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LITERARY: May Mali Ata Sa Mga Kulay
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How is AI impacting science?
https://michaelnotebook.com/mc2023/index.html
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FEATURE: Women and Writing: Novel and Author Recommendations
The Lord of the Rings, The Percy Jackson Series, and The Fault in Our Stars: novels that everyone—avid reader or not—knows. If you noticed, all of these books are written by men. But what about the women, who have also made impressive contributions to today’s literature?
There’s The Hunger Games Series, The Harry Potter Series, and The Twilight Series. But if you dig deeper, there are a million more excellent books by women that deserve just as much recognition and appreciation. In celebration of Women’s Month this March, we compiled a list of a few praiseworthy titles written by women, and a handful of admirable female authors.
Daughter of the Moon Goddess by Sue Lynn Tan book cover. Retrieved from: goodreads.com/book/show/57789637-daughter-of-the-moon-goddess
Daughter of the Moon Goddess by Sue Lynn Tan
Inspired by a Chinese legend, Sue Lynn Tan tells the story of Xingyin, the daughter of the moon goddess, and her journey to save her mother, Chang'e, from the powerful forces that imprisoned her.
With her identity and parentage hidden, Xingyin ends up in the Celestial Kingdom, home of the formidable immortals that exiled her mother to the moon. Despite the danger, she soon grasps the opportunity to learn magic alongside the emperor’s son and sets out on an adventure filled with ruthless enemies and legendary creatures. But when forbidden magic threatens the kingdom, she must face the treacherous Celestial Emperor by making a deal that risks taking away everything she loves or causing chaos upon the whole realm.
Daughter of the Moon Goddess is a delightful mix of fantasy and romance with a whirlwind of a plot that still allows you to immerse yourself in the story and its characters. Sue Lynn Tan’s dreamy writing only adds to the novel’s appeal. Chinese culture and mythology entwined with the intriguing plot and elements ensure that it will be enjoyed by fans—and non-fans—of the fantasy genre.
More here: goodreads.com/book/show/57789637-daughter-of-the-moon-goddess
Love & Gelato by Jenna Evans Welch book cover. Retrieved from: goodreads.com/book/show/25756328-love-gelato
Love & Gelato by Jenna Evans Welch
Italy, with its dazzling sunshine and picturesque landscape, seems like the perfect place to fall in love. But Lina isn’t interested in any of that. The only reason she’s in Italy is because of her mother’s dying wish: that she get to know her father, who was absent her whole life. However, when Lina gets her hands on her mother’s old journal from before she was born, she suddenly finds herself exploring Tuscany and a new world of art, romance, and hidden bakeries. Alongside her charming companion, Ren, Lina follows her mother’s footsteps and discovers a long-buried secret that changes everything she’s known about her family and even herself.
Love & Gelato is heartwarming and filled to the brim with emotion. Aside from teenage romance, Jenna Evans Welch also beautifully weaves history and mystery into the story. It may seem cliché and predictable at times, but the book has an undeniable charm that makes it entertaining for all ages and all occasions.
More here: goodreads.com/book/show/25756328-love-gelato
Behind Closed Doors by B.A. Paris book cover. Retrieved from: goodreads.com/book/show/29437949-behind-closed-doors
Behind Closed Doors by B.A. Paris
Jack and Grace are a picture-perfect couple. They are the object of everyone’s envy; Jack's a successful attorney while Grace is the best wife one could ever ask for. But are they too good to be true? If you look beyond the charm they display and the comfort their dinner parties exude, what would you find? The couple’s relationship may seem ideal and unparalleled, but they’re hiding a lot more behind closed doors.
B.A. Paris’ novel is a page-turner, roller-coaster ride of mystery. It dives into subtle sinisterness, drawing you into the facade of the couple’s beyond-perfect marriage and getting under your skin with the tragedy of it all. In Behind Closed Doors, Grace’s navigation of her horrific situation ensures that readers wouldn’t be able to put this intriguing and tense novel down.
More here: goodreads.com/book/show/29437949-behind-closed-doors
Honorable Mentions: Four Fabulous Female Authors
As a bonus, we also have a few honorable mentions of female authors that made significant contributions to the writing world.
The Bronte Sisters
Writers, teachers, and more—Charlotte, Emily, and Anne Bronte are three sisters who were raised in an English town during the 1800s. The Brontes spent their youth penning poems, diaries, and books. They first wrote and published their works under the aliases Currer, Ellis, and Acton Bell. At the time, female writers were frowned upon which led to their incognito identities. They hid behind gender-neutral pseudonyms in hopes of increasing their chances of getting published. Following a long and tedious road to publication, their works later gained popularity. Some of their most famous creations are Jane Eyre (1847), Wuthering Heights (1848), and Agnes Grey (1847).
F.H. Batacan
Maria Felisa H. Batacan is a Manila-based author fond of writing in the crime and mystery fiction genres. She graduated from the University of the Philippines with degrees in communication and art history. Her debut piece Smaller and Smaller Circles, the first Filipino crime novel, explores the Philippines’ justice system, the influence of religion and the church, and how society sometimes turns a blind eye to sexual abuse victims. This novel won multiple awards, including the National Book Award in 2002 and the Madrigal-Gonzalez Award in 2003.
Bebang Siy
Beverly Siy, commonly known as Bebang Siy, is famous for her novels It’s a Mens World and It’s Raining Mens. Both are collections of essays that narrate Siy’s experience as a woman and tackle issues of girlhood. She also touches upon her identity as a Chinese-Filipino woman and how she struggled with it growing up. In It’s Raining Mens, the sequel to It’s a Mens World, she focuses on her journey with love and her experience as a young mother. Her straightforward and candid discussions of taboo topics surrounding women garnered praise from readers of all genders and ages. Additionally, she has a Master’s degree in Philippine Literature and a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing in Filipino, and won the Filipino Readers’ Choice Award for It’s a Mens World in 2012.
Lualhati Bautista
Lualhati Bautista is the brain behind Dekada ‘70, a popular novel that tells the story of a family living in the Philippines under the Marcos dictatorship. Some of her lesser-known—but no less remarkable—novels include Bata, Bata… Pa’no Ka Ginawa?, Bulaklak sa City Jail, 'GAPÔ, and more. Her works have recurring themes of war and politics. She is known for her realism and portrayal of women’s issues in the Philippines, as well as her female protagonists who possess unwavering strength and bravery amidst difficult situations.
Broadening Horizons
Female authors of all backgrounds and genres have proven that they are just as capable of writing outstanding novels as male authors. In some cases, like Bebang Siy, they also provide valuable insight on women’s experiences and perspectives. Women have been doing this for years, it’s just that they haven’t been given the limelight they deserve. So, in the spirit of Women’s Month, let’s make it a practice of giving the spotlight to women who have created and will continue to create phenomenal literary works. It’s always good to broaden your horizons when it comes to reading, and there’s a whole world of women-written novels to discover. //by Charlize Yamo and Zaeda Wadi
References
[1] bookriot.com/who-were-the-brontes/
[2] bbc.co.uk/history/historic_figures/bronte_sisters.shtml
[3] englishhistory.net/victorian/famous-people/bronte-sisters/
[4] goodreads.com/author/show/673491.F_H_Batacan
[5] moonandcoffee.com/2021/02/17/smaller-and-smaller-circles-by-fh-batacan/
[6] asia.nikkei.com/Life-Arts/Arts/Philippine-women-solve-crime-literature-mystery
[7] booklaban.com/podcast-01/#:~:text=Bebang%20is%20a%20mother%2C%20writer,Intellectual%20Property%20Ambassador%20in%202015
[8] darchwonders.wordpress.com/2015/12/10/its-raining-mens-ni-bebang-siy/
[9] gatheringbooks.org/2012/06/16/its-a-mens-world-by-bebang-siy/
[10] peoplepill.com/people/lualhati-bautista
[11] philippinesgraphic.com.ph/2018/06/02/the-timelessness-of-lualhati-bautista/
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FEATURE: The Struggles of Female Students
“Women are born with pain built-in,” Kristin Scott Thomas said once in the show Fleabag, pertaining to how, from a very young age, women are exposed to pain and hardships that will remain constant until they grow old. These struggles aren’t all biological like period pain and menopause, which are just nature running its course. While menstruation can indeed be an excruciating form of torture, it holds no candle to other sources of pain and struggle that women face every day. Outside factors like how society expects so much yet looks down on a girl’s capabilities, the never-ending objectification of women, and so much more contribute heavily to these struggles they face. But let’s take a look at a chapter in their lives that makes or breaks them; the challenges they encounter and are forced to overcome in their school years.
According to a survey conducted by Plan International, women encounter two main issues when it came to studying: internet connectivity and household chores. While internet problems are more universal, female students are usually expected to do more household work than boys. This is due to the perceived notion of gender roles. As a result, they become an integral part of running the household and are also expected to prioritize it above everything else. This is an incentive for parents to keep their daughters at home, especially those who put a degrading value on female education. Consequently, girls are also at a higher risk of dropping out of school to take the place of their family’s caregivers when they become unavailable due to illness, Covid-19-related work, or death.
This issue only worsened during the height of online classes, when schooling became much more inaccessible to students from the lower class. This is thanks to a new kind of school requirement: gadgets. Although students do not need high-end ones to attend classes and do their assigned tasks and projects, it is hard to find an up-to-par gadget that is worth P10,000 or below. For a lower-class family, it is much more reasonable for the student to stop schooling when that kind of money could be allocated to their basic needs instead. Female students especially are considered to be more valued around the household than in school —one of the main reasons why the Philippine Statistics Authority recorded last 2017 that 68.9% of out-of-school youth are females aged 6-24. But it does not end there, as gender expectations, educational expenses, and the risk of dropping out are just a fraction of what young female students concern themselves with when in school.
Another issue girls face in school is gender-based bullying. The Program for International Student Assessment reported that 65% of Filipino students are bullied, with 70.5% of those students being female. In the hopes of reducing bullying incidents in the country, Republic Act 10627, or the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013, was enacted but unfortunately, incidents only sky-rocketed from 1,309 cases in 2013 to a whopping 11,637 cases in 2019-2020. The sad part about this is that the number wasn’t even final as last February 13, 2023, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, chairperson of the Committee on Basic Education, said that 11,000 reported cases did not make sense as this number is nowhere near 40-60% of the population of students. This expected figure set by “large-scale examinations” should have translated to 10 million - 12 million students, the discrepancy confirming the underreporting of bullying cases. Nonetheless, out of the 71,928 bullying cases tallied from 2013-2020, over 4,250 cases were reported to be gender-based in nature.
Even in the absence of in-person classes, female students still aren’t safe from harm. When the country converted to online learning back in 2020, it was reported that 68% or almost 7 out of 10 female students experienced online harassment according to a survey and interview by Plan International. Additionally, 8 of 10 girls have experienced sexual harassment through social media, with 68% of them falling victing to their own peers.
These instances of bullying, and other forms of discrimination are known to cause and worsen mental health problems. In a 2018 study by Jesus Alfonso D. Datu, it’s stated that discrimination can be linked to negative emotions and inhibited academic achievement. This is worsened by the stigma surrounding mental health; young girls are often described as “OA” and too sensitive, and are frequently asked the tiring question, “meron ka ngayon ‘no?” implying that the trauma these girls face is somehow connected to them being on their period. These comments do not only come from their peers; the majority of it comes from the older generations. The mindset that “trauma makes you stronger and it builds character” is one that has been popularized over the years but in fact, being tormented and invalidated do not make girls stronger, it just leaves them traumatized.
It’s sad to think that female students have to go through all these, just to be educated —a basic human right, and that giving up can feel like the easier option than fighting to learn. In spite of this, their struggle is one that cannot be neglected. After all, their successes not only benefit them individually, but the whole of society. Girls have a lot to offer, if only given the right opportunities and resources that they need to thrive. //by Cilque Casis and Daniella Garces
Sources:
Acosta, A. M. (2020, October 2). COVID-19 and Girls' Education: What We Know So Far and What We Expect. Center for Global Development. Retrieved February 28, 2023, from https://www.cgdev.org/blog/covid-19-and-girls-education-what-we-know-so-far-and-what-we-expect-happen
Ballesteros, K., Almeda, A. (2021, November 20). Safety First: discrimination at Philippine schools and work places — MentalHealthPH. MentalHealthPH. https://mentalhealthph.org/11-20/
Datu, Jesus Alfonso. (2018). Everyday discrimination, negative emotions, and academic achievement in Filipino secondary school students: Cross-sectional and cross-lagged panel investigations. Journal of School Psychology. 68. 10.1016/j.jsp.2018.04.001
De Guzman, P., Tomeo, A., Jaca, G. (2020, October). Plan International GYW Report CC 2017. plan-international.org. Retrieved February 28, 2023, from https://plan-international.org/uploads/sites/25/2022/02/through_her_lens_15oct2020.pdf
de la Fuente, J. K. (n.d.). Bullying and School-Related Gender-Based Violence in the Philippines. https://www.teacherph.com/bullying-school-related-gender-based-violence-philippines/?fbclid=IwAR33LS1-AuXZH4EJsaasIRmAFr_WTNosAVMtPBpflSjEA47wyVy2PBHlAUs
Gendered effects of school closures during the COVID-19 pandemic (By J. E Mueller D. G Nathan). (2020, June 12). thelancet.com. Retrieved February 28, 2023, from https://www.thelancet.com/pdfs/journals/lancet/PIIS0140-6736(20)31377-5.pdf
Harrison, E. (2019, March 19). Fleabag: Fans loved Kristin Scott Thomas' epic speech on womanhood. Radio Times. https://www.radiotimes.com/tv/comedy/women-are-born-with-pain-built-in-kristin-scott-thomass-epic-speech-on-fleabag/
Macasero, R. (2023, February 13). Bullying in schools underreported, says chair of Senate education panel. Rappler. https://www.rappler.com/nation/bullying-schools-underreported-senate-hearing-february-13-2023/
Maderazo, J. J. (2023, February 14). School bullies: Unbearable scourge to Filipino families. Inquirer Opinion. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://opinion.inquirer.net/161057/school-bullies-unbearable-scourge-to-filipino-families
Philippine Statistics Authority. (2017, June 13). Republic of the Philippines. Philippine Statistics Authority | Republic of the Philippines. Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://psa.gov.ph/press-releases/id/119882
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OPINION: SoberANYARE?: Ang Patuloy na Alitan sa West Philippine Sea
Photo credit: Sulat Nadera at Anna Dalet
Hindi na bagong isyu ang kaguluhan sa pagitan ng Pilipinas at Tsina hinggil sa West Philippine Sea (WPS). Maraming taon na ang nakalipas ngunit nabubuhay pa rin ang banta sa kabuhayan at kaligtasan ng ating mga lokal na mangingisda. Kaya kasabay ng mga bagong insidente ng karahasan nitong nakaraang buwan, bakit hindi kinikilala at pinapakinggan ang hinaing ng mga Pilipino? At bakit hindi magawa-gawang ipaglaban ng gobyerno ang ating soberanya?
Kamakailan lang nitong Pebrero 6, ibinalita ang pagtutok ng isang China Coast Guard (CCG) na barko ng military-grade laser sa Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel sa Ayungin Shoal. Kasabay nito ay pinalayas ng iba pang Tsinong barko ang mga mangingisdang Pilipino sa bahagi ng karagatan kung saan sila kadalasang nangingisda. Kinumpirma ang pangyayari sa isang seminar na pinangunahan ng People’s Development Institute kung saan ibinahagi ng grupo ng mangingisda ang kanilang mga saloobin sa naganap na pagpapaalis. Bago ang nasabing insidente, ilang pag-uusap pa ang naganap upang talakayin ang isyu ng hidwaan sa WPS sa pamamagitan ng bilateral talks nang maiwasan ang paggamit ng pwersa’t pagbabanta. Gayunpaman, pagkatapos lamang ng isang buwan, muling nasaksihan ang pangha-harass ng mga naglalakihang barko ng Tsina sa mga mangingisdang Pilipino. Ilang insidente na rin ng pangha-harass ang ginawa noon gaya ng paggamit ng water cannon noong 2014, pagkumpiska sa mga huling isda noong 2018, at pagtaboy sa isang team ng ABS-CBN news noong 2021. Sa napakatagal na panahong nabubuhay ang isyu, bakit imbes na maayos ay tila lumalala lamang ang kalagayan nito?
Sa madaling salita, ito ay dahil sa kawalan ng aksyon at tugon ng pamahalaan sa isyu. Kung susuriin ang nagdaang administrasyong Duterte, minsan na nating narinig ang mga argumentong “wala tayong laban” at “ayaw natin makipag-away sa Tsina dahil sa dulo, tayo rin ang talo” pero hindi ito sapat na mga rason sapagkat makatuwiran ang paglaban sa kanilang pang-aapi. Ayon kay dating Associate Justice Antonio Carpio sa isang ANC interview, ang paggamit ng laser at iba pang armas ng Tsina ay lumalabag sa dati pang nakatakdang batas ng UN Charter na nagbabawal sa paggamit ng pwersa upang mamahala sa maritime issues. Iyon pa lamang ay sapat na rason upang ipaglaban ang karapatan ng bansa sa WPS pero sa matagal na panahong namamahala ang administrasyong Duterte ay mas pinili nilang manahimik at maging pasibo.
Kung babalikan, dalawang taon matapos maupo sa pwesto ay pinirmahan ni dating pangulo Benigno Aquino III ang Administrative Order No. 29 kung saan nakasaad dito na ang kanlurang bahagi at ang nakapaloob sa EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone) ng Pilipinas ay papangalanang West Philippine Sea kasama na dito ang karagatan na nakapalibot sa Kalayaan Group of Island at Bajo de Masinloc o Scarborough Shoal. Ginamit ang pagpapalit ng pangalan ng WPS upang mas lalong maigiit ang ating soberanya at masanay ang mga tao na gamitin ang terminong ito. Subalit, ayon sa isang Filipino Political Scientist na si Rommel Banlaoi, mananatiling mahina at hindi kikilalanin ng ibang bansa ang terminong West Philippine Sea hangga’t walang napapasa na Maritime Law ang Pilipinas. Kaya matapos pirmahan ang Administrative Order ay ilang insidente pa rin ng pang-aapi ang lumipas hanggang sa sumunod na taon ay nagsampa na ng arbitral case ang Pilipinas laban sa Tsina.
Ilang taon din ang itinagal ng mga hearings at trials upang maipresenta ang mga argumento ng dalawang bansa, ngunit kailanman ay hindi dumalo sa mga ito ang Tsina. Iginigiit nilang sakop ng South China Sea ang West Philippine Sea dahil sa itinutulak nilang “nine-dash-line” na ayon sa Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) ay walang legal na basehan. Nilalabag din nito ang kasunduan sa ilalim ng United Nations Convention of the Laws of the Sea (UNCLOS) na ang 200 nautical miles na karagatan mula sa dalampasigan ng isang bansa ang bumubuo sa EEZ nito. Noong 2016, pinarangalan ng International Arbitral Tribunal ang Pilipinas sa arbitration case laban sa Tsina kung saan nangingibabaw ang desisyon ng kaso pabor sa ating bansa.
Kitang-kita na maraming ipinatupad na kasunduan upang suportahan ang karapatan ng Pilipinas sa WPS, pero bakit nahihirapan pa rin ang mga mangingisdang Pilipino na ipagpatuloy ang kanilang kabuhayan? Isang dahilan na madalas gamitin ay ang posibilidad na magsimula ng giyera kung lalaban pabalik ang Pilipinas, ngunit mas makakabuti ba na hayaan na lamang ang Tsina na patuloy na gambalahin ang mga Pilipino kahit na tayo ang nasa tama? Mas makakaiwas ba ang Pilipinas sa giyera kung simula’t sapul ay dahas na ang ipinapakita sa atin ng kabilang panig? Binigyang-diin ni Carpio na kung susundin ng kasalukuyan at susunod pang mga administrasyon ang pamamaraan ng nagdaang administrasyon, mas lalo lang mahihikayat ang Tsina na ipagpatuloy ang pangha-harass dahil nakikita nilang hindi naman aaksyon ang gobyerno upang depensahan ang kanilang mga kababayan.
Isa lamang ang alitan sa West Philippine Sea sa mga malalaking isyu na dapat ay binibigyang pansin at prayoridad ng administrasyon, ngunit ipinipikit nila ang kanilang mga mata sa hinaing ng mga mangingisdang Pilipino. Kung ang mismong mga eksperto ng international law na ang naglalahad na maaari nating ipaglaban ang ating karapatan at soberanya, mas lalo na dapat ang sarili nating gobyerno. Kinakailangan nilang ipaalala sa Tsina na ang mga kasunduang naitatag ay may saysay at nasaksihan ito ng buong mundo. Makatarungan lang na tumindig sila laban sa pang-aapi na natatanggap ng mga Pilipino dahil kung patuloy na hahayaan ng gobyerno ang panggigipit at karahasan na ginagawa ng Tsina, lalong malalagay sa peligro ang mga karapatan at kabuhayan ng bawat mamamayan. //nina Jessiemae Cadiz, Kiel Beldia, at Kairyn Cruz
Mga Sanggunian:
Administrative Order No. 29, s. 2012 | GOVPH. (2012, September 5). Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines. https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/2012/09/05/administrative-order-no-29-s-2012/
Bolledo, J. (2021, August 13). At least 3 Chinese vessels spotted in West Ph sea in August – US expert. Rappler. https://www.rappler.com/nation/chinese-vessels-spotted-west-philippine-sea-august-2021/
DS Law. (n.d.). Philippines vs. China: What you need to know about the territory dispute. https://www.duranschulze.com/philippines-vs-china-what-you-need-to-know-about-the-territory-dispute/#:~:text=The%20conflict%20between%20China%20and,have%20claimed%20as%20their%20own
Fernandez, D. (2023, February 14). Ph protests Chinese Coast Guard's harassment using laser. Inquirer.net. https://globalnation.inquirer.net/210958/ph-protests-chinese-coast-guards-harassment-using-laser
Jackson, A., & France-Presse, A. (2022, October 5). In photos: Filipinos fishing on the frontline of the west philippine sea. GMA News Online. Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/847077/filipinos-fishing-on-the-frontline-of-the-west-philippine-sea/story/
Lee-Brago, P. (2022, September 5). 'Philippines should proceed with West Philippine Sea exploration without China'. Philstar.com. https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2022/09/05/2207482/philippines-should-proceed-west-philippine-sea-exploration-without-china
Mangosing, F., & Santos, T. G. (2023, February 20). DFA chief: China harassment a 'daily situation' for ph. Inquirer.net. https://globalnation.inquirer.net/211222/dfa-chief-china-harassment-a-daily-situation-for-ph
Rappler. (2019, June 12). Timeline: Skirmishes, standoffs, harassment in West Philippine Sea. https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/iq/232906-timeline-skirmishes-standoffs-harassment-west-philippine-sea/
Sanchez, R. (2016, July 12). Timeline: The Philippines-China maritime dispute. Rappler. https://www.rappler.com/world/139392-timeline-west-philippine-sea-dispute/
Santos, M. (2016, July 13). Key points of arbitral tribunal’s verdict on PH-China dispute | Global News. INQUIRER.net. https://globalnation.inquirer.net/140947/key-points-arbitral-tribunal-decision-verdict-award-philippines-china-maritime-dispute-unclos-arbitration-spratly-islands-scarborough
Tomacruz, S. (2021, July 15). Duterte and the West Philippine Sea: A strategy of failed compromises. RAPPLER. Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/in-depth/duterte-west-philippine-sea-strategy-failed-comprises/
Tomacruz, S. (2023, March 1). After Duterte, Marcos plays catch up in fight for West Philippine Sea. RAPPLER. From https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/in-depth/ferdinand-marcos-jr-plays-catch-up-fight-west-philippine-sea-after-duterte-administration/
Rappler. (2012, September 12). ‘West PH Sea’ now official: so what? https://www.rappler.com/nation/12277-west-ph-sea-now-official-so-what
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LITERARY: PAPILIO POLYXENES
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Fluttering about
Drifting through the wind, awaiting the time of bloom.
03.09.23. 6pm.
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Breaking free
Spread your wings, my little butterfly. 03.09.23. 6pm.
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FEATURE: Kaisa sa Musika: The Return of UP Fair
UP Fair 2023 Kaisa ka sa Musika pubmat. Retrieved from https://www.facebook.com/UPFair/
After being stagnant for many years, the most anticipated week among UP students is back. The UP Fair consists of five days. Each one has its own unique flavor as it's usually organized by different groups that invite a wide variety of artists. Here, numerous booths and rides can be found, but hidden under the guise of an entertainment event for dancing the night away with friends are advocacies that the UP student body at large fights for. Despite the promise of exciting activities and attractions, the real goal of these five days is to provide a platform for numerous people to have their voice, and what they fight for, heard.
Join us as we take a look at what each day brought to the table and what their noble endeavors were.
REV
Lively crowd gathered during REV 2023. Retrieved from: https://www.facebook.com/REVpresents/photos/pcb.3472620732952801/3472620672952807
The first day of the event was UP Fair REV; its advocacy centered on the issue of injustice and lack of accountability from our government. They called out the state for its crimes against human rights—specifically during the regime of Duterte and Marcos Sr., as the victims were never given any justice while the real perpetrators of said crimes still run free with a clean slate under their names.
UPIS alumnus Kobe Rivera from batch 2019 Ignite, is part of an organization that was in partnership with the REV committee. This is a common occurrence as numerous partnerships are made among organizations that have a passion for a common cause at a big event such as this. According to him, the advocacies of each day are important, and based on his experience during REV, he noted that they were successful in their goal of providing necessary information to the attendees.
Though he also noted a recurring happening that can be improved—he noticed that the organizers sometimes fail to get the people’s attention. "When the advocacy starts, a lot of people use it as a time to buy food and drinks rather than to listen," he said, the numbers of those who join and actively listen to the advocacy are relatively low as compared to the hype that people give to the performing bands. But even so, he cannot deny that the appeal of the fair did not lessen because of that.
He is actually an avid enjoyer of the fair as he has been going for years. He noticed that the sets were shorter and were bitin for him since it is what he came for, but he still enjoyed it regardless, as he managed to catch up with his high school friends as they went through all the booths and rides.
KALYE TUNES
A picture of the advocacy segment during Kalye Tunes showing their stand on jeepney phaseout. Retrieved from: https://twitter.com/kalyetunes/status/1631613876134625282/photo/1
The next day was the day to light up the spirit of local hip hop—Kalye Tunes. On brand with their name, they dedicated their advocacies to both our jeepney drivers and the people who live in slums. Kalye Tunes advocated for something that is a hot topic—one that has been brought to the fore by the recent strike of transport groups: jeepney phaseout. Their other advocacy is fighting against big corporations and how their actions cause many families to be forced out of their homes and live in unsuitable areas. They featured the case of Sitio San Roque, whose people have been trying to reclaim their land after having been evicted from it.
The combination of music that matched the taste of the mass and advocacy on an issue that almost everyone is affected by, made this day one of the most sought-after. Kiel Beldia, a student from 12-Kamalayan, surely made it his goal to be a part of such a big event, as he was part of the volunteer corps of Kalye Tunes. Though it was not his first time attending UP Fair, it was still a new experience as volunteering for it revealed hidden sides of organizing the event, which just made him more passionate about its cause. But being a volunteer doesn’t mean all work for him; he still got to enjoy the event and even had time to roam around and have a go at the rides such as the Viking, and of course, he also got the chance to jam with an artist that he was excited to hear from: Al James.
DIMENSIONS
Mayonnaise during Dimensions. Retrieved from: https://twitter.com/mayonnaisemusic/status/1626241089488429058/photo/1
The third day of the fair is probably the one that made the most uproar. Dimensions was the talk of the town as they were early to release parts of their lineup, thus, hyping up the students to buy tickets early. Such a simple strategic move, yet, was very effective. The selling for this day was the most brutal out of all the days, but one that was still worth all the efforts for its attendees. Another smart move of its organizers was their choice of advocacy—somewhat a natural continuation of what came the day before: the country’s transportation crisis. Who wouldn't want to go to an event whose advocacy affects the everyday life of every single Filipino?
Another reason for this day to be the crowd's favorite is that the whole setlist was the best—Annika Porto of grade 11-HT Sy, Sr. clearly thinks so. Among the bands, she was really looking forward to Mayonnaise, Lola Amour, and The Itchyworms. She even mentioned that she has always been on the lookout to experience attending a performance of Mayonnaise. She was put out when she couldn't attend UP Fair 2020 to see them, and so she was ecstatic to tell us how she enjoyed and sang her heart out to their song Jopay.
The name Dimensions might not ring a bell among usual fair-goers, as they were more familiar with the name Roots for the usual Thursday fair, but to those that do not know, both actually have the same organizer which is the UP Economics Society. This rebranding might have been for the better. Annika loved the energy that Dimensions had and she even noted that the planning for crowd space was much more organized as it was divided into two sections, unlike in the past where the audience was compacted all together in the middle.
POLARIS
MRLD celebrated her birthday with the Polaris crowd. Retrieved from https://twitter.com/UP_Fair/status/1626648650620493825?s=20
The fourth day of the fair, Polaris, held a variety of advocacies that are more catered toward the student body of the university. As students of the University of the Philippines, we continuously strive and fight for academic freedom, opposing campus militarization and any form of oppression. Having programs for equality and inclusivity, along with gender-responsiveness and cultural sensitivity—these are what Polaris fights for as well.
But, it is worth taking note that the organizers for this day, the UP Upsilon Sigma Phi, have sparked some disputes and have been known for making statements that contradict the very advocacy of the event, proving all the more the need to fight for equality and inclusivity. Though filled with controversies, that is not a reason to discount the efforts of numerous people and its attendees to fight for the day's advocacy.
Pauline Vargas, a current grade 11 student in the Business and Entrepreneurship track, is one of many that got to hear these advocacies live. According to her, some of the reasons that made her choose to attend the fair day was due to the fact that she resonated with what they were fighting for, and also because of the convenience of the schedule. Not new to attending the fair, she stated that the recent experience differed from others by how they effectively communicated their advocacies to the crowd; the fairs of the previous years were not that successful in voicing out what they were fighting for.
As the students and goers of the fair celebrated and enjoyed the rest of the night, bands and performers like December Avenue, I Belong to the Zoo, Orange & Lemons, MRLD, and more serenaded the crowd that willingly held up their phone flashlights, creating an illusion of a starry night from the artists’ point of view.
The event’s advocacies did not only last for the night, as the organizers extended help towards the students that went beyond the fair day's closing hours. Pauline’s highlight for the night was when Polaris announced that they covered the dormitory fees of all UPD students for one semester.
COSMOS
Ben&Ben performing at Cosmos. Retrieved from: https://twitter.com/CosmosOPMFest/status/1630575556432633856/photo/3
Cosmos, the day where the UP Sunken Garden grounds became a safe space for all—regardless of gender, sexuality, and expression—was held on the fifth and last day of the fair, ending it with a bang. Handled by the UP Junior Marketing Association, the fair day’s advocacies revolve around the promotion of trans rights, the SOGIE equality bill, reproductive health for all, and inclined with National Women’s Month this March, Cosmos also advocates for feminism.
Gian Manalo, a UPIS Batch ‘22 Doble Dos alumnus, expressed how Cosmos became his go-to UP Fair day, and attending every year turned into his own personal tradition. Compared to his previous Cosmos experiences, this year's crowd was especially bigger because of the demand, due to the fact that it has been a while since the fair was last held. According to him, getting tickets felt almost like a lottery by how difficult it was to purchase them. He also observed that there were more non-UP students compared to UP students, resulting in a much different hype, but nonetheless, it was good that more people were exposed to the advocacies that day had.
What made Gian’s night incredibly special was the performance that BINI, an eight-member P-pop girl group, offered to the fairgoers. More widely-known bands were part of the night’s lineup, such as Moonstar88, Autotelic, The Itchyworms, Ben&Ben, and more. And, although his favorite ride wasn’t included in the most recent UP Fair, Gian said he still very much enjoyed the Viking.
With the UP Fair officially back once again, it certainly has brought a sense of hope and something most students can look forward to, whether they may be from inside or outside the campus. For anyone that is interested and is now planning on attending the next UP Fairs, our beloved schoolmates left a few words of advice to make your next fairs worthwhile.
“Go with someone you hold close and dear to your heart or your very sabog friends! Witnessing music live is way more enjoyable and wholesome with company you like because it brings out all the feels, emotions, hype, you name it!” —Gian Manalo, Doble Dos.
"Bring some mats if your feet/legs are weak and if you are going to stand for the whole time." —Pauline Vargas, Grade 11.
"Prepare for when it rains because we were fortunate that rain was not present for the whole week. But if rain was to come you should have plastic bags or ziplocks ready for your belongings." —Kiel Beldia, Grade 12.
"Always be alert and be mindful of your things. As much as possible, don't bring a backpack and use sling bags instead to prevent yourself from losing things. Explore the booths and rides inside the fairgrounds and the most important thing you need to remember is to enjoy the performances! Don't be shy to sing the songs you know out loud!" —Annika Porto, Grade 11.
"If you have the means to do so, it is best to go to the UP Fair at least twice. One or more days for the bands. Find a day where you really like the lineup/advocacy. And another day where you feel that the lineup is relatively mediocre, so that you could enjoy talking to your friends, playing games, riding the rides, and the bands will be just for the background." —Kobe Rivera, Ignite.
One cannot deny that the UP Fair is an event that has constantly proved its effectiveness in highlighting voices that need to be heard and has been a great conduit to connect people through music and advocacies to fight for. Whether you may be an Isko, an Iska, or just someone who happens to enjoy walking along the refreshing UP Diliman campus, you are sure to have a sense of awareness about the current societal issues, and how you can raise your voice to stand for what’s right. //by Andrea Almeda and Daphne De Ramos
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FEATURE: New Requirement: Mandatory F2F
New semester, new you, and new mode of learning too! But this time around, it’s more of a mix of past set-ups with some adjustments. For the second semester of AY ‘22-’23, the UPIS administration is implementing mandatory face-to-face classes. If before, students had limited face-to-face classes with the option of being a roomie or a zoomie, all are now required to attend in-person classes. For students in kindergarten to grade 2, face-to-face classes are twice a week, while for grades 3-12, they are held thrice a week. This major shift is a period of adjustment that has brought forth many new thoughts, feelings, and realizations to the members of our community. Students and teachers alike from different levels have much to share about their experience.
While high school roomies from the first semester have had some time to dip their toes in once a week face-to-face classes, elementary students have a bit more adjusting to do. Even those who were roomies last semester only attended in-person classes twice a month. Going from that schedule to in-person classes thrice a week is definitely much less gradual of a transition. That being said, it sure hasn’t dampened the spirits of Reen Lopez, a student from 6-Perlas. “I feel joyful knowing that we have face-to-face three times a week. I do think that this could improve the social development of the youth,” she said in an interview.
It is indeed joyful as, according to her, the current set-up has much improved her enthusiasm for learning. “I [also] understood the lectures and discussions more properly since I do not encounter the same problems as before (internet or broken device).” More than that, it’s the little things you can’t get with remote learning that Reen enjoys the most, such as simple chats with her friends, the food from the canteen, and even the laughs and shouts of children outside their classroom, which she said she missed a lot.
Of course, given that it’s been practically three years of mostly remote learning for her, face-to-face classes come with its own challenges. “All of my classmates have matured and changed a lot during those years. This was the problem I experienced on the first day of face-to-face for the 2nd semester.” She said, sharing that her unfamiliarity with her classmates’ interests led to very brief conversations and interactions with them.
But overall, she feels that the good outweighs the bad. When asked whether there is anything she would suggest or change with the current set-up, she answered, “None, none at all. I'm content[ed] with the set-up right now, and I don't need anything more.”
As for first semester high school zoomies Justice Aguinaldo of 9-Barium and an anonymous Grade 12 student under the name, Yoshi, the live classroom experience provides much to delight in and each have expressed a comparable level of surprise at their adjustment to mandatory F2F. “I was nervous as to what my experience would be. Now that we're almost a month in, my perception [of] it has completely changed and [I am] liking [the] system,” said Yoshi.
It indeed appears that certain things require only the passage of time to get settled into, for while Justice also faced challenges in adopting a new routine for the schedule, they are now, according to her, more manageable. “Even if the travel to and from school can be exhausting, it is worth it,” she said. Despite similar struggles, Yoshi has also found a number of the changes, along with reinstatements, in the new normal to be worth rejoicing.
Save for twelfth graders with their interest courses, students no longer need to transfer to different rooms; and as they can also opt to bring only digital copies of their course packs instead of traditional printed ones, baggage and commute-liability has considerably decreased for some. In the same way, Justice commends how classes have been conducted, particularly, in the wealth of health and safety protocols that are being implemented.
A temperature-scanning alcohol dispenser situated by the UPIS gate to greet, check, and disinfect those intending to leave school premises. Photo credit: Allana dela Cruz
According to her, “I feel assured and safe somehow that UPIS has an organized system, which follows the health guidelines needed to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus.” For students such as Justice and Yoshi who’ve only ever attended classes on Zoom for nearly three years, truly a sense of comfort must be derived, not just from a well-ordered state of things, but also in the various familiarities that come with the physical setting.
In Yoshi’s case, adapting to the new system was easy because of how it still feels so much as it had during pre-pandemic. Justice, too, has been able to meet with old friends as well as make new ones with greater ease in the current set-up—some of the former advantages that were unique to taking classes in person. Most salient for her though, is the opportunity to communicate with classmates and teachers in a manner that is both productive and engaging—to learn and connect at a more personal level.
Gone now for the two, are the warbled online discussions occasioned by a weak internet connection during classes held on-site; and while remaining partly online, it is no longer so fraught with the stress of contacting one’s peers or the helplessness of being locked at home. The day devoted to classes online now functions, as Yoshi has said, “as a refresh for the body and mind.”
On the other hand, Mishi Guiang of 6-Perlas takes a more impartial stand. “I don’t think I favor one mode over the other,” she said. She also remarked that they do not differ much overall in her experience. Despite this, the unique upsides to mandatory F2F cannot be denied, for she’s professed to enjoy a pleasantly higher degree of attentiveness and interactivity, as well as a greater sense of responsibility, “Procrastination has been less during the current set-up.”
Lessons for her are easier to understand compared to before, with live discussions coming across with greater clarity and tasks given in person posing less difficulty. A concern however, similarly includes commuting to school thrice a week; Mishi feels for those with whom it is a shared issue, “the harder part is traveling if you live far or if there is traffic.” The one day allotted for remote learning has likewise allowed for troubles with signal and connectivity to remain.
Though by no means trivial issues, she has stated that she wouldn’t change a thing with the current situation and merely acknowledged that she understands why some have a significantly preferred method, “Online is good for people with gadgets and good internet and like online in general. Face-to-face is good for people that like meeting the teachers and being able to answer things physically instead of google classroom.”
The latter part of Mishi’s sentiments definitely goes both ways for Sir Michael “Myk” Dela Cerna, as this set-up provides the opportunity to slowly return to traditional teaching and learning methods. Finally given the chance to consistently see his students face-to-face, he prioritizes getting their input on the topic being discussed. This is especially important considering the subject that he teaches. “Bilang ang aking kursong tinuturo ay Sining ng Komunikasyon kaya dapat higit na mahasa ang mga kasanayan sa paggamit ng wika (isa kasing hamon ang mayaman at aktibong talakayan sa dating moda na purong online),” he said. To make the most out of the current set-up, he makes some adjustments to his teaching methods by having more groupworks and discussions.
Sir Michael “Myk” dela Cerna conducts Pagsasalin class to the twelfth grade students. Photo credit: Allana dela Cruz
It does seem that class discussions are going well for Sir Myk, as he observes a higher morale in his students now that they are regularly interacting with their peers. In his words, “Hindi na kailangan “pagalawin ang baso” upang madama na kasama mo na ang mga mag-aaral.” Now, he’s able to actually feel the class’ interest and reactions.
Regular face-to-face classes is certainly Sir Myk’s preferred set-up when it comes to teaching. Aside from the more frequent and regular interactions with students, he’s now more able to focus on one group of students as opposed to during blended learning, wherein he had to simultaneously cater to both roomies and zoomies. Additionally, given how limited face-to-face classes were last semester, teachers had only a few select activities that they were able to carry out then. But even now, when there’s more in-person classes and opportunities, he says that the challenge lies in maintaining the momentum of learning.
If, for the greater heft of nearly three academic years, both teachers and students had utilized various online platforms—such as Google classroom, Padlet, and Quizizz—committing to mostly live activities and past face-to-face methods might not suffice. In Justice’s words, keeping them in commission, “can ensure that the students are supplied with the materials they can use to have a deeper understanding of the lessons.”
Though regularly conducting face-to-face has been a long-time coming, or as Yoshi had put it, “rather foreseen than sudden,” it’s important to keep in mind that years have passed since being subject to it—that more students still need an adjustment period and that teachers should be given time to strike a balance between the best of past teaching approaches. Many of us are dreaming of the way things were, but what warrants our attention at the moment, is getting the most out of this current mode of learning. //by Allana dela Cruz and Alyana Fabella
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OPINION: Sagot o Salot: National Citizen’s Service Training
Photo credit: Sulat Nadera
NCST o National Citizen’s Service Training. Ika-16 ng Disyembre nang nakaraang taon, naipasa na sa ikatlong pagbasa ang kontrobersyal na bill na naglalayong palitan ang kasalukuyang National Service Training Program o NSTP. Ngunit, ano nga ba ang NCST, at bakit ito tila minamadaling maisabatas ng kamara? Karapat-dapat bang ipalit ito sa NSTP? Ano ang maaaring maging papel nito sa pag-unlad ng mga kabataan, at pag-unlad ba ang maidudulot nito?
Ano ba ang pagkakaiba ng NSTP at NCST? Isinasaad sa Section 13 at 14 ng bill na ang mga graduate ng naturang programa ay ikokonsidera nang nagtapos ng mandatory military training sa ilalim ng Republic Act 7077, o ang Citizen Armed Forces of the Philippines Reservist Act, at ituturing nang reservist ng Armed Forces of the Philippines o AFP. Ayon din sa Section 2 ng House Bill 6687, layunin ng NCST na i-incorporate ang kabataan sa Citizen’s Armed Forces. Kung susuriing maigi, mapapansin natin na ang NCST ay hindi nalalayo sa Reserve Officers Training Corps o ROTC dahil sa militaristiko nitong kalikasan, ngunit ito ay mas “watered down” kumpara sa ROTC. Kaiba ang mga ito sa NSTP na mas nakatuon sa community development at humanitarian work. Nililinang ng NSTP ang makabayang pag-iisip sa pamamagitan ng literacy training at civic welfare training, na mas mainam para sa kasalukuyang sitwasyon ng bansa kung saan higit na kinakailangan ang pagpapaunlad ng lipunan at pag-empower sa mga mamamayan. Higit na kinakailangan din ang literacy training dahil sa laganap na disinformation sa panahon ngayon.
Nakababagabag ang bill na ito dahil nanganganib din ang kapakanang pangkalusugan ng kabataan. Nitong buwan ng Pebrero, naging maingay ang pahayag ni Department of National Defense (DND) Officer-in Charge Carlito Galvez Jr. sa isang hearing sa senado. Ayon sa kanya, makatutulong ang ROTC at NCST upang pagtibayin ang resilience at strength of character ng isang indibidwal. Mapapalabas daw nito ang survival instinct ng isang indibidwal nang sa gayon ay tumataas ang kanyang tolerance sa frustration at kalauna’y gagaling ang kanyang mental problems. Kaiba ito sa NSTP kung saan maisasapuso ng indibidwal ang experience training. Ano ang basehan ni Galvez sa mga pahayag na ito? Wala siyang ibinigay na mga kongkretong ebidensya at suporta mula sa mga eksperto ng medisina at sikolohiya. Sa katunayan, taliwas ito sa mga sinasabi ng mga eksperto. Ayon sa mental health advocate na si Dr. Gia Sison, ang pilit na pag-iimplementa ng ROTC o NCST ay mas nakapipinsala sa mental health ng isang indibidwal. Dagdag pa ni Dr. Dinah Nadera, isang psychiatrist, ang pagpapataas sa frustration tolerance ay hindi palaging nakabubuti para sa isang indibidwal. Sinabi naman ni Dr. Joan Mae Rifareal ng Philippine Psychiatric Association na hindi nangangahulugang "magagamot" ng mga programang ito ang mga problema sa mental health, ngunit maaari itong magsilbing "isang outlet para sa mga frustrations na posibleng mayroon ang mga mag-aaral sa iba't ibang aspeto ng buhay na kinabibilangan nila." Ito ang rason kung bakit mas mainam na bigyan natin ng kakayahang pumili ang mga mag-aaral kung lalahok ba sila sa programang ito o hindi.
Maaalala na noong 2001, pinaslang ang isang college student mula sa University of Santo Tomas (UST) na si Mark Welson Chua dahil sa pagbulgar niya sa mga nangyayaring korapsyon at panunuhol sa loob ng ROTC. Siya ay parte ng intelligence monitoring team ng kanilang unit, at natuklasan niya ang malawakang korapsyon sa mga nakakataas sa ROTC, na kaniyang isiniwalat sa “The Varsitarian”, ang opisyal na student publication ng UST. Noong sumunod na taon, ginawa nang opsiyonal ang ROTC sa pagsasabatas ng Republic Act 9163 at inilunsad ang NSTP. Mula sa nangyari kay Chua, kitang-kita ang posibilidad na maging mapang-abuso at marahas ang programa sa mga estudyanteng sasailalim dito.
Maraming pang isyu ang kinahaharap ngayon ng sektor ng edukasyon na mas nangangailangan ng agarang atensyon at solusyon mula sa pamahalaan. Una, hindi sapat ang benepisyong ibinibigay sa mga guro, maging ang kanilang natatanggap na sweldo, sa kabila ng sobra-sobrang ibinibigay sa kanilang trabaho. Pangalawa, lumalala rin ang nangyayaring pagrerebisa sa kasaysayan sa mga modyul at teksbuk ng mga mag-aaral. Isang halimbawa nito ay ang pagpapalit-tawag sa panahon ng Martial Law bilang “New Society” o “Bagong Lipunan,” ang pangalan ng programang ginamit bilang propaganda noong rehimeng Marcos, sa mga teksbuk na inilimbag ng Departamento ng Edukasyon (DepEd). Ito ay isang halimbawa ng historical denialism sa mga teksbuk at modyul ng mga mag-aaral. Pangatlo, marami pang mga paaralan sa bansa ang nangangailangan ng pagkukumpuni, pag-maintain, at muling pagpapatayo. Ayon sa pinakahuling datos ng DepEd, 104,536 lamang mula sa 327,851 na paaralan sa bansa ang nasa magandang kondisyon. Ito ang mas kailangan ng sistemang pang-edukasyon, hindi ang mandatory ROTC o NCST.
Tumungo naman tayo sa maaaring pangmatagalang resulta ng programang ito. Kung babalikan natin ang ating kasaysayan, ginamit ng mga Amerikano ang edukasyon upang lusawin ang makabayang pag-iisip pagkatapos ng rebolusyon laban sa mga Espanyol. Sa kasamaang palad, tayo ay hindi pa tuluyang gumagaling mula sa sakit na ito sa ating lipunan, at isa itong ebidensya kung gaano kadali makontrol ang sambayanan gamit ito. Ang sistemang pang-edukasyon ay isa nga namang napakamakapangyarihang medyum upang manipulahin ang mga kinabukasan at kamalayan ng bayan. Mahihinuha na tila nais nitong pairalin ang pekeng “nasyonalismo” kung saan nagiging sunud-sunuran lamang ang mga mamamayan sa pamahalaan gamit ang mga militaristikong indoktrinasyon. Ito ay maaari ring maging tulay para sa paglilinang ng mapang-abusong sistema.
Kung nasyonalismo nga ang hangarin ng pamahalaan, tuturuan nila ang kabataan na mag-isip nang kritikal at malaya, sa halip na ipilit ang isang programang may potensyal na maging mapang-abuso, dahil hindi sinasanto ng tunay na nasyonalismo ang katiwalian. Ang tunay na nasyonalismo ay ang pagpapaunlad ng lipunan nang pangmatagalan. Hindi kami papayag sa hinaharap kung saan ang kabataan ay hamak na mga piyesa sa mapang-aping makinarya ng pamahalaan. //nina Apollo Tumaliuan at Kirsten Chantal Dela Cruz
References:
CNN Philippines. (2023, February 7). Galvez clarifies ‘ROTC as cure for mental health’ statement. CNN Philippines. https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2023/2/7/galvez-rotc-cure-for-mental-health-clarification.html
Romualdez, F.M., et al (2022). AN ACT INSTITUTING A NATIONAL CITIZENS SERVICE TRAINING PROGRAM IN ALL PUBLIC AND PRIVATE TERTIARY EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS, REPEALING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9163, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE “NATIONAL SERVICE TRAINING PROGRAM ACT”, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFORE. https://hrep-website.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/legisdocs/third_19/HBT6687.pdf
House of Representatives. (2022, December 16). House approves NCSTP on 3rd reading. GOVPH. https://www.congress.gov.ph/press/details.php?pressid=12347#:~:text=National%20Citizens%20Service%20Training%20Program,Public%20and%20Private%20Tertiary%20Education
Magsambol, B. (2023, February 6). Doctors debunk Galvez claim that ROTC ‘cures’ students’ mental health issues. Rappler. https://www.rappler.com/nation/doctors-debunk-galvez-bato-claim-rotc-cure-mental-health/
Baron, G. (2021, March 8). Remembering Mark Welson Chua. Manila Bulletin. https://mb.com.ph/2021/03/18/remembering-mark-welson-chua/
The Philippine Star. (2022, December 26). EDITORIAL - Remembering Mark Welson Chua. https://www.philstar.com/opinion/2022/12/26/2233360/editorial-remembering-mark-welson-chua
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OPINION: TED(ucation) TALK: Educational Crisis of the Philippines
Photo credit: Anna Dalet
After being halted due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, the University of the Philippines College Admission Test (UPCAT) will return for the academic year 2024-2025. With this news in the limelight, discourse between those who prefer the UP College Admission (UPCA) and UPCAT arise centering on how one is more beneficial than the other, may it be on a personal level or a nationwide point of view. However, the real discussion gets drowned out in the discourse between two sides: Why is quality education not readily available to everyone? It is a question that one might simply answer with something like: “The government is trying their best to give each student the education they deserve,” when in reality, nothing has changed despite the government's attempts. From the lack of support, budget, or even equitable access—these are all evident in the educational system of the Philippines. The country has suffered, and continues to suffer from this age-old educational crisis, UP being no stranger to the struggle.
Persistence of inequitable access to higher education
To start, we must discuss the accessibility of tertiary education or higher education in general. According to data from a discussion paper by the Philippine Institute for Developmental Studies (PIDS), titled “Philippine Education: Situationer, Challenges, and Ways Forward”, in 2019, 49% of the richest decile managed to attend higher education whilst only 17% of the poorest could do so. This shows how the poor are underrepresented in state universities; even free tuition in higher education has yet to prove whether it helps increase the participation of students from poorer households. UP, a state university, has a student population that largely consists of students coming from the middle to upper middle class. From a journal article entitled “Quality, inequality and recent education reform” by Edita A. Tan, admission in UP varies across income brackets, the lowest at 3.5% among applicants from the poorest families and 16% for students coming from millionaire families. This contradicts the purpose of a state university to cater to those in the lower classes due to the free tuition it offers. This proves that tuition is not the only problem admittees face, but access too. The paper also discusses how free tuition and tertiary education subsidies or the pre-implementation analysis expected this problem as well: the more academically-prepared students who mainly come from richer families may bump off the less-prepared students from poorer households due to competition and limited slots.
Lack of budget and support
Quality education is not one-dimensional, hence, it cannot be solved easily without proper budgeting and support from the government—which the Philippines' educational branch suffers from the lack thereof. This deficiency manifests in the attitudes of prominent legislators like Senator Alan Peter Cayetano towards the premier state university, questioning the management of its budget. Such a challenge seems senseless however, when considering that despite taking up 23.41% of the total allocation for all state universities and colleges, UP suffered from a Php22.295 billion budget cut. The loss of funds not only affects the conducting of entrance exams but also the students, faculty and staff, the infrastructure plans of UP, and most importantly, the quality of education they get to provide.
To make matters worse, the government's allocation of the national budget suggests that quality education is not their priority. In 2022, the Department of National Defense (DND) had a 29.5% budget increase for its machinery and equipment outlay. On the other hand, the Department of Education’s infrastructure received a 40.7% budget cut, showing how the previous administration prioritized the military over education. As a whole, the education sector only got 16% of the total Php5.024 trillion proposed national budget.
Dated all the way back in the midst of the country suffering from the pandemic, various economic teams have warned the country that this pandemic will leave a generational effect on the state of its education. This only calls for greater priority throughout the allocation of the national budget which the government certainly overlooks. Due to resources being limited and the budget continuously getting slashed, UP, just like many other universities, could only accommodate so much without proper funding and support from the government.
Admissions: the UPCAT and UPCA
During the first time UPCA was used as a form of admission in the academic year 2021-2022, over 100,000 applicants hoped to get in but only 11,000 were admitted. Numerous students expressed their dismay in social media after the results were released, especially students from the Philippine Science High School or Pisay. In previous years, 90% of their students were admitted into UP but a Pisay Student-Organized Intercampus UPCA Inquiry showed a 50% drop in their system-wide UP acceptance rate. UP Office of Admissions director Francisco delos Reyes shared that since UP is a national university, they had to look at the different strata of our society in creating the University Predicted Grade for the UPCA. “As an excellence-equity admission system, 70% pagalingan, pero may 30% tayo for economic and geographic equity,” he said. Meanwhile, in AY 2019-2020, a total of almost 12,000 applicants qualified for admission, representing 13% of the 90,000 students who took the exam. Since 2017, UP has been receiving around 100,000 student-applicants, with this the university only has a 10% to 15% acceptance rate.
As a state university with free quality education, it is understandable why UP reaches around 100,000 applicants each year. Education is a must, and those who are unfated to get into a university would face even more challenges looking for job opportunities due to entry-level positions also requiring a diploma from a 4-year course. This further proves the point of the Philippines facing a huge educational crisis and how UP, being the face of the country's state university system, should be able to open its doors of opportunity for all students with dreams.
During the implementation of the UPCA, students expressed their concerns, stating that those who struggled in high school had expectations of UPCAT being their chance of redemption. Hence, the traditional exam is still seen as “the gold standard and a leveler for all applicants”, even by admissions director delos Reyes. However, former Student Regent Renee Co called to light how the examination reflected the flaws in the country’s educational system—pointing out that UPCAT favors those from science high schools and private institutions who have a wider range of available resources to further their learning. She also noted that although the modification of the admission system was a good move, the applicants' differences in circumstances and socio-economic factors still play a huge role in determining acceptance into the national university. “Students from families with lower economic opportunities do not receive the same quality of education, and their circumstances affect their grades,” said Co. She points out how only considering one part of the equation while leaving the other unattended, blows the inequalities of the educational system wide open, putting those who are already in a less favorable situation in one much worse.
Admissions of other colleges
The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) is another state university with free tuition and requires applicants to take the PUP College Entrance Test. Data from 2012-2014 show that out of approximately 60,000 applicants every year, the percentage of admitted students is around 25%. The Ateneo de Manila University, a private higher education institution that provides quality education, on the other hand, has a tuition fee of over Php100,000 and a 10% to 20% acceptance rate. The acceptance rate of these three colleges are similar, with only PUP having a higher percentage due to its smaller count of applicants. As these universities have low acceptance rates like UP, this proves the lack of access to quality education, which could be made better in state universities since, ideally, they should be boasting significantly better rates than private institutions whose slots are inherently limited by business factors. Not to mention, state universities are backed by the government, whose funds come from nationwide tax revenue.
With the educational crisis that the Philippines is facing right now, being able to reach tertiary level education shouldn’t be an egregious experience. It also shouldn't be a system that benefits those with the capacity and resources because everyone has the right to experience free quality education. For this to be achieved we must call on the national government to rechannel funds and to prioritize education. It must heed the calls of the people that have long suffered from this educational crisis. Equitable access to education cannot be obtained without realization and action from those in power. For the children to become the said hope of the country, they must first receive the education they deserve. //by Yeshua Galicia and Grace Gaerlan
References:
Castillo, C. A. (2022, August 31). UP faces a P22.295B budget cut for FY 2023. University of the Philippines. https://up.edu.ph/up-faces-a-p22-295b-budget-cut-for-fy-2023/
Figueroa, B., Dacanay, P., Abella, M., Villasorda, E., Inocencio, J., & Sigales, J. (2021, September 16). As COVID-19 hits UP students and faculty, learning now 'survival of the fittest' – Tinig ng Plaridel. Tinig ng Plaridel. https://www.tinigngplaridel.net/2021/covid-19-hits-up/
Ibon Foundation. The neglect of PH education: Where do we go from here? (2021, October 5). https://www.ibon.org/the-neglect-of-ph-education-where-do-we-go-from-here/
Inquirer.net. (2022, September 5). Cayetano to UP suspending UPCAT anew: What are you doing with your budget? Inquirer.net. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1658862/cayetano-to-up-suspending-upcat- anew-what-are-you-doing-with-your-budget
Magsambol, B. (2021, July 17). UP admissions director: Other factors considered, not just grades. Rappler. https://www.rappler.com/nation/university-philippines-admissions-director-other-factors-considered-not-just-grades-results-2021/
Manila Bulletin. (2022, December 27). PIDS presses swift action on PH education crisis. Manila Bulletin. https://mb.com.ph/2022/12/27/pids-presses-swift-action-on-ph-education-crisis/
Mateo, J. (2019, April 2). 11821 pass University of the Philippines College Admission Test. Philippine Star. https://www.philstar.com/nation/2019/04/02/1906506/11821-pass-university-philippines-college-admission-test
Orbeta Jr., A. C., & Paqueo, V. B. (2022, August 23). Philippine Education: Situationer, Challenges, and Ways Forward. PIDS. https://pidswebs.pids.gov.ph/CDN/document/pidsdps2223.pdf
PIDS - Philippine Institute for Development Studies. (2022, October 28). Policy issue at a glance: The Philippines' education crisis: How bad is it and what can we do to solve it? PIDS - Philippine Institute for Development Studies. https://www.pids.gov.ph/details/resource/infographics-policy-issue/policy-issue- at-a-glance-the-philippines-education-crisis-how-bad-is-it-and-what-can-we-do-to-s
Satinitigan, S. (2021, April 7). Freshman Applicants Raise Equity and Inclusivity Concerns Over Modified Admissions System in UP. Philippine Collegian. https://phkule.org/article/23/freshman-applicants-raise-equity-and- inclusivity-concerns-over-modified-admissions-system-in-up
Tan, E. (2017). Quality, inequity and recent education reform. The Philippine Review of Economics, 54(2), 110-137.
UPCA 2022 Announcement. (2022, March 9). University of the Philippines—Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/ upsystem/photos/a.240579535964948/5473749639314552/?type=3&source=48&paipv=0&eav=AfaSm5iTriM__Fmp1oEpSyT9ndtG6JoMn262i8hLpWabmCVv4ch9cRg9PUFT7OE1iUU&_rdc=2&_rdr
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3 Years Later: UPCAT returns for AY 2024-2025
UPCAT IS BACK. The Office of Admissions of the University of The Philippines announced the return of the UP College Admissions Test after its 3 year postponement.|| photo from upd.edu.ph
The University of the Philippines College Admission Test (UPCAT) application period officially opened on March 8, 2023.This comes after three years of not conducting the examinations. Students that are expected to graduate from senior high school in the Academic Year 2023-2024 will be qualified for the following UPCAT.
In an advisory released by the UP Office of Admissions on Facebook , applicants must submit their Form 1 until April 15, 2023 for them to qualify and take the exam in June. They must then revisit the portal in September to fill out their grades in Form 2B and submit the hard copy of their Form 137. “All applications are to be done online and applicants need to encode their grades for Grades 8, 9, 10, and 11 in the UPCAT online portal. Though applicants may still be in Grade 11 when they apply, exam takers will encode their grades online only in September 2023 when Grade 11 grades are final and complete.”
The university also announced that they would need hard copies of the aspirant’s official transcripts from their schools for verification.
UPCAT 2021 was supposed to be conducted in the 3rd quarter of 2020 but due to COVID-19 restrictions, the University councils decided that an online UPCAT was impractical due to various factors such as the length of the exam and the need for a uniform and fast internet connection.
The entrance test will be administered face-to-face on June 3–4, 2023, at close to 100 testing locations in 16 regions nationwide. //by Dante Aquino and Chelsea Almajar
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New-look UP Jr. Fighting Maroons Cap Off Return to UAAP
With the 56-71 loss against University of the East last March 1, the UP Junior Fighting Maroons conclude their run in the UAAP 85 Boys’ Basketball Tournament with a record of 1-13. Although putting in a lot of effort before each game and maintaining their vigor throughout, they were unable to end the season on a high note. This caused a series of unfortunate events, for this also marks the final game for captain Jonas Napalang and his five senior teammates, as they will be moving on from the high school scene later this year.
The first game of UPIS after the 3-year tournament drought showed lots of promise, as they bested UE 101-94 last January 15 in an overtime thriller. UPIS star big man Kobe Demisana led the charge, tallying 17 points, 14 boards, 4 blocks and 2 steals in his first game in maroon. Meanwhile, Basty Jacob, his frontcourt duo, scored 19 points and 9 rebounds. Valdeavilla, Napalang, and Melicor also had 18, 17, and 16, respectively.
Kobe Demisana attacks the basket for a lay-up. Via: UAAP Media Team
The succeeding games however, ground the UPJBT’s momentum to a halt as they suffered loss after loss. Their games against UST, Adamson, DLSZ, FEU, and NU all resulted in blowouts. Yet these defeats did not cause them to lose heart because of the overflowing support that they received from the community. Rather, they served as inspiration for the team to fight even harder.
In an interview with Jonas Napalang, he stated that part of his duty as the team captain is to get to know his teammates as he will be leading them throughout the season. A team captain also needs to be professional by being consistent, staying patient, and encouraging his team when they are losing. “We motivate each other by encouraging each other. When the team is down we seniors try not to blame one another, but instead try to uplift each others’ confidence.”
Now a senior, Jonas touched on his experiences compared to his rookie year. “Para sa akin, mas mataas yung expectations ngayon na kami ang seniors,” he said. “Isa ako sa dapat maglead sa team so dapat mature at maging kuya ako para sa mga mas bata sa amin. Nung rookie, kailangan lang mag-attend sa training para maipakitang deserve maging member ng team.” When asked about the additional responsibilities attached to being team captain, he emphasized the importance of being a good role model. “Dapat ako yung nakakaintindi sa lahat and dapat palaging masipag ako sa training, kasi once na makita nilang tamad-tamaran ako, tatamarin din sila.”
Finally, he left a message for those who aspire to join the UPJBT, as well as a message for the team’s supporters. “Ang advice ko lang is focus kayo sa goals niyo, and magstay na positive palagi,” he said. “Para naman sa supporters ng team, sobrang thankful ko talaga sa lahat ng sumusuporta kasi isa silang dahilan kung bakit lumalaban pa rin kami kahit natatalo.” He also shared his mindset on his career moving forward. “For me, hindi pa ako tapos and mayroon pang college, so lalo pa akong magsisipag and pagsisikapan kong mag-improve.”
UPJBT Team Photo. Via: UPJBT Instagram Page
Jonas is joined by Kobe Demisana, Marcus Raymundo, Clark Cordero, Karl Villaverde, and Floyd Florentino as the seniors who will be graduating high school in summer. UPJBT supporters however, still do have a bright spot to hold on to, as the seniors will be leaving behind a young, established team led by the 1-2 punch of Rocco Melicor and Sebastien Jacob, accompanied by the versatile scoring ability of Daryl Valdeavilla. //by Reiñell Fajardo and Rocel Bautista
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UPIS shifts to mandatory and increased frequency of face-to-face classes
MORE FACE-TO-FACE CLASSES. The 2nd floor lobby of the 7-12 building is filled with students, as the building re-opens and classes have been mandatory, with an increase in frequency of days.|| Photo courtesy of Andre Panopio.
The University of the Philippines Integrated School (UPIS) shifts to mandatory and increased frequency of face-to-face classes for the second semester of Academic Year 2022-2023, as health protocols have eased throughout the Philippines.
According to Prof. Dian Caluag, the Assistant Principal for Academic Programs, the increased frequency of onsite classes to two and three days a week is mainly because of the country's improving situation. The loosening of Covid-19 restrictions successfully permitted the students to access onsite and academic assistance from the teachers. “Nakita natin na nag-iimprove na yung [We saw the improvement of the] pandemic situation, meaning more people have been vaccinated [with boosters]. UP has also advised its units to increase the number of face-to-face classes.”
In addition, Prof. Caluag added that the teachers, students, and parents requested an increase in in-person contact and on-site classes. Remote learning led to academic loss which resulted in fewer classroom activities and lack of direct interactions between students, she said. Without these interactions, the students faced challenges in interpersonal relationships with parents, teachers, and peers.
She also explained that there is an idea that we will not get to the routines that we used to do before the pandemic, such as doing flag ceremonies every week, having club meetings, and celebrating UPIS week. To this, she responded, “It’s more of moving forward, we’re learning from what we experienced in the past three years, and the idea is that we’re not going back to how things were before. We’re banking on what we learned and moving forward.”
On the other hand, Aileen Dimaculangan, the school’s nurse, declared that the same process of filling out health declaration forms would continue on a weekly basis rather than daily. The school also had a revision of quarantine and isolation protocols with the help of the University Health Services (UHS). Reminding students to fill up the health declaration forms honestly, Nurse Aileen reiterates the appropriate observation of conforming to minimum health protocols, such as wearing a face mask, being knowledgeable about proper hygiene practices, and eating the right diet. Nurse Aileen also added, “I think kung ano na-start na rin natin (following minimum health protocols and keeping yourself clean) kailangan lang natin i-continue ito, pati na rin sa personal [hygiene] natin kasi magiging malaking tulong para safe ang lahat.” [I think that we should continue what we have started (following minimum health protocols and keeping yourself clean), as well as maintaining our personal [hygiene], as it is a big help in keeping everyone safe.]
Reactions of students
UPIS students also had reactions to the shift made by the school. Cilque Casis, a Grade 12 student, says she feels great about having more days of classes. “Face-to-face classes allow me to focus on the subject matter more, compared to online classes where I’m mostly just staring at the screen. I [also] like the fact that you can ask teachers directly in person, and if you have other questions after class, you can just visit them in the faculty room.” Zerah Ballarta, a grade 11 student, was also delighted about the shift, as she is able to step foot into UPIS again after months of isolation, and finally seeing friends she used to bond with.
The students also expressed the challenges that they encountered along with the benefits. According to Zerah, "Nahirapan ako bumalik sa dating gawi ko kasi hindi na ako sanay gumising nang maaga at mag-ayos for school." [“It was hard for me to go back to my old routine because I’m not used to waking up early and getting ready for school anymore.”] Meanwhile, Cilque was concerned about the amount of groupworks and coordination between classes. “My concern is just with the amount of groupworks that we have, sometimes it is hard to coordinate with other classes, especially with other interest courses,” she stated.
When asked about possible additions to the current health protocols, Cilque proposed that in the health declaration form, there should be an option where you could specify if your symptoms were allergy-related. “We have a lot of people who have allergies, but if they answered the form truthfully, they might not be allowed to school even though it’s already been dealt with or they were taking allergy medication.” As for Zerah, she suggested that more alcohol stations should be placed in school, along with a station that provides face masks in case the students forget to bring extras.
Other changes that can be seen in the rules and regulations included the canteen being fully operational once again and adopting the schedule used in online classes, which starts at 8:00 am and ends at 2:30 pm. Temperature checks can also be seen in the school’s entrances, as well as alcohol dispensers for each classroom and restroom.
UPIS hopes that these new protocols will help students learn better at school while ensuring everyone’s safety. “The characteristic of the transition is that it’s gradual, and that transition will lead us to the new normal,” Prof. Caluag stated. //by Monique Gervacio and Andre Panopio
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