalists in the campus.

Actualizing the essence of freedom of expression, the exhibit had freedom boards where passersby freely expressed their sentiments through writing. The exhibit also

showcased the trophies and medals awarded to the USA Publications throughout its 80 years of existence as a school organization. It also included the Pub Wall of Fame which displayed the names of prominent achievers who were past editors of the USA Publications namely, Raul Gonzales, Evalyn Ursua, Isidoro Cruz, Jigger Latoza, Eric Divinagracia, John Iremil Teodoro, Fabienne Paderes, Johnny Esmilla Jr., and Elsed Togonon.

The Pub Expo was the first among the many forthcoming activities planned for the USA Publications’ 80th anniversary. It was materialized through the efforts of the staff members and some BS Fine Arts students, under the tutelage of USA Publications Moderator, Erwin Sustento.

By PIETROS VAL PATRICIO

ONE of the university’s professors was recognized as the country’s foremost in teaching Filipino upon receiving a title of distinction from the Deparment of Education earlier this year.

Professor Erwin Sustento, a full time Filipino teacher of the College of Education, garnered the 2008 Pambansang Gawad Balagtas sa Pinakamahusay na Guro sa Filipino sa Kolehiyo at the 32rd Pambansang Gawaing-Kapulungan sa Filipino at the Teacher’s Camp, Baguio City, May 8.

Organized by the Pambansang S a m a h a n n g Ta g a m a s i d a t Tagapagtaguyod sa Filipino in cooperation with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino, the event which gathered Filipino teachers from all over

the Philippines, aimed towards the promotion of the national language in learning institutions all over the country. It likewise served as a search for the country’s most outstanding teachers in Filipino in the primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. The awardees were selected based on the following criteria: the teacher’s educational attainment, past achievements, personality and values, as well as the his actual performance in the past three years of teaching.

Sustento, also a freelance writer in Kinaray-a, Hiligaynon and Filipino has been previously adjudged as the 2007 Honorable Mention in the Pagsulat ng Tula sa Hiligaynon, sponsored by the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino Sustento is currently finishing his doctoral degree in Filipino, major in Literature at the College of Arts

and Letters, University of the Philippines-Diliman. In June, he was appointed as the new moderator of the USA Publications.

Sustento

The Augustinian

NEWS

JULY 1 - AUGUST 15, 2008

Editor: JEFFERSON MAGBANUA

USA Rotaract Partners with Rotary for community diagnosis

By Jefferson Magbanua

Augustinians join ‘March for Life’

By Allin Joy Emboltura

University of San Agustin first year students, Student Council (SC) and ROTC officers participated in the “Prayer March for Life” on July 24.

The rally was held in commemoration of Humanae Vitae’s 40th Anniversary, to disapprove the House Bill 0017 known as the Reproductive Health Bill, and to pray for the victims of Typhoon Frank.

In the afternoon, the march from assembly points going to the Freedom Grandstand started. The pro-life rosary was led by Dr. Rene Bullecer and the invocation on Family Life was initiated by Rev. Fr. Bernabe “Abing” Tutana, Director, Jaro Archidiocesan Commission. A series of talks followed: Lora Tan-Garcia, Professional Lecturer on Character-Based Education and Chastity Education talked about “Chastity”; Dr. Brian Clowes, Research Manager, Human Life International, USA discussed about “Global Deception to Destroy Life and Family”; Dr. Dolores Octaviano, Internist/ Endocrinologist practitioner spoke on the “Deception of Reproductive Health Bills”; Dr. Ligaya A. Acosta, D.M., Executive Health Director HLI, Asia and Representative in Congress for Catholic Bishop Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) tackled the “Reproductive Health Bills.”

Archbishop Angel Lagdameo, D.D., Archbishop of Jaro, who was the main celebrant, ended the Prayer March for Life with a concelebrated mass.

3 campus writers win awards in APCAS journ tilt

By Sheena Capindo

Three augustinian student journalists emerged winners in the Association of Philippine College of Arts and Sciences Region VI, Inc. (APCAS-Region VI) Journalism Seminar-Workshop held at the Crowne Ballroom of Punta Villa Resort on July 18.

University of San Agustin Publications Associate Editors Jefferson Magbanua (AB Pol Sci 2) and Jenny Castro (BS Phar 3, and also a staffer of The Pharmakeia) were declared champion in editorial writing and third placer in news writing, respectively. The Pharmakeia Editor-in-Chief Analei Lasdoce (BS Phar 4) ranked second to Magbanua in editorial writing.

Aiming to promote effective campus journalism among student writers, the APCAS-organized Journalism Seminar-Workshop included lectures on news, editorial and feature writing, laws concerning student publications, and modern issues and challenges faced by journalists.

There’s unity in service.

This was proven true when service-oriented USA (University of San Agustin) Rotaract Club collaborated with its mother organization, the Rotary Club of Iloilo (Rotary International 3850), in conducting a community diagnosis in San Rafael, Mandurriao, July 19.

According to current USA Rotaract Club President Rey John Lorca, the initiative was done to obtain accurate figures concerning the needs of the residents of Typhoon Frank which devastated Brgy. San Rafael, Mandurriao district. The information gathered would then be the Rotarians’ basis for the kind of future projects they would espouse.

The one-day community diagnosis which was solely participated by 63 Rotaractors served only as an assessment phase in the overall proposal of the Rotary Club of Iloilo but Lorca said the turn-out was overwhelming. “The project should have been for four days but we finished it in a day only because of the good number of volunteers.

In fact, Rotaract now has 157 members (37 males and 120 females) and we’re getting bigger,” Lorca added.

As preparation for the said activity, an orientation on the relevance of community diagnosis and its procedures took place on July 16 at Blanco Hall-11, wherein former Nursing Student Council President Mark Lorente and Adrian Hort Ramos, BSN-4, were resource persons.

During his talk, Lorente made it a point that Rotaract’s community diagnosis would be useful for nursing members because it would prepare them for their field. Lorente likewise clarified that non-nursing members could apply knowledge from their courses to help the clients. “If you’re an architecture student, for instance, you could advise them on the type of repair their damaged roof should undergo,” he said.

Exactly five days after the conduct of the community diagnosis, Rotaract officers were inducted into office at Hotel Del Rio, with Dr. Manuel Posecion, Rotary Club of Iloilo president as presiding officer.

Aside from Lorca, BS Architecture 5,

other officers sworn into office were Katherine Ariston, Vice-President for External Affairs; Febeme Villaluna, Vice-President for Internal Affairs; Charmaine Aquino, Secretary; Janet Paclibar, Treasurer; Jhessa Lyne Nituda, Michelle Barrido, Del Rey Chiva, Analei Lasdoce, and Patrick Daniel Ladrido, Board of Directors; Aaron Ong (CN), Ramuel Borja (COE), Robe Ivan Pagulong (CAS), Kristine Gonzales (CEA), Edwin Santos (CPMT), and Phem Loverly Nalius (CBAA), Board Members.

For this academic year, these officers, along with their advisers Prof. Jigger Latoza, MPA, MA Com and Prof. Jane Manila, Ph.D. were designated to run the USA Rotaract Club.

LEND ME YOUR EARS. Rotaract Club President Rey John Lorca instructs fellow Rotaractors about upcoming activities of the USA Rotaract Club.

City gov’t conducts flood and water Former USA Pub EIC awarded in 2008 TOSP-RVI search management conference in San Ag

By Jefferson Magbanua

By PIETROS VAL PATRICIO

With the goal of discussing strategies in preventing flood through water management, the Iloilo City government conducted a scientific conference on flooding and water management at the USA Training Center on July 14 to 15.

Initially slated two weeks prior to the Typhoon Frank incident, the seminar was spearheaded by Mayor Jerry Treñas and City Natural Environment Resources Office Engineers Renan Escoto and Noel Hechanova. Aside from the University, the city government’s partners for the conduct of the said event were the observatory center of the Ateneo de Manila University, PAG-ASA, and the Christian Aid Social Development Agency.

Among the 60 participants of the event were academic scholars and deans from tertiary institutions, as well as representatives from private companies all over the province of Iloilo.

11 Agustinian student leaders join SBK Leadership Camp

By Daisy Dawn Macahilo

With the mission of having “good leaders and a better nation”, 11 Agustinian student leaders participated in the Samahan ng Bagong Kabataan (SBK) Leadership Training camp on July 25 to 27 at Isla Miguel, Nueva Valencia, Guimaras.

Together with Sedfrey Cabaluna, an Augustinian law student who was elected as the President of the SBK 8th generation, Augustinian student leaders who joined the camp and were elected as officers were: Rynilyn Quichon (AB Pol Sci4), Vice President for Iloilo City; Michael Pamplona (AB Mass Com 4), Vice-President for Roxas City; Leobelle May Monserate (AB PolSci 3), Asst. Secretary; Daisy Dawn Macahilo (AB Pol Sci 3), Treasurer; and Genelyn Ogatis (AB Pol Sci 3), Auditor. Other Augustinian delegates were Jubby Laurente (AB Pol Sci 3), Mayflor Dupaloc (AB Pol Sci 3), Robe Jan Ivan Pagulong (BSIT 3), Francis Fortunato Gonzales (BSIT 3), and Ann Kristy Huelar (BSIT 3).

The three-day workshop started with courtesy calls to Guimaras Gov. Felipe Hilan Nava and Nueva Valencia Mayor Alex Araneta.

After the courtesy calls, a workshop followed and the resource persons tackled three topics on leadership: Nelson Mandela’s 8 lessons of leadership

by Atty. Julius Elvas, Executive Asst. to the President, USA, A Perspective on Socio-Economic and Political-Cultural Environment of the Philippines

by Atty. Zafiro Lauron, and Core Values and Dynamic Leadership by Joel Adrias, businessman.

POSE FOR POSTERITY. Former EIC Johnny Esmilla, Jr. strikes a pose after being named 2008 TOSP-Region VI awardee.

Former USA Publications Editor-in-Chief Johnny Esmilla Jr. was awarded one of the 2008 Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines – Region VI (TOSP – RVI) in a formal awarding ceremony held at the Governor ’s Hall of the Provincial Capitol of Negros Occidental, Bacolod City, April 18.

Esmilla was the sole representative of the University of San Agustin to the 2008 TOSP search, where each school was allowed to send a maximum of three representatives.

Together with nine other awardees from different schools in Western Visayas, Esmilla received a medal, a certificate of recognition, and a

trophy from the organizing committee composed of the TOSP Alumni Community, RFM Foundation by Jose Concepcion, and Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

The Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines – Western Visayas were chosen through a regional search wherein the top 20 were initially picked and then the number was finally narrowed down to 10.

The contestants were judged based on their bid books which contained all their documents – transcript of records, proof of awards, and official recommendation by the school head.

The criteria for judging the bid books were academic excellence, social responsibility, and leadership.

USA-CN, USANAA hold 1st Int’l educational symposium

By MA. DONNA MAE TRASPORTO

Consistent with the mission and vision of the University to provide quality education for the common good, the College of Nursing (CN) together with the USA Nurses Alumni Association (USANAA), held the first International Educational Symposium on July 25 at the University conference room.

The symposium jumpstarted with the words of welcome by Sofia Cosette Monteblanco, RN, MAN, Dean of the CN followed by the introduction of speakers by April Jann Marie Portillo, RN. The symposium covered concerns regarding Professional and Personal Growth, which were believed to enhance nursing students’ competence.

During the event, guest speakers delivered their insights and experiences as nurses in United States of America and the Middle East. Rene Pabalan, RN, CCRN discussed the topic “Nursing: An Integration of Art and Science” while Grace Rita Domingo, RN, MSN, APRN, BC talked about “Nursing: Education and Career Development: Do you want more of your career?” Ma. Brenda San Agustin, RN, MAN talked about “Building Multicultural skills in Health Care Delivery: Middle Eastern/Islamic Population” and many more. An open forum was conducted thereafter.

The gathering was graced by the BSN 4H students, supervised by Louie

Hijalda, RN, Level Team X Chair and Level 4 Co-Curricular Coordinator and Marivic Articulo of BSN 4D who rendered a song number. Also present in the event were BSN 4 A, C, D and G, Clinical Instructors, Level Chairs, Lorna Badian, RN, MAN, Clinical Coordinator and Susana Salinas, RN, OR, DR Coordinator.

Masters of the ceremony were Jan Christian Moreno, RN, and Jennery Hyla Bernabe, RN. The symposium was made possible through the joint efforts of the USANAA headed by Helen Caton, RN, MN, the Nursing Student Council, Nursing Sports Association and Student Nurses Association of the Philippines.

NEWS

JULY 1 - AUGUST 15, 2008

Gregorios leads uni-wide ABS-CBN broadcasting contest

By JOSH VON IRON TONDO

Joan Gregorios, a sophomore nursing student, emerged champion in the ABS-CBN Broadcasting c o n t e s t (University-wide eliminations) on July 22.

Gregorios’ win at the school level of ABS-CBN’s broadcasting competition served as her ticket to represent the University of ‘UNA SA BALITA’. In San Agustin in the an interview with Sikat Ka Iloilo Reporter city-wide finals of Joyce Clavecillas, the said contest on Beverly Joan August 23.

Gregorios, reacts on Ranking her victory at the ABSCBN Broadcasting second to contest (University Gregorios was eliminations).

Marilla Cagas, a first year nursing WITH an average of 1.33 from the student, while in third place was Gian three-man judging panel, Beverly Bermudo (BS Psychology-I) of the

College of Arts and Sciences. Cagas and Bermudo obtained an average of 3.0 and 3.33, respectively.

Aside from the abovementioned three, six others joined the school broadcasting eliminations. All of the contestants were judged in three categories – English, Filipino and Hiligaynon – with their news lines given only five minutes before the actual contest. Topics provided in the news lines they delivered were that of Typhoon Frank, MV Papa vessel which sank near the coast of Antique, and the fare increase in local public utility jeepneys.

The judges during the said tilt were UCRP (University Center for Research and Publications) Director Jigger Latoza, Mass Communications Instructor Raffy Galan, and ABSCBN News Reporter John Mark Guda who was a product of the ABS-CBN Broadcasting contest himself.

The event was graced by Atty.

Jobert Peñaflorida of ABS-CBN’s TV Patrol Iloilo and Sikat Ka Iloilo.

It commenced at seven in the evening, with USA Student Council President John Paul Petrola as host.

By Cara Uy and Niña Ricci Matulac

of the book while Dr. Isidoro Cruz, conveyed an academic opinion about it. Mayor Jerry Treñas and Prof. Demy Sonza then delivered inspirational messages. A buffet was also set up for the guests after the program proper.

The publication of this book was made possible through the funding of Baterna’s children Q’ Roni, Mary Gelle, Louise Belle, Quin, Jucelle, Q, Julie Rose and Rina Grace; and through the support of former Fr. President Manuel Vergara, O.S.A., USA Publishing House supervised by former Managing Director Prof. Teodoro, and the University Center for Research and Publications headed by Prof.

Jigger Latoza.

Quiñon

Paris

From left to right: Sorrilla, Fresnido, Emboltura, Macahilo, and Tondo

The USA Publications, the publisher of The Augustinian, The Augustinian Mirror and the Irong-Irong Literary Journal, admitted five new student writers to its editorial board for academic year 2008-2009.

The new staffers who qualified for their respective positions after taking the USA Publications’ competitive examinations at the PMT Review Center on July 12 are Ronald Sorrilla (BS Ed MAPEH 3), Donna Isabelle Fresnido (BS Psych 2), Allin Joy Emboltura (BS Med

Tech 1), Daisy Dawn Macahilo (AB Pol Sci 3), and Josh Von Iron Tondo (BS MassCom 3).

Sorrilla, Fresnido and Emboltura qualified for the Senior Writer slots for while Macahilo and Tondo were given the Staff Writer positions.

Together with the new USA Publications Editor-in-Chief, Pietros Val Patricio (AB Pol Sci 3) and Moderator Erwin Sustento, the new staffers were welcomed by the old staffers during the first general meeting of the organization.

By DONNA ISABELLE FRESNIDO

By Ronald Sorrilla

Quiñon has been the advocate of the USA Statistical Center since it started in 2002. She is the current president and member of the board of directors of the Philippine Association for Teacher Education (PAFTE) for both the regional and national levels. She is also the proponent of the ongoing PAFTE National Research Proposal on LET and Classroom Performance of Education and Non-Education Graduates in the Philippines.

Paris was a recipient of the PCHRD-DOST Scholarship Grant

Pub admits 5 new staffers

2 USAHS batches come home

3 Augustinian teachers gain distinction at WVSU’s centenary IN line with the celebration of West Visayas State University’s centenary, three Augustinian teachers were recognized among the 100 Outstanding Alumni of the said University.

College of Education Dean Nenita Quiñon, Prof. Lerma Paris of the College of Pharmacy and Medical Technology, and Atty.

Helen Camarista-Catalbas of the Graduate School were given the Outstanding Alumni distinction.

Each of them was awarded a medal and a certificate of recognition.

By Paulo Moises Bayabos

USA Publishing House launches Baterna’s book Politicians, artists, and local writers gathered to witness the University of San Agustin (USA) Publishing House’s launching of Realtor Quin Baterna’s book entitled Balangaw sa Tingadlaw on July 26, 5:00 PM at Museo, Iloilo.

The book contains a collection of 18 short stories (first published in Hiligaynon magazine dated 1961-1964) of Baterna, a Gawad Pambansang Alagad ni Balagtas Hiligaynon Fiction awardee.

The book launching opened with a prayer by the USA Little Theater managed by Artistic Director Edward Divinagracia followed by the welcome remarks of the USA President Fr. Raul Marchan, O.S.A. Prof. John Iremil Teodoro, Production Editor, gave an overview

The Augustinian

Editor: JEFFERSON MAGBANUA

and was the team leader of the War on Worms in Western Visayas (WOW-WV), a school-based Intestinal Helminth Control Project (2007). Paris has been the adviser of PAMET, Inc. Iloilo since 1997.

Catalbas is presently the officer-in-charge of the Department of Tourism-Region VI. She teaches the Local Government Code, Issuances and Public Accountability and Ethics at the USA Graduate School and also handles Tourism subjects at the College of Arts and Sciences.

Camarista-Catalbas

TWO USA High School Batches had dinner to reconnect with fellow - Batch `58 and Batch `73 - came batchmates, a visit to the USAHS back to the University recently to extension campus, and a USA Main celebrate their golden jubilee and campus tour with their own version 35th anniversaries, respectively. of Amazing Race 2008.

USAHS Batch’58 celebrated University of San Agustin their golden jubilee anniversary Alumni Association President Vivian with a two-day series of activities on Lou Inayan facilitated the USAHS February 9 to 10. homecoming activities.

The first day of Batch `58’s anniversary consisted of a Eucharistic celebration by Rev. Fr. Generous Gonesto, OSA at the USA Chapel, followed by a brief campus tour and a class meeting at Gamboa Hall (formerly the high school building) presided by Ernesto Ladrido Jr., the president of Class ’58. The second day had another Eucharistic celebration and a tour of the High School extension campus in Sambag, Jaro, capped off by a lunch at Breakthrough, Arevalo.

On the other hand, USAHS Batch `73 marked their 35th anniversary on July 25 to 27, with a string of activities entitled USA Alumni Association President Vivian Tabo-an ’08: Our Homecoming.

Lou Inayan delivers a message during the During the course of the threeBatch ‘73 homecoming, July 27. day celebration, the alumni

2 law students excel outside campus

By Ronald Sorrilla and Aljun Padisio

Two top students from the College of Law have once again brought pride and honor to the academic community after boosting the good name of the University.

Mark Borres, a Bachelor of Laws graduate of 2008, has recently been chosen by the National Youth Commission as this year’s Philippine Youth Ambassador for the 35 th Ship of the Southeast Asian Youth Program (SSEAP) of Japan & ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations). Borres, also a graduate of AB Political Science in 2003, graduated cum laude along with many leadership

awards during his college years at the College of Arts and Sciences. He will be leaving for Japan later this year for the first port of call of his international tour.

Khristopher Ian Magboo, currently a senior law student, was elected as vice president for Visayas National Board of the Association of Law Student of the Philippines (ALSP) on May 30 to June 2 held in Cebu City. Magboo is an AB Political Science graduate in 2005.

The oath taking of ALSP Officers was held at the Supreme Court on July 24, with Chief Justice Reynato Puno as inducting officer.

OPINION

The Augustinian

JULY 1 - AUGUST 15, 2008

All about ‘FRANK’ness

GET THE GAG OFF As far as conservative academic institutions go, the words “academic freedom” are sure to narrow the eyes and raise the eyebrows of Those Above. But say the same thing to the teachers and you will be greeted with fists in the air and rounds of applause.

Funny thing for academic freedom to elicit such diverse reactions from the opposite ends of the spectrum. But in its extent – and suppression – the outcome is no laughing matter.

In a Catholic institution like the University of San Agustin, the academic culture is ideally conservative. As it is, it casts a wary eye on anything that may be construed as destroying what is conventional and morally acceptable. However, where does vigilant caution end and censorship begin? Teachers are being cautioned not to allow class discussions to drift into touchy territory. Consequently, their academic freedom is hindered because they are only expected to give sanitized versions of truth and reality. How far can an academic institution sacrifice daring innovation that raises the quality of teaching for anything that stays within the lines but gives students and teachers the comfortable yet enclosing feeling of stagnation?

In order for education to grow and be enhanced, it needs change – change that can jolt and shake slumbering minds.

Of course, the Augustinian administration has every right to be cautious about what it allows the academe to teach. Are the materials and methods in line with the goals of the University? Do they promote the common good without distorting the students’ values? One cannot blame the administration for the initial mistrust of anything that might threaten to destroy the University’s vision and repute. Conventional ways are encouraged for they are tried and proven in the maintenance of the status quo.

All that is needed is an open-minded approach towards change. If what is being taught is dangerously new but decent, let the administration give it a chance. For the teachers, academic freedom is a right but rights are not complete without the accountability for one’s actions.

All that considered, let us all not use academic freedom to break the rules – bend them, stretch them, and better yet, revolutionize them for a greater good.

Editorial

THE

augustinian

Editor-in-Chief Pietros Val Patricio Managing Editor Cara Uy Associate Editors Paulo Moises Bayabos Jefferson Magbanua Jenny Castro Senior Writers Donna Isabelle Fresnido Allin Joy Emboltura Ronald Sorrilla Aljun Padisio Staff Writers Mario Ivan Gonzales Karlo Christopher Cristales Josh Von Iron Tondo Daisy Dawn Macahilo Staff Artist/Photographer William Fusin Jr. Circulation Officer Sheena Capindo Contributors Niña Ricci Matulac Ma. Donna Mae Trasporto Moderator Erwin Sustento

The Augustinian is the official student newspaper of the University of San Agustin.

It is published six times a year by the USA Publications with editorial office at Room 38, 3rd Floor, Gamboa Hall, University of San Agustin, Gen. Luna St., 5000 Iloilo City. Comments, suggestions, and contributions may be sent to the Editorial Board through the email address pubpipol@usa.edu.ph.

I’ve decided to drop my infamous column title FRANKNESS this year in deference to the flood victims of typhoon FRANK. Gladly, the devastation and trauma brought by the tropical cyclone is now over. As a victim of the flashflood myself, I’m quite sure this recent disaster has broadened our moral conscience towards environmental awareness. Many fellow Augustinians and faculty members out there have been traumatized by the calamity.

And obviously, this typhoon was also FRANK enough to open our eyes on the adverse threats and consequences climate change could bring to us in the future. All the lives and properties lost were some kind of payback for all the ‘ecological sins’ we’ve been committing in the past. This gives us all the reason to rethink our plans on environmental management. All I could do was to helplessly yawn about our inabilities as a society after the harsh scenario: Illegal loggers cut down trees resulting to landslides; a passenger ship sinks after sailing right in the middle of a typhoon; the president scolds like a bitch; people point fingers at each other while the regional disaster council is only capable of counting dead bodies.

See how cheap the value of life is in these islands?

THE ARTISTS’ WELFARE: Everyone’s surely aware that San Ag has produced excellent dancers, singers, actors and writers of high distinction through the years, made possible by the university’s Center for Culture and the Arts. After covering the victorious feat of our very own Kawilihan dancers during last year’s 3rd Int’l Delphic Games in Baguio as well as the countless performances of our Little Theater thespians all over

Doble Kara

Cara Uy Why do we cry when we peel onions? Why do we cry when we cut our fingers or when we get bruised?

Why do we cry when we see hungry people in the streets? Why do we cry when we break the hearts of the ones we love? Has it ever entered into your minds how tears are produced?

Crying is voluntary. It’s something one can control if s/he allows it to happen. Although basically, crying is said to be a natural response to a stimulus human beings produce out of a spectrum of emotions. Science, however, is still enigmatic about the process of crying especially with the emotional tear - a “by product” of crying. Science also often suggests that tears which flow down the ocular surface of our eyes to our nasolacrimal ducts serve as protection and moisturizer, and at the same time, a means of communication.

But social norms provide a label that a tear more or less is in conjunction of an expression of grief which is comforting and common as a response to a sad event.

I have been a student writer for almost four years. And in the four years of being a pubpip, I have been a witness of a transmission of insipidity among students in today’s time especially when it comes to the

the country, we’ve noticed that our performing artists not only carry the name of our beloved alma mater but they also bring honor and prestige to the university through their constant journeys far beyond the campus walls.

We’ve talked to some of these people and came up to the conclusion that our young artists obviously need more financial and moral support from our administration. After all, we should take pride in them for propagating the Augustinian flame for art and culture.

We are deeply saddened upon hearing about the suspension of the once prestigious Fray Luis de Leon Creative Writing Institute, which has molded countless promising writers and poets all over the region through its annual San Agustin Writers Workshop, of which I myself am a product of.

A few days before the publications’ competitive entrance exams last month, our managing editor came up with the idea of producing around twenty (20) glossy announcement posters which has cost us a fortune from our own hard-earned money. Apparently, many of these posters were randomly scraped off the freedom boards where we posted them at the Alumni, Blanco, and Rada halls many days before the exams even took place. How come?

Many staffers of the Pub were unhappy about this matter.

CAMPUS FACILITIES: I happened to notice the newly-furnished indoor basketball court and the state-of-theart scoring board for the very first time last month while watching a basketball game between our high school and college players at the USA Gym. I really couldn’t help but salute the administration for endowing us such world-class equipment. The red

Mindscapes

Pietros Val Patricio paint on the concrete floor, however, is of poor quality. Even the restrooms and offices of the gym are quite dilapidated. The gym’s newly-painted interior is very elegant. I just hope it’s only the first phase of the facility’s renovation plans for it still needs to be air-conditioned. From the outside, the gym’s massive exterior honestly looks like an abandoned factory while the Mendel Hall is another eyesore that appears to be an ugly ‘fungus’ building. I strongly recommend the master planning of an efficient drainage system to prevent the University from flooding during the rainy season as well as the acquisition of power generators in response to the city’s frequent blackouts. Our campus roads have to be asphalted; all broken classroom windows need to be repaired right away! Come on!

How can we seriously be proud of our university if most of our facilities are rundown? Sometimes, visitors and prospective enrollees get their first actual impression of a university’s prestige and standards from the quality of its buildings, equipment and infrastructure. But we are still very thankful to our school administrators for their selfless efforts of good leadership and strong support, and for upholding our University’s good name.

Killing my Cries art of writing. This observation is valid as evidenced by a decline of applicants in our yearly publications competitive exams which made me think that some of us just remain passive in liberating our thoughts and expressing our freedom of expression through the student publications. The inability of departmental papers to publish an annual tabloid/magazine/ newsletter is another indication that campus journalism indeed, is in a state of comatose. While the USA Publications has taken efforts to reach out to the students of this University, most of us refuse to hold a grip as exemplified by an Augustinian tabloid being torn/cramped/simply being ignored or a pub poster being snatched off from a bulletin board among others. Let me just point out that we are not only publishing a tabloid for entertainment’s sake. Of course, we consider you, our readers, but we always see to it as well that the tabloid is something that is enriching, an educative one. The closure of the Fray Luis de Leon Creative Writing Institute is a manifestation that we are not closely paying much attention to writing which in the first place is a fundamental and most notable insignia of St. Augustine, our Patron Saint who gained fame through his sermons and writings.

When I speak of passivity, this has also something to do with running a student body. I have a better perspective now of how some student leaders under various student organizations in our University are functioning the moment I have become a part of it. I may say that I don’t intend to be a part of any student organization before because

I hate politics first and foremost. It gives me a pessimistic view of people who wear masks: some leaders who are the artista type; those who need to be applauded all the time after a “not-so-well-done” job. Some leaders are the anarchical type. This includes a leader who assumes a certain position and makes sure he stays long as such, the one who is a Mr./Ms. Know-it-all or does-itall but still lacks organization and systematic proceedings. A certain leader who belongs to this type lords over his/her members; the one who lets his or her members rust their thoughts and curtail the benefit of leading the organization because of his/her superiority complex. There are also leaders, while new, want to change the usual and foresee better hope for the organization but remain under a hypnotismo of being controlled. I have become insipid for one, not because I can’t perform my role but because I don’t want to do something against my will and the will of all for the common good. Let us always remember that when one is in a subordinate position, it doesn’t mean one cannot make a stand.

Being the head doesn’t mean one always rules over everyone. We live in a setting where freedom is neither controlled nor offended. That is why it is called freedom. This, among others, is what student writers fight for the students’ sake. It is what lets us mourn and makes our eyes bleed every once in a while. It is one of the many important things every student must care about so our tears may not remain wasted.

This time, I will not kill my cries anymore.

OPINION

JULY 1 - AUGUST 15, 2008

Manifest Content

Paulo Moises Bayabos These geniuses who work their butts off just to come up with a catchy movie tagline never cease to fascinate me.

One recent tagline which left quite a recurring grin on my face was from last month’s “The Dark Knight”, dubbed as the “Godfather of comic book movies”. It was such a nifty and strikingly short tagline which did not only suggest Joker’s attitude towards life (he is, after all, a clown), but also sent a wake-up message to the world.

There, written at the bottom of a poster with Joker’s chillingly gruesome face was the tagline, “Why So Serious?”

Do you know someone in your life who’s too serious with just about anything? I do. I know a lot of extremely serious people. You might see their pictures beside the definition of “serious” in the dictionary.

But I’m not saying they’re all losers.

In fact, lots of people attribute their success in school, business or any other undertaking to their seriousness – that is, to buckle up, keep both eyes on the road and concentrate. One’s interpretation of “being serious” may vary from another’s though, so let’s narrow down a bit: we’re talking about being TOO serious here.

This is where it gets a little dangerous. There’s a thin line

Prodigy

Jefferson Magbanua I am mad because I’ve realized that I was one of those confused hypocrites trying to take side on the Lagman-authored reproductive health bill when, in fact, the bill was never necessary.

Basically, the bill, a consolidated effort of a group of congressmen led

by Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman, has been seeking for “reproductive health and sexuality education programs” designed to combat abortions. As a preventive measure against abortions, the bill provides for “timely, complete and accurate information and education on reproductive health as well as ready access to safe, adequate and affordable reproductive health care services.” But this was not how the Catholic Church construed it. For the Catholic Church and the likes of El Shaddai leader Bro. Mike Velarde, the said bill opens the access to widespread use of contraceptives and artificial birth control devices, frowned upon by the Church which favors the natural method of family planning.

The bill is in itself subject for amendments but is, at this stage, confusing for the common people

Why So Serious?

separating seriousness from insanity, experts say. Being overly preoccupied with something – regardless of how important that thing is – can increase the risk of psychopathology (illness of the mind). Imagine yourself walking down a long road, and that road leads to an ultimate goal, say, to graduate in college. As you pace towards that goal, you keep thinking about it. When will I reach that place? How? What do I need to do? What do I need not to do?

Then your mind starts to swivel like it’s about to create a tornado, fixated on the desire to attain that something.

Along the road, however, you miss a lot of things that you essentially need more as a person, like keeping in touch with reality, maintaining relationships, getting the most of life, etc. Instead, your eyes go straight ahead; you never glance at the side of the road, so to speak. Now that ain’t healthy.

And besides, nobody likes the super-serious type anyway. While the world explodes in fun and laughter, the super-serious type raises his eyebrows and searches for “meaning”.

Sometimes, it’s just not human.

It’s obvious to see where this is going. Not quite though, for I’m not saying we should all be “happy-golucky” persons. Rather, we should know how to, at times, live life as a comedian, or a clown, if you will. I believe the more appropriate term is to “lighten up a bit”. Edward Mills in his blog said there are little things that we could do to avoid being swallowed by the serious side of our personality and create a sort of balance. I modified it a little bit to suit the average [Augustinian] student: 1. Watch a funny movie. Laughter is the best medicine, they say.

Prescription: A bunch of cackles a day.

2. Hang out with fun people. You do have some fun friends, don’t you?

3. Do something just for fun.

Without a definite purpose in mind, do something unusual. Listen to songs from your high school days.

Go hiking. Take pictures of dogs.

4. Get tipsy. Not endorsing alcoholism here. Once in a while, a drink or two in Times Square can help break the grip of seriousness and let the fun come out.

5. Surf YouTube for funny videos.

Watch Tonton and Benjo in action.

Or the interview portion of the recent Bb. Pilipinas.

6. Observe a news boycott. Let’s face it: the news is pretty darned serious.

Political wars, economic crises, terrorism, they’re just downright depressing! Take a break.

7. Hang out with some young(er) kids.

Kids are antidotes to seriousness.

They are experts of fun.

8. Go bowling. All right, it doesn’t have to be bowling. Could be badminton, ping-pong, or anything that is so far removed from your normal athletic pursuits that you won’t care how bad you play just to let yourself have a goofy good time.

9. Have a Karaoke Party. Gather up your friends, switch into jologs mode, head down to a karaoke bar at Robinson’s and start belting out those tunes.

10. Act weird once in a while.

Give your hair a messy look.

Try different dress color-combos during Fridays. Use a British accent when reciting in your class.

It won’t hurt to unleash the “Joker” in us every now and then.

But of course, we should maintain the equilibrium between what’s serious and what’s not. When your mother tells you to be serious with your studies, or when your lover tells you to be serious with your relationship, try to do so. Just keep it light.

Skeptic because its provisions haven’t been clearly bounded by specificity of objectives and the manner of its execution has just been generic in stipulation. I myself have several questions which the proponents of the bill should have had elucidated in their sessions and publicized for the common good: 1) What is the scope of the bill? 2) What are the specific grounds that led to drafting such bill?

3) Are these grounds sufficient and are these in compliance with all the existing reproductive health laws in the country?

I believe the scope of the Lagman bill has not been well-defined. For instance, the question “does it promote artificial family planning methods?” remains unanswerable to many. But it is likewise a general knowledge that giving Filipinos the right to choose the methods of their reproductive health practices paves the way to the possibility of practicing artificial contraceptive use. What’s the point of not specifying the family planning methods which the bill favors? To end public criticisms? Whatever the case is, I agree with the Catholic Church – that the use of contraceptives is just like committing abortion. Because of this, the bill does not serve what it claimed to be its primary purpose.

Why was such a bill drafted?

What were the bases for such drafting? Lagman and company have been justifying that there is a rapid increase in our population. Yes, this is true and in fact, the University of the Philippines Population Institute (UPPI) said in a flash report at TV

Patrol World several months ago [during the height of rice shortage issue] that our supply of rice is enough; it’s just that our population is ballooning. But could rapid increase in population or overpopulation per se justify the reproductive health bill? I don’t think so. China has more or less 2 billion people. Yet, their economy is in a fast sail towards progress. It is wrong to say that if a country is overpopulated it is poor as poverty and overpopulation are complementary. Non-sequitor.

Another reason: educating Filipinos towards proper reproductive health practices. Who among the Filipinos would be educated? The youth, the Filipino parents or all of us? Since before, I have viewed sex education inessential as I believe that Filipino parents are the proper authorities who shall orient their children on sex and puberty. The dilemma if we’ll promote sex education is that students might not take it too seriously and out of curiosity, might involve

The Augustinian

Prexy Speaks University of San Agustin Iloilo City Office of the USA Student Council The Quality Augustinian Leadership Three values summarize the ten Augustinian values: veritas, unitas and caritas – the values of truth, unity and charity. I believe that these values should be learned, developed and lived in ourselves, organizations, and community.

Prexy’s desk

Knowing Oneself As a leader, it is very basic for us to know and understand ourselves before knowing and understanding others. It is important to know the truth within ourselves before knowing the truth in others. In philosophy, there is a famous saying, “You cannot give what you don’t have”.

John Paul Petrola Now, how can we take part in group sharing if we don’t know what to share? It is therefore necessary to ask ourselves at this moment, “Am I willing to contribute what I have for my organization, for my university and for my community?”

Valuing my Organization One time, one of my officers asked me (during our group picture taking), “Pres, why do you keep calling our fellow officers who were not here?” I have drawn a circle on the board and told him, “This circle was formed at 360O, obviously, it has no sides and not deformed, in short, this is a perfect circle”. As student council, we are like that of a circle; each of us contributes a big part of the whole. If somebody is lost, this circle would not be anymore in its perfect shape rather a deformed one.

I just want to keep the circle of this organization.

Fellow leaders, each officer has something to contribute in making a group into a team. The difference between the group and a team according to Deborah Mackin is this: a group can be defined as a small group of people with complementary skills and abilities who are committed to a leader’s goal and approach and are willing to be held accountable by the leader while a Team is a small group of people with complementary skills and abilities who are committed to a common goal and approach for which they hold each other accountable. The value of unity comes in.

We are members of the team, I am accountable with you and you are accountable with me. You and I should play together in making our circle perfect.

Empowerment of Our Community We lead not because of prestige and honor but because we want to serve.

If we have known ourselves and have learned how to value our organization, it is now the time for us to empower our community. Our community is not only in the four walls of this University but also our adopted barangays which we are forming into a community. In this empowerment, value of charity is very important. We do serve not because it is part of our school and team’s activity but because we have that love for service.

In the writings of St. Augustine, he reiterated “partnership”, which he termed as man-God relationship and this had a deep meaning through his philosophy of “Participatio”, from particular to universal. Knowing oneself and valuing the orgnanization are very important in the empowerment of our community. These concepts constitute the “Participatio” of St. Augustine in the level of leadership which is manifested in friendship and partnership, so that, the truth we have found within ourselves, would be shared through unity with our organization and exercised to our community with charity. This is the Augustinian quality of leadership!

John Paul Petrola USA Student Council President A.Y. 2008-2009

themselves into premarital sex. Yes, I know I’m talking about possibilities here but considering the trend today, the age of students who are engaging in premarital sex is getting lower.

Uncouth.

If we want to end abortion and health malpractices, why not conduct effective raids in abortion offices?

Why not check on our barangay clinics and educate only the Filipino parents who are more mature in sexuality issues?

If we listen to the endless debates on whether or not we should push through the Lagman bill, we will be left in the state of confusion as both advocates of pro-life and pro-choice appear to be rich in credibility. When we are in the state of confusion, let’s think deeper. What appears to be an important issue at first might disprove itself after logical scrutiny.

Being a skeptic helped me analyze things in a way or another.

It’s nice to be skeptic.

FEATURE

The Augustinian

JULY 1 - AUGUST 15, 2008

Editor: JENNY CASTRO

A Tribute to the Country’s Unborn Sons & Daughters

By PIETROS VAL PATRICIO

‘Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations.’ - Jeremiah 1:5 AT the turn of the 21st century, the Philippine government has joined the call of Spain, Argentina, and a few other Latin American countries in celebrating the International Day of the Unborn Child every year to honor the victims of abortion around the world. Not too many of us are aware that March 25 is actually marked as a red letter day in our calendars now that the issue of abortion has been growing into a serious matter of social concern and debate these past years. It is one of the most talked about and sought after topics in our society today, nevertheless one of the world’s greatest problems concerning human rights.

The highly opinionated arguments of liberal and conservative intellectuals around the world strongly differ and contradict each other, followed by the moral and humanist concerns of society’s religious and health sectors. The legal grounds of abortion may vary in every country.

In many liberal countries of the western-developed world, abortion laws have long been recognized by governments. In some ‘open’ developing countries such as India, Kenya, and Bangladesh, abortion has been legalized several decades ago for health considerations while in China, it is legally practiced under lawful and cultural expectations (One Child Policy and the preference for male offspring) of the state.

Abortion is said to be often illegal in ‘conformist’ countries where religion and human moral ethics still assert strong influence over the mindsets of society and political leaders.

Many have assumed in the past that in ‘traditional’ Catholic nations, any move on the law of abortion would strongly be objected by the state and society. But through the rise of liberalist movements in Spain, Mexico and Italy a few years ago, abortion has become legal.

Why do people perform abortion?

There are many grounds on why individuals around the world engage in abortion every year, which apparently have stark contrasts. In countries where the act is legal, abortion is performed for the following considerations: to save a

pregnant woman’s life due to severe health risks, to preserve the woman’s mental or physical health, to selectively reduce the number of fetuses to lessen health risks associated with multiple pregnancy or to terminate a pregnancy that would result to a child born with ingrained disorders that would end up fatal anyway. If the grounds on abortion were based upon a pregnancy caused by rape/incest or accompanied by financial and social pressures, the matter then becomes a subject to be defended by the woman at a juridical court. In some countries, the issue on sex-selective abortion is still very much alive. Surveys have shown that parents in many Asian countries often have strong preference for sons due to the economic role that men play in their respective cultures. Unsafe abortion, on the other hand, is most often conducted in countries where abortion is illegal. In many developing countries like the Philippines, selfinduced abortion often occurs due to cultural and sociological backgrounds such as the fear of rejection from family members and society as well as the unpreparedness for teenage parenthood.

‘Moral’ & ‘Legal’ Debates Up to this day, a large number of complex issues still remain controversial in the debate over abortion. Its impacts on society have sparked countless points of view on both sides of the controversy wherein many individuals find it hard to establish a personal stand since the principles of health, morality and religion seem to overlap one another. Although many liberals in the Philippines have blamed the state for the lack of family planning programs and poor access to sex education, the Catholic Church has attested about its teachings regarding premarital sex and contraceptives.

The ethical debate over this matter often interferes with the applications of medicine and liberalism surrounding the issues on whether a fetus has its own rights, particularly a right to life, or if the woman has the lawful right to decide over her own body. As the pros would have it, “Is the fetus a human being with a fundamental right to life?”, wherein the cons would strongly

attest, “Does the woman have the right to choose whether or not to continue a pregnancy?” An overwhelming majority of Filipinos argue that abortion is morally wrong on the basis that the fetus is an innocent human being.

Others object this by drawing the distinction that a “human being” starkly differs from a “human person”, that even if a fetus is biologically human, it is still not a person since it doesn’t have its own conscience, rationality, and autonomy. A stronger position, however, claims that a fetus still has the capacity to feel pain, giving it all the right to life. Another medical argument claims that even if a fetus has a right to life, a woman still has the moral and essential right to control her own body.

But in the case of pregnancy arising from voluntary sexual intercourse, the woman has tacitly given the fetus consent to use her body, there as giving her the duty to be responsible for it.

Many also say that the case of unborn infants is not by any means different from comatose patients as well as brain-dead individuals who are unable to apply their conscience.

Methods of Abortion The act of abortion is generally defined by medicine as the removal or ejection of an embryo or fetus from a female’s uterus resulting to its death.

The expulsion of an embryo from a woman’s body by medical means varies in many surgical and medical ways. The most common method is the vacuum abortion known as the manual vacuum aspiration (MVA) wherein the fetus or embryo is removed by suction using a manual plunger. The electric vacuum aspiration (EVA) technique uses an electric pump which kills the fetus instantly before ejecting it out of the uterus. Another method is the curettage wherein the uterus is emptied by cutting the fetus into pieces and then vacuumed out of the body while the intrauterine cranial decompression technique requires the surgical squashing of a fetus’ head before expulsion. Suppose a fetus subject to abortion should be delivered prematurely, it is injected with prostaglandin together with other fluids and solutions to instantly poison the infant. There many other methods that are considered to be unsafe and illegal, mostly encountered

in developing countries. An ancient tradition of abortion through forceful abdominal massage or hilot exists in Southeast Asia.

At a Glance The World Health Organization has announced its annual prediction of abortions being conducted around the world numbering close to 45 million cases every year, half of which are performed under illegal circumstances that are considered to be deadly and unaccepted by medical standards.

The world’s ratio on intentional abortions is averaged to 26 per 100 known pregnancies. According to the Department of Health and the National Statistics Office, the Philippines has an estimated abortion rate averaging to more than 450,000 cases annually since 1991, most of which are selfinduced by women who engage in some of the most dangerous and fatal methods imaginable: the insertion of knitting needles, metal hangers as well as bamboo sticks into the uterus. That is equivalent to millions of unborn Filipinos killed within a short span of almost two decades, murdered by their own mothers under the most hazardous ways before getting to see a glimpse of light from the world, not to mention the fact that abortion in the Philippines is prohibited by law and socially regarded as a heinous crime against humanity.

Outcomes & Effects Abortion has become a global health concern these years due to the physical and psychological after effects

damage to other parts of the internal organs, infectious reactions in the body, internal bleeding as well as emotional and even mental breakdowns to women. Psychologists argue that the adverse effects that abortion brings to an individual usually last for a lifetime. Its scars on a person’s life apparently last forever, accompanied by severe anger, shame, and guilt. Individuals often suffer long-term depressions, violence, nightmares, and hallucinations. These consequences also involve the men who ‘fathered’ these unborn infants and also took part in the abortion process. Its effects may even lead to male impotence and female phobia towards pregnancy matters.

Last year, around eight aborted fetuses were found scattered in the streets of Iloilo City’s downtown area according to local media reports; they were either thrown in plastic bags along the sidewalks or hidden under the piles of garbage in public trashcans. Around two months ago, another fetus has been found, this time along Jalandoni St., only a few blocks away from the University’s side gate.

It is a sad reality that the victims of abortion are innocent human lives who could have otherwise become the country’s next generation of great heroes, brilliant leaders, talented artists and innovators who would bring us honor and glory if only given the chance to live. The issue on abortion as a whole should raise everyone’s awareness towards the human interests of all unborn individuals for we also believe that every individual, whether born or unborn, has the ultimate right to life.

it brings to a large number of individuals who have performed it such as the

A sneak peek of a Nursing student’s life in a Kidney Unit:

By Cara Uy

Have you ever wondered how an individual’s life would revolve without his/her kidneys functioning normally? I can’t imagine how. And, if I can try to imagine, I refuse to.

My exposure at the Kidney Unit of West Visayas State University Medical Center on July 14-16 and July 21-23 under Johan Macapar, R.N., our clinical instructor, made me realize that life without functioning kidneys is indeed complex. It sounds absurd though. Without any idea of what lies ahead of us, we become so

engrossed, excited, and frightened at the same time, knowing that only a few of us – only Augustinian nursing students – were given the chance to be exposed in this area of the hospital. We were privileged enough because our group was the last to be picked up from the class to have a hands on experience at the Kidney Unit.

Easing the Hard-to-get process The Kidney Unit is an area where patients undergo a procedure

called dialysis. Dialysis is a medical process through which a person’s blood is cleansed of the toxins which the kidneys would normally flush out. It is generally used when an individual’s kidneys no longer function properly. However, the one we are most probably familiar with is Hemodialysis (HD), which can be an in-patient or out-patient therapy. This procedure is performed as the patient is hooked up via tubes attached to the veins, through insertion of two needle sticks – one to carry blood

to the dialyzer (a large canister containing thousands of small fibers through which the blood passes) and another to return the cleaned blood to the body, to a machine that circulates one’s blood through semi-permeable filters that take out the toxins in the blood. The procedure usually takes three to four hours.

Experiencing the good thing During the first day, we were oriented by Sir Macapar about the area, the protocols, and the things

we need to do which included taking and filling out of the patient’s chart, pre-HD blood pressure (BP) and pre-HD weight when the patient arrives, and preparing the patient’s bed and the HD machine for priming.

Also, we became on-lookers of how the hospital staff were preparing the machine. It was complicated, though. Looking at them attaching the lengthy tubings, in red (artery) and blue (venous) colors to the dialysis machine, which looks like Continue to page 7

FEATURE

JULY 1 - AUGUST 15, 2008

The Augustinian

Editor: JENNY CASTRO

The passionate world of dating:

USALT, Stage One Company stage...

By JENNY CASTRO and PIETROS VAL PATRICIO

What else do you expect could happen to a romantic couple after shortly breaking up? One can just imagine the hilarious series of events that would follow in the desperate search of an ‘ideal’ partner. The recently accomplished performances of the University of San Agustin Little Theater (USALT) together with its alumni and the Stage One Company in cooperation with the Center for Culture and the Arts held at the USA Conference Room kicked off with great success earlier this year.

The play was first performed on July 1-3 staged by a four-man cast comprised by thespians of the USALT and guest performers from the USA Student Council (USASC) 2007-08. The show was performed in accordance to the celebration of the 10th anniversary of the Stage One Company.

Story and Cast Written by the renowned American playwright Jonathan Rand, “Check Please: Take 2” is a romantic comedy filled with extreme circumstances as a sequel to its first part, wherein a handsome guy and a beautiful girl searching for love find one another. In the second part, the story continues with the guy and girl falling out of love.

Pressured by their wellintentioned best friends, both eventually decide to go different ways and get back into the game of love through a series of blind romances. Unfortunately, the two found themselves in an unusual dating pool of wild circumstances, each having numerous and amusing encounters with all kinds of odd people. This pool was packed with a foot-reading psychic, an internet geek, an extreme accountant, and a wide range of funny characters with the most varying personalities.

In the end they begin to realize that what they have been looking for was actually just right in front of them. ...Continued from page 6

an Automated Teller Machine, really confused me a lot. We continued observing them, waiting for the machine to purge gas. Then they did the bubbling and squeezing thing – the removal of bubbles from the

The portrayals of both lead characters were well-delivered. One of the greatest factors that have definitely added more appeal to the play was the strong chemistry of their physical appearances that stroke a magnifying chemistry to the viewers. Many spectators have commented on the lead actress (Noreen Mae Orquinaza) for looking good in her balanced make up and for having a fine taste for elegant evening attires accented by her fashionable shoes, signature bags and elegant earrings. She has managed to deliver her role gracefully with her wit, humor and fluency of speech. Her noticeable beauty queen looks and strong acting chemistry was also a big asset to the show. The portrayal of the guy (Christopher Tan) also had a stellar portrayal by its actor, most significantly for rendering a strong ‘chiller’ effect on the female spectators of the show. He may have had a few difficulties with his English intonations at some parts of his script but the actor has nevertheless carried out his acts very well by captivating the crowds with his romantic appeal and celebrity good looks which was also said to be an instant shoo-in in the showbiz industry.

Most of their supporting characters were delivered brilliantly and have radiated more life, humor and energy to the show, although there were also a few dull moments in some instances.

The cast of characters from the Stage One Company were Joseph Evans Ocbeña as the guy, JP Libo-on as the girl, Ma. Cristina Reyes as Kim, Edison Sicad as Hank, Roxanne Prieto as Donna,

Arial Sugeco as Julia, Quezzy Claire Pedregosa as Cleo/Assistant Director, Leanne Claire Marie Salas as Jackie, Avelino Dayang Jr., as Lyle, Kristoffer Rhys Grabato as Paul, Jim dela Cuesta as Dewey, and Lou Anthony Tan as Alex. For the four-man play, some roles were switched with Ocbeña and Libo-on retaining their roles as the lead characters while Claire Marie Salas played as Kim/girl dates and Kristoffer Rhys Grabato as Hank/guy dates.

Indigenized Touches Due to popular demand of their first performance, the directors and stage producers decided to come up with an extension date and eventually restaged the show from August 7-8 at the same venue, this time with a Hiligaynon rendition of the twelve-man show entitled “Chit Gani!”

Its unique adaptation to native touches was said to be one of the most well-appreciated aspects of the play according to critics. It was certainly a great help for the benefit of the audiences, for them to easily comprehend and appreciate the true message and essence of the play better.

The Ilonggo adaptation of the play was delivered by the USALT, its alumni, USASC ‘07-’08 and the Company Call! 1 alumni. Tan and Orquinaza retained their respective roles as the lead characters while Eunice Caro portrayed Kim, Peter Paul Deocos as Hank, Lynden Mechael Magsico as Donna, Greggy Daniel Arcena as Lyle, Richel Ann Bito-on as Julia, Serren

Lor Gallinero and John Jesner Punsaran as Dewey, Kathleen Quiambao and Jat Deslate as Jackie, Manilyn Glemer as Princesa Bukang Linglingan, Annie Lyn Cataya as Ati-Ati, Pedregosa and Kirsten Marie Primavera as Cleo, and Grabato and Punsaran as Paul.

Set Up, Musical Score and Stage Production The show was set in a restaurant café with elegant dining tables, wine glasses, chairs and napkins surrounded by exquisite paintings and hanging plants that made the place look like a five star European hotel resembling a romantic movie scene. It was accompanied by two comfortable couches, colorful pillows and playstation controls at the back to represent the home scenes. The USA Conference Room has been given an exclusive state-of-the-art uplift followed by the unique idea of having its ushers and usherettes dressed up in waiter attires and having them generously assist the guests in and out of their seats during the duration of the show.

The pale lighting effects that varied from warm tones of yellow, red, orange and green delivered unique illuminations that gave more emphasis to the reflective mood of the show.

The in and outs of the lighting was appropriate to the frequently altering scenes and moods. The stage and technical management was excellently accomplished. Despite of the lack of modern technological facilities such as the absence of a sound mixing device, the crew still managed to deliver the proper sound effects. The

choice of music was great, only that there were some instances during the play when the stereos turned out to produce slightly blurred tones.

The good music generated a good atmosphere in the room but the use of the “music-cut-music” act, which was actually intended to signify the entrance and exit of the characters and moods, could have been altered more pleasingly to the ears of the audiences if the “fade in and out” music technique has been applied in order to avoid sudden musical cuts in the sound intervals mostly during the first day of restaging Chit Gane.

In terms of speech, the actors and actresses were very understandable, although contrasts in the volume of their voices were also observed in some acts.

The artistic and executive directors of the play were Edward and Eric Divinagracia with Niña Ricci Matulac who served as house manager as well as technical and assistant director. Lou Anthony Tan and Caro were the production managers of the show together with the support and collaboration of the Humanities and Languages Departments, Babak Niaraki, Elsed Togonon, Poukeepsee, Tara Yap of The Daily Guardian and the USA Publications. Through the strong promotional efforts of the event, the USA Conference Room was fully occupied by students, teachers and guests during the performance dates.

The directors, cast and organizers behind the production of “Check Please: Take 2” certainly deserve a wide round of applause for its success.

The Cast

Executive and Artistic Directors Assistant Directors

tubings. The next thing they did was the coupling, whereby dialyzate came in and out from the dialyzer membrane, and they ended with testing the absence of the Renalin, a toxic substance used to preserve the membrane when it is ready to be inserted to the patient.

We a l s o d i d s u c h procedures the next day through “ o n e (staff)on-one (student nurse)” guidance of the staff and our C.I. every time we performed

priming. Being a technician was truly a fun-filled experience. We happened to manipulate the machine and the tubings, assist the IV therapist nurse, and clean up the membrane (dialyzer) used during dialysis. After being a technician, our roles were shifted to being a nurse. We now apply the orientation explained to us before. Here, our role involves close monitoring of the patient’s BP and cardiac rate and watching over the machines for warnings during the HD and taking of post-HD BP and post-HD weight and ensuring that patients would have been injected with Recormon by the staff after HD. Learning and Insights Being exposed in this area is very enriching. It is a venue where the learning process transpires equally.

This is honestly the exposure which has left significant marks in me, primarily because in this area, we experience warm accommodation.

This is the area where I feel part of the circle of health care providers, not belittled but taught many things that we need to learn about. The staff headed by Luis Toledo, R.N., taught us regarding the water treatment. He always sees to it that liberal learning among the staff under him is existent.

I have also appreciated our clinical instructor because of his expertise in the field and his system of dealing with us. It would have been harder for us if no proper orientation was done beforehand. Although pressure was high because he initiated the staff to throw inquiries at us, we felt that more or less, we became a part of the institution, not merely treated

as nursing students.

Above all, the patients’ health condition held me to pause and to reflect how life would be when they are so dependent now with the dialysis machine for twice or thrice in a week, over hours of encountering piercing of large needle sticks and experiencing hypo/hypertension (decrease or increase in BP) among others. They, as well, stimulate my mind to ponder how they cope during the first few months of being under hemodialysis considering that most patients have irreversible renal failure. These circumstances helped me to recognize the vital function of kidneys, the complicated organs that have numerous biological roles.

Source: http://www.wisegeek. com/what-is-dialysis.htm

SPORTS/NEWS

The Augustinian

Editor: PAULO MOISES BAYABOS

USA Golden Eagles nip PBA Veterans, 106-102

By PIETROS VAL PATRICIO

USA Golden Eagles soar 3rd in 6th Dumarao Invitational Tournament

By Donna Isabelle Fresnido

The USA Golden Eagles, after their victory over the PBA Veterans last month, are on a roll.

The Eagles snatched the b r o n z e i n t h e 6 th D u m a r a o Invitational Tournament last July 12 to August 10 after bowing to Colegio de la Purisima Concepcion College in the semifinals and closing the tournament with a 4-2 win-loss slate.

According to the Eagles’ coach, Mr. Rodolfo Betito, Jr., they landed in third place through the team’s commitment; the Eagles’ are in a rebuilding process which involves desire, effort, commitment and attitudinal change.

the two teams, however, was not an easy war. But the Augustinian players managed to outscore their older counterparts and eventually won.

The team was under the traineeship of their head coach, Rodolfo Betito, Jr.; accompanied by the assistance of Assistant Sports Director Demosthenes Toledo, Team Statistician and Coordinator Carlos Mamon and Assistant Coach Jack Janeo. The varsity scholars who played for Team Deco’s were Rolyn Ardonia, BS Crim 3; Douglas Belmonte, BS HRM 3; Mil Ian John Bibaoco, BS Crim 1; Carl Vincent Cabuday, BS Bio 4; Skyld Corillo, BST 3; Daryl Dequino, BS Crim 3; Felix John Garrido, BST 1; Wilfredo Rodrigo II, BS MA 4; Chyriel

Servidad, BS Crim 2; Juilliard Seth Yap, BS MA 4 and Jeard Ventura.

The PBA veterans conducted a motorcade around the city’s downtown area after the game to greet their Ilonggo fans before proceeding to the Jaro Gym to visit the displaced victims of Typhoon Frank. The former basketball stars who composed the PBA Veterans team were Bobby Jose, Mark Steven Victoria, Joey Santamaria, Zaldy Realubit, John Cardel, Elmer Reyes, Ronald Magtulis, Nandy Garcia, Ato Agustin, Tonyboy Espinosa, Ed Cordero and Bonel Balingit.

Their short stint in Iloilo was part of the three-day PBA Veterans Tour in Western Visayas organized by Invictus in cooperation with Panay News.

Tadlas wins this year’s Milo Marathon leg

By PIETROS VAL PATRICIO

An Augustinian athlete has taken home the bacon earlier this year upon reaching the finish line ahead of more than 7,500 participants.

M a y J a l e s Ta d l a s , a B S Psychology junior who is also a member of the University’s Track and Field varsity team, emerged victorious as the grand winner of the 32nd Milo Marathon leg held in this city on July 6. Finishing first at the five kilometer run which started from the Freedom Grandstand up to the Sarabia Manor Hotel and all the way back passing through Ybiernas St., Tadlas received a token of merit from the organizers of the event handed personally by City Cong. Raul Gonzales, Jr. and City Councilor Hon. Joe Espinosa III. She was later then stormed by local media men after the awarding of her

triumphant feat.

Ta d l a s won in countless regional and national athletic tournaments during her high school years up to Tadlas the present and has ended up a finalist of the said annual event for the past two years. She is trained under the traineeship of Mr. Alex Arrey and with Mr. Rudy Perez as her head coach. She will be sent to Manila later this year to compete in a national triathlon competition for the very first time.

Responding to the call for service: Augustinian Frasority aids Frank victims of Janiuay

By Paulo Moises Bayabos

July 20 – The Sigma Chi and Mu Sigma Phi Frasority, a true-blue Augustinian student organization,

conducted a community outreach program in Brgy. Tolarucan, Janiuay, Iloilo in response to the typhoon-

BROTHERLY LOVE AND SERVICE. After lending relief goods, resident and alumni members of the Sigma Chi and Mu Sigma Phi Frasority pose with Typhoon Frank victims in Brgy. Tolarucan, Janiuay.

PATRON SAINTS DAY 2008 4th VISION-MISSION AWARENESS WEEK August 20-29, 2008 “Theme: St. Augustine: Guide to Interiority, Man of Prayer” Schedule of Activities

USA Basketball Varsitarians and coach Rodolfo Betito, Jr. (standing 5th from L) pose before the camera after nipping the PBA Veterans team.

Our Augustinian basketball players had all the reason to rejoice earlier this year after kicking off with a successful bout against the Batang Star Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Veterans Team.

The university’s basketball varsity players, under the sponsorship of Deco’s Original La Paz Batchoy, has once again proven their might after outdoing the PBA veteran players during a friendly match at the USA Gymnasium, July 12. Despite the towering heights of the former PBA stars, they were pretty much surprised by the balanced attacks of the young home-grown boys during their exhibition match held at the newly-renovated indoor basketball court. The stiff competition between

JULY 1 - AUGUST 15, 2008

aftermath crisis being experienced by Frank victims of the said community.

In this generous act of brotherly love and service, the Frasority donated gift packs, each containing 2 kilograms of rice, three cans of sardines, 1 kilogram of sugar, 1 pack of coffee, and one bar of detergent soap. A total of 200 families were the beneficiaries of these gifts. The program was held inside their community church.

“Typhoon Frank was so tragic,” Grand Archon Lyle Ryner Lapidez said in an interview with The Augustinian.

“We just want to extend our deepest sympathy by reaching out to them.

As students, this is our simple way of helping.”

Velada: Tarangban August 20 Lopez Hall Center for Culture and the Arts 6:00 PM (USA Gym) Office of Co-curricular Activities Featuring August 21 USA Little Theater 4:00 PM USA Choir and Troubadours 6:00 PM Novena Masses for St. Augustine August 19-27 Mentrida Hall Campus Ministry (Chapel) Day 1-4, 8 August 19-22, 26

5:00 PM Day 5-7 August 23-25

7:00 AM Day 9 August 27 Mass Confirmation 4:00 PM General Assembly and Election of Officers August 24 Blanco Hall USA Parents Association 7:00 AM (Conference Room) Tilipunan Tiyangge August 26-29 St. Augustine Hall Community Service Center 8:00-5:00 PM (Co-curricular Activities

office–USA Bookstore Lobby) St. Augustine Poetry Writing Contest August 26 Gamboa Hall USA Publications (Deadline) 3rd Floor, Room 38

(USA Publications Office) Humanities Forum August 26 St. Augustine Hall “Augustine and Psychology” 2:00 PM (PMT Review Center) By: Abraham B. Pinuela Reactor: Nenita L. Villanueva, EdD Humanities Department Film Showing August 26 Football Field Passion for Life 5:30 PM (The Life of St. Augustine) Bulletin Board Contest August 27 USA Campus USA Student Council Floral Offering/Procession August 28 Statue of St. Augustine Basic Education Department 6:00 AM Eucharistic Celebration August 28 USA Campus Campus Ministry 8:00 AM Lopez Hall (USA Gym) Professional Chair Lecture August 28 Blanco Hall Building Arts Management Theoretical 10:00 AM (Conference Room) Framework: The Augustinian Experience Dr. Amorita Rabuco, PhD St. Augustine Scholarship Contest August 28 Lopez Hall Theology Office 10:00 AM (Gym) Salo-salo Fiesta August 28 University Parks Colleges/Departments 12:00 NN College/Departmental Activities August 28 University Parks Colleges/Departments 12:00 NN Musical and Dance Contest August 28 Lopez Hall USA Student Council 4:00 PM (Gym) Office of Co-curricular Activities PE Department Events: Vocal Solo (Classical and Pop) Vocal Duet (Pop) Dance Sports (Latin and Standard) Modern Dance Live Band August 28 Sta. Monica Hall USA Student Council 8:00 PM (Student Center) Literary Contest August 29 Blanco Hall Languages Department 8:00 AM (Conference Room) Events: Oration (English/Filipino) Declamation (English/Filipino) Extemporaneous Speech (English/Filipino) Binalaybay Videoke Challenge August 29 Sta. Monica Hall USA Student Council 9:00 AM (Student Center) Parade of Athletes August 29 USA Main Campus Sports Office 1:00 PM Opening of Intramurals August 29 Lopez Hall Sports Office/PE Department 2:00 PM (Gym) Events: Opening Game: Basketball (Men) College of Engineering and Architecture vs.

College of Business Administration and Accountancy Miss Intrams Cheer Dance

(1930-2008) By the USA Publications Staff The academic community of the University of San Agustin would like to extend its deepest condolences to the friends and family members of Victoriano B. Ledesma for the repose of his soul.

Popularly known as “Coach Bing”, he has offered his loyalty to the university for 41 years, from June 1958 until eventually retiring in May 1999, as the coach of the USA Golden Eagles Varsity Team as well as the Director of the Sports Office.

He was known to be an approachable and very likable person who maintained very close ties with varsity scholars even long after they’ve graduated.

Among the former PBA (Philippines Basketball Association) stars trained under him were Jimmy Noblezada, Danny Basilan, Bong Ravena and many more.

According to USA Golden Eagles alumni Snook Divinagracia, who is currently the president of the Iloilo Basketball Association, Coach Bing was a great man who has greatly contributed to the University’s athletic attainments.

He will surely be missed by many.