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THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MINDANAO VOLUME IX, NO. 1 AUGUST-DECEMBER 2020 PRIMUM UPHOLDING KNOWLEDGE THROUGH INFORMATION f fb.com/umprimum [email protected] UMindanao gears up for ‘New Normal’ in education By Edmalyn R. Canton ADAPTING TO THE NEW NORMAL. UM Blackboard LMS is the new virtual classroom of UMians. MATINA, DAVAO CITY— Academic year 2020-2021 started differently for all UMians. Due to COVID-19 pandemic, higher education institutions (HEIs) allowed to take online learning classes as a replacement of traditional face-to-face classes, which was barred under health and safety protocols developed by Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF). ...continue to page 2 news DOST-PCIEERD grants funding for UM’s ChemEng studs in YIP2020 By Jaiben Lloyd A. Alabado niversity of Mindanao’s Chemical Engineer students Ivanbert A. Damasco and Steph Kier Ponteras inked contracts with the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD) as they are hailed as part of the nine student group grantees for the Young Innovators’ Pro- Ugram (YIP) 2020. Mayor Sarah launches YIP is a program estab- SDQR for residents, visitors lished in 2017 under DOST- Page 3 W“ala jud ko nag-PCIEERD that aims to give editorial expect na outresearch grants to the promising Damasco’s Synthesis of nano- project title Hg and Pb Detection cellulose from durian rinds and Kit Utilizing DLimonene from nanosilica from rice hulls for Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis) the preparation of a self-healing Peelings. young researchers who are under smart concrete with augmented The awarding ceremony of 92 entries, last September 22, 2020 was 25 years old. mechanical properties devel- conducted in a virtual ceremo- Among the 95 teams who ops a self-healing ability on ny via Zoom which Damasco, naapil mi sa top submitted their research propos- cementitious matrix to lessen Ponteras, and Lawagon attended. 16 shortlisted als last June 15, 2020, Damasco the occurrence of cracks in the studies, until naThe grantees will receive at most and Ponteras have competed as cement-based products. one of the individual teams fo- Ponteras focuses on the Php 800,000 budget depending Delusional cusing both studies in Nanotech- research on developing a kit that on the line item budget of their aapil sa Final 9. Solution nology research projects under would detect lead and mercury study, and will also receive Php Page 4 the mentorship of Dr. Chosel P. in the contaminated waters due 15,000 monthly allowance. -Steph Kier Ponteras Lawagon. to mining wastewaters with his ...continue to page 2 features UM-Davao holds first ever Virtual Graduation Rites By Michaelangelo C. Soriano Years of blood, sweat, and YouTube for people, not just students’ new mode of learning, and tears finally paid students, to see the success of the The Power of Music off as undergraduates, proud students of the University which is the online class. The to the World graduates, and law students of Mindanao. Page 7 joined recently in the 74th- university will plan to address Commencement Exercise as The master of ceremo- infotainment University of Mindanao’s ny, Dr. Pedrito M. Castillo III, the students’ sustenance in online first-ever Virtual Graduation Vice-president on Academic R1SE- SUNR1SE on August 12, 2020. Planning and Services introduced learning by investing in technol- (Music Review) the President of the University The University orga- of Mindanao, Dr. Guillermo P. ogies for the students’ education- Page 11 nized two batches for the Virtual Torres Jr., to formally open the Graduation, the first batch of the Commencement Exercise and al convenience amid the pan- Virtual Graduation was held on followed by giving a message for August 12, 2020, and the second the graduates. demic. The President assured the batch was held on October 7, 2020.The Virtual Graduation The President delivered students’ resiliency and strength streamed live on the University’s a message congratulating the social media accounts: Facebook graduates of 2020. He also stated would give them hope during the the pandemic challenges and the crisis and their future endeavors. The President also gave thanks to the parents for the support they give to their children and bid the VIRTUAL MARCH. The UM graduates congratulations again graduates bid goodbye on screen. on their success. Photo credits: The Universi- ty of Mindanao Official YouTube ...continue to page 3 Channel Account

02 news PRIMUM The Official Student Publication of University of Mindanao Tourism and Hospitality students converge on Virtual Tourcon 2020; CHE represents UM By Rhett Angelo G. Belonio Eleven 3rd year students Senate Committees on Tour- Local which was hailed as one of Photo courtesy: UPAIT Tourism and Hospitality Conference from UM College of ism, Cultural Communities and the Top 5 category winners. For Facebook Page Hospitality Education Social Justice, Welfare & Rural the Travel Brochure, the team (CHE), together with their Development was invited to be of Joyce Gardose, Brian Cata- teacher, Prof. Clarence Joy the keynote speaker. Her talk lan, and Lorieal Joyce Sabado Alcaraz participated on the focused on the empowerment of was among the top 10 finalists. first virtual Youth for Tourism the role of the youth in advanc- Meanwhile, Kate Ella Antonio Conference 2020 last Novem- ing tourism growth in the wake represented the University in ber 7 and 21 via zoom with the of pandemic. On the other hand, MX Turismo 2020, the search for theme, “Advancing Tourism Sec. Bernadette Romulo-Puyat, Tourism Ambassadors and was Growth in the Time of Pan- the Secretary of the Department included in the Top 7 finalists. demic”. of Tourism delivered her inspira- The conference ended through a The TourCon is an tional message to the participants virtual awarding ceremony led annual conference organized by of the conference. Furthermore, by Sec. Romulo-Puyat. More- the University of the Philippines notable persons in the field of over, Xenia Faith Dulay from Asian Institute of Tourism Asso- hospitality management and CHE shared her takeaway of the ciation of Alumni. It is partici- tourism also shared their insights. event, “It serves as an eye-opener pated by tourism and hospitality Aside from the talk, the for me of how the pandemic has students from different univer- UP AIT also organized various affected the industry. Nonethe- sities and colleges across the inter-school competitions in less, I am also delighted knowing country, including the University which the participants from the that the industry is revamping of Mindanao (UM). University competed. For the gradually to cope with the During the first day Crisis Management Plan Com- challenges and adapt to the new of the conference, Sen. Nancy petition, Kyla Base of UM is normal.” Binay, the Chairperson of the one of the members of Padayon ...from page 1 UMian welcomes new freshmen coeds, transferees DOST-PCIEERD By Jea T. Piencenaves grants funding for No crisis can stop stu- College of Teacher Education UM’s ChemEng dents to achieve and said, “Your first day in the uni- studs in YIP2020 chase their dreams. versity might be different from Wala jud ko nagexpect As the pandemic a normal college student but I na out of 92 entries, naapil mi sa top 16 shortlisted studies, prompted the Higher Education want you guys to make this as until na aapil sa Final 9. Like dream come true siya, because Institutions (HEI) to postpone an opportunity that even though someday naa patent sa among study ang ma-published pod face to face classes and shift to classes are made online with siya sa Journals,” Ponteras said in an interview. distance learning, the University your professors, learn and listen This is the first time of Mindanao welcomed new to them. Make friends with your that UM students were granted such opportunity in set of enrollees and transferee classmates and help each other. DOST-PCIEERD and was the only university in the whole students, coming from differ- Besides it is the choice Mindanao that participated the event. ent cities and provinces of the of Antao’s parents to enroll As of now, Damasco country, with their unwavering her in UM, it is also her dream and Ponteras are now working on their projects and encou- dedication to excellence and university because of the quality raging young innovators to ex- total quality in education and CONNECT AND RECONNECT. College of Teacher Education plore to the works of research education of the institution. and create projects that would improve the quality of man- collective aspirations remain (CTE) conducted their general assembly and oath taking last She furthere shared how she kind. intact. October 5, 2020. Photo courtesy: UM-CTE Department learned about her chosen degree For the academic year program, the school’s facilities, 2020-2021, UM offers on- activities such as webinars and man Bachelor of Secondary the different buildings, and the line-blended learning, which video conferencing to welcome Education major in Biological offices to visit in the campus. includes both asynchronous the students especially the fresh- Science expressed, “This new This is echoed by CSG and synchronous sessions. men and transferees. The online normal experience is so touching President Rojas and said ,“Let’s Every freshman, transferee and conferences were attended by and satisfying at the same time. hope and pray that this situation continuing student hailing from their college dean, program head, Although, we haven’t met one that we’re experiencing will each department contrived plans and college instructors to orient another in personal, still, the way end, so that we can go back to and strategies to finally start the the students while establishing our seniors and teachers treat us is our normal lives and face to long-awaited opening of classes. rapport and adapting with this so heartwarming. face classes. I can’t wait to meet Each college or de- new normal situation. As, Edwell Vincent you guys soon at the University partment conducted various Vanessa Antao, a fresh- D. Rojas, CSG President of the of Mindanao.” ...from page 1 online textbooks, and of provid- physical classroom, but because as physical distances and the considerations,” Vista spoke. ing a means of communication of the pandemic, it will become ban on the student congregation UM affirms that com- UMindanao gears up between teachers and students. the primary system,” Amorado in the classroom. munication is a massive concern for ‘New Normal’ in In a press release from told in Mindanao Times Meanwhile, Patri- for teachers and students. To Mindanao times, Dr. Ronnie V. Amorado added that to cia Idmara Vista, a 3rd year resolve this issue, the University education Amorado, UM Vice President for allay fears that this new system Accountancy student shared her is also creating a mobile online Academic Affairs said that the will cost the students more, own perception on UM’s shift- classroom program that will The University of university piloted LMS which pointing out that the University ing to face to face class towards enable students to work on a Mindanao (UM) has utilized a is advantageous both to the has bought the software and blended learning mode. variety of tasks offline and syn- blended learning modality con- students, the teachers, and even that whatever small amount that “I am very skeptical chronize their outputs when they taining both asynchronous and officials of the schools as they they will incur is already in their and excited at the same time. I return online. As of August 20, synchronous online classes. UM can readily get into this online miscellaneous fees. have doubts if we can still get undergraduate freshmen students launched the Blackboard Learn- classroom at the comfort of their “The implementation of the the same quality education and of 6,927 enrollees, undergraduate ing Management System (LMS) homes. system is timely [due to the pan- really adapt to this new way of continuing students of 13,086 as a way of processing the deliv- “During the pilot demic]” Amorado told, respond- learning given that not every- enrollees, and estimated 5,000 ery of educational content, such process, the online system was ing to the quarantine procedures one has the same privileges and enrollees of post-graduate stu- as learning modules, videos, and just a supplemental system to the that needed to be enforced, such the faculty surely have to make dents

PRIMUMnews 03 The Official Student Publication of University of Mindanao Mayor Sarah launches SDQR for residents, visitors By Winkle Dumagil “We also envision to use However, SDQR sys- security and technical anxiet- crimes as it helps track down the prohibition on non-essential technology to support the tem had experienced technical ies, Jeanelle Mae Micabalo, a criminals,” Tapdasan said. travel which all residents and team. We endeavor to catch many problems as the public raised Political Science student from non-residents of Davao City are of the contacts of a confirmed their concerns on the process of University of Mindanao doubted The Safe Davao QR is a required to secure their unique positive case with the use of the registration including the site’s on SDQR cyber safety saying platform created by the local and permanent DQR to travel Safe Davao QR,” unresponsiveness, the errors, “How sure are we if our personal government to help expedite around the city. and the “under maintenance” information is safe? The system contact tracing and enforce the Davao City Mayor Sara advisory. itself crashed down, so, the threat Duterte publicized via Facebook of hacking is there probably.” live, Safe Davao QR (SDQR) “After the broadcast and contract tracing to curb and the announcement last Tuesday On a lighter note, John control the non-essential move- that the DQR is for contact Carlo Tapdasan, a Computer En- ment of the people within the tracing and a pass, the public gineering student from College city to help stop the spread of the realized that they need to get of Engineering Education (CEE) coronavirus disease (COVID-19) a DQR. At some point, the wished to extend the benefits which tackled about city’s ac- site was accessed by 10,000 of the SDQR. “Even if the complishments, future plans, and individuals at one time,” Mayor pandemic is no longer existent, I next steps to combat the pandem- Sarah replied. want to stick to the QR code sys- ic crisis. tem because it will help lessen Meanwhile, filling with Competent: OSA UPDATES Scale 1 100 – 96 UM Launches New 95 – 90 Grading System 89 – 85 84 – 80 Scale 2 Grade Grade Description UM Main – The Institute of Hence, institutions like UM has shall have a grade of 95, for 79 – 75 A 4.0 High Distinction Pedagogical Advancement to develop effective ways to align example, in the GE 2 Purposive B+ 3.5 Distinction for Competitiveness or IPAC with the international benchmark Communication class, he/she B- 3.0 Very Good (formerly known as Academic in terms of grading systems, shall have a numerical grade of C+ 2.5 Good Planning Services or APS) of wherein teaching, learning, and 3.5 under the scale of B+ with C- 2.0 Average the University of Mindanao proficiency matter most in the ho- a grade description of “Distinc- announces its new grading listic development of the student. tion” reflected in the Transcript Not Competent: system for to be implemented Hence, below is grading of Records. and shall be used for courses in system, with two basic grading Courses from the Scale 1 Scale 2 Grade Grade Description the first year level in this school schemes – the numerical and the second year level to fourth/fifth year 2020-2021 in the UM letter grade, wherein the General year level this year shall follow <75 F 1.0 Fail Main and Branches. Percentage Average (GPA) is the previous grading system, The primary goal is to calculated on a scale of 4.0 fol- where the highest grade of 100% Others: Grade Description produce grades that more accu- lowing based-15 grade equivalent is equivalent to 1.0 numerical Grade No Final Permit rately reflect student’s learning and 75 as a passing mark. This grade. 7.1 Lack Requirements progress and achievement. means that if the first year student 7.2 Total Withdrawal of Enrollment TWE ...from page 1 honor the graduates’ parents by ty. Their devotion to finish CEE-CSG conducts acknowledging their whole- their degree and dreams will Online Talent Festival UM-Davao holds hearted devotion and sacrificial inspire students who will one first ever efforts. day walk to the stage and be By Marcel Dagohoy recognized as graduates of the Virtual Graduation To give parents the University. Amidst the threat of the and many exciting activities have Rites utmost gratitude for their COVID-19 pandemic, yet to be done. sacrifices and love, the bulak For the other stu- the College of Engineer- “This event will provide The Honorable Honors sa pasalamat was given by Lyn dents, the perseverance and ing Education- College Stu- ‘fun and entertainment’ among The momentous feeling Carel T. Garcia, Bachelor of dedication to push through dent Government (CEE-CSG) all the students that will uphold Science in Criminology, and his despite the challenges in the regulated the most anticipated oneness despite the pandemic,” of pride escalated when the mother, Mrs. Carel T. Garcia, University must serve as an and long-month celebration, stated by Sheldon Alden Saluta, awarding of academic honors in the first batch of the Com- inspiration to every other ESTUARIES 2020: Phoenix’s the CEE-CSG President. He add- announced by Dr. Ronnie V. mencement Exercise. And in student still working on Online Talent Festival that ed that this celebration would not Amorado, Senior Vice-Presi- the second batch, it was given finishing their degree. started on November 1. be complete without the help of dent for Academic Affairs. The by Alec Christian M. Cervantes, This awaited moment officers, staff and the Engineer- students who graduated with Bachelor of Science in Mechan- A Curtain Closed and A New comes with a series of activities ing department heads especially Latin Honors and Academic ical Engineering, Magna Cum One Opens that showcase the Engineering the CSG adviser, Engr. Alfonse Excellence was a very inspir- Laude, and his mother, Christi- students’ talents, which includes T. Estibal and the CEE Dean, Dr. ing mark for every student to na M. Cervantes. As the Commencement extemporaneous speech, vocal Charlito Caῆesares. work hard, to earn what they Exercise neared its end, the duet, phoenix’s trivia night, “To my constituents, have achieved, and to be ex- In honoring the beloved proud graduates are now ready TikTok challenge, digital poster let me be your steward in this cellent in the field they took. and hard-working faculty mem- to face the hardships outside making, mobile legends tour- new normal. I want to establish bers, Junne Eddren S. Jamia, the school and chase their nament, creative face shield a bureaucracy that will prioritize Though only a few are Bachelor of Science major in dreams. The curtain is closed, challenge, essay writing contest, the student’s optimal well-being; candidates for the academ- Mathematics, presented the Sa- and a new one is about to chess tournament, Balak/spoken we’ll listen to your voice, will ic honors, their efforts will lute to Faculty while Ian Angelo open; a new page unfolds for poetry, vocal solo, call of duty be your constant when you need be recognized by so many Macalam, Bachelor of Science our graduates. mobile, and Dota tournament. As help and assistance,” Saluta said. students who will soon finish in Hotel and Restaurant Man- of now, the event is still ongoing, their degrees and work hard agement, Cum Laude, delivered Hardships will be to receive their prestigious in the second batch. inevitable among graduates, awards. Excellent Graduates especially now in the pandem- Honor and Gratitude ic, but they can push through The Deans introduced for sure. As they overcome Dr. Pedrito M. Castillo different colleges’ candidates their ordeals, the University’s II introduced Dr. Eugenio S. to honor and recognize them ideals will undoubtedly reflect Guhao Jr. to read citations to as graduates of the Universi- in their lives.

04 editorial PRIMUM The Official Student Publication of University of Mindanao DELUSIONAL I TOLD SUNSET SOLUTION ABOUT RUE Unexpected nightmare has been encountered in the Rhett Angelo G. Belonio Philippines when a new respiratory infection outbreak Editor-in-Chief called novel coronavirus enters the country and has given us a new spin of life in an instant. The said virus started r.belonio.475914umindanao.edu.ph in China that affects the whole world and declared by World Health Organization as pandemic. It victimizes anyone, and Odd Ad-opted: On Soda, nobody is even spared of its intensity. To say the least, we all Glasses, and Stigma did not see it coming. Our own government was even caught If there are better ways to off guard— which has led to unforeseen consequences. Under- describe the year 2020 has ic buzz for the brand. They just that reason, it may seem as if it is standably, no country is even prepared but it could have been been apart from it is “a series stepped up their game out of the impossible to undo the damage prevented. They could have done something to mitigate the of unfortunate events” then dare norms and mediocrity of Filipi- and destigmatize, we really need situation, they should have— and that is accountability. to let me know. Adding an extra no commercials for rendering a to be stern in calling out even spice to the bizarre moments of riveting concept not to mention the slightest affront portrayed on A little throwback, in the month of March, the President the year, the new ad of RC cola the quality and advanced visual screen. delayed the travel restriction that caused to spread the virus rapidly gripped many viewers. It truly effects and cinematography. in the country. But if only the government imposed early travel ban left an indelible mark on us as if However, they could have put More so, I stand with my as early as January and set aside emotional attachments to other we are assessing a glass of water a trigger warning for people, belief that what should be high- countries- we might have never reached this point. if it is half full or half empty and especially young viewers who lighted in Philippine media is our interpretation depends on our have trauma and phobia toward the celebration of adoption and The Philippine government is slow-moving with regard to point of view. nightmare and trypophobia-in- its real-life stories including its the capacity of the test, trace, and treat of COVID-19 patients. ducing images. bittersweet journey. May we all Conducting Mass testing was even difficult to achieve. As a result, Whether the glass is half full realize the need to countervail the country ranks as one of the countries with most number of or half empty, it could be a famil- Moreover, I do understand these portrayals with contents cases in Southeast Asia as it struggled to ramp up testing and iar subject within the commer- that the social media buzz reac- that will revamp the toxic culture contact-tracing. While the number of cases continues to increase, cial. The ad begins with a boy tion is subjective. Nonetheless, I and finally recapture the real the national government started to experience shortage to medical who has a dark complexion and also want to magnify that despite perspective of adoption. resources. Not to mention some hospitals have reached maximum curly hair expressing his senti- its surreal and new concept, it bed capacity and some medical frontliners are infected too which ment to his mother whose skin has a thought-provoking take on In retrospect with the ad, resulted to reduced workforce in the hospitals. Thus, it crippled the is lighter and has straight hair if a sensitive topic— adoption. I I will not wrangle anymore if Philippines ability to quell the COVID-19 pandemic. he is adopted. He confessed that have seen how people on social some are convinced that the he often gets bullied and shamed media started to use the line mother filling her son’s glasses Furthermore, there was an allocated budget from the govern- because he looks different. of the ad, “Ampon ba ako?” to with the beverage was a symbol ment that would assist the whole nation amid the pandemic crisis. Despite his mother’s immediate poke fun with their friends and of her love and the whole family Nevertheless, the welfare programs such as SAP are not sustain- contradiction, he urged her to in response, “Check mo likod enjoying the beverage manifests able, and these will never suffice in the long run. The problem tell the truth while taking off his mo kung may mga baso ka”. acceptance and equal treatment. aggravated when the President announced the ₱25.1 billion budget, uniform and revealing his back Although the commercial was If only commercials showcase but only ₱3.1billion is allocated. PACC Commissioner Greco Bel- with four empty glasses attached not made with the intention of enough and proper representa- gica said that there are anomalies in SAP distribution. This is not to it. The mother then pulled her offending anyone, adoption as tion, radiate positive impact, and something new, since time immemorial, the Philippines is experi- head off and revealed that she a trope in the ad gives rise to deliver a clear message to the encing this endemic known as corruption. If we are to look at the is actually an RC Cola bottle. the problematic perpetuation of viewers, then these are the kind bigger picture, nothing is more appalling with this unjust system She then filled the glasses on her stigma in society. It became a of stories that we wish to see that only benefits the rich and will never favor the poor. And these son’s back with ice cubes and punchline for mocking where it in the Philippine media every unlawful activities even occurred in the wake of a global health the ad ends in a scene where the offends those who are directly year. After all, nothing is more crisis? Shame. entire family was enjoying the affected. I am convinced that this fulfilling than knowing how a glasses of RC cola together. is a consequence heavily influ- commercial can instigate healthy It has been eight months already that the country and its enced by the mainstream media, and friendly discourses which people are suffering from the crisis, yet we have not flattened the A variety of reactions, where commonly the portrayal can help us discern the bigger curve. Throughout these months, we heard nothing but an endless emerging conspiracy theories, of the adopted child is someone picture and can also be an instru- dispute between two parties, two colors. We have been advised and critical analyses quickly who is always being bullied or ment for change in perception to be resilient but how long can we last? We are not promised to- sprung up online. Some lauded oppressed. As a result, the neg- toward sensitive and emotional morrow. We do not have the luxury of time to celebrate especially its brilliance; some expressed ative behaviors and stereotypes subjects. To simply put, we can those who are caught in the middle of the battleground and those their disgust and intense condem- toward the adopted child appear be entertaining and at the same who are on the edge of a cliff. nation. Whether it has received to be normal and are deeply time educating. It may sound odd positive or negative comments, rooted in our society to the but let us remember that we have Gone are the days of romanticizing resiliency and optimism. undeniably, they succeeded in degree that these have become our own glasses, and they will The government needs to have wise and right decisions to address their objective to create an organ- tolerated, worse accepted. For remain empty if we do nothing to the problem. They need to uphold the rules they have implement- fill them. ed– no one should be above the law. They need to give more focus in addressing this crisis than other futile issues. They need to provide more funds– for more medical resources, financial support to those in the marginalized sector, and provide reasonable pay to all essential frontliners. As students of the University and as citizens of the country, we must amplify our voices and strengthen our power to fulfill our role as the hope of our future. We must take part in performing our duty to cooperate and follow the rules and health protocols established by the authority because after all, this is a collaborative effort. We shall commend the good and denounce the evil. We should never be afraid to call out incompetence and hold those in power accountable. Remember that choosing to be silent and doing nothing only reeks apathy. Most importantly, we should be reminded to weigh things accordingly and choose leaders who are not just good with words, but also in deeds and can think critically and provide visionary solutions. PRIMUM Staff Writers Shiny Deborah Rose A. Bullecer EDITORIAL BOARD AND STAFF Marcel Marie T. Dagohoy Philip John A. Daguipa VOLUME IX NO. 1 Winkle M. Dumagil AUGUST-DECEMBER 2020 Adrian Kenneth G. Nervida Kryzyl Laureanne M. Romaldon Editor-in-Chief: Rhett Angelo G. Belonio Michaelangelo C. Soriano Associate Editor: Jaiben Lloyd A. Alabado Managing Editor Jose Maria Salvador Contributers Jomar C. Benjamin N. Araullo Preciois Angel Yassin Kiemar C. Luistra News Editor: Edmalyn R. Canton Justine Anne S. Miralles Rochel Dave Saavedra Features Editor: Jea T. Piencenaves Sherwin Glen Ali Cartoonist: Marielle E. Moner Moderator: Marianne P. Afrondoza PRIMUM is the official student publication of the University of Mindanao. Its editorial office is located alongside the Gymnasium, UM Matina Campus, Davao City, Davao del Sur, 8000; It can be reached through the telephone number, (082) 300-5456 local 142 and email address [email protected]. All rights reserved. No part of Primum may be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publication. All contributions become Primum’s property and the Editor-in-Chief reserves the right to edit all articles for publications.

PRIMUM opinionThe Official Student Publication of University of Mindanao 05 ANO NA JEA-N? their visuals and talents, Filipino port K-Pop as a genre because K-pop fans support them because our own entertainment industry Jea T. Piencenaves they seem to be a total pack- does not put the spotlight to Feature Editor age. Also, Filipino K-Pop fans real talents. There are a lot of express admiration on how much Filipino artists who really have [email protected] K-Pop artists dedicate their love the potential and talent who and passion for music and stay- could compete with international Never Judge a Music ing grounded amidst popularity. artists. However, the companies by its Language and producers here in our coun- Truth to be told, K-Pop is a try do not promote these artists Aformer beauty queen speak English better than Kore- being able to speak the English lot better than modern western well. They neglect pure talents received a backlash ans, adding insult to injury. As language is not tantamount to artists. I think most people here and bestow the spotlight to those from the Filipino K-Pop a result, the hashtag #Opinyon- intelligence. Nothing comes in the Philippines especially the mediocre ones. Community as she posted on MoShareMo rapidly topped the good with you being a hater. This young generation likes listening her Facebook page spurring hate Twitter trend list. kind of mentality is only wanting to music despite of a song’s in- For the past decade, K-Pop toward the genre, K-pop. The more Filipino to support artists appropriate concept and lyrics. It has raised the standard of a infamous “Filipinos are starting Just because someone likes from other parts of the world marked on me how this one Fil- high-quality and world-class en- to lose their identities trying to a certain culture or a particular instead. ipino rap song that contains foul tertainment. K-Pop artists knows be like Koreans” card was pulled genre, does that automatically words in its lyrics dominated the how to use their influence of out again out of nowhere. This mean he or she has lost her iden- K-Pop fans are not trying Filipino music chart for the very making the world a better place. is just one of her few lines that tity and forgotten her original to be Korean; they just know reason that it has a catchy beat. Every music that are release to incited hateful comments and roots? She is being hypocrite how to appreciate and respect I could not forget how it was the world creates a huge impact eventually triggered the said and a racist towards Koreans. the culture and music. K-Pop is being repeatedly played and used towards millions of people. You community to come after her. She is also downgrading their for everyone to enjoy. Filipinos on TV and radio programs not have the leeway and the privilege On the last part of her post, she English skills by saying we listen to the genre because they considering the multigenerational to like and listen to any music of bravely exclaimed that Filipinos Filipinos speak the said language are after the music quality and listeners. I could not under- your taste. What is not accept- better than they do. In my view, versatility of the artists. Besides stand how these supposed to be able is shaming one’s inclination restricted songs were able to pass , gaslighting and invalidating his through the authorities. patriotism. Considering the bat- tles that we are facing, cut people Moreover, I also believe that some slack— even for music. the reason why many people sup- MIC TEST these group identities results we see people on what group in being labeled with negative, they are. A person who sees ev- Michaelangelo C. Soriano horrifying names. For example, eryone as part of a certain cate- Staff Writer when you have different opinions gory of groups may start playing about the president of the Re- the victim. They start accusing [email protected] public of the Philippines, you are other groups of their weakness labeled as Dilawan or Yellow- and miseries. Such ideas of vic- Warning: The Dangers of tard. And if you disagree with the timization do nothing than create Identity Politics LGBTQ and Feminist move- intergroup conflicts. Simply put, D DS, Yellowtard or Dil- why is it so dangerous? bottom of the hierarchy disman- ments about special privileges an individual cannot win playing awan, maka-Marcos, Identity politics is when a tle those at the top. They do not policies, you are a bigot or sexist. identity politics. LGBTQ, and Feminist see you as an individual, but the movements. These are the terms group of racial, religious, ethnic, group you associate with. In other words, playing To reject identity politics, we that are trending today in the social, or cultural identity pushes identity politics results in groups must encourage ourselves to see Philippines, and they all have agendas or interests that disre- The political divide of identity automatically slander contrary everyone as an individual with one thing in common: they are gard a larger, broader political politics arises when collective ideas without hearing the other diverse thoughts. We must not identity groups, and they hold group. ideological groups overshad- side’s perspective. discriminate against anyone with very controversial issues. These ow an individual’s thoughts. different opinions because it does aforementioned groups contain Identity politics is vastly dan- The force driving this political And as students, we should nothing to find common ground. a dangerous resentment-ridden gerous because a person identi- activism is mostly driven by a reject shutting down opinions Judging a person in the group ideology, and that is identity fies people in a certain category resentful judgment that leads to from people who have different they belong to does nothing to politics. of groups. That person makes a prejudice, causing an insane con- views from our own; we should reach consensus, nor does it hierarchical structure of groups flict between different identity take it as a challenge that having unite. Reaching consensus is not For starters, if anyone were to to identify what kind of group is groups’ narratives. a decent conversation about why easy when someone disagrees ask, what is identity politics, and at the top or, in some cases, in we disagree on things makes it with us, but it is well within our power. And those who are at the Challenging the narrative of more reasonable than calling choice to challenge what divides someone negative things and us to achieve what unites us. judge quickly. We cannot be whole if we Playing identity politics always think as halves of the means we do not acknowledge whole. each other as individuals because MADEMARSELLE Media and Politics are some- media. This may be inevitable times toxic combinations. to happen, but we need to put Marcel Maire T. Dagohoy in mind that it is best to keep Staff Writer Personally, those people on learning and acquire more who use ad hominems to their knowledge waiting for you to [email protected] opponents show weaknesses unfold. and too much narcissism. This AD HOMINEM ATTACKS: fallacy is mostly used when a Using ad hominems will A HARMFUL LOGICAL FALLACY person becomes cornered with never be the best method to the reasoning that they cannot win; it will only undermine your Ad hominem attacks are most of us become a once-in-a- about politics. At first, I thought rebut, and what they do is to own arguments as much as you the killer of the argu- lifetime judge, not in the court it would be alright for the people attack the person to avoid further undermine someone’s character. ments. It lost the actual but someone’s personality. to publicize their sentiments and discussion and hide the possi- On the brighter side, you are not merit of your statements and the opinions regarding our govern- ble wounded pride from losing. closing any doors of improve- essence of a healthy discussion. This fallacy is quite effective ment’s undertakings since it is For me, if you cannot stand any ment when you accept and ac- One of the most used platforms in shutting down the debate. One their right to do so. However, as longer with your statement, it knowledge that your arguments nowadays is social media, where of the reasons is it provokes the this system continuously prevails would be better to acknowledge are not suitable to push through. most of us comfortably post other person’s emotions by un- on the internet, this has gradually that you are cornered, and you Open yourself to all the oppor- our sentiments and thoughts. dermining their character, which caused ad hominem attacks that are running out of reasons to say. tunities of development and be a However, given that they cannot prompts them to shift to defend are already too much to bear. It cannot make you a less person better version of yourself. That see you, and you do not see themselves rather than what they Most people forgot that we live if you admit that you fought is the only way to move forward them too, they can easily render stand for. in contentious times, where our the things you once thought are boundlessly. such ad hominem attacks if your political beliefs and standpoints worth fighting for. post does not suit their beliefs. This situation undoubtedly are quite distinct in nature. With Thus, having a constructive Indeed, it is the best spot where exists most of the time. I saw this, it can be said that Social Nobody wants to feel being public discourse does not mean numerous posts circulating on defeated or a loser, and that is winning over someone, but it is social media, mostly talking perfectly normal to feel. Every- also a matter of respecting your one craves to be on top like no competitor amidst contentions. one can throw their crown. But Be a good influencer of words this attitude is already suffo- and focus on the argument, not cating, especially in aiming for on the person’s character. a healthy discussion in social

06 feature PRIMUM The Official Student Publication of University of Mindanao Illustrations by Jomar Benjamin PANDEMIC TRENDS... NEVERPANDEMIC SHOULD BE TRENDY By Shiny Deborah Rose A. Bullecer The entire whole has given us a new spin of life up to reduce coronavirus spread, people face multiple social landscape. After a record-setting Q1, TikTok saw due to the unprecedented challenge of the social media challenges to keep them going. Thanks to 315 million installs, TikTok has now reached 2 billion all- pandemic. We remain puzzled of our future and social media because it gave us knowledge and some time global downloads through iOS and Android devices. all different feelings are rolled together. Despite our things to make us busy. Who can forget the sudden trend This is thought to be the largest number of downloads in route, though, it seems normal for us Filipinos to be of floppy and creamy Dalgona Coffee? Yeah, it is indeed a single quarter ever for a social media app. Through the happy and find a way to escape fear and difficulties, a Korean coffee drink that is storming over the internet; said app, it helps us to laugh even for once. even for a moment. It does not help fill our heads with Dalgona coffee is like a cappuccino that is s flipped on its meaningless patterns and threats under challenging head, with frothy coffee on top and milk underneath. It Staying home is better when we do planting. The times like the current pandemic to avoid confronting only takes three ingredients to produce, and it can be hot quarantine era took us back surrounded by nature, and the reality of what is indeed occurring. Someday we’ll or cold. The most challenging thing is making your photo someone we know could not agree more for sure, who look back on this moment and we’ll be reminded of right! Moreover, YouTubers and social media influencers may well have turned plantita or plantito while stuck at our unwavering resilience. who reproduced the original short video recipe had better home. And just like them, stars made plant parenting ever luck: they had more than 12 million views at the time of more stylish including Aubrey Miles, Tuesday Vargas, Here are the pandemic trends that have kept our this report and made this coffee more trending. Howev- Gretchen Fullido, and Jinkee Pacquiao. We cannot deny morale high in the wake of pandemic: er, the term Dalgona means ‘Honeycomb Toffee,’ was that creativity is natural for us as Filipino. Also, with the already popular in South Korea in the early 70s and 80s- emergence of budding “plantitos” and “plantitas,” they A car in exchange of 250 sack of rice, vegetables (spice blog). We found Dalgona coffee to be one of the took the opportunity to have an income while enjoying for jewelry, and a bag of grocery items in exchange of early quarantine trends that have emerged throughout this what they love to do. Despite the price tags on plants appliances, you can instantly get what you need with- indefinite and unpredictable period of time when keeping may have been affected, but in fact, there is nothing more out money involved with online barter. This became indoors and preventing social contact has become a new satisfying than just seeing life grow, particularly now that the system of the Filipinos to make it easier to acquire standard for all of us. it is so challenged. necessities by exchanging products. You can get anything except personal protective equipment. However, on July Aside from that, we discovered ourselves with a These are just a few of the things that once made 14, 2020, The Department of Trade and Industry warned far more moment in our arms and less favorable material our lives easier amid the difficulties we face. Online bar- the public that online barter trade is illegal. They encour- around us. These had led many people to turn to social ter, making a creamy dalgona coffee, planting, and having aged online sellers to register with the Department of media to keep things enthusiastic. As the world expects some fun time in TikTok were the things we spent our Trade and Industry and the Bureau of Internal Revenue. an extended time of social distancing, teenagers and even time to escape the sad reality in this time of uncertainty. According to Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez, the barter adults bring people together with ‘’memes’’, video chal- Having quality time for ourselves is so much important trade is illegal and against the law everywhere else in the lenges, and many entertaining things because of TikTok. right now. There is no fault in making ourselves happy, country. Nevertheless, in some parts of Mindanao like The platform is fun, likable, and portrayed in an easily but the stuff we enjoy should always be done in moder- Sulu and Tawi-Tawi, barter trade is allowed. If there is digestible style on the site, making it ideal for browsing ation. Indeed, we are so grateful to be Filipinos because something we have to learn from the crisis we are facing lockdown. This same app’s friendly and interactive natu- we all have these optimistic characteristics and resiliency right now, it is the fact that there is no lasting quality, no ral world is also great for everyone. Research says there that we need during this period to survive the numerous matter how good and amazing things are. is no question that in 2020, TikTok will dominate the challenges our lives have. Furthermore, as most of the population is locked

PRIMUM feature 07 The Official Student Publication of University of Mindanao THE POWER OF MUSIC TO THE WORLD By Jea Piencenaves Photo courtesy: http://www.tri-power.net/show_content.php?id=1494 Cities and provinces from events were conducted around year in the middle of the pan- Photo courtesy: Done Gold Media YouTube Channel different parts of the the world. demic and it happened on April world have imposed 18, 2020. The show is jampacked Photo courtesy: Beyond Live Twitter Account lockdown restrictions, large In the Philippines, the with global famous singers such social gatherings are sternly One Vision, One Cause went as Beyonce, Lady Gaga, Camila Photo courtesy: banned, and the stay-at-home live. It was an online concert Cabello, Shawn Mendes, Taylor metro.style/culture/events/tune-into-one-vision-one-cause/24606 policy has been strictly imple- that took place last April 17, Swift, Celine Dion, Billie Eilish, mented; the pandemic leaves 2020. It was a concert for a cause John Legend, and many more. working artists and performers intended to help the country’s particularly vulnerable and out COVID-19 frontliners. Host- In Mexico, Live from of the center stage especially ed by the special guests Kean Inside, the popular drink brand those who depend their living Cipriano and Chynna Cipriano, 1800 Tequila hailing from in concert tours and live per- the show happened via Facebook Mexico organized this music formances. live which featured musical event starring Lauren Jauregui, performances, thrilling games, former member of the girl group Nonetheless, the media and jamming sessions with many Fifth Harmony, through Insta- and entertainment industry has artists such as real-life music gram Live last May 5. The event found the perfect strategy to couple Gabbi Garcia and Khalil was not just an ordinary online continue giving people the high- Ramos, Laureen Uy, Issa Press- concert but also a fundraising class entertainment they need as man, Miggy Cruz, to name a few. activity where a video stream well as a working opportunity was equivalent to a dollar. The for artists and performers. Now In South Korea, Beyond proceeds will be a donation for that everything can be done Live is the world’s first online Music for Relief. Furthermore, online, music intellectuals took customized paid concert pre- to set the mood on fire and make this chance to put their hundred sented by South Korea’s most it even more intense, a guest percent effort and advancement extensive entertainment agency, mixologist shared how to make over in the virtual world. Amidst the home of many world-famous cocktails with the sponsored the pandemic, concerts and mu- K-Pop acts of today, SM Enter- brand eventually. sic festivals are now even made tainment. The online concert possible as they adapt to the new used advanced AR Technology, This pandemic is indeed normal. Thanks to the fantastic real time 3D graphics, fantastic a disaster for artists and perform- innovation of technology, people stage production, and high- ers, and it will probably take all around the globe can still class performances. The concert a while for the arts and music enjoy music-related events and kicked-off last April 26th of industry to go back to the way performers can still perform even the same year, the concert has it used to. Nevertheless, this if they are not in the actual stage total of 7 shows so far. Fans saw proves that no matter what kind rather in the comforts of their eye-dropping and dynamic per- of catastrophes come along the own space. This proves how the formances coming from artists way, the arts particularly music realm of music has persisted to under SM Entertainment which will never stop giving the world provide the world with joy and includes SuperM, WayV, NCT the exceptional type of healing pleasure that most people expect Dream, NCT127, TVXQ and that the people need. In fact, this and look forward to in these try- Super Junior. The online concert pandemic only made artists, mu- ing times. What is also laudable is a must for fans who missed to sicians, and fans even stronger about online events is that they see their favorite artists perform in continuing their love for their are held for a charitable purpose live because of the current world craft. Despite the current situa- directed to extend help. Over crisis. tion, music’s power will continue the past few months, there are to give comfort and happiness to several live-streaming concerts In the United States, One the world and art is indeed our and physically distanced music World: Together at Home was catharsis. the much-awaited concert of the

08 creatives PRIMUM The Official Student Publication of University of Mindanao Better Off Alone: Grasping One Last Hope An Open Letter to By Jose Maria Salvador N. Araullo the World Illustrations by Marielle Moner By Sherwin Glenn Ali Staring towards the null wall L ife works well when you are in isolation. I grew Closing the hope, as I fall up without hesitating to live life in solitude and was not taught to become dependent to others. Ascend beyond to reminisce Even before this pandemic, my life only revolves by That always drag me ever since keeping my distance in the crowd — even in my own The contagious beast has kissed family which was supposed to be my home. I never learned anything back at home except for one thing; we Neglecting the Abyss are better off alone. For I consume the dreadful sneeze I am not a virus, but everyone’s been treating That halt the blissful ease. me like one. Ever since a child, everything flows with- Rare to walk with tranquility out consideration. It was always been me, myself, and Thinking to vanish in hideous look I who was in isolation. No wonder why I don’t feel any Pinning myself with obscurity changes when this pandemic took place and shattered Oblivion was about to hook. the dreams and lives of every individual. I knew that Alas! Saved from the grievous hook I am weak, I knew that I needed help but one thing is for sure, everything shall come to an end. They say it is Dusk has faded as I look. time to let go of the past, embrace the present, and hold Grasping the beaming light of hope onto the future. How am I supposed to work things out For I shall free myself from death as I cope when I have lived my whole life running towards an unending path and avoiding the crowd? Tomorrow is uncertain but everything is in accordance to His will. I may not be able to change the ugly story I had in the past but I was able to live through the present and that is the best gift from above. This pandemic made us realize that we are weak, we are vulnerable, and that we are broken. This is to made us fall down on our knees and go back to the source of light, hope, courage, and life. That there is no other answer to these worldly sorrow beside Him — His wisdom, His righteousness, in Him alone. We are not better when we are alone. We do not deserve to be in isolation, and distance is not the solution. For in life, we are better in the hands of our God. Be glad, stand still, and rejoice for there’ll be no longer a curse in the world. An Open Letter to Drowned Illustrations by Marielle Moner Uplift Sanity By Keimark Conde Lustria By Jose Maria Salvador N. Araullo I wake from darkness To a touch of buoyant liquid Dear sanity, Tranquil and silent I know that you are tired. I can see how ex- Of water flesh hausted you are from the current situation of the world. But do not give up, for I am here. I truly know that one Embracing the skin day, the sun will shine on us again, just like Loki, the Of a man within brother of Thor, said. You just have to grip yourself A flesh unto flesh because I know that many obstacles will still come through. However, please do your best to grip for the Yet not warm but wintery sake of your people. There’s light overhead You are the one who mold and nurture your And pleasures that fleet people. You are the one who is responsible for remind- For time do answers ing them to fight despite the most challenging trials. With a thief from sea But once you feel tired and weak, you lose out from Reaving his air their sights and eventually turn into a darkness that Out from his breath distorts the mind. Suffocating and fear But please, do not let that happen. I know that His demise unveiled you care for your people. Hang on! We are almost at the end of the tunnel. I know for sure that tranquility will once again consume us, and smiles will be back from our faces. Love, Hope

PRIMUM creatives 09 The Official Student Publication of University of Mindanao Save Me... Gaea’s Reboot By Glennyfer D. Gervacio By Rochel Dave Saavedra Illustrations by Marielle Moner H onestly, this is the strangest thing that I went so far in my life. I was sitting on the highest Holding a void for too long, mountain where I can see the cityscape below Creates beautiful scratches and pain, my feet. It was beautiful yet terrifying at the same time because somehow, even this far, I can clearly see all Want you to come along, the people suffering: the disease that can easily infect Save me from this unbroken chain. a person from the west; calamity that flooded and de- Listen to the song of the million crickets, stroys properties from the east; famine from the north; Roses will bloom under the beam of the moon, plague from the south; too many suffering that even my I will watch you just like I have a thousand movie tickets, eyes can’t fully register. Voices are wailing, crying for Save me from this isolated universe soon. help. My body shivers, and I know it is not just because of the cold night. I badly want to help, but the only Let us look up to the same sky, thing I can do is watch from afar. We are literally far, Wipe my rain of cry, “Why is this happening in this world?!” I mumble to myself, not trying to break my gaze from it. Save me from this place of liar. “It’s a reboot,” a woman’s voice speaks. I look in her Holding the rope of hope for too long, direction with startled eyes, realizing I am not alone. Creates beautiful memories and treasures. The woman is staring at me with her turquoise Then you came along, eyes. She had this beautiful brown skin. So ravishing You save me from my unknown creatures. that it could compare to Earth’s fullest color. Her dress was the brightest emerald that shines in the glint of the Illustrations by Marielle Moner stars. She was the epitome of beauty. The Real Vaccine “A what?!” I ask when I realized that I stared By Justine Anne Miralles too long at her. It’s not just hoping for light and new beginnings. Sometimes it’s sceneries that will melt every “A reboot,” she says again. person’s heart “It’s when I need to execute old boots.” I’m not Unity not coming from commands or sure what she’s talking about, but I don’t like it, espe- from responsibilities, cially when I heard the word execute. But pity made from pure kindness and sincerity. “What do you mean ‘old boots’?” Actions coming from the heart are the best solutions “The virus.” At first, I thought she was talking Seeing people around us with their glittering eyes about the disease, but when she pointed to someone Full of mixed emotions like fear, and courage slowly dying because of a cough and fever, I know that with happiness she’s talking about the people. It’s like a rope that’ll cheer us up firmly “But they are humans!” I exclaimed, not During calamities like this pandemic believing that with her physical beauty lies an unkind Our status is not a credit for survival personality. We shouldn’t think how to survive alone. “Why do you want them to suffer?! They are all But start thinking on how to survive with a lot of people victims!” “Do you ever realized that maybe I’m the victim, that I’m the one who’s damaged and has suf- fered?” Her voice is so calm, yet there’s an edge on it. But I can’t tell whether she is angry or sad. She pauses for a while; her eyes are gazing at the men slowly drowning. I should say something. I should try to argue about what she said, yet there’s a big part of me that believes she’s right. “What’s the name of the little thing you invent- ed that has a screen and typing buttons that all of you can’t get off your eyes on it?” She asks, glancing at me. “Computer?” “Yeah! That’s it.” Then she gives me that rare smile, which reminds me of a sunrise. “What will happen if that thing has full of viruses?” I hesitate for a moment, not knowing where this will be going. “It will damage and will not function?” “Right. And what would you do to restore it?” “You need to--” then I stop, fully realizing everything. “A reboot.” “Absolutely.” Silence is lurking between us for a while. We just stare at what happens to every people suffering. Then something caught my attention. A child who’s crying for help. “But innocent people are suffering as well.” I hear her chuckle, “Virus corrupts good files. You should remember that. Not because I’m the computer doesn’t mean I can control everything that happens in my system.” And at that moment, I know there’s nothing I could argue. “People should realize that I have limits. People should know how to be a good file. So that virus can’t spread and the reboot remains unnecessary.”

10 profile PRIMUM The Official Student Publication of University of Mindanao Know thy Presidents CAE CAFAE CASE CBAE CCE How will you perform your duties How will you perform your duties How will you perform your duties as How will you perform your duties What programs and activities have as president on an online platform? as president in an online platform? president in an online platform? as president in an online platform? you planned for your respective ACachrtmmwmaaaotwaswpahhetvorrsuuauAmvsoiiseeeeaeiamttvwrrseprdaahhktyiEepnb,erthlrnnoeepio.aha,IyeowoetnelnnsilbIuhnmilastnacgriintsvitaebceaimliaselglinylgnomihisy.bnemntfhmtlgpitoloIuiyddticesteiolsfvheoueoliciu,eowlutmosttemprevairaatenytlfoblteinnntldaschaoebeoofpehtynkdopdtn.soefefntrtehsseoToelthorotateimtqtpmarihthrpeeirentg.nu,twflhomcepeeocroldaysgeihilirahoretkcrtsoerrs.aermnurmotloaeiiuNteluasfessdotfneviotssiscsdoeslgeaucnahmpnuraoienwetnoleldmcosoedrshugrnynteeeocwlnovewyeranticntdmmfeftsytbemociseephhatiuttldtbaorroyiclehhealmutycamns.iiuft,itielfddyeiW,nimnyeovatssueeircilnyteitaeitiistlrehesss Being the President of the CAFAE- For leaders, challenge of thoughtfully, departments in this new normal? CSG School Year 2020-2021, I purposefully, and effectively leading I am not really into social media IdstCwtaeeCilriplesvlEnaejbrutwestasmsetashenoleikodunk/wrteoteocgninaanelmistnlnreyeaw.dermIaottaalrusilkaserwsaniosneltefslmlcheboaveubsmertleriypity.nwoewthnoiietluelirroen. will perform my duties and desire during a time of crisis is all - and I am not the type of person who How will you perform your duties in an online world by optimizing encompassing. Being the Student enjoys the spotlight. I just work as president in an online platform? the opportunities of social media Government President of CASE behind and as part of the people I will perform my duties by being platforms. We all know that online Department amidst this Pandemic who work from behind curtains. always active and approachable to platforms are important parts of and they so called “New Normal” Students often made statement such the students especially when there is the digital world. For me, based is a big challenge for us, together as “Kuya, you’re the vice-president any concern about our department. on what is happening currently, with my co-officers Team 20-21. We pala?” because when they saw me What is your message to your social media platforms are strong had been encountering struggles in an event, I am just there working constituents? drivers of innovation, information and challenges, new things. That as the backbone. I do not want to be I’m looking forward for your dissemination wise, and have played being said, being the president of called as “President” although it is cooperation and let’s work hard for a crucial role in everyone’s digital the Student Government, I will act somehow appropriate because I want the betterment of our department. world. I will grab the opportunity as a representative of the student equality. I want fairness in the sense Stay healthy and active. of using convenient social media body to the whole department. To that no one is either above or below. platforms to be my rallying point characterize trust, courage, and In planning, I also want the decision- in making my college great again. I quality of Decisions. Having a strong making to commence and to hear will use it to my advantage that even personal connection is everything. the ideas. Let us talk, let us make a though we are physically distant Get knowledge about the etiquettes debate and weigh the pros and cons. from each other, using efficient in cyber word and online flatforms, social media platforms can make us being tech savvy and leading towards more virtually engaged. I will use a distance communication. Promote my platform of influence to amplify advocacies that may encourage and voices and unify CAFAngga and inspire our students. And being there my college to rage as one of those for my team is a big impact for the colleges that will be successful for success of our student government. this fiscal year. NOURINE JOY E. YERRO VIBONIE A. MACALAM RHEICY BIEN VALDEZ DENNIS CANUBAS BrPiHxIJLoBhEnRTNCoOvNasCtOeNras college of accounting education college of architecture and fine arts education college of arts and sciences education COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION EDUCATION CCOOLLLLEEGGEE OOFFcCoOmMpPuUtiTnIgNeGdEuDcUatCiAoTnION CCJE CEE CHE CHSE CTE How will you perform your duties How will you perform your duties How will you perform your How will you perform your duties How will you perform your duties as president in an online platform? as president in an online platform? duties as president in an online as president in an online platform? as president in an online platform? It’s a little bit challenging for us This is a very tough question, to platform? Well, I have been in the CHSE-CSG I think it was my destiny that especially the officers that we must be honest since I am traditional Presidents are designed to help for three consecutive years now. I got elected this year because perform our duties online, but we and antiquated [leader] so, shifting keep the college in order and to When I was a freshman I was elected cmsoftoahoofncfyacmiletciisn-aemIttlerrocsmeu-mannafneagroidccetarheialeaastslieotarsihtepmfutaaephnadoeletilyrivceouteadhntwrtieaibloatthiaozfnmelablnsttyhy.eioiIeoctcnarcopiuas-ioonnstfiehnartu are still trying to give our best. As everything online is very new and run smoothly. During this time as vice president, then become an of my lengthy messages in our a president in our department, I complex. A monumental adjustment of uncertainty, I would adhere of auditor on my second year, and now group chat. Online platform is my have to motivate my co-officers to is just an understatement. However, being committed and responsible as the president and internal vice- amtssephttnnauryegcdedoendCeouguinTtfrtththEaytsehg.’rtSaieIhnsniyFrngaoanafloctuwdehergedabemhdiymotsaipaoo.tnrtkiInooon,apmnocmIahuoocgenrtaaecicnlnmktweogpmtiaghteyhehresnfetotsrm continue attending in everybody’s I did not let myself become stagnant to anything as to lift my president of CCSG. At first, I thought as well to message me directly. In concern. Leading is not easy and static about it, instead, I unlearn reputation. Through this online these experiences would be sufficient fact, I received plenty of messages especially today that we are facing and learn things, and everything platform, it would be their great for me to cope with the new normal, rifaItdtrhecaeosrecyvpemoeoabounncentnhhecsdteapeswidu.nefhsingtreootsttoaootfhypwtetehehaerepreeaisokrtLeidminMdnutertShtshihnseceaalgoiptgrntieInhLfswugeMtsahfaiSisonarntsdt. a pandemic but with the help of comes to appease. Since, everything source of information, learning only to realize. In this new normal, everyone, we will get through it all. is online, I am available 20 hours a materials and also to connect with with online platforms, the most day and supervise the events well people. effective way to govern is through What is your message to your roundedly. It is about putting your communication. The common issues constituents? mind in the right setting. So, as to What is your message to your of students are the academic loads, We, the new set of leaders will serve how I will perform, I am not alone constituents? the schedule inappropriateness, the as a role model to all of you, specially in this journey, together with my My message would be padayon behavior of their classmates and to all freshmen. And with sincerity, officers and staffers, we will do what (continue). Padayon to inspire, professors (in terms of disagreement we will do our very best to respond is expected of us and will continue to educate, to extend help and be and abuses), and they need someone for all your concerns. We may be to outdo what we have done so far. the voice and to amplify that voice close to the offices to resonate their suffering a pandemic today, but it is We, the council, will perform to on behalf of the college and the voices and ask for formal and legal not a hindrance to help you all. remember, and we will perform to students. We also have to remain intervention, and I am that person, I leave a mark. motivated and committed despite will always be that person and I will of what’s happening. Moreover, we use the best of my limit power to should unite as one. help them. NINORY S. MATA SHELDON ALLEN P. SALUTA CHRISTIAN DALE DEMAIN FREDERICK A. PRADAS EDWELL VINCENT ROJAS college of criminal justice education COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING EDUCATION college of hospitality education college of health and sciences education college of teacher education

PRIMUM infotainment 11 The Official Student Publication of University of Mindanao music review With over 3.1M views and 150,000 Among Us is an intellectual game that is game review sales in the first 3 hours of its most fun when no one cheats and release, the latest single “曜 (SUN- players being respectful and not overly R1SE)” from the Chinese group R1SE gained a paranoid. It is a game of 80% intelligence lot of overwhelmingly positive feedback from and 20% luck: with 80% intelligence of being both Mainlanders and international fans. crews and impostors and 20% luck with the From their generic-yet-cool style of the voting chance of 8/10 total players in a single song that did not tailor the group’s distinct round. style during their debuting album, this time, they are welcoming the light and have returned But this game gets dull and tedious as to tear the dark moment of dawn. you practice all the tips and tricks. For exam- The song uses light and jumping ple, being an impostor involves first clearing electronic sounds and mysterious and rhyth- the camera room and successfully killing the mic elements of Morse codes, which adds a players. And as a crewmate, they will quickly sense of maturity to the youthful spirit from deduce impostors by sticking to the most trust- R1SE- SUNR1SE its arrangement to its choreography. It does worthy and safest player while watching others AMONG US not only integrate it into the music as a timbre do their job. By Edmalyn R. Canton By Jaiben Lloyd A. Alabado instrument but also connects choreographic actions with it. The name “R1SE” is written in An impostor can pretend to do the work, a code to convey the identity of fearless and courageous young men expressing the but if the impostor has completed the planned transformation and attitude of R1SE, incisively and vividly. job and the taskbar has not been set up, crews can trap them. Or by completing a The lyrics have a strong imagery, which makes people wonder the story specific task, such as shooting meteors, the turret shooting animation can be seen about a teenager, the Earth, and the universe, breaking the code and walked with when it is completed right because if the player completes the mission and the turrets the light with the breaking of dawn. don’t switch, he’s an impostor. According to R1SE Vin Zhou, the leader and center of the group, their Other tips include leaving two random players in the room and then coming time is limited as a temporary boy group who are formed under the Tencent show back to see some kills made. Or for a more complicated approach left with four ‘Produce Camp 2019’. They must show the world their individual vocal colors players in which one is an impostor, let the most suspect and trustworthy one stay in and styles. This moment is their most shining time, the light that broke the night is dawn, and dawn is sunrise, and the sunrise is R1SE. Any UMian can surely your group, thus allowing the 4th player to do his work. If the mission bar increases, understand how the music translates to real life, and how to cherish the good times, the most suspicious in your group is the impostor, and vice versa. It is getting dull especially if you have already a deadline in time. With this time limit, everyone can for me right now, believe me. shine and create the best versions of themselves. movie review The Princess Switch is a Christmas Nowadays, some of Thailand’s latest BL SERIES review Netflix film released last November 16, (Boys Loves Series) offerings have 2018, directed by Michael Rohl. High begun to be dull and bleak. Neverthe- School Musical’s Vanessa Hudgens starred in less, it is a good thing that we told the sunset the movie, along with Sam Palladio and Nick about this dilemma. The sun finally shone Sagar. It also showed how versatile Hudgens brightly with hope as the new series, “I Told was with her two facially identical roles but Sunset About You” (ITSAY), brought light to with different personalities. the world of BL fans. Stacy and Margaret are two girls with The love tale of Teh (Billkin) and Oh- the same features but not related and living aew (PP) began when the same dream of being with two distinct worlds. Stacy is a baker from an actor had ripped their friendship when they Chicago who wants to have a prince charming were kids. Yet their paths collided again with who will take her to the moon. Margaret is a resentment, as they expected to prepare for Duchess who wants to be out from the royalties university exams. When they restore friendship and be normal. However, things are changed and embrace each other, they keep ruminating THE PRINCESS when they met on the same trail, which will about life and love that they haven’t seen it I TOLD SUNSET SWITCH mark a tremendous change in their lives. develop in a while. The plot lines of ITSAY ABOUT YOU The film is naturally in a Christmas setting. It By Jose Maria Salvador has a historical touch in the early exposition showcased their dream-driven roles and the By Philip John Daguipa N. Araullo of the movie, which later served as a bridge to aspiration that could bind their viewers along connect the present’s happenings. Since it has a the storyline and that there’s more to Teh and lot of life lessons to give, it is something that we should watch during this season for Oh-aew than just two boys in a love tale. It it let us realize how switching of roles can be destiny’s call in finding our true selves opens new possibilities to address a number of nuances in the coming-of-age series. It that marks who we are. Also, it enlightens us that the Christmas season is always also looked at the difficulties of young adults, which are frequently taken for granted about giving than receiving; a life that we cannot even imagine could exist that will and used as incentives to build characters. eternally fuel ourselves. From stunningly gorgeous cinematography, original musical score, and seam- Furthermore, we UMians are already bombarded with many schoolworks and less editing, it went all the way to give ITSAY all the praises it deserves. After all, the distressful moments during the pandemic. It’s time for us to breathe out and relax as series resonates to all of us in a way that we learn to embrace differences and knowing we feel emotionally excited this Christmas, for we will witness Margaret and Stacy that even in the periods of our most turbulent situations as students, we always need find their happiness and true love, which will also serve as a lesson for all of us. someone to get by our side which reflects to one of our core values— teamwork. I WISH... By Marielle Moner WORD SEARCH Social Distancing Face mask Sanitizer Alcohol Tissue Safety Covid Face Shield Barrier Quarantine Lockdown Trend Dalgona Plant Games Pandemic Barter China Vaccine Virus

12 u-speak PRIMUM The Official Student Publication of University of Mindanao U-SPEAK! As someone who needs to make a If it is for the good of the people and plan not to get lost in this labyrinth it does not violate human rights, it wil jane pesana called life, the pandemic seems like a is good for me. Although these laws simon miles 1st yr bs accountancy set of traps and holes that undoubtedly might have taken a bit of our freedom, makes me stumble and fall, and worse it does not take the fact that it is for shaira panilag redirects me to a completely unknown our safety. I am just hoping that their um alumni (batch 2018) void. I lost my job during the first implemented laws will reflect effec- few months of the lockdown, which tive actions against the pandemic. simon miles camanzo entirely altered my plan as to how I 3rd yr bs chemical engineering should uphold my mere existence. I I honestly think that wearing face did convince myself that perhaps, it is masks and face shields, curfew hours, jaremiah sapong a breather from working my fingers to and physical distancing are such best case department- professor the bone — to reevaluate my deci- ways to fight the pandemic. But, I felt sions in life and make some adjust- it is too much when the government helen grace alabado ments. But when the night was dead specifically, Davao City, implemented um alumni (batch1990) silent, the loudest scream that I could the QR codes. I find communication hear was my anxiety, saying I can and strategic planning very poor. do more than just watching series or The transmission on how to acquire, jaremiah reading books; that instead of burying where to use, and eligible individuals her in the depths of hell, I should find to obtain QR codes was not clear. On a way to pull myself out from the rut. the other hand, the seniors are having It was so exhausting to fight with your a hard time accessing due to their weakness, but the good thing is now, technological restrictions. I gradually find my groove to go back on the track to endlessly strive and get shairah If these laws being implemented aim out of this maze — to achieve better to plummet the Covid-19 cases in an living conditions. instant, then their goal is excellent. It is those hard-headed people who primum How does the outbreak of How do you adapt to the would violate the law, even if they the Covid-19 affect your life? “new normal” lifestyle? already know anything that is against the quarantine laws, are subject to primum imprisonment. Maybe the govern- ment’s implementation is adequate, The coronavirus has changed on how It is a reminder to me that God has a wil jane but it lacks more conviction to have helen grace the way I work, play, and learn. I purpose for why this thing happen. an impactful non-tolerance intensity. often wish to stay at home before, but Also, time made me adapt to the I never thought about how I love my changes. As time goes by, I just found freedom when the pandemic started. myself adapting since I have no other Right now, I am working at home, and choice. honestly, it is affecting me socially, emotionally, and physically. Not being jaremiah I created a space in my backyard for To deal with this intangible adver- able to speak to friends and see people gardening, I learned how to cook sary, the only way to contain its I see on a regular basis is hard for me. the food I wanted to cook, and I had rapid escalation is to implement laws Looking on the brighter side, now established a stronger relationship and regulations to somehow control that school is closed for the rest of the with the Lord through praying and the movement of people within the year, it gives me more time to be pro- reading the Gospel. As a public school vicinity wherein the virus is existing. ductive and to give time for myself. elementary teacher, the Department But that now begs the question, “how I may not be used to staying at home of Education has issued us many we- would such regulation supervise peo- and working on my computer, but that binars. Because of that, I am forcing ple if they are not well executed on does not mean I cannot do it. I am myself to learn how to use gadgets the ground?” We cannot argue the fact human, so I will learn to adapt. The correctly since we are working from that the city government only aims to pandemic may have paused our daily home. I did learn it eventually without contain the virus that cripples not only duties and routines, but that does not asking for any assistance from my our healthcare system but also our mean we will stop. Life goes on. children. economy. But the way they imple- mented their executive and adminis- helen grace trative orders has confused its con- stituents. Indeed, there was no vague Because of the outbreak, I find life As much as I do not want to accept shairah order in the guidelines as the provi- worse as it was. It is because I must this “new normal” lifestyle for some sions were stated [though some of it cope with isolation and lack of social personal reasons, living with this kind are open to question], but checkpoint interaction, also because it is harder of condition is the only way to keep personnel who are administering these to earn income. It also stressed me out my sanity. protocols should be on the same page because of online classes and some so that they will be able to address the lessons are hard to understand alone. simon miles I learn to look on the brighter side of people’s concern regarding this matter shairah However, the outbreak also made me wil jane life, such as doing the things I could and to penalize the violators fairly. In reflect on a lot of things, and it helped not do before. Now, I can give more the end, we all want to go back to how me become more productive. time reading my books, focusing on our lives used to be before this crisis my thesis paper, binge-watching, ruined everything. It does not affect my life significant- giving extra and more effort to my ly. However, my freedom has been lessons, and sleeping late at its finest! jaremiah limited since there are places I wanted to go for requisite and urgent transac- I stand negatively against the imple- tions, but I cannot due to restrictions. mented laws during this pandemic because the government seems like I can say that I used to live a simple The first months of the new normal overreacting to the pandemic. As a wil jane life when I was a kid, but this pan- was a hassle, but after a couple of Christian, I know this is their initial demic has caused me a lot of worries. weeks, I started getting used to it. step to control the people and get Honestly, I am worrying a lot because Instead of worrying about what I lost ready for the worse time coming soon. it is hard to live with restrictions in all because of the pandemic, I began places that are outside my house. I am to focus on productive things like Thank you very much for answer- thinking about my two children who harnessing my skills, learning new ing our questions. Your answers will are being stranded away from us. I am things, and watching entertainment reflect on how people adapt the new worried about how to sustain the lim- that makes me happy. lifestyle and how people of differ- ited resources that we had. At this age, ent ages adjust to this disastrous we need medicines and supplements simon miles pandemic. to relieve the pain that we have. In summary, it is a hassle and daunting primum What is your stand about the laws time of my life. implemented in Davao City during this pandemic? helen grace primum