Ang Ikalawang Paglayag

22 I AM BEAUTY 11 20WOMEN BANGA! DALIKAN! EMPOWERMENT MALABI! 14 BREAKING TABOOS ABOUT SEXUAL HEALTH TOPICS THROUGH AYAT

LET TER EDSEL HARRY TURDA FROM EDITOR-IN-CHIEF THE EDITOR JAMICO CRIS JINGCO ALTHEA DELA CRUZ Sa paglalayag patungo sa kasarinlan, hindi mo mahihinuha kung saan ka ASSOCIATE EDITORS pupulutin. Ngunit ang bangka ng kaalaman ay hindi kailanman naliligaw sa kanyang direksyon. CHRISTELLE ALYNNA S. AGUSTIN Maraming dadaungang isla na puno ng iba’t ibang kwento na kapupulotan ANGEL ALYSSA PASCUA ng aral. Mga kultura’t tradisyon, pagkakakilanlan, pamumuhay at edukasyon na RIZZA SWERTE URBINA siyang babaunin patungo sa paglalakbay sa milya-milyang henerasyon. MANAGING EDITORS Hanggang saan at hanggang kailan maglalayag ang ating bangka? Inyo nang buklatin ang mga pahina na tiyak magdadala sa kasagutan ng inyong mga GRAZIELLE REINA S. LARAN katanungan. MARIA ANNA JESSICA ROSQUETA Simulan na natin ang Paglayag! CIRCULATIONS MANAGERS EDSEL HARRY TURDA EDITOR-IN-CHIEF SHAINA DWINE PABLO NEWS EDITOR CONTRIBUTORS JESUSA MAE SOMAOANG JESUSA MAE SUMAOANG // FEATURE EDITOR FEATURES EDITOR SHE’S A 4TH YEAR BA COMMUNICATION STUDENT, WHO’S ONLY WAY OF EXPRESSING HERSELF, IS THROUGH WRIT- ING. SHE’S FOND OF TAKING PHOTOS OF THE SKY, AND SUNSETS. IF NOT BUSY WITH ACADEMICS OR WRITING, SHE’D PRINCESS ALYZZA A. CALAMAYAN BE BUSY FINISHING A WHOLE ANIME/KDRAMA/CDRAMA/JDRAMA SERIES. LITERARY EDITOR GRAZIEL MAE RAMAT ADRIANNE LORENZO CORPUZ A 20-YEAR-OLD CAFFEINATED STUDENT NURSE WHO WANTS TO BE A PROFESSIONAL JAPANESE-ENGLISH MANGA/ SPORTS EDITOR LIGHT NOVEL TRANSLATOR OR A SEA TURTLE SHELL BRUSHER (AMONG 99+ OTHERS). SHE WRITES WITHOUT RULES, ONLY WITH FEELINGS. ISSUE LAYOUT BY: JAYSON SABONG NEIL BRYANT BALIAO A MAN ILLUMINATED BY THE FIRE AND EMPOWERED BY THE HEART. HE IS A PHARMACY STUDENT, A SIRIB YOUTH SCHOLAR AND EXCHANGE STUDENT OF KU-EOL PROGRAM, A PROLIFIC FEATURE, SCI-TECH WRITER & CARTOONIST VISUALS EDITOR SINCE GRADE SCHOOL AND BROADCASTER DURING SENIOR LEVEL. ANTHONY JOSEPH V. DUYAO RANDY GIANAN LAYOUT ARTIST A COMMUNICATION STUDENT WHO PURSUES THE DEGREE FOR FUTURE PUBLIC SERVICE. A STUDENT LEADER WHO SERVES HIS CONSTITUENTS FOR EXCELLENCE. STUDENT JOURNALIST WHO SPEAKS FOR FAIRNESS. WITHAL, A IAN PAUL R. VILLANUEVA; DANA MERYLL GAPAS; PERSON WHO SHINES THE COLORS BEYOND ON WHAT THEY COULD SEE. GRAZIEL MAE G. RAMAT; KYLE NOJEN O. ANDRES; ADRIANNE LORENZO CORPUZ JAMES CARLO LUCAS; WARREN RACILES; MARY ENZO IS THE SPORTS EDITOR OF SIRMATA, AND A STUDENT OF BACHELOR OF ARTS IN COMMUNI- GRACE TAJON; MARC LOUIE PASION WRITERS / CATION. HE IS AN AMID FAN OF LITERATURE, AND AN ASPIRING PURSUANT OF A WORTHY STORY CASMIR REMYELL CADIENTE PHOTOJOURNALIST / FOR HIMSELF. AIRA NADINE Q. PASCUA; PAOLA JOY FRANCISCO; RANDY GIANAN LUJEAN GUIEB; ILLUSTRATORS/GRAPHICS BOUNDLESS, ONE WITHOUT LIMITS. A FOURTH-YEAR MARKETING STUDENT WHO AIMS TO MAKE A ARTISTS / MARK TO THOSE PEOPLE AROUND HIM. SOMEONE WHO FINDS JOY IN IN READING MURAKAMI AND A CERTIFIED SWIFTIE. EDMAR DELOS SANTOS; RANDY C. GIANAN JR.; HYUNG SUN JAMES MAESTRADO; RYAND ANGELO LUJEAN GUIEB UGALDE; JAYSON SABONG; JESSA MARIZ CORPUZ; ALSO KNOWN AS LUSHAN, IS A CURIOUS GROUP OF ATOMS EXPLORING THE CHAOTIC UNIVERSE OF ART. SHE STARTED AS A FREELANCE VIDEO EDITOR IN HIGH SCHOOL, AND EVER SINCE THEN, SHE’S BEEN EXPLORING DIF- CHRISTIAN JAY PERPUSE; CORRESPONDENTS / FERENT MEDIUMS OF ART. AS A FIRST-YEAR CPE STUDENT, ART HAS NOW BECOME AN ESCAPE FOR THE ARTIST. MR. BRYAN R. REALGO; DR. BRYAN ELI B. SADORRA TECHNICAL ADVISERS / DR. EDITHA B. VALDEZ ENGLISH CRITIC / PROF. DJOANNA D. PUNGTILAN FILLIPINO CRITIC / DR. MARLINA L. LINO ILOCANO CRITIC

ON 14 THE COVER IN THIS ISSUE FEB26 AYAT KAMPAY! RAISE 20 I AM BEAUTY THE BANGA! FLAG DALIKAN! MALABI! 22 10 P4 2022: A TIGER’S ROAR OF BRAVERY P6 A QUEEN RISING P12 SOPHIA: THE SEEKER OF ATHENA P16 STEPHANIE’S SWEETEST DREAMS P18 SABUNGANAY! NAGANUSKAY PAYLA UNAY P28 DRUNK ON CAFFEINE P30 THE PLACE OF THE MOST INNOCENT PRISONERS P32 ONE STEP AT A TIME P34 PEDAGOGY: RISING PHOENIXES AMIDST MALADY P36 TATAK WONDER WOMAN P38 KAPIT SA LUBID

2020 FEBRUARY 2022 4 SIRMATA

2022: A Tiger’s Roar of Bravery GRAZIEL MAE G. RAMAT In this era of everyone to take the leap gracefully like a tiger towards the things that we want to be. Like the rep- our lives resentation of a water tiger, having the strength and bravery is a must-have in life, and most especially, where everything seems to the self-esteem to make everything a reality. You want to make a new image for yourself? Go on. be in a fast pace, we go on with the Not really sure of your college course? Take your time to feel what you really want. Is your current work rushing flow of things for the sake of not being environment burning you out? Find a better one. You want to move out and start anew? No one is stopping left behind. In between these times, there are you. Want to establish an interesting small business? You got this! days when we feel like pausing for a moment to Taking risks and making changes–big or small–is in favour this Year of the Water Tiger. You have the ask ourselves… whole year of 2022 to find your enthusiasm in things back again. Who knows? The following years might “Am I actually in the right direction?” bear the fruits of what we will be planting today, since it just doesn't happen overnight. Like they say, “Do I really like this path in my life that I good things take time. Let us also take this opportunity to make and build have taken?” connections. One cannot grow alone; we don’t have everything that we need to grow. We need connec- “Am I actually following the signs tions, the people around us–to help us become the person that we want to be. Do not be afraid to fail and right?” be deceived, learn from every experience and mis- take that we will encounter. Some of us might thrive We doubt our choices. Doubt, with in the great leap, some might crash and burn; but remember, fortune favours the brave. the feeling of being lost in the This must be why the Tiger, in Chinese beliefs, is considered to be the king of all beasts. They conquer, endless possibilities of choic- and so should we. As we make choices in life, luck may not always be es, is scary. We are scared on our side, but as long as we have the will power and bravery to take the leap… things will always fit of changing our directions in their right places at the right time. At the end of the day–or the year rather, we will look back and can because we think that we say… “I’ve made the right choice, after all.” might be alone and lost when we choose the path with lesser travellers. We are scared of the possibility that, what if we’re just wasting time doubting? But what if we’re actually saving it for the things that will make us feel really… fulfilled? Happy? Content? Will it be worth it? The opportunities of the New Year 2022 might be the per- fect little push for FEBRUARY 2022 5 SIRMATA

BUSINESS & LIVELIHOOD Qa UErEisNingADRIANNELORENZOC.CORPUZ At the peak of mountains clasp the world of commerce today. business curriculum, stacked by currency are the Perceived as royalty-like, these Oamil is a bred entrepre- partakers of the richest ech- neur currently studying in elon of our society. With wealth as clever heads have long ruled the the College of Business, Economics, abundant as one can only imagine, business industry as methodical and Accountancy under the Bachelor these people are deemed as savant as the prepotent of the medieval of Science in Accountancy program. of business innovations and finan- period. But in their words it is an Her experience in her academic cial superintendence. Names like ancestral map for many aspirants. journey can be categorized as ex- Warren Buffet and Jeff Bezos are The hope of meeting success rem- tremely constructive for her ideals. only among the household identities iniscent of their testimony is an For the queen on the rise, the places of bill-dominant personalities that ignition to many business beginners, to rule over are now ready, and it is like Queenie Oamil. A student of FEBRUARY 2022 6 SIRMATA

her early steps that make her syn- Badoc, Bangui, Dingras, Laoag City, FAMILIAR INSPIRATIONS onymous with the billionaire men- Marcos, and Solsona. Oamil also tality of the aforementioned names. detailed that her business supplies From one light to another, passion certain samgyup dine-in shops in is ignited by a kindle of inspi- THE POWER AND THE BUSINESS the province. Seemingly progressive, ration. For the young owner, her she cleared that Samgyup Kween abstraction of business is an out- Oamil is recognized as the founder is just encountering its baby steps, turn of a chain-reaction swayed by of the “Samgyup Kween.” It is a or a small dent of what is already her parents. Passed in influences shop for Korean Barbecue on-the- planned for the succeeding path. from what she considers as people go fanatics. Yet, the symbol of the of extreme significance, this pow- business only expands from that, “I envisioned this business to last er-centric mentality of Samgyup as Samgyup Kween’s list of goods as long as my drive to run it last. I Kween is inspired by evident busi- are diverse, such as the prominent am geared with long-term vision, ness deeds. Family to family, her side dishes complimentary to the and luckily I have the motivation to mother showed her how capable main course. While the business pair this business with my future a driven person can be. Owning a seems ultra simplistic, every sub- aspirations. For me, this business, meat shop situated in their home- sisting detail expresses otherwise. or any business in particular, does town, Paoay, her parents appreciably The dedication it requires implies an not rely solely on its longevity, but clouted the purpose of profit-driven abstract beauty of time and finan- also enduring your part as the mind operations. Continuously, the theme cial management, both of which she of the business to sustain its sig- of familiarity runs in the pillar of the exemplified gloriously. nificance even in the presence of business. Oamil remarked that it is determining factors such as time.” an untold responsibility to inflict the The business’ geographical In the jungle of business industry, positive influence of the business invasion is also a witness of its own to construct a conventional idea is to her family, even within the next magnitude. For Oamil, Samgyup conventional itself, but to execute generations. Kween is not just a big and am- this idea, is viewed as even more bitious business proposition, it is conventional. Samgyup Kween is a CONSCIENTIOUS DNA also a region-covering venture with great thought in and of itself, but the the aim of becoming the biggest power connects to Oamil’s excep- Outside the familiar faces, overt “samgyup” business in Ilocandia. tional execution of foundational business names and top dogs are The current scope? Samgyup Kween steps that made the business surge. bright sources of counselling for the provides products in Batac City, FEBRUARY 2022 7 SIRMATA

busi- selves, your own personal prop- founder’s unfaltering rise as a ness. ositions, and the environment, businesswoman and a student is Among along with the people you want to a dignified symbol of borderless the popular work for. These, among many more significance. It is her valiant effort lavish personalities, Oamil is often unmentioned, are the crucial fac- to multitask that made the financial hinted at by Elon Musk, the looming tors in handling businesses. I am stride to be successful. From the prime mover of notable companies. certain that in order for one to be dreadful task of waking up at dawn, She is invested in comprehending a conquering business individual, and endlessly studying until mid- the words of Tesla's astute leader, you need to acquaint yourself with night, her ascendancy as an owner and among many successful start- these recurring business concepts is an inclined encouragement for up stories of various momentous and theories. Part of me is eager many. organizations. When asked if there to acquire these lessons, either by is an obvious significance of know- reading books, biographies, mem- The sound of having an emerg- ing the stories of such minds, Oamil oirs, testimonies, and the like, or ing business may inflict delightful aptly responded, by learning by gathering first-hand perceptions for the students, but “Yes, running a business is not information myself. Fundamentally, for Oamil, her actions that built her just a simple trick of magic and luck. improving your state as a business achievements should serve as an There should be a solid, foundational owner means improving your mental invitation for every young entre- basis on which you can resonate aptitude.” preneur and businessmen to fall in the teachings from the love with the undertakings of their acclaimed busi- A trait can not only be bonded by chosen path. Oamil messaged, nessmen blood, or by the magnitude of time. “Your age should not dictate what them- For the itching mind, jumbled letters you can achieve. A little progress debossed in multiple sheets of pa- each day adds up to big results. per are dependable paths for inspi- Don’t let anyone hold you down and ration. This is the gist of the bookish stay focused on your own plate pondering of the Samgyup Kween until you’re done. There are a lot of founder herself. opportunities out there, but if no one will open their doors, create one.” BORDERLESS SIGNIFICANCE Nevertheless, there are no age implications when it comes to In a subsequent world of layered authorities, the Samgyup Kween managing a business, or a dream. While FEBRUARY 2022 48 SIRMATA

QaUErEisNing what a student does is the most im- business is always the stronghold of running, maintaining, and improv- portant for her own good, it is also hopeful vision and inventive strate- ing your business will never be a when one steps out of their box that gies. smooth sailing ride. From that, as they can find the greatest opportu- an aspiring owner myself, I kind of nities. Ironically, Samgyup Kween, There is this rapid coalescence built my expectations to the possible a shop founded by the student, is of trend, obsolescence, and incon- inclusion of challenges that may among the rare group of flourishing sistent supplication of goods in the bring detrimental impacts to my commercial names that sponsored world of business, and as already business. Fortunately, these things the 2022 Miss University pageantry. expected, Oamil is ready to brace made me understand that in every Certainly, when talking about grow- these challenges. For instance, the challenge, hides a foundational les- ing influence, Oamil understands the contemporary pull of the Korean son that will improve my business. statements exceptionally well. market emphasised the upswing For that matter, I can say that there demand for “Samgyup” products, are still no crucial challenges that BUSINESS IS ALWAYS IN ALL WAYS but when the time deems the strong I can consider detrimental to me trend irrelevant, Samgyup Kween and to Samgyup Kween. However, Business in nature is an ever-ex- is armed with additional ideas to when an instance of meeting these pansive venture of innovation. retain their impressive growth. This challenges will arise, I am extremely The main idea is the direction, and is attributed to other meat products, prepared to interpret these obsta- the action shall be proved righteous such as smoked goods, and the like. cles for the benefit of growth and by the owner. For Samgyup Kween, Oamil easily shrugs off the idea of development.” the notion of retaining its current being irrelevant by saying, spot is sacrilegious, for the envi- Hardships may come, but for sioned path of this business was “It is natural to anticipate the Samgyup Kween, the obstructions, never to be stagnant. Of course, scenario wherein there could be a challenges, and obstacles all look there is the ever-present possi- lot of conflicting factors in running the same; stepping stones for the bility of confronting obstacles, yet, your business. From the books, business in all ways. for Oamil and her Samgyup Kween, articles, biographies, there is this common factor of business enthu- siasts’ suggestions, that building, FEBRUARY 2022 59 SIRMATA

ILOKANO CULTURE FEBRUARY 2022 “Taga-San Nicolas kami nga agdamdamili, naragsak ti biagmi.” Kailiwko met lang unayen a dengdengnggen daytoy a kanta bayat panangbuya kadagiti agsalsala a napun- oan maris ti langada ken isem dagiti rupada. Saanko pulos malipatan dagitoy a pasamak sakbaytayo a naibalod kadaytoy makapa- patay a situasion. “Naragsak a panagfiesta, ili a San Nicolals!”, bug- kaw dagiti agsasala a kas panangipakita ti kinasinday- awda a taga-San Nicolas. 10 SIRMATA

RANDY GIANAN JR. BANGA! DALIKAN! MALABI! Damili. Maysa a tradision a baka wenno nuang idiay a naipaspasa kadagiti tattao taltalon. Nakakitaka met siguro sipod sakbay a simmangpet iti kastoyen, dakkel a kasla dagiti Español. Daga ti pag- masiteria a dakkel ti abotna. biagan dagiti tattao ditoy ili a Dagitoy a pasamak tawid. Nausar a maysa a paset dagiti saanko pulos mali- iti kultura. Nagbalin nga agtrak- patan. Pateg ken ayat sion kadagiti turista. Ken itan, kadagitoy a banag iti agnanayon a malaglagip a kas mangiwarwaragawag iti paset iti damag a napagsasari- sangalubongan nga adda taan iti naglabas. sibibiag a tawid iti aglaw- Banga. Maysa a produk- lawtayo. to dagiti tattao iti San Nicolas a A kas panangsubli maysa a mangireprepresentar manen iti dati a biag, iti tingnga iti ilida – daydiay sirkulo. Maysa a mangiladawan urayek no kasano nagbalin a maysa a manen dagitoy a pasamak. tawid iti ili ken kasanao inpat- Panagrarambak iti fiesta eg dagiti tattao iti kultura ken ken panagraragsak dagiti tattao tradisionda. Saan pulos a natay. iti kailiwak la unay a kitkitan. Saan pulos a nagsabali. Saan Iso nga inton Disiembre manen, pulos a nabati. awisenka nga agbuya iti Damili, Dalikan. Maususar a tapnon makitam ti kinapintas iti paglutoan tapnon umimas amin kultura ken produktomi. a makan. Prito, lingta, digo, ken “Agbiag, Damili Festival, inapoy, awan sabali nga agi- hey!” masen no aglutoka iti dalikan bayat panagwaras iti asok. Daan a pakasaritaan ngem aginggana ita panawen, napateg pay laeng iti pakausaranna. Malabi. Saan pulos ma- kumpleto ti produkto iti damili no awan ni malabi. Pagurnon- gan danom a pagdigos, pagbug- go, ken mainom dagiti taraken FEBRUARY 2022 11 SIRMATA

EDUCATION “Arrrggghhh! Why is studying so difficult?! I already a planner or organizer. Time management is have other stuff to mind than finding an X! Math very important when studying. Write all the please, she doesn’t want anything to do with you due dates of your activities/requirements, anymore, so stop asking me to find your X!” I chuck- examination dates, and performances. led when I heard what my sister said. She looks so frustrated solving her Math homework, which is due Tenth, create a study schedule. If you have later today. “Who ever said studying was easy, dear multiple tasks to do, for example a research Sophia? Besides, nothing’s difficult with your homeworks if paper or exam, its best suggested to break you have listened carefully to your professor.”, I said. “Then your tasks into smaller chunks rather than what do you suggest I do, goddess of wisdom? Share to thee doing everything in one go. This will help you your thy wisdom, Lady Athena.”, she sarcastically said. I be less pressured and stressed. It will also laughed at how comical she was. But I did give a few tips as help you avoid procrastinating. Eleventh, to how to do well in your studies. take good care of your health. Health is wealth as they say. Your brain needs fuel First and foremost, you need to motivate yourself. If you to keep it going, so you have to eat meals failed today, it doesn't mean you’ll also fail tomorrow. Set that are nutritious and balanced. Breakfast your goals, and use that as your motivation to do well. Stay is the most important meal of the day, so focused, but don’t pressure yourself too much. Second, be sure not to miss it. Twelfth, get enough listen and participate as much as you can during discus- sleep. Try to get at least 8 hours of sleep. sions. Actively participating in class is easier said than done, Don’t pull an all-nighter if your body especially if you have an introverted personality. But there’s can’t handle it. no harm in trying, and stepping out of your shell. Through participating, you are able to showcase your potential, and Lastly, stay fit. If you still have you can also show your professors that you understood time to spare in your schedule, try the discussion. Third, try taking detailed notes during dis- doing some exercises. You don’t cussions. Note taking is a helpful skill to have, as this will necessarily need to go to a gym ensure that you don’t miss even a single detail of your lesson, to do that, but there are types and you can use them as a reviewer for exams. of exercises that you can do at home like zumba, as there are a Fourth, don’t hesitate to ask questions. If you’re having lot of videos on YouTube that you trouble understanding the lesson, its not bad to ask ques- could follow. tions. This allows you to clarify things. Fifth, keep your focus when doing your homework, or when you’re reviewing. When Studying becomes easier reviewing for an exam, or doing your homework, look for a once you know how to manage distraction-free environment. Mute your phone for the time everything, and to avoid putting being, so as to avoid distractions. Sixth, don’t forget to take unnecessary pressure on yourself. at least a 15-minute break for every 45 minutes of studying. You’re doing well, believe me. No Don’t push yourself too much, and let your brain rest for a need to rush, go at your own pace. while. If you study nonstop, it might overload you with too Don’t compare yourself to anyone, much information, which could cause you to get stressed and because you’re one of a kind, limited exhausted. edition. And as Malcolm X had said, There is no better than adver- Seventh, try participating in group studies. Studying alone sity. Every defeat, every is fine, but sometimes, having a study buddy or study group heartbreak, every loss, can benefit you too. By being in a study group, you can ask contains its own somebody from your class about the parts of your lesson seed, its own that you don’t understand. Eighth, be organized. Keep your lesson on how stuff organized. If you have a study area or table in your to improve your room, don’t let it get cluttered. Use one notebook per subject, performance the so your notes won’t get mixed up with your other subjects, next time. and for you to find references faster and easier. Ninth, use FEBRUARY 2022 12 SIRMATA

SOPHIA: THE SEEKER OF ATHENA JESUSA MAE SUMAOANG FEBRUARY 2022 13 SIRMATA

LGBTQIA+ Breaking taboos about se EDMAR DE LOS SANTOS The Philippines is under a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) natural part of our overall well-being,” Bagasol shared. epidemic. In November 2021 alone, the Department of Health They have been championing HIV and acquired immunodeficiency (DOH) recorded 1,268 positive new cases of the said disease and a total of 93,364 reported cases since January 1984 syndrome (AIDS) education in several communities, but their main target of the organization is the youth in Ilocos Norte. Moreover, 28% of the new cases were 15-24 years old, and 52% were 25-34. With this, many youths are living with HIV. Most of the members of their organization are Ilokano youth who are part of LGBTQIA+, women advocates, working from the health Edgar Daniel Bagasol Jr., 24, from Paoay, Ilocos Norte, founder sector, and some are living with HIV. of Advocates Yearning for an Ardent and Transformative (AYAT) HIV advocacy, believes that the root cause of the epidemic is the lack of Though the Ilocos region is one of the areas with the least education. recorded new positive cases in the past years, for Bagasol, it may imply something. Further, according to him, there are only 2 to 3 health facilities in Ilocos Norte, and there is no effective mechanism to promote “Madami sa mga nagpapatest ay hindi sa Ilocos nagpapatest, their services. Also, stigma prevents HIV patients from going into like pumupunta pa sila sa ibang lugar,” he believes. hospitals to access sexual health services. Hence, they will be recorded in the area where they get tested Advocating sexual health even though they are Ilocanos. For the above reasons, Bagasol founded AYAT HIV advocacy Also, since sexual health is still a sensitive discussion and stig- in December 2020 with other advocates from Laoag City, initially matization among HIV patients is prevalent in the province, these planned to spark sexual health awareness in the Ilocos region. challenged their goal to educate the Ilokano youth. “Currently, our organization is at the forefront in promoting But, AYAT has five strategies to address these issues: community sexual health, recognizing the fact that sexual health is actually a outreach through educational activities, digital campaigns, capac- ity-building to train its members, sharing their advocacy to other people, and care and support, which could create a safe space among the patients and youth. FEBRUARY 2022 14 SIRMATA

exual health topics through AYAT Advice among HIV patients Bagasol then encourages people living with HIV to get out of the fear even though there is still no cure for the disease. “The treatment that we currently have, the antiretroviral treatment, is very effective and it has been helping a lot of people living with HIV not only in the Philippines but in the whole world,” he assured. Also, he said that there are people and organizations who are willing to listen to their stories and who can offer them safe space “We would [also] encourage living with HIV to lead HIV and AIDS advocacy, especially in our province na wala pa talagang masyadong groups supporting these communities,” he added. Lastly, Bagasol encourages interest- ed advocates on sexual health and HIV patients to inquire through their AYAT Advocacy social media accounts. They are holding orientation to those who would want to join their advocacy. FEBRUARY 2022 15 SIRMATA

BUSINESS & LIVELIHOOD Stephanie's SWEETEST DREAMS JAMES CARLO R. LUCAS ALTERNATING BETWEEN entrepreneur faces when starting a Stephanie shared that she grew up having entrepreneurship, philanthropy, business endeavor. Little did she know that a poor family and that opportunities are and academics; these have always the problems she has conquered would limited for her. This was her driving force been the core and purpose of this be of great significance in achieving the to work hard and create doors for herself. tenacious woman – to provide for herself, success she enjoys today. It was in baking and cooking that she was able to find an avenue to fulfill her plans to practice generosity and to earn a degree. HOW IT ALL CAME TO BE of building a business. Since Stephanie has an innate passion for culinary and a Stephanie Jay Ulep, is a graduating In every dream we wish to achieve, there’s background in marketing, she started to always a heavy reason why we take enhance her skills by watching YouTube student from the Business Administration tutorials and free learning materials online. actions to conquer it. Department of the College of Business, With courage and passion, she borrowed PHP. 10,000 from her Economics, and Accountancy. At mother as her capital and bought present, she owns the Sweetest Dreams basic baking equipment and Refreshments where she sells customized cakes, different pastries, shawarma, and rice bowls. Before she was able to solidify the foundation of her business, she first struggled with the adversities that an FEBRUARY 2022 16

ingredients. Stephanie initially sold cakes- MORE THAN A BUSINESS Asked about her message to the youth who in-tub just to test the waters and find out want to pursue entrepreneurship, she says whether customers would like her recipe One may say that engaging in business is all that how you react to your problems will or not. Luckily, Stephanie received great for profit. But for Stephanie, the blessings always be the determinant whether or not feedback about her products – that’s when bestowed to her should always flow full- you’ll succeed in your business endeavor. the Sweetest Dreams were born. The circle. As the Sweetest Dreams became As Stephanie goes on her journey for Sweetest Dreams resonates her story as a player in the baking industry of Ilocos her sweetest dreams, she desires to be she dreams for a sweet and prosperous life. Norte, Stephanie decided to create her own someone whom you can draw inspiration Stephanie decided to grow her business foundation to help people coming from the from. She says, “Never stop believing in as most of her clients request her to make under-served sectors. yourself, keep moving forward. If you want customized cakes for various celebrations. Stephanie shared that the Sweetest Dreams to pursue business, be ready with the She saw this chance as a great turning initiated a meals-on-wheels project. “The challenges [and] never give up because point and a huge opportunity to enter into a foundation that we created was about everyone can be successful as long as new and larger market. helping other people, especially those who you're dedicated to the things you do in life” “It wasn’t easy. It was very frustrating are in need. Out of our pocket and with especially if I can’t copy the inspiration the help of other people, we distributed photos that my clients want me to replicate. food and drinks for our frontliners and But I never stopped practicing and stranded kababayans here in Ilocos Norte enhancing my skills; and I think it’s safe to particularly in San Nicolas during the height say that I progressed compared to where of the pandemic last 2021. I started” Stephanie said, chronicling the Furthermore, the Sweetest Dreams’ process of mastering her craft of creating foundation also distributed pocket WiFis customized cakes. to those students who had problems with internet connectivity. This project was a EARNING WHILE LEARNING great help for the student beneficiaries to survive the challenges of online classes. Apart from running her business, Stephanie Stephanie also shared with so much joy that didn’t forget to continue her studies despite her foundation reached the Aeta community the shackles and trammels given by the in the secluded area of Pasuquin, Ilocos arduous online classes. She was taught Norte. She remembered the trails and to still prioritize her responsibilities as valleys they had to get through in order to a student in order for her to earn the bring the food, slippers, clothes, and other marketing degree she always wanted, supplies to the people residing in the said because even though her business is community. The whole experience was thriving, Stephanie believes that it is better very humbling because Stephanie realized to have something to be proud of and how blessed she is, and how much power something that could be considered as a compassion and generosity can hold. safety net. Though it may seem fun studying and AN EMBODIMENT OF A TRUE earning money on the side, Stephanie said INSPIRATION that it takes a lot of patience and sacrifice to juggle both things considering that we In the first year of the business, Sweetest are experiencing a global pandemic. Dreams were able to partner with four “The number one challenge that I faced was different coffee shops in the province managing my time. Usually, I am passing – Bloomfields in Dingras, Palpitate in my requirements barely on time.” Stephanie Laoag City, Bean Brewed in Vintar, and Get shared. Caffeinated in Currimao. Stephanie supplies During the peak season, Stephanie is forced cheesecakes, and various pastries in the to stay up late baking, decorating cakes, said establishments. Moreover, she is also and catching up with the lectures so that active in participating in different food she won't be left behind. fairs organized by different LGUs and the Despite the toxic academic workloads, Provincial Government. altruism still stood up within Stephanie’s For Stephanie, she wishes to partner with class as everyone helped everyone to cope more businesses and expand her product up with all the deadlines. With patience and offerings in order to provide more jobs in hard work, she managed to maintain her her locality as she will need a handful of academic scholarship standing. manpower. FEBRUARY 2022 17 SIRMATA

ILOCANO CULTURE SABUNGANAY! SABUNGANAY! NAGANUSKAY PAYLA UNAY RANDY GIANAN JR. Ritmo iti musiko iti may- daytoy a kanta gapota pananglagip manen iti sa a sala ti agawaweng fiesta! kadaytoy panunot- “Guling Guling koma manen…”, kunak ko. Kabayatanna ti kadaytoy bagik. pananglagipko no “Naragsak, narambak, Guling Gul- ayanno’t nakangngegak ing, Paoay!” kadaytoy a kanta. Saanko pulos malipatan daytoy a pa- “No ibueltam samo ikumintang, nagrarambak – maysa a tradision ken dayta imam a makannawan.”, ti tuloyna kultura iti maysa nga ili iti Ilocos Norte, a mangkurkuriro ditoy utekko a saanko idiay Paoay. pulos mapanunot no ana daytoy. Agtultu- “Sabunganay, sabunganay. Naga- loy laeng nga umawaweng kaniak ti noskay payla unay. Ita ken lawasna unina. umayka kasaren- Ngem, kimmitaak iti kal- kayto la unay.”, endaryo. kuna iti umuna a Aha! Pebrero gay- linyana. amen! Ay wen! Panagrarag- Malagipkon no apay sak ken rambak agululit ti awengna kadagiti pamma- FEBRUARY 2022 18 SIRMATA

titayo a kas Kristiyano – aldaw sakbay a maiselebrar ti Ash Wednesday wenno “Mierkules kurkuros” a makuna. A kas pananglagip dagiti Katoliko kenni Apo Hesus panggep pammati ken talek. Sakbay a simmangbay daytoy didigra nga intayo mapadpadasan nga agdama, napunoan maris, ritmo, ken sala ti aglaw- law iti Paoay. Mangrugi iti daya a paset iti ili, aginggana idiay sango iti madayday- aw a Paoay Church, ragsak ken rag-o ti mariknam kadagiti rupa iti agbuybuya. Daytoy a pananglagip ket saan laeng a sala, musiko, costume, maris, ken ragsak. Daytoy ket napunoan sarita dagiti nagla- bas a panawen panggep kadagiti pasam- ak a laglagipen iti simbaan ken tattao iti ili. Agtultuloyko laeng a malaglagip day- toy a sala. Dagiti kumintang, lateral, ken naduma-duma pay a steps dagiti agsal- sala. Madaydayaw daytoy kadagiti karru- ba nga ili a kas ili iti San Nicolas, Sarrat, Badoc, ciudad iti Batac ken Laoag. Dagitoy dagiti pasamak a kailiwak unay. Agtitipon a tattao, agraragsak nga uubbing, agsasala a babbaket, agririnna- man iti dudol, ken panangipapan iti dapo kadagiti muging iti tattao. Saan laeng a pasamak dagitoy no ketdi istoria nga agtultuloy kadagiti sumar- saruno a henerasion – ita ken agnanayon. “Kasalam la ipmatmat ta napudno a panagayat.”, ti maudi a linyana iti kan- ta sakbayko insardeng nga ikantan, ken sakbayak a permi a mailiw kadaytoy. FEBRUARY 2022 19 SIRMATA

WOMEN EMPOWERMENT I AM BEAUTY GRAZIEL MAE RAMAT FEBRUARY 2022 20 SIRMATA

very human kind appreciate me. No, because one can see. Those white hair possesses me –a you never look nor listen to and wrinkles are wisdom, a gift, for those who your heart. treasure earned for a lifetime. appreciate me. I I am so powerful that even I am in you, but I live beyond am something that those pretty and exquisite the face that matters to the faces cannot handle me. I can eyes only. My true essence Ecannot be replaced change the world, if only you can be reflected in every good –a blessing from God that no let me. If only you’ll let go of thing you do; in every ounce of one can take. I am Beauty. How your insecurities. If only you’ll strength you use in your silent do you define me? see what’s more of me. I am battles… In every tear you've People would define within yourself–living in your cried for the people around me by imagining Aphrodite, heart–waiting to be unveiled. you. the Greek goddess of love and I am beyond your complex- I am in you, in every courage beauty. That perfect body with ions–black, white, or brown. you’ve mustered to go against glowing aura, shining eyes, I am beyond your straight, the wrong. I am in every pow- pointed nose, long lashes, curly, wavy, shaggy, dull, shiny erful heart that has changed plucked eyebrows and lips like hair. I am beyond the shape the world for the better. I am Cupid’s bow –a shallow defini- of your eyes–round, almond, in every atom of love that lives tion, I can say. Don’t be blinded narrow, slant, triangular, within you. by a mere illusion, live in reali- deep-set, and prominent. You That is me. That is beauty – ty, and you will clearly see… don’t need to be dazzling to being strong, confident, and Look in the mirror. Look be me, just let the world see brave; dignified, and having at your unique features you your crooked smile and let a pure heart. I am Beauty – call your flaws. Look at those it be. It doesn’t matter if you something that isn’t only for freckles, those pimples, those are fit, skinny, stout, or lanky. the eyes to see, but something misshapen eyes, overlapping Your hair color doesn't even the heart always feels. eyebrows and that flat nose. matter to me –red is flaming, Do you see me? No, because I blonde is gleaming, brown is don’t just dwell in those faces outstanding, and black makes or even in that stout or thin you shine out from everything. body. Do you appreciate me? Those scars are marks of No, because you don’t see me bravery, flaunt them so every- clearly. No, because you don’t FEBRUARY 2022 21 SIRMATA

LGBTQIA+ ON THE COVER RAISE THE FLAG: Unique and Proud!JESUSA MAE SUMAOANG To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying representing Spirit. to make you something else, is the greatest The first versions of the rainbow flag were proudly accomplishment. - Ralph Waldo Emerson waved on June 25, 1978. The flag was used for the San Francisco It's undeniable that the current society we live Gay Freedom Day parade. Baker and a team of volunteers had the in, is not yet accepting of those that dares flag handmade. However, due to production issues, the pink and to challenge the norms. Despite uniqueness being widely accepted, some still turquoise stripes were removed from the flag. raise a brow to those brave souls that dared to Indigo was then replaced by basic blue. This be unique and extraordinary. This is maybe be- resulted in the contemporary six-striped cause, as Magneto from X-Men once said, Mankind flag with the colors red, orange, yellow, has always feared what it doesn’t understand. green, blue, and violet. At present, the Just like the mutants from the X-Men Franchise, six-striped flag is the most com- the LGBTQIA+ Community had their fair share of mon variant of the rainbow flag, persecution, hate, and judgment from the public along with a red stripe on top, eye, due to the fact that they have a different sexual resembling a natural rainbow. orientation and gender preference from the rest of The various colors became a re- the society. The very first rainbow flag was designed by the artist Gilbert Baker in 1978. Hot pink representing Sex, flection of both the immense diversity and the unity of the Red representing Life, Orange representing Healing, Yellow LGBTQ community. In 1944, the rainbow flag finally became the representing Sunlight, Green representing Nature, Turquoise official symbol of the LGBTQ’s pride. That year also marks the 25th representing Art, Indigo representing Harmony, and Violet anniversary of the Stonewall riots, which is why Baker created a mile-long version of it. Aside from Baker’s and the 1978 Pride Flag, other versions of the pride flag include: FEBRUARY 2022 24 SIRMATA

FEBRUARY 2022 Philadelphia Pride Flag (Philly-based PR Agency, June 08, 2017) - To modify the original six stripes, Philadelphia’s pride flag included Black and Brown, which became the symbol for the people of color. Progress Pride Flag (Daniel Quasar, 2018) - White, Pink, and Light Blue striped chevron design on the Progress Pride Flag reflected the colors of the Transgender Flag, while the Brown and Black stripes represented the marginalized people of color. Black also became a way to honor those who lost to HIV/AIDS, at the same time, it also embodies the stigma surrounding those still living with HIV. Bisexual Flag (Michael Page, 1998) - Pink for the attraction to those of the same gender identity. Blue for attraction to people who identify themselves as a different gender. Purple stripe in the middle for attraction to two genders. Pansexual Pride Flag (2010) - Pink for attraction to people who identify as female. Blue for attraction to those who identify as male. Yellow stripe in the middle for attrac- tion to those who identify as genderqueer, non-binary, agender, androgynous, or anyone who doesn’t identify on the male-female binary. Asexual Flag (2010) - Black for Asexuality. Gray for Gray-asexuality and demisexuality. White for Non-asexual partners and allies. Purple for Community. Labrys Lesbian Pride Flag (1999) - Purple for cisgender women. Black triangle for lesbians. Polyamory Flag (Jim Evans, 1995) - Blue for Openness and Honesty, Red for Love and Passion, and Black for Solidarity. Yellow Pi symbol in the middle, for the infinite number representing the infinite options for partners. In 2017, an alternative version of the flag was created. The pi symbol was replaced with the infinity hearts symbol. Intersex Pride Flag (Morgan Carpenter, 2013) - The flag features a Purple circle on a Yellow background. These two colors are seen as gender-neutral colors. The Circle represents Wholeness and Completeness. Transgender Flag (Monica Helms, 1999) - Light blue and Pink are featured in the flag, due to the reason that these colors were the traditional colors associated with baby boys and girls, respectively. White represents those who are intersex, transitioning, or those who see themselves as having either a neutral, or undefined gender. 25 SIRMATA

LGBTQIA+ Genderfluid Pride Flag (JJ Poole, 2013) - Pink for Femininity, White for Lack of Gender, Purple for a combination of both Masculinity and Femininity, Black for all FEBRUARY 2022 genders anywhere on the spectrum, and Blue for Masculinity. Genderqueer Flag (Marilyn Roxie, 2011) - Lavender represents Androgyny and other queer identities. White represents Agender Identity. Green represents those whose identities are defined outside the binary. Ally Pride Flag (2000) - The A at the center of the flag represents the word ally, which features the six colors of the rainbow pride flag. Black and White stripes in the background represents the heterosexual and/or cisgender people. Leather Pride Flag (Tony DeBlase, 1989) - The flag is composed of nine horizontal stripes alternating between Black and Blue. It also has a White stripe in the mid- dle, and a Red heart in the upper left hand corner. Bear Brotherhood Flag (1995) - Dark Brown, Orange/Rust, Golden Yellow, Tan, White, Gray, and Black stripes represent the fur colors of a bear. Rubber Pride Flag (Peter Tolos/Scott Moats, 1995) - Black for the leather/rubber, and Red for the group’s blood passion for rubber and rubbermen. Yellow for their drive for intense rubber play and fantasies. Polysexual Flag (Samlin, 2012) - Pink for those who identify as Female, and Green for those who identify outside the Traditional Male-Female binary. Aromantic Flag (2014) - Green represents aromanticism, White represents Platon- ic and Aesthetic attraction, Gray represents Gray-aromantic and demiromantic people, and Black represents the Sexuality Spectrum. 26 SIRMATA

RAISE THE FLAG: Unique and Proud! Nonbinary Flag (2014) - Yellow for Binary, White for Many or All Genders, Purple for a mix or somewhere between male/female, and Black for those without gender. Lesbian Pride Flag (2018) - 7 different shades of Pink, Orange, White, and Red for various types of Femininity. Demisexual Pride Flag (Unknown) - Black for Asexuality. Gray for Asexuality, Demisexuality. White for Sexuality. Purple for Community. Two-Spirit Pride Flag (Unknown) - Feather for Masculine/Feminine identities. Circle for Unification of Masculine/Feminine identities. Rainbow for LGBTQ identities. The various pride flags of the LGBTQ Community show how inclusive and accepting they are of various gender identities. It serves as both a symbol and reminder to us that by embracing who you truly are, only then will you feel what genuine freedom feels like. There’s no need for you to hide, because although some cannot accept you yet, you are never alone. The real ones will accept you regardless of your sexuality or gender identity. As Mystique said and I quote, Mutant and Proud!. In this case, Unique and Proud!. FEBRUARY 2022 27 SIRMATA

FOOD Kampay!JESUSAMAESUMAOANG Alonso of Aragon was won’t to say in commendation of age, that ‘age appears to be best in four things - old wood best to burn, old wine to drink, old friends to trust, and old authors to read. - Francis Bacon Wine making, also referred to as vinification, is the process of producing wine, starting from the selection of the fruit to be used, its fermentation into alcohol, and the bottling of the finished liquor. The history of wine-making stretches for over a millennia already. The science of wine making is referred to as oenology. A winemaker may also be referred to as a vintner. The growing of grapes is known asviticulture. There is a wide variety of grapes that can be used for making wine. Wine making can be divided into two general categories: still wine production, which refers to the one without carbonation, and sparkling wine production, which pertains to the one with carbonation. This could either be natural or injected. Red wine, white wine, and rosé, are the other main categories. Although grapes are the primary ingredient used for making wine, it can also be made from other plants. Other similar light alcoholic drinks, which is opposed to beer or spirits, includes mead. Mead is made through fermenting honey, water, and kumis, made from fermented mare’s milk. Ilocos Norte is steadily gaining a reputation in wine making. Cormel Foods, an Ilocano company that is owned by Mr. Anthony Abadilla, was the one that brought Ilocano liquor to the forefront of the winemaking industry through tourism exhibits, and trade. Robinsons Supermarket IN also now carries Cormel Foods’ innovative products. Wine has now become one of the customary pasalubong from Ilocano tourists who visit a relative, and their friends abroad. Aside from the traditional basi, which is a liquor made from fermented sugarcane, Duhat and Bugnay wines are now also being commercially sold. There were also some innovations made, and locals had been using santol and laya as a primary ingredient for making wine. Duhat Wine Locally, duhat is called lomboy. The lomboy is widely known in rural places, especially places that are near the mountains. It somewhat resembles grapes, but duhat has a bigger seed compared to grapes. It is seasonal, as it only bears fruits during summer. Duhat Wine was the product of careful research and product development that was conducted by Cormel Foods, through the support of the Department of Science and Technology, and the Mariano Marcos State University. FEBRUARY 2022 27 SIRMATA

! Laya Bugnay Wine Wine Tapuey Wine Another local wine The people of Adams are fond of exper- Tapuey lies in the majestic mountain- that’s currently making imenting other possible fruity alcoholic ous town of Adams. Tapuey or also re- a buzz in the market, concoctions. One of which is the Bugnay ferred to as rice wine making is an art can be found in Dum- Wine. Bugnay is a tropical fruit and berry that had been mastered by Lola Ingga alneg, Ilocos Norte. Its which contains anti-oxidants, and is good Acupan, who hails from Adams. Lola a wine that was made for the heart. The wines are all proudly Ingga inherited the recipe of tapuey from ginger, or referred natural and handmade by the wine making making from her Kankanaey ances- to as laya in the Ilocano tribes of Adams. tors. It is made from fermentation dialect. Apart from the through adding yeast to a half-cooked local laya as its main Ilocanos are indeed creative and inno- organic mountain diket or balatinaw, a ingredient, it has other vative. They can turn any available local local variety of sticky rice. The exotic components which product into something that can create a tapuey wine is characterized by a includes honey, some buzz in the market. And by having these delicate and sweet taste. yeast, and manage- products showcased in trade fairs and Tapuey is fermented from six months able alcohol content, other events, this could help boost the to two years. The fermentation period in order to boost its popularity of the province’s local products. depends on the desired strength of the marketability. The This also can help provide a more stable wine. It is similar to the sake of Japan, municipality of Dumal- and sustainable income and economy for and maotai of China. The different neg started to offer the the locals. ethnic tribes of Adams such as the laya wine as their OTOP Bago, Imallod, Kankanaey, Yapayao in 2011, after the locals and Ilocano had engaged in wine mak- started to process the ing. Due to the abundance of a wide ginger juice into wine. variety of fruits seen in the town, they considered turning these fruits into 27 SIRMATA fruit wines. FEBRUARY 2022

SCHOOL DRUNK LIFE ON CAFFEINE JESUSA MAE SUMAOANG Isighed as I took my glasses off, and leaned back on my chair. I took my mug and took a sip of my coffee. I looked at all the notes on my study table, and sighed once again. I’ve been reviewing for my upcoming exams since 7 in the evening. I checked the time on my phone, only to find out its already almost midnight. My routine has always been like this whenever my exam week is ongoing. I always have my earphones plugged in, and music blasting on my ears. Of course, a cup of coffee is a must for me. I have to be loaded with caffeine if I want to cover everything for the exams. But of course, the same study technique may not be effective for everyone, so here are some reviewing tips that you might want to try in preparation for your exams. FEBRUARY 2022 28 SIRMATA

Attend all your classes that much suggested, since it to Oxford Learning, for every lesson or not. Do wordplays. and listen carefully during could put unnecessary stress 30 minutes of studying, it’s Using acronyms when reviewing discussions. Be sure to attend on you. And according to the suggested to take 10-15 minutes allows you to memorize things and listen well to your class. Ebbinghaus Forgetting Curve of break. Short study sessions easier in a fun way. Take notes too. The purpose of Principle, we tend to forget 70% are found to be more effective, this is for you to understand the of what we had learned within and it will also aid you to make Assess yourself. Once lesson better, and to effectively 24 hours. So it’s suggested the most of your review session. you know the exam format, recall them once you take your that you go over your notes Look after yourself well. Rather you can try giving yourself a exam. Do a group study session. every now and then. This will than munching junk foods quiz by using the format of the Having someone to compare allow you to have ample time while reviewing or preparing exam, so as to prepare yourself your notes with can help you to remember all concepts for exams, brain foods like better for the real deal. Lastly, understand what you are and other stuff about your peanuts, vegetables, and fresh give yourself the reward you reviewing better. Your partner lesson. Visualize your lesson. fruits is more recommended. deserve. It’s not bad to spoil can also help you keep going Highlight only the keywords Pulling an all-nighter is not that yourself a little after working and motivated. Utilize office and concepts. If you don’t prefer suggested. Give yourself enough hard. Get some snacks, or hours to your advantage. If the traditional written notes, good night rest. Go at your own binge-watch your fave series/ there’s a part of the discussion you can opt to use charts, mind pace. Cramming can lead you to films to help yourself relax for that you really can’t get, it’s best maps, diagrams, or outlines become anxious and be burned a moment. to ask your professor for help. in bullet form. Look for a out. Pace yourself and split your This could help establish a bond tutor. If you’re having difficulty lesson into smaller bits for you Education is the passport with your professor, at the same reviewing alone, you might want to digest it better. to the future, for tomorrow time, it will help you to get a to find a tutor. It can be a fellow belongs to those who prepare better grasp of what you’re student, or a professor. Choose and take the best for it today. They say that taking reviewing. approach. Various types of an exam is like going to a Understand, not just exams require a certain study battlefield. You need to be well- Make flashcards. In order memorize. There are types approach. For multiple choice equipped and well-prepared if to digest the lesson better, and of exams that require you to type of exam, you should focus you want to make it out in one to retain it in your memory, put your understanding of on the important terms and piece. It’s better to be prepared write the gist and keywords of the lesson. Exams, especially definitions. For essay type, than to be caught off guard. the lesson in a flashcard. This in college, mostly test your you should understand the will help you assess what you understanding, not just your concepts and learn how to already remember through memorization skills. By incorporate them. It’s suggested giving yourself a quiz without understanding, this allows you that you ask your professor other’s help. Secure a good to answer situational exam for the type of exam, so you’ll review or study environment. questions better through be aware of what to expect, The best study spot is a library, incorporating the various and the approach to use. if you want to review peacefully. concepts you learned. Attend Learn through teaching others. A cafe is a good spot too, review sessions. If your By explaining and especially if you prefer to have professor offers a pre-test discussing what you coffee while reviewing. Having a review session, it’s suggested learned to others, it good environment for studying that you attend it. This will helps you to know helps you focus better. Shuffle allow you to learn the format whether you’ve the subjects you’re reviewing. of the exam, as well as the key fully understood the Don’t stick to one subject only, topics that may appear in the because this could cause you exam. Keep your focus. Be on to have study fatigue. Switch to track, and avoid all possible another subject after reviewing distractions when you’re for 30 minutes. This will also reviewing. You can try listening help your brain rest from the to instrumental of lofi study previous subject you were playlist to help you focus on reviewing. what you’re reviewing. Do advance study. Give yourself a break Cramming for an exam is not every now and then. According Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today. FEBRUARY 2022 29 SIRMATA

THE PLACE OF THE MOST SCHOOL s I drive on a dark chilly night, I have INNOCENT Prisoners LIFE passed by various road signs showing disparate warnings and safety measures. EDSEL HARRY R. TURDA FEBRUARY 2022 A John Denver classic, Take Me Home, Country Roads, was reimagined as I cross two-way and single roads to home. Not to Aforget, my inner buddy, whom I am singing passionately but silently—with, tries to escape the weekday problems, as we drive home. I actually imagined myself as a bird escaping from the stout bars of a cage, thinking that I really am freed, when I am actually not. I just got out from a small box to live and justify my liberation in a larger cage—a habitat created to test humans and humanity—we often call, life. I’m getting old. I recalled life as something we often experience on jeepneys and buses going home. Trust me when I say, I was five when I was first sent to jail. Like any other young prisoner, my mind was a tabula rasa. I had no complete idea of what in the world is happening, I just followed the instructions and went on with the path, though what I only had in mind back then was Disneyland. The jail was so vast that it could accommodate thousands of prisoners in our town and nearby cities. The doctrine I had as a kid was that only the bad and probably evil people are thrown behind bars. With that indoctrination, I was formally baptized by the sacred judgments of society that I was a legitimate sinful person--at the age of five. I innocently accepted the accusation. Believe me when I say, my parents were the very people who sent me to jail—a place, they believe, would make me a well-grown individual. I was thrown into the first cell and was instructed to be transferred to another cell after a year if and only if I will behave well. We are tortured and forced to perform tasks— count the animals, color the fruits and if we failed, we were punished. No, we did not count more animals nor asked to color more fruits; instead we wrote more of our names—full names, repeatedly, on a whole sheet of paper. The same routine was done every day, in seven years, excluding summers. I spent that long before we were sent to a more complex jail, for another six years. The higher the level, the harder it gets. Our consistency had been tested, the time had been strictly monitored, the judgment was more inhumane and we were measured with prejudice. It was the exact opposite of a fair-and-square system. The crooked methods of the lords, the bosses and the authorities 30 SIRMATA

prevailed. The favorites ruled. Of when everything seems to be new If you happen to pass by road all the group of prisoners, those for me. I, again, have no idea of the signs, listen to classical music, sing with serious criminal cases are decisions that I am about to make. with your inner buddy emotionally, the ones who were freed and the But I guess, it is how we learn that or imagine yourself as a bird—a innocent ones were unfairly judged life is all about taking risks, or free bird—it all has a purpose, why to stay. Indeed, the higher the level, perhaps, life is a risk itself? Anyway, you think, why you feel, and why the harder it is to prove that you I am all for taking risks, and I am you imagine situations in buses or are innocent. It all went out to be all for the last four years in jail. jeepneys. That purpose happens the most biased six year of my life, I am all for the last four years of every day, to take responsibility so far. Having been to ceaseless dealing with irrational prisoners, for the circumstances you cannot unreasonable opinion, insensitive I am all for the last four years of stop from happening. I was not actions and two-faced people, it doing grueling works, I am all for able to forbid myself entering a jail was exasperating to be continuously the last four years of arguing with for seventeen years, but it is my bombarded by a classic cliché the rule of the favorites and I am all responsibility to make the most out question, why is life so unfair? for the last four years of proving my of it, to find the shining gold in the questionable worth, not to you but to dark sand, that will surely benefit, Surprisingly, the six-year my inner buddy. But then again when not only me, but others who are in prejudgment was an unforgettable I give my all, what would be left of need of a person to help them and occurrence—one I consider as both me? guide them in finding their own good and bad because I definitely responsibility and own purpose as learned from it. But despite the I am already used to jail, of well. That is my responsibility, and seemingly endless process of becoming a prisoner. The seventeen my great power. gaining trials and triumphs, I still years of my life being spent in a jail, get disrupted by society’s random is a mere choice. I chose to be the And that is, for me, a well-lived judgment. I felt like every morning strongest possible person that I am life—finding your purpose everyday was a death threat, knowing that when I am at my weakest. I chose and being responsible for it. the moment I open my eyes, I would not to have regrets in every decision have to blindly absorb everyone's that I make. I chose not to believe Now, I am judged with a life unjust opinion against me--again. everyone’s judgment of me. I chose sentence. I will be spending my This happened to me in the highest to hold on to my own principles whole life in jail, I mean school—a level of jail—which houses the most when everything and everyone is place for the most innocent liberated prisoners yet the most pulling me down to their level. I prisoners, I mean, learners. rigorous ones. chose to see life as fair as possible even when life makes me see, with And though it may seem a long I never doubted my bravery. The open eyes, that it is actually not. And path to take, I will drive on that road, life I will have in this highest jail is I chose to take this seventeen years take stops when I need to, go back foreshadowed by the experiences I in jail as a responsibility. Others home when I feel like I have to, until had while I was on the lower ones. may say, with great power comes I am strong enough, brave enough, It is now that I can appreciate, great responsibility, but I firmly say, and worthy enough, to be sentenced more than ever, the places that with great responsibility comes with a LIFE, without judgments. Only served as my training ground for great power. Everyone lives with a then that I can declare-- I AM FREE. thirteen years. Because now, I have responsibility. I was jailed at five entered a peculiar jail, specialized for a purpose. I was judged unfairly in training people to manage and at fifteen for a purpose. We all are guard the cells and its prisoners. responsible for our own purpose— I do not know if I should have the we both find and create. same feeling I had when I was five, FEBRUARY 2022 31 SIRMATA

PERSONALITY One Step at a Time GRAZIEL MAE G. RAMAT What if one day you wake up and the first thing that welcomes you in the morning is the physical pain of the known, and the emotional pain of the unknown? The pain seething deep in your bones… The kind of pain that can crumble your soul… What if one day you wake up and you learn do what you want in life.” you can no longer enjoy the sun, and you can do This is what Sophia G. Ibita, 22 years old, nothing about it but just to reminisce about the feeling… The feeling of the familiar warmth that believes after knowing that she has systemic you hold onto each day of hopelessness. lupus erythematosus, an autoimmune diseases wherein the immune system attacks the body’s What if one day you wake up… and everything… own tissues causing widespread inflammation cannot just be the same as before anymore? When and damage in the affected organs like the the path of the future that you have engineered in skin, blood vessels, joints, brain, lungs, and your mind changes, and now your journey seems kidney. It can be fatal, and there is no cure for endless steps of overcoming the urge to give up. the disease aside from the life-long medications For each step closer you take, your goal takes two and management for the presenting signs and steps backward… symptoms. “Having a disease is not a barrier for you to not Since her specific condition is lupus arthritis, her joints are affected which makes it hard on her shoulders as the first-born child in her for her to get up in the morning, walk, or climb family. She has plans for herself, her parents, stairs especially during flare ups of the disease. and her siblings. Her condition had made her According to her, when her lupus arthritis is at take more detours in life. As a senior engineering “sleep”, her condition is manageable; but when it student now, she had to give up things to adjust is active, Sophia needs assistance every now and to new ones. At first, she sees these detours as then for her to carry out her daily living activities. disadvantages; but as she goes on… she surely has learned things in life. Aside from the now additional burden of her disease, Sophia also carries her responsibilities Being diagnosed with such a disease, the FEBRUARY 2022 32 SIRMATA

Photos from: Maria Aglipay Ralph Albano Kevin Lagunilla Richard Yasay thought of death is one of the things she has What if your pace will keep widening the gap feared the most. The uncertainty of every to your dreams? Will you stop and just envision tomorrow, the ‘what ifs’ in every blink… she has regret, or keep going even if your knees will cleared these in mind and realized that life is tremble until these dreams are within your reach? indeed still beautiful in every miraculous breath she takes. For Sophia G. Ibita, she will still continue her journey, taking one step at a time at her own pace It’s not yet the end. The pain, the tears, each to catch up with her dreams and ambitions in time passing… everything is worth living knowing life. Sophia has made her pillar sturdier as she she has her family and friends… and God. rebuilds her hope. FEBRUARY 2022 33 SIRMATA

ILOCANO s the world we all know has CULTURE come to a halt, we are faced with bundles of unfortunate events, and restrictions, which resulted in separating us from each other. It’s Ano surprise that many of us are in a situation of utter hopelessness and low spirits. The world is currently in a fight against an enemy we never get to see, a virus that has claimed numerous lives. It has set up a challenge to test our ability to cooperate and unite as one. 2021 was undoubtedly one of the most difficult, wearying and miserable years Ilocanos faced. Life, as we know has drastically changed, and the things they used to take for granted, like going out with friends, or touring different destinations, are now restricted for the better. This pandemic also shed light to the inequalities that were not addressed. Due to the problems the pandemic caused, the situation of countless lives became more troublesome. A lot of families are financially struggling, schools are having a hard time providing education for their students, businesses are forced to close, and many end PEDAGOGY:JAYSONSABONG Rising Phoenixes amidst Malady FEBRUARY 2022 34 SIRMATA

up unemployed and homeless. liners, and for their country. This we choose to strive for purpose Food and other basic will encourage them to stay strong, and humanity, only then that we have hope, and stay safe in the New can make a difference. Life is still necessities, especially alcohol Normal. It will not start out easy, but complicated and uneasy for the and face masks, are rapidly taken as time goes by, things will slowly, majority of citizens, infections are out of shelves, leaving others but surely work out for everyone. still on the rise, and the economy empty handed. But regardless of until now is really struggling. everything the province had faced, It is very important, especially But with compassion, empathy, it made Ilocanos realize that in nowadays, to be hand in hand. This is kindness, and trust along with noble order for them to stand and help because not everybody is fortunate friendship, no distance, no obstacle, each other, every municipality must to have such privileges like having no hardships will get in our path for learn to unite and put down their food on the table, and a roof over greatness. differences in order to make a cause their heads. Together, as Ilocanos, and be willing to change. These as Filipinos, and as humans, it is our In the end, these unfortunate hardships took a heavy toll on them, duty to help those who are in dire circumstances will soon be nothing but it also taught their minds to need of help, to spark a glimmer of but a memory and history. A memory value the meaning of friendship and light in the darkness, to heal as one. filled with lessons and experiences, cooperation,and further strengthen Through the advantages of social that’s permanently etched in our it. media, we are able to connect and minds. The best thing we can do communicate despite being far from in this pandemic is to do our part. Recovering from this will each other. We, the Ilocanos, can Together, we ILOCANOS will rise be very tedious, but as Ilocanos make a brighter tomorrow filled again, just like a Phoenix rising from contribute even in their own small with dreams, standing strong, safe the ashes. ways, it gives out a glimmer of and fearless. Because it is when hope to the community, to the front “We, the Ilocanos, can make a brighter tomorrow filled with dreams, standing strong, safe and fearless.” FEBRUARY 2022 35 SIRMATA

TatakWOoMndeAr NPERSONALITYJAYSON SABONG FEBRUARY 2022 “Never think you’re small, because if you believe you are small, you’ll only do small things.” Mapusok. Palaban. Mapagkawanggawa. Mataas ang lipad. Mapusok, hindi dahil sa gusto lang niya, bagkus dahil hangarin niyang mabigyang kulay ang daang libong buhay na kanyang matutulungan. Palaban, hindi dahil sa maraming sumasalungat sa kaniya, bagkus dahil ipinaglalaban niya kung ano ang tunay na karapatan at makabubuti sa mamamayan. Mapagkawanggawa, hindi dahil sa titulong nakapangalan sa kaniya, bagkus dahil nais niyang buhayin ang nakakubling ganda, at pag-asa ng bawat isa. Mataas ang lipad, hindi dahil sa kaya niya lang, bagkus dahil nais niyang palakasin ang paniniwala nila na walang imposible, lahat pwedeng mangarap at lumipad. Ano nga ba ang halaga ng isang ina ng milyong katao, na handang itaya ang buhay alang-alang sa kapakanan ng sangkatauhan? Isang umaga, ginising ako ng masayang mukha ni Haring araw sa Silangan. Kasabay nito ang pag-indak ng mga dahon at bulaklak sa saliw na musika na dala ng hangin.Halos hindi magkamayaw ang lahat sa kasabikan sa biyayang handog ng kalangitan. Sa wakas, isinilang na rin ang bubunut ng malalim na tinik sa aking mga paa. Siya si Gina, ang matalik kong kaibigan. Sa kanyang paglalakbay sa aking kandungan, nabigyan ng magarbong oportunidad ang bawat bagay. Sa mga pagkakataong ako’y nalulunod sa mga abusadong nilalang, lagi syang nandyan para ako’y iahon .Muling inaakay patungo sa buhay na puno ng kulay at pag-asa. Sa panahong ako’y lantang gulay at dinadaan daanan na lamang pagkatapos makuha ang kailangan, nariyan sya upang buhayin ang kuwento na aking sinimulan. Isang responsableng kapatid, kapuso 36 SIRMATA

at kapamilya na didiligan ka ng tunay na diwa ng pagmamahal na walang pakundangan. Ni minsan di ko sya nakitaan ng kalumbayan at pag aalinlangan dahil naniniwala sya na Ang pagbabago ng lahat ay magsisimula sa iyo. Matapos siyang nagsunog ng kilay sa Amerika, nilisan niya ang kaniyang marangyang pamumuhay, at pinasok ang pagiging isang yoga missionary ng Ananda Marga sa Africa, ng mahigit 15 na taon. Pinangangalagaan ang karapatan ng bawat mahihirap na mag-aaral, at mamuhay ng may malalim na pananampalataya sa Itaas. Dito niya binigyang kulay ang kaniyang slogan na Service to humanity is service to God. Matapos niyang gampanan ang di matatawarang responsibilidad sa Africa kasama ang asawa niya, nanumbalik ang aking saya dahil bumalik siya sa mundo na aking kinatitirikan. Uhaw na uhaw na isakatuparan ang layuning matagal nang naibabad sa kaniyang puso’t isipan. Pinamunuan niya ang ABS-CBN Foundation na nagbukas ng samu’t saring serbisyo sa publiko. Sa kaniyang magandang katangiang namumukadkad, at di matibag-tibag, itinayo niya ang mga namumukod tanging proyektong nagtuwid sa akin sa pangarap na matagal ko nang inaasam-asam. Ito ang mga programa tulad ng Sineskwela at Hiraya Manawari. Pinarangalan siya bilang kauna-unahang nagtamo ng UNESCO Kalinga Award. Bukod sa sipag na kanyang taglay, mayroon din siyang malambot na puso. Itinaguyod nya ang programang Bantay Bata 163. Ito ang kauna-unahang rescue hotline sa Asya, para masugpo ang pang-aabuso sa mga musmos, at mga programang pangkalikasan tulad ng Bantay Kalikasan, Save the La Mesa Watershed, Kapit Bisig Para sa Ilog Pasig, at No to Mining in Palawan. Pinangangalagaan at pinagyayaman ang katas ng kalikasan, nagbunga ng kay yayabong ang mga sakripisyong ibinuhos niya rito. itinalaga siya bilang 1997 International Public Relations award of Excellence for the Environment at Outstanding Manilans Award for the Environment noong 2009. Ang katapangang ipinamalas ng aking kaibigan sa ruta ng mapanghamong isyung panlipunan ang nagtulak sa kaniya na pagkalooban ni Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte ng titulong Kalihim ng Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Nakilala ng sambayanan bilang mapagmalasakit, mapagbigay at tagapagtanggol ng aking kinagisnan. Sa patuloy na pamamayagpag ng pakpak ng aking kaibigan, palihim siyang hinila pababa ng mga mapanghusgang mamamamayan na salungat sa ipinatupad niyang Kontra sa iligal na Pagmimina. Dahil dito, nabigo siyang pamunuan ang proyektong ito. Ngunit hindi nya kailangan ng mataas na parangal upang makilala. Hindi nya kailangan ng pera upang paniwalaan sya. Kapag mahal mo ng isang bagay, ililipad ka nito sa togatog ng tagumpay. Ika nga Walang imposible kung gusto at determinado. Iyan ang nasilbing instrumento ni Gina para ipagpatuloy ang hangarin at nagkikislapang pangarap niya sa bayan. Hindi siya nagpatumpik-tumpik pa, at itinatag niya ang Investment in Loving Organizations for Village Economies (ILOVE) Foundation, na naglalayong magtayo ng iba’t ibang mapagkakaitaan sa iba’t ibang komunidad sa bansa. Naalala ko na naman ang mga alaalang iniukit mo sa aking buhay. Alaalang bali-baliktarin mo man ay magiging alaala na lang na kailanma’y hindi malilimutan ng sino man. Alaalang hinabi ng katas ng pagmamahal na magsasaboy ng inspirasyon at lakas sa susunod na henerasyon. Ako si Inang Bayan, lubos na nagpapasalamat sa tinta ng iyong pagmamahal sa kuwento ng aking buhay. Mabuhay ka GINA LOPEZ! FEBRUARY 2022 37 SIRMATA

SCHOOL Kapit LIFE Sa Lubid FEBRUARY 2022 EDSEL HARRY R. TURDA Kabataan ang pag-asa ng bayan, katagang tumatak sa isipan ng bawat mamamayan. Naging kasanayan sa bibig at paningin ng bawat musmos na mukha ng kasalukuyan. Sa pag-asang bayan nga’y magiging maunlad sa kamay ng edukasyong humuhulma sa mukha ng hinaharap. Pag-apak sa unang landas sa paaralan, namulat ang mga mata at isipan sa pag-aakalang ang ABAKADA ay kaalamang para sa mga bata. Ang bilang na isa ay numerong susundan lang ng dalawa, tatlo at mga susunod pa. Ngunit ang masaklap ay ang mga letra na bumubuo sa abakada at ang pagbibilang ay naging kasindak-sindak na kaalaman sa isipan na naging: A – no wala ka na ba talagang natututunan?! Ba – hala ka diyan! Umiyak ka hanggang sa matutunan mong mag-isa! Ka – kalimutan mo nalang ba ang tinuro ko sa iyo kahapon?! Tatlong letra pa lamang ang nailalahad ngunit parang guguho na ang mundo ng kamalayan. Sinundan pa ng pagbibilang ng: Isa, kung hindi ka pa tatayo diyan sa upuan mo, ipapakain ko sa iyo ang chalk na ito! Dalawa, wala ka na ba talagang alam?! 38 SIRMATA

Tatlo, huwag mo na akong 39 na hindi dahas ang solusyon hintayin pang buhatin kita diyan sa upang makamit ang inaasam na kinauupuan mo! pagsibol. Kung nais isakatuparan ang pagiging pag-asa ng mga Nalimutang magbilang kabataan para sa kinabukasan ng apat at ituloy ang mga ng bayan, dapat baguhin ang susunod pang numero sa takot lumang daan patungo sa na baka hindi tama ang magiging wastong landas at wakasan ang kahihinatnan. nakasayanayang pamamaraang naging kultura ng baldadong Pinalipas ang taon sa sistema ng edukasyon. sistemang hindi makatao. Humakbang sa sekondarya Sinubok ang lahat ng tatag sa pag-aakalang malilimot ng ng loob. Hinamon ng paglipas panahon ang mga sugat ng ng panahon. Ngunit parang kahapon. Ngunit hindi pa pala walang bakas ng magandang nagtatapos sa pagbibigkas ng kinabukasan. Nanlumo sa takot. abakada at pagbibilang ng mga Nanghina sa mga salitang numero dahil may hihigit pa. tumatak sa isipan na halos lahat pangungutya at pamamahiya. Mga proyektong oras ang Hinubog hindi ng kaalaman kundi ginugol na natapos lamang sa ng mga sugat ng pinagdaanan. ilang segundong paghuhusga. Kinulong ang sarili sa puot at Mga nagsusulputang pagsusulit hinagpis. Nalimot ang mga na karamihan hindi naman pangarap na dapat sana’y maging naipaintindi ng maayos. Isama na doktor, inhinyero, nars at guro. rin ang sabado at linggong sana’y Napalitan ng kadiliman ang sinag oras ng pahinga at namnamin ng inaasam na makatungtong pa ang pagiging bata ngunit naging sa kolehiyo. Hinigpitan ang lubid, eskwelahan na rin pala ang bahay yumuko ng taimtim, tinapos ang na sana’y kanlungan. naudlot na pagbibilang ng apat, lima, anim, pito, walo, siyam, at Laban na sa tuwina’y sampu. Tuluyan nang nilangaw sinusubok ang kakayahan. Pag- ng panahon ang pagkakataong unlad nga ba o pagkontrol sa mga sana’y maging kaisa ng mga mumunting kaisipan? Pag-usad ng kabataang tinurang pag-asa ng edukasyon ay tila ba bumabagal sa bayan. sistema. Kailangan ng pagbabago Bago natin baguhin ang hindi pang-aabuso. Kailangan edukasyon, baguhin muna natin ng sistemang magpapatibay ang pamamaraan nito. sa kakayahan at huhubog sa kaisipan ng mga kabataan. Ipakita SIRMATA FEBRUARY 2022

MISSION SIRMATA, commits itself to link, bridge the gap and continually host the interaction of the stakeholders of the University - the students, schools administrator and the community towards desirable educational and socio-cultural development objectives, promote and preserve Filipino cultures and traditions, and catalyze community response and action in national and local issues. VISION SIRMATA, the official publication of the college students Mariano Marcos State University is envisioned to be the principal student organization to advocate social consciousness. Uphold and advance the rights of students, and promote their general welfare through fair, balanced, innovative and responsible campus journalism.

SIRMATA RELEVANCE. EXCELLINCE. GROW TH.

RELEVANCE. EXCELLINCE. GROWTH. NO PART OF THIS MAGAZINE MAY BE PRODUCED WITHOUT THE WRITTEN PERMISSION OF THE PUBLICATION. OPINIONS IN SIRMATA’S PAGLAYAG ARE THE WRITERS’ AND NOT NECESSARILY ENDORSED BY THE PUBLICATION. NO RESPONSIBILITY WILL BE ACCEPTED FOR UNSOLICITED MANUSCRIPTS, TRANSPARENCIES, OR OTHER MATERIALS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. PAGLAYAG IS A FEATURE MAGAZINE PUBLISHED BY SIRMATA AND IS PRODUCED FOR MARIANO MARCOS COLLEGE STUDENTS.