THE VARSITARIAN P.Y. 2023-2024 ISSUE 12

VOLUME XCV / NO. 12 · APRIL 10, 2024 · THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF SANTO TOMAS · Manila, Philippines

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THE SEVEN candidates for the upcoming Central Student Council (CSC) polls have withdrawn from their races, with six of them citing a “system resistant to reform” that would hinder their ability to serve effectively.

Candidates Timothy John Santiago (president), Matthew Enriquez (vice president), Hannah Calara (secretary), Hanah de Leon (treasurer), Josh Viray (auditor), and Francine Tuazon (public relations officer) sent notice of their withdrawals to the UST Central Commission on Elections

OSA to begin dialogues with student leaders, orgs

By Mabel Anne B. Cardinez

THE OFFICE for Student Affairs (OSA) is set to begin its series of dialogues with student organizations and councils on April 15, a month after the formation of a technical working group to review student-related policies and guidelines.

In a memorandum issued on April 3, OSA Officer in Charge Jaezamie Ong tasked recognized student organization officers, student leaders, and members of local Commission on Election (Comelec) offices to hold dialogues with their own clusters before their scheduled appointments with the OSA. “Each student organization will be tasked with convening a dialogue within their respective clusters to discuss collective concerns, feedback,

(Comelec) within a five-minute span via email on March 20.

In a joint statement released shortly after the Comelec announced their withdrawal, the candidates cited campus media censorship, red-tagging, suppression of democratic rights and student welfare, and the entrenched bureaucratic system as factors influencing their decision to withdraw.

“We find ourselves compelled to take a principled stand against participating in a system resistant to reform.

In the face of these challenges, we have been forced to reassess

‘‘

It is now evident that we are vying for positions where we are prevented from fulfilling our duty of representing our fellow students and providing the Thomasian community with the service that they deserve.

CSC candidates

IN A JOINT STATEMENT ON MARCH 20

the feasibility of our collective goals and the efficacy of our approach,” their statement read.

The candidates said the Office for Student Affairs’ (OSA) censorship of TomasinoWeb exposed the “Pandora’s box of the pervasive culture of suppression and repression of the University towards its students.”.

They also cited what they described as a “dysfunctional and oppressive system,” noting that student leaders were unable to implement projects, particularly dialogues concerning the CSC Constitutional

Revision and the adoption of the Student Code.

CSC leaders have repeatedly attempted to change their charter, but without success. Incumbent council president Ierathel Tabuno had said the proposed changes would be a means of transitioning toward a policy-driven council and “beyond organizing events.”

“It is now evident that we are vying for positions where we are prevented from fulfilling our duty of representing our fellow students and providing WITHDRAW PAGE 10

Relief measures vs heat in place as onsite classes continue—UST official

By Ernest Martin G. Tuazon

FACE-TO-FACE classes at UST will continue as scheduled, with alternative venues provided for courses affected by severe heat, the Office of the Vice Rector for Academic Affairs (OVRAA) said.

In an email to the Varsitarian, Vice Rector for Academic Af-

fairs Cheryl Peralta said her office has given directives to academic units, specifically the Institute of Physical Education and Athletics (IPEA), regarding class management during hot weather.

“Where extreme heat may require classes to be transferred indoors, alternative facilities will be identified without compromising the achievement of intended learning outcomes,” she said.

HEAT PAGE 3

► DIALOGUE PAGE 10 ► Thomasians walk past the UST block letters at the Plaza Mayor during the 'Grand Yellow Day' on Sept.

27, 2023. —FILE PHOTO

►

►

UST GENSAN ► PAGE 8

Chapel of UST GenSan Main Building blessed EDITORIAL ► PAGE 9

Oft-weaponized, anti-activist Student Handbook needs revision

ART BY ALLAN CHRISTOPHER M. SAYAT

NO CSC POLLS AS 7 BETS WITHDRAW IN PROTEST

2

THE VARSITARIAN • APRIL 10, 2024

NEWS

EDITOR: NYAH GENELLE C. DE LEON

‘Worrisome but valid’: Outgoing CSC officers back candidates’ mass withdrawal THE OUTGOING Central Student Council (CSC) officers said the decision of all candidates for the upcoming Executive Board elections to withdraw was a valid but worrisome action, as it could leave the student body without any representation.

The upcoming CSC Executive Board elections have encountered a significant setback, with all candidates withdrawing as of Friday afternoon.

According to outgoing CSC President Ierathel Tabuno, although the council cannot compel students to run for CSC positions, there are still “other avenues” to serve the Thomasian community.

“We also have to recognize that we still have a fight going on. We still haven’t achieved what we need to achieve. We still haven’t experienced the change that we were supposed to experience [in] the very first place,” she told the Varsitarian.

Candidates Timothy John Santiago (president), Matthew Enriquez (vice president), Hannah Calara (secretary), Hanah de Leon (treasurer), Josh Viray (auditor), and Francine Tuazon (public relations officer) withdrew from their respective races on Wednesday afternoon.

“I understand where they might be coming from. It took a big leap of decision and much more for them to actually say na hindi nila kakayanin to be in that position,” Tabuno said.

The Comelec has yet to release guidelines on the updated election procedure following the withdrawal of all CSC candidates.

What OSA thinks

Two days later, Stephan Aseron, another candidate for auditor, submitted his withdrawal to the Central Commission on Elections (Comelec), completing the withdrawal of all candidates.

Aiah Jacinto, the outgoing CSC vice president, described the candidates’ move as “worrisome” but “valid.”

“We can’t blame them because, as former candidates ourselves, it took so much for us to decide that we wanted to run. It took so much for us to accept the position,” she said.

Tabuno said the mass withdrawal was an act of courage.

Asst. Prof. Jaezamie Ong, the officer in charge of the Office for Student Affairs (OSA) and adviser of the CSC while the OSA director is on medical leave, said she would follow the guidelines set by the Central Comelec regarding the course of action to be taken following the withdrawal of the candidates.

“We will just have to follow the constitution of the Comelec and CSC. Wala naman akong magagawa doon kasi hawak ‘yun ng Comelec,” Ong told the Varsitarian. “It is not anymore up to me or anybody from us to check on this kasi Comelec talaga ‘yun.”

The OSA played a significant role in the candidates’ decision to withdraw.

The former CSC candidates pointed to the office’s censorship

of student media organization TomasinoWeb as the incident that opened the “Pandora’s box of the pervasive culture of suppression and repression of the University towards its students.”

“We find ourselves compelled to take a principled stand against participating in a system resistant to reform. In the face of these challenges, we have been forced to reassess the feasibility of our collective goals and the efficacy of our approach,” the candidates said in a statement following their withdrawal.

Ong, who assumed the leadership of OSA on March 14, said student governance should not be limited to “just politics” but should instead prioritize service.

“It’s not just politics for me,” she said. “I don’t want to look at it as politics kasi for me, if you run for a position, you are not just running for a position—you are yearning to serve.”

“The student council is a position to serve. Kung naramdaman nila, kung ano man ‘yon, hindi ko ‘yon pwede panghimasukan,” she added. MABEL ANNE B. CARDINEZ AND HANNAH JOYCE V. ANDAYA WITH

REPORTS FROM LOGAN KAL-EL M. ZAPANTA AND MIKHAIL S. OROZCO

Licensure Examinations

UST is No. 10 in March 2024 medtech board exams

By Fernando Pierre Marcel B. de la Cruz

TWO THOMASIANS landed in the top 10 of the March 2024 licensure examinations for medical technologists, while UST was recognized as the No. 10 top-performing school.

Leading the batch of new Thomasian medical technologists were Angela Regalado and Denise Rivera, who tied at No. 5 after scoring 92.30 percent.

The University maintained its passing rate of 93.86 percent, with 214 out of 228 examinees making the cut, consistent with the August 2023 cycle where 367 out of 391 passed.

Cebu Doctors University and the Notre Dame of Marbel University were named the No. 1 top-performing schools after recording perfect passing rates.

Jeency Pilapil of Cebu Doctors University topped the exams with a score of 93 percent.

The national passing rate increased to 80.60 percent (7,309 of 9,068) from 73.73 percent (3,982 of 5,401) in the previous cycle.

The medical technology licensure exams were held from March 21 to 22.

► Various buildings in UST experience a power outage on April 4 following a loud explosion that

was heard at the Dapitan side of UST. —PHOTO BY JEREMY R. EDERA

Blown fuses cause 15-hour power outage THE UNPRECEDENTED 15hour power outage at the UST campus was due to blown fuses, electric distribution company Meralco said on April 5.

Power at the University was restored the folllowing morning after an outage that began at approximately 6:55 p.m. on April 4, which forced Thomasians to shift to online classes and work.

“Based on initial investigation, two fuses on the primary metering pole were busted due to a fault on UST’s load side electrical facilities,” Meralco said in a statement.

In an electrical system, there are typically two main sides: the utility side, which is owned and managed by the electricity provider (Meralco, in this case), and the load side, which is owned and managed by the customer (UST, in this case).

The load side includes the electrical wiring, transformers, and other equipment used by

the customer to distribute electricity within its premises.

The electricity distributor informed the Varsitarian that power was restored at 10:10 a.m. on April 5.

UST Facilities Management Office Director Fr. Dexter Austria, O.P. confirmed the restoration to the Varsitarian a few minutes later.

The power outage, which lasted 15 hours and 25 minutes, occurred following a loud boom heard near the St. Raymund de Peñafort Building in Dapitan.

A second loud boom was heard near Gate 11 at 7:53 p.m. while Meralco representatives were conducting inspections, followed by another at 10:08 p.m.

According to the initial assessment by the Campus Safety and Security Office, power was quickly restored at the UST Hospital, Buenaventura Garcia Paredes, O.P. Building, Beato An-

gelico Building, Albertus Magnus Building, Main Building, the student-athlete dormitory at the UST Carpark, Central Laboratory, and the Quadricentennial Pavilion.

The incident resulted in a long line of vehicles waiting to leave the UST Carpark until after 9:30 p.m., with carpark staff calculating parking fees manually due to the power failure. It also resulted in blackouts at restaurants in the carpark building.

Some people were briefly trapped in elevators, such as those in the Albertus Magnus Building, before power was restored.

Generators restored power for most buildings except for a few near the Dapitan area including the St. Raymund de Peñafort Building, Tan Yan Kee Student Center, Miguel de Benavides Library, and San Martin de Porres Building.

FERNANDO PIERRE MARCEL B. DELA CRUZ

Obituary

► ‘Doc Gia’ Baquiren-Sison

‘Doc Gia,’ Thomasian mental health advocate, dies at 53 DR. MA. GIA Grace Baquiran-Sison, a Thomasian physician known for her mental health advocacy, passed away on March 21 at age 53.

The doctor, better known on social media as “Doc Gia,” died of pulmonary embolism and heart failure, according to her husband, Dr. Rogin Sison.

After overcoming breast cancer, which she was diagnosed with in 2013, she became an advocate, raising awareness about the disease as well as mental health and other public health issues.

“No words can express the sorrow but I am happy you are peaceful now, no pain, no sufferings. I love you so much my soulmate, my Henny Hen,” her husband wrote on Facebook.

Sison, who specializes in occupational medicine, obtained her medical degree at the University in 1996.

Less than a month before her passing, Sison revealed on X (formerly Twitter) that she had experienced a six-second episode of aborted sudden cardiac death.

“I died for six (6) seconds, stuck in a black hole then suddenly scooped back in with the prominent voice of my husband repeatedly asking me to ‘come back’ after which I heard him apologize for defibrillating me and the rest just happened so fast,” she said.

ICanServe Foundation, Inc., an advocacy group promoting breast cancer awareness, described Sison as someone who was “always quick to lovingly extend a helping hand.”

“Doc Gia wore many hats and was beloved by the countless people she touched through her passionate work as a medical doctor and mental health advocate,” it said in a Facebook post.

Before her passing, Sison served as the head of the Women Wellness Center at Makati Medical Center and Philippine leader for Livestrong Foundation.

She was the national adviser of the Youth for Mental Health Coalition.

She regularly participated in programs initiated by UST on mental health and other health-related matters.

Sen. Risa Hontiveros and lawyer Chel Diokno paid tribute to Sison on X. “She always made time for us, was always so warm, always so generous with her light,” Hontiveros wrote.

“Your voice and dedication to mental health awareness, especially during the challenging times of quarantine, have left an indelible mark.

Your legacy will continue to inspire and help many,” Diokno said.

Sison previously hosted GTalks, a podcast series on CNN Philippines that delved into real-life situations.

She was also known for co-hosting episodes on other podcasts, including “The Linya-Linya Show.”

Sison co-founded #HealthXPh, a platform advocating for the responsible use of social media in healthcare.

Her inurnment was held at The Heritage Park in Fort Bonifacio on Sunday, March 24. MIKHAIL S. OROZ-

THE VARSITARIAN • APRIL 10, 2024

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NEWS UST-AMV College of Accountancy bans use of single-use plastics

By Ernest Martin G. Tuazon

THE UST-Alfredo M. Velayo College of Accountancy will prohibit the use of single-use plastics starting April 8, as it aims to encourage the use of reusable alternatives.

In a memorandum dated April 3, Accountancy Dean Patricia Empleo announced a ban on single-use plastics within the college premises. The college occupies the Albertus Magnus Building with the College of Education, Education High School, and the Conservatory of Music.

“All academic staff, support staff and students are enjoined to bring their own reusable water bottles, straws, and bags,” the memorandum read.

Heat ► FROM PAGE 1

For physical education classes, instructors may transfer to indoor facilities and were advised to remind students about being hydrated.

“I have coordinated with the IPEA, who confirmed that teachers and students are frequently reminded to hydrate themselves and use protective head covering when appropriate,” Peralta said.

Peralta said her office and the Office of the Secretary General have concluded that University facilities were adequately prepared to accommodate students even amid exceptionally hot weather.

“We (OVRAA and OSG) agreed that, considering our classes are conducted in airconditioned facilities, teachers and students can safely and comfortably continue onsite classes as scheduled,” she said.

The Health Service has shared information on safeguarding against summer hazards and illnesses through the Thomasian Online Medical Support and Services (ThOMedSS), which can be accessed via the MyUSTe portal.

Recently, several schools and local government units have been calling off onsite classes as heat index forecasts in the country breached 40ºC. The Department of Education reported that nearly 4,000 schools across the country have suspended onsite classes due to extreme heat, affecting over 1.3 million learners nationwide and 395,210 in Metro Manila.

At the start of the month, the Division of City Schools – Manila released a memorandum stating mitigation measures against the high heat index, where it granted administrations of public elementary and secondary schools authority to suspend in-person classes amid extreme cases, such as high heat.

“Relative to the high heat index currently being experienced in the country, this Office encourages all schools to mitigate the heat and be creative in ensuring that learning continues in the midst of the situation,” the memorandum read.

It added that teachers and students may wear “more comfortable clothing aside from their regular uniforms” to help them beat the heat of the hot weather.

In UST, students transition to wearing Type B uniforms, typically consisting of collared polo shirts with varying styles of pants and shorts across academic units, after Ash Wednesday.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) forecasted that Metro Manila will continue to experience heat indices ranging from 41 to 42 degrees until April 5.

Pagasa classifies temperatures ranging from 42 to 51 degrees celsius under the “danger category,” as people experiencing the hot weather could experience heat cramps, exhaustion, and heat stroke.

AMV Asst. Dean Francisco Caliwan Jr. told the Varsitarian that as part of the implementation of the policy, building guards will confiscate single-use plastic bottles, straws, and bags from AMV students upon entering the building.

“The building guards are instructed to confiscate single-use plastic bottles, straws, and bags from AMV students when they enter the building. A box will be placed at the building entrance for this purpose,” Caliwan said.

The assistant dean said the involvement of the college’s top administrators in sustainability organizations played a role in inspiring the college’s decision.

Empleo and the college’s faculty secretary, Fermin Yabut, are both in-

volved with the Philippine Sustainability Reporting Committee, while Caliwan spearheaded the “no single-use plastic policy” of the National Association of CPAs in Education.

Caliwan said AMV plans to reach out to other colleges in the Albertus Magnus Building regarding the potential implementation of the policy throughout the entire building.

Empleo said the shift to more sustainable materials aligned with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) No. 12, which focuses on responsible consumption and production.

The college’s ban is also aligned with the University’s objective of fulfilling the UN SDGs.

UST ranked among the top three Philippine universities last year for its contribution to achieving the SDGs, according to the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings.

In addition to the College of Accountancy, UST Junior High School has also prohibited the use of plastic straws and utensils since 2019.

Styrofoam containers had also been banned at the Tan Yan Kee Student Center.

As a hazardous wastes generator, the University is subject to regulation by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Environmental Management Bureau, to which it regularly reports. WITH REPORTS

‘‘

The building guards are instructed to confiscate single-use plastic bottles, straws, and bags from AMV students when they enter the building.

Francisco Caliwan Jr.

ACCOUNTANCY ASSISTANT DEAN

FROM JOHN EZEKIEL J. HIRRO

Student Affairs chief: It’s time to clarify ‘misconstrued’ policy vs unrecognized orgs

By Logan Kal-El M. Zapanta

► Asst. Prof.

Jaezamie Ong, the officer in charge of the Office for Student Affairs, wants certain University policies clarified.

THE OFFICE for Student Affairs (OSA) said the University policy banning unrecognized organizations had been “misconstrued,” clarifying that only groups that want to associate with the University or use its name or logo were covered by the prohibition.

—PHOTO BY JEREMY R. EDERA

In an interview with the Varsitarian, OSA Officer in Charge Jae-

zamie Ong said the regulations were meant to ensure students’ safety and should not be used as a tool to conduct a “witch-hunt” against activists.

Under the Code of Conduct of the UST Student Handbook, students shall join “only organizations recognized by the University.”

Students are also prohibited, under a separate provision, from using the name “University of Santo Tomas,” its seal, and its official logo in any activity unless sanctioned by the Office of the Secretary General.

“I think it’s time to clarify that,” Ong said. “Ang point kasi don, halimbawa, sumali ka sa choir sa simbahan, bawal ba ‘yon? Hindi…

Alam mo kung ano ang mali? Kapag ‘yong pangalan ng org ay naglagay ng ‘UST’ at hindi [naman sila recognized].”

“Ang point [kung] kaya namin sinasabi sa mga estudyante na huwag sumali sa organizations na not

recognized by UST pero claiming to be UST, we want you to be careful because some would think na it’s under the supervision of OSA when it is not.”

According to the student handbook, penalties for students caught using the University logo and name without authorization could range from reprimand to suspension, depending on the gravity or frequency of the offense.

In the past, some student activists affiliated with progressive groups bearing UST’s name received show-cause letters from the Student Welfare and Development Commit-

tee (SWDC), which acts as the enforcement arm of the OSA in each academic unit.

For instance, former Grade 12 student Allen Ballesteros was summoned by the UST Senior High School (SHS) SWDC in September 2023 for allegedly violating the provisions of the code of conduct in his capacity as the chairperson of the progressive group Anakbayan-UST. In an interview with the Varsitarian, Ballesteros criticized the policy, saying it had been selectively enforced against student activists, with tougher penalties.

“Hindi siya justifiable. Napa-

karaming unrecognized organization na humahawak sa pangalan ng UST, bakit hindi sila binibigyan ng show-cause [notice]? Napakaraming merchandise na hindi naman recognized by UST pero binebenta without permission of the office,” he said.

“Napaka-arbitrary lang talaga niya…Nakakapagtaka na pinapagkabit ‘yong dalawang provision na ‘yon,” he added.

Ballesteros claimed he had witnessed first-hand how the SHS administration used these provisions OSA CHIEF PAGE 8

Memoirs of late journalist Nestor Mata, lone Magsaysay plane crash survivor, relaunched

By Jenna Mariel A. Gonzales

COMMEMORATING the 67th anniversary of the tragic plane crash that killed former president Ramon Magsaysay and 24 others, the UST Miguel de Benavides Library launched a new edition of the book, “One Came Back: The Magsaysay Tragedy” on March 18.

The memoir, co-authored

by Vicente Villafranca and the late Thomasian journalist Nestor Mata, the sole survivor

of the 1957 crash, offers Mata’s first-hand narrative of the late president’s final moments and his own experiences after the incident.

In his opening remarks, UST Vice Rector Fr. Isaias Tiongco, O.P. highlighted the significance of the memoir, describing it as “not just a mere recollection of events, but a testament to the resilience and NESTOR MATA PAGE 8

►

► The UST Miguel de Benavides Library, in collaboration with the family

of late Thomasian journalist Nestor Mata, launches the new edition of the book ‘One Came Back: The Magsaysay Tragedy’ on Monday, March 18. —PHOTO BY JEREMY R. EDERA

►

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THE VARSITARIAN • APRIL 10, 2024

WITNESS

COORDINATOR: JUSTIN BENEDICT T. LIM

Priests warned vs entitlement:

‘Don’t be blinded by special treatment’ A FORMER UST secretary general emphasized to priests the importance of serving humbly and not losing sight of their responsibilities due to special treatment as the University celebrated the Mass of the Lord’s Supper at the Plaza Mayor on Maundy Thursday, March 28.

feet of 12 individuals by priests, symbolizing the 12 apostles whose feet Jesus Christ washed during the Last Supper.

“Kapag tayo ay naghugas na paa ng ating kapwa, tayo’y bumababa. And that in itself is already a sign. That in itself is already a gesture of humility,” Miranda said.

Miranda said humility and service should be practiced consistently, even in Fr. Jesus Jay Miranda Jr., O.P., the prior the absence of cameras. of the Priory of St. Thomas, cautioned in “I think that’s the sad part, when we his homily that excessive courtesy from serve because the camera is on us,” he said. laypeople could divert priests from their “Mataas ang tingin natin sa ating sarili kaduty. pag tayo’y may nagawa ng mabuti.”

“From time to time, we need to conMaundy Thursday marks the beginsider that in overdoing this, we are, in a ning of the Holy Triduum, the highest way, turning a blind eye, for some of us are point of the Church’s liturgical year that being blinded. Why? Because we might commemorates the suffering, death and forget that we are here to serve, not to be resurrection of Jesus Christ for the salvaserved,” he said. tion of mankind.

Maundy Thursday is a reminder of huIn UST, the washing of the feet was led mility, often marked by the washing of the by Miranda. AMMIEL B. MAESTRADO

► UST celebrates the Mass of the Lord's Supper at the Plaza Mayor on Maundy Thursday, March 28. The Mass

was led by Fr. Jesus Jay Miranda Jr., O.P., the prior of the Priory of Saint Thomas Aquinas.

—PHOTO BY JOSH NIKKOLAI S. BRAVO

UST Rector: Rise up from being ‘marupok’ UST Rector Fr. Richard Ang, O.P. said being fragile or “marupok” happens in times of trials but stressed the importance of rising up and standing strong in his homily at the Santisimo Rosario Parish Church on Good Friday, March 29.

During the parish’s commemoration of the Lord’s passion, Ang said it is inevitable to feel helpless at times.

“May mga pagkakataong tatalikod tayo sa ating mga pangako at magiging marupok,” he said. “May mga oras na hindi tayo nagiging tapat sa ating sinumpaan at hindi natin napapanindigan na ating mga prinsipyo, hindi man natin ito sinasadya.”

“With sin we fall, but with contrition and conversion we rise.”

The Rector also underscored that while starting strong is good in fulfilling promises with God, “finishing strong is epic.” “[Jesus] is courageous and majestic like a king all throughout. He is ever in a dignified command of the situation and there is no unfinished business,” he said.

Referencing Jesus’ experience at Golgotha, Ang said Catholics should be compassionate, regardless of their physical and emotional suffering, like Simon of Cyrene who helped Jesus carry the cross.

“Kapag tayo’y may pinagdadaanan, nakapagbibigay pa rin ba tayo na pagmamalasakit sa mga taong nakapaligid sa atin?” Ang said. “Sana habang tayo’y nabubuhay, kahit tayo’y nakakaranas ng pagdurusa at paghihirap paminsan-minsan, sana iaalay natin ito sa ngalan ng pag-ibig, sa ating mga minamahal sa buhay.”

Siete Palabras

In the annual “Siete Palabras” or reflections on the Seven Last Words of Christ at Santo Domingo Church in Quezon City on Good Friday, Dominican preachers urged the faithful to confront life’s challenges with forgiveness, hope, and complete trust in God. Fr. Christian Dale Dakila of the Diocese of San Pablo, Laguna, cautioned Christians against blaming others to avoid confronting their problems. “[K]apag nasaktan tayo at kapag nahihirapan tayo, ang halos laging

► UST Rector Fr. Richard Ang, O.P.

leads the commemoration of the Lord's Passion at the Santisimo Rosario Parish Church on Good Friday, March 29.—PHOTO BY VALERE JANE R. CALLORENA

‘‘

May mga pagkakataong tatalikod tayo sa ating mga pangako at magiging marupok, [...]

With sin we fall, but with contrition and conversion we rise.

Fr. Richard Ang, O.P. UST RECTOR

unang ginagawa natin ay hanapin ang sisisihin,” he said.

“Pagdating kay Hesus, ang pinakaunang wika niya, pagpapatawad. Ang kanyang unang pagkilos, pagpapatawad. At ang kanyang unang panalangin ay pagpapatawad pa rin.”

Fr. Arden Xerces Dacuma, O.P., secretary of the Dominican Province of the Philippines, said Catholics should

demonstrate openness to contrition and conversion, even when facing death. “[M]alinaw at maliwanag na sinasabi sa atin ni Hesus na ‘yong paraiso ay bukas, hindi nawawala, at madaling matagpuan para sa mga taong handang humingi ng kapatawaran at handang magbalik-loob sa Diyos sa kahit anumang yugto ng kanyang buhay at kahit pa sa bingit ng kanyang kamatayan,” Dacuma said.

Former UST rector Fr. Rolando de la Rosa, O.P., urged the faithful to dedicate their full presence and availability to God. “Give God your precious presence.

Give Him your availability. Give Him one moment of love and He will love you for all eternity,” De la Rosa said.

Former UST vice rector Fr. Virgilio Ojoy, O.P., suggested that Catholics should hope for eternal life and not simply lament their sufferings.

“Hindi niya tayo hahayaang manatili sa kadiliman, sa pagdurusa o kalungkutan. Hindi niya tayo iiwanang nakalibing sa kamatayang walang hanggan. Aakayin niya tayo sa muling pagkabuhay,” Ojoy said.

Citing Jesus’ thirst in His crucifixion, Santo Domingo parish priest Fr. Simon Peter Ramos, O.P., called on the faithful to confront their problems directly instead of opting for convenient alternatives.

“Tayo, mahilig tayong tumakas lalo na sa pain. We take painkillers—video games, forbidden relationships and the like. Doon lang tayo sa masarap at sa kung saan ang ginhawa. Ramos said.

“Paano ka magiging malakas kung palagi kang tumatakas? It is only you who can kill the pain. You yourself is the painkiller.”

UST theology professor Leo-Martin Ocampo said that not all endings are negative, as problems also come to an end.

“Hindi lahat ng pagtatapos ay masakit o mapaiit. Dati ang dami natin problema, parang wala nang katapusan. Ngayon kahit papaano nakakaraos na at marami sa mga problema ang akala natin hindi na matatapos, natapos na.”

GOOD FRIDAY PAGE 8

►

Ask forgiveness without hurting oneself – UST parish priest

By Justin Benedict T. Lim

THE FAITHFUL must ask forgiveness this Holy Week in ways that do not entail physical harm, UST Parish Priest Fr. Paul Talavera, O.P. said during Palm Sunday Mass at the Santisimo Rosario Parish Church on Sunday, March 24.

While some Filipino devotees reenact the passion and death of Jesus Christ, like those who self-flagellate and nail themselves to the cross in Pampanga, going to confession is enough to attain forgiveness.

“Ang sakramentong ibinigay sa atin ng Panginoon upang mapatawad sa ating kasalanan ay iyong kumpisal,” he said in his homily.

“Hindi po natin kailangan magtupi at magpapako. Kailangan lang natin ng kababaan ng loob. Humingi ng tawad at ipagkaloob sa atin kung

tayo ay tunay na nagsisisi.”

The Church has long frowned upon these traditions that have become spectacles during Holy Week.

Kalookan Bishop Emeritus Deogracias Iniguez Jr. said in 2008 that when the Church asked the faithful to be one in the sufferings of Christ, it did not mean it in a literal sense.

“Hurting oneself, according to Church doctrines, is wrong,” Iniguez, the media affairs head of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) at the time, said in a statement. “And it can be considered a sin if you do it knowing it’s not right. But if you’re not aware that these are not right, then you have not sinned.”

Kalookan Bishop Pablo Virgilio PALM SUNDAY PAGE 8

► Santisimo Rosario parishioners attend the Palm Sunday Mass led by

UST Parish Priest Fr. Paul Talavera, O.P. on Sunday, March 24.—PHOTO BY JOSH NIKKOLAI S. BRAVO

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THE VARSITARIAN • APRIL 10, 2024

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CIRCLE

COORDINATOR: ANGELI RUTH R. ACOSTA

College of Science, CFAD join forces in painting contest, exhibit

“Expression of Faith Through Excellence in Science and Art” was the first exhibit that sprung from the collaboration between the two UST colleges. Its proceeds went to the beneficiaries of the College of Science’s “Project Agham,” which aims to provide financial support to students in need.

In his opening remarks during the launch of the exhibit, College of Science Dean Rey Donne Papa said the college’s partnership with CFAD was in line with the call of UST Rector Fr. Richard Ang, O.P. for academic units "to establish relations and collaboration.”

“This exhibit showcases how two colleges with seemingly very different interests–arts and design on one end, and the pure and applied sciences on the other end–can be merged,” Papa said.

“We believe that as scientists, we can advocate increased dialogue between faith and sciences, and it is through art that we can show this,” he added.

Some 35 artworks were chosen as finalists in the contest-exhibit, which were selected out of 68 submissions by UST students and alumni from various academic units.

CFAD Painting senior Juan Magbuhos won first prize in the student

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1. Juan Miro Magbuhos’s ‘Lord, Sana Gumaling na si Mama…Amen,’ which won gold in the painting contest and exhibition organized by the College of Science and College of Fine Arts and Design; 2. Mae Aguirre’s ‘St. Albert the Great’; 3. Yvette Kathryn Bala’s ‘Genesis I’; 4. Jerrick Prince Julian’s ‘Gift of the Weak’; 5. Eric Mendoza’s ‘Crosses in the Micro’; 6. John Augustine Abiad’s ‘Coexisting.’

PHOTOS BY JENNA MARIEL A. GONZALES

category with his 18x24-in. acrylic painting titled, “Lord, Sana Gumaling na si Mama…Amen.”

Magbuhos said the piece, which depicts a child drawing on a piece of paper while on his mother’s bedside, showcases the Filipino traits of being family-oriented and possessing strong faith. “[The] artwork [in the painting] be-

came [the child’s] form of prayer,” he told the Varsitarian. “Through this, he asks the Lord to guide the doctors and surgeons to a successful surgery to heal his ailing mother.”

Placing second in the student category was CFAD student Mae Aguirre’s “St. Albert the Great,” an 18x24-in. acrylic painting depicting the philoso-

pher and scientist surrounded by various plants and animals.

Another CFAD Painting student, Yvette Kathryn Bala, won in the contest with her 18x24-in. acrylic painting “Genesis I,” which placed third.

Nine entries were featured in the alumni category, with Painting alumnus Jerrick Julian’s “Gift of the Weak”

bagging first prize.

Julian said his oil painting was centered on the concept of growth, which tied together the themes of faith, science, and art.

“For science, I focused on the aspect of discovery, both on what is within us and what surrounds us,” he explained.

“For faith, I focused more on my personal beliefs and how they helped me through hard times. And lastly, I used the paintbrush as a reflection to show my zeal for the arts.”

Bringing the genetic blueprint to life was Industrial Design alumnus Eric Mendoza’s 18x24-in. acrylic painting titled “Crosses in the Micro,” which won second prize.

Earning third prize in the alumni category was “Coexisting” by Painting alumnus John Abiad, which features various science-related elements and hands reminiscent of Michelangelo’s “The Creation of Adam.”

“Despite having new discoveries, technologies, and innovations in today’s world, I wanted to emphasize the idea that we are ‘coexisting’ with God,” Abiad said.

UST Secretary General Fr. Louie Coronel, O.P., Prof. Emeritus Fortunato Sevilla III of the Department of Chemistry, and former CFAD Painting chair Danilo Santiago served as judges for the exhibit.

The “Expression of Faith Through Excellence in Science and Art” exhibit was part of the College Week celebrations of the College of Science. It ran until March 23. JENNA MARIEL A. GONZALES WITH REPORTS FROM ANGELI RUTH R. ACOSTA

PHOTOS BY JANA FRANCESCA D. YAO

THE THEMES of faith, science, and art converged in a painting contest and exhibition mounted by the College of Science and College of Fine Arts and Design (CFAD) on March 18 at the lobby of the UST Main Building.

Future at forefront of former ‘V’ artist’s ink exhibit

By Jan Alyanna G. Tamaray

SOCIOPOLITICAL and environmental issues affecting the present and threatening future generations were the focal points of a Thomasian artist’s solo exhibition at the Art Cube Gallery in Makati.

Painting alumnus and former Varsitarian artist Jose “Pinggot” Zulueta showcased a series of inkon-paper illustrations depicting his worry for the future in his exhibit “Obskvra.”

“I’m concerned about the future of my grandchild, the future generation, because I see a dark future ahead,” Zulueta said in Filipino.

“In a small way, I have to do my part. I need to make a story out of it because if I don’t, it’s just like I’m witnessing it before my eyes, but I did not do anything,” he added.

Being in the art scene for several decades now, Zulueta said he wanted his works to go

‘Bride of the Wind’

beyond just aesthetic allure and go deep into the pressing issues of reality.

“I have reached the point where my works are about social realism, about protest,” Zulueta said. “I don’t want my works to just be beautiful…I want to make a statement.”

A total of 10 illustrations were

‘Bleeding Faith’ (left) and ‘Reborn’ (right)

► Former ‘V’ artist Jose ‘Pinggot’ Zulueta pose in front of his artworks,

‘The Allegory of Rupture’ (left) and ‘The Earthkeeper’ (right).

featured in the exhibit, all rendered in black, white, and orange hues.

At the centerpiece was the 46×33-in. illustration titled “Hereditas (Legacy),” which depicts a young girl in a court dress with her face obscured by a large, orange mass.

Zulueta said it is inspired by renowned Spanish painter Diego Velasquez’s “Infanta Margarita,” a portrait of Margaret Theresa of Spain picking her dress up as if performing a curtsy.

Salvador Dali is another Spanish painter who influenced Zulueta in his works, specifically in the 16×24-in. “Reborn,” the Thomasian artist’s take on Dali’s “Rhinocerotic Figure of Phidias’s Illisos.”

Zulueta leaned into the environmental aspect of his exhibit in “The Earthkeeper,” a 24×16-in. piece that is his interpretation of the climate change issue hounding the world.

It depicts a cloaked figure standing against a backdrop of dark clouds, with a heart leaking plumes of orange smoke at the center of its chest.

A similarly cloaked figure can be seen in the 24×16-in. “Bleeding Faith,” where it stands in the middle of two portrayals of Jesus Christ, one on the cross and another wearing a crown of thorns.

Zulueta let his surrealistic skill OBSKVRA PAGE 10

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‘Hereditas (Legacy)’

L E N S

Semana Sa

Varsitarian photographers document traditions a as part of the observ

► A priest blesses the palm fronds of churchgoers at the Parish of the Holy Sacrifice in Quezon City on Palm

Sunday, March 24.—PHOTO BY JAN KRISTOPHER T. ESGUERRA

► Devotees stage the passion of Jesus in a play (also called senakulo) at Brgy. Wawa in Taguig on Holy

Wednesday, March 29.—PHOTO BY JEREMY R. EDERA

► Catholic devotees watch the reenactment of Christ’s crucifixion and death at Kapitangan, Paombong,

Bulacan on Good Friday, March 29.—PHOTO BY RAINIEL ANGELYN B. FIGUEROA

► Individuals use a piece of wood embedded with glass shards to inflict

wounds on their backs as an act of self-flagellation on Good Friday, March 29, in San Juan, Hagonoy, Bulacan.—PHOTO BY RAINIEL ANGELYN B. FIGUEROA

► Devotees of the Black Nazarene push each other to touch the enclosed carriage during the

► A kneeling man prays in front of the St. James the Apostle

Parish Church as a form of penitence in San Fernando, Pampanga, on Good Friday, March 29.—PHOTO BY KENNETH CEDRIC LANDAZABAL

► A devotee touches the legs of a penitent who is reen

the observance of Good Friday on March 29, in Kapita B. FIGUEROA

P E A K

Santa 2024

and activities held in various parts of the country vance of Holy Week.

► Members of the apostolate group Prayer Warriors carry the images of Jesus and Mary as they enter the

Immaculate Conception Parish Church in Dasmariñas, Cavite, on Easter Sunday, March 31.—PHOTO BY JEREMY R. EDERA

► An onlooker watches as the image of the dead Christ, or the ‘Santo Entierro,’ passes by during the Good

Friday procession at the Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Our Lady of the Abandoned in Marikina City on Friday, March 29.—PHOTO BY JAN KRISTOPHER T. ESGUERRA

e early morning procession on Good Friday, March 29.—PHOTO BY JAN KRISTOPHER T. ESGUERRA

nacting the crucifixion and death of Christ as part of angan, Paombong, Bulacan.—PHOTO BY RAINIEL ANGELYN

► A mammoth crowd fills the Antipolo Cathedral in Rizal during the annual ‘Alay Lakad’ on Maundy Thurs-

day, March 28.—PHOTO BY ALBERT EARL A. GOMEZ

► Mt. Samat’s Dambana ng Kagitingan, a historical shrine dedi-

cated to Filipino and American soldiers who fought against the Japanese during World War II, is seen as the sun sets over Manila Bay on Easter Sunday, March 31.—PHOTO BY PATRICE JERICA A. BELTRAN

► Pilgrims participate in the annual ‘Alay Lakad,’ in which they pray at the

stations of the cross while walking toward the Antipolo Cathedral in Rizal, on Maundy Thursday, March 28.—PHOTO BY ALBERT EARL A. GOMEZ

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THE VARSITARIAN • APRIL 10, 2024

UST GENSAN Chapel of UST GenSan Main Building blessed

By Nyah Genelle C. De Leon

► UST Facilities

Management Office Director Fr. Dexter Austria, O.P. leads the blessing of the UST General Santos Main Building Chapel on Tuesday, April 9.

GENERAL SANTOS CITY – University officials blessed the chapel of the UST General Santos (GenSan) Main Building on April 9, in preparation for the inauguration of the Mindanao campus and its first edifice.

The first-ever mass in the UST GenSan Main Building, led by UST Secretary General Fr. Louie Coronel, O.P. and Facilities Management Office Director Fr. Dexter Austria, O.P., was attended by University officials and employees of the Mindanao campus.

According to Austria, the chapel was the first area to be blessed on the premises.

The base of the altar table came from the trunk from a fallen tree in UST Manila, while the tabletop was repurposed from the desk used by Fr. Roberto Pinto, O.P. when he was director of the Facilities Management Office.

“This blessing of the altar and

—PHOTO BY RAINIEL ANGELYN B. FIGUEROA

► FROM PAGE 4

Fr. Jerone Geronimo, O.P., an instructor from the Ecclesiastical Faculties, concluded the Siete Palabras by saying that no one, not even Jesus Christ, is exempt from suffering.

“Madadapa tayo at maipapako tayo,” he said. “At tulad ni Kristo, mababayubay tayo. Walang exempted sa atin.”

The newly ordained priest emphasized the importance of trusting God amid suffering.

“Ang pagpapaubaya sa Ama ay ‘di lamang dasal, kung hindi pang-araw-araw na aksyon at desisyon,” he said. SHEILA MAY S. BALAGAN AND AMMIEL B. MAESTRADO WITH REPORTS FROM JENNA MARIEL A. GONZALES AND RALENT M. PENILLA

against activists.

However, Ong clarified that the rule against joining unrecognized organizations does not discriminate against activist groups, but applies to all organizations that use the school’s seal and branding without approval.

“We do not need to single out na activist group lang–that is true to all,” she said. “Ang difference lang nito kasi, nagiging mas maingay lang kapag activist group. Doon lang mas napapansin. Pero kapag hindi, [tapos] malaman ng University na mayroon, ganon pa din ‘yon.”

WITH REPORTS FROM FERNAN-

HANNAH JOYCE V. ANDAYA, AND JENNA MARIEL A. GONZALES

this first activity, we are gathered as a church… we are chartering a new beginning in UST GenSan,” he said in his homily. “The altar in this chapel connects GenSan with Manila.”

“When we were building this, I made sure that this chapel would be a very special one because it should be integrated with this building (main building). In Manila, we do not have a

chapel in the main building,” he added.

The UST GenSan Main Building, the first edifice in the 82.2-hectare Mindanao campus, is set to be inaugurated on April 11.

By Logan Kal-El M. Zapanta

Good Friday

► FROM PAGE 3

DO PIERRE MARCEL B. DELA CRUZ,

UST marks Eid al-Fitr with outreach program for Muslims in GenSan GENERAL SANTOS CITY – The University led a community development project at a Muslim community on Eid al-Fitr as part of its activities leading up to the inauguration of the UST General Santos (GenSan) campus.

The outreach project was a collaboration between the UST Office for Alumni Relations and Tomasinong Soccsksargen (South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Santos), the recognized UST alumni chapter in the region.

Some 150 residents from Barangay Batomelong in GenSan attended the event on April 10, where they each received grocery packages and vitamins.

UST Secretary General Fr. Louie Coronel, O.P. said the outreach program was conducted to introduce the Mindanao campus to nearby communities as it approaches its opening next academic year. “‘Yung UST na nakita ninyo na may building, hindi lang po building–may mukha, may kulay, may anyo,” Coronel said in his opening remarks.

“Hindi lang po kami kapitbahay; kami po ay inyong kaagapay rin po dahil pinapanalangin namin na ang aming pag-aaral, ‘yung aming po ay mga researches, doon po ay maging partner namin kayo,” he added.

Coronel also underscored the importance of the University’s connection with the Muslim community in GenSan.

OSA chief

“Higit sa lahat, hindi lang po kapitbahay, hindi lang po kaagapay, tayo pong lahat ay mga Pilipino. Iba-iba man po ang ating papanampalataya, iba-iba man po ang ating kultura, mga Pilipino naman po tayo at tayong lahat ay magkakapatid,” he said.

Antonio Villanueva Jr., president of the UST Alumni-Soccsksargen Chapter, said the outreach project was just the start of the group’s fulfillment of a bigger role as UST GenSan opens.

“Malaki ang magiging role ng UST alumni in terms of tulong sa promotion, marketing, then may mga collaboration projects kami later on na gagawin,” Villanueva said. “Gusto rin naming mag-sponsor ng scholar kung kakakayanin namin, may mga fundraising activities din kaming gagawin.” “‘Yung isang purpose namin is

Palm Sunday

► The UST Office of Alumni Relations, in collaboration with UST alumni from

the region, distributes groceries and vitamins in a Muslim community in Barangay Batomelong in General Santos City on Eid al-Fitr, April 10.—PHOTOS

BY LOGAN KAL-EL M. ZAPANTA

charity borne out of gratitude. Ibig sabihin, ‘yung involvement po namin dito is voluntary and in gratitude na nakapagtapos kami sa UST,” he added.

GenSan houses the fifth largest Muslim population among cities in Mindanao, despite 70 percent of its population being Roman Catholics.

► FROM PAGE 4

David, the president of CBCP, told Radyo Veritas in 2022 that “doing charity, especially for the poor,” is the most important way to seek forgiveness.

Palm Sunday – also called Passion Sunday – observes Christ’s arrival in Jerusalem, accompanied by a jubilant crowd following Him throughout his journey. They laid garments on the ground and threw leafy branches out of palm trees.

He was crucified days later.

Talavera said Christ’s final moments, which the faithful commemorate during Holy Week, demonstrated the level of relation-

ship that people today have with the Lord.

“May mga bagay talaga na ‘di mo matantiya,” the UST parish priest said. “Kapag may mga nangyayaring maganda sa buhay natin, ‘pag may biyayang pumapasok sa buhay natin, ‘pag natutupad iyong ating hinihingi sa Diyos, ‘Praise the Lord! Praise God! Thank the Lord!’

“Pero kapag tayo’y nabigyan ng matinding hamon, kapag bumagsak tayo sa isa, kapag hiniwalayan tayo ng diyowa natin, ‘Hay naku, hindi na ako naniniwala sa Diyos.

Wala na ‘yang Diyos. Nagdarasal

ako pero wala namang kwenta.

Para tayong mga taong sumisigaw ng “Ipako sa krus! Ipako sa krus!”’”

When people go through passion and suffering, they become closer to God, Talavera stressed. “[S]a panahon ng pagpapakasakit ng kahirapan at pagsubok ng sakit na ating nararamdaman, doon mas lumalalim ang pananampalataya sa Diyos,” he said.

“Doon natin mas naiintindihan at nagiging isa ‘yong ating paghihirap at pagpapakasakit doon sa hirap at pagpapakasakit ng ating Panginoon.” WITH REPORTS FROM SHEILA MAY S. BALAGAN

Nestor Mata ► FROM PAGE 3

courage that defines Filipinos.”

“This event is not just a launch, but a celebration of an enduring spirit of inquiry, the pursuit of knowledge, and the profound connections literature can forge among us,” Tiongco said.

Descendants of Mata and Magsaysay attended the relaunch, during which the UST Library also opened an exhibit that featured books and photographs chronicling the plane crash and its aftermath.

Mila Magsaysay-Valenzuela, daughter of the late president, said the memoir is a testament to Mata’s journalistic sense of duty and serves as a reminder for Filipinos to be patriotic.

“The biggest relevance of this launching is that integrity, character, honesty, and duty, and love for country will never be irrelevant,” she said. “This should be the only thing that should remain relevant at all times as Filipinos.”

Jocelyn Mata, daughter of Nestor, said her father believed he survived the tragic plane crash because he was meant to chronicle and retell the story of the accident.

“My father believed that God saved him for many reasons, most of which was to write a first-hand account of a tragic plane crash,” she said. “Although he was suffering from intense pain, he managed to dictate something to the nurse–the beginning of the beautiful making of the book.”

Engine breakdown was ruled as the cause of the crash that happened on March 17, 1957 at Mount Manunggal in Cebu.

Apart from Magsaysay, whose presidency was cut short because of the accident, 24 other people were killed in the crash, including key government and military officials, members of the presidential press, and the pilots.

Mata, a UST alumnus, became a lecturer at the Faculty of Arts and Letters, and wrote newspaper columns until his death in 2018.

Last year, Mata’s family donated the late Thomasian journalist’s collection of books to the UST Library, including a signed copy of “One Came Back: The Magsaysay Tragedy.”

THE VARSITARIAN • APRIL 10, 2024

9

OPINION EDITORIAL

Oft-weaponized, anti-activist Student Handbook needs revision The Office for Student Affairs underwent a much-needed leadership shift after it embarrassed the University in the national spotlight with its heavy-handed approach to the TomasinoWeb issue.

The incident drew congressional attention, leading to broader concerns about student repression. In March, lawmakers from the Makabayan bloc filed a resolution urging the House of Representatives to investigate “violations of students’ rights” at the University.

The resolution cited the OSA’s censorship of TomasinoWeb and several instances where the Student Welfare and Development Committee (SWDC) issued show-cause notices to students involved in organizations unrecognized by the University.

One notable case involved Grade 12 student Allen Ballesteros, chairperson of the progressive group Anakbayan, who was summoned in September 2023 for joining an unrecognized organization and using the University seal without authorization.

Amid the TomasinoWeb controversy, the OSA issued a show-cause notice in February to Raven Racelis, chairperson of Panday Sining UST and a philosophy student, for similar violations of the UST Student Handbook.

“The UST administration has also weaponized the issuance of show-cause orders to students in progressive organizations,” the resolution stated.

These incidents are the latest in a series of actions against student activists at UST for their involvement in unrecognized organizations. The Student Handbook prescribes penalties for unauthorized use of the University logo and name, ranging from reprimand to suspension, depending on the severity or frequency of the offense.

One of the “offenses” listed in the Student Handbook, last updated in 2018, is “membership in illegal organizations, in sororities/fraternities that are prohibited by the University or not officially recognized by the University.”

The UST Student Handbook needs updating to support students in exercising their democratic rights. Joining progressive organizations is not contrary to Catholic values. Notably,

there are activist saints, such as Saint Óscar Romero, who is celebrated in Latin America for his commitment to social justice and combating poverty.

Romero was a vocal critic of the violent activities of government forces, right-wing groups, and leftist guerrillas during El Salvador’s civil conflict. He refused to support the right-wing military-civilian junta that replaced the deposed dictator, advocated for human rights, and was nominated for the 1979 Nobel Prize for Peace.

The Student Handbook states that “students shall join or form only student organizations whose objectives uphold the vision and mission of the University.” However, it appears that this vision and mission are being used to silence students and deprive them of their rights. This needs to change.

There is hope for a more inclusive and dialogical approach within the OSA. Jaezamie Ong, the newly appointed Officer in Charge, has expressed a willingness to engage with student leaders and promote a collaborative environment.

Moving forward, it is crucial for UST to review and revise the Student Handbook in consultation with a diverse range of stakeholders, including local and university-wide student leaders, organizations, and their advisers to create a more inclusive and respectful campus environment. Such revisions should aim to uphold both the University’s mission and the democratic rights of its students.

The Catholic tradition cherished by UST includes a rich legacy of social justice advocacy and respect for human dignity. Saints and figures celebrated within this tradition have stood against oppression and championed the rights of the marginalized. UST must reaffirm its commitment to nurturing critical thinking and civic engagement among its students within this framework.

Recent controversies have highlighted areas where UST can enhance its commitment to student welfare and academic freedom.

By ensuring transparency, dialogue, and respect for rights, UST can break free from past controversies and promote a vibrant campus life where students are treated as adults who are capable of deciding for themselves and doing the right thing.

FOUNDED JANUARY 16, 1928 John Ezekiel J. Hirro Editor in Chief John Ezekiel Hirro Editor inManaging Chief Eduelle Jan T.J.Macababbad Editor Eduelle Jan T.M. Macababbad Managing Editor Logan Kal-El Zapanta Associate Editor Logan Kal-El M. Zapanta Associate Editor Nyah Genelle C. De Leon Acting News Editor Nyah Genelle C. De Leon NewsEditor Editor John Peter L. Cajayon Sports John Peter L. Cajayon Sports Acting Editor Special Reports Editor Chalssea Kate C. Echegoyen Chalssea Kate C. Echegoyen Special Reports Editor Justin Benedict T. Lim Witness Coordinator Justin Benedict T. Lim Witness Coordinator Faith Nicole S. Gelacio Acting Features Editor Faith Nicole S. Gelacio Features Matthew G. Gabriel Patnugot sa Editor Filipino Matthew G. Gabriel Patnugot sa Filipino Liam Sebastian C. Sanchez Science & Technology Editor Liam Sebastian C. Sanchez & Technology Angeli Ruth R. Acosta CircleScience & Literary CoordinatorEditor Angeli Ruth R. Acosta Circle & Literary Allan Christopher M. Sayat Art Editor Coordinator Allan Christopher M. Sayat Art Editor Michelle Ann C. Kalaw Assistant Art Editor Jan Kristopher T. Esguerra Layout Editor Josh Nikkolai S. Bravo Photo Editor

News Hannah Joyce V. Andaya, Mabel Anne B. Cardinez, Fernando News Hannah Pierre Marcel Joyce V. B. Andaya, Dela Cruz, Mabel Mikhail Anne S. Orozco, B. Cardinez, Ernest Fernando MartinPierre G. Tuazon Marcel B. Dela Cruz, Mikhail S. Orozco, Sports Ernest Emmanuel Martin John G. Tuazon B. Abris, Bjorn Del B. Deade, Brenn Sports Allen Emmanuel L. Flores, Jose JohnGabriel B. Abris, V.Bjorn Ignacio, DelErnest B. Deade, Martin G. Tuazon Special Brenn Reports AllenEduardo L. Flores,G.Jose Fajermo, Gabriel Jr.,V.Ralent Ignacio, M. Penilla Features Jan Lester JanicaE. Kate Quinto, J. Buan, Ernest Judd Martin Ericka G.Marie Tuazon F. Crescini, Karis M. Tsang Literary Special Jenna Reports Mariel Eduardo A. Gonzales G. Fajermo, Jr., Ralent M. Penilla Witness Features Sheila Janica May Kate S. Balagan, J. Buan, Ammiel Judd Ericka B. Maestrado Marie F. Crescini, Karis M. Tsang Filipino Literary Diana Jenna May Mariel B. Cabalo A. Gonzales Science Witness and Technology Sheila MayJenna S. Balagan, Mariel Ammiel A. Gonzales, B. Maestrado Sofiah Shelimae J. Aldovino Circle Filipino Jan Alyanna MichelleG.A.Tamaray, Agustin,Karis DianaM. May Tsang B. Cabalo, Julius I. Pontillas Science and Technology Jenna Mariel A. Gonzales, Sofiah Shelimae J. Aldovino Circle Niña Angelica M. Rodriguez, Jan Alyanna G. Tamaray, Karis M. Tsang

Art Louelle Marie P. Bumalay, Aidan Raphael F. Caluyo, Zymon M. Gailo, Art Louelle Michelle Ann Marie C. Kalaw, P. Bumalay, AlyzzaAidan Daniella Raphael B. Lipura, F. Caluyo, Jinmarson Zymon Chester M. Gailo, V. Pua Alyzza Daniella B. Lipura, Jinmarson Chester V. Pua Photography Patrice Jerica A. Beltran, Valere Jane R. Callorena, Jeremy R. Edera, Photography Rainiel Angelyn Patrice B. Figueroa, Jerica A.Albert Beltran, Earl Valere A. Gomez, Jane R. Kenneth Callorena, Cedric Jeremy Landazabal, R. Edera, Rainiel Jana Francesca Angelyn D. B. Yao Figueroa, Albert Earl A. Gomez, Kenneth Cedric Landazabal, Jana Francesca D. Yao Editorial Assistant Alexander B. Cardenas Editorial Assistant Alexander B. Cardenas Felipe F. Salvosa II, Christian V. Esguerra Assistant Publications Advisers Felipe F. Salvosa II, Christian V. Esguerra Assistant Publications Advisers

Joselito B. Zulueta Publications Adviser Joselito B. Zulueta Publications Adviser

10

THE VARSITARIAN • APRIL 10, 2024

COMICS

ART EDITOR: ALLAN CHRISTOPHER M. SAYAT

BUMANGON KA, MAE! MICHELLE ANN C. KALAW

SI PACO AT SI TILYO AIDAN RAPHAEL F. CALUYO

VISIT JINMARSON CHESTER V. PUA

Dialogue

Obskvra

► FROM PAGE 1

and suggestions regarding the policies and guidelines under review,” the memorandum read.

“This dialogue presents a valuable opportunity for you to share your insights and contribute to shaping policies that directly impact student life and engagement on campus,” it continued.

Following cluster-level talks, organization representatives will meet with the technical working group that Ong leads.

Four academic unit heads complete the committee: Assoc.

Prof. Gezzez Granado (College of Tourism and Hospitality Management dean), Jacqueline Lopez-Kaw (Graduate School of Law dean), Prof. Melanie Turingan (Faculty of Arts and Letters dean), and Assoc Prof. Al Faithrich Naverrete (College of Commerce and Business Administration acting dean).

“During these meetings, you can articulate and expand upon the collective concerns and suggestions identified within your clusters,” the OSA said.

College-based organizations

Withdraw

will be the first to talk with the OSA on April 15, to be followed by recognized University-wide organizations, including Comelec.

They will be represented by the board of directors of the Student Organization Coordinating Committee.

Discussions with central student council officers and local student council presidents will cap the series of dialogues.

Ong said the “collaborative exchange of ideas will be instrumental in informing TWG’s recommendations and decisions moving forward.”

“We encourage you to approach these discussions with an open mind and a spirit of constructive engagement, as together, we work towards enhancing the student experience at our university,” she added.

UST announced Ong’s appointment as OSA officer in charge and lead of the technical working group committee on March 14, almost a month after the censorship controversy involving the student affairs office and student media organization TomasinoWeb.

► FROM PAGE 5

shine through in “Bride of the Wind,” a pair of hands and antler horns enveloped by overgrown vegetation.

“Immortalis” and “The Allegory of Rupture” both depict disembodied figures, with the former obstructed by a looming orange figure and the latter lying on an open plane, below a blanket of dark clouds.

Despite being skilled in mixed media, Zulueta chose to render the pieces through ink on paper because the me-

Tiger Jins

dium, he said, was “very special” to him.

Zulueta was trained to draw editorial cartoons during his time in the campus press.

His “Obskvra” exhibit ran from March 9 to 30.

► Jose ‘Pinggot’ Zulueta’s 24x16-in.

piece ‘Immortalis.’—PHOTO BY JANA FRANCESCA D. YAO

► FROM PAGE 12

categories, respectively.

Tiger Jins Justin Macario and Stella Yape settled for silver medals in the individual male and female over-17 freestyle poomsae categories.

Macario teamed up with Chelsea Tacay to finish with another silver medal in the mixed pair over-17 category.

In the team under-30 recognized poomsae, UST’s trio of Venerable, Eljay Vista and Bob Fabella, and Lady Jins Tacay, Labayne and Heza Serapio bagged silver.

Lady Jin Abigail Valdez snagged a silver medal in the senior women un-

der-49kg division, while UAAP Season 86 Rookie of the Year Legolas Peñaredondo copped bronze in the senior men under-63 kg category.

Alcairo and Vista bagged bronze medals in the individual male under-30 recognized poomsae.

Tiger Jin Jeus Yape also won bronze in the individual male over-17 freestyle poomsae competition.

The Subaste-Baquial (under-30 recognized) and Rodriguez-Jade Carno (over-17 freestyle) mixed pairs racked up two more bronze medals to complete the medal haul for UST.

“Seeing all UST [taekwondo] teams perform well and give their best plus winning a medal makes me proud because all of our hard work paid off in our 1st national competition for this year,” UST assistant coach Rodolfo Reyes, Jr. told the Varsitarian. “This will be our standard and will help us set another goal for the team to know what we will need to work on and focus more on their strengths and weaknesses.”

The Tiger Jins will have two upcoming national competitions in June: Women’s Martial Arts Festival and the National Poomsae Championships.

► FROM PAGE 1

the Thomasian community with the service that they deserve,” they said.

Candidate for auditor Stephan Aseron, a medical technology freshman, submitted his withdrawal to the Central Commission on Elections (Comelec) two days after the mass withdrawal of the six other candidates.

Aseron said he was only informed the night before about the

planned withdrawal of the other candidates running for the CSC. “Their decision to withdraw from the UST Central Student Council Elections is a consequence of this repressive system where student leaders are rendered powerless against the administration—where they are relegated to be event organizers instead of representatives

to fight for the students,” Aseron said in a statement.

“The visions and goals that my fellow candidates and I had would inevitably face difficulties implementing under the current system, and they took a principled stand against such, which I deeply respect and understand,” he added.

“I understand that the council is only a cog in the system of

student representation within the university,” he said. “However, there is no denying that a vacant UST Central Student Council is still a problem, especially in appealing decisions and defending the rights of the students.”

He called for the inclusion of students in discussions that directly affect them.

“The vacancy only underscores

the fact that there must be direct representatives from the students in the decision-making bodies of the university, especially for tuition and other fee increases, academic policies, policies for student organizations and local student councils, and all studentrelated policies,” Aseron said.

The University-wide election period is set for April 22 to 27.

Sports

UST’s Ledama bags 2nd MVP award in men’s tennis

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@VSportsUST

The Varsitarian APRIL 10, 2024

By Jose Gabriel V. Ignacio

► The UST Male Tennisters clinch back-to-back championships after prevailing over the Ateneo Blue Eagles, 3-1, in Game 3 of the UAAP Season 86

men's tennis finals at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Court on Sunday, April 7. —PHOTO BY JEREMY R. EDERA

UST MALE TENNISTERS REPEAT AS UAAP CHAMPIONS

By Jose Gabriel V. Ignacio

THE UST Male Tennisters retained their UAAP title after cruising to a 3-1 victory against the Ateneo Blue Eagles in Game 3 of the Season 86 men’s tennis finals at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum on Sunday, April 7.

UST extended its record as the winningest team in UAAP history with 16 championships.

In the first singles match, Ateneo’s Noy Seno overwhelmed Christopher Sonsona, 6-1, 6-0.

Season 86 MVP Nilo Ledama made his doubles debut, teaming up with eventual Finals MVP Steven Sonsona to defeat Blue Eagles Nio Tria and Axl Gonzaga with a commanding 6-2, 6-1 victory.

Male Tennister Ericjay Tangub then clinched a 6-1, 6-4 win against Austin de los Santos to move UST closer to the championship.

UST’s tandem of Richard Bau-

► The UST Male Tennisters pose with their gold medals after winning the

Season 87 championship on April 7.—PHOTO BY JEREMY R. EDERA

tista and Nash Agustines completed UST’s title-retention bid after a 6-4, 6-2 drubbing of Blue Eagles JJ Llavore and Stef Gurria.

“Sobrang worth it ng pagod namin kasi everyday practice, kahit noong Holy Week hindi kami umuwi sa probinsya,” UST head coach Al-

exander Diego told the Varsitarian.

“Deserve ng mga players ng championship kasi sobrang nahirapan din talaga sila makuha ito.”

UST’s core lineup will stay for Season 87, with only reserve tennister Mark Alfred Directo graduating this year.

► Ledama —PHOTO BY JANA FRANCESCA D. YAO

UST sophomore Nilo Ledama has had a remarkable start to his UAAP career, winning championships in both his seasons so far and earning the MVP award in both years.

This season was particularly special for Ledama, as he became the first player to win the regular-season MVP award in the UAAP men’s tennis tournament. In the past, the MVP award was typically given to the finals MVP, but this year, the two awards were separated.

Ledama, who was discovered

by UST scouts at a commercial tennis tournament in Aurora in 2021, expressed his awe at being the first recipient of the regular-season MVP award.

“Shocked ako and also blessed kasi first time ito nangyari,” he told the Varsitarian. “Hopefully next year, makuha ko ulit.”

Ledama, who was the Season 85 Rookie of the Year, assumed greater leadership responsibilities this season. He led the Male Tennisters in the elimination round, finishing with an impressive 11-1 win-loss record and a 91.7 percent winning percentage.

But it was not all smooth sailing for Ledama, who said he had to rely on his teammates for support after experiencing a loss in Game 1 of the finals.

“Hindi sa lahat ng panahon, mananalo ako, pero noong natalo ako, I had goosebumps kasi may teammates pa rin ako na kayang manalo pa rin para sa amin.”

In Game 3, UST made a swerve and had Ledama play in the doubles category.

He teamed up with eventual Finals MVP Steven Sonsona to defeat Blue Eagles Nio Tria and Axl Gonzaga with a commanding 6-2, 6-1 victory.

UST head coach Alexander Diego also commended Ledama’s growth from a player from Pagadian to a star in the UAAP. “Nilo came from the provinces, hindi siya nag-undergo ng proper tennis training unlike most of the players here in the NCR,” he told the Varsitarian. “Apart from his playing prowess, Nilo also exhibited focus on his academics. Complete package talaga siya noong kinuha ko.”

Ledama will lead the Male Tennisters as captain in their pursuit of a third consecutive title in Season 87.

UST Tiger Jins bag 19 medals in nat’l taekwondo tourney

By Bjorn Del B. Deade

THE UST Tiger Jins took home seven gold, six silver and six bronze medals in the poomsae and kyorugi events of the 2024 National CPJ Taekwondo Championships held at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay from March 23 to 24.

Southeast Asian (SEA) Games medalists Maria Labayne and Darius Venerable struck gold in the individual female under-30 recognized poomsae and individual male over-17 freestyle poomsae, respectively.

UST’s duo of team captain Vincent

Rodriguez and Aidaine Laxa topped the mixed pair under-30 recognized poomsae event.

In the team under-30 recognized poomsae, Tiger Jins King Alcairo, Dane Subaste and Paul Rodriguez ruled the men’s division. In women’s play, Laxa, alongside Stella Yape and Aliyah Baquial, clinched the gold.

In the kyorugi event, Tiger Jins John Callejo and Rama Liporada emerged as champions in the junior men’s under-59 kg and senior men’s under-63 kg weight TIGER JINS PAGE 10

►

► The UST Tiger Jins clinch 19 medals in the poomsae and kyorugi events of the 2024 National CPJ

Taekwondo Championships held at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay from March 23 to 24.—PHOTO GRABBED FROM UST HEAD COACH RANI ORTEGA'S FACEBOOK