MAG ISSUE NO. 1 | VOLUME XVIII | AUG-SEP 2021
About the Cover To be mesmerized by the spectrum of colors, set against the unyielding backdrop of nothingness, is easy. But to fully appreciate this spectacle, one must confine himself to the realization that without darkness, there can be no light. It is a somber experience— the awakening one becomes part of, as he or she looks at things through multicolored glasses, changing his or her perspective about certain matters and ideologies, along the way. After all, everything is a matter of spectral cognizance. There is no single shade of any color that can encompass the experiences we had in this fleeting, meandering and ever changing sojourn we call life. Cover and Photo by Nicole Beatriz Rosales Text by Clark Alduz Viray Models: Anne Lorraine Bautista & Joviallyn Belegal
Imagine being asked to choose between two crossroads. One promises perfection—with all the things that you want and the persons you would love to spend your fleeting life with—and the other path fills you with dread, as you seemingly stare at an abyss when you try to take a step towards it. Your mind is flashing with a million thoughts, all at once. You feel trapped in your position, wondering which choice to make. Would you choose the one that offers familiarity and stability, or would you take a leap of faith and be spontaneous, for once? Seconds feel like an eternity, you feel submerged, drowning and claustrophobic. But at the same time, you feel free. And for now, that is what matters. You savor that moment, as you contemplate your decision, because it is one of those rare occasions that you are holding the reins of your life. And it feels liberating, to be one with the Cosmos and free yourself, even for one fleeting moment. So, with a smile plastered on your face, and a glow only you can see, you take your step, towards wherever your heart longs to be. CLARK ALDUZ VIRAY Editor in Chief
OPINION 6 NEWS 27 FEATURES 47 DiUningBLlaTCicsoaeOpnnEs,SuNBpraGeolat’EGsnxiaSEmoaasr;nrs DEVCOM 97 ThLeiveBsitotferSsuwgeaert Babies
CONTENTS LITERARY 123 PJ’S PAGE 137 ATsommYoeousrtrrneosrwday ARTISTS’ PAGE 149 SPORTS 161 Whheorresedsogdo?ark
No Approved Therapeutic Claims O Hatnugngaayngnasamaanl,akyuang
OPINION 06 Counterproductive Changes 07 No Approved Therapeutic Claims 20 Letter to the Editor 23 Madvo News 25 Madvoscope
COUNTERPRODUCTIVE CHANGES For whose sake are these changes? fees and miscellaneous fees are shouldered by their The sudden shift of most universities to online benefactors. learning brought with it another set of challenges for the student body, as they have to face unfavorable learning In the event that they qualify for an internal scholarship environments, unsteady internet connections and the due to their outstanding academic performance, the financial problems associated with the said changes. aforementioned amendment will mean that they will not With that being said, it is a mystery for ADVO why receive the amount of the “negative” balance indicated in the university implements actions that seem to put their account ledger for the current semester. unnecessary burdens on the students during these trying times. In what way does this change benefit the students? We are pertaining to the amendments on the It should be noted that as mentioned above, a large student handbook, specifically, the rules relating to the percentile of Ubians are facing financial problems as a scholarships of the students. While the changes regarding result of the global pandemic, and now, more than ever, the concurrence and application of external and internal they need the refund that they rightfully deserved and scholarships are acceptable, the last part of the said worked hard for. amendment is not in any way reasonable. While ADVO lauds the efforts of the university during To quote the said section, “In no instance shall a claim the pandemic, such as the tuition fees cutbacks, and for a cash refund be allowed except when payment has improvement of the LMS system, we adhere to our belief been received partially from the student and only up to that when it comes to the said amendments, it is not the the amount of actual payment received from the student.” interest of the students that are prioritized. Most scholars only pay a minimal amount, one hundred And we believe that it is high time for the administration pesos in most cases, each semester as their tuition to rethink the changes they implemented—for they, it seems, are not for the better. 6 | ADVO MAG OPINION
NO APPROVED THERAPEUTIC CLAIMS As the 2022 national elections approaches, the air is a Fourth Year Accountancy Student, I cannot help but feel becoming more ripe with the scent of misinformation and vile insulted after seeing the said clip, as I believe that an HR propagandas. practitioner, who cannot even admit his flaws, is in no way qualified to talk about something that requires the expertise of I had to roll my eyes and release an exasperated sigh an Accountancy course graduate at least. as I read a thread about an HR practitioner who became a laughing stock among members of the accounting profession Another reason I loathed the video is because it further community after his Tiktok content about the audit opinion stirred the already chaotic political arena in the country. Truth given by the Commission on Audit (COA) to the Office of the be told, the supporters of the two most prominent Presidential Vice President (OVP) went viral, in the wrong way. candidates so far, VP Robredo and BongBong Marcos, are like wild dogs with their fangs bared and all ready to fight. For context, the said content creator, @coachjarret, stated Creating a video like the one we are talking about, is like on one of his videos, that the OVP’s audit rating, unqualified dangling a succulent meat between the two warring factions. opinion, meant that the auditors who scrutinized the financial And judging by the comments below the clip, as it was being statements provided by them have obtained all necessary shared on Facebook and other social media platforms, the audit evidence that they need to support their opinion. In video yielded nothing but unrest. practice, however, “unqualified opinion” is the highest audit opinion that can be given to any entity, as it means that their Let’s be honest, most of us are stressed nowadays and financial statements are free from material misstatements. oftentimes, we find ourselves mindlessly scrolling through the short video clips at Tiktok, hoping to find a respite and rest our Before we go any further, here is a disclaimer: this column minds. But instead of having a few stolen moments of bliss, is not made in support of any candidate. As I have told my we find ourselves confronted with politics centered contents, friends and close acquaintances, I am still undecided on who most of which contain mudslinging and fake information about I will be voting for in the upcoming national elections. Rather, a certain candidate. And as we reply and try to correct the I decided to dedicate my column to one of the seemingly false information, we find ourselves battling trolls and fake uncombattable problems we are currently facing—the news enthusiasts online. proliferation of misinformation, which is readily available and accepted by the public. That is the sad truth about some Filipinos. They spent too much time entertaining and spreading fake news, when there Going back to the now deleted, yet still widely circulated, is no shortage of reliable resources, and a quick Google video of which I am still suffering from secondhand search could have corrected the said information. embarrassment, let me enumerate some of the reasons why I hate it. Pathetic, yet sad at the same time, isn’t it? We are living in a time where we can easily discern if an Firstly, it mocked the profession of which I, one day, seek information is true or merely a propaganda, hence, to continue to be part of. To be clear, I am not gatekeeping the release being a proliferator of the so called fake news, or to continue of Tiktok videos about the accounting profession, instead I relying on unreliable sources, for me, is nothing short of being am hoping that those who did, will at least cross reference a fool. their sources to ensure that their contents will be reliable. As DEVIL’S ADVOCATE Clark Alduz M. Viray, EDITOR IN CHIEF “I decided to dedicate my column to one of the seemingly uncombattable problems we are currently facing—the proliferation of misinformation, which is readily available and accepted by the public.” | 7ADVO MAG OPINION
KOLUMNISTA Angel Joy I. Liwag, MANAGING EDITOR “What do you call a student government that cannot be reached by the media and the student body?” EXCESS BAGGAGE As the University started distance learning in the last three official Collegiate publication, The Westernian Advocate to semesters, reconnecting with student organizations and scrutinize and cover their projects and events, even if it’s the departments has gotten harder for the publication, and the usual virtual leadership training. dismissal of University of Batangas Student Government (UBSG) election last academic year has revealed the What do you call a student government that cannot be significance of student leadership. reached by the media and the student body? In all honesty, I don’t see the need for the revival of the This question lingers way back May when ADVO published supreme council this academic year after I made an impression an investigative article regarding the return of student leader based on my experience as a former News Internal Editor representation, the alleged electoral fraud, and unwarranted and Association of Legal Management Majors (ALMMa) Vice activities surfacing during the period. President for External Affairs. That time, we contacted BUILD, as they were the involved Even with no funding for projects, webinars, and other party list being endorsed allegedly by their department, to give external activities, student organizations were still reminded a statement regarding the issue in the hope that the student of the annual accomplishment reports that needed to be body will be disseminated the truth they deserved, but what submitted despite the adjustments on learning setup. we received was a message refusing the interview as they were “busy” planning for projects for their term. This made me wonder why out of all times did the University call off any appointment or election for UBSG A.Y. 2020- Ironically, two months have passed in this academic year 2021 which made it difficult for the student organizations to and we have yet to see what’s in store with the pledged UBSG centralize activities in each department under the guise of SG projects aimed “for IMPROVEMENT, EXCELLENCE, AND Governors, Councillors, and Representatives. DEVELOPMENT of the whole Ubian community”. Leadership is expected to be put into practice by student Whereas we have already jotted down events from notable organizations rather than by the UBSG. student organizations which already posted their turnover officials first few weeks after the start of classes and in the During our regular checking for newsworthy events, most, if process of conducting events submitted upon their renewal, not all of the executive board of each organization has already by which, are also strictly monitored by Student Affairs and presented to my junior writers their plan of activities for the External Programs (SAEP). whole academic year. Is there a need for excess baggage when we already have While I commend these organizations for their adept these student organizations doing all the legwork? response amidst the challenge of the new normal, I cannot help but feel offended on their behalf as it’s taking forever for I personally take pride in the way the student organizations the current UBSG lineup to live up to their promises during continue to serve students under their respective program with their campaign period. little to no delay while juggling a heavy academic workload. In this sense, it’s not even a bad thing to demand the same Contrary to expectation, my subordinate was denied by thing from the supreme council. After all, they signed up for Renz B. Contreras, UBSG Executive President when asked the leadership responsibility. for BUILD, his party list’s platform in order for the University’s 8 | ADVO MAG OPINION
NO BOUNDARY I am dreaming of a life shaped by appreciation, rather than With the opportunity given, I tried to continue my path till perfection. the end of my undergraduate years, and I will never forget the entire Brahman community and those who appreciated Lost in the circus of thoughts that runs inside my head, the publication’s efforts. Never in my life did I expect that while finding myself stuck in reverse on the idea of perfection my idea to liven up my college experience would lead at the same time, I find myself living in a world filled with fears, me recognized as the chief and “ate” of all the university’s uncertainties, and disappointments. outstanding journalists. Every moment spent with my batch mates, seniors, and juniors, whom I consider my constants, I’m an overthinker who is concerned about what others encourages me to see the best in each experience. Little think of me. My mind is constantly racing for problems that do they know how lucky I am to have them who makes it so do not exist in the first place. Those ideas used to scribble difficult to leave and say goodbye. on the pages where sentiments and emotional responses remain unspoken, which may be one of my complex patterns Too often, our time and attention are wasted on the to change. desperation to reach perfection and cover up certain flaws and mistakes, but they are neither apparent or perceptible. I experience days where I doubt myself often and not The world couldn’t be flawless, and maybe it is better with having the courage to try out something new always controls these imperfections. me. Even though I had no prior experience in the field, ADVO gave me a once-in-a-lifetime chance to expand my potential To embrace ourselves is challenging, and waking up with by allowing me to feel confident in my artistry without having a sense of confidence every day is even more difficult. Our second thoughts. It’s inspiring to see how many people minds, I believe, are often a chaotic place to be, especially appreciate you and your aesthetic creations, and as I progress when we fill it with thoughts on how to impress others. I’m along my path, learning from everyone around me and to a so grounded in values and desires that I have to be like that, random person I met is something I value even more. so I have to live up to society’s standards. As I set aside my stance, I realize that I shouldn’t get engrossed in such And so the haunting question unfolds -- what do I take for transitory perspectives influenced by someone else’s image granted? I try to think things through because I always care of perfection, tainted by someone else’s definition of me. for others’ opinions and feelings more than myself. Along the way, I started to appreciate every little thing of mine and For the most part, instead of being good enough for someone commenced on words to put into action. As I tried to explore else, I become the finest version of myself because I used to various places to search for the perfect angle, I met new believe that all my flaws were usual and not wrong at all. people and witnessed things and experiences filled with flaws. By looking closely at them, I can see the perfection in images that are filled with chaos. SNAPSHOT Joviallyn C. Belegal, AUDITOR / CHIEF PHOTOJOURNALIST “As I tried to explore various places to search for the perfect angle, I met new people and witnessed things and experiences filled with flaws.” | 9ADVO MAG OPINION
ITAAS NG BABA Alyssa G. An, BUSINESS MANAGER / LITERARY EDITOR “Para sa akin, mabuti na ang walang relihiyon na magsasabing siya ang tama at ang lumabag sa mga nakasulat sa kanilang banal na aklat ay mali.” HANGGANG SAAN, KUNG TUNAY NA MALAYA Dalawang oras bago pa maupo sa iyong kinalalagyan, bago nang wala namang nagdidikta? Dahil tayong mga tao ay hindi mo pa mabasa ang mga salitang binubuo ng mga letrang ito, lang binubuo ng kabutihan, tayo ay mayroon ding kasamaang ay pinag-iisipan ko kung ano bang relihiyon ang dapat kong taglay sa ating katawan. kabilangan. Ano nga ba ang dapat nating katakutan? Maraming Marahil may tatlong punto sa aking buhay kung saan indibidwal ang bumitiw sa kanilang pananampalataya dahil hinahanap ko ang sapat na liwanag na magbibigay nang sa maraming katanungang hindi masagot ng kanilang kaunting ginhawa sa dumidilim kong paligid. Minsan kinabibilangang grupo. Hindi dahil sa kakulangan sa nakakapagtakang malayo na sa katotohanan ang paniniwala pananampalaya, marahil ito ay sa rason na ang pag-exist sa mga pagbabawal— ng religion ay parte ng human necessity and necessity is the mother of inventions. Inembento ng tao ang relihiyon upang sa paglilimita sa sang-katauhan na gumawa ng bagay na sagutin din ang ilang katanungan ng ating pinagmulan, ang naayon sa kanilang free will. mga sakit na ating pinagdadaanan at anong kahihinatnan kung sakaling dumating si kamatayan. Natanong mo na ba sa sarili mo? Kung Siya ba’y nariyan sa tuwing ikaw ay nabibigo at nanalo o siya’y umiiral ngunit Sa puntong ito bago mo ilipat ang pahina, wala namang wala naman talagang pakialam? mawawala sa maniwala ngunit hanggang saan nga ba tayo dadalhin ng ating kahibangan sa paglimita ng totoong Malawak ang pag-iisip ng tao, marami laging katanungan, kalayaan? Nawa’y lahat ng nasa lupa ay matunton ang may mga bagay na hindi rin maipaliwag kagaya ng mga kaniyang tinatahak na daan patungo sa kasagutan. misteryosong paglitaw ng mga kakaibang elemento at mga inidibidwal na nakikita raw Siya. Datapwa’t ay sapat na nga Kung ako lang naman ang tatanungin. Para sa akin, para sa pananampalataya na para sa mga relihiyoso. Kung mabuti na ang walang relihiyon na magsasabing siya ang saan ito’y regalong handog galing sa kaitaasan, naroon pa rin tama at ang lumabag sa mga nakasulat sa kanilang banal na ang puwang sa ating mga sariling nagtatanong kung tunay ba aklat ay mali. Bilang isang agnostic, ang magandang sundin sila o kathang isip lamang para sa kaligtasan? ay ang relihiyong may respeto sa kapwa, marunong umunawa at higit sa lahat alam na ang kabutihan ay ang mahalaga Gumawa ka na ba ng mabuti na hindi nakabatay sa mga upang maisakatuparan ang inaasam na free will. Malayo man banal na kasulatan. Iba’t iba ang konsepto ng paniniwala ang sa mga dasal at sinasabing kaligtasan ay ako’y maniniwala na masasaksihan sa mga relihiyon na ang paggawa ng masama ang relasyon lamang sa Diyos ang makakasalba sa umuuga ay may karampatang parusa at ang kabutihan ay may nating pananampalaya. kapalit na pabuya. Kung ito ang pagbabatayan ng paggawa ng mabuti, bakit maraming relihiyoso ang nanlalamang sa kaniyang kapwa? Hindi ba ang kabutihan ay kusang ginagawa 10 | ADVO MAG OPINION
ALL-AROUND SAUCE Being an engineering student and a student journalist with forcing us to take extreme efforts just to satisfy our day-to-day passion for designing, I woke up finding myself wanting to demands. Hence, everyone has been adamant on looking look for a graphic designing part time job, in my very effort to for a job or two even, betting their everyday needs to have a help my parents pay for my tuition fee. Scrolling through my 50/50 chance of getting hired or even considered. Facebook news feed, I found a fresh advertisement posted one hour ago. My lips curved up a bit when I saw that they I began to ask myself, why? I am certain in the work that I do were looking for graphic designers, but upon reading the that I managed the confidence I needed to apply for a job. But skills required, I locked my phone, laid on my bed, and started while looking for it, I feel dumbed down, questioning myself if I staring at the ceiling. am qualified to even do the thing I love. Why are there certain businesses looking for qualifications that are too high in one Hiring: Graphic Designers person? Are they looking for just mere graphic designers, or Skills Required: an all-around sauce? Those qualifications alone are just the basics for a whole production team, and what is in it for me, a -Advanced knowledge on Layout and Graphic Design minimum wage? -Expert in Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, and Adobe Illustrator For a person—a student at that, I know that I cannot do it. I -3D Modelling and Rendering am just an average designer that does design out of free time; -Motion Graphics and Animation out of my passion for it. -Website and Application Development -Product Photography Reflecting on this sad reality, I deeply sympathize with my -Photo and Video Editing fellow graphic designers or even aspirants, especially those Salary: Minimum Wage who are just starting out with building their careers. A job that is unleashing their passion and full potential all the while a These are among the terrifying and mind-bending salary that can feed a family or even help pay a student’s ‘basic’ qualifications of graphic designers I’ve always been tuition fee. amazed—appalled by showing in job advertisements sea- deep on Facebook. A job so lacking of better terms for the How can they do it if such job postings are abusive and, very description suits a whole team rather than a one-man especially at this much desperate times, opportunists? It job. all utters these two words that not just applies for graphic designers but also to many professionals out there: It is not news that people are losing their jobs, many of Overworked and underpaid. us have been thrown on the edge by the worldwide crisis Tough times do not always call for desperate measures—at least not this desperate. I think we need to reconsider. SENTINEL Marie Joy M. Axalan, CHIEF LAYOUT ARTIST “Why are there certain businesses looking for qualifications that are too high in one person?” || 11AADDVVOOMMAAGG OOPPININIOIONN
FA_T CHECK Jane Therese C. Banaag, FEATURES EDITOR “I have came to realize that such discrimination towards schools and students outside the metropolitan realm is deep-rooted to our nation’s unresolved traumas after being colonized for so long.” METROPOLITAN COMPLEX Apparently, the triumph of UBian, Brian Dominic Dinglasan, We were forced to embrace imperialism to the point where and the other nine topnotchers of the August 2021 Mechanical we put other people in the shoes we have already outgrown. Engineering Licensure Exam all hailing from provincial schools That even after 75 years of being free from foreign occupation, was a dismay to some. One of them being a reputable review Filipinos continue to perceive the way of life as a David-Goliath center who protested that these promdi-s only excelled due duel where one has to emerge inferior. to the exam’s Metro Manila leg cancellation supposed to be taken by students from the Big Four schools. It is unfortunate that we have outroared the monsters who once haunted us in our own land as we continue to pit If I were my 16-year-old self who was always pressured ourselves against our own countrymen. As evidence, we put to study in the polluted and populated mess that is Manila, the Big Four—UP, UST, Ateneo, and DLSU, up a superficial I would have been eagerly nodding my head in agreement. pedestal that any other schools can reach. But with almost three years in the University of Batangas, I can attest that there is nothing shameful about spending my Universities like Saint Louis in Baguio, San Carlos in Cebu, college years in the province nor is.there anything special and even BatSU in Batangas have already proven this one about being educated in Manila. board exam after another but every time provincial schools thrive, these Manila elitists always still seem to question their Moreso, I find it problematic that as one who is aware of feat. the difficulty of these examinations, the well-renounced review center knows that such achievements are anything But the odds are in these probinsyanos’ favors. Because but the works of luck and timing. But instead, they resorted as we continue to establish Manila as the Capitol of a more to insubstantial belittlements towards students who had realistic yet less rustic version of The Hunger Games, traffic to endure the most crucial examination of their lives in the continues to take a toll on its high-budgeted roads and the middle of a pandemic. rampancy of COVID cases burden their economy, one lockdown after another. True enough, the superiority complex still exists in a progressive society like ours. But digging into the depth of this It is easy to say these are works of karma, but I would like to kind of mindset, I have came to realize that such discrimination think this is the universe trying to tell us that there is no good in towards schools and students outside the metropolitan realm being a sour loser— be it in the academe or the life that awaits is deep-rooted to our nation’s unresolved traumas after being thereafter. We must scrap the idea of “survival of the fittest” colonized for so long. and use the complexities of the world as an opportunity to build connections where everyone can give and seek support. 12 | AADDVVOOMMAAGG OPINION
WRONG TURN Snowflake. Oversensitive. Feminazi. family life. It happened with how a feminist pioneer in the These were just some of the labels that were hurled at me 1970’s, Erin Pizzey, just became a footnote in history because in the past as someone who is a vocal advocate of women’s she worried that feminism is becoming an elite project with rights. During the first few times I received those remarks, no place for housewives like herself. She also thought that I asked myself, why would I be hated for defending women it encouraged women to see themselves as victims in all from the crude and sexist jokes of President Duterte or for circumstances. firmly stating that rape is never a woman’s fault? My reason for rallying behind the cause was not even intended to hurt Moreover, I’ve also noticed that other feminists are viciously anyone but only to genuinely help. attacking Emma Watson, a popular feminist who inspired Delving deeper into it, I realized that it’s not really targeted at many girls including myself. According to them, her campaign the specific matter I’ve been campaigning about. Something wasn’t doing enough for all women. They’re forgetting that bigger is at play and I’ve come into a conclusion that we are Watson is only one person that’s why we have to band probably advocating for feminism in the wrong way. together in order to fill the gaps which she couldn’t do alone. For instance, a quick search in the internet would give us the Oxford Languages definition of feminism as the “advocacy Therefore, we should always go back to the root cause of women’s rights on the basis of the equality of the sexes”. why feminism was started in the first place. It is supposed to Hence, the first misstep must have been committed when it unify everyone, not divide us. There have been errors but we was often misunderstood as a poorly-dressed misandry, i.e. a shouldn’t paint the whole thing red and demand to annihilate man-hating movement. it all at once. It also doesn’t mean that it should not have been We couldn’t fully dodge that accusation when concepts such established to begin with. Because if not for its existence, the as “toxic masculinity” pervaded the public sphere. Its meaning injustices experienced by women would have never been was taken out of context which resulted in demonizing the addressed. whole male community―immediately tagging other good men as, well, toxic. Taking a page from the book of a critic of History already told us that we wouldn’t be able to kill a thing feminism, Mona Charen, women’s hostility towards all men with the means from which it grows; otherwise, we’re only “just embitters relations between the sexes”. feeding it even more. Thus, what should be done is to rectify In consequence, no matter how good-natured our purpose the subsequent mistakes we’ve made since the goal that we is, it would never really break through the barriers we’re trying really aspire for is equality. Frankly, we wouldn’t accomplish it to breach as long as we still hadn’t patched up the gnawing if we kept on hating one another. Instead, feminism should be chasm that feminism had sown between men and women. about building a network of mutual aid founded on love. Ironically enough, the movement also has to call a ceasefire with the war it waged against fellow women. Modern feminists If we further run into the wrong direction because of our are quick to ostracize their advocates when they don’t join the failure to admit our mistakes, we would also be further away bandwagon of taring all men and denigrating those who value from our goals of establishing a better world for women, and ultimately, for everyone. We’ve already taken great strides in the past. There’s no doubt that just like before, we can do it—again. PART OF YOUR WORD Arielle Dane C. Adan, CULTURES EDITOR “If we further run into the wrong direction because of our failure to admit our mistakes, we would also be further away from our goals of establishing a better world for women, and ultimately, for everyone.” | 13AADDVVOOMMAAGG OPINION
UNDER CONSTRUCTION Nixon A. De Villa, DEVCOM EDITOR “There is no point in collecting wealth I can not spend in my entire lifetime, but there is value in securing a community where everyone has the chance to thrive.” OUR PAIN, THEIR GAIN As someone who comes from a not-so-well-off family, I tuition, that somehow retained its sky-high price amidst an used to fantasize about flying a private jet to a private island online set-up, the Sy siblings are already planning where to and spending a month in my private mansion before heading erect new SM buildings. As we incessantly post “laptop cutie” back to my private spaces in the urban. Wealth was the idea or “cellphone cutie” to keep up with the demands of flexible of a good life. It is human nature to thirst for luxury like I learning, the Villars are scanning the country for agricultural did anyway, like most of us do—until we discover that such lands soon to be subdivisions, areas they can buy at any illusions can only be materialized by inevitably stepping on moment. And by the time you reach this segment of this others’ survival. column, the Gokongwei siblings might have earned enough money to give you a house since you started reading. Billionaires should not exist. And before you roll your eyes and claim that this is another remark born from incurable Seeing that list and thinking about it made me realize how jealousy, take time to realize that there are no ethical means futile hard work and perseverance are if we remain trapped in for a person to accumulate that amount, as much as there is this unjust distribution of resources. Even if I spend no sleep no valid reason to do so while the rest of the world withers to studying to be the most productive engineer, and if indeed I hunger and inadequate needs. become one, I will never earn even a fraction of what I need to avail a private jet and a private island and private spaces. Just hours ago, I was scrolling through my Twitter feed Unless I resort to abusing others. when I came across CNN’s article about the list of Ph’s richest personas based on Forbes’ latest list. Apparently, in the However, as frustrating as it is, it is also a sharp reminder middle of a global health crisis, these tycoons and business to keep track of what goals truly matter. There is no point in giants collectively increased their net worth by billions more. collecting wealth I can not spend in my entire lifetime, but A doctorate degree in economics is not needed to sense the there is value in securing a community where everyone has blatant exploitation of the less privileged that keeps the gold the chance to thrive. rushing for those at the top of the triangle. We are so past the “‘pag inggit, pikit” rebuttal when First, one does not accrue unfathomable net worth through criticizing an elitist class that shouldn’t exist in the first place. clean, hard work. Or at least, not through his own. Rags-to- The pandemic crisis opened our eyes to how broken the riches stories do not apply to those whose success relies on economic system has always been, and how heirs from one- others’ suffering. It is always the working class that collectively syllable surnames comfortably sit on heaps of cash generated carries the burden of underpaid labor, inhumane schedules, from our blood and sweat. We need to not just eat the rich little to no benefits, anti-poor regulations, and inherently unfair anymore—it is time to devour and condemn this culture system. While CEOs drown in a profit tsunami, workers barely completely, along with the generational curse of inexcusable make enough money to support their families on a daily basis. privilege that has been robbing us of what we deserve for a long time. For a more relatable setting, think about this: while our parents scratch heads on where to get payment for our school 14 | ADVO MAG OPINION
STORIES OF BRUSH STROKES Despite the complexity and sophistication art has shared art should be shared to the world. with us, the real problem is how we’ve reached a society that Who determines the value of art? looks down on it – especially local art – making our very own Many may acknowledge aesthetically pleasing paintings artists give up. hanging on the wall, quirky crafts displayed in a museum, or Artists continue to battle the diminishing worth of all forms of artworks that changed history, but only a few understand the art forced by people who consume it. Support given isn’t even process artists have been to come up with these masterpieces. the bare minimum with famous personalities only offering Still and all, while it is visible that art is made to be undervalued exposure, companies depreciating the value of the artists’ most of the time, there are still people who perceive artworks works, and individuals just giving free meals. The reality is, the way they should be viewed – paramount, transformative, artists are the backbone of the backbones of our society and and worth a king’s ransom. yet, they are disdained and convinced to believe that nothing can be gained from it. I’ve been creating arts for years now – be it for fun, to inspire, to share my story, and even to earn money. Looking What amount of art do we truly focus on? back, a lot of people really made me question my worth as Lack of financial support is rooted from the lack of interest an artist. Some have belittled my knowledge and capability in of people to the arts. Work of art seems to be considered as the field, some ridiculed what I thought was already the best. mere entertainment. Effort, time, and passion poured into There were times when I was almost swayed. There were them are barely seen. Only when artists establish a name times when I almost gave up. It was hard to constantly bear on the world stage will people take notice and recognize. in mind that their perceptions about me and what I do really Everyone is doubtful and quiet during the whole climb. don’t really matter at all. Nonetheless, there are still people and artists, who put so much of themselves to what they do and what they love. These On my journey, I met a woman deeply connected in art. She are people who bear being unrecognized to follow what their alone defied all the thoughts of resigning myself to failure. heart says. These are artists who, despite being looked down She helped me express myself more in the arts. She taught on, continue and strive to change the world. Theatre artists me how to make an art that people will care about. She shared continue to perform on stage even with a small number of with me experiences I needed to grow as an artist. A co-artist, audiences just so they can keep our theatres alive. Painters a mentor, a friend… She made me realize that there are still continue to leave pieces of them in every masterpiece just so people who believe in the power of what we do. they can inspire other people. Musicians continue to create music just so they can transform different emotions and Significantly, the value of art must be understood and feelings of people for the people. realized by both sides: for artists, to deal with the insecurities Artists are not promised with a life-changing endgame, but and protect their art; for non-artists, to respect art and we still continue making arts. We still go on and believe that recognize its importance. Who determines the value of art? You. HMPSLP Erwin A. Tiberio, CHIEF ARTIST (TECHNICAL) “Only when artists establish a name on the world stage will people take notice and recognize. Everyone is doubtful and quiet during the whole climb.” || 15AADDVVOOMMAAGG OOPPIINNIIOONN
DIGIKAGE Angelo M. Mendenilla, CHIEF ARTIST (CREATIVE) “Bakit impraktikal ang gawing hanapbuhay ang sining? Bakit isang peligro ang pagiging isang full-time artist?” KOMISYON PAMBILING SHAMPOO Isa sa mga pinakakawili-wiling tanong sa ano mang hindi pa din nagbabago ang bugso ng pagsasawalang-bahala konsepto, ay ang salitang ‘bakit’, ngunit sa industriya ng sa pagsisikap ng mga alagad ng sining sa bansa. sining, ang salitang ito ay may dalang kay pait na reyalidad: bakit impraktikal ang gawing hanapbuhay ang sining? Bakit Kagaya na lamang ng dinanas ni Frederick Escota, isang isang peligro ang pagiging isang full-time artist? bente-kwatro anyos na layout artist, nang bigla siya at ang kaniyang mga kasamahang sinisante ng Top Draw Animation Sa mundong ating ginagalawan, hindi abot ng karamihan Studios nang walang paunang babala. Sa depensa naman ng ang kalaliman ng sining. Ito ay dahil sanay sila sa mababaw kompanya, sinabi nitong wala na daw silang bagong shows. at sa madali, isang dahilan kung bakit imbes na matuto kung Ito ang pinakaunang beses na naganap ang pangyayari paano mangisda, mas gusto nilang makatanggap agad ng dahil noong matumal din ang mga palabas, hindi naman sila tilapia. Dahil dito, ang ano mang bagay na nangangailangan itinakwil ng kumpanya. Kung ako ang tatanungin, ramdam ng malalim na pag-iisip at bagay na hindi pisikal na ko ang hinagpis na mawalan ng trabaho, subalit iba ang mapapakinabangan, ay ang mga bagay na iilan lamang ang kaso nina Escota. Isang pagmamaliit, kawalan ng respeto malugod na pupuri at bibili. Isang napakasakit na sampal at konsiderasyon ang sitwasyon na iyon dahil kumpara sa sa mukha, ngunit iyon ang katotohanang kailangan nating isang regular na empleyado, hindi madali ang pagsisante sa tanggapin upang mabago ang isang sistemang kay tagal mga trabahante. Sa katunayan pa nga’y ilang buwan din ang namamahay sa ating mga isip. inaabot sa pag-aasikaso ng mga papeles. Bunga na nga rin na iilan lang ang nais magpa-art Ang naging karanasan ni Escota ay isang sitwasyon commission, malakas ang kompetisyon sa industriya. Natural na kinakaharap ng marami pang Pilipino sa industriya ng lamang sa mga kliyente na pumili ng mga artist na ilang taon sining. Isang pangyayaring nagsisilbing patunay, na wala sa na ang pagsasanay at magaganda talaga ang artworks. bokabolaryo ng mga tao ang respeto para sa mga artist. Kaya, naisipan ko na para makipagsabayan sa kompetensiya at makakuha ng magpapa-commission sa akin, kailangan Hangga’t hindi pa natatapon ang basurang pag-iisip na kong babaan ang presyo ko, kumpara sa iba. ang sining ay walang silbi at walang saysay, kailanma’y hindi magiging isang praktikal na desisyon ang paghananap- Kung ako ang tatanungin, ang pagiging isang artist ay buhay sa mundo ng art. Hangga’t iilan lamang ang naniniwala impraktikal sa kadahilanang ang ating lipunan ay nalason na sa halaga at kabuluhan ng mga artwork, habambuhay na sa kaisipang ang pagiging isang artist ay hindi maituturing na magiging isang peligro ang industriyang ito. Hangga’t trabaho. marami pa din ang barat bumayad sa mga artists dahil sa paniniwalang ang artwork lamang ang binabayaran at hindi Totoo nga naman, isang panganib ang pagiging isang ang maraming taong iginugol sa pag-eensayo noon para full-time artist kung ang ganitong sakit sa pag-iisip ay hindi makagawa ng napakagandang obra ngayon, wala nang pag- pa na nagagamot. Ang mindset na ito ang ugat kung bakit asa pang umasenso ang industriyang ito. hanggang ngayon, minamaliit at binabarat ang mga artist sa ating bansa. Kahit sa panahon ng pag-unlad ng teknolohiya Hangga’t marami ang magtatanggal sa pakpak ng sining, na nagbunga ng maraming estilo ng sining gaya ng digital art, kailanma’y hindi na ito makakalipad pa pataas. 16 | ADVO MAG OPINION
WHITE COLOR = BEAUTIFUL LIFE Our life is colorful with full of different stories. Stories Color BLUE is also needed as overcoming all the of past that affect the present and future that we want to challenges in our lives as someone who strengthen our cherish or not. Defining it with wheel of colors, which we FAITH and making believe that there is HEAVEN after cannot predict what will be. despair. The INDIGO connected that someone is GOD who provide us a heaven preventing you to not go back Let have color RED. We all experience the red color in the darkness as HE provide us wisdom, devotion and in our life. The experience of sadness, emptiness and all peace in our lives, which pertaining to VIOLET. negative feelings that makes our life too bloody in literal meaning, which we wanted to surrender be innocent Life is too colorful like rainbow; we are the one coloring again. Like an innocent child that when they cried the it. But we are not alone as that there is GOD who always feeling of pain and forget it easily it. with us. We will win all the challenges or struggles in our lives. Always remember that GOD gives light a WHITE When there is sadness there always be happiness and color from the sun that tells us “Fear not, for I am with you; joy in our life. Every struggles or challenges, there always be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, a rainbow after it as there is a saying if you fall 7 times I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right you will stand up 8. Stand many times than falling. Mix hand.” (Isaiah 41:10) with someone in your life which makes the RED to be ORANGE. GOD is always with US as GOD is LOVE. The Bible says in John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that He YELLOW turned the RED life into ORANGE. Have gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in someone who makes or turn our lives positive and gain Him should not perish but have everlasting life” and John everlasting joy or happiness. Which GREEN color is 14:16 “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one reminding us to choose the right one and make harmony comes to the Father except through me”. Always color with that someone. your life with white even you are experiencing other colors and entrust and allow JESUS enters your life. In end we can say our LIFE is SOO BEAUTIFUL. BELIEVER Mr. Christer A. Lopez, ADVISER “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” || 17AADDVVOOMMAAGG OOPPIINNIIOONN
MISTRU Dr. German B. Rosales, ADVISER “For this, I see it red. Flaming red, the energy and the passion to do this routine from day to day.” UNITED COLORS OF MANNY My daily routine specifies colors orange, green, red, Before 7am, I see to it that I’m prepared; physically and and blue. psychologically. Groomed after taking a fifteen minute bath, then thinking of what task to take first. I don’t have Starting the day ORANGE…. a scheduler like calendar application in my cellphone nor The beeping of my alarm wakes me up early in the a sticky note on my laptop’s task bar. I don’t prefer to do morning, usually at four o’clock on the dot. Putting back it; instead, my brain is my scheduler. Those scheduled linens and pillows after having a thirty minute time of tasks alarm like a bell in my mind keeping me organized recalling what’s in my dream—that’s my usual routine on what is next after another. before going to the kitchen to see what will really push me to a jumpstart the day. Going downstairs, four adult My laptop and my busy fingers are constant partner for felines are waiting for their early morning nibble of either the whole day. Online classes, virtual meetings, checking either whiskas or friskies--branded cat food for those four of students output and onsite attendance to office occupy puspins. Spoiled brats huh! When I did all these, I am my schedule the whole day. For this, I see everything in done with the color ORANGE—which means I am ready flaming red, the energy and the passion to do this routine to go. from day to day. The color green is now ON….. I love NAVY BLUE…. A big mug of coffee concoction which is a combination Come five pm, the time for me to slowdown. If I am at of half teaspoon of coffee granules with the right amount school, that’s the time to shut down my laptop, roll the of brown sugar combined with fresh milk is my usual cables, pack up my things and detach from my workspace companion for at least thirty minutes while playing my and also from my workplace. When working at home, it favorite online game, POKEMON GO. Yes of course. signals a date with my mug—brewed coffee is better. I really love to catch those digital pocket monsters. I’ve What comes next? Either binge-watching Netflix or scan been playing this game since 2016, now at level 45, the channels looking for CNN or TV patrol for updates. wherein 50 is the cap with no plan of deleting the app. This is my day to day routine represented by colors. To Ready to wash clothes which I do on a regular basis. I quote David Hockney a renowned English painter of the don’t use washing machine instead I do it manually with 60s, “I prefer living in color.” my bare hands. So do I. 18 | AADDVVOO MMAAGG OPINION
UBIAN CORNER Indeed – it because they all made it up just to avoid offending me There is a blurry line between being the best and just because apparently, I am doing my best? Or maybe, that’s all being someone with potential; some praises sound like a I can be; someone with potential, and that’s just it. backhanded compliment most of the time. Playing the game of deception; fearless façade in broad It will make you wonder how would it feel just to be crushed daylight while vulnerable, cramming-overthinker at night. and stay crushed until you are ready to give it another try People are too convinced that you will carry on regardless instead of being resilient and used to it. It will keep you up of how often you reach rock bottom. While it is also true, at night, asking yourself the same questions from almost 10 sometimes you wish that you do not have to. But why is that? years ago; Am I really making progress? Did they choose me You have potential. because I did great, or was it because I am just always there? Am I still making the right decisions? This is the new question I asked myself recently. Almost in my third year in You have potential – Legal Management, and I am still questioning my decision And that is when your internal dilemma begins. You are as if I could turn back time and choose something else – torn between being strong and independent, doing things on Something that other people would say is best for me. It is your own, and playing the game of failure and the ladder of with great shame that as much as I longed to receive words of success. Patiently anticipating your great fall as the fang of affirmation, one of my red flags is that I do not believe in any failure bit you because, sadly, your potential will not save you praises I get anymore. from being a flawed human being. What a hypocrite. It will only make you feel like a slave, thinking how nice it Praises and kind words are heartwarming and empowering would be if I could have at least one person with whom I could until you realize that they can also sound like mockeries. share a cup of coffee? Someone to reassure me that I’ll have “You have potential in writing. Why don’t you join the school a safe haven at the end of the tempest instead of gaslighting publication?” Legends say that until now, she’s still broken- me that I could have done better! hearted for not winning even the lowest position in the Division Enslaved by the idea of being who you really are instead of Level. “For sure easy lang sayo mga subject natin, ang talino living as someone they thought you were. mo kasi.” And she received 2.00 at the end of the semester. Still – “Student-leader yan! Nako matalino ‘yan at magaling.” As the You have potential. Believe me! You just have to be more webinar ended, her fifth breakdown began. patient, take your time, and focus on the goal, and you will be I am always the student who has the potential but never the best. the best. Why can’t I see the potential they saw in me? Was Sometimes all I could think of was, that they were all obsessed with the idea of nurturing my potential instead of asking what I actually wanted. STRONG, INDEPENDENT-SLAVE Clarisse A. Ilagan, BS LEGMA - 2ND YEAR “Praises and kind words are heartwarming and empowering until you realize that they can also sound like mockeries.” | 19AADDVVOOMMAAGG OPINION
LETTER to the Editor Dear Editor, Last time, I sent an email to our registrar regarding a request for an authenticated copy of my Enrollment Assessment Form (EAF) which I need for a scholarship requirement. It took me multiple attempts before my email got noticed by the university staff. I was told that I need to pay first, so that’s what I did. However, after days of waiting for a response, I was informed by the assistant registrar that she couldn’t process my EAF since she’s currently on sick leave. She instructed me to just forward my concern to the main email address of the registrar. But after doing so, I did not receive any reply from them anymore and up to this date, I still have not seen my EAF. From asking other Ubians, I gathered that they also had a hard time requesting documents from the registrar’s office. With the unabated onslaught of pandemic, everyone does not have the luxury of physically going to our university to obtain necessary papers. It’s even more difficult for students like me who reside in far-away provinces. I understand that everyone’s straining under the heavy burden that the pandemic has brought upon us, but I just wished that the institution would provide better services to their students in accordance with the way they are compelling us to conform to their demanding academic policies. It seems unfair that while we are struggling to beat deadlines after deadlines, we are still finding it hard to reach them concerning things that are of great importance. Because of these incapacities, opportunities pass and efforts are wasted for nothing. Will this continue in the future? Do I still have to send countless emails for a countless number of days before my request is granted? Being the voice of the student body, I hope the publication would help us call the attention of the administration in resolving this matter. Thank you so much. Hoping, FLYN BS Legal Management-II Good Day Flyn, As a scholar myself, I can relate to the frustration you are experiencing due to the wasted time and efforts caused by the delay of the registrar’s replies, and the other lapses in their processes. On the other hand, we should give them the benefit of the doubt, as just like the students, the university’s personnel are still grappling with the problems related to the shift of the university’s transactions to the online platform. With that being said, we should also recognize their efforts as they try to keep up with the document requests they are handed everyday, while working with a limited staff and operating hours. With regards to your predicament, the university, with its continuous pursuit for helping its student body, is now in the process of offering an online request site for documents that the students might need, which aims to facilitate the increased reliance of the institution to the online set up, as a cause of the ongoing global pandemic. Through the said action/ intervention, Ub hopes to reduce the need for physical visitations to the registrar, for the safety of the students and to save their resources and time. I hope this helps you, Clark Alduz Viray Editor in Chief 20 || AADDVVOOMMAAGG OOPPININIOIONN
YoUBlog Ever since the start of the global pandemic and COVID-related restrictions in 2020, the University of Batangas (UB) has culminated in distance learning to continue its educational commitment. Nevertheless, the increasing pressure and heavy workload brought by the said setup have led various students to clamor for academic and health breaks to rest and regain their strength after months of strenuous online learning. Concerning this issue in which both students and professors are involved, ADVO garnered online interviews to accumulate their opinions on whether UBians deserve the academic and health breaks they have been eyeing and longing for. Jose Rafhael Rosales Geann Magsino Beth Christine Gega STUDENTS BS Engineering-I AB Political Science-I Bachelor of Culture and Arts Education-II As a student myself, I know what It depends on how long the timeline I think so because, through a health it is like to put much time and effort to of each semester in a school year is break, it will help the student refresh be satisfied with the grades that we and also the number of workloads given their mind and prevent study fatigue. receive, and there is no doubt that the by professors. I believe we all have our And at the same time, it allows the students need to do this for several struggles as students, especially since student to explore what they are looking months, and for this reason, I believe we’ve been stuck in this online setup for. As others said, “Education can wait, that the UBians also deserve the break for more than a year. But we shouldn’t but basic needs cannot.” that they require to replenish the energy always like the longer breaks as it can they spent, both mentally and physically. really make the school year a bit longer In addition, I think a reasonable amount and also because it can be hard for of time for the break should be given by other people who yearn for education the institution for the UBians to enjoy and enjoy doing school stuff. their time resting and preparing for the upcoming school days. Abella Ricafort Roy Talavera Isaac Navarro PROFESSORS College of Nursing and Midwifery College of Arts and Sciences College of Arts and Sciences Everyone deserves a break, I am in favor of an academic/health Yes, I strongly agree that the Ubians especially during this stressful time. break since this is viewed as one of deserve academic breaks. Allowing Academic breaks for students can give the solutions that can help in assisting students to de-stress by giving them them ample time to breathe and clear the UBians regarding mental-health opportunities to take ownership of their minds from worries. But only if they concerns. With that being said, there their mental health and take breaks as will use the given time wisely. If not, the should be no second thoughts on its needed can be beneficial to learning. purpose of the acad break is defeated. implementation. Taking into account that Offering academic/health breaks is It doesn’t have to be that long. A few mental health should be normalized. a step in the right direction by the days, I think, is enough. Otherwise, they And I hope that UBians will utilize this institution because this is one way of will not be motivated enough to push academic break opportunity wisely and supporting the Ubians’ mental, physical, through. Students should be sharpened productively. and emotional well-being. and honed by the challenges that come with education. 21|ADVO MAG OPINION
‘Undeniably the Best’ Eggzam is at rest, sheesh! Text | Jack Cullen Lumipas na ang tatlong se-mess-tre ng pag-akma ng Ubesidad sa online learning ngunit patuloy pa rin ang hinaing ating lib-rawr-y sa main crampus, pahirapan din humingi ng ng mga estupidyante tuwing eggsam sea-shun hinggil sa konsiderasyon mula sa ilang pro-face-sours. halos one day naught-ice na pagpo-post ng iskedyul sa Yu- bhie Fece-book page. “Dulot ng ‘late’ na pagbibigay ng exam schedule, napansin kong karamihan sa mga estudyante ay hindi nakakakuha “Napaka-importante ng maagang pagbibigay anunsyo sa ng exam sa itinakdang oras. Paano iyong mga batang hindi mga mag-aaral tungkol sa nalalapit na pagsusulit nang sa online o hindi aktibo sa Messenger o LMS ng mga oras na gayon ay mapaghandaan nila ito nang mabuti. May mga iyon?” dagdag ni Poison Ivy. mag-aaral na kinakailangan pang pumunta sa mataas na bahagi ng kanilang lugar para lamang makahanap ng maayos Hindi rin umuubra ang conspiracy choo-ry ng ilan na baka na signal at may kailangan pang makihiram ng gadgets,” naman na-short lamang sa ink at A4 bland pepper ang mga paliwanag ni Poison Ivy, isa sa mga nagsusunog ng kilay. de-fart-amento, sapagkat dalawang taon nang online ang mga proseso sa Ubesidad—sadyang marahil ay natra-traffick Isang palaisipan kung ano ang nakakapagpabagal ng na sa kung saan mang kanto ang eggsam dates. proseso ng pagsasaayos ng eggsam iskedyul gayong noong face-to-face clash-es naman ay nakadikit na sa mga bulletin “Para sa akin, hindi maayos ang sistema at pagpapatakbo sa board ang malalaking kartolinang naglalaman ng iskedyul sa ilang departamento ng ekswelahan. Paano magiging sentro bawat sub-jerk isang linggo pa man bago ang nakatakdang ng kahusayan sa larangan ng edukasyon ang paaralan kung petsa ng egg-zam-min-nyay-shuns. simpleng exam schedule ay hindi nila maibigay sa tamang oras lalo na ngayong tayo ay nasa distance learning?” Ayon sa mga bulung-bulungan, tila balakid sa pagpo-post pahayag ni Poison Ivy. ng iskedyul ang mahinang internet konek-shun sa Ubesidad. Ngunit malabong tanggapin ito ng mga mag-ugh-aral bilang Hiling ng MADVO at kuh-mag-ugh-aaralan na mapaaga rason sapagkat kapag sila naman ang hindi maka-attend sa na ang pagpo-post ng eggsam schedules sa fecebook, gee-meet dahil sa signal na mas mahina pa sa aircon ng para naman makapag reb-yuh nang maayos at hindi na makadagdag sa kalituhan ng lahat gayong napaka-heck-tic na ng mga gawain sa LMSheesh. 22 | ADVO MAG OPINION
Oplan Sher-It ng Feces for A.Y. 2021-2022 Sa pagsasabuhay sa tagline ng Text | Zal Zamora Ubesidad, Undeniably the Best, hindi mawawala ang pinaka-espesyal sa lahat Yubi ang kanilang mga estudyanteng ng mga organisasyon sa Yubi—ang Yubi- opisyales, may pag-uusapan pa ba ang es-gi. Opkors, sila lang ang mistulang mga future Marites? kataas-taasang the best out op da beast na nakilala na ng lahat kamakailan. Pero hindi maitatanggi na kung walang ini-SIYA-tiva ang mga opisyales ng Aminin na ang dapat aminin; puro mga pamahalaang pang-estudyante ng You- ibinahaging post at birthday greetings niversidad na makapag-propose ng mga ala-horoscope lang ang nakita ng mga proyekto para sa kapakanan ng Yubi at e-stooge-yante, proof-face-sorry, at mga e-stooge-yante nito, ano pa ang iba pang mga empalayado ng Yubi silbi ng nasabing stoo-dient gu-BURN- pagdating sa pinakamagaling na stoo- ment? Pang-PORMAlity na lang ang dient gu-BURN-ment sa tanang buhay nasabing gu-BURN-ment kung wala ng lahat! namang makabuluhan na mga bagay ang inilulunsad. Wala namang masama kung magbabahagi ng mga post sa iba’t Kung may mashe-share man sana ibang mga sosyal medya accounts ang sa susunod, siguraduhin na ito ay mga Yubi-es-gi, lalo na sa mga new faces kapaki-pakinabang sa lahat ng masang ng mga officers galing sa iba’t ibang Yubi. Ang pagkilatis ng mga ginagawa ng mga colleges. Sadyang karapatan ang gobyernong pang-estudyante ay hindi na pagkilala ng mga You-bee-’yan sa mga mawawala sa social fabric ng mga You- opisyales ng Yubi stoo-dient gu-BURN- bee-’yan na nag-aaral para sa kanilang ment. Kung hindi kilala ng mga taga- kinabukasan. Huy, Get back and stay woke, este work pala. 23|ADVO MAG OPINION
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Um-Aries ka r'yan Sur-pisces! Siguraduhing mag-isa at naka-lock sa k’warto kapag ‘Di maabot ng algorithm kung paano at saang lupalop papasok na sa own-line na kalas-e, hindi para itago ang ng Earth nakuha ang directions sa online clash. If ‘di-kaaya-ayang mga ritwal mo sa buhay, kun’di upang mag-push to ask, “check your el-em-esh” na may maka-ew-as sa umaaligid na epal-ogs. Hindi lang kasi matching taas ng kilay and crack ng voice–kakatapos lang sa heben nagkaka-minus points, kay prof-hiss-or din na sigurong mag-perform sa kanilang mala-circus na concert. umay na kay bunsong kumekendeng sa likod mo at kay ti-hiya-hing sinasapawan ang teen-ig mo tuwing rest-i-tation. Lucky costume: clown Lucky Settings: Change Meet background Halaquarius Tauru tauru po? Isang malaking scam ang mga limang minutong pagpikit sa Ang pagu-uberthinking patungkol sa mga grado mo ay google meet! Mag-ingat sa mga ganitong linyahan dahil for sure, sadyang normal sa kolehiyo. Kung naka-flat ka na UwU-no, mapapa-”tauru po?” ka na lang pagdilat mo. Lahat nakaalis na cong-wats sa’yo! Ang pangawap mo ay isa nang pangarap! at ikaw na lang natira. Hanggang sa klase, iniiwan ka pa din? Kung naka-flat ka naman na 5.00, isang malaking pagbati sa’yo sapagkat grad-waition is waiving, but who you muna. Lucky Lyrics: Pano naman ako? Lucky number: 1 Gemin-ute to win it Kape-corn Gabundok na mga gawain ang iyong aakyatin dahil sinumpong Pinaaalalahanan na bawas-bawasan ang paglagok ng kape na naman ang pro-face-sour ninyong may mapanakal na mga hangga’t marami ka pang pangarap. Hinay-hinay lang at ‘wag kwin-tasks. Ngunit, ‘wag kang mag-alala dahil sasapian ka nang hintaying kabugin pa ng matinding palpitations ang hagupit ng patron saint ng mga keyboard warrior at matatapos mo ng coronavirus. Bagaman kailangan para hindi magpadala sa isang upuan ang mahigit bente mong ugh-sighn-ments sa kakaibang hatak na dala ng mga kakaantalks sa online due. Ang espiritu ng stable internet connection ay sumasaiyo. meeting, maghilamos ka na lang muna ng malamig na tubig. Lucky prayer: Angelost Lucky Number: 3-in-1 Can-cervative pa rin? Sagi-curious pa rin Let your colors shine nga naman, mga mars! Pero Gamit ang laptop at Wi-Fi na nakahiga pa sa loob mag-ingat-ingat pa rin dahil maraming matang hanggang ng sariling bedroom, habang sabay na nakita ang ngayo’y can-cervative pa rin. Tipong kahit wala namang nakakalokang ngiti ng numbers sa situation fees. Sagi-curious cognitive effects ang ating hair dye, talagang pupunahin kung bakit ang expensive na magstay sa birth-ritual ceremony pa rin. Don’t worry, mga tita. Hindi naman na-aabsorb ng kahit nasa hidden sanctuary. No physical entry pero the anit namin ang bleach! Stay colorful, mga sisiw sa fiesta! bigger, the better ba ang peg for situation fees? Juice ko! Lucky number: 7 Lucky question: 2020, too? Leo-ng Leo na ako! Sus-scorpio Nakaka-lost nga talaga for a moment ang tasks from Ma’am Sa dinami-dami ng mga mabuting ginawa mo sa mundong and Sir na subject for misplacement. Leo-ng leo na ang ibabaw, hindi pa rin nila gusto ibigay sa’yo ang matagal mo haggardo versoza’ng students of where to search, how to nang inaasam sa buong buhay—academe bwek.Grabe align– kung saan ba talaga ilulugar ang tasks at a-sigh-ments. talaga ang mga makapangYARIhan, ang espesyal niyo naman! Isang hooray nga from all the avid vloggers-in-the-making! Lucky day: weakEND. Lucky game: Spin-the-wheel Virghosted Pambi-libra Muli na namang susubukin ang iyong pasensya ng Sa sobrang sipag mong mag-aral para sa kinabukasan mo mga magagaling mong kagrupokpok na talento yata at ng buong salinlahi, hindi mo inasahan na bigla na lang ang pag-seenzone at pag-inboxzone sa‘yo sa tuwing mapapadoble ang amount ng iyong tuition! Grabe naman sisibol ang panibagong gawain sa hell-em-ish. iyown. E-bwaman mo ay tunay at ubod na pagkagaling- Inaabisuhang patibayin ang mga s-final cords dahil hindi ka galing; ipagpatuloy pa para sa ikauunlad ng lahat! Paano lang sa eMeL magbubuhat ng mga canzer-o na mga kakampi. mo kaya maibabalanse ang pag-aaral at natitirang balance? Lucky dating app: Tin-dear Charo Lucky words: unexpected sheets
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NEWS 28 UB COENG’G Licensure Exams 32 UB’s 2nd Year of Online Education 37 Dr. Gladiola A. Eje-Dimaculangan 38 Tracing App for Batangueños 45 COVID-19 Vax Rollout
UB CoEng’g soars in licensure exams; Dinglasan, Balani earn top spots Text | Jane Therese Banaag & Nixon De Villa Photo | Jan Marco Balani, Brian Dinglasan, & Rappler University of Batangas (UB) College of Engineering (CoEng’g) proved its renowned tenacity in its field of expertise as it posted 38 registered engineers in the Mechanical Engineering (ME) Licensure Examination and 77 new engineers in the Electrical “Hindi biro ang pinagdaananEngineering (EE) Licensure Examination, held Aug. 15-16 and Sept. 5-6, respectively. Beyond limits Securing the ninth spot in the list of ME licensure examinations topnotchers with an 88.05% rating, Engr. Brian Dominick Dinglasan was able to reap success not only for himself but namin ngayong pandemya. also for UB CoEng’g who welcomed another ME topnotcher for Kung kaya ang pagiging the third straight year. topnotcher ko ay tagumpay rin ng aking batchmates, “Actually po, ‘yun pong board exam ng Mechanical ay maliit po ang chance matuloy kasi pandemic nga po so ‘di po namin naseryoso ang pagre-review. ‘Di na po ako nag-expect na magto-topnotcher kasi alam ko na po na mababa score ko. Na-surprise na lang po ako na may nag-chat sa aking top daw po ako. I feel blessed and thankful po nung time na ‘yun,” instructors, at lalo’t higit ng expressed Engr. Dinglasan. aking pamilya. Despite the overwhelming triumph of the newly registered mechanical engineer, being a topnotcher or even taking the board exams was no easy task considering all the rescheduled examinations, additional health requirements, and quarantine limitations in line with the COVID-19 pandemic. 28 | ADVO MAG NEWS
“May times po na we are asking ourselves why we are still country, where 247 only of those names made it to the list of reviewing even though may doubt na hindi matutuloy ang successful examinees. boards. Then ‘yun pa pala pong bayad sa mga review center iniisip saan kukuha kasi medyo mahal po siya kahit online “Ang motivation ko po that time is my family. Gusto ko lang naman po ‘yung review. Learning face-to-face is much po makatulong sa aking magulang at masuklian kanilang easier than watching pre-recorded videos online,” narrated paghihirap kasi ‘di naman po kami mayaman. Lagi pa nga po the 2021 ME ninth licensure exam placer. akong late mag-enroll dati. Sinabi ko na lang po sa sarili ko na magiging engineer ako at ibabalik ko kung ano naitulong With these pressing circumstances, the 22-year-old sa akin ng aking magulang,” shared the newly licensed UBian mechanical engineer did not expect to be among the highest engineer. placers of the examination taken by 621 students around the “May graduates rin na hindi nakapag-take sapagkat pinili Electrifying success nilang ipagpaliban muna ang lisensya kapalit ng trabaho. Days before the exam, sinubok kami ng mahigpit na requirements, UB seized double victory at the September 2021 Electrical kaya hindi nakapag-take ang ilan sa amin. Ngunit bilang kami Engineer Licensure Examination by reigning as the second ay binigyan ng pagkakataon, ginawan namin ng paraan na top performing school and securing a top notch spot with Engr. magawa ang lahat ng makakaya upang bigyan ng hustisya Jan Marco G. Balani, ranking eighth among 2,590 takers with ang chance na nakuha namin,” shared Engr. Balani. an 89.25% rating. UB registered 77 new electrical engineers out of 84 “Hindi biro ang pinagdaanan namin ngayong pandemya. examinees, thus giving the institution a 91.67% passing rate, Nariyan ang delay sa aming review classes, pagkansela second only to Pangasinan State University - Urdaneta’s sa schedule ng board exam, paghihigpit sa requirements 96.15% where 50 out of 52 takers passed. upang makapag-take, at marami pang iba. Kung kaya ang pagiging topnotcher ko ay tagumpay rin ng aking batchmates, “During preparation, pinaka-nahirapan ako sa pagsasaulo instructors, at lalo’t higit ng aking pamilya,” expressed the ng terminologies. Dahil dito, ginawan ko ng paraan na maging newly-registered electrical engineer. consistent ‘yung pag-aaral ko ng terms, tulad ng paulit ulit na pagbabasa hanggang sa magkaroon ng retention sa aking Due to the pandemic, the exam was rescheduled from April utak. Sa madaling salita, kailangan nating gumawa ng mga 20 and 21 to September 5 and 6 but was held as planned in bagay na hindi pangkaraniwan sa atin, upang makakuha tayo Philippine Regulation Commission (PRC) testing centers at ng magandang resulta,” added the topnotcher. the National Capital Region (NCR), Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Legaspi, Lucena, Pagadian, Rosales, hands-on sa mga estudyante. They really care, hindi lang Tacloban, Tuguegarao, and Zamboanga. sa academic status mo, kundi pati na rin sa totoong buhay. Life lessons ang ibinibigay nila para sa engineering students. Growing legacies Kung kaya, nagiging mas motivated kami to do our best. Hinubog nila ang character at skills ko,” ended the engineer. With these major victories, the UB College of Engineering continues to live up to its Home of the Champions tagline even against adverse circumstances through a focus on their craft, passion for the field, and a holistic approach to seizing success while they look back to their humble beginnings. “Lamang ang UB dahil meron tayong instructors na very 29|ADVO MAG NEWS
uB kicks Text | Arielle Dane Adan off newest Photo | UB FB Page & San Perez jingle for its 75th Founding Anniversary “We never stop with our quest, we never settle for less.” magandang nagawa sa’ting school,” expressed RC Guillo, As the University of Batangas (UB) hits another milestone vocalist and guitarist of UB Jazz Band. with its 75th Founding Anniversary, the educational institution officially launched its newest jingle and dropped the Furthermore, the full version of the jingle was first played accompanying music video via UB Facebook Page, Aug. 16. simultaneously on-air over UB’s partner radio stations, Air1 Titled “Rise and Stride”, Jaryl Renzo Decilos, UBBC 91.9 FM and 99.1 Spirit FM, as part of its initiative to cross the Junior Multimedia Designer and a UB graduate of AB digital divide all through the years. Communications, composed the jingle, arranged by Harvey Arce, and later performed by UB Jazz Band. “Ang goal nito is to inspire everyone to move forward. Do not stop. UB will be here for you to help you achieve your dreams. If you have something that you believe in, hold onto it tightly. Who knows? Maybe, it will be turned into reality,” explained Decilos during the social media launch. Moreover, the said title came from a line in the Hymn lyrics of the university and the theme of the event that recalled the university’s establishment in 1946, during the aftermath of World War II, as a response to the growing educational needs of Batangueños, and thus playing a central role in writing the university’s third jingle. “My inspiration in writing this jingle is UB itself. I looked into its history, nagsimula lang siya sa plano na pagtuturo sa kabataan hanggang sa naging isa sa fastest growing universities dito sa Batangas. If you will look into the lyrics, makikita rin dito kung ano ‘yung ginagawa ng university to rise and stride upon every situation it faces,” stated Decilos. Earlier in February, a snippet of the jingle was already heard in the joint performance of UB Jazz Band and UB Dance Company during the Virtual Cultural Show, one of the founding anniversary’s peak events. “S’yempre, blessing ito sa akin, sa amin, dahil nabigyan kami ng pagkakataon na makagawa ng musika para sa school natin. Hindi ko rin inaasahan na ako ‘yung kakanta sa UB jingle. So, gusto ko rin masabi na mayroon na akong 30 | ADVO MAG NEWS
UBSG-CAS SPEARHEADS LEADERSHIP TRAINING ‘21 Text | Carlos Kim Raphael Perez Photo | UBSG CAS FB Page With the aim to promote camaraderie and awareness of responsibility, the University of Batangas Student Government- College of Arts and Sciences (UBSG-CAS) conducted its 2021 Commitment and Service Leadership Training among CAS organization councils via Zoom Meetings, Oct. 3. A pre-recorded address by Vice President Leni Robredo emphasized the importance of youth leadership in extraordinary times and the value of helping those who are in need. VP Robredo, also a presidential candidate for the 2022 Philippine elections, reiterated that communities in the country should be organized, educated, and empowered. “The success indicator of the event shall be viewed on the number of actual attendees and participants and on how the leaders will be more productive in leading their respective members from their organization as a response to the call,” shared Mr. Daniel D. Catempo, UBSG-CAS Student Parliament Minority Floor Leader. Five teams were formed among organizations under the department which were held throughout the whole program with flagship names such Tropang Wonderpets, Fourlas ng Silangan, Renelista, Seek, and Voltes V, respectively. In a game, participating teams answered questions concerning sports, love, entertainment, history, and food; the winning prize of Cold Spanish Vanilla Barako from the Batangas City-based Kalye Barako was eventually given to the Renelista team. On the other hand, participants were tasked to formulate proposed projects beneficial for the CAS and UBian communities. The team members explained and presented their project title, description, beneficiaries, objectives, planned activities, and success indicators. “We expect that we have produced well-trained leaders that have passion to serve and commitment to the people that we may be able to contribute to the society,” ended Catempo. UB OFFERS I-STUDY THRU LANDBANK INC. Text | Karl Justine Montejo Study Now, Pay Later. Photo | viper.ph In order to assist students financially while studying through the granting of monetary aid to UBians for their educational expenses, the University of Batangas (UB) partners with the Land Bank of the Philippines through a student loan program, Aug. 11. UBians of legal age can now apply for Landbank Interim Student Loan for Tuitions towards Upliftment of Education for the Development of the Youth (I-STUDY) Lending Program, a program created to help students cover their tuition and other school fees. Requirements for eligibility are applied and there is limited availability of the program for those students without any scholarship grants and whose families have repayment capacity and good credit standing. With a total amount of 1.5 B credit fund, Landbank can grant eligible students and parents the chance to loan a two-semester or one academic year’s worth of tuition, amounting up to P150,000 but will not exceed the P300,000 mark. Furthermore, Landbank clarifies that this program will be available only for the academic year 2020-2021. However, loans availed can be paid within three years for a fixed 5% interest per annum with a year of grace period for the principal amount. 31|ADVO MAG NEWS
Striving, Adapting and continuously improving: on ub’s second year of delivering online education Text | Arielle Dane Adan Photo | Joviallyn Belegal “Even if the university managed to appropriate the latest earmarks of technology to retain its nature of education, we cannot discredit the cracks within this system.” Thus stated Joland Landicho, Junior Institute of Young Accountants-UBBC President, as he pertains to the competence shown by the University of Batangas (UB) in the past two years as the institution caters to the educational needs of its student population, which currently comprises about 14,000 enrollees amid the health and economic crises brought about by the pandemic. Online transition Driven by the integration of the UBian Learning Management for disseminating information, student-professor accessibility, System (LMS), an online education hub was launched in the and sometimes, as a means to share educational drills,” curriculum in 2017. UB remained functional throughout the stated Landicho. pandemic, unlike most educational institutions in the province which had to take an extended break before resuming Nonetheless, it is still not free from technical issues operations. triggered by the complex framework of UB’s adopted learning avenues as UBians reported that the eBrahman site frequently The UBian LMS has been utilized pre-pandemic to conduct collapses during the viewing of grades, while the LMS causes blended learning to assist teachers in delivering their lessons. dismay among students when correct answers are marked It served as a training ground for the faculty when disaster wrong, and case-sensitive items are left overlooked due to its first struck during the Taal Volcano eruption, followed by the stringent pattern for checking quizzes or exams. COVID-19 outbreak in March 2020, prompting the complete shift towards distance learning. “As a third-year student who both experienced UB’s face- to-face and online classes, the most genuine estimate I could “Our university has proved to be an exceptional pioneer probably give about its current quality of education is that it’s regardless of the intricacies of online learning. We’ve shown beyond average, despite not being the finest,” commented flexibility by even tapping an aggrandized use of social media Landicho. 32 | ADVO MAG NEWS
Bridging gaps academic breaks had been raised over the period, but only a few requests were granted. Although the university was technologically-prepared for the transition, most students, however, were not geared However, each department still implemented some with adequate resources to keep pace with the new normal allowances, like longer deadlines, improved asynchronous education. classes, and larger time frames for accessing exams, which had gone stricter as months progressed when educators “One of the challenges I’ve encountered with this setup is perceived that students are getting accustomed to the system. the lack of mobile gadgets to use as a new learning platform. At first, I just tried to survive with what I had. Then I resorted “Hearing that, we were all shocked and concerned because to earning money by selling food online so that I could buy a not all students have multiple gadgets to use, it raises the gadget I could use,” shared Cris Joshua De Leon, BS Civil question of how we will accomplish it. But honestly, it is Engineering-III. necessary so that it will prevent any conflicts like cheating,” reflected De Leon when asked about the on-cam policy of the Furthermore, these hindrances made it harder for students College of Engineering during online exams. to comply with the growing workload, time-constrained tasks and required attendance in online class meetings. In disaster-proof education as part of its commitment to better consequence, petitions for postponement of exams and serve its stakeholders. Collective effort As recognition for its efforts to transform the learning delivery, UB was even appointed by the Commission on Despite the setbacks, UB, with its offices and student Higher Education (CHED) to train other higher educational organizations, carried on innovating ways to put virtual institutions (HEIs) in CALABARZON and make them qualified learning on a par with face-to-face setup, wherein traditional to teach in a flexible online environment. programs and competitions like commencement exercises, sports fests, and seminars were held virtually. In addition, throughout the past two years, the university reaped the 3rd highest spot in the country for having 32 “Our professors have adopted creative approaches for accredited programs from the Philippine Association of teaching as much as they’ve employed a more perceptive Colleges and Universities Commission on Accreditation consideration for the varying plights of students as well. These (PACUCOA) and being the 41st most popular university in the claims are testified by our undeterred upper hand during board Philippines, according to UniRank. examinations and online competitions,” attested Landicho. “I think our best move would be advocating for ligtas na balik Moreover, the Academic Affairs, consisting of five eskwela instead. Academic appetite becomes impractical if committees, established the University of Batangas’ Flexible the university will risk it at the expense of people’s safety and Enhancement in Educational Learning System (UB FEELS), health. More than that, the economic capacities of our fellow along with a series of learning continuity plans to ensure a UBians should also be noted. If not, it will be a blatant refusal to campaign for wanting no student to be left behind,” ended The next stage Landicho. Aside from past local government unit (LGU) inspections, UB also coordinated with the Batangas City Health Office (CHO) in vaccinating UBians against coronavirus, with some departments performing surveys among students regarding their vaccination status and readiness for the possible resumption of face-to-face classes. 33|ADVO MAG NEWS
UB CAPO receives DOLE Bayanihan Service Awards Text | Princess Allyssa Plotado Photo | UB Website & Mr. Vincent Alcantara Committed to providing support and resources, the External Programs Officer (SAEP). University of Batangas Community Relations, Alumni and UB-CAPO also initiated the creation of the online Placement Office (UB-CAPO) earns Department of Labor and Employment’s (DOLE) Bayanihan Service Award (Job employment toolkit for the graduating students wherein they Placement Category) during the recently concluded National can access resource materials as far as career is concerned. Public Employment Service Office (PESO) Congress, Sept. It includes some readings like Anti-Illegal Recruitment, Labor 23-24. Education, Resume Writing, Interview Techniques, Labor Market Information, and Work Ethics. The said award replaced the Search of Best PESO Awards for 2020 that aims to give special recognition to PESOs who Additionally, UB-CAPO, in partnership with local companies exemplify innovation, humanitarian services, and resilience with the IT Department, created a software application for amid one of the most challenging years of the country. the conduct of a virtual Local Recruitment Activity and a Job Fair to let the UB graduates connect with multiple employers Anyone who had exceptional contributions resulting in without leaving their homes. the acquisition of quality and decent employment of their respective constituents can apply to the said award, following “Through this initiated project, we believe we can help the initiatives during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic from our unemployed graduates to find jobs at the comfort of March to December 2020 as stipulated in the Search for Best their homes even if there is a pandemic. Our office is one PESO Manual. with the government in fighting the spread of the COVID-19 disease, henceforth implementing this innovative method “Executing our placement programs during the pandemic is of employment facilitation service to its clientele might help hard. We immediately shifted gears for the continuous delivery alleviate the increasing unemployment rate and the economic of our services online. Indeed, innovation thrives during this crisis in the country,” ended Mr. Alcantara. time of crisis”, said Vincent Alcantara, Student Affairs and 34 | ADVO MAG NEWS
THESIS Carrying out the University’s mission of shaping globally- DEFENDED: competitive students, Ross Albert M. Delgado, Bachelor of UB secures Physical Education-IV, reaps the Best Oral Presentation award productivity for student category on a thesis entitled, “Confirmatory Factor title, bags Analysis of the Physical Literacy and Sports Competency of awards on Young eSports Players” during the 9th International Conference int’l forum on Multidisciplinary Research held via Zoom, Aug. 25-27. Text | Angel Joy Liwag TACKLING PHYSICAL LITERACY Photo | Philippine Association of Institutions for Research, Inc. With the aim to explore the changes in the physicality of gamers participating in eSports, Delgado together with his co-author, Sandy D. Colot, Bachelor of Physical Education-IV tackled the tactical, technical, physical, social skills, and media literacy of their respondents who have been engaged in eSports. “Since Physical Education is not a well-known field compared to Science and Mathematics, kaunti lang din ‘yung mga research tungkol dito lalo na sa Physical Literacy na kung saan ito ‘yung bumubuo sa physicality ng isang tao. In the end, naging isang proposed guideline s’ya on physical literacy and sport competencies among eSport players,“ shared Delgado. Delgado also recalled how they encountered some problems during the conduct of their study, as they had to collect responses from 3000 eSports players all over the country. “Naka-base talaga itong aming thesis sa statistics since confirmatory factor analysis s’ya so tinitingnan ang relationships ng factors na nakasalalay sa research pero mixed method pa rin s’ya composed of quantitative and qualitative instruments with over 3, 000 survey respondents for the study,” furthered Delgado. Research-driven environment minsan ng takot kaya hindi natin nasusubok ‘yung mga ganitong bagay,” added Delgado. Themed “Transforming Society Through Research”, the aforementioned international forum organized by the Among UBBC faculty who presented their thesis in the Association of Scholarly Editors and the Philippine Association said forum as well are Mrs. Teresita O. Pante, Dr. Elizabeth of Institutions for Research, also hailed the University of Socorro P. Carandang, and Dr. Romell A. Ramos, with their Batangas with the Conference Research Productivity Award. thesis entitled, “Learner Engagement and Satisfaction in the Online Mathematics Courses: The Experience of a Private “Naging mas insightful itong conference dahil hindi lang Philippine University,” which garnered the Best Full Paper estudyante at guro ang lumahok, kundi mga universities (sic) award for the faculty category. na nag-represent ng kani-kanilang field. Sobrang nakaka- proud sa part kong student na nakikisabay sa mga degree “Though mahirap talaga ang thesis, I just want everyone to holder at doon ko na-realize na nadadala lang talaga tayo know na malaki ang ambag nito sa lipunan at I am hoping na magkaroon ng mas inclusive na discussion about research lalo Globally competitive na sa pagm-maximize ng technology para hindi ito nakaka- drain dahil para lang din itong pagbubuo ng isang kwento at Meanwhile, Rose Ann B. Arias, Bachelor of Secondary hindi lamang basta isang copy-paste method mula sa mga Education-Social Studies Major-IV, was also allowed to naunang resources,” ended Delgado.“Though mahirap talaga present at the conference with her thesis entitled, “Influence of ang thesis, I just want everyone to know na malaki ang ambag Social Media in Shaping the Adolescents’ Political Awareness, nito sa lipunan at I am hoping na magkaroon ng mas inclusive Participation, and Activism”. na discussion about research lalo na sa pagm-maximize ng technology para hindi ito nakaka-drain dahil para lang din itong Alongside the University, the conference presenters came pagbubuo ng isang kwento at hindi lamang basta copy-paste from state colleges of Northern Iloilo, Aurora, Catanduanes, method mula sa mga naunang resources,” ended Delgado. Cavite, Don Mariano Marcos Memorial in Mid La Union, and Sulu; while private institutions such as New Era University, University of Santo Tomas, Bicol University, University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos, and Lyceum of the Philippines University also presented papers according to their academic field. 35|ADVO MAG NEWS
UB introduces hassle-free online document request site Text | Carlos Kim Raphael Perez Photo | UB FB Page In order to assist students, the University of Batangas (UB) due to implemented community quarantine measures by the generated and installed its modernized method of easing government. document request transactions through an Online Document Request website through the University portal, Oct. 1. “UB made the right decision because there is no need to stand in a long line and consume time waiting when everything Through the website, documents such as certificate of can be done through this site. Future students can benefit grades, transcript records, CAV certification, permit to cross from this site as it will make transactions easier for them,” enroll, certificate of NSTP serial number, a certificate for an ended Sia. internship, and others can be requested. “It is beneficial because as a student, I am still not allowed to go to the campus physically because of protocols, and it is important for me because I use this to request some documents without having to go outside,” stated Maxine Margarette Sia, BS Psychology 2-1 Representative. Requesting a document is possible by visiting the application’s website, and an email from the requested department/office is received concerning the status of the requested document, which will be claimed within 60 days. As the university continues to experience the effects of the global pandemic, online services and transactions for the benefit of the students are being optimized and improved as students continue to learn from spaces of their houses 36 | ADVO MAG NEWS
Dr. Gladiola A. Eje-Dimaculangan secured National IPCAP Governing Council ‘21-24’ Position Text | Clark Alduz Viray Photo | Dr. Gladiola EJE-Dimaculangan As a testament to her leadership skills inside and outside the institution, Doctor Gladiola Eje-Dimaculangan is elected as the Officer for External Affairs of the Integrated Professional Counselors Association of the Philippines (IPCAP) Governing Council for its 2021-2024 term, Aug 25-27. Dr. Eje-Dimaculangan’s selection as the IPCAP’s Officer for External affairs took place during the IPCAP’s 19th National Convention and International Practice Lessons, held via Zoom conference. Themed “It Begins With Us, and Bright, We Stand Out,” the said event aims to highlight the crucial role counselors and mental health professionals play in our society. “I was nominated to run for the National Council. You have to be a registered guidance counselor to be eligible for the nomination and you must be recommended by your institution, in my case, I was recommended by Atty. Jesus V. Mayo, the University Chairman,” explained Dr. Eje-Dimaculangan. Not a new territory While her national election seems challenging at first glance, Dr. Eje-Dimaculangan is already honed to the demands of a national position through her past positions in the same association. “I already served as the Professional Development Officer of IPCAP from 2018-2021 where I handled the lectures being given to our partner institutions and the monitoring of the regional councils. I also served as the Regional secretary of IPCAP IV- A (2015-2017)- that is where my journey in serving IPCAP started.,” shared Dr. Eje Dimaculangan. Dr. Eje-Dimaculangan’s appointment in the National Council entails the responsibilities of facilitating reciprocity concerns, linkages, national and international affiliations, being responsible for community extension programs and other outreach activities of the organization.and acting as the chair of the research and publication committee. “It is truly a humbling experience. I remember, when my term in the regional org ended last 2017, my boss (Atty. Vic) kidded me of stepping up to national level. I automatically corrected his vision, telling him it’s far from my reality. But I guess his encouragement is more powerful than my weak heart that God listened to him in bringing me into this humbling opportunity to serve a wider community,” ended Dr Eje-Dimaculangan. 37|ADVO MAG NEWS
BATANGAS LGU LAUNCHES TRACING APP FOR BATANGUEÑOS Text | Faith Valen Villanueva Photo | batangascity.gov.ph & Sentinel Times Batangas City Local government unit (LGU) launches contract tracing application exclusively for Batangueños as part of preventive measures against the ongoing pandemic phenomena, Sept. 3. Through the right utilization of the said application, the authorities aim to lessen the escalating COVID-19 cases recorded in the city by identifying the patients that will be given proper healthcare and quarantine isolation needed for their fast recovery. “Malaking bagay lalo na ‘pag mamimili kami sa grocery or may kung anong lakad, malaki ang maitutulong sa’min ng app na ito. Siguro dapat na masiguro ‘yung accuracy ng result para maiwasan ang false negative/positive results para sa kaligtasan ng nakararami,” stated Baz Tenorio, 18-year-old COVID-19 survivor. For procedures, individuals who wish to use the software should download the application on their smartphones. The app user needs to register through their mobile devices by filling out the information for easy entrance access to establishments, private and government offices in the city. Moreover, the local government certifies that the personal details noted in the form will be under the City Epidemiological Surveillance Unit (CESU) only for information security purposes and the confidentiality of users of the contract tracing application. “Kung one hundred percent na mapapabilis ang transaksyon sa paglabas at pasok sa mga establishment at magiging naman po ‘yung result na accurate mailalabas sa contract tracing app na ito ay makakatulong siya sa akin, sa pamilya ko at sa atin,” shared Tenorio. 38 | ADVO MAG NEWS
CHED OPENS 2021 To be eligible, applicants must be a Filipino citizen, a SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM graduate of senior high school with a General Weighted Average (GWA) of at least 96% for full scholarships and Text | Nixon De Villa Photo | vismin.ph 93% for half scholarships; should avail only one of CHED’s scholarship or financial assistance programs, and whose As part of its continuous effort to promote accessible families have a combined annual gross income not exceeding education and produce competent professionals, the to 400,000 pesos. Commission on Higher Education (CHED) resumes its scholarship program after a gap year, with applications for CHED scholars are expected to enjoy financial grants incoming college freshmen open from Jul 1 to Aug 15. intended for tuition and other school fees (TOSF), stipend, and book and connectivity allowance, which annually amounts to Due to the threat posed by the pandemic, the application a total of Php 120,000 for those under full PESFA, Php 60,000 process shifted online where applicants are expected to for those under half PESFA, Php 80,000 for those under full upload scanned copies of their required documents to links SSP, and Php 40,000 for those under half SSP. designated per region, with Region IV-A CALABARZON’s dropbox accessible at http://www.chedcalabarzon.com/csp/. Meanwhile, scholars should enroll under one of CHED’s priority courses as listed in CMO No. 05 series of 2019, Among the requirements listed is a certified copy of their and maintain a GWA of at least 85% for full scholars and at high school report card, birth certificate, and proof of income, least 80% for half scholars; failure to comply with these two which will become CHED’s basis in ranking candidates for requirements are valid grounds for termination. the program as no qualifying examination is held to filter thousands of applicants. Under the scholarship, four types of programs are available; full and half Private Education Student Financial Assistance (PESFA) for those enrolled in private Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), and full and half State Scholarship Program (SSP) for those in State and Local Universities and Colleges (SUCs and LUCs), each with corresponding requirements and benefits. FOR EASE OF FIREARMS OWNERSHIP; BCPS INITIATES RESUMPTION OF LTOPF CARAVAN Text | Clark Alduz Viray Photo | batangascity.gov.ph After being halted for more than one year due to the Covid 19 located at Manila, for the aforementioned procedure. pandemic, the annual License to Own and Possess Firearm LTOPF is a requisite for firearms ownership, under Republic (LTOPF) caravan hosted by the Batangas City Police Station (BCPS) returns to Batangas City, August 26–27. Act 10591, also known as The Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act. Around 250 residents partook of the caravan, which is held at Batangas national High School (BANAHIS) and In order to qualify for LTOPF, which has a two year validity made possible by the partnership of BCPS with the local period, one must present the following: neuro- psychiatric government, the Chinese community and Smart. test, police clearance, NSO birth certificate, drug test at gun safety certificate, among other requirements. BCPS organized the return of the caravan in order to speed up the process of firearm ownership by both members of the At the conclusion of the caravan, 232 firearms were police force and the civilians, as the applicants are given the temporarily withheld by BCPS from their owners, pending the opportunity to conduct the licensing procedure in their locality. approval of their permits. Before the resumption of the LTOPF caravan, the potential To ensure the safety of the event organizers and the firearms owners had to visit Camp Vicente Lim, which is attendees, BCPS ensure that the health and safety protocols situated at Canlubang Laguna, or Camp Crame, which is against Covid-19 are followed throughout the two day registration event. 39|ADVO MAG NEWS
DESPITE LOW VAXX RATE AMONG STUDES: CHED EYES POSSIBLE F2F CLASSES FOR ALL HEIS BY JAN Text | Clark Alduz Viray Photo | Rappler & Daily Tribune According to the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) chairman, Prospero De Vera III, the institution is investigating the possibility of conducting limited and restricted face-to-face classes for all degree programs in areas where there is low prevalence of COVID-19, by the first quarter of 2022, Oct. 22. Impractical, as of the moment LGU partnerships Although CHEd’s announcement was met with approval To ensure that the transition back to the face-to-face by most Filipinos, especially the students, De Vera himself learning setup will be effective, De Vera stated that CHEd clarified that the proposed resumption of face-to-face classes will also coordinate with the local governments of key low risk is not yet feasible as of the moment due to several factors, areas. most notably, the country’s low vaccination rate. Specifically, CHEd seeks to investigate if the local As of October 22, only 27 percent of Filipino students government units (LGUs) are capable of providing the are vaccinated, which puts the plan to resume face-to-face necessary transportation for the students as they commute classes into jeopardy, as doing so will put the students and from their residences to their schools, while still adhering to their families at risk. the implemented health protocols in the country. Aside from the students, the vaccination rates of school De Vera also encourages the vaccination of jeepney and faculties and local residents of projected areas where the motorcycle drivers in order for the face-to-face classes limited in person classes will open, are taken into consideration to commence, stressing that not only must the current by the commission, together with the assessed risk of the said vaccination rate of students increase, but the vaccination level areas in terms of COVID-19 prevalence. in the location of the learning institutions must also be high. In answer to this, CHEd has encouraged colleges and state CHEd will also delegate the responsibility for contact tracing universities to keep an inventory of the vaccination status of and quarantining of students to the LGUs, hence they should their faculty and students and submit the said report to CHEd’s be able to provide the needed facilities and equipment when regional offices for monitoring. such cases arise. 40 | ADVO MAG NEWS
Late response? It can be remembered that while the in person classes for medical courses have already commenced as early as January this year, the Philippines, as of late September, has remained as one of the two remaining countries, together with Venezuela, that still hasn’t returned to the traditional classroom setting. In response, CHEd, backed by the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF), urged President Duterte to allow courses falling under the following field to conduct their classes in the face-to- face setting: engineering, maritime, and hotel and restaurant management programs. As a rationale for the proposal, CHEd presented data showing that only a small number of school faculty and students contracted COVID-19 since the resumption of face to face classes for medical courses, which, according to De Vera, is attributed to the strict protocols being implemented at the colleges and state universities in the country. Not mandatory There are almost 200 universities, encompassing 300 degree programs, that are currently allowed to conduct limited face-to-face classes, according to CHEd. Despite this, CHEd clarifies that conducting in person classes is not required, but highly encouraged for Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). For them to be able to conduct restricted face-to-face classes, HEIs must send an application to CHEd and ensure that they will follow the safety protocols being issued by CHEd and Department of Health (DOH). In the meantime CHEd is yet to finish the guidelines for the said proposal by November or December this year. Only after then, will they decide if they will proceed with their plans. 41|ADVO MAG NEWS
AMID AVERAGE VAXX RATE, HESITANCY ANALYSIS ON COVID-19 BOOSTER DRIVE IN PH Text | Angel Joy Liwag Photo | CNN Philippines, Reuters, Devex, & Manila Bulletin 42 | ADVO MAG NEWS
Neither once nor twice, but at least thrice. To combat the emergence of COVID-19 variants, the Department of Health (DOH) approved the recommendation on administering additional vaccine doses, known as ‘booster shots’, while facing the plight to achieve a hundred percent of fully-vaccinated individuals by undergoing vaccine rollout for the general population, and pressing stricter policies against vaccine hesitancy. Three-month rule BS Nursing-I. While several localities have undergone a From the initial interval of 6 months waiting time for the booster shot, the health separate rollout drive for booster shots, some department halved the gap of the required who had planned out for the additional jab interval for the third vaccine shot since experienced interacting with unvaccinated the spread of Delta and Omicron variants and partially-vaccinated individuals in the across Europe, the United States, Africa, vaccination site. and some parts of Asia became a factor in this new rule. “Vaccine is important lalo na sa ganitong panahon, tamaan ka man ng COVID pero “Kung talagang well-informed ang lahat yung pakiramdam mo is parang may flu ka ng tao, hindi mahihirapan ang gobyerno lang unlike sa mga tinatamaan ng COVID na kumbinsihin ang mga taong hindi pa na walang vaccine,” ended Tenorio. nagpapa-bakuna, dahil ito ay sa ikabubuti ng hindi lamang ng mga tao kundi ng mga Prior commitments taong nakapaligid din sa kanila,” stated Mrs. Carla Marie D. Perez, PLDT Batangas Consequently, right after slimming the branch executive. booster gap, the health department also opened its limited additional vaccine drive DOH has approved single doses of Pfizer, for adults that are not eligible for frontliners Sinovac, and AstraZeneca and half the or persons with comorbidities even if its regular dose of a Moderna shot as booster nationwide rollout has not been called. jabs which made available for health workers as priority groups in the country, wherein “Madami akong nakasabay na mga ngayon they can also choose to get jabbed with the pa lang naka-schedule sa second dose same vaccine they took on first or second tapos mayroon ding mga ngayon pa lamang dose which is classified as ‘homologous’ magpapabakuna ng first dose,” shared booster, or ‘heterologous’ booster that is Mrs. Rona Perez, Batangueña housewife. contrary to their former jabs. Since the recommendation of the World Health Organization (WHO) to administer “Ang dapat manaig sa panahong ito ay booster shots has been tackled amid the hindi lamang pansariling opinyon kundi fear of Delta variant spread in the country, dapat iniisip nila na ‘yung single decision the local government units (LGUs) are nila will affect not just your immediate family yet to reach a quarter of fully-vaccinated but the entire society and probably our individuals around their localities. entire nation in the end,” added Mrs. Perez. Not so fast for boosters Variance of policies As the Philippines remains its doors With booster jabs made available to some open on continuous vaccination drives localities, it remains as an additional option for the general public, the possibility for a for several individuals who have completed nationwide rollout for booster shots is still an their required vaccine dosage as the option for many, and more specifically, for government eyes on the stricter approach the fully-vaccinated ones. for unvaccinated Filipinos. While there are ongoing booster shot “Naging madali para sa akin ang initiatives in some localities, it is important naging proseso ng pagpapa-booster shot to note that the slot for the initial completion sapagkat na-handle nang maayos ng aming of a hundred percent vaccinated individuals munisipyo ang mga taong nandoon para sa shall remain to be the topmost priority booster shot,” expressed Angelika Tenorio, around the country. 43|ADVO MAG NEWS
BATS. CITY GOV’T LAUNCHES OSCP ONLINE APPLICATION SYSTEM Text | Angel Joy Liwag Photo | Palakat Batangas City FB page With the aim to speedily generate building and occupancy With the automation of processing building permits permits, a One-Stop-Shop for Construction Permitting and certificates of occupancy, applicants and business (OSCP) Online Application System was launched in establishments residing in Batangas City can safely update Batangas City on Sept. 7. and renew their applications. City Engineer Adela Hernandez noted that the said initiative has been picked up from a 2014 Executive Order, known as Batangas City Building Permit and Occupancy Permit One-Stop-Shop (BPOSS), which streamlined the 20-day processing time of building and occupancy permits. In addition, the city government updated the automated system by adding two departments that are involved in the application process, namely the City Assessor’s Office and City Treasurer’s Office, to mainly handle one-time payments by applicants. Furthermore, simple applications for building and occupancy permits only range to five days transactions, while complex transactions are being processed for seven days, and highly-technical transactions are usually generated until 21 days. Consequently, by visiting the official website of the city government at www.batangascity.gov.ph/web/business/ downloadable-forms, a unified application form that contains the necessary information for requesting such building and occupancy permits can be navigated by users. COMELEC IMPLEMENTS ONE MONTH EXTENSION FOR VOTERS REGISTRATION Text|ClarkAlduzViray Photo | Francis Aaron Magpile Despite its prior rejection of the proposal, The Commission on Election (Comelec) approved the moving of the initial deadline for voters registration from September 30 to the end of October, Sept. 29. Initially, Comelec set a one week extension, following the filing of certificates of candidacies on October 1 to 8, but the notion was rejected by lawmakers who cited the delays and challenges caused by the ongoing pandemic to the registration of voters as a reason for the proposed extension. Despite these, the Comelec remained firm on their stand, as according to them, the extension will lead to operational problems on their part. But following the pressure from the congress, who fast tracked a bill in order to facilitate the registration extension, Comelec agreed on the proposal, citing public outcry as their main reason for the extension. According to the resolution made by Comelec, the extension is set from October 9 to 30, from 8 A.M to 5.PM, except on the last day. With the said extension, Comelec eyes an increase in the number of voters that will cast their votes for the incoming 2022 national polls. Aside from registering, voters may avail of other services such as changing of precincts, correction of data entries and changing of their voting status. On the other hand, the registration for overseas voters is extended from October 1 to 14. 44 | ADVO MAG NEWS
DOH OKS COVID-19 VAX ROLLOUT Text | Carlos Kim Raphael Perez Photo | Gerard Zairus Gupit Since the onset of PH COVID-19 vaccination last March, Department of Health (DOH) Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire officially declared that the Philippines has started administering COVID-19 vaccines to the general population, Oct. 11. To conduct the said rollout effectively, the country needed to meet the appropriate vaccine supply, which had been approved by the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging and Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) last Sept. 30. Moreover, Vergeire emphasized that people from the program category of A2-A3 priority groups, consisting of senior citizens and persons with comorbidities, should be prioritized by local government units (LGUs) administering immunization programs as people from the said groups are at risk of experiencing severe COVID-19 symptoms. “This will help to strengthen the health protection for the people. It is important to include everyone for our safety and to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus,” stated Ms. Frances Rachel Cantre, BS Nursing-I. With more than 46,673,491 doses administered, 23.1-million Filipinos are now fully vaccinated against COVID-19, using currently administered vaccine brands such as Sinovac, AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Moderna, Sputnik V, Johnson & Johnson, and Sinopharm. “All I can say is that you should not be afraid of the vaccine. This was done to strengthen our resistance against the virus we are currently facing. After all, the virus does not pick and choose who it affects. As a result, a general vaccine is a great notion for everyone’s protection,” ended Cantre. 45|ADVO MAG NEWS
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FEATURES & CULTURES 48 Sugar Babies 58 Nas Daily 61 #Tumindig 64 Kalye Barako 76 Taal’s Heritage Town
The Bittersweet Lives of $UGAR BABIES Text | Arielle Dane Adan Photo | Gerard Zairus Gupit & New York Post “Good evening, I am a college student who needs financial help right now for my tuition/enrollment TODAY. I am in need of 65k, and I’m selling n*des. I hope you guys help me. Hmu (hit me up) and drop your offers.” That was just one of the startling advertisements posted under a public forum dedicated to people who are seeking sugar relationships. With more Filipinos sinking into poverty day by day, it might seem like a typical but insincere quip on social media. Although this time, it’s not a joke, nor a prank, a fragment of reality―mirrored on the dark corners of the web. 48 | ADVO MAG CULTURES
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