JUL-AUG2020

TRUTH BEYOND KNOWING VOLUME 65 NUMBER 3 · JULY TO AUGUST 2020 EDITORIAL COVID RESPONSE LOANS As the country’s debt swells up to trillions with consecutive loans for the COVID-19 response, The Spectrum calls for the government’s just use of the nation’s wealth. read on page 4 D A G WAY TIGWAHANON-MANOBO DOCTOR Tigwahanon-Manobo Lasallian inspires fellow dreamers by becoming his tribe’s first doctor. read on page 11 DAKBANWA BACOLOD BIOLAB Sa tubang sang kadulom, padayon ang pakigbato sang Bacolod paagi sa pagpatukod sang pinakauna nga Level 3 testing laboratory sa Pilipinas. read on page 13 VANTAGE POINT SONAgkaisang Bacolod hnefgarrBideeaeertnkzaeaemt!acodSchanha.?tidhWvCesemharaziilncra!ge Sa paghiliusa para sa kinamatarung sang kadam- an, gindul-ong sang aton mga kauturan ang ila Lasallian community pagpakighiugyon sa mga dalan sang siyudad para sa ikalima nga State of the Nation Address sang pangulo. read on page 8 ANIMORPHOSIS. Golden Champion 2008, Gerhard Krysstopher performs “Somewhere” by Barbra Streisand during the live online concert held by the USLS student government.—KARL BRIAN T. MARQUEZA amasses over 100k in online fundraising concert BY PAULA MAE E. VILLAROSA the disadvantaged members which seeks to create support and the Artists’ Hub. President Nimrod Diaz broadcast of a mass offered WITH REPORTS FROM SHAN MARC O. JABAGAT of their community during programs for underprivileged “We distributed the expressed, further sharing by Rev. Fr. Jerryvel Celestial the pandemic, broadcasted members of the Lasallian that the funds raised would be at the university chapel, The University of St. La Salle live on the Official USLS community in the fulfillment solicitation letters and started used to provide educational and was opened through (USLS) came together for Facebook page on August 14. of the founder’s mission, advertising this event on our vouchers for students the university’s page with a ANIMORPHOSIS: Breaking in collaboration with the page in early July […] We asked and financial assistance prayer led by the USLS Chorale Through the New Normal, an The fundraiser was the colleges, USLS offices, for everyone’s help, especially for school personnel. through a song rendition. online benefit concert, raising brainchild of the University alumni, Parents-Teachers those who have kind hearts, ANIMORPHOSIS was an average of P100,000 in aid of Student Government’s (USG) Council, Liceo De La Salle, to donate any amount for preceded by a live Facebook NEWS / PAGE 3 flagship program USG CARES, this cause,” USG Executive Classes ensue in USLS Negrense activists unite vs. SONA 2020 enrollees for the College of mobile phones and desktop Medicine. computers or laptops; and BY ALAN S. VILLANUEVA JR. Additionally, the university category 3 for those with stable continued the implementation connection, the stated devices, The bell has rung for the of distance learning primarily and other related resources. FIGHT. League of Filipino Students-Bacolod protesting to junk the Anti-Terrorism University of St. La Salle as through online platforms. Act at Bacolod Public Plaza last July 27.—KARL BRIAN T. MARQUEZA the Academic Year 2020-2021 Specifically, students who began on August 17 despite “We cannot stop it. We belong to category 3 proceed BY KYNAH RHEA B. FUENTES AND (NUJP), League of Filipino disregarding the urgency the health crisis with a total of cannot prevent it. We can just with the online classes through KIARA NICOLE D. VILLA to combat the COVID-19 5,678 enrollees from the five ride with it,” Brother President applications like Canvas and pandemic. colleges. and Chancellor Joaquin Zoom; those in categories 2A As President Rodrigo Duterte Severino Martinez stressed in and 2B either utilize similar delivered his fifth State of the “Personally, there is no good According to the university support of the “new normal” channels or use Facebook Nation Address (SONA) last July that Duterte can do that can registrar, the enrollment data in education during the VCAA and Messenger, or anything 27, various progressive groups ever wipe out the 30,000 deaths per college are as follows: Conversation last August 4. accessible; and those in and human rights organizations [...] I think it’s very clear that he 2,632 enrollees for the Yu An category 1 acquire modules across the country protested has no intention whatsoever of Log College of Business and To elaborate, students are monthly from the school. and expressed their sentiments overturning the damage he has Accountancy (YAL-CBA); 1089 categorized into their internet on the administration. done for the past four years,” for the College of Engineering connectivity status namely: “Both me and my students #SONAgkaisa NUJP chairman Nonoy Espina and Technology; 859 for the category 1 for those without are adapting and adjusting asserted. College of Arts and Sciences; connection, mobile devices, to this new way of learning,” Joining the nationwide 755 for the College of Nursing; and desktop computers or YAL-CBA Business Economics #SONAgkaisa held at the Representatives took turns and 343 for the College of laptops; category 2A for those Chairperson Dante Gustilo Bacolod City public plaza in airing their organization’s Education. with limited connection and described his experience were the National Union of grievances, voicing their at least own mobile devices; during the start of the semester. Journalists of the Philippines disappointments with the The data further disclosed category 2B for those with that there are 166 enrollees limited connection and own However, he recalled NEWS / PAGE 3 for the College of Law and 282 instances when students Students-Bacolod (LFS), Bagong got disconnected from online meetings which he addressed by creating a Alyansang Makabayan- Facebook group where the Negros, Partido Manggagawa, educational materials may Kalipunan ng Damayang be downloaded. Mahihirap, and National In line with this, Federation of Sugar Workers. according to Kenneth John Rallyists gave Duterte Romantico, the University a failing mark for his Student Assistant performance during his President and a second- term in their speeches, year college student under emphasizing how Filipinos the modular program, his have been deprived of human problems mainly include rights and highlighting the the heavy workload and prioritization of the recently the lack of stable internet signed Anti-Terror Law (ATL), UNUSUAL SETTING. Online and modular learning is being offered to students from despite massive opposition, pre-school to college via the shiftED program.—INOCENCIO JOHN KEITH B. FERRER V NEWS / PAGE 3 E-MAIL [email protected] FACEBOOK facebook.com/thespectrumusls ISSUU issuu.com/thespectrumusls INSTAGRAM @thespectrum.usls TWITTER @TheSpectrumUSLS

NEWS 2 JULY TO AUGUST 2020 | VOLUME 65 NO. 3 USLS to continue scholarship assistance amidst the pandemic, online classes BY MA. KRISTINE JOY R. BAYADOG AND we are still assessing if we ADRIANNE H. SAPLAGIO will approve new scholarship Even when the university applications,” ASAO Director Diahnne Debbie Diaz-Salud started off with the academic shared when asked whether year shifting to an online mode of learning, the scholarships will be provided by the school this academic financial burden of university year. fees still remained the same. However, considering Salud also added that no new scholarship applications the current uncertainty for varsity, cultural, and surrounding online classes and the existing health Student Assistantship Program will be catered by crisis, the Admissions and the university this academic Scholarship Administrative Office (ASAO) assured that year. That being said, the scholarship grants of the situation does not bode well university’s current student scholars will still carry on. for incoming freshmen who were originally planning to After students’ queries, apply for the aforementioned ASAO granted an interview in order to clear existing scholarships. The university has been scholarship concerns like forced to put these programs the continuance of the scholarship grant or if the on hold on account of the position the pandemic has school will provide additional placed them in. benefits to scholars despite the pandemic. As per Salud, online classes would not be easy for the “We will continue the students who rely on being scholarship of the existing scholars as long as they have student scholars as some of them do not have the required maintained the retention devices and stable internet policy […] For this school year, OFFERING ASSISTANCE. Student assistants continue to go on duty to help with connection. office/administrative operations.—INOCENCIO JOHN KEITH B. FERRER V Bacolodnons stand for OSA spearheads tuition ABS-CBN, press freedom dialogue, answers concerns BY DREXEL JOHN N. AMIT AND percent and will be used for MN, explained that as clinical LANCE CHRISTIAN M. JUAREZ equipment maintenance, exposures were converted BY CARL HASON T. GERALE AND a wide reach, how much information for the people, software subscription, and to simulation activities, a HANA PATRICIA RAJ E. HAUTEA more to the small news thereby compromising To address the inquiries of preparation for classroom simulation fee, which was cut WITH REPORTS FROM KIARA NICOLE D. VILLA outlets in the communities the constitutionally students regarding the tuition down from P5,000 to P1,500, and provinces?” Espina guaranteed right to fees and discuss the ins-and- will take its place instead. expressed. information on matters of outs of flexible learning, the instruction in the second public concern. Office for Student Affairs semester. Similarly, the FAQ When the media is silenced, The protest followed the (OSA) live streamed CONVO: When asked about the explained that classes with the people speak out. announcement that the “We heed the call of A Dialogue with the Office for laboratory activities will be Over 100 Bacolodnons network’s local stations the times and speak up. Student Affairs last July 17 on medical and dental fee, taught using pre-recorded across the country will We condemn that which Facebook Live. University Controller videos for students to study. demonstrated their cease operations on August undermines the common Director Vienna Isabel support for ABS-CBN 31, affecting 81 workers good. We condemn The OSA also posted a The FAQ also elaborated following the denial of from its Bacolod station. that which disregards Frequently Asked Questions Gonzaga stated: “Some of on queries regarding flexible established rights,” Bishop (FAQ) infographic on the proceeds will be utilized learning, explaining that the latter’s appeal for a “Journalists must resist Buzon declared. August 10, highlighting key to purchase sets of personal category 1 and 2 students new franchise through a the further attempt of this Noise Barrage and information from the event. will be provided with solidarity rally in front of government to shackle the Motorcade protective equipment in printed modules and pdf press,” Espina continued, During the open forum keeping the campus COVID- files as teachers facilitate the network’s local station, explaining that there is a The final part of the segment, students asked free.” each student’s concerns and a rosary prayer outside the crucial need for free access event, which was organized about the retention of various schedule pick-up dates for Bishop’s House, and a noise to information especially by private individuals, fees in their statements of Withcontinuedoperations, their materials. at this time and that was participated by an account including utilities the Parents-Teachers Council barrage and motorcade journalists must be able to additional 100+ vehicles as and services, various student and community service Furthermore, the OSA from the Provincial Capitol do their job without fear they protested by honking activity fees, and the tuition addressed the possible last July 18. of being threatened and and raising their fists while fee. fees were retained while, in power interruptions and harassed. driving to ABS-CBN’s local striving to provide students connectivity issues students Solidarity Rally Rosary for Democracy station. On library fees, Learning quality service, the student may face during their classes: Marchel Espina, Resource Center Head “The faculty are tasked to president of the National Furthermore, Bacolod The decision to deny Ma. Girlie De Guzman, publication fee increased by work closely with students in Bishop Patricio Buzon and the network’s franchise MS, justified that it is for 12 percent. order to provide the options Union of Journalists of the ADSUM Diocese of application was imposed library maintenance and On the other hand, and assistance they need.” the Philippines-Bacolod Bacolod spearheaded the by the House Committee subscriptions to instructional Chapter, shared that their “Rosary for Democracy”. on Legislative Franchises and research materials for the laboratory, sportsfest, Lastly, they explained last July 10, with 70 students’ online resources. U-Week, and student that the tentative plan for organization prepared the In a statement issued by members adopting the handbook fees were halved, the second semester is to demonstration to show the bishop, he said that rejection, 11 dismissing it, Moreover, De Guzman shift to Blended Learning, solidarity to their friends the denial of ABS-CBN’s three inhibiting, and one also explained the audio- while the University Student wherein online, distance, and franchise application has abstaining. visual fee saying that it Government and energy in-person learning will be at ABS-CBN Bacolod. silenced a major source of has been reduced by 10 fees were slashed by about utilized. “The denial of ABS- CBN’s franchise is a big 33 percent and 38 percent of their original amounts, blow to democracy and respectively. freedom of the press. If the government can do On nursing students’ clinical affiliation fee, College that to a big network with of Nursing Dean Ivy Edemni, Batch ‘20 to march this September BY HANA PATRICIA RAJ E. HAUTEA AND two ceremonies, one at 9 AM However, guests are health and safety of their Meanwhile, there will no graduation ceremony— EZRA CHRISLAINE L. ORTEGA not permitted to attend sons and daughters that longer be a Baccalaureate and the other at 1 PM, while and may instead utilize we will not allow parents Mass due to the lack of time they will just postpone the Facebook livestream and guests,” University attributed to having two Face-to-face graduation the College of Law will join that will be recording the Registrar Paolo Valladarez ceremonies in one day. it, and they will plan for a entire program, akin to conveyed. rites for the academic the Graduate School for a the College of Medicine’s The University Registrar ceremony which considers graduation that occurred Furthermore, physical also emphasized that the year 2019-2020 will push morning ceremony. last July 27. distancing and wearing decisions may change primarily the health and of masks will be strictly depending on the re- through under Modified An estimated 500 “We will relay to [the observed, and graduates evaluation of the quarantine safety of the graduates [...] graduates] our request will be advised to come statuses of Bacolod City and General Community undergraduates are for understanding to earlier to comply with Negros Occidental. whatever the mode is,’’ their parents and their security and health Quarantine on September expected to march, relatives—that it’s for the protocols at Gate 2. “[The administrators] Valladarez confirmed. will never cancel the 22 and 29 for Undergraduate although the actual number Expected dates for the and Graduate Schools, of attendees is yet to be graduation rehearsals respectively, at the finalized as a survey will are on Sept. 18 for University Coliseum. still be given to graduates undergraduate colleges The undergraduate regarding their decision to and Sept. 25 for Graduate colleges will be divided into participate in the ceremony. School and College of Law. THE OFFICIAL STUDENT MEDIA CORPS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE · USLS STUDENT ACTIVITY CENTER, LA SALLE AVE., BACOLOD CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL 6100 · VOLUME 65 NUMBER 3 · JULY TO AUGUST 2020

JULY TO AUGUST 2020 | VOLUME 65 NO. 3 NEWS 3 Liceo students raise 20k to help frontliners BY DREXEL JOHN N. AMIT AND ANGELA A. CORONEL Through Project BAYOnihan, four students from Liceo- De La Salle turned over Php 20,000.00 to Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson on July 14 to give aid to Negrense frontliners. In confiding the money to the provincial government, John Christian Kho, Don Santillan, Jaren Kilayko, and Justin Villanueva represented the said project—mainly composed of Liceo students— which raised funds by designing, producing, and selling Hangawày shirts. Project BAYOnihan Public Relations Team representative Ryle Kayden Sarmiento shared that social media posts showing the lack of PPEs in hospitals motivated them in establishing the project. “Since [...] we did not have much things to do during our ECQ time, we decided to grab the opportunity to think of PHOTO COURTESY OF PROJECT BAYONIHAN something that can help [...] that they called their product made their project successful decided to stick with the Project BAYOnihan’s future Meanwhile, Project our frontliners,” Sarmiento Hangawày shirt—Hangawày was doing it with purpose, Hangawày shirt since it endeavors; and when asked of stated. being a Hiligaynon term utilizing their connections, would be easier to sell,” his message to the frontliners BAYOnihan also plans to meaning warrior—to signify and being practical about Sarmiento explained. he expressed: “We are all very produce masks and tote bag According to Sarmiento, that frontliners are “fighters their decisions. grateful for your hard work. designs aside from their more than raising funds, the in the midst of the pandemic”. Furthermore, Sarmiento [...] I hope we made you happy message that the shirt brings “We actually thought thanked all of their patrons, with this initiative.” shirts to widen the array of Sarmiento added that what of many products [...] but hoping for their support on their products and help more is also important, explaining people in the future. BCD dispenses 2nd tranche of SAP FUNDRAISING CONCERT with Brother President and Chancellor Joaquin Severino take the risk of exploring Martinez, FSC’s message. the new frontier with faith, and to brave all the odds of serving The USG claimed that this don’t need to go and visit tranche, but after validation the government’s subsidy our fellowmen as we share was only the first of the many BY HANA PATRICIA RAJ E. HAUTEA any alternative payment conducted by the DSSD program. and commune in the mission,” fundraisers they prepared centers,” Ma. Jose Jerry Lipa, Office for Student Affairs for this academic year, as The Department of Social a beneficiary from Brgy. 6, regional and central offices, “This is a tremendous help Dean Rowela Chiu imparted Diaz said that they will not Services and Development shared. it was reduced to 97,000. to our people at a time when be cancelling yearly activities (DSSD) in Bacolod City Additionally, an estimated our economy is feeling the in her opening remarks. and instead ‘reimagine’ finished disseminating the Head of DSSD-Bacolod effects of this health crisis. The opening remarks was them with compliance to second tranche of the Social Pacita Tero explained that the P188.5 million of the second This will go a long, long way succeeded by the colleges’ the implemented protocols. Amelioration Program (SAP) cash grant was distributed tranche budget went to the in helping needy families,” to 97,266 beneficiaries after per barangay and that 15,713 recipients who did not Leonardia expressed. welcoming messages, various “The USG is here to distribution began last July barangays were required to performances from the support and help our fellow 23. provide one venue per 1,000 avail of the first tranche in The SAP, also known as students and alumni of the Lasallians in the midst of SAP beneficiaries. the Emergency Subsidy college unit and Liceo De La this crisis. We are doing our Each recipient received April. Program, grants cash aid to Salle, Golden Voice champions, best to provide activities that P6,000 for one month or However, those who The digital distribution for families qualified as “low- would cater [to] the needs a total of P12,000 for two have received grants the “left-out” beneficiaries income households” and is previous Lasallian events of the Lasallians especially months, which left the from the Social Security headed by the Department winners, and the Artists’ Hub. in times like this where budget for the second wave System, Department of covered both portions of the of Social Welfare and Furthermore, the support and care for oneself, of emergency cash aid at Labor and Employment, or SAP grant and resumed on Development under the others, and the community P583.6 million for Bacolod Department of Agriculture Aug. 5 after a delay last July Bayanihan to Heal As One program climaxed with is needed,” Diaz highlighted. City alone. were not eligible for the Act. the USG’s Animovement second tranche of SAP. 27. presentation and topped off “We received the cash aid Furthermore, Mayor In Western Visayas, only through the door-to-door Tero further elaborated Evelio Leonardia stated that Iloilo province, Iloilo City, process again, and this is that the city had 98,143 SAP with more than 113,000 and Bacolod City were convenient for me since I beneficiaries during the first family-beneficiaries in granted the second tranche. ACTIVISTS UNITE its enactment; the government the city, the majority of showed nothing but disdain more than half a million administration, and calling for human rights as proven by residents would benefit from on the government for urgent the thousands upon thousands action with their concerns. of extra-judicial killings, the bogus war on drugs, and the Father Chris Gonzales of repressive campaigns against the Diocese of Bacolod, who legal activists,” the coalition’s was also present in the said position paper read. rally, expressed: “We should continue to uphold human The paper further contested rights and press freedom, and the ATL, as according to the watch out for everyone’s health coalition: (1) it violates the during the pandemic [...] We are constitution and human the citizens here [and] this is rights; (2) it can be used by the our country, [so] we should be admin to repress critics in the heard.” opposition; and (3) it threatens to arrest even ordinary people United People’s Conference who express dissent. Prior to the demonstration, “The greatest problem that the United People’s Conference the youth is facing right now at the Negros Press Club was is the opening of classes next aired via Facebook Live hours month, despite still not having before the president’s SONA, mass testing, clear health wherein representatives from protocols, and contact tracing different sectors convened to [...] the pandemic response discuss the “true state of the should be prioritized, not nation”. other laws just aiming to stifle dissent,” LFS chairperson RJ “This [ATL] is the law Ledesma stated. that is dangerous under any administration [...] even before PHOTO COURTESY OF ABS-CBN NEWS OPENING OF CLASSES educators’ efforts in addressing the varying demands of every connection for synchronous category as the faculty and staff activities and research tasks. have undergone formalized training in preparation for the As an assurance, incoming classes as early as assessment tools for an June 16. academic performance like quizzes will be classified as “We only have to see formative or are not graded and this time as what we have can be taken multiple times as to respond to and hope that stated in the aforementioned there is light [at the end of] talk. the tunnel,” Martinez stated, urging students to embrace Vice Chancellor for present-day learning. Academic Affairs Annabelle Balor also highlighted the THE OFFICIAL STUDENT MEDIA CORPS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE · USLS STUDENT ACTIVITY CENTER, LA SALLE AVE., BACOLOD CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL 6100 · VOLUME 65 NUMBER 3 · JULY TO AUGUST 2020

JULY TO AUGUST 2020 | VOLUME 65 NO. 3 OPINION 4 Editorial Making Sense of Cents Almost exactly loans are necessary utilization. delayed support for Local -EARL JOHN D. PABULAR halfway down the The 154,000 total cases (as Government Units are shaky terror-filled rabbit hole that As both Filipino under emergencies and are of writing), the inadequate because of the former’s are working 18-hour shifts is 2020, the total debt of students and citizens, we vital for social and economic own lack of transparency for the country. the country has escalated believe that the problem survival. In fact, the country mass testing, the millions and shifting the blame is to more than P9 trillion as is not the rising debt itself of families fending for not a substitute for taking The pandemic has brought reported by the Bureau of the nor the loans intended to is prepared to pay off these themselves without their accountability. a glaring spotlight on the Treasury in July. Despite this ease the crushing weight of loans; to simplify, according worst of this admin—the debt not being entirely made the pandemic, but rather to an ANCX article, our total appropriate subsidies, As reported by the indifference on human up of COVID-19 loans (only a the questionable COVID the total disregard of Corruption Perceptions life and the stubborn, tenth of it), the Philippines response of the government debt-to-Gross Domestic overworked and underpaid Index, the Philippines’ unshakeable egos of close- being the country with despite these loans, the Product (GDP) ratio has not ranking has moved to the minded individuals. We can both the longest quarantine baffling priorities coupled been above 50 percent in frontliners, and the narrow- 113th spot in 2019, 14 spots only do our part in the ways lockdown in the world and with unanswered pleas, minded blame on the poor below its rank in 2018. After that we have control over: the highest mortality rate and the ongoing streak of the last two decades. GDP all point to the fact that all, swimming with dolphins giving donations, staying and number of total cases in corruption. refers to the collective value during a quarantine and informed, helping our local Southeast Asia raises more of goods and services of a things have not been getting making a song and dance community, and remaining than just a few concerns. As unfathomable as the better after more than 150 out of a pandemic is more self-sustaining. For those borrowed amounts are, country, ergo we have fiscal days of quarantine. than an insult when nurses in power, well, it seems that room for even more loans doing the right thing is as if necessary. Regardless of The government’s hard as it is obvious. justifications for their this, it isn’t the amount that’s incompetence and the important but rather, the THESPECTRUM Wealth is health, apparently FOUNDED 1956 facebook.com/thespectrumusls · [email protected] When there’s a will there’s a way. had been PhilHealth’s president VOLUME 65 NUMBER 3 · JULY - AUGUST 2020 It’s fascinating that this kind of from 2001 to 2005 and remains as empowerment also applies to corrupt their board chairman—chose to Lance Christian M. Juarez authority figures in their abject Prima Lonzogna remain silent despite the criticisms disregard for human life despite a raised against him. Senator Risa EDITOR-IN-CHIEF worsening pandemic. Lance Christian M. Juarez Hontiveros questioned this silence [email protected] in a statement in early August, Ma. Kristine Joy R. Bayadog August greets the nation with urging the need for detailed Former PhilHealth anti-fraud officer It is beyond paramount investigation on the company. ASSOCIATE EDITOR Thorrsson Montes Keith alleging that a crime syndicate made up of that necessary legal Duque’s response to these call- Ivee E. Manguilimotan PhilHealth’s executive committee outs is to do some “soul-searching” members were defrauding the action must be done to reflect on his performance for MANAGING EDITOR company for about P15 billion. the country’s pandemic response. to individuals who “There was never a time that I never Paula Mae E. Villarosa These were from a multitude of tried my best but if my best is not deceptions during the insurance deliberately exploit the enough, I just have to do some more EXTERNAL AFFAIRS DIRECTOR company’s operations before reflection and soul-searching,” he and during the pandemic. These system using their power. said as hundreds of underpaid and NEWSPAPER EDITOR Kynah Rhea B. Fuentes include, but are not limited to: (1) overworked healthcare workers MAGAZINE EDITOR Hana Patricia Raj E. Hautea the overpricing and re-purchasing false claims and ‘upcasing’ of common push themselves beyond their of already bought Informations ailments.” body’s limits to aid victims of the ONLINE EDITOR Patrick N. Billojan Technology (IT) equipment; (2) pandemic. LITERARY EDITOR Carl Hason T. Gerale abuse of their P30-billion Interim This trail of corruption leads back PHOTOS & VIDEOS EDITOR Karl Brian T. Marqueza Reimbursement Mechanism (IRM)—a as far as almost two decades—shady I believe Senator Panfilo Lacson’s LAYOUT AND GRAPHICS EDITOR Alexandra V. Bachoco special budget for emergency events cataract surgeries in 2015 which response to this says it better than such as COVID-19; and (3) multiple impeded on patient’s rights and proper anybody else: “Soul-searching is NEWSPAPER WRITERS PHOTOJOURNALISTS instances of ‘fake’ coronavirus procedure, an extremely bloated only for people who have souls.” patients. These were also backed by travel budget in 2017 for their former Alan S. Villanueva Jr. Keilah N. Baldomar PhilHealth board member Alejandro president, overpriced testing kits, and Once again, the bottomline Drexel John N. Amit Angelo F. Despi Cabading as he supported Keith’s the odd 5,000 130-year-old patients is to hold people of authority claims when the former questioned in PhilHealth’s database. These points accountable for their abuse. I MAGAZINE WRITER Inocencio John Keith B. Ferrer V the proposed P2.1 billion IT project can definitely have a discussion thread second Risa Hontiveros’ call for budget. on their own but the point is that thorough investigation on one Adrianne H. Saplagio LAYOUT AND GRAPHICS ARTIST PhilHealth has a long, continuous streak of the most important health Despite PhilHealth’s official of suspicious activity. organizations of the nation. It is ONLINE WRITERS Trizia C. Hassim statement explaining their arguments beyond paramount that necessary against said IT budget, it does not While the recent fraud allegations legal action must be done to Shan Marc O. Jabagat ILLUSTRATORS remove the company’s shady history have been going on, it seems that Health individuals who deliberately Ezra Chrislaine L. Ortega of corruption, the other instances of Secretary Francisco Duque—who exploit the system using their Anna Theresa S. Parayno abuse with their IRM, and the need for power. Most especially when WEB ADMINISTRATORS Earl John D. Pabular transparency and accountability. millions depend on their service. Angela A. Coronel EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Other reports support these Lance Christian M. Juarez, 20, is Christian Dominic L. Ledesma allegations as an Inquirer article a narcissistic pseudo-intellectual Kiara Nicole D. Villa states that whistleblowers reveal who takes interest in the obscure. the company’s P154 billion loss in He is in a continuous pursuit of The Spectrum is the Official Student Media Corps of the University of St. La Salle. Its editorial the past due to “reimbursements for knowledge and self-actualization office is located at the Coliseum grounds La Salle Ave., Bacolod City, Negros Occidental 6100; ‘ghost’ dialysis patients, overpayments, as a means to find meaning in life. it can be reached through the telephone number, (034) 432-1187 local 172 and e-mail address, [email protected]. All rights reserved. No part of The Spectrum may be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the Media Corps. All contributions become The Spectrum property and the Editor-in-Chief reserves the right to edit all articles for publication. THE OFFICIAL STUDENT MEDIA CORPS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE · USLS STUDENT ACTIVITY CENTER, LA SALLE AVE., BACOLOD CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL 6100 · VOLUME 65 NUMBER 3 · JULY TO AUGUST 2020

JULY TO AUGUST 2020 | VOLUME 65 NO. 3 A sudden shift was never easy OPINION 5 VAT to top it questions like: “How about the students who only rely on on their device availability and internet connectivity: mobile data and don’t even have laptops or computer devices?” Category 1 is for students who do not have any means of all off and “Can we still receive the same educational quality and give internet connection and no mobile devices or laptops and back quality-wise outputs and performances even if we shift computers,whichmeanstheyhavetogetphysicalmodules Golden Apple of Discord online?” or handouts from their respective teachers. Students What’s also concerning was the statement once thrown at under Category 2 are separated to two: 2A is for students Paula Mae E. Villarosa me by a random person: “Indi gani kapamati kag ka-focus ang who have limited internet access with mobile phones but [email protected] estudyante sa pisikal nga klase sa classroom, sa online classes do not have laptops or computers while 2B is for students pa ayhan?” who have limited internet access with mobile phones, Instead of creating bills that From that question alone, I get to posit a series of queries laptops and/or computers. Category 3 is for students who can help us end this pandemic Bel Fiore and statements that might trigger students and faculty: have stable internet access with mobile devices, laptops it would seem like our leaders 1. What if students can’t participate well in class due to and/or computers. Students under categories 2 and 3 are have wielded it as a scapegoat to Ma. Kristine Joy R. Bayadg technical and social factors? required to attend classes through online platforms like undermine their foes by seizing [email protected] Canvas, Zoom, Google Meet, etc. 2. How about students that cheat because professors can’t critics that they deem to be Until now, I can’t even seem to even tell whether their students are 100% honest with their It’s a good thing that the university understands the “enemies of the state” and further agree with this online shift, but written tasks? worries of students and provided this categorization strategy. Yet, I feel like this distance learning method could exploit the poor while we are I can’t disagree either because 3. Students might get bored just facing their devices’ have been improved because still, some students under disadvantaged. screens while barely grasping anything from the discussion. three categories are clearly having a difficult time coping this setup is definitely safer than 4. Not only will we be listening to the lessons—we’ll also with delayed and rushed discussions, and simultaneous In the five months of this pandemic plaguing our having to go out and attend piling up of learning tasks from different subjects day lands, the Philippine government has reaped feat physical classes. be hearing extra noises from the background: barking dogs, after day. after feat. From successfully shutting down the crying infants, squealing pigs, shouting neighbors, etc. media giant ABS-CBN, passing the Anti-Terror However, class performances and connectivity issues are Learning can be as effective and timely as it can be if Law, claiming the top spot for ‘most COVID-19 Amidst the rising COVID-19 cases across the country, not the only questions—school fees and expenses are also clear instructions are given prior to the opening of classes cases in Southeast Asia’ at 100, 000, to making academic institutions, especially those of the college units, part of the matter. Scrolling through social media sites, I’ve so that both students and teachers could go hand in hand history with a P9 trillion debt that none of us have decided to push through with online classes this read anecdotes on school fees remaining the same despite the towards a specific learning goal. can ever pay back in our lifetime. But that is not August despite the concerns, comments, complaints, and shift to online classes. Of course, who would even make use the best part. Amidst the snowballing cases, doubts of parents, students, and teachers alike. of dental, library, laboratory, and computer fees at school if Until now, I can’t even seem to agree with this online dwindling economy, deteriorating healthcare As a student, I know where the complaints are coming students are to attend classes at the comfort of their homes? shift, but I can’t disagree either because this setup is system, and increasing unemployment; the from—it’s rooting from the worries, uncertainties, and Additionally, parents were also concerned with weekly to definitely safer than having to go out and attend physical government thought that what we needed at unexpected events that online classes may cause while it monthlyprepaidloadpurchasesoftheirchildrenwhoareonly classes. We are currently in a global health crisis and the a time like this was a tax imposition on digital is being implemented. I, myself, am hesitant to go through using mobile data. An average prepaid load costs 100 pesos for last thing we should do is be outside the comfort of our services and transactions. Now, that is the foulest this setup because at times when luck doesn’t agree with a week. However, can its data usage sustain all throughout a homes and get potentially infected by an unseen and cherry on top of one moldy ice cream. me, I can’t even send a single message to my publication week with three to four subjects daily having one to an hour deadly enemy. colleagues due to internet instability. But yes, work still and a half discussion period? I think not, especially when FollowingAlbayRepresentativeJoeySalceda’s goes on so I had no choice but to bear with the moody classes are held via Zoom and Google Meet conferencing apps. Kristine, 21, is a 3rd year Operations Management proposal of the Digital Economy Taxation Bill mobile signal. But even with the birth of online classes, the university major and is the current second-in-command of The to the House of Representatives in May, the said I’m not much of a complainer, but I observe what other made sure that no student is left behind through its learning Spectrum—a writer and seeker of truth, a two-faced bill was approved by the House Committee on students like me are going through. I’ve been hearing categorization. Lasallian students are categorized based anomaly. She was a lone star in her past life—nobody Ways and Means, holding authority over the dared trespass her abode. state’s fiscal, monetary, and financial affairs, at the end of July. House Bill 6765 will impose a 12% Sakit na walang lunas value-added tax (VAT) on digital transactions “Call center agent ka pala? Aba, asensado ah.” patuloy na kumakalat at hindi mabigyan-bigyan ng and services—online shopping sites like Shopee, Nang unang sumibol ang industriya ng Business anumang lunas. Kapag ika’y natatakan na, mahirap nang social networks like Facebook, streaming sites Process Outsourcing (BPO) sa Pilipinas, kinamamangha tanggalin ang marka ng pananaw ng mga tao. Walang like Netflix, and search engines like Google ng mga tao kapag ika’y makikilalang nagtatrabaho bilang masama sa pagiging call center agent, kagaya na rin ng among others. It would garner a P10.66 billion Cosmicisang call center agent—sa kadahilanang, bago itong walang masama sa pagiging janitor, kargador, at barkero. revenue amidst the recession to hopefully bolster Kynah Rhea B. Fuentes Wala itong kaibahan sa katotohanang walang marapat na our economy. But as far as its provisions go, this industriya, malaki ang pinapasweldo, at may tanda ka [email protected] alipustahin sa kung ano man ang kalagayan ng kalusugan proposition is like its many mid-pandemic-made ng kahusayan sa paggamit ng kompyuter at katatasan sa ng tao, lalo na sa panahon ng pandemya. cousins. It can potentially push the economic wikang Ingles. Isang sampal ng katotohanan decline forward instead of pulling us out from the sa atin ang realidad na Sa patuloy na paglubog ng ekonomiya buhat ng torrent. Taong 1992, nagsimula ang operasyon ng pinakaunang krisis, patuloy ang operasyon ng industriya ng BPO na call center sa bansa. Sa paglipas ng mga panahon, hindi lamang ang kanilang siyang ipinagpuputok ng butsi ng karamihan. Hindi How would it exactly tax huge foreign lumago ang industriya hanggang sa dumami ang mga pamumuhay ang naisasalba, rin nila mapipiling mag-work from home kagaya sa digital corporations when they are not obliged kompanyang kagaya nito, kung kaya’t natawag bilang kundi pati na rin ang lumulubog ibang okupasyon. May karampatang bilis ng internet sa Philippine taxpayers? The House mended that “Sunshine Industry” ng Pilipinas dahil sa kaunlarang pagtatrabaho na hindi maaasahan sa kung saang sulok flaw by proposing that foreign developers put up naibibigay sa bansa—hanggang sa naideklara ito bilang na ekonomiya. lang, at hindi rin maiiwasang makagambala sa trabaho physical offices in the country to legalize their BPO capital sa buong mundo. ang ingay sa paligid. Isang sampal ng katotohanan sa atin operations here—compelling them to pay taxes. “Ang talino mo para diyan lang magtrabaho.” “Huwag kang makipaghalubilo diyan. Taga-call center ang realidad na hindi lamang ang kanilang pamumuhay At first glance, this may seem like an ideal solution yan.” ang naisasalba, kundi pati na rin ang lumulubog na to our money problem. Seeing that Filipinos take Kung gaano kabilis ang paglago nito, ganoon din ekonomiya. up a bigger share of the digital-consumption-pie katulin ang pag-iba ng pananaw sa mga call center agents. Mas umigting pa ang diskriminasyon ng mga taga-call among other nationalities, they would submit to Hindi ko mawari ang mga rason sa biglaang pagbaliktad center nang ibinalitang may mga nagpositibo sa COVID-19 sa Paralinawin,hindilangsilakaswalnatumatanggapng the requirements. ng opinyon laban sa kanila. Sa isang dahilan lang ako ilang kompanya ng BPO, rason upang sila’y mas lalong maliitin. tawag mula sa mga kustomer at lalong hindi lang “pindot- sigurado: ang paglalahat sa realidad na halos sa mga Halimbawa na lamang ang mga ahenteng hindi pinaparahan ng pindot” ang kanilang ginagawa. Bukod sa nagbibigay However, these are not normal circumstances ahente ay hindi nakapagtapos ng pag-aaral. Napakalaking mga pampublikong sasakyan kung mapapansing naka ID sila ng sila ng solusyon sa mga kustomer, nadadagdagan pa ito and with the debacle of our reputation during bagay rin, para sa iba, na may mga indibidwal dito na kompanyang ito. ng hindi mabilang-bilang na pang-iinsulto, reklamo, at this crisis, it is not far-fetched to assume that kahit nakapagtapos nang may akademikong karangalan hindi magandang pagtrato sa telepono. Gaya ng lahat ng they might discontinue their services here at kwalipikado sa napiling karera, ay piniling manatili sa Bunsod ng mga reklamong natatanggap, umapela ang mga trabaho, may lebel ng kahirapan ito. Mabuti ngang instead. The hassle of building offices, exposing call center. Nakakalimutan man paminsan-minsan ang mga ospiyales ng mga syudad na ito upang wakasan ang nabibigyan sila ng oportunidad na makapagtrabaho, their deployed personnel in a heavily infected ganitong isyu sa lipunan, kita pa rin kung gaano punahin namamayaning diskriminasyon. Muling inilahad ang Article imbes na lalong mag-ambag sa unemployment rate ng country, with an ever-distorting legal system, ng iba ang mga empleyadong karaniwan ay nakasuot ng 286 of Revised Penal Code: ang sinumang mag-discriminate bansa. and a whopping P9 trillion debt—if that does dyaket at ID ng tinutuluyang kompanya ng BPO. sa pamamagitan ng pagbabanta, karahasan, o pananakot, ay not scream economically unattractive, I do not maaaring makulong ng anim na buwan hanggang anim na taon Hindi man ito palaging maririnig, ngunit sila’y know what is. This band aid amendment to the Kamakailan lang, sinariwa ang isyung ito ng at pagmumultahin ng hindi tataas sa P6,000. Unjust vexation nagsisilbing inspirasyon sa mga tao. Kung ating tingnan previous National Internal Revenue Code of 1997 beteranong brodkaster sa kilalang istasyon ng radyo naman ang ipapataw kapag ang diskriminasyon ay nagdulot sa malapitan, bawat isa sa kanila ay may kwento sa likod can further incapacitate us. nang pagsalitaan niya ng mga negatibong komento ang ng emotional distress, na may kaparusahan ng pagkakakulong ng pamamalagi sa isang call center—may kwentong mga call center agents. Sa loob ng ilang minuto, paulit-ulitng isa hanggang 30 araw at pagmumultahin mula P1,000 to breadwinner, may kwentong single mom, may kwentong If these free online services and transactions niyang inalipusta ang mga ito, habang binigyang-diin P40,000. working student, at maaring may kwentong kapit sa were to be taxed, we are to suffer the biggest blow na ang pagtatrabaho sa kompanya ng BPO ay gawain patalim. of all. Filipinos are already struggling to make ng mga tamad. Hindi rin nakaligtas ang mga Mass Normal na ang ganitong senaryo sa bansa—wari’y sakit na ends meet because of salary cuts, layoffs, and loss Communication graduates mula sa pang-iinsulto ng Walang sinoman ang nararapat na makaranas ng of livelihood because of prohibitions. Majority of brodkaster; ang sabi, madali lang namang magtrabaho sa diskriminasyon, ngunit parang wala ring sinoman ang the poor did not even receive the financial aid that call center sapagkat “pindot-pindot” lang sa keyboard ang makakahanap sa sakit na ito na walang lunas. was promised—One News PH reported that over ginagawa—walang kailangang “brain cells”. Nasangkot 300,000 households did not receive their share of pa ang mga janitor, kargador, at barkero, nang ihambing Fortified by the burning enthusiasm for imparting the social amelioration fund back in June. ang utak ng mga MassCom graduates sa kanila; hindi daw lifelong lessons, Kynah Rhea Fuentes aspires to be kaya ng kanilang utak ang magtrabaho sa midya. an influential educator in the fullness of time. She is Prices for necessary goods have skyrocketed currently taking up Bachelor of Secondary Education - and now, they would charge us for our Major in English. medium of communication, work, school, and entertainment—bribing us with “helping boost Parallel pandemic of pseudo-paracetamols the economy”? With the debt we have, should we not have been able to mass test for free, build Health is wealth. Recently, the Philippine Food and Drug Ivy Aguas quality facilities, give raises to front-liners, and The gravity of what used to be a mere saying Administration (FDA) released an advisory against the have alleviated the problem by now? If this purchase and use of counterfeit drugs. Counterfeit drugs Ivee E. Manguilimotan is how the people’s money is allocated, what proves to hold its ground during this COVID-19 are those with wrong or contaminated ingredients; those [email protected] assurance do we have that this VAT would help crisis. The truth is, contracting the virus during with the correct ingredients but wrong amounts; or the economy? these trying times would force you to either those without the active ingredients. These drugs are not Although it already poses shell out money for the treatment or die trying properly registered and validated by the FDA and can be danger during normal Yes, our Asian neighbors [Singapore and to make ends meet. As harsh as it may seem, our mislabeled as both generic and branded products. Malaysia] passed a similar bill into law but they health serves as our daily foundation to adjust and circumstances, the threats have fared the global crisis better than we have. continue on with the new normalities. No one can Among the most common counterfeit drugs is and risks it carries multiplies Given our current state, we cannot really use afford to get sick in these dark days; to get sick is to paracetamol. Seen in mostly huge advertisements, it by a hundred-fold during this them as a basis. Instead of creating bills that might as well consider dying. is recommended to relieve mild pain or fever. Without can help us end this pandemic it would seem much means and access to health facilities, some experts health crisis. like our leaders have wielded it as a scapegoat to Brought about by this pandemic, while we may suggest the use of fever-lowering over-the-counter undermine their foes by seizing critics that they continue to struggle against the crashing economy drugs to aid us in staying healthy during these times is best to buy medication from licensed and deem to be “enemies of the state” and further and neglectful government, scammers decided but are advised to be extra cautious in doing so. As FDA-approved establishments and omit from exploit the poor while we are disadvantaged. to ride the tide. There has been a surge in the fear-stricken Filipinos, we tend to hog these supplies products with questionable lowered-prices. To circulation of fake and counterfeit products— without thoroughly checking if it’s authentic and safe to avoid a parallel pandemic of counterfeit drugs, Paula Mae E. Villarosa, 19, is a 2nd year from masks to kits. But the most alarming of all consume—of which minor neglect could endanger our being able to identify authentic drugs from fake Liberal Arts and Commerce student—taking BA would be the onslaught of counterfeit medicines lives ones is your ultimate weapon for survival. Communication and BS Marketing Management. made available to the public. Inevitably, in this She may be a campus journalist for nine years but health emergency, we heavily rely on medicine. Consumers need to have the ability to distinguish Driven by her passion to wield the pen for her heart has always been within the many facets Although it already poses danger during normal authentic drugs from fake ones. Some of which include: truth and justice, Ivee is a student journalist of the literature she writes and reads. circumstances, the threats and risks it carries physical signs like color, size, weight, and design of both currently taking up BS Accounting Information multiplies by a hundred-fold during this health the drug and its packaging; and details such as parts of Systems. She envisions a world ascending crisis. With no approved vaccine or treatment, the the packaging in particular the logo, lot/batch number, towards the path of genuine freedom—free from spread of potentially harmful fake products and expiration date, and security features. In most cases, anything and everything else. medicines should be dealt with utmost caution on they have no effect. But they may still contain toxic both a macro and micro perspective. ingredients or potentially lethal impurities which can cause major adverse events and complications. This The counterfeiting industry is soaring due to emerging problem does not only affect the individual the unprecedented health emergency created by but the whole of society as well. Studies show that taking the pandemic. Counterfeiters prey on peoples’ wrong doses of medicine can enhance the survival of fears while they flood the online networks with more resistant parasites and therefore the emergence of advertisements for supposed treatments, tests, and drug resistance. medical devices for the novel coronavirus. And in this age of misinformation and fake news, people In the predicament that we’re in, it always pays to are more susceptible to fraudulent acts since they be mindful of buying the medicine that will help us have a hard time discerning which is true. recover rather than further implicating our health. It THE OFFICIAL STUDENT MEDIA CORPS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE · USLS STUDENT ACTIVITY CENTER, LA SALLE AVE., BACOLOD CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL 6100 · VOLUME 65 NUMBER 3 · JULY TO AUGUST 2020

JULY TO AUGUST 2020 | VOLUME 65 NO. 3 SPECIALREPORT 6 JPES confronts The Spectrum over column article BY KYNAH RHEA B. FUENTES AND At the time of the HEZRON G. PIOS L-Week incident, Pios confirmed that The A slight shift of perspective Spectrum was unaware works. about the process that Last Jan. 16, the Junior takes place for their Philippine Economics Society misprints. As for JPES, (JPES) arranged a formal they strive to be an eco- meeting with The Spectrum friendly group thus to discuss an opinion article cannot be reusing and recycling entitled Print is Dying in considered as USLS campus paper through the level and to promote the publication’s magazine USLS published in the 2019 property, did development and growth of issue seemed a harmless option. September-October newspaper not approve the Moreover, when asked by issue of the media corps. resolution which campus journalism as a means Pios over a phone call, Gen of strengthening ethical Conrado of IMPRESS Quality Former The Spectrum was seconded by the values, encouraging critical Printing confirmed that The editor-in-chief Hezron Pios Spectrum misprints were and moderator Ms. Jean Lee and creative thinking, and dispatched elsewhere after the developing moral character factory had completed its job Patindol sat opposite JPES’ then and personal discipline of the order. club president James Escalante In light of his opinion write- and then secretary Al Millen Filipino youth. up, Pios stressed that he had no Although RA 7079 did not intent to deliberately malign the Miravalles in the YAL-CBA specify the use of physical public image of JPES. The reason Discussion Room. why he name-dropped JPES was Unprecedented Friction outputs as in the service of accuracy. “Instead of making it sound Prior to the scheduled like a hearsay, a blind item or to forum, Escalante had sent an throw shade, I chose to reveal openletter addressedtoPiosand the club’s identity because The Spectrum. The following the article was not meant to excerpt has been lifted from shame them in the first place,” the seventh paragraph of JPES’ he explained. Since the write- written message: up was penned in the form of During the L-Week, some an opinion article, not news members of The Spectrum training or feature, Pios affirmed that visited our animal exhibit and gathering all sides was not at MM11 and 12, where the polishing imperative. misprints were used as cover- of skill set The crux of [Print is Dying ups to the windows and doors. becomes in USLS] pertained mostly on When asked why we used those futile the following: (1.) years’ worth papers, I replied, “I didn’t know because our of vandalizing and tearing apart that it’s not allowed” as I was not intellectual printed issues of the publication, aware that we were violating any property as ridding chances of sustained existing rule or guideline. This journalists reading and use of references; was followed up by the members is instantly (2.) rejection of the resolution of The Spectrum telling us to cheapened, if not disrespected. by OSA; (3.) nomination process take them down, to which we in the Corps d’Elite in the Field complied respectfully and According to Escalante, the -KIARA NICOLE D. VILLA of Print Arts; (4). entitlement highlighted paragraph was a of Lasallian faculty and staff willingly. And so, The Spectrum characterization and accusation over the duty of coverage by team left immediately after [against JPES that] came as a The Spectrum staff; and (5). giving the notice without giving shock as they were blindsided Office for promotion of discipline in with the publishing of the Student Affairs, or existing laws reading and literacy. us the opportunity to provide article without having them to of the country, questioning if Disclaimer: The Junior Philippine Economics Patched Up details of the acquisition of explain their side. Society’s open letter to the Spectrum could be Despite the indicated points, those papers. JPES had committed any form accessed in the publication’s Facebook page. Pios understood Escalante’s “We take great pride in our of violation against the school concern that his article caused The misprints referenced reputation as an organization paper. an impact incompatible with above were The Class 2019 as our current and previous what he expected towards JPES. magazine copies which were members have taken care of it “No protocol that To reiterate the fact that so much throughout the years. could prohibit any club or no policy could penalize the subsequently purchased by This article [Print is Dying organization to reuse The club, both parties settled their JPES from Ang Bata Hardware in USLS] has already damaged Discipline Office. After a failed concerns and mutually agreed and Construction Supplies in this image,” he expressed in the Spectrum outputs is currently attempt to pass Resolution that the consequence of this letter. observed,” Pios explained. The No. 1 which could have laid a covering on the wall, Pios miscommunication would be to Brgy. Bata. action of JPES during the 2019 out preventive measures for stressed that the growth of release an explainer. Contrarily, here’s an As a result, JPES brought the publication, Pios resorted campus journalism is directly As the world starts shifting excerpt quoted from the second up five major questions from Lasallian Week was spared to drafting an opinion article impacted because every to digital media, this issue of the missive which ought to be from sanction, thus absolving that would encapsulate his physical copy that had been print arts may or may no longer paragraph of Pios’ column answered primarily by Pios the club. sentiments on print arts. destroyed beyond recognition be relevant in the future. After write-up: during the meeting. Hence, the The Vulnerability of is equal to a squandered all, The Spectrum is open to the Albeit Campus Journalism succeeding paragraphs include On the other hand, Pios Campus Journalism opportunity for enhanced possibility of embracing digital the final exchange between JPES stressed that he and his learning and involvement in platforms, promoting paperless Act exists, it is apparently and The Spectrum, quotations Editorial Board had proposed Pios clarified that the citation news and current affairs for the journalism, and environmental dismissed by Lasallians, be it from external parties, and of the Campus Journalism Act of student body. sustainability faculty or students. For some circumstances highly relevant a resolution namely Resolution 1991 or RA 7079 does not imply to the case. No. 1 or A Resolution Formally that JPES violated the law. The For The Spectrum, there of them, printed issues of Guilty as charged? Protecting The Spectrum rationale behind citing it can is no specific way that they The Spectrum can be torn, be further illustrated by the would want their misprints to vandalized, used as rags or Escalante interrogated Pios Publication Permanently following clause: be reused and recycled as the about the nature of the incident Starting Academic Year 2019- publication has always aimed covering like what Junior in relation to the policies 2020 to the Office for Student Sec. 2. Declaration of Policy. for their outputs to be read Philippine Economics cemented in the Student — It is the declared policy of the while they are fresh and off the Society did during the Handbook, guidelines set by the Affairs Dean Dr. Rowela Chiu State to uphold and protect the printing press. weeks before the conception of freedom of the press even at the Misconstrued intentions Lasallian Week. In short, his column. our publication is defenseless against this inappropriate Chiu, resolving that The Spectrum printed outputs behavior. All the rigorous SONA 2020: Moving forward amidst health bind BY PATRICK N. BILLOJAN AND necessary—so the country can others that oligarchs need not During his speech, he made recover due to the economic American foreign military SHAN MARC O. JABAGAT normalize as fast as possible. be rich. Then he linked the anti- another push to reimpose the slump caused by the pandemic. bases in Subic Bay, Zambales. Furthermore, Duterte dynasty system with oligarchy death penalty for violators of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte said that the [economic] gains and the topic was my daughter the country’s anti-drugs law. Duterte also gave emphasis “I have nothing against delivered his fifth State of the the country achieved in the and son,” Duterte said. on children and human America. I have nothing against Nation Address (SONA) last first three years were put to a “I reiterated the swift rights. According to him, the China. But if you put bases July 27 at the Plenary Session test, declaring afterward that The statement was made passage of the law reviving the government is amplifying its here, you double the spectacle Hall of the Batasang Pambansa the Philippines was able to after the denial of ABS-CBN death penalty by lethal injection efforts in the protection of of a most destructive thing just Complex. withstand the impact of the franchise and after Duterte for crimes specified under the children and human rights, and like Manila during the Second coronavirus. declared that he “dismantled” Comprehensive Dangerous put an end to discrimination of World War, during the retaking This year’s SONA was one of He also expressed his oligarchy without declaring Drugs Act of 2002,” Duterte people based on age, ethnicity, of this city. One of the most Duterte’s longest so far, lasting gratitude to the frontliners for Martial Law. conveyed as he expressed his gender, identity, and other devastated cities in the world,” for an hour and 41 minutes. risking their lives to serve and New plans set for the rest of interest in reviving the death character traits. he said. Compared to his previous protect the people, and shared the term penalty. SONAs, the government his grief of the families for their “We will not dodge our Moreover, he also admitted implemented strict protocols to loss. Although Duterte made On a better note, he has also obligation to fight for human that he could not afford to go to ensure safety among attendees; Unfortunately, he did no mention of any solid plan fixed his eyes on recovering rights,” President Duterte war against China in asserting mandatory swab testing and not address specific plans or in battling COVID-19, he did the country’s economy as conveyed. the Philippines’ sovereignty in rapid tests were conducted concerns against the pandemic. tackle other plans he highlighted some of the the South China Sea. for those who are entering the Oligarch issue against that are laid Meanwhile, he also venue. Drilon throughout government’s response rocked the country’s leading “China is claiming it, we Starting off with pandemic After his brief mention his last two in reviving Micro, telecommunication companies, are claiming it. China has the about the pandemic, Duterte years in Small, and Medium Smart and Globe Telecom, arms. We do not have it. So, it’s Duterte opened his speech attacked Senate Minority office. Enterprises such as with a threat to close them and as simple as that. They are in by describing how the dreams Leader Franklin Drilon— the enactment of the seize their assets if they do not possession of the property […] of prosperity for the country particularly on the issue of -TRIZIA C. HASSIM Corporate Recovery improve their services by the so what can we do?” he added. were suddenly shifted. He oligarchy. and Tax Incentives for end of the year. He also suggested that we better mentioned that no one was Drilon took the President’s Enterprises (CREATE just cool off and treat this as a exempted—everyone is affected attention after he stated that Act) which aims to cut However, he did not mention diplomatic endeavor. from the disease. by banning political dynasty; the third telco player, Dito oligarchy will be dismantled—a income taxes of businesses, Telecommunity which is not On the contrary, different However, he assured that the statement that does not sit well and the Financial Institutions operating commercially yet and progressive groups around the vaccine is “around the corner”, with Duterte, whose three Strategic Transfer (FIST) Act is owned by Duterte’s friend and country also banded through mentioning sooner that he children are elected in office. which will allow banks to campaign contributor Dennis SONAgkaisa rally to voice out made a plea four days before his “In an interview, he transfer non-performing loans Uy. their opposition against the SONA to President Xi Jinping of arrogantly mentioned among to lend more to new borrowers. An attempt to seize Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 China, asking if he can allow the independence and their dismay towards the Philippines to be the first one Over P182.5 million worth government’s initiative in who will receive it—buying it if of loans have already been One of the highlights of negating the COVID-19 crisis in approved to help small scale his speech is his rejection the country. businesses stabilize and towards the idea of establishing THE OFFICIAL STUDENT MEDIA CORPS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE · USLS STUDENT ACTIVITY CENTER, LA SALLE AVE., BACOLOD CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL 6100 · VOLUME 65 NUMBER 3 · JULY TO AUGUST 2020

JULY TO AUGUST 2020 | VOLUME 65 NO. 3 DEVELOPMENT 7 NegOcc gets swab mobile from biomass group PHOTO COURTESY OF BACOLOD PIO BY DREXEL JOHN N. AMIT AND SHAN MARC O. JABAGAT With the aim of boosting the province’s COVID-19 testing capacity, BioPower with its shareholder and project sponsor, European-based firm ThomasLloyd, donated another mobile swabbing unit to the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental through Governor Eugenio Jose V. Lacson. The swab mobile was blessed in a turn-over ceremony held at the grounds of the Provincial Capitol on July 8 attended by Board Member Agustin Ernesto Bascon, Negros Occidental Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz II, and BioPower Stakeholders Senior Manager Jack Celdran, among others. According to Lacson, the said swab mobile will be operational once disinfected and will be dispatched to areas across the province that needs collection of swab samples. Prior to the said event, Bacolod City also received a mobile swabbing unit from BioPower and ThomasLloyd last May 19 through Mayor Evelio R. Leonardia. Moreover, during the onset of the community quarantine, the group donated thousands of personal protective equipment sets, medical supplies, and food provisions to various Local Government Units and medical facilities across Negros Occidental with worth accumulating over P5 million. In a statement, BioPower Group President Arthur Aguilar expressed support to the provincial government, saying that they will continue lending them and their local government partners a helping hand in going through this pandemic. “We believe that the mobile swab units will aid [Negrenses] as the threat of COVID-19 transmission persists,” Aguilar stated. Likewise, ThomasLloyd LTD Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer for Asia Pacific Michael G. Airey affirmed the Negrense people, saying they are proud to reinforce the province in the midst of crisis. Lacson also thanked BioPower and ThomasLloyd for lending the province a “very timely” donation considering that the number of COVID-19 cases in the province is rising, citing the influx of repatriates locally and from abroad. DSC Appoints New Lead: Onto the Next Chapter BY ADRIANNE H. SAPLAGIO AND technology is the future itself. development. assemble a Core Team which USLS Facebook page and dsc. help the community,” Jj said, CHRISTIAN DOMINIC L. LEDESMA The Developer Student Jj, like any other is comprised of students community.dev—the official adding that members also get that would provide support DSC website. “Honestly, you access to Google Technologies, Knowingly or not, technology Club (DSC), a university-based student, was hungry for in handling events and just need to have the drive allowing them to gain relevant dominates us. Regardless of community group for students accomplishments—eager to activities—overall helping to be in the club. DSC aims experience and build personal how far it has come or how interested in Google developer put his best foot forward in to build and develop DSC to bring together people and professional connections. much it has given, humans technologies, cultivates the every opportunity he can on the campus. The reach with a common interest in He wishes to turn DSC to a will continue to seek more desire of the youth to expand chance upon. “DSC seemed of DSC isn’t strictly limited technology and development,” community that nurtures the from it—more of it. The their knowledge in the field of to be the kind of community to the university—Leads Jj explained. He has also growth of its members—a world of fundamentals has technology. It seeks to ignite I was looking for in clubs. from different universities hinted that he prefers to train society where one can push been outgrown and now we the spark of curiosity in the One where anyone can join could potentially hold joint first or second years for them their limits and expand their desire all the wonders the people who would one day lead and where the goal is to grow activities and events, making to gain more experience and horizons. digital age offers. In the past, the country. Every year, they as developers both through it more a community than just be capable of running the club people talked about how far open applications for the Lead, activities and working with a regular club. in the future. Regardless of one’s technological advancements fundamentally the president’s other student developers,” Jj knowledge in programming would take the world in the position in their chapters. On expressed. Jj encourages everyone There’s a lot of benefits or lack thereof, everyone is future. In the present, no one July 23, this position was filled to pass in their applications that come with joining the welcome to tighten their grasp does that anymore—for today by Juanito Jose Padilla—Jj As a Lead, he has the as soon as they call for Developer Student Club. “You on the craft and witness as the the people understand that to his friends—a third-year responsibility of directing members. Those interested get to interact and collaborate passion and dedication of the student taking up Computer the DSC chapter at the are advised to check out the with other student developers members take the club onto Science, majoring in game University of St. La Salle. One Developer Student Clubs - to create projects that could the next chapter. of those responsibilities is to Philippines’ Last Frontier: A Pristine Spot BY ADRIANNE H. SAPLAGIO destination of 1,780 untouched islands packed with pristine white beaches, Amidst all the havoc and despair wondrous rock formations, and brought upon us by the pandemic fascinating underground spots that fill lies a sweet, radiant light. It is but a their visitors with boundless mystique small beam, yes, but a spot of good and wonder. These locations also nonetheless—something the world is in boast a teeming collection of wildlife, dire need of. 33 percent of which is endemic to the country. Last July 8, Travel+Leisure—a renowned travel magazine—declared “Though it’s difficult to reach from the results of their annual survey, the many parts of the world, once travelers World’s Best Awards 2020. On that day, get there, they can dive in World War it was announced that the ‘Best Island in II wrecks, explore old-growth rain the World’ was won by the Philippines’ forests, and paddle one of the world’s very own archipelagic province of longest subterranean rivers at Puerto Palawan. Princesa,” Travel+Leisure writer Sara Clemence said. Pitted against a number of gorgeous places with their own unique charms As the survey offered diversity with from all over the world, Palawan a representative from six continents, emerged on top of the list for the emerging on top of 25 other beautiful fourth time with a score of 94.83 out islands brings great joy to the of 100. Travel+Leisure readers rated Filipino people. Unfortunately, as this the islands according to the activities achievement lives under the shadows and food they offer, the friendliness of of the pandemic, it is not given the the locals, physical magnificence, and recognition it is due. That, however, overall value. Among the other winning does not make the accomplishment contenders stand the beautiful islands any less special and neither does it of Mílos and Páros in Greece, Koh Lanta make Palawan any less perfect. in Thailand, and Sri Lanka. With the world being bleak and Dubbed as “The Last Frontier”, dreary, it’s a great time to be reminded Palawan is a four-time winner of that we will always have Palawan— the award and an amazing tourist our country’s personal pristine spot that thrives amidst the chaos. PHOTO COURTESY OF PEXELS.COM THE OFFICIAL STUDENT MEDIA CORPS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE · USLS STUDENT ACTIVITY CENTER, LA SALLE AVE., BACOLOD CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL 6100 · VOLUME 65 NUMBER 3 · JULY TO AUGUST 2020

JULY TO AUGUST 2020 | VOLUME 65 NO. 3 THE OFFICIAL STUDENT MEDIA CORPS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE · USLS STUDENT ACTIVITY CENTER, LA SALLE AVE., BACOLOD CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL 6100 · VOLUME 65 NUMBER 3 · JULY TO AUGUST 2020

JULY TO AUGUST 2020 | VOLUME 65 NO. 3 Pag -atubang sang mga K a h a n gawa a n Sa ikalima nga State of the Nation Address ni Presidente Duterte, naghiliusa ang aton mga kauturan sa siyudad sang Bacolod sa pag-pamatok sang mga garuk nga mga pagbuhat sang administrasyon sa tunga sang nagalala nga pandemya. Biskan pa pilit sila nga ginapahamtang sa ila nga mga panimalay, wala sing makapugong sang ila pagpangisog sa paghangkat sang mga lideres para sa ila kawsa. Dako man ang ila kakulba sa makalalaton nga masakit, wala na sing mas kahaladlukan pa kaysa sa padayon nga madulaan sing kinamatarung kag tingog ang kadam-an—nga wala sing kinalis sa hinali nga pagpang-utod ginhawa sang ining pandemya. Photos by Karl Brian T. Marqueza THE OFFICIAL STUDENT MEDIA CORPS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE · USLS STUDENT ACTIVITY CENTER, LA SALLE AVE., BACOLOD CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL 6100 · VOLUME 65 NUMBER 3 · JULY TO AUGUST 2020

JULY TO AUGUST 2020 | VOLUME 65 NO. 3 HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE 10 BUYanihan: Patronizing Local, Reviving Economy BY DREXEL JOHN N. AMIT To know that the computer shop where you spend your idle time or the food place where your barkada usually ate has closed is just simply disheartening. For some, it is devastating. As the number of COVID-19 cases is aggressively rising in the country with the economy plunging drastically, not even small business entrepreneurs are spared. With this, the Bacolod Sangguniang Panlungsod approved a resolution requesting Bacolodnons to support the BUYanihan Program in giving aid to the country’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that are severely affected by the pandemic during the regular session of the City Council on July 15. The resolution was -KEILAH N. BALDOMAR primarily authored by city Councilor Simplicia Distrito, and co-authored by city The said program was contribute to the economy, Resuscitating Philippine more than 990,000 MSMEs, well. initiated by the Association of provide employment, and aid Economy making up 99.5% of all the Meanwhile, the Councilors Al Victor Espino, Filipino Franchisers Inc. and the local government through businesses in the country BUYanihan campaign comes Bartolome Orola, Sr., Ana the DTI in partnership with taxes. With more than half Marie Palermo, and Dindo Farmacia ni Dok, Go Negosyo, of MSMEs fully ceasing by 2018—urging the DTI with an eight-point program Globe My Business, PLDT “Supporting the program operations in the first month to create the campaign to as follows: (1) communication Ramos. KaAsenso, SM Super Malls, will positively improve of Enhanced Community improve consumer optimism, campaign; (2) opening of Supporting the Campaign Security Bank, Sea Oil, Union consumer confidence and Quarantine implementation The BUYanihan Program Bank, Philippine Association help the economy recover in the country as reported reinvigorate confidence an e-commerce platform; of National Advertisers, despite the crisis,” Distrito by DTI, the cash-flows of of MSMEs, and eventually (3) individual recovery was primarily launched and the Kapisanan ng mga said, emphasizing that the these enterprises—which reopen the economy. programs; (4) virtual expos; nationwide by the members Brodkaster ng Pilipinas. residents can support the is a primary factor in of the private sector on July program by purchasing business survival—were also Likewise, MSMEs also (5) exposure through onsite Meanwhile, the resolution products and availing drastically affected. provide for 63% of the nation’s marketplace; (6) consultation 10 to back the Department stated that it is necessary to services provided by local employment and, thus, with free mentorship of Trade and Industry’s promote local MSMEs as they businesses in the city. AccordingtothePhilippine (DTI) “Buy Local, Go Lokal” Statistics Authority, there are reviving the sector of small access; (7) employee health businesses means reviving monitoring; and (8) online campaign. the country’s economy as forums. Canvas: On Surviving Online Class ECOBOX BY HANA PATRICIA RAJ E. HAUTEA MODULE 1 | Taking care to different places during like how we take measures to Imprinting AND SHAN MARC O. JABAGAT of the self vacant periods. protect our physical health on the Earth from declining. These uncontrollable With this in mind, MODULE 2 | Getting help Welcome! factors, along with the Ms. Patricia suggests Online class is definitely As the new academic year added load of academic to find what works best unfolds, all Lasallians— requirements, are sure to for you and to avoid stressful, but we should be impact your mental health comparing your pace careful not to exert ourselves students and faculty in one way or another. While and style to that of your to the point of mental or Jennylind Cordero. alike—are embarking on we may be from a tech-savvy classmates. Give yourself BY ALAN S. VILLANUEVA JR. AND generation, we have our time to destress, manage physical exhaustion. In the CHRISTIAN DOMINIC L. LEDESMA The term ‘legacy park’ limits as well. a schedule to avoid a new journey through end, keep in mind that you is a new model of Public virtual plains. But fear not! Ms. Patricia mentioned With the help of licensed that online don’t have to do everything We are the world. The light Private Partnership in the establishment of Local psychometrician Patricia by yourself. from the sun and the waste Conservation Areas—areas from creatures nourish the Marie Laporno, we’ll help If it gets too much, feel grasses; the grasses feed protected and overseered free to talk it out with you sail through online your friends and family. the goats; the goats fill our by the local government classes. With a little work, we can definitely reach our Oftentimes, expressing stomachs; and we release the unit due to its high conservation value; wherein destination safe and sound. yourself can help ease the nutrients the grasses require landowners collaborate by which repeats the cycle of MODULE 0 | What to burden and clear the fog in life. Even in death, we remain allocating portions of their your mind. But if there’s no expect one around to turn to, the with this world as we come property for environmental First and foremost, it’s completely normal Guidance and Evaluation into union with the land— conservation, protection, and rehabilitation. to be confused with how Center is always ready to giving life to generations to “With this program come. Amidst the pandemic, the system works, since offer their services and preserving nature and its today with the provincial lend an ear. They can be it’s so different from what contacted through their cycle is still as important as government, we hope to see we’re used to. But according to Ms. Patricia, the email ([email protected]. it was before. the preservation and the conservation of the future biggest challenge isn’t ph), their Facebook Recently, Negros water site or the headwaters Occidental Governor Eugenio online classes itself, but page (USLS Guidance Jose Lacson ushered the that could give life. I am so & Evaluation Center), rather the transition and their contact launch of the legacy park—a glad the opportunity came adjustment it entails. For one, the internet number ([034] 433 17-hectare land area part of to work with the provincial government for the connection in 2175), or you can Federico Infante’s 55-hectare establishment of the legacy land—to be allocated for Bacolod City can be choose to visit their environmental development park,” Infante said during his office in person. unpredictable due Congratulations! and preservation. speech. to its inconsistency. This may result in You have now Its launching was held Fed-Jul-Nine is the soon- to-be name of the legacy a student having completed the course. last June 30 at Mandayao park, given in honor of Waterfalls in Brgy. difficulty catching up This is a confusing Mansalanao, La Castellana Infante’s mother, father, and time for all of us, if their connection is but let Ms. Patricia which also marked the nine siblings. Aiming for lost during synchronous -EARL JOHN D. PABULAR leave you with a little conclusion of the 28th their goal of environmental classes. Noise and other message: “Challenges Provincial Environment development, clean-ups, physical distractions can also disrupt your focus classes made are opportunities to Month celebration. and tree planting activities some students would commence after the and quality of learning. feel more “alone” and “in grow better and stronger. Accompanying Lacson signing of the memorandum the dark”. Although you during the launching To rub salt in the wound, can chat with your friends procrastination, Never forget that! However was landowner Federico of agreement. Still, as virtually, it can’t come a n d take good care of difficult, always trust in the Ms. Patricia added that close to cramming for a your physical health as process. You are capable of Infante Jr., La Castellana mentioned by Lacson, since we’re now studying quiz together minutes well. According to her, we from home, it’s trickier to before your class or going need to make a conscious more than you know.” Mayor Rhumyla Nicor future development plans effort in developing good for the park are subject separate the role of being a With this, you have Mangilimutan, Provincial to availability of funds mental health hygiene, just Environment Management student from being a family earned a badge as a strong, Officer Danilo Amisola, and especially during these tough capable individual. You got member. this! Provincial Tourism Officer times in the pandemic. THE OFFICIAL STUDENT MEDIA CORPS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE · USLS STUDENT ACTIVITY CENTER, LA SALLE AVE., BACOLOD CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL 6100 · VOLUME 65 NUMBER 3 · JULY TO AUGUST 2020

JULY TO AUGUST 2020 | VOLUME 65 NO. 3 DAGWAY 11 When an Eagle Soars AswangMOVIE REVIEW of struggles: having to transfer homes multiple times for job opportunities and trekking long distances to attend school. He succeeded in before. also revealed taking part-time BY PAULA MAE E. VILLAROSA Aswang skipped jobs as a student which included the usual blueprint gleaning, weeding, and tree “Kapag sinasabi nilang may for its genre as facts trimming. aswang, ang gusto talaga nilang The destination he was sabihin ay—matakot ka.” were shown in all nakedness and heading to was not at all mapped As Filipinos, none of us vulnerability. It gave out from the beginning since he escaped the cautionary tales of initially wanted to be a teacher. creatures that came pillaging for faces to the statistics naughty children, who refused that we see on the His interest was only ignited siestas and sleeping early, to feast news. More than when he joined the Overseas on. Among them, the aswang— Missionary Stewardship, shapeshifting, boogeyman-like to inform, the film beings lurking in the darkness moved us to care—to learning about the need for searching for human prey, acknowledge what nurses in the medical ministry feeding on bodily organs, from his benefactors. Upon and leaving carcasses in their was right under our wake—seems to have always noses to the point PHOTO COURTESY OF TIGWAHANON passing the Nursing Licensure stuck with us. Like the creature, that some may Exam, he dedicated himself to serving his tribe the story has been altered as from 2011 to 2015. it’s passed down from one find its emotional BY ALAN S. VILLANUEVA JR. AND CARL HASON T. GERALE Back then, being a nurse was already enough generation to another—so much appeal shrewd and so that we believed the existence for Otit; however, as he witnessed numbers of of these shapeshifters among calculating. A leap of faith, a firm determination, and a heart for his tribesmen ailing due to their community’s us. Alyx Ayn Arumpac gives the Tackling themes compassion became the tailwinds to get the first lack of hospitals, and with the persuasion of his old tale a new face—as premise of human rights Tigwahanon-Manobo doctor ascending towards fellow missionaries, he dove ahead with hopes of to Duterte’s gruesome drug violations, inequality, greater heights. aiding his people. war in her 2019 award-winning and brutality, Aswang Earning his Doctor of Medicine degree at the De La Mambucon may have taken big strides documentary film Aswang. is a timelessly relevant SalleMedicalandHealthSciencesInstitutelastJune30, closer to his dream but he does not let himself cinematic experience. Despite from its cinematic scenes to the 31-year-old Joeffrey Mambucon, known as “Otit” to be complacent as he currently makes the most Thedocumentarydelvesinto being several years in the making, hard-hitting infographics in the his tribesmen, arose as the first doctor from his tribe. out of his personal study sessions. This is in stories of the many lives reaped course of its screen time. The film Ontopofthat,hebecameabeaconfordreamersaswell. preparation for next year’s board examination by the extrajudicial killings of itfounditsnicheintoday’scurrent stuck to the myth and relied on the War on Drugs campaign. It events—with the shutdown of people’s unscripted dialogues He was also the recipient of two more distinctions: and his upcoming post-graduate internship this opens with Kian de los Santos’ ABS-CBN, the passing of the and careful cutting to move the Dean’s Special Award for Research and Dean’s Special August. Following this, he will be joining the case which leads to following his narrative along. Arumpac even Award for Advocacy, Inclusiveness, and Equity as Department of Health’s Doctors to the Barrios friend, six-year-old Jomari, who Anti-Terror Law, and the weak included scenes of Jomari’s tales has laid witness to poverty, class COVID-19 response systems of of “creatures that lurk in murky the First Tigwahanon-Manobo Lasallian Doctor of program for three years, wishing he will be inequality, and various forms of the same administration as the waters” to further mirror these Medicine. assigned to San Fernando, Bukidnon, before violence. The narrative goes on to legends to reality. The highly On a Facebook post that had gone viral, Mambucon undergoing residency training. show scenes of bloody tokhang film revolved on. It may have contrasted and intense lighting operations, wakes, and burials dealt with the drug war but it setting the film’s mystery and narrated how being ridiculed for his social status and The road Mambucon trod was neither a that became a common thing [at divulged the administration’s horror surged Aswang’s message ethnicity did not deter him on his way to success. The cobblestoned pavement nor was the journey that time] for people living in the forward. Tigwahanon-Manobo tribe, which was home to Otit, a stroll in the meadows. But the vision he eyes slums of the city. constant flaws along with the people’s unresolved pleas. Other than the impression mainly lives in underdeveloped areas—tree houses for his tribe weighed more than the gravels that Told from the perspectives It seemed like a myth within of emotional manipulation that called batangan were built among the branches of a gathered on his soles. As for those people who of victims’ loved ones, the may throw some people off, growing tree with the tree trunk as its solitary post, caught wind of his story or stumbled upon his funeral home owner, journalists, a myth—Arumpac’s play on Arumpac unshackled the truth and concerned individuals— allegories coupled with grim of the myth tucked away under deprived of some necessary facilities. The tribe suffers Facebook post, he leaves a single Tigwahanon Arumpac timely bared the harsh visuals helped deliver the story’s lock and key—human beings from being dispossessed of their tribal lands and their word: “Panaman-taman ki” which means “just reality Filipinos are facing today drunk with power are far more voice in politics. Otit also shared that they normally keep on dreaming”. through a portrayal of a myth context. She enveloped the terrifying than the mythos practice marriage at an early age of 12 and mainly He wishes for them to soar high like him; in a bold and brutally honest ghastly killings and its impact powered by our imagination. rely on farming, fishing, and hunting for livelihood akin to an eagle discovering the world on the 84-minute storytelling that no in localized allusions, clearly Aswang is indeed a documentary and food collection to be shared with the community other side. Besides that, he tells of the need of other Filipino film seems to have seen through the in-between unlike any other—seeing these accordingtotheircontribution,butheprovedthatthey broadening perspectives and opening hearts narrations, reaching out to fictions unravel in real life is can go beyond that with his accomplishment. in understanding the things that happen, Filipinos who can relate to these something no Filipino should Furthermore, on the same post, he showed his joy especially with the discrimination they are miss. and gratitude for the support of his fellow tribesmen— experiencing. stories better than anyone else. Like the myth, the perpetrator of his mentors, his parents, and everyone who has been There is so much room for dreamers in the the extrajudicial acts remained there for him since the beginning of his journey. They skylines to which Dr. Mambucon leaves a few became Otit’s sources of strength that prevailed over more words to bolster those who aspire: “Huwag a “mystery” because proof was scarce. the doubts some people had about him. tayong umiyak, lumaban lang—maging malakas If scrutinized, it didn’t shift Otit’s determination stood firm even in the midst ang loob!” NEGROS TOURS MOVIE REVIEW UNWIND: The Getaway Trip Through Night and Day: You Didn’t Know You Needed Flopping, Trying, Flying -KEILAH N. BALDOMAR saltiness—offers patronage to the social advocacy BY EZRA CHRISLAINE L. ORTEGA a versatile performer, armed kept on changing and insisting the restaurant supports. with the timing and instincts to on places she wanted to visit. BY IVEE E. MANGUILIMOTAN AND ANGELA A. CORONEL It’s better late than never. turn from comedy to drama to To cap off your dining experience, the staff For a movie set in a both. Surprisingly, Paolo Contis What started out as a One early morning, you wake up to chilly presents you a variety of premium yet affordable was an effective leading man as humorous portrayal of a strong weather yet with the sun out—enough to savor wines, from reds to whites, which you happily breathtaking place like Iceland, well, knowing that the former yet imperfect relationship its warmth from your bed. You get up and oblige. Having immersed yourself with a bit of the Through Night and Day, which child actor has worked mainly turned out to be another drama stretch out the sore muscles after a good night’s Ata delicacies, you head out to the next destination. premiered back in 2018, was as a television comedian. that relies on unfortunate sleep, feeling placid and content—it was one of But not without promising yourself to come back unjustly underrated. Especially Emotional Maneuver instances all for sobs and those good days. again and revel in everything the place has to offer. since it made a clever turn in sniffles. CAFE 1925 including disastrous moments What made the film You spend mornings with the usual routine: Ledesma St., Silay City such as skidding off the both underrated in 2018 and Frankly speaking, no matter roll in bed, take a bath, eat breakfast, brush your lane after a clash and in overrated this 2020 is that it how successful the film is teeth, check updates on your phone, and then A quaint and cozy cafe nestled near the heart pulling the lovers apart does its manipulation with in its tear-jerking attempts finally step out of the house to check things off of the city, you find yourselves taking a trip back instead of filming their all the plot conveniences (which made them trending the to-do lists. Your days were customary to the to the past. Not much bigger than your average romance. possible—particularly in the this 2020), it still betrays point where you didn’t know what to do with local carinderia, the place offers you unmatched second half of the story. After the first half’s admirable the freedom you had. Beep! The only days you fine dining experience coupled with a variety of The film talks about living in New York for a few endeavors to express the perk up is when your phone beeps and you get a specialties all for the right prices. Ben (Paolo Contis) who years, Ben comes home to sell significant imperfections of text from a friend: “Teh? Lagaw ta?” You breathe surprises his fiancée Jen their estate and settle with even the most ideal romantic in the not-so-fresh morning air and ready You order pasta from their wide array and (Alessandra de Rossi) his new fiancée in the United relationships. yourself for another hustle. while waiting, you can’t help but take notice of the with a trip to her dream States. Throughout his visit, Picturesque Scenery canvas paintings as city scenes set as the backdrop destination, Iceland. At he discovers Jen’s condition You and your friends meet-up by the near with framed photographs that seem one or two first, the couple fancy their after their breakup. Jen has an On the other hand, one fast food chain and hop into one of the cars generations ahead of your time. As your food is first out-of-the-country astrocytoma (brain tumor) and of the factors that made this that’d take you away from the usual day. Your served, you get curious and ask the staff about the travel, seeing the unique has undergone a brain surgery, movie interesting is that only escape from habitual reality are road trips rich history the café prides itself in—having lived views the European which made her inexplicably they adopt the recent trend to nearby cities and nature spots which luckily, to see the wars in action. For dessert, you reward country has to offer. What irrational when they were in of romantic movies to make are accessible from the city. Seated by the corner yourself with their homemade ice cream and begins as an almost ideal Iceland, particularly when she foreign lands and usually back seat, you roll down the window and see the succumb to the sweetness melting upon your taste holiday for the lovers picturesque and tourist- sun peeking behind the clouds, wind rushing buds, just like the cafe’s ambiance—mellow and transitions into an eye- friendly locations as settings. towards your face. Unbothered, you leave the intimate. opening discovery of their The movie highlighted window open and relish the scenery. What a MACCAHILL CAFE AND SPORTS flaws and shortcomings the magnificent Icelandic good day indeed! ADVENTURE that could mangle their landscape, the northern lights, KUSINATA Brgy. Minoan, Purok Magtahos, Murcia plans in the near future. and other tourist attractions Brgy. Kumaliskis, Don Salvador that viewers would surely add Benedicto Now at this point, you and your friends are There are three distinct to their travel bucket lists. stuffed from all of the delicious food you’ve ideas that turn Veronica Settled atop the cliff overlooking the had from breakfast to lunch; why not spend the Velasco’s Through Night The film’s most poignant mountains and Malatan-og Falls, usually overflowing energy for a thrilling adventure? and Day from a total missed moment has this intent in shrouded in a veil of mist, you arrive at the opportunity movie into a most- full focus, with Ben and Jen restaurant notorious for supporting the local Standing below the foot of Mt. Kanlaon, you watched film this 2020. finally seeing the full wonder Ata Indigenous People Community. Their Ata are welcomed by an astounding view of the five Streaming Platform of the spectacular geysers after cook serves you a scrumptious uga, from the connecting cities, from Valladolid to Silay. While a disagreement that tests each all-day breakfast section of the menu, and adoring the view, you and your group decide to take The film was originally other’s patience, without any your every bite—with just the right amount of a short trek to Kawa Falls. After a few minutes of aired last November 2018 in clue to their already collapsing hiking, you are greeted by an enchanting waterfall Philippine cinemas but was relationship. embraced by the green scenery; you decide to eventually pulled out after three reward yourselves and take a refreshing plunge days due to lack of viewers. The movie bounced back after the exhausting hike. from being a box-office flop into However, when it was a top trending movie on Netflix, Your group decides to have dinner at the viewing published this July 2020 on having the right mixture of deck by sunset. Even as the darkness loomed in the Netflix, it skyrocketed to the timing and shift of approach. skies, the view still kept you in awe—the city lights streaming website’s number Through Night and Day may emanating from the five cities made you feel at ease one trending movie spot in have hit the mainstream late, and you literally feel like you’re on top of the world. a matter of days, making the but eventually, the film and viewers appreciate Alessandra its acting got the attention it As much as you want to hold on to the thrill De Rossi even more. deserved at a time when its and relaxation, it’s time to head home. You feel themes of enduring love are exhausted while you realize that you have to go De Rossi has always been more real than ever. back to your usual routine, yet you feel satisfied and euphoric from the unforgettable escapade that you’ve experienced today. You say goodbye to your friends, get fixed up for bed, and get a good night’s sleep—ready to conquer another day. THE OFFICIAL STUDENT MEDIA CORPS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE · USLS STUDENT ACTIVITY CENTER, LA SALLE AVE., BACOLOD CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL 6100 · VOLUME 65 NUMBER 3 · JULY TO AUGUST 2020

JULY TO AUGUST 2020 | VOLUME 65 NO. 3 FILIPINO 12 Lakbay Buhay ni Juan NI MA. KRISTINE JOY R. BAYADOG Sa kabila ng modernong pinipiling maging OFW. Kung pamilya basta’t magkaroon ng trabaho at sahod subalit Ang paghahangad ng paglipat ikukumpara, hindi hamak na lamang ng mas maginhawang sa ibang bansa ng mga Pinoy kabayanihang ito ng mga mas mataas ang nais din nilang makahanap ay naging katanggap-tanggap naibibigay buhay ang at pangkaraniwang kultura Malaking bahagi ng Juan, bakit nga ba mas pinipili na ng mas maganda at maraming at diskarte na ng bansa kamag-anak. upang matamasa ang buhay ekonomiya ng bansa ang ng ating mga kababayan na Pinipiling mawalay at oportunidad. Nais din na sa tingin ni Juan ay hindi maulila ng isang OFW sa maaabot kung mananatili pagtatrabaho ng ating mga makipagsapalaran at isugal kanyang mga mahal sa buhay nilang mahasa ang kanilang lamang siya sa Inang Bayan. kapalit ng mas mabuting kababayang Juan sa ibang ang hinaharap sa isang kinabukasan. angking galing, talino, Ayon sa artikulong Skill mo, show mo. isinulat ni Maruja M.B. bansa. Sila ang itinuturing bansang dayuhan sa halip talento, kakayahan, Asis para sa Migration Ang iba sa ating mga Policy Institute, ang nating mga makabagong na manatili at magtrabaho kababayan sa labas ng bansa at diskarte na Pilipinas ang pangunahing ay hindi lamang nagnanais bansang pinagmumulan ng bayani—ang Overseas sa bansang kanyang maaaring maging malaking bahagdan ng mga manggagawa sa Asya at sa Filipino Workers (OFWs). sinilangan? dahilan ng mas buong mundo. Ang OFWs ay isang Sa bansang mabilis pang Ang mga dahilang ito ay malalim na nag-uugat mula katawagang madalas na pinagmulatan man pag-unlad. sa hangaring mapabuti ang buhay–bagay na mahirap ginagamit na sumasangguni unang natuto Ang ibang makamit sa isang bansang may marupok na ekonomiya, sa mga migranteng at namulat Pinoy ay mababang antas ng buhay, hindi maunlad na sistemang manggagawa—mga sa realidad nagtamo ng pampulitika, at kawalan ng oportunidad sa trabaho. mamamayang Pilipino na ng mundo, posisyon sa Hindi masama ang nakatira sa ibang bansa para marami sa mataas na magnais ng matagumpay na buhay ngunit bago pa man sa isang limitadong panahon atin ang pamamahala ito makamtan, kinakailangan pang pagdaanan ni Juan ang ng trabaho. nangangarap ng isang hirap at tiyaga ng pagkawalay sa kanyang mga mahal sa Ayon sa tala ng Philippine mangibang- dayuhang buhay at tiisin ang mag- isang pangungulila sa isang Statistics Authority, may bansa sa kompanya bansang dayuhan. humigit-kumulang 2.2 pagnanais na at dahil milyong OFWs na naroon magkaroon dito, mas sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng ng maunlad na nagkakaroon ng mundo mula Abril hanggang pamumuhay. malaking Setyembre ng nakaraang Narito ang iba, pagkakataon sa mataas na taon. pero hindi limitadong, antas ng pamumuhay— Malamang ay noong mga dahilan kung bakit bagay na mahirap makamit musmos pa lamang si Juan nangingibang bansa ang sa mga kompanya dito sa ating mga kababayan: -ALEXANDRA V. BACHOCO Pilipinas lalo na kapag hindi ay nakaukit na sa kanyang Hanap. Contract. Deal. nakapagtapos ng pag-aaral. isipan at kasama na sa Nakikipagsapalaran si Doble Kara: Dual listahan ang makarating sa Juan upang matustusan ang Citizenship ibang bansa—kung hindi pamilya at magkaroon ng pasweldo Mayroon din sa mga OFW man ang manirahan ay para mas mahusay na pamantayan ng ibang ang nagnanais ng regular naman magtrabaho upang ng pamumuhay. Ito ang bansa kaysa na trabaho at nagpaplanong makamit ang mas matiwasay pangunahing dahilan kung dito sa Pilipinas. maging permanenteng na pamumuhay. bakit ang isang Pinoy ay Hindi baleng malayo sa mamamayan ng isang bansa. Likas na Lakas ng mga Pilipino Ano nga ba ang mayroon Pilipino. Ngunit kinikilala Sinisimbolo ng diwang ito Napakalaking dagok ang ang lahat ay nagkaisa sa sa Pilipinas na naiiba sa ang mga Pinoy bilang likas ang pagkakabuklod-buklod naranasan ng mga Pinoy pagdadasal na matuldukan NINA EZRA CHRISLAINE L. ORTEGA AT ibang bahagi ng mundo? Ano na masayahin anumang at mapayapang pagsasama noong mga panahon na na ang labanan. IVEE E. MANGUILIMOTAN nga ba ang katangian ng mga pagsubok ang maranasan at sistema ng pagtutulungan iyon ngunit naisabuhay Saksi ang mga mga lolo’t Pilipinong nagbibigkis sa sapagkat nagagawa pa rin sa isang bayan anumang ang lagyo ng pakikiisa ng lola natin sa pakikipagbuno Marami nang mga hamon bawat isa? nating tumawa, bumangon, unos ang humagupit: sakuna, maraming organisasyon at ng mga huwarang Pilipino— sa buhay ang naranasan Saan mang lupalop lumaban, at magpatuloy. giyera, o korapsyon man. indibidwal na nag-abot ng para sa ngalan ng kalayaan— ng mga Pilipino. Mula sa ng mundo, hindi tulong upang mabigyan ng laban sa rehimeng Marcos diskriminasyon sa kamay maipagkakailang may mga Mula sa sinaunang Katulad na lamang noong pansamantalang pagkain, noong 1970s. Libo-libo ang ng mga dayuhan hanggang Pilipinong naninirahan konsepto ng bayanihan lindol na naganap sa Gitnang damit, at tirahan ang mga namatay upang makamit sa mga sakunang naidulot o nagtatrabaho sa mga ng pagbubuhat ng bahay Visayas (Bohol) sa taong 2012 biktima. lamang ang inaasam na ng kalikasan, nananatili pa dayuhang bayan upang ng iyong kasamahan, sa na naitalang pinakamamatay demokrasya, at sa huli’y ring matatag na nagkakaisa mairaos lamang ang naiwang paglago ng modernisasyon na lindol sa bansa sa loob Makikita ang labis na hindi naman nasayang ang ang sambayanan anuman pamilya sa Pilipinas. Ito ang sa mundo, mas lalong ng 23 taon at sa kasunod na pighati ngunit mabilis na mga dugong dumanak at ang delubyong kinakaharap; reyalidad na kinakaharap ng umiigting ang pananalaytay taon, nangyari na naman ang pagbangon ng mga Pilipino. mga buhay na naibuwis. Sa sagisag ng mga Pinoy ang isang tipikal na pamilyang ng hilagyo ng bayanihan pinakamalakas na bagyong Kahit sa gitna ng delubyong pagbabalik-tanaw, malalim pagpupunyagi. sa dugo ng bawat Pinoy. Yolanda sa buong mundo. nagdulot ng kawalan ng pa rin ang sugat na iniwan tirahan at hanapbuhay, -EARL JOHN D. PABULAR nagagawa parin ng mga ng martial law, ngunit Pinoy na tumawa at magsaya. hanggang ngayon, patuloy pa rin ang laban at hindi Isa pang pangyayari sa na muling papayagan ang bansa ang hindi malilimutan paglago ng diktaturya sa ng mga Pilipino—ang bansa. Bunga ng pagkakaisa labanan sa Marawi. Limang ng sambayanan, narito tayo buwan ang itinagal ng ngayo’t tinatamasa ang bakbakan sa Marawi sa kalayaan. pagitan ng puwersa ng Sa paglipas ng panahon, Pamahalaan ng Pilipinas ang mga tradisyong at ang mga kaakibat na bayanihan ay unti-unting militante ng Islamikong nababago at naiaakma Estado ng Irak at ang Levant, sa panahon, ngunit ang kabilang ang mga pangkat kabutihan at intensyon nito ng Maute at Abu Sayyaf na ay nagiging mas dinamiko nagsimula pa noong ika- lamang. Dahil sa pundasyon 23 ng Mayo, taong 2017. ng bayanihan sa puso ng Ang labanang ito ay naging bawat isa, makakaasa ang pinakamahabang digmaan ninuman na kahit gaano sa pook na urbano sa man kalalim ang unos, makabagong kasaysayan ng makakaahon pa rin ang mga Pilipinas. Pilipino. Ito ang nag-uudyok sa atin na patuloy na lumaban Kasunod ng pangyayaring upang mabuhay. Nakakintal ito ay ang mabilis na aksiyon sa puso, isipan, at dugo ng ng mga netizens upang mag bawat Pinoy ang hilagyo ng bayanihan para makabuo unyon at kaunlaran. Saksi ng listahan ng evacuation ang mga ninuno natin sa mga centers at hotlines na katiwalian at korapsyong tutulong sa mga naapektuhan laganap sa sistema—ilang ng bakbakan. Aksyon ang taon pa man ang lumipas, naging daan upang mabigyan hindi mawawala sa Pinoy ng mga pang araw-araw na ang rason na lumaban pangangailangan ang mga sapagkat naipapasa sa bawat residenteng naapektuhan henerasyon ang apoy ng ng digmaan, kagaya ng mga himagsikan. kilalang unibersidad na Walang maliligtas kung nagbigay ng kanilang mga walang pagtutulungan; donasyon, mga organisasyon walang progreso kung at mga personalidad na nag- walang adhikain; at lalong organisa ng fund-raising, walang bayan kung wala ang at iba pang mga aktibidad pagbabayanihan. para sa benepisyo ng mga taga-Marawi. Higit sa lahat, THE OFFICIAL STUDENT MEDIA CORPS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE · USLS STUDENT ACTIVITY CENTER, LA SALLE AVE., BACOLOD CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL 6100 · VOLUME 65 NUMBER 3 · JULY TO AUGUST 2020

DAKBANWA 13 JULY TO AUGUST 2020 | VOLUME 65 NO. 3 Pagtaub o Paghunas?: Paghimutad sa Baciwa Joint Venture NI ALAN S. VILLANUEVA JR. period suno sa pag-anunsyo nina BACIWA chairman Atty. “Paninghiwalaan man sang BACIWA Board kag mga Lorendo Dilag kag Prime Water Vice President Romeo dumaan nga opisyal, ginduhol na nila ang pagdumala kag Makahilidlaw ang naglinigad—sang ang mainit nga Sabater sang Hulyo 17. operasyon sa isa ka pribado nga korporasyon,” hambal ni paghakos sa matugnaw nga gab-i kag ang mabugnaw nga BEU president Leny Espina. paghalok sa mainit nga ugto, nga sa’ton adlaw-adlaw Handum sang kasugtanan nga kabulig ang korporasyon nagapapagsik kag nagapatawhay, ang gainawas pa sa mga sang pamilya sang sadto nga Senate President Manny Villar Suno kay Sabater, pakahawiran gihapon sang BACIWA ang suba kag sapa. Apang, mabalik pa ayhan ang tion nga ang nga mapauswag ang distribusyon sa 90 porsyento sang pagmando, pagpatuman sang mga plano, kag paggarantiya tubig magadinaguso sa aton nagamala nga kalawasan? populasyon adlaw-adlaw. nga mapatuman sang korporasyon ang mga nasaad base sa natalana nga oras. Ang tubig matuod guid nga kinahanglanon sang Nasulat diri ang paghatag sang P6.3 bilyon na pamuhunan katawhan pero nagapabilin man nga palaligban sang nga nagalakip sang P1.6 bilyon para sa pipe laying sa una “May mga pagsaka sa tariff sa idalom sang joint venture. Bacolod City Water District (BACIWA). Siling ni BACIWA nga lima ka tuig kag P2 bilyon para sa pagtakod sang mga Indi gilayon sa Nobyembre 1, pero sigurado nga may ara sa Assistant General Manager for Operations Engr. Jenelyn bubon, pagdul-ong sang mas madako nga suplay sa tubig, dalagan sang tiempo,” gin-ako ni Sabater. Yap-Gemora, 48 porsyento lang sang mga pumuluyo ang kag kompensasyon sang mga empleyado pagkatapos sang maserbisyuhan. lima ka tuig. Matapos ang kasugtanan, magapabilin ang Sa pag-uporay sang korporasyon kag Marilao Water mga namitlang nga pagkabutang kag iban nga madugang sa District sa Bulacan, nag-angkon ini sang P50.55 milyon Para sabton ini, kaupod ang Prime Water Infrastructure iya kadugayon sa BACIWA. water losses, nag-maniobra sang kasulatan para mapataas Corporation, nagpirma ang nasambit nga katilingban sa ang pagsukot kag makalikaw sa kontrol sang gobyerno, kag isa ka 25-year joint venture agreement nga magasugod sa Sa pihak nga bahin, gakontra si City Councilor Archie nagkulang sa paghatag sang mga nakolekta kag pagbayad Nobyembre 1 pagkatapos sang three-month transition Baribar, ang Amlig Tubig nga isa ka alyansa ka water sang franchise tax. concessionaires, kag ang Baciwa Employees Union (BEU), bangud sang pagpati nga pagkapribado ini sang tubig. Tungod sang malain nga dungog sini, nagalaum naman si Baribar nga matuman sang Prime Water ang mga natug-an. Biosafety Lab ginbuksan sa Bacolod PHOTO COURTESY OF THE VISAYAN DAILY STAR NI PATRICK N. BILLOJAN KAG Suno naman kay Convocar, ang ADRIANNE H. SAPLAGIO molecular laboratory—nga amo ang ika-78 nga molecular lab sa bilog nga Nagpatukod sang pinakauna nga Pilipinas, ika-apat sa rehiyon, kag hospital-based Level 3 testing ika-duha sa probinsya sang Negros laboratory sa Pilipinas ang Occidental—makabulig para sa syudad sang Bacolod kaupod ang mas madasig nga pagkolekta kag Department of Health (DOH), para pag-eksamina sang mga specimen, mapabakod kag mapadasig ang kag mas madasig nga paggwa sang pagtapna sang coronavirus disease resulta sang swab tests. (COVID) ligad Hulyo 11. Ang CLMMRH-Bacolod City Ginpangunahan ni Mayor Evelio Biolab sarang makaobra sang “Bing” Leonardia kag ni Lone District 100 ka mga reverse transcription Rep. Greg Gasataya upod kanday polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) DOH-Western Visayas Regional tests kada adlaw nga may lakip nga Director Dr. Marlyn Convocar tatlo ka-adlaw nga turnaround time. kag Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital Ang ini nga laboratoryo (CLMMRH) Medical Center Chief nakapasar na sa Proficiency Test ka Dr. Julius Drilon ang inagurasyon DOH kag makabulig man ini para sang CLMMRH-Bacolod City mabal-an kung positibo sa SARS- Biosafety Level 3 (BSL3) Molecular COV-2 ang pasyente. Laboratory nga nagabalor sang malapit P30 milyones. Naghatag man sang pagtamod si Drilon sa lokal nga panguluhan Naghatag ang syudad sang P14 sang syudad sa suporta sa regional milyones para sa pagpatindog hospital para mapatindog ang sang mga istraktura ka laboratoryo molecular laboratory, tungod kag P4.8 milyones para magbakal para sa iya, ang pag-abri sang sang mga equipment reagents kag laboratoryo isa sa mga kinahanglan COVID-19 testing kits. ka syudad para indi na maglapta pa kag sa dason masupna na gid man “Ang amo ni nga biolab ang virus. makonsiderar nga isa ka siyentipiko kag mas epektibo nga paagi para Dugang pa, magagasto ang syudad matapna ang COVID-19,” saad ni sang kapin P68 milyones kada bulan Leonardia. para mapadayon ang operasyon ka biolab. BCD mayor ginbotar bilang presidente sang LCP NI MA. KRISTINE JOY R. BAYADOG KAG sang Negros KIARA NICOLE D. VILLA Occidental nga magabuylog Ginakabig nga kasaysayan man sa National sang siyudad sang Bacolod ang pagpungko ni Bacolod Executive Board sang LCP: Silay City Mayor Evelio “Bing” City Mayor Mark Leonardia bilang bag-o nga presidente sang League of Andrew Golez bilang regional Cities of the Philippines representative (LCP) bangud siya ang pinaka-una nga alkalde sang sang Western Visayas, Bago siyudad nga magapungko City bilang pinakataas nga Mayor Nicholas Yulo opisyal sang organisasyon. bilang deputy- Gindeklarar si secretary general Leonardia nga nagbulos kay Angeles City Mayor sang Visayas, kag Victorias City Edgardo Pamintuan para Mayor Francis magapanguna sa liga para sa 2019-2022 nga panag- Frederick PHOTO COURTESY OF LCP.ORG Palanca bilang on sa ginhiwat nga ika-68 deputy PRO sang nagahandum nga bilang alkalde, sumugod Leonardia sang iya suporta Suno pa sa alkalde, nga General Assembly and Election sang National Visayas. mapauswag ang ikaayo bilang bise presidente para para sa kampanya kontra dako nga pagtilaw sang 145 ka mga siyudad Executive Board sang LCP Ginakilala ang LCP sang pungsod kung sa diin sa Visayas sang tuig 1995, ilegal nga droga sang karon ang pagpungko niya deputy secretary-general sa EDSA Shangri-La, Manila bilang isa ka pormal nga subong nagapuyo ang halos nga administrasyon. bilang presidente sang sang Visayas sang tuig sang ika-19 sang Hulyo. organisasyon nga ginhimo 40 milyones ukon katunga 2004, vice chairman sang Dugang niya pa, organisasyon tungod Kaupod ni Leonardio ni anay presidente Corazon sang populasyon sang 2007, bise presidente sang dapat naga-ugyon ang nakaangot diri ang 2010, kag deputy secretary- sa bag-o nga termino si Aquino sang tuig 1987 sa Pilipinas. general liwat sang Visayas LCP sa mga tulumuron responsibilidad nga Quezon City Mayor Joy idalom sang Executive Nangin aktibo si sang tuig 2016. sang gobyerno nasyonal pauswagon ang mga Sa iya nga acceptance Belmonte bilang Executive Order No. 262 kag ginpasad Leonardia sa National pamaagi sa pagtulod kag sangay sang lokal nga speech, nagpabutyag si Vice President kag ang sang tuig 1991 sa idalom Executive Board sang LCP pagsuporta sa mga plano gobyerno agod makahatag iban nga mga opisyales sang R.A. 7160, Section 499. sa anum niya ka termino sang administrasyon para sang kalidad nga serbisyo Ang LCP amo ang sa pungsod. publiko. THE OFFICIAL STUDENT MEDIA CORPS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE · USLS STUDENT ACTIVITY CENTER, LA SALLE AVE., BACOLOD CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL 6100 · VOLUME 65 NUMBER 3 · JULY TO AUGUST 2020

JULY TO AUGUST 2020 | VOLUME 65 NO. 3 SLANT 14 Likido -CHRISTIAN DOMINIC L. LEDESMA NI PATRICK N. BILLOJAN Madumduman ko ang katahum sang pagpangabuhi sa mga likido. Yara ini sa balhas nga gatulo sa akon nga lawas human sang pila ka oras nga paglibod sang taho sumugod sa pagbutlak sang adlaw. Yara ini sa dugo matapos masamaran sang matalom nga kutsilyo ang kamot nga hinay-hinay nga nagahiwa sang lab-as nga mga isda nga wala pa naubos hantud magkari ang gab-i. Yara ini sa luha nga nagtulo sa akon nga mga mata matapos magpuli bitbit ang bugas kag sardinas nga nabakal gikan sa ginansiya sa taguri nga paghimakas. Sa amo to nga ti-on, matam-is nga yuhom ang naghaplak sa akon nga guya—kay pagkatapos sang madamo nga likido, nakatilaw man gid ang akon kalawasan sang maayad-ayad na tubig nga nagpadumdom sa akon liwat sang matuod-tuod nga kasadya sang pagpangabuhi. “Tay, nakalampuwas na sa eskwela ang imo nga bata.” -TRIZIA C. HASSIM Puluy-an Na’san ka Juan? NI KYNAH RHEA B. FUENTES NI PAULA MAE E. VILLAROSA Indi ka nagakaangay Dati’y nakukuha mo pang ngumiti sa imo nga ginapuy-an. kahit hanggang bewang Gakabalaka ako ang nilulusungang tubig bahang malagkit. kung natak-an ka naman bala sang inadlaw nga pag-abang sang lunhaw nga hapin Dati’y nakukuha mo pang umindak kahit ang lupang kinatatayuan, sa imo huyang nga likod. Saksi ako anumang oras, ay maaaring gumuho’t bumitak. sang paghimud-os mo nga Dati’y nakukuha mo pang humimig muklaton ang mga mata. kahit dumadagundong ang pag-ulyaw ng mga bala’t bomba Makita lang ang pagduaw sang kasanag sang hapon nga imo gina abi-abi mula sa kanlungang ako’y iyong ikinubli. sa hiligdaan. Oh, Juan— Indi ko na matakos ang mga beses ako’y nangungulila sa’yong yapos nga kita gapakadto pakari sa ini nga lugar— nagahupot sa paglaum nga aton gina-angkon na siyang init sa lamig. hangtud sa kahangturan. Nais kong muling masaksihan Akon lamang nahibaluan ang ningning ng ‘yong mga matang nga sa kada biya ta sa sini nga puluy-an, tila’y munting ilaw sa gitna ng karimlan. indi matungkad ang aton kahilwayan. Kahit maaninag ko man lamang Sa sini nga ti-on, ang tilad ng ‘yong anino’y malawig-lawig ang aton pagtinir— papanatag na ang nababalisa kong puso. akon ina gakabatyagan. Apang, Oh, Juan— hangad ko’y muling dira na ako nagsala. Dali na lamang nga tini-on ang nabilin sa aton mapangiti, mapaindak, sa sini nga hulut. mapaawit Ilabi na gid sa imo sa kabila ng lagim at unos nga nagapalanglapsi na, ng mundo— apang padayon nga ginabatu-an sa piling mo. ang pagsira sang mga mata -KIARA NICOLE D. VILLA samtang pilit nga nagahawid ang imo mga palad sa akon nga butkon. Kung tani kita gintugutan sang dugang pa nga adlaw nga kita makapuyo liwat. Apang ako magabuya na, indi tungod nga gusto ko, kundi tungod kinanglan ko. Taglagas sa Tag-araw NI CARL HASON T. GERALE Manghang nakatuon ang dalawang pares ng mata sa taglagas, nakamasid sa paghalik ng kayumangging mga papel sa kalupaan. Nangungulila na si Mikoy sa kanyang mama. Ilang araw pa bago ito makakauwi mula sa trabaho nito sa ospital. At sa nalalabing oras ay plano niyang magbibingi-bingihan sa mga putak ng kanyang Tia habang nakatunganga sa mga sanga. At ayun nga ang kanyang ginawa, hanggang sa napukaw ang kaniyang atensyon sa dagundong ng puting kotse. Nakauwi na ang kanyang mama. Sumapit ang gabi at nakatanga pa rin si Mikoy sa balkonahe, sipat-sipat ang berdeng trapal sa bakuran. Malapad ito kung kaya’t walang mumunting mga papel ang lumulusot sa kanyang paningin. Nagpagpag siya‘t tinungo ang sala kung saan naroroon ang magkapatid, isip-isip pa rin ang narra sa bakuran. Nadatnan niyang humahagulgol ang isa, samantalang ang isa’y tahimik na nagpapahinga sa lilim ng dilaw na ilaw. Siguro nalagas na lahat. Tahimik siyang umupo sa tabi ng Tia. -ANNA THERESA S. PARAYNO THE OFFICIAL STUDENT MEDIA CORPS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE · USLS STUDENT ACTIVITY CENTER, LA SALLE AVE., BACOLOD CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL 6100 · VOLUME 65 NUMBER 3 · JULY TO AUGUST 2020

JULY TO AUGUST 2020 | VOLUME 65 NO. 3 1890 Ang tuig sang gintunga LEISURE 15 ang Negros sa duha BY THE NUMBERS ka probinsya: Negros How‘Pinoy’are you? Occidental kag Negros 1849 Gindeklara ang Bacolod Oriental. Complete the crossword puzzle below. This puzzle bilang kapital sang illustrates interesting Filipino facts and depicts probinsya. what’s best of the Pinoy. 1917Marso 10 Opisyal nga ginhimo probinsya ang Negros Occidental. 1898Nobyembre 3-6 Natabo ang mga 1980Oktubre 19 Una nga gin-saulog kahimtangan sa ang Masskara Festival. Rebolusyon Negros. sang KOMIKSERYE “Buhay-t3rr0r1st4” -Angela A. Coronel “Kaya Today” To be continued. Across Down 2. It’s a Pinoy celebration 1. The delights of the Kailangan niyo pa -Trizia C. Hassim pong mag swab at its pious and riotous best trip we bring home to our test bago maka uwi. To be continued. either for a patron saint of families, and a wonderful Maghintay po muna the town’s charter day. excuse to shop without the kayo. -Anna Theresa S. Parayno customary guilt. 4. A beauty contest “Online Lang, Wala Klase” with religious overtones 3. Colorful public utility featuring St. Helena’s and vehicles that serve as a Constantine’s search for the symbol of Filipino ingenuity. Cross that seamlessly blends both ritual and pageantry. 5. Boiled egg with unhatched duck’s embryo 6. Love potions that help that most outsiders almost socially awkward Pinoys get never acknowledge. a taste of love. 7. Neither pale nor dark, 8. A pickpocket’s paradise typical Pinoy’s skin tone that and is usually smelly and embodies the color of a rich crowded, but everyone’s go- earth or a mahogany tree to shopping place because of growing towards the sun. rock-bottom prices. 9. Literally translates to 10. Truly Filipino in origin. “being a bayan”. Need help? Was once a hunting tool and Every household has the weapon but is now a toy. spirit of communal unity and Every child learns the best cooperation. way to “walk the dog” and “rock the baby,” using just a piece of string. KEY:1. Pasalubong, 2. Fiesta, 3. Jeepneys, 4. Santacruzan, 5. Balut, 6. Gayuma, 7. Kayumanggi, 8. Divisoria, 9. Bayanihan, 10. Yoyo To be continued. Wikationary BY CHRISTIAN DOMINIC L. LEDESMA | ART BY TRIZIA C. HASSIM Given the archipelagic feature of the Philippines, foreigners flock and visit the country for its alluring landmarks and tourist attractions. But what makes their stay here unforgettable is the warm hospitality and friendliness that oozes out of Filipinos towards them. Here are some of the usual conversational lines of Filipinos when talking to foreigners. Sir/Ma’am/Boss - “Hey boss/ing!”, “Yes ma’am/sir”. Filipinos are known to be very polite— conversations and greetings are usually followed up with a “Sir/Ma’am” or “Boss/ing”, more so to foreigners. It comes off as a sign of respect and politeness towards others. What is Your Name?/Where Are You From? - This is commonly the first question Filipinos bring up when befriending a foreigner as Filipinos are usually curious about foreign culture. It’s a good way for Filipinos to ease in and start a conversation, but after that, it’s all up to the person if they end up with a ‘nosebleed’ or not. Nosebleed - Ever hear “Ay nakaka nosebleed naman”? That’s usually a Filipino having such a difficult time trying to communicate in English or understand what the foreigner is saying that they end up getting a nosebleed from being confused. It’s a carefree way of saying they enjoy the company but to communicate in a way that they could understand. There/”Doon” - Paired with their lips pointing towards the same way, Filipinos tend to say these lines when foreigners ask for directions. It’s a simple way of guiding tourists when Filipinos have difficulty translating it to English. Welcome to the Philippines! - A warm greeting Filipinos use to make foreigners feel welcome in the country. This is a phrase that stands for Philippine hospitality. A Next time you’re going out—once the pandemic is over—and happen to overhear a Filipino-to- foreigner conversation, or if you’re just chilling during quarantine watching some foreigner’s vlog visiting the country, lines like these are sure to come up. Who knows, you might say these lines yourself! THE OFFICIAL STUDENT MEDIA CORPS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE · USLS STUDENT ACTIVITY CENTER, LA SALLE AVE., BACOLOD CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL 6100 · VOLUME 65 NUMBER 3 · JULY TO AUGUST 2020

VOLUME 65 NUMBER 3 JULY TO AUGUST 2020 BACOLOD FOOTBALL CLUB REBRANDS BY LANCE CHRISTIAN M. JUAREZ in the way he poured his personal manager, and planned on having in preparation for the fourth season —PHOTO COURTESY OF PANAY NEWS resources and steered the club to Risto Vidakovic return as head coach. of the Philippines Football League Edwin Gastanes assured the football In a press release last July 23, Ceres unprecedented heights since it was (PFL) as well as the continuation of club’s participation: “[The club’s slot] Negros Football Club, a Bacolod- formed eight years ago,” the team “The aim is to keep the team and the Asian Football Confederation belongs to the country, to a particular based professional football club, shared in their statement. staff together as much as possible, (AFC) Cup and, despite the transfer club in the country. Considering the officially announced its transfer of and allow them [the] well-deserved of ownership, the Philippine situation, the AFC will look at it with ownership to MMC Sportz Asia, As a result of the new ownership, change to continue to play football Football Federation (PFF) is willing to kind eyes.” a Dubai and Manila-based sports Ceres Negros has been renamed to amid all the challenges that everyone negotiate with AFC. marketing agency. United City Football Club, retained 16 has been facing,” Gottschalk As PFL’s three-time defending out of their 21 registered players with expressed in the press release. In an online press conference held champion, United City Football Club This was the latest major Ace Bright staying as their general by the PFF, secretary-general Atty. will make sure that Ceres Negros’ development when the team released Amid this turn of events, the club is legacy is not ending anytime soon. a statement last July 8, explaining that they were having conversations with investors regarding the club’s ownership and that their Club Chairman Leo Rey Yanson will not be involved with the club after the transfer. “We would like to honor the legacy which Mr. Yanson created when he founded the Ceres Negros Club and we will try to continue the development of Philippine football, especially the professional league and the National Team,” Founder and CEO of MMC Sportz Asia Eric M. Gottschalk said. An article by the Philippine Daily Inquirer states that Yanson let go of the club due to financial constraints brought about by the pandemic that affected the Yanson Group of Bus Companies. “This is one of the toughest decisions made by Mr. Yanson,whose passion for football was reflected TIMEOUT Striving to Get Back on Track Taking Action in the New Normal BY ADRIANNE H. SAPLAGIO BY SHAN MARC O. JABAGAT AND from their coaches who volunteered as they remain steadfast in researching CARL HASON T. GERALE their services. modified training programs thatwould In movies, varsity players are —INOCENCIO JOHN KEITH B. FERRER V be useful during the current times. more often than not depicted He explained that though There are two kinds of rushes that USLS Sports Director Joseph as jocks whose lives revolve they are not allowed to spur champions into action: one is the Christian H. Fernandez expressed that Whenaskedif theplayersstillreceive solely around their sport. What participate in competitions onslaught of the adrenaline in motion they will try their best in adjusting the assistance, the office ensures they have these movies fail to express this year, they still remain as and the other is the feel of the wind players’ mindset to one’s significance their scholarships; but for John Rey, he is that they deal with just as members of the varsity team, slapping against skin across the expanse as a student-athlete—even without finds himself in trying times as Ceres many problems as regular and thus, they get to keep they know toowell. And for the mentors competition. announced that they can no longer students—they struggle with their scholarships—a small who primed thesewinners, the thrill lies provide food, allowance, and dormitory their academics, wrestle for letup from all the negativity in watching them own the field. With On assessing their players’ well- for their players due to the losses caused balance in their social lives, everyone is surrounded with the pandemic sidestepping premade being, the office emphasized constant by the pandemic. However, he remains and face the financial burden right now. plans and turning cheers into the silent communication in any way possible grateful for the support given by the of university fees as well. One Quin aired out his buzz of sports reruns, an emergency as they continue to zero in on more company. might even argue that they are disappointment that they can plan takes into action. formation activities like journal faced with a few more dilemmas no longer compete for the reflections to help them in spiritual and The pandemic changed the kind of during this pandemic. nationals this year. He added The sudden shift in routine is psychological aspects. normal that both athletes and varsity that nationals pose an excellent enough of a curveball to falter anyone officers are very familiar with. The Meet Quin Aldrich Canapit, a chance for promising athletes on their feet. However, for the Forvarsity players Eri Ann Songaling office holds on to threads of hope that third-year BS Biology student to get scouted and attain a Institutional Varsity Sports Office, and John Rey Delibios, who are finding the crisis will not take away the beauty and a member of the track and higher discount in their school the work goes on as plans are already ways to keep their drive running, the of sports. As for Eri Ann and John Rey, field varsity team for over four fees. laid out to resume the varsity sports office’s initiative kept the ball rolling for they hope like their fellow players: to years now. “It made me a more When the present is filled program for their continuing student- them as this is what they are used to— become a better athlete and to finish disciplined student because I with complications and athletes with compliance to health being exposed to the action. with a degree. After all, everyone knows needed to balance my studies setbacks, one must remember protocols. The program aims to sustain the action still exists—only this time, and running,” he expressed, that tomorrow is inevitable. We student-athletes’ physical and mental This year is different for them—no it’s in their home turf, waiting for the adding that winning gold are bound to have a new day, a conditioning on their own, with aid training or even competitions to look time to get that adrenaline into the medals in competitions gives new chance—a new beginning. forward to. Both players are low in fields once again. him a sense of satisfaction. Though it is by no means easy, spirit for the loss of opportunity but like Quin, getting back on track the office offers a flare of reassurance As they deal with other is the first step we all have to problems similar to ours, take to survive this adversity. PH Chessers to tussle in FIDE they also had to deal with not knowing what to do with BY PATRICK N. BILLOJAN country,” Paragua, who bannered the the country’s current highest rated their time during our days of Philippines in the Olympiad four chess player with an Elo of 2564, quarantine. His routine used Six Filipino woodpushers are set to times—in 2002, 2004, 2006, and conceded his participation in the to be composed of running and take kings and add another feather 2012—told Philstar. qualifiers, saying that he is not in his workouts, but he has ceased to their caps in the first-ever FIDE competitive form. his running sessions in light (Federation Internationale des Besides Paragua, Grandmasters of the community quarantine. Echecs) Online Chess Olympiad from Joey Antonio, Darwin Laylo, The 33-year-old chesser along “Since online classes have just July 22 to August 30. and Rogelio Barcenilla as well with Barcenilla, Laylo, Bersamina, started, my routine changed as International Masters Paolo Pascua, and Grandmaster John Paul and I’ve been trying to get back Onehundredsixty-threeteamsand Bersamina and Haridas Pascua are Gomez were meant to compete in into study mode by doing my over 1,500 participants from all over set to play and jostle board 1 and the 44th World Chess Olympiad in assignments immediately,” he the world will make their chessmen board 2 that will feature seasoned Moscow but it was scrapped due to shared. move in search of the laurels on the woodpushers and the world’s A-list. the pandemic. 64-square checkerboard through the Quin also reminds the Chess.com server. “The Olympiad is really a “Such gathering is not physically Lasallian community to take prestigious tournament so for sure all possible under the current good care of themselves in both The Philippine team is headed of them are really prepared and eager circumstances but the Online the physical and mental sense. by 36-year-old Grandmaster Mark to qualify,” Pascua stated in a private Olympiad will serve the purpose of “Do what you can do to cope Paragua, the first Filipino to lock an message sent to the Philippine News reminding us of these important with the possible anxiety over Elo rating, a method used to calculate Agency. concepts: the celebration of quarantine. Be productive and skill levels of players in zero-sum diversity, the exchange of ideas, dive into a new hobby—most of games, of 2600. Pascua also stated that he is excited the sportsmanship, and the mutual all, spend time with your loved to face off against the country’s top respect between people and cultures,” ones,” Quin said. “It is always an honor to be players and that he expects nothing FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich given a chance to represent the but hewill just give his best to qualify. conveyed. Meanwhile, Julio Catalino Sadorra, E-MAIL [email protected] FACEBOOK facebook.com/thespectrumusls ISSUU issuu.com/thespectrumusls INSTAGRAM @thespectrum.usls TWITTER @TheSpectrumUSLS