DIASPORA: The Westernian Advocate Magazine

ARTISTS’ PAGE 151 Paranoia 153 Schizophrenia 155 Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy 157 Apotemnophilia 159 Anxiety



Paranoia Angelo Mendenilla 151|ADVO MAG ARTISTS’ PAGE



Schizophrenia Erwin Tiberio 153|ADVO MAG ARTISTS’ PAGE



Munchausen syndrome by proxy M arion M acatangay 155|ADVO MAG ARTISTS’ PAGE



Apotemnophilia Israel M artin de Chavez 157|ADVO MAG ARTISTS’ PAGE



Anxiety Clark Alduz Viray 159|ADVO MAG ARTISTS’ PAGE

ShiCftoiOnngqbuFseteraaincrgslesitnhtthehrePuaNCnedywcelminNgico’srm: S UB Taekwondo Pushes Ranks Up; Roundhouse Kicks for 6 Meals

SPORTS 162 Where do dark horses go? 163 Match Point Countdown 169 ADVO Sports Awards 178 Cycling 188 PBA PH Cup ‘21

WHERE DO DARK HORSES GO? As the result of the ongoing global pandemic, the sports pandemic on the court, leading them to go through an uphill landscape has faced an unusual time-out resulting in a loss battle to seek and complete the roster for this year’s season. of its luster—far from the expected crowns and bacon that the student-athlete could have brought back home.  As per the Team captain of UB Checkmate, David Carlo Cabral, when asked about the struggles the teams have Given the said circumstance, it has brought the University’s been facing during the pandemic, Cabral stated that the plight of keeping the sports teams harbored and secured with lack of players and the difficulties to recruit online have been the halt of opportunities offered, on-and-off virtual training, knocking them off on board. and unattainable recruitment for the rosters to complete. With more veterans dethroning their positions, the bench Despite that, the University of Batangas (UB) Sports remained empty, waiting for the newcomers to claim the seats teams have somehow participated and earned new titles and spots. in local and international online bouts, including the 2021 Online Asian Open Taekwondo Poomsae and Speed Kicking As the department was used to their traditional ways Championships which was facilitated in observance with the of recruitment back in the day, it served as a challenge to imposed minimum health standards. convert their usual routine to a new modern-technology based scheme to pitch for university athletes. In addition, one of the alternative ways for university teams to cope up with the effect of the pandemic is to conduct Even during the face-to-face setup, the department has been online training and submission of videos containing recorded having second thoughts of initiating the launch of E-sports workout drills tasked by the Head coaches.  gaming and online sports competitions due to the possible shortage of financial support, clouded by the uncertainty of Through this survival tactic, the teams managed to the possible count of fallout in the field. somehow catch up with their duties as student-athletes to stay fit and maintain their feats gained through the years bolstered But how long will it take for you to be locked up from the by the veterans. And just like the growing dim of spotlights, old habits that did not kick-start change? Are you sure about these aces will take off their jerseys after the final countdown just waiting until further notice and witnessing how history to bid farewell to give way for the rookies to play. keeps repeating itself? The decision is yours to make. Take the chance or leave it that way as it is. But that seems out of the question at present as the teams continuously face the hardships brought by the effect of the Kung nandito ka pa, paki-galaw ng baso. 162 | ADVO MAG SPORTS

MATCH POINT COUNTDOWN “Some endings become better beginnings.” 2021 Online Asian Open Taekwondo Poomsae and Speed I guess I am not the only one who takes time to browse Kicking Championships, UB Volleyball teams, and Brahman memories and reminisce about old stories from a Facebook Cagers’ frontmen reigned in NCAA-S Online bid. notice each day. Time flies so fast. And somewhere along the line, everything has changed, and Amid the hurdles and barriers brought by the pandemic in it seems the world at large has hit a snag. With the absence the field, the sportsmen remain persistent to behold newfound of rasping sounds from the court, the crowd forcefully fading, virtual spots and badges. As these champs go for the online the hustle in the wee hours in the training space hub of the sports system adaptation, so is the unhampered field turnover student-athletes for the time being close down—a season of of veteran athletes. dawns and endings. No one sees the coming of the pandemic and its impact And now it’s about time to claim that I guess I will not be the on the sports sphere. A season of greatness and a hall of only one who will look back at the old stories from a Facebook fame bootup is what we gazed upon, quite the opposite of the notice each day. For I have witnessed an innumerable spirit, unexpected hiatus due to the outbreak’s emergence. A sports endured unforeseen ventures, and plucked up courage in the season no one has thought of. whist of a season of firsts and lasts. Another season to conquer. But unlike the opponent alongside the table, it is an invincible rival yet to be slain. My earnest gratitude to the Sports Department, Mr. With that, student-athletes and coaches were challenged to Christopher Lopez, Mr. Hayi Gonzales, and Mr. Luistro roll with punches and fit in with the virtual clashes and drills Bautro, Coach Josa Luna, Coach Marvin Mercado, Coach needed to carry over the adjourned feat for almost two years. Denver Magtibay, Coach Nelson Del Rosario, Coach Yarie With reduced opportunities, the teams have a mishap Del Mundo, Coach Jopet Movido, Former Asst. Coach timeout catching up with the online activities. Having used to Jeric Magtibay, Coach Arnold Contorno, Asst. Coach Ryan do the outdoor field drills, the teams had to adjust and cope Fernando and Coach Dan Deleniana. with diverse and new ways to alter strategies while mitigating the possible harm and threat of the coronavirus pandemic. To one call away athletes, seniors, and mentors, especially Jerseys are still worn but away from the range of vision. Kuya Angelo Kit Guinhawa, Kuya Bon Kevin Bagon, Kuya In addition, the Sports department has come up to transform Lanz Velasco, and Ate Gaille Sabrina Par, for the all-out their ways and routines through virtual tune-up and online support, learnings, and assistance to reach the goal line in bouts as recovery measures to keep the ball rolling and its the sports section. feat through the years as well. These include UB Football club (UBFC) dubbed as To have a rally of backbone over almost three years, the champions in 1st NCAA South Football Skills Virtual department, coaches, athletes, and mentors may not realize Competition, bronze medalists from UB Taekwondo Team in what a blessing and a sort of a curse of consequences it may have been during these troublesome times. Nonetheless, some endings may not be as good as it is, but one thing’s for sure, even at the edge of the lane circuit, this rookie will still eye for better beginnings. SHARPSHOOTER Faith Valen A. Villanueva, ASSOCIATE EDITOR / SPORTS EDITOR “With the absence of rasping sounds from the court, the crowd forcefully fading, the hustle in the wee hours in the training space hub of the student-athletes for the time being close down—a season of dawns and endings.” 163|ADVO MAG SPORTS

UB Taekwondo pushes ranks up;roundhouse kicks for 6 medals TPehxot t|oF|aPitThAVRaleegnioVnill4aAnuTeaveakwondo FB Live Make way for the great Jins! with powerhead kicks instead of delivering body level kicks as Nothing can stop the University of Batangas (UB) Taekwondo part of a wise tactic mapped out and strategized during the conduct of their training period. squad in making their enemies bow down to their knees, as the team hoarded six medals and grabbed a 5th place spot “The reason why (I focused on head kicks) is that head in the 2021 SMART/MVPSF Online Calabarzon Taekwondo kicks have more points than body level kicks. Kaya ba’t pa ako Inter-School Poomsae & Speedkicking held in PTA – Region magsasayang ng isang sipa na body level lang kung pwede 4A Taekwondo Facebook page, Oct. 16-17. naman itaas pa ng konti para head kick na,” shared Black belter Captain Co. Away from the usual training hall, the UB Taekwondo team has endured more hardships than what they experienced from The athlete wonder from Tayabas, Quezon, has impressed their everyday routine as student-athletes back then. the viewers from the live telecast with surprisingly good control and assassinated combination kicks, including head kicks and In the 2-day and a 6-minute virtual bout, UB Taekwondo solid jumping turning kicks fulfilled in the spirit of the standard Team Captain Pierce Aldwin Co who played as the second criteria of the said online competition. contender on the Senior Advanced Male Bantam category , did not waste a second, releasing head kicks resulting in him “Another tactic that I focused on is the combination of kicks, bagging the first gold medal after posting a final score of 6.700. mas mataas ang percentage ng performance kaysa quantity or dami ng sipa, kaya ‘di ko na inisip kung nakaka-ilang sipa Given a minute to execute each performance, Co proved na ako, basta magaganda combination ng mga sipa ko. that the UB Jins are composed of powerhouse stunners, as Pinagtutuunan ko rin ng pansin ang mga jumping turning kicks, proven by his exemplified agenda to disclose his opponents kasi isa din ito sa criteria na binibigyan ng score na mataas dahil sa difficulty of kicks,” ended Co. 164 | ADVO MAG SPORTS

TEAM EFFORT Complete naman sila sa training and guidance. Ngayon lang medyo mahigpit ako. Before nila i-upload ‘yung videos, Aside from the runaway gold medalist Co, among the UB kailangan muna namin tingnan ng mabuti. Hindi lang isa ‘yung Jins who have twisted and turned the plot finish towards their ibibigay nila, more on 5 best videos nila, then pipili kami,” way are Mark Vincent Arena adding a silver from 6.583 score highlighted Coach Josa. and bronze medal by Bryle Magnaye with 5.850 in the Senior Advance Male Feather-Welter category. Moreover, after the Inter-School Poomsae & Speedkicking clash, the Brahman standouts will work hand-in-hand for “Iba ang training ng Speedkicking and Poomsae. Sa the buildup of their bid in the 2021 SMART/MVPSF Online Speedkicking kasi kailangan din stamina. More on stamina Luzon Inter-School Poomsae & Speedkicking campaigns via training. As part of the training, pinapatakbo ko sila or kung Facebook stream on December 4-5. may available training pool. Sa Poomsae, more on forms siya, power, and execution. Bawal ang absent. May pinagagawa pa “Palagi ko sinasabi sa kanila every training na every din ako aside sa everyday training nila,” stated UB Taekwondo competition ibigay nila ‘yung best nila. Secondary na lang din Head Coach Josa Luna. ‘yung mananalo sila. Gusto kong makilala sila globally and then maka-graduate sila. Gusto ko din na maayos, disiplinado In addition, Israel De Chavez ranked 3rd with 6.067, and at lumaking may takot kay God na kahit may narating na sila Victor Cabacis at 4th spot with 5.867, who both managed to nakaapak pa din sila sa ground. Walang yabang or ere sa rule in the Senior Advance Male Fin-Fly category, while Rubie katawan,” ended Coach Luna. Angela Bautista has notched a bronze medal badge through a 6.642, and Allyssa Esteves as 5th place finisher with 4.383 in the Senior Advance Female category. “Happy ako para sa kanila, though naninibago sila kasi nga online more on sparring kasi sila. Kokonti lang kasi ‘yung nagpo-Poomsae sa kanila. 165|ADVO MAG SPORTS

CHERY TIGGO DETHRONES CREAMLINE; reigns supreme in 1st PVL professional stint Text | Jane Therese Banaag Photo | pvl.ph/gallery With a Cinderella-run finish in a thrilling five-setter match, Chery Tiggo 7 Pro Crossovers (CTC) edged Creamline Cool Smashers (CCS) as Champions in the 2021 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Open Conference, Game 3 of its Best-of-Three Finals held in the PCV Socio-Civic & Cultural Center, Bacarra, Ilocos Norte, Aug. 13. Teaming up for 58 big points, Cherry Tigo’s twin towers and real-life sisters Dindin Santiago-Manabat, together with Conference and Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP), Jaja Santiago, became the Pro Crossovers’ heroes in the entire finals series, adding 32 and 26 points to the scoreboard, respectively. 166 | ADVO MAG SPORTS

Seesaw volley Cherries on top Capturing the first set seemed like a walk in the park for the As the PVL newbies were crowned as the 2021 Open Creamline Cool Smashers, who started strongly, courtesy of Conference’s champions, emotions poured out in the PCV former University of the Philippines (UP) skipper, Diana Mae Center, especially for the Santiago siblings who have been “Tots” Carlos, who dominated the set, winning the long rally eyeing their first championship together since their University with an off-speed attack, 8-12. Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) days with the National University. However, the latter portion of the set became a nailbiter with both teams scoring play after play, keeping the lead at a Aside from the MVP and 2nd Best Middle Blocker in Santiago, minimum of 2 points; but in the end, it was Creamline’s Risa PVL also recognized other individual awardees such as the Sato who drew first blood—pounding the over-received first Best Open Spikers, Alyssa Valdez and Myla Pablo of the ball from the other side, 22-25. Petro Gazz Angels; 1st Best Middle Blocker Marivic Meneses of Petro Gazz; Best Opposite Spiker, Katrina Mae Tolentino of Etching the same story at the start of the second set, the Choco Mucho Flying Titans; Best Setter, Jia Morado; and Morado activated her middle spikers, tossing the majority of Best Libero, Katheen Arado of Petro Gazz, respectively. the passes to Sato and multi-awarded Best Blocker Jeanette Panaga, who both delivered the goods for their team and sustained the big lead at 7-14. To aid on their seven-point deficit, CTC head coach, Aaron Velez, sent substitutions Arrianne Layug, Marian Buitre, and Gyzelle Sy to the taraflex court, but it was no match to the championship experience of their opponents who closed the set at 20-25. Redemption city Behind two sets, the Pro Crossovers did not falter as they took charge of the game when second-stringer turned starter Mylene Paat subscribed points in the scoreboard, together with the main setter, Jasmine Nabor, whose service ace gave her team the lead of the match at 12-6. Although Creamline managed to cut the lead with a series of Valdez attacks, they failed to seal the deal of a 3-0 finals victory as Manabat paved the way towards Chery Tiggo’s final survival, 25-21. Eager to reclaim their title as PVL queens, the pink-shirted volleybelles took advantage of their opponents’ shaky start in the fourth set, but the older Santiago sibling immediately bounced back with an open hit that tied the game at 3-all. With both teams determined to be the gold medalists of PVL’s first professional conference, the latter portion of the set witnessed an exchange of points from both teams. Not until Valdez made a crucial error to tie the match at 18-all and gave the 6-foot-2 Manabat a crucial momentum to force a fifth and deciding set. Do-or-die domination After a lackluster performance compared to her previous outings of 25 points per game in Game 1 and 2 of the finals, the younger Santiago cvame alive early in the fifth set, scoring three straight points off blocks and an attack of an over received Creamline ball, 3-0. Rattled and scrambled by Chery Tiggo’s commanding run, the Cool Smashers could not penetrate the wall provided by the red jerseys and remained pointless after the Valdez spike went straight to the arms of the Conference and Finals MVP, 5-0. Filling in the shoes of a struggling Tots Carlos, Creamline’s former starting opposite hitter Michelle Gumabao, was able to score off the bench with an empathic open hit at 10-5. As if putting an end to the bleeding for her team, who had only been scoring off Chery Tiggo’s errors the entire set. With Valdez still fighting for her team’s survival for another championship, their efforts remained useless to the gritty Crossovers, who never looked back and eventually won their first PVL title through a Santiago quick attack, 15-8. 167|ADVO MAG SPORTS

Tell me you’re an Athlete without telling me you’re an Athlete Text | Katherine Nicole Lontok Photo | The Westernian Advocate Photojournalists What are the joys that come with being a student-athlete, you ask? Well, two things make the student-athlete life a living dream: the experiences and the identity. Although being a student-athlete opens a new horizon filled with grandeur and uniqueness, it is not always a walk in the park. The locker room is where we unpack and where we undress—where we remove all the sweat and hardship faced on another day in the field. To replicate this scenario, we sought out some of the pride of the University to tell us their distinctive experiences, phrases, and traits that set them apart from other students. Let’s go, Snoring Champion! “ “Always tulog sa klase pero every moment ng event naman ay worth it. Mapa-training o actual games na-feel ko naman na nag-e-enjoy ako sa ginagawa ko. One event na feel kong worth it is ‘yung (pagka)panalo (namin) ng Championship.” -Jem Carlos de Ocampo, UB Men’s Basketball “ Fly me to the moon and boon “Nagagawan ng opportunity na makapag-exercise kahit saang lugar, gaano man kasikip o kalawak ang lugar. I can say everything really paid off kasi nakakapag-aral ako sa UB dahil sa athletic scholarship, nakakapag-travel and nakakasakay ng eroplano nang libre.” -Pierce Aldwin Co, UB Men’s Taekwondo Anak-san FR FTW ““Kaya kitang sabayan kahit takbuhan pa ‘yan. Kaya naman ‘yung best traits ko ay ‘yung hindi basta-basta sumusuko at nagpapatalo, and as a person pagiging disiplinado at paggalang sa magulang.” -Jerome Mananquil, UB Men’s Football “ Every Breath You Take “Ang laki ng binti ko, at ng braso ko pero ayos lang, sobrang laki naman ng naitulong nito sa pag-develop sa akin physically. Tulad na lamang na ito ay naging tulay sa pagpapatibay ng aking katawan na nakatulong na maibsan ang aking hika dahil sa mga regular exercises.” -Allysa Jane Hernandez, UB Women’s Volleyball Glow up at its finest “ “The training after school and no soft drinks rule helped me because when I was in elementary school, my body was thin and weak, but when I started participating in sports, my body became stronger and healthier.” -Daisy Barte, UB Women’s Table Tennis “ Doraemon: Ang mahiwagang bagahe! “Kapag po ang gamit na bag kahit sa classroom ay sports bag, ‘yun pinaka makikitang pagkakaiba po namin sa iba kasi kadalasan, kapag may training after class, mahirap na uuwi pa para kumuha lang ng mga gamit kaya po pagpapasok palang dala-dala na po lahat mula damit hanggang sa sapatos.” -KC Punzalan, UB Women’s Volleyball Pasensya ka na ha. God bless. “ “Sorry, akin. Bawi ako.” Minsan, kapag nagkakamali kami ng mga teammates ko or masisita kami ng coach namin, nasasabi naming “sorry akin, bawi ako” pero inaaral naman namin ‘yung naging mali namin, tapos apply namin sa next game. -Erroll Miramontes, UB Men’s Football Just like everyone else, they have their own struggles—falling asleep in class, inconsistencies in their performances, and keeping up with strict diets. These struggles, however, do not limit their capabilities or hinder their success but rather, contribute to their character and growth as both students and athletes. 168 | ADVO MAG SPORTS

AWARDSADVO SPORTS Text | Faith Valen Villanueva Photo | The Westernian Advocate Photojournalists Surviving chains of the invincible rival 169|ADVO MAG SPORTS

The march is still on for the Brahman athletes who refused to get abandoned and motionless by the sudden and unanticipated enemy—the ongoing pandemic. The ADVO Sports 2021 Awardees proved that even this ongoing health threat could not block the way of UB Men in the parade of grit and hike for victory. Without further ado, let’s get to know who nailed the new normal setup for this year’s sports season. PIERCE ALDWIN B. CO Captain Amongst Captains UB TAEKWONDO TEAM Aye, aye, Captain!     Through extra motivation and boosted psyche, Pierce Aldwin was named Captain Amongst Captain, after he exhibited balance in captaincy beyond the kicks in virtual bouts despite the time zone difference he experienced throughout the sports year while he was out of the state and in the foreign lands of United Arab Emirates (UAS) during the pandemic period.  MOST-DETERMINED ONLINE TRAINEE OF THE YEAR JOSEN D. BAÑEZ Drawing inspiration to tie an Engineer and champ title to his name, Josen has UB FOOTBALL CLUB kept the ball rolling as he looks towards his goal with a splendid lob of tactic for both boot and academic finish. Hailed as the Most-Determined Online Trainee of the Year, Josen created persistent scores of opportunities and a defensive move against the strike of the unforeseen opponent in the new normal phase. Deserve! Way to go. Go for Goal, Josen! PIERCE ALDWIN B. CO MALE ONLINE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR UB TAEKWONDO TEAM Not just one, but two awards were hoarded by the UB Taekwondo Team Captain Pierce following his impressive power plays and runaway hook kicks caught on cam. Without a doubt, Pierce has obtained the winning mat, but this time as the Male Online Athlete of the Year. And for that, once again, CO-ngratulations! FEMALE ONLINE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR MEA CZARINA F. MENDOZA UB CHECKMATE Immovable attacks and ranks, Mea captures the Female Online Athlete of the Year award after her victorious portrayal of the Queen’s Gambit. In her checkered pattern board, she persistently combined piece progress move and piled up a defense against the gliding threats of her virtual rivals to keep her highness guarded. Well-played, Mea! 170 | ADVO MAG SPORTS

COACH JOSA R. LUNA QUARANTINE COACH OF THE YEAR UB TAEKWONDO TEAM With the waiting period over time, early morning, and late-night hustle for online clash prep, Coach Josa Luna bows down to the saying that the struggle is real. Contending in online duels while an epidemic exists, Coach Josa did not have a second thought of taking risks of twisting turns and relentlessly governed the UB Taekwondo team’s supreme audacity. And as a result of her mastery, the team has ruled in local and even international mat matches amid the health threat disturbance that kicked in. Bow down to the Quarantine Coach! LAST MAN STANDING OF THE YEAR JOHN ANGELO B. INUMERABLE UB FOOTBALL CLUB For three consecutive years, John Angelo Inumerable has buried a goal back in the net for hanging on the gameplay remarks despite the long wait of go signal after a dead-ball in the football pyramid and pandemic foul. In his pocketed golden goals, Inumerable has his hopes high and in control as the man of the match and the last man standing in the team for years.. BENJIE MANANSALA ROOKIE OF THE YEAR UB MEN’S VOLLEYBALL TEAM UB Men’s Volleyball Bud Benjie Manansala may have stemmed from a beginner’s fear, but he would not let it block him from smashing the rush of panic strikes to catch up with his seniors and teammates with his notion in trusting the process of rooms for improvement and make his spotlight in time turnaround. Keep going, Benjie! HARDWORKING STUDENT-ATHLETE OF THE YEAR KATE MARIE A. RAMOS Down to the temporary end line met halfway, Middle Blocker/Open Hitter Kate UB WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL TEAM Marie Ramos have initiated to serve as first-line tower defense to obstruct the enemies threat in attendance. Living proof of an undeniably righteous mentality of Champ and a hardworking Brahman Student-Athlete. UB TAEKWONDO TEAM ONLINE TEAM OF THE YEAR Collecting titles and medals in the closet has been a habit of the Online Team of the Year UB Taekwondo following its immense, towering feats and globally competitive performances in digital-based clashes against elite opponents from neighboring countries. Stay keen, UB Jins! 171|ADVO MAG SPORTS

OF BEATS AND HITS: Text | Clark Alduz Viray Photo | Anne Lorraine Bautista THE STORY OF HOW MUSIC BECAME JOHN ESGUERRA’S SANCTUARY For most of us, quarantine is a period of discovery, as staying home makes us find new hobbies while we get to learn more about ourselves. But what about our beloved student athletes? Away from the clamor of crowds screaming for their victory, one gets to wonder how the university’s heroes are coping with the changes caused by the ongoing pandemic. John Ardel Y. Esguerra, 22, who is currently studying Civil Engineering at University of Batangas, and is a member of UB’s Tennis team, shares how music became his escape in a time when players were confined to the limitations caused by COVID-19. Revisiting baselines Jike from the China National team are at the top of my list, malaking influence sila sa paglalaro ko kasi simula bata pa As Esguerra recalls, it was 2011 when his interest in playing lang ‘nung naglalaro ako ay sila na talaga napapanood ko sa table tennis started. Back then, he was already a basketball YouTube, sila ‘yung dalawang nagpapalitan sa Top 1 in the player, but it was table tennis that really captured his heart. world at that time,” shared Esguerra. “’Nung nagkaroon ng table tennis dito sa aming barangay When he entered college, Esguerra continued playing table halos araw araw na akong naglalaro. Minsan naalala ko tennis, driven by his love for the sport and his aspiration to na pagkagising ko noon ay doon na talaga ako nakastay one day join the ranks of his idols. sa laruan. Ang pahinga ko na lang ay pagkain and minsan naiinis ako dahil kailangan ko pumasok—natural na thinking “Here in the Philippines (my idols are), Alvin Sevilla from ng batang gusto lang maglaro. I guess nakahiligan ko ang UST and Yanyan Lariba from De LaSalle University. For ate (paglalaro ng) table tennis in a accidental way, and destiny na Yanyan, she make a history for Phil. Table Tennis, she was rin siguro,” Esguerra reminisced. the First Filipina to compete in the Olympics and for Alvin, talagang hands down na lang sa taong ‘yun sobrang galing. Esguerra takes pride in his first official match, back in his Nagkaharap kami ‘nung HighSchool and parang hindi man elementary school days. A teacher who saw his potential in lang siya pinagpawisan saken. Nakakainspire lang sila table tennis encouraged Esguerra to enter the match, which panoorin maglaro parang gusto mo lagi silang gayanin and resulted in his first Championship title. talunin,” beamed Esguerra. “Sa athletes I have a lot (of idols), but not all of ‘em are playing table tennis, but if table tennis, Ma Long and Zhang 172 | ADVO MAG SPORTS

Down the line As a result of the ongoing health restrictions, somehow, John had to take a break from playing tennis, but as a testament of his discipline, he continues to improve his physique, in preparation for future matches. “Sobrang nakaapekto (ang pandemic) sa’ken kasi (playing tennis) was my passion and my stress reliever at the same time, siya yung nagiging escape place ko pagkakatapos ng mahabang araw ng klase. And sa pag-co-cope siguro since wala namang laruan ng table tennis dito, I practice myself to run everyday to keep my body in shape. Medyo malayo siya sa table tennis oo, but the conditioning naman ay nandun din kaya I think I can back my playstyle as soon as possible ‘pag meron na ulit akong pwedeng paglaruan,” added Esguerra. It was during this time that Esguerra discovered that aside from being a prolific player, he is also good when it comes to rhythms and beats. “Nakahiligan ko ang music siguro out of curiosity. This pandemic really hit me hard, andami kong gustong gawin outdoors but hindi nga pwede kasi bawal lumabas, and one day napaisip ako kung paano nakakagawa ung mga mainstream artist ng music, and lagi din naman akong nakikinig ng music naisipan kong magtry gumawa. And the first release I did it gave me chills, parang naadik agad ako, parang gusto ko na agad siya sundan,” stated Esguerra. For his influences, Esguerra cites the likes of Post Malone, Travis Scott, Justin Bieber, DaBaby, J. Cole, Drake, Eminem, Gloc 9, Loonie, Kiyo, Al James, and Shantidope among others. Time rally As he explores his interest in music, Josh is accompanied by his family and friends who support his endeavors. This inspires Josh to write more music, which he uploads on his Youtube channel, accompanied by music videos produced with the help of his girlfriend. “I always write about my own experiences kasi mas madaling magsulat kapag naranasan mo na—parang kusa talaga siyang lumalabas. Alam mo ‘yung fulfillment kapag gusto mong sabihin pero di mo magawa kaya idadaan mo na lang sa music and kapag nangyari na ‘yun matutuwa ka na lang kasi ‘yung gusto mong sabihin may tono pa tapos marami pang makakarinig,” expressed Esguerra. According to Josh, each music he makes holds a special place in his heart and it is for his personal fulfillment, that is why, he will continue making music even if his works will not reach the mainstream population. “As of now wala pa naman akong natatanggap na negative comments about my music, but if that time comes I think I will ignore it, first things first hindi naman ako gumawa ng music para magustuhan ng ibang tao that’s bonus for me kung magustuhan nila,” explained Esguerra. Acing his game The future looks promising for Josh Esguerra. As he continues his journey of self discovery, the student athlete promises that he will continue making music, and will share his experiences, both to aspiring artists like him, and to rookie athletes, in the near future. “I want to say that just keep it going, just write music that you want—any genre. Continue to write music and publish it to the public kahit walang nanonood, You can’t please everyone’s attention kaya keep moving forward even if they don’t like your works. Appreciate what you have and be grateful sa mga darating pa,” concluded Esguerra. 173|ADVO MAG SPORTS

ON FISTS, KICKS, AND HEARTS: A celebrated form of martial arts from the east, taekwondo is defined by FAST TALK WITH COACH LUNA its signature variations of combat kicks Text | Nixon De Villa and a discipline anchored to the tenets Photo | The Westernian Advocate Photojournalists of courtesy, ​ integrity, perseverance, self-control, and an indomitable spirit. What others see as a battlefield is home to a strong-willed woman, the backbone of UB’s Taekwondo Team, Coach Josa Luna. With an arsenal of medals and a reputation for excellence, the Brahman sports community is no stranger to her raw talent and mastery in the field—but only a few have met her outside the world of rubber mats and wood boards. To meet the person beneath her black-banded combat gown, ADVO held a fast talk discussion with Coach Luna. Q: Love or Taekwondo? “If nu’ng​highschool or college mo​ako tatanungin​, ang answer ko ​will be taekwondo. Pero​ngayon,​ kaya ko na pagsabayin.​ I’m more mature now.” Q: Early morning or late-night practice? “Late at night, mas masarap magpa-pawis.” Q: How do you motivate your players? “Kinakausap ko sila​p​ ersonally na​may mas igagaling pa sila.​ Prangka​ ako sa kanila, ‘pag mali, mali. Sometimes, after hard training, may​mga perks din​akong rewards sa​kanila​, like kakain kami sa labas​, or swimming, at mag​-​stay kami sa​​hotel or mag​​-travel. Q: Are you the strict type, mother type, or barkada​ type of coach? “Lahat. Strict ako​pagdating sa training, pero​​after or outside ng​ training, motherly or friendly, pero s’yempre may​limitations.” 174 | ADVO MAG SPORTS

Q: What do you say to players after losing a game? “Did you give your one hundred percent? If binigay​mo, for me, panalo​ka, ​then we analyze the game—kung bakit siya natalo, kung ano ‘yung kulang—and train them harder.” Q: Would you rather have a disciplined or talented player? “Both s’yempre​.​” Q: Who is your greatest inspiration? “My daughters, 14 and 9 years old, are both taekwondo players with high blue belts.” Q: If you would be a taekwondo belt, what color would you be? “Black. Even though I’m a woman, I can still kick you.” Q: Would you rather be a taekwondo mat or a practice wood board? “Mat, I can catch you when you fall, protection din para ‘di masaktan.”​ Q: Which would you rather endure, defeats or smelly feet? “Defeats. Mamamatay ako sa amoy ng paa.” ​ Q: Would you rather slip in front of many strangers or in a small room of friends? “Strangers, para mas​exciting.” Q: Would you rather pick up a fallen mouth guard or fallen dentures? “Mouth guard. Wala​kasi akong pustiso,​ ​at ilang beses na rin akong lumimot ng mouthguard ng​ players ko.” ​ Q: What message would you like to give to aspiring martial artists? “Train hard, aim high, and don’t limit yourself.” Q: What legacy do you want to leave? “‘Yung​na-​touch ko​‘yung mga buhay nila​. Sa​pagkakilala ng mga tao​, I am a badass woman with a heart.” Mentor’s Memento Coach Luna proves that combat sports hones fierce athletes as much as it gives rise to mentors whose encouraging words can soothe any bruise and blow. With the sight of numerous trophies and noble achievements, the Brahman Taekwondo faction is more than ready to go further with the guidance of Coach Luna whose name will surely last beyond sharp attacks and strong defenses—for she stands not only as an instructor, but also as a friend, a companion, and a mother. 175|ADVO MAG SPORTS

SECRET STRUGGLES AND INSIDE STORIES: BRAHMANS’ UNFORGETTABLE TRACK CHRONICLES Text | Faith Valen Villanueva Photo | The Westernian Advocate Photojournalists Artwork | Angelo Mendenilla While they are superior on their respective playing fields as compared to other students, athletes are no different from individuals seeking survival tactics in their lives. These bullfighters seem to be numb to the pain and struggles they constantly face—which just proves how they thrive and do their best to carry on against all odds. Seeing these passionate athletes still find humor in potentially anxiety-triggering situations is astounding and impressive. Let’s take a look at some of the most unforgettable memories of our athletes. MISSED TAKE “Noong huling laban para sa Nationals, winning na ako, tapos nagkamali ako ng tira. Doon ako namutla nang maigi kasi sure ako, talo. Kung nakita siguro n’ung kalaban ko, baka nahimatay na ako. Buti na lang hindi.” -Angel Joy Asilo, UB Checkmate KAPAG LUMINGON KA, MAG-DASAL KA “’Yung higaan ko sa dorm, nakaharap sa pintuan, masama daw ‘yon. Tapos every night lagi akong naaalimpungatan. Feel ko laging may nakatingin sa’kin. One time, kinuwento sa’kin ng teammate ko na may nakatayo daw sa kama ko. ‘Di ko alam kung maniniwala ako, pero simula n’un sumipag na ako mag-dasal.” -Carl Joshua Mojares, UB Men’s Volleyball PINAGTAGPO NGUNIT ‘DI TINADHANA “’Yung moment talaga na ‘di ko malilimutan at sobra akong nasaktan is ‘yung time na natanggal ako sa LPU, sobrang down na-down ako noon, na as in ‘di ko alam kung saan ako magsisimula nu’n. Buti nandyan si UB na tinanggap ako nang buong-buo.” -Vincent Palma De Ramos, UB Men’s Basketball 176 | ADVO MAG SPORTS

BUZZER BEATER “Nakakapagpa-trigger sa akin hanggang ngayon ‘yung ‘pag naiisip ko na ‘pag natapos na ‘yung  playing years  ko ng paglalaro  with my teammates and the Brahmans. pero idinadaan ko na lang sa ngiti ‘yun para mawala,  iniisip ko na lang palagi na p’wede ko pa naman silang makalaro or makasama, at s’yempre tuloy-tuloy pa din naman yung basketball career ko para sa pangarap ko.” -Harold De Guzman, UB Men’s Basketball STRENGTH BOOSTER SPOTTED “Isa sa dahilan kung bakit ako kinakabahan ay kapag alam kong magaling ‘yung team na makakalaban namin. Pero habang tumatagal ‘yung game nawawala na ‘yung kaba ko o kaya minsan, ‘pag nanunuod ‘yung girlfriend ko at ‘pag napapatingin ako sa kanya, nawawala na ‘yung kaba ko kasi alam kong may naka-suporta sa’kin.” -Eder John Pauig, UB Men’s Football OPT TO MISSION “’Yung matalo kami, nandoon na lahat, after the game, may parusa. ‘Yung judgement ng mga tao ‘pag natalo kami na, ‘Bakit naman nagpatalo mga ‘yan?’ Pero nagiging positive na lang ako na ‘hindi, kaya pa ‘yan, kaya pa namin!’ As a team captain, mino-motivate ko sila sa loob ng court na ‘wag muna bibitaw.” -Crissel Ann Bando, UB Women’s Volleyball MARK A REMARK “’Di ko makakalimutan na nangyari sa’kin sa loob ng game ay ‘yung Championship game namin against PCU-Dasma, kasi dikit lang ‘yung laban, napaka-intense ng na-experience ko. Isa sa nagmo-motivate sa’kin para manatili sa game ay ‘yung iniisip ko lagi na ang huling school na itatak ko sa aking jersey ay ang UB.” -Bryll Urbiztondo Espina, UB Men’s Football NO PAIN, NO GAIN “Noong unang beses ako na-late sa training namin at pinarusahan ako ni coach na buong training na nakatayo ka lang at nakaharap lang sa pader na halos three hours. Natatakot na ako magkamali uli. Kaya mas pinaghuhusayan ko at ine-enjoy na lang ‘yung bawat game para hindi ako tamaan ng kaba.” -BenJayson R. Cantos, UB Men’s Volleyball Despite the fears that set discomforts on their shoulders, these athletes still managed to ace every game for the love of sports. They may fail and tumble, yet they remain strong and find their way back in the comforts of their second home amid the chaos under the gameplays of life. 177|ADVO MAG SPORTS

SHIFTING FEARS IN THE NEW NORM: CONQUERING THE PANDEMIC’S OBSTACLES THRU CYCLING Text | Arielle Dane Adan Photo | Nicole Rosales, Anne Bautista, FB Page: Mermar Manalo & Rennor Cuerdo 178 | ADVO MAG SPORTS

These days, wherever you turn your head, you’ll never miss a chance to get a glimpse of bicycles whizzing by. As the once car-clogged highways turned into empty speedways with a larger room for fresh air, people had not wasted this rare occurrence to adapt to a much more sustainable and healthier way of transportation in the time of pandemic thru cycling. Starting Point Gaining momentum Even before the Americans who were the inventors of As the pandemic first struck in the Philippines, public this mechanical contraption came to the country, there was transport was halted, which prompted Filipinos to get evidence that bicycles were already part of Filipino life. reacquainted with the benefits of cycling. For instance, bike shop owners and organizations testified that the demand for “Ang purpose ko lang po talaga ng pagbili ng bike noong una bikes has been stronger than ever in the country. ay para hindi ko na kailangan mag-commute. Hanggang sa naging way siya para makatakas ako sa stress at ma-isolate “Base sa observation ko, malaki ‘yung itinaas ng membership ‘yung sarili ko,” expressed Auselio Adriel Delos Santos, BS namin simula n’ung pandemic. Malaki ‘yung naitutulong nito Legal Management-II, a Ubian biker for 7 years. sa decongestion ng mga kalsada at less contact na rin sa mga tao kasi hindi na kailangan mag-commute,” shared Delos Before the pandemic hit, Delos Santos, who regularly took Santos, pertaining to their local cycling club. part in fun rides with the Red Cross, shared that challenges cannot be avoided, which shed light on the importance of In Batangas, locals can now get to more destinations teamwork and trust. Hurdles arose due to lack of designated since designated bike lanes were already in use in major city bike lanes and extreme weather conditions, which cause streets. As cycling continues to become popular, amplified accidents and circumstances when riders underestimate the with the growing support from the community, amateur and distance of new routes—the problem of getting back home on professional bikers should still know the risks it entails and be the track. adequately prepared for it. “Napapalitan naman ng fulfillment ‘yung challenges kapag “Lagi lang nilang unahin ‘yung safety nila. Kapag may narating ‘yung gusto naming marating. Mae-experience mo pinuntahang bagong lugar, ‘wag mag-iwan ng basura. rin ‘yung pagiging matulungin ng mga kapwa mo siklista sa Sumunod lang sa traffic rules at saka pinaka-importante, daan lalo na kapag nasiraan ka o kapag nahihirapan ka na. respeto sa kasama sa daan, naglalakad man ‘yan, kapwa Kahit hindi ka kakilala, tumitigil sila para tumulong. Minsan siklista o mga motorista,” advised Delos Santos. kapag hindi na kaya ng isa, pinagtutulung-tulungan itulak para lang walang maiiwan,” expressed Delos Santos. 179|ADVO MAG SPORTS

Diverging Routes  Commonly recognized as an individual sport, cycling only becomes more enjoyable when riding with fellow cyclists. Cycling clubs enable one to have more fun on daily training rides, explore new routes, and engage in adventures. Aside from that, the camaraderie it builds between people is essential for character growth and the potential to compete in cycling tourneys. “Prior to joining UB, I worked for 20 years abroad, and my usual weekend recreation there is scuba diving, but I sort of stopped engaging much on that because of government restrictions. Until a friend encouraged me to cycle as a replacement weekend activity, then I got hooked to it seriously. It’s a therapy for me and good for my health,” explained Sir Mermar Manalo, CBA instructor, a cyclist since 2017. Cycling also has many disciplines, including time trialing, cyclo-cross, track cycling, bicycle motocross or BMX, and cycle speedway. While abroad, Sir Manalo had experienced century rides with the Saudi Cycling Federation, which ran for over 100 kilometers. Along with his active participation in other bicycle racing categories are mountain and road bike cycling. “Cycling has therapeutic and economic roles. As you can observe, a lot of people use the bicycle as a form of transportation. It’s inexpensive and also a good form of exercise. One of the most important things with cycling is the social part as I get to meet a lot of friends who share the same passion as me,” stated Sir Manalo. Reaching farther horizons In a broader sense, learning how to bike etched itself as a milestone in everyone’s childhood that could power them throughout adolescence—paving the way towards an escape from every day’s bumpy tracks. “There’s a challenge in trying to keep in pace with fellow riders, but just go out and ride. Life is short, so cover distances and meet new acquaintances as much as you can,” ended Sir Manalo. 180 | ADVO MAG SPORTS

THE BULL’S EYE REVIVAL: BRAHMANS VIRTUAL COMEBACK HACKS Text | Faith Valen Villanueva Photo | The Westernian Advocate Photojournalists Athletes need to constantly boost their strengths and skills, but in the face of an epidemic where everyone needs to stay at home, their typical drills and workout routines were temporarily discontinued. In spite of this, the Brahman athletes and coaches are still hyped and eager to prepare for a possible comeback on their respective courts and arenas. For now, let us get to know the new normal routines that keep them moving even in the face of a global epidemic. Fitness check! “I designed a program that can be performed in a very limited space kasi hindi naman lahat ay may lawn. Some of them even do it inside their rooms or sa sala. The only purpose naman is just to keep them fit because whatever program you give online, it’s not always enough. Para ready lang sila in case na makabalik na sa normal. For now, just focus on their studies and stay fit.” -Coach Nelson Del Rosario, UB Football Club Space for an ace “Sa new normal na competition namin ngayon, online speed kicking na and in maintaining my performance, I do not usually need a wide space basta ‘yung enough lang na space para makapag-stretching, splits and makapag-stationary kickings ako. From there, nama-maintain ko ‘yung flexibility ko kahit nasa bahay lang ako.” -Pierce Aldwin Co, UB Taekwondo Missed match points “Nakaka-miss lang ‘yung training ng basketball at games namin sa different leagues. Kasi ngayon, ang hirap ng walang court, hindi makapag-training, so dapat kahit gan’un, workout tapos training—training ng skills pa rin para stay conditioned ang katawan. Sa mga players, stay motivated to your goals and keep working hard despite the pandemic.” -Don Tabol, UB Men’s Basketball Strive to survive “Wala kasing coaching staff ngayon kasi tinanggalan kami ng honorarium ng school dahil sa pandemic. ‘Di naman kami authorized na mag-training kaya tamang kumustahan lang sa mga chess players at alumni—wala kaming training. Minsan, nasali lang sila sa online chess thru Lichess. Okay lang naman kami, kulang lang mga players namin sa chess dahil sa pandemic.” -Coach Marvin Mercado, UB Checkmate Play smart, work harder “May certain time lang na allowed ako magliwaliw. Ang mga apps na nakakukuha ng sobrang atensyon ko ay naka-lock tapos ‘yong chess at mga apps sa pag-aaral lang ang p’wedeng gamitin—time management kumbaga. Well, being a varsity player is not all about talent. One thing that is much-needed is commitment. Alam nating mahirap pagsabayin ang pag-aaral at pagte-training pero if there’s a will, there’s a way.” -Mea Czarina Mendoza, UB Checkmate Given the hurdles brought by the pandemic, the university’s student-athletes and sports personnel have demonstrated that the show must go on no matter how tricky the unseen enemies’ tactics are, starting strong and finishing even stronger until their mission is fulfilled and done. 181|ADVO MAG SPORTS

Do It Yourself Workout: Bruno’s Quarantine Drills Tutorial Text | Faith Valen Villanueva Artwork | Angelo Mendenilla Gone are the days when your trainer and coaches command you to push yourself to the limit. The sweat, pain, and bruises from an exhausting daily fitness routine once witnessed and experienced has been modified. Thanks to the technological advancement waving! Everyone wants to keep the physical sensations of their healthy habits during the lockdown phase, and if you have not subscribed to any fitness channel yet, you may hit like and ring the notification bell of Bruno’s quarantine drills workout tutorial for you to keep notified. DRILL #1: SETTING TIMEOUT It takes 24 hours to call it a day. Online classes and household chores at home give you the endurance to get through with all of your duties and responsibilities. Regardless of how bombarded you are with a workload of activities, you should take a relaxation period spent on yourself. Having your me-time should not let you feel any guilt, bear on your mind instead that it may help you to feel recharged and fueled up for your quarantine daily activities ahead. DRILL #2: WEIGHT ON CONTROL Consistency is the key. Being a student-athlete, having self-discipline is a requirement to obtain your ideal body goals. Steering clear of high-carb foods and the unhealthy ones may be hard to avoid but you should still keep track of your diet. After all, you could get much more benefit from abandoning unhealthy cravings and temptations. 182 | ADVO MAG SPORTS

DRILL #3: glow up in charge Quarantine days are the perfect time to pamper yourself at home by downloading a fitness application on your phone or watching a series of video exercises suitable to maintain your physique— an athletes’ lockdown glow-up version. Staying at home does not equate to being fitness lackeys. Go and get those workout clothes and work up a sweat. DRILL #4: vitamins by all means Of course, to be able to manage unhealthy consumption, an athlete’s body needs essential substances and nutrients not only to provide the energy to be on the move but also to bolster your immune system, most especially during the quarantine. DRILL #5: gears and fears With the existing harmful impacts of the virus, you have to protect yourself first from the health threat through face masks and sanitizing sports equipment. Aside from that, proper maintenance, use, and organization of your fitness tools at home should also be done, to avoid the possible hazards while fulfilling your body goals and glow up mission during the lockdown season. defeating intangible opponents Nobody saw the great pandemic coming, but at least Bruno’s drills came right on time for you to get ready and be prepared to conquer the odds that might block your advances towards your goals during your lockdown series at home. Don’t forget to like and share Bruno’s channel for more workout session updates. 183|ADVO MAG SPORTS

CATEGORY: ‘PRIORITY’ AN ANALYSIS ON COVID-19 JABS FOR BRAHMAN ATHLETES Text | Angel Joy Liwag Photo | The Westernian Advocate Photojournalists 184 | ADVO MAG SPORTS

University’s pride. Even the onslaught of the nearly Resistance and resilience two-year lockdown did not stop the force of Brahman athletes as they continue to juggle distance learning With hopes to steadily grow into seasoned athletes, and shift to online training imposed by their university these Brahman champions carried on with shifted training coaches, respectively. to keep pace amid the pandemic. And now that there are ongoing vaccine rollouts, it is “We do virtual training talaga for the safety of everyone. a matter to address the standing of Brahman athletes Actually, I just got vaccinated this year since priority talaga when it comes to prioritization for jabs as they train that time is ‘yung may mga comorbid condition,” shared nonstop to carry the name of the University of Batangas Jennilyn Potot, UB Checkmate player. (UB) in various prestigious leagues. Proven resilient but never immune to their new opponent in line, the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted not only physical tourneys awaiting for these athletes but strived them to continue to be in shape too before the availability of vaccines in the country. “Challenging s’ya kasi naghahanap pa kami ng lugar na walang tao para d’un makapag-training kasi pandemic pa n’ung time na ‘yun, so iwas din kami sa maraming tao,” expressed Jerome Mananquil, UB Football Team. Looking back, the Brahman athlete community has begun to embrace the new normal by scheduled virtual sports training in the comfort of their homes and spaces, while some non-Batangueño and foreign athletes remained isolated in their University dormitories. Two opponents at a time Despite the struggle, Brahman contenders continue to pave the way for aspiring University student-athletes as they grit their teeth while risking traveling from home to the University gym for virtual tournaments that they could grab while maintaining their “student-athlete” missions. “Nagpunta akong school then virtual ‘yung judging ng mga hurado sa performance namin, hindi namin sila kasama at nasa kanya-kanyang school lang kami,” explained Lovely Jean Manimtim, UB Women’s Volleyball Team after bringing home a silver medal in a recent National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) South Virtual Skills Competition Season 22. Even with safety precautions and pandemic protocols, athletes are under observation while participating in tournaments, with the fact that nobody can deny the risk of exposing unvaccinated student-athletes despite maintaining their great physiques and active psyche throughout the lockdown period. “Hindi ko masyadong naisip ‘yung danger na sumali sa tournament kahit unvaccinated, parang normal lang, na- feel ko lang ay kaba sa game,” stated Manimtim. 185|ADVO MAG SPORTS

Jab well done Living up to the title, these Brahman champions are the same ones who humbly waited for an opportunity to get vaccinated after the priority groups have given their shots while they continue to grind for more virtual training and competitions. “This year ko nabalitaan ‘yung nag-announce ang UB na priority ang mga students na makapag pa-vaccine sa SM since possible na ulit ang face- to-face classes at sa tingin ko dapat i-prioritize pa rin ‘yung mga may comorbid conditions and the elderly kasi mas mahina ‘yung immune system nila compared sa amin,” added Potot. In line with this, the University of Batangas aimed to kick-off its COVID-19 vaccination program for any UBian over 18-years old and above on a first- come-first-served basis to be held at SM Batangas City on October 15-16 and 25-29. “Para sa’kin mas gugustuhin ko munang ma- priority noong kasagsagan ng bakunahan ‘yung mas prone na madapuan po ng COVID kasi makakapaghintay naman ang mga liga para samin,” told Kacelyn Punzalan, UB Women’s Volleyball Team. Unmasking new battles Nonetheless, Mananquil countered that the University should have categorized each Brahman athlete as a priority individual during the recent vaccination program deemed that they will continuously represent the University once the face-to-face competitions resume. With Brahman athletes gearing up for another season of sports competitions, it is just a matter of necessity to cater these champions of the things they rightfully deserve—healthy stamina and vaccine jabs that will support their new battles’ kick-offs. 186 | ADVO MAG SPORTS

MARK VINCENT ARENA VICTOR LUZ CABACIS PIERCE ALDWIN CO UB JINS NAB BRONZE MEDALS HAUL IN INT’L TKD QUEST Text|KarlJustineMontejo Photo | The Westernian Advocate Photojournalists Soaring with their UBian pride, three kickers from the talaga. Pagdating sa competition proper sinasabi ko sa sarili University of Batangas (UB) Taekwondo team took hold ko noon na all out na ‘to. Bigay na ang lahat para sa bayan of bronze medals in the Kim Un-Yong International Online ‘to,” added Co. Taekwondo Championship, Oct. 8. Through exemplary discipline and determination to Equipped with the drive to leave a mark, Team Captain win, athletes from different sides of the world take part in Pierce Aldwin Co, Co-Captain Mark Vincent Arena, and Victor showcasing what they are worth in and out of the fighting mat, Luz Cabacis represented the Batangas-based team in the with or without their doboks. Individual Male Senior Black Belt Category championship. “Aside from determination and discipline sa paglalaro, ang “Representing not only the team and university but also naging dahilan kung bakit ako naka-place ay nagtiwala ako the country sa international event is overwhelming. Minsan sa sarili ko at kay God. Nagpapasalamat rin ako sa Coach maiisip mo na lang na ito na ‘yung pinaka-hinihintay mo ko dahil gumagawa siya ng paraan para ma-train kami even at pinapangarap mo mula sa simula ng career mo as a during this pandemic,” expressed Cabacis. taekwondo practitioner, ‘yung maging isa sa representative ng Pilipinas sa isang competition,” stated Co, UB Jins Team The Kim Un-Yong International Taekwondo Championship Captain. is a Korean-based competition under the World Taekwondo, participated by countries including Bolivia, Hong Kong, Latvia, All events were held online under the situation brought about Mexico, Myanmar, Philippines, South Korea, Tunisia, USA, by the pandemic, but these did not stop the athletics from and Venezuela. thriving still to keep the passion burning. Included in the set of events are Poomsae (forms), music Poomsae, breaking, “The online competition is thrilling and exciting. Competing taekwondo gymnastics, and demonstrations. while representing Brahman’s TKD team is a privilege. I’m thankful because I was given a chance to showcase not only “It is very overwhelming lalo na ‘yung unang bigay sa inyo my skills but to participate in this event. I fondly anticipate the ng uniform niyo na may tatak ng Philippines, best feeling incoming event this year,” ended Co-capt. Arena. 187|ADVO MAG SPORTS

PBA PH CUP ‘21 RESUMES IN PAMPANGA Text | Carlos Kim Raphael Perez Photo | pba.ph Back to the ball game! PBA match may experience a delay if their target of staging After its elimination round was interrupted due to the rising two conferences is followed. COVID-19 cases in the country, the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) resumed its 2021 Philippine Cup at Don “Inaasahan kong mas exciting ‘yung mga magiging game Honorio Ventura State University Gymnasium in Pampanga, ngayong season dahil sa gigil factors ng mga players. Kapana- Sept. 1. panabik ang PBA ngayon kasi ‘yung mga players, mas sabik Following the declaration of the Enhanced Community maglaro. Mas mapapakita nila ang mga skills nila sa loob ng Quarantine (ECQ) protocol by the Inter-Agency Task Force court,” stated Joseph Yvan Torres, UB Brahman Cager. on Emerging and Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) in NCR last August, the Philippine Cup which earlier opened on July With the league in its semi-finals round, the team of the 16 at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig has been abruptly Meralco Bolts clashes with the Magnolia Hotshots while the suspended. TNT Tropang Giga is battling the San Miguel Beermen—the With this, PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial stressed that he is unsure of the possibilities that said teams are vying for their spots in the league’s final may come, stating that government doctors were round in October. not that confident concerning PBA’s ‘problem-free “Hindi lang sa mga player nakakatulong ang run,’ but have eventually expressed optimism in pagpapatuloy ng PBA kundi sa mga fans na miss na managing hurdles along the process. manood ng mga favorite players at mga laban nila. Marcial added that after seven to ten days, the Sumusunod naman sila sa mga rules at protocols natin sa bansa, kaya feeling ko ay magpapatuloy na muli ang mga games,” ended Torres. 188 | ADVO MAG SPORTS

PH WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL TOKYO 2020 SPEARHEADS USE OF TRAINING RESUMES IN BATANGAS ENVIRONMENT FRIENDLY MEDALS Text | Princess Allyssa Plotado Photo | volleyballphilippines.com Text | Clark Alduz Viray Photo | The Canberra Times For the quest for gold, the Philippine National Women’s In order to increase Japan’s environmental sustainability, Volleyball team moves out from Laoag, Ilocos Norte to Games Tokyo 2020, the Organising Committee (TOCOG) of continue its training camp to Lipa City, Batangas, starting on the much anticipated Olympics, opted to use medals made July 23, in preparation for the upcoming 21st Asian Senior out of recycled parts from electronic devices. Women’s Volleyball Championship. Tokyo 2020 Medal Project, which ran from 2017 to 2019, On the rising cases of COVID-19 and heightened is responsible for the said initiative and managed to collect restrictions, the PH team undergoes changes of location 78,985 tons of electronic devices including 6.21 million cell as part of the conditioning of the players’ health and safety phones donated by Japanese citizens. concerns, allowing the whole team to progress their training without stressing over travel constraints. Gold, silver and bronze elements are subsequently extracted from the electronics in order to produce the 5,000 The national volleyball team anticipated to hold their medals awarded to the victors of the said event. training ground in JET Hotel, in Lipa City, due to the minimal COVID-19 cases recorded in the said city. In total, 70 pounds of gold, 7,700 pounds of silver, and 4,850 pounds of bronze were collected from the electronic scraps. Meanwhile, Jorge Edson Souza De Brito, Brazilian ex- Olympian and appointed national team coach, is looking The said initiative marks the first time in Olympic history that forward to working hand-in-hand with Head coach, Odjie the medals given to winning athletes are made from recycled Mamon, to determine the last 4 to 6 players to complete the materials, as well as the first time that the Japanese citizens 16-composed-participants of the national team pool for the are involved in the production of the said awards. continental championship. Additionally, TOCOG also used cardboard for the athlete’s Ongoing practice drills are concurred by the preeminent beds, recycled plastics for the podiums and utilized scrap decided list of national team players including Kamille Cal, aluminums for the famed Olympic torch, as they eye the Faith Nisperos, Ivy Lacsina, Mhicaela Belen, Mylene Paat, further recycling of up to 65 % of the wastes that will result Eya Laure, Alyssa Solomon, Imee Hernandez, Jennifer from the games. Nierva, and Bernadette Pepito. Solar farms in Tamakawa, Naraha and Okuma in Fukushima, “Hindi madali ginagawa nila pero napakahusay nila dahil together with wood biomass and hydropower served as the kahit pandemic ay naglalaro pa rin sila at nabibigyan nila ng Games primary source of electricity for their events. saya ang mga tao lalo na ang mga sumusuporta sa kanila,” shared Thorn Buri, BS Nursing-I student, an avid volleyball fan since 2014. Apart from the resumption of practices in Batangas, the preparation will continue in Pampanga as the host province of the continental match confirmed by the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF), having its 3rd time as host, preceding Manila way back 1997 and Biñan last 2017. “Sana magtuloy-tuloy at sana makilala pa ang mga baguhan sa volleyball para lalong lumakas ang Team Philippines sa larangan ng volleyball dahil isa sa nagbigay ng ingay dito ay si Alyssa Valdez at talaga noong siya ay naglaro, napakaingay ng kanyang pangalan.” added Buri. Creating an immense excitement, the people eyes for the joining of Alyssa Valdez, together with Jia Morado, Kalei Mau, and Dawn Macandili, knowing their roles in the incredible rise of PH volleyball sports fandom and withstanding contribution to represent the state once again in the Asian bout. 189|ADVO MAG SPORTS

IMMORTALIZING LEGACIES: PH TO HONOR OLYMPIANS THRU MEMORIAL SITE LAUNCH Text | Nixon De Villa Photo | newclarkcitystadium.com To celebrate the recent victories of Filipino athletes, an Moreover, the bill mandates the Department of Education Olympian museum is proposed under House Bill 10096, (DepEd) to integrate athlete memoirs into basic education known as the Philippine Olympian Memorial Act filed in curriculum such as testimonies before and after international Congress by Valenzuela 2nd District deputy speaker Eric stint while seeking for local government unit’s (LGU) approval Martinez and other legislative body members, Aug. 26. on renaming sports facilities, schools, and roads under the Olympian’s name in their hometown. Set to be in Tarlac’s New Clark City Sports Complex, the public museum will feature memorabilia, news articles, “Siguro ito ang magiging simula ng higit na paglago ng postages, symbolic coins, photos, and video clips of past ating sports industry. It will inspire athletes na balak kunin ang Filipino Olympic qualifiers who participated in one of the sports nila as a career—na marahil sa kasalukuyan ay hindi world’s prestigious sporting events. lugi at talo sa suporta kung susubukan nilang gawin itong propesyon, at hindi lamang hobby,” added Mendoza. “As they write another milestone sa history ng Philippine sports, this memorial site will be a great reminder how these Meanwhile, the lawmakers seeks assistance from various athletes managed to conquer the international stage—may government offices such as the Philippine Sports Commission naiuwi man na medalya o wala. Pinapatunayan nila na ang (PSC), Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), National atletang Pinoy ay may ibubuga sa anumang larangan ng Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), Department sports sa kabila ng kakulangan ng resources at funding,” of Education (DepEd), and Department of Tourism (DOT) to expressed Mea Czarina Mendoza, student-athlete from the ensure that the bill materializes its purpose. UB Checkmate. DIDAL BOLTS OUT OLYMPIC FINALE FOOTING, CAPTURES THE HEARTS OF MANY Text | Faith Valen Villanueva Photo | Business Insider India Margielyn Didal missed a podium finish in the Tokyo Games 2020 women’s street skateboarding clash ramp but caught the attention of the masses with her charming personality and display of sportsmanship. The Filipina professional street skateboarder endured an ankle injury following her performance in the prestigious sports campaign, garnering a final score of 7.52 points in the said competition.  Instead of expressing her dismay, the Cebuana representative shows off her smile from ear to ear and is seen cheering for her opponents, crews, and other athlete delegates. “Ang skateboarding ay good vibes lang talaga. Nakikipag- compete kami para ma-improve pa namin ‘yung sarili namin sa paglalaro. May iba naman din na hindi nakikipag-compete kasi mas gusto nila ‘yung ibang bagay,” explained Frank Zed S. Pagcaliwagan, a skateboarder from Batangas. From her humble beginnings as an athlete, the 22-year-old skater has been known for her innate vibrant spirit, eminent sportsmanship, and good vibes exhibited and seen by the viewers throughout the prestigious competition that was applauded and went viral in other countries. “Masaya lang kami sa pinili naming sports, and okay na kami sa nabubuo naming samahan at kapatiran sa skateboarding community. Kung may competition man, after that, wala namang rivalry. Magkakaibigan pa rin lahat. Para po kasi sa amin, we do it for fun, not for fame, ” shared Pagcaliwagan.  190 | ADVO MAG SPORTS

BACK WITH A VENGEANCE! YULO BAGS GOLD, BRONZE MEDAL IN JAPAN GYMNASTICS TILT Text | Faith Valen Villanueva Photo | Tatler Asia Carlos Yulo leaps over redemption to chip in more medal counts for the Philippines, reaping a gold and bronze medal in the 2021 All-Japan Senior and Masters Gymnastics Championships in Yamagata, Tokyo, Sept. 23. Fueled by his failure in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Yulo delivered a spectacular floor exercise that made him secure a gold title after recording 15.300 points and later on seizing another victory, driving a bronze medal into a pocket in the podium finish of the Championships with a score of 15.000. “Alam kong hindi madali ang proseso paano makarating kung nasaan man siya ngayon. Kasama d’un ang hirap ‘yung bawat sakit na dinadanas niya para ma-achieve ‘yung bawat skills para makapagpakita siya ng malinis at magandang performance. Isa siyang tunay na idol dahil sa kanya, madaming gymnast na mas lalo lumakas rin ang loob,” expressed Guillyn Petero, 6-years gymnast from Nasugbu, Batangas. Yulo has been lauded as the first Filipino to be the world gymnastics champion after he smashed the record in the 2019 games and nailed it again this year. World title after world title, the history-making Filipino gymnast is now also the first native to pocket numerous world championship medals in one game. “Sobrang laking oportunidad at pribilehiyo na makarating kung nasaan man siya ngayon. Dahil iyong medalya, bonus na lang ‘yun, pero ‘di masusukat ‘yung mga taong sumusuporta at naniniwala sa kakayanan niya na maging malinis ang performance at maging safe siya sa mga laban niya,” added Petero. The Filipino Olympic athlete has fulfilled his promise of redemption following his crashed-out performance in the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics, redeeming his spotlight, and is now ready to defend his world title in the 2021 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Kitakyushu in October. Artwork | Israel Martin de Chavez 191|ADVO MAG SPORTS



THE WESTERNIAN ADVOCATE THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF UNIVERSITY OF BATANGAS A.Y. 2021-2022 EXECUTIVE EDITORIAL BOARD Editor in Chief Clark Alduz A. Viray Associate & Sports Editor Faith Valen A. Villanueva Angel Joy I. Liwag Managing Editor Joviallyn C. Belegal Auditor & Chief Photojournalist Alyssa G. An Business Manager & Literary Editor EDITORIAL BOARD Features Editor Jane Therese C. Banaag Cultures Editor Arielle Dane C. Adan Devcom Editor Nixon A. De Villa Chief Artist (Technical) Erwin A. Tiberio Chief Artist (Creative) Angelo M. Mendenilla Chief Layout Artist Marie Joy M. Axalan AUXILIARIES Chief Correspondent Marion G. Macatangay Circulation Manager Elaine E. Mapagdalita Property Custodian Israel Martin U. de Chavez EDITORIAL STAFF Senior Photojournalist Gerard Zairus T. Gupit Junior Reporters Katherine Nicole R. Lontok Princess Allyssa P. Plotado Junior Photojournalists Carlos Kim Raphael D. Perez Anne Lorraine G. Bautista Nicole Beatriz E. Rosales Patrick Owen P. Gube ADVISERS Mr. Christer A. Lopez Dr. German B. Rosales Visit us at The Westernian Advocate office, AH Basement, University of Batangas Hilltop, Kumitang Ibaba, Batangas City 984-33-52 or 09951676306 [email protected] The Westernian Advocate TWAdvocate thewesternianadvocate_