“Bellowing the truth to the ends of the earth”

Vol. LIV, No. 1 Apr - Oct 2018 /aquinastbp

The Official Student Publication of Aquinas School, San Juan City DOMNET Youth Group blazes trail in Aquinas

By Gian Marquez

Blaze the trail!

That was the mantra of the whole Dominican youth as Trailblaze: Luzon, the first event of the Dominican Network (DOMNET) Youth Group this year took place at the grounds of the Aquinian community on Sep 29, Saturday.

DOMNET National Coordinator and ‘15 alumnus Nathan Agustin said of the program, “Trailblaze aims to ignite the spirit of leadership and strengthen the Dominican Youth.”

“It was made with the zeal to promote meaningful encounters among students from Dominican schools to strengthen the network among them,” Agustin added.

Cont. on page 4 ‘Blaze the trail’. Students from all over Luzon gather in Aquinas for the first DOMNET Trailblaze (Photo courtesy of Mr. Reginald Calina).

Guidance Center talks mental health with students

By Jason Sigales mental health, saying that it is Abad, Shun Adanza, and “more important than physical Sean Rodriguez first The Guidance and health because wellness starts presented the results of a Testing Center held a seminar in our mind”. survey of Aquinians on on 02 Oct, Tue, aiming to raise stress conducted last August. awareness on mental health “Acknowledging mental issues among Aquinians. health issues may help On a scale of 0 to 5 – emotional wellbeing,” Mrs. 0 being “no stress” and 5 Guidance counselor Luna-Bautista added. being “extreme stress”, the… Mrs. Jungie Luna-Bautista emphasized the importance of Peer facilitators Andre Cont. on page 2

Colorful Performances. Grade 10 - St. Ignatius don colorful The delegation of the costumes as they win second place in second division BigSayAwit school in the high school (Photo taken by Justin Rubio) department emerged as the over-all champion with its several first place wins. Buwan ng Wika festivities highlight In the list include role of Filipino in nat’l development Joseph Quinto - third in Filipino copyreading, Joshua Lucas - third in Filipino editorial writing, Enrico By Gerald Baliton energetic dance performance, Estrella III - third in Filipino and eleventh-grader Philip feature writing, Marcus Allas Month-long festivities Sumido, whole-heartedly - third in Filipino news culminated in colorful delivering a poem. performances from students Young Journalists. Aquinians make another successful stint at the writing, Sean Rodriguez - on 6 Sep, Thursday. Pagbigkas ng Tula was Division Schools Press Conference (Photo taken by Xavier Ala) second in Filipino science writing, Jethro Lagmay - a contest open to students in second in Filipino sports This year’s Junior and Senior Kinder. writing, Arkin Tan - second celebration, themed Aquinians stand out at San in English science writing, “Filipino: Wika ng Sedrick Gañolon and Austin Castaneda - second in Saliksik”, focused on Ethan Griffin Arceo won as promoting the use of the champions in Junior and Juan press con anew English sports writing, John Paul Javier - second in national language in research Senior Kinder respectively. English feature writing, and development. by Railey Nuñez Ramir Gumangan - first in Madulang Pagku- Opening the kuwento was a contest open to annual Division Schools Press Filipino editorial cartooning, celebration on 6 Aug, Mon, students in the first to third… Aquinians once again Conference held on 20 Aug, Juan Gabrielle Martin - first were members of the proved their prowess in Mon, at San Juan Elementary in Filipino photojournalism, Filipino Club, who gave an Cont. on page 4 campus journalism in the School.

News News Editorial Science Book-giving project Successful Alumni Minor Inconveniences The Science of Ghosting | p. 2 | p. 3 | p. 5 | p. 7 2 News Apr - Oct 2018

Guidance Center and anxiety.

talks... “Being a fellow From page 1 Aquinian motivated me [to talk] about mental health to …survey showed Aquinians, on students… I wanted to seize an average, scored 2.0. opportunity wherein I can pass Rodriguez commented, on an appropriate mindset to “Not one student is perfectly them at an early stage,” Javier fine, which means that the said. average student is either lightly Mrs. Luna-Bautista then or moderately stressed, though ended the program by formally [this] is still alarming since a introducing the Peer student shouldn't be under Facilitators: ninth-grader Enrico much pressure to be able to Estrella III, tenth-grader Jerome focus on their studies.” Demetria and Dan Paolo Organizers invited Lorenzo, and eleventh-graders psychologist Mr. Antony Andre Abad, Shun Adanza, Villarina, who earned John Paul Javier, and Sean bachelor’s and master’s degrees Rodriguez, describing them as at Doctors and “people who strictly uphold the is presently working as a value of confidentiality”. human resource manager at Mrs. Luna-Bautista BSM Crew Service Center remarked, “I want Aquinians to . remove the stigma associated Villarina’s talk focused [with] asking help due to mainly on maintaining mental mental illness – never to be wellness as students. scared… for there are people Book-giving project heads to Romblon for 4th turnover Peer Facilitators willing to listen, understanding, President John Paul Javier also and ease their pains.” ■ spoke on handling depression By Miguel Platon from the parents, alumni, exclaimed Melmary Moscoso

students, teachers and other the Head-teacher of the school Last April, Aquin-yan at donors were finally donated to which only has 3 classrooms Para sa Lahat gave books and City, Nueva Ecija, and the pupils and teachers of and no existing library. Mr. Cariaga hinted that supplies to a school on an island Sorsogon. Cabibihan Elementary School the activity would culminate in Romblon. situated on top of an islet in The program aimed at sometime around March or On its fifth year, the the province of Romblon. promoting love for reading April next year and hopefully Nine sacks of fiction and book drive, with the newest I- especially among learners will be able to encourage the non-fiction books, five sacks of SHARE activity, will be “Nagulat talaga ako sa from the remote areas of the participation of students in the school supplies and 4 big boxes heading to a school in a far- mga ibinigay ninyo lalo na at country was already on its 4th actual book-giving, ■ of teaching and learning flung town in Laguna next personal pa ninyong inihatid year after it had donated to materials that were collected summer. ang mga tulong na ito,” public schools in San Juan

Aquinian IT whizzes wow at DLSU

by Gian Marquez

Aquinians put to work their innovative minds at a computer-science camp held at the (DLSU) last summer.

Aquinians won third place with their proposal “Fixie” which aims to reduce the emission of air pollutants by encouraging commuters and car drivers to use bike instead of fuel-driven vehicles. This would be formatted in an interactive game that will record the distance traveled, goals achieved and current scoreboard involving other individuals.

The camp started on 30 Apr, Monday and ended 5 May, Saturday with different workshops and activities. Spark. Aquinians win third place for their research proposal “Fixie”, an app designed to gamify and encourage bicycling to reduce carbon emissions (Photo courtesy of Ms. Lara Castro). Gian Marquez, a tenth grader, Jason Sigales, an eleventh grader and Kenneth Febrero, a twelfth grader The fourth day, May together with their advisers 4, Fri, gave the participants Past student council prexies return for Leadership Training Mr. Raymond Elisterio and an opportunity to visit the Ms. Lara Castro represented different laboratories of the the school. university and gather ideas By Benjamin Santos President Gian Marquez. a class to unity and excellence. for their research proposal to The participants were help the environment. Former Aquinian ‘14 alumni Nico Valdez “We believe that those given a chance to interact with student-leaders gave talks at and Byron Mark Tampoc are the topics that will stay in students from the said The fifth day, May 5, the Leadership Training, explained who an Aquinian the minds of student leaders and university who are taking Sat, served as the themed “Unity Towards leader should be and gave a those are the topics that will computer-science courses. culmination activity for the Excellence”, held on 25 Aug, speech entitled “Unleash the show them and let them realize participants. Saturday. Leader in You”. AY 2017 - what is a true leader and what Different workshops 2018 Supreme Student Council does it take to be a true leader,” filled the camp on game “[Spark] helped “We decided to invite (SSC) President Ichiro Arbole Marquez said. development, artificial students develop their previous Aquinian leaders as and Vice President for Internal intelligence, security concern for our environment our speakers for the training Affairs Antonio Ongdueco Marquez added, “We workshops, embedded systems by creating solutions that because we believe that they talked of maintaining strong delivered the main goal because and digital marketing will save our planet in an have the experience in being a class communication, handling at the end of the day, although workshops which were then innovative and creative true leader and we want to class contributions, and not all of them won first place at followed by a campus tour manner”, Academic Head for show the student leaders that financial reports. AY 2015 - the Amazing Race, they all did around the university in the Science and Computer Ms. leadership runs in the blood of 2016 SSC President Seth excellent as a group and that is afternoon. Lara Castro said. ■ Aquinians,” said SSC Pagulayan spoke about leading more important.” ■ Apr - Oct 2018 News 3

during the competition. Senior high reps Camaraderie is also very evident among the members. reach top I hope that the team continues to hone their quartile in abilities. Many History Bee improvements can be made especially in the areas of by Marcus Allas & time management and Jason Sigales decision making,” Ms. Castro added. Aquinian senior high representatives secured places Under Ms. Castro, the in the top quartile of a history Robotics Team increased bee held on 11 Aug, Saturday, activity and underwent at the Philippine Trade heavy restructuring. Training Center in Pasay City.

New kits were also Eleventh-grader Jason made available to expand the Sigales and twelfth-grader teams’ inventory. Lorenz Lim placed 37th and 43rd respectively out of more “The future of the than two hundred participants, ‘Next year ulit’. New recruits of the Robotics Team pose for a group photo after the 17th Philippine [Aquinas School Robotics coached by Academic Head Robotics Olympiad at Fisher Mall in Quezon City (Photo courtesy of Ms. Lara Castro). Team] depends greatly on for Humanities Mr. Reginald the members. I only organize Calina. This was Aquinas’ the group,” Ms. Castro said. second attempt at the contest. New recruits Adding pressure to the inexperience of the new However, Aquinians Ms. Castro added, “It The quiz bee, on its impress at members was a shorter considered their loss as a is not I who is the driving third run, is expected to return preparation time due to an learning experience. force behind the as part of the annual History Robotics earlier competition date. organization. That would be Con at World Trade Center Olympiad “The performance of the the job of the members. Manila. Despite the vigor Robotics Team was Therefore, it is the By Shun Adanza Aquinian teams showed, none outstanding,” Academic Head responsibility of the Hoping to break of them went past elimination. for Science and Computer and members to take initiative. through to the top ten, Mr. A baptism of fire. Robotics coach Ms. Lara So far, the organization is Calina said, “Definitely, we’ll “On a scale of 1 to 10, Castro said. taking baby steps. I am glad be joining next year. And, New members of the I’d rate our performance 5 there is a surge in the we’ll use more time to Aquinas School Robotics Team because, definitely, though I “Although most of them number of members; at least, prepare. Before the start of the had a good first try in the now have some experience, are new recruits and consider we are reviving the team. I school year, or early next Philippine Robotics Olympiad there is still room for themselves beginners when it only hope that the new year—at around February or held on 8 Aug, Wednesday, at improvement,” ninth-grader comes to building and members have passion and March, we’ll start reviewing Fisher Mall in Quezon City. Marcus Allas, a new member, programming, [the Robotics will commit to the and identifying those students said. Team] still showed their best organization’s future.” ■ who will be joining.” ■

Successful alumni give back to alma mater in Career Advocacy Program

by Aaron Araza to find the school most suitable ‘94 graduate Dr. for them and their desired Five successful alumni Raymand Guimba detailed a courses: University of Santo returned to their alma mater, long journey in the field of Tomas, San Beda University, imparting wisdom to senior high medicine. , De La students in the Guidance Salle University, and iAcademy Center’s Career Advocacy Mr. Vincent Juanta of to name a few. Program on 26 July, Thursday. batch ‘95 told the story of his growing all-day-breakfast Kanto “The purpose of the Create Your Future Today, The Aquinian Way. Senior high ‘89 alumnus Mr. Michael Freestyle, giving advice on Career Advocacy Week is for students with ‘95 alumnus and entrepreneur Mr. Vincent Juanta De Castro, now working in entrepreneurship. the Grade 11 and 12 students to (Photo courtesy of Mr. Reginald Calina) telecommunications, talked of be able to know where their his experiences in Aquinas and ‘05 alumnus Atty. Harley fields of expertise really belong. the challenges of college life. Manuel weighed the pros and The Aquinians gave remarkable cons of entering the field of law. advices and tips on their Arch. Jym Manuel of respective fields,” Guidance batch ‘09 gave students a crash Aquinians then went to Counselor Ms. Junjie Bautista course on his area of expertise. visit booths of , trying said. ■

Zeteo visits Aquinas for SciMaTech week by Railey Nuñez Technology at forefront of SciMaTech celebration

Zeteo Edutainment Liberating Innovation for visited Aquinians on Sep 24, The winners for Zeteo Go Collective Prosperity” included Mon, with high-tech games in Quest were Team 2 of Grade 4 – Little Einsteins for Grades 1 to Pera sa Basura. SSC gives trays to encourage recycling paper line with the school’s Fortitude, Team C of Grade 8 – 3, Aquinian Blockbuster for among Aquinians (Photo courtesy of Mr. Reginald Calina). celebration of SciMaTech week. St. John, and “Team Talong Jr.” Grades 4 to 6 in Division 1, of Grade 10 – St. Hyacinth for Grades 7 to 9 in Division 2, and A short role-play tested the average, hard, and hardcore Grades 10 and 12 in Division 3, Pera sa Basura Lagmay said, “One of the Aquinians through a digital levels respectively. and the Ecowall Making Aquinian core values is decision-making game entitled wherein students made graffiti enters year two concern for nature and the “Zeteo Storyline”. When asked why Zeteo on white cartolinas posted on environment. In line with was chosen for this year’s slate the façade of their classroom. by Kenji Reyes this core value, [Pera sa Zeteo Bus gave students of SciMaTech week activities, Basura] aims to help in the an exciting yet insightful ride. Math Department Head Mr. For Little Einsteins, Team Aligned with the core reduction and recycling of Later on, they had the option to Louie Cañadilla said, “The A of Grade 1 - Justice, Team B value of concern for nature and trash.” have their picture taken at a students [needed] to experience of Grade 2 - Kindness, and the environment, the Supreme photobooth. a different activity catered by Team B of Grade 3 - Student Council (SSC) The class with the [those] outside of the school Compassion won the said launched Pera sa Basura for highest accumulated trash Zeteo Go Quest, the main company.” competition accordingly. its second year on 16 July, collection for the said event, gave Aquinians the Monday. month in each division chance to play active parts in Other activities prepared As for the Aquinian… was awarded. ■ solving puzzles integrated with for the celebration themed SSC Secretary Jethro augmented reality. “Science for the People: Continue on page 4 4 News Apr - Oct 2018

Counsel in Division 2, Zeteo visits Grade 8 – St. John in Aquinas Division 3, and Grade 12 – From page 3 St. Valentine in Division 4. ...Blockbuster, Grade 6 – Dignity, Grade 7 – St. After the weeklong Antoninus, and Grade 10 – St. program, Mr. Cañadilla Hyacinth won in their remarked that this year’s respective divisions. celebration was a success because “students were In the Ecowall Making provided with activities contest, Grade 1 – Justice won that were different from in Division 1, Grade 5 – classroom activities.” ■

Mambabalagtas ng Taon. Aquinians are awarded for having shown love for the national language through frequent and fluent use (Photo taken by Justin Rubio)

Buwan ng Wika From page 1

...grades.

First-grader Seth Hermes Cruz, second-grader Paget Krishna Pandey, and third-grader Shinji Dela Cruz Trailblaze. Guest speaker Ms. Maria Celina Castro gives a talk to Trailblaze participants (Top; Photo won as champions in their courtesy of Mr. Reginald Calina). Participants gather into groups for an activity (Bottom; Photo courtesy respective levels. of Aquinas DYG).

Kakasa Ka Ba Sa Filipino? was a contest open to This was then followed given a chance to interact with students in the fourth to sixth DOMNET Youth by the traditional DOMNET others as they were divided grades, in which students were Group clap done by the whole into groups named after farm asked a series of questions Dominican youth with animals. They were asked to about Philippine history, the From page 1 “enormous and ignited” energy complete different activities , and the from the crowd, as they danced that tested their teamwork, Autocomplete. Grade 11— Different schools from famous lines of its national as one with the venue being trust, values, and friendship. heroes. St. Raymond’s Wikaratula different parts of Luzon participated in the day-long filled with laughter and positivity. “[Trailblaze] shows the Fourth-grader Antonio gathering, where inspirational talks and activities brought out unbreakable ties between our Paolo Gabriel Luna, fifth- reminded once more to Inspirational talks were community and the Dominican grader Mark Miguel Infante, the best in participants. give importance and value then delivered by Benz Rodil Network,” eleventh-grader and and sixth-grader Andre Joseph to the Filipino language and Celina Castro, which DOMNET Junior National Reyes won as champions in The whole gathering beyond the month’s started with a Eucharistic mass taught participants about Coordinator Harry Barotea their respective levels. festivities and promote it leadership. said. presided by Fr. Lauro de Dios. with the use of modern In Wikaratula, sections technology. ■ Participants were also Trailblaze: Luzon is just were encouraged to freely one of the many events express themselves, showing prepared by DOMNET to love and respect for the use of “set the trail among the the Filipino language. Grade second place win for Jeth Del in team categories will be youth”. Trailblaze: 3—Compassion, Grade 6— Cont. on page Rosario as Best Anchor, and heading to the Regional School Visayas and Mindanao are Dignity, Grade 9—St. Jordan, 4 third place win for Ziraili Basa Press Conference in late set to take place in and Grade 11—St. Raymond as Best News Presenter. September. November and January in won in their respective Aquinians line with the celebration of divisions. stand out At the same time, the Some of Aquinas’ grade the Year of the Youth.■

From page 1 team for English Collaborative school participants in Grade 6—Dignity won Desktop Publishing - Gian individual categories made it first place in the Sabayang Harry Barotea - first in Marquez, Railey Nuñez, to the top seven: Nathaniel Pagbigkas - a staple of the English editorial Marcus Ferrer, Gerald Baliton, Reyes - seventh in English annual Buwan ng Wika cartooning, Xavier Ala - Yadjee Lozano, Kenji Reyes, editorial cartooning, John celebration, with the Jennifer first in English and Jericho Navarro, made Carlo Rosano - third in their roles as teachers in Aguilar piece “Filipino: Wika photojournalism, Joshua their way up to second place Filipino feature writing, enhancing the youth’s values. ng Saliksik.” Concepcion - first in overall. Emmanuel Quinto - second in

English copyreading, Sean Filipino photojournalism, “As vanguards of truth For the high school Asesor - first in English The team for Filipino Armand Bernabeo - second in and justice, [we must] live up department, BigSayAwit fused editorial writing, and Jason Radio Broadcasting and Script English feature writing, and to our ideals,” Torrecampo together choral recitation Sigales - first in English Writing - Vincent Varlez, Andre Reyes - first in English said. (bigkas), dance (sayaw), and news writing. Kevin Uy, Aaron Araza, Kyle editorial writing. song (awit), with the Pat Lim, Benjamin Santos, Philip Next came the keynote Villafuerte piece “Filipino: Aquinas’ team for Sumido, and Andre Abad, Aligned with the theme speech of San Juan City Wika ng Maunlad na Bansa”. English Radio ranked first overall, bagging “Fostering 21st Century Skills Information Officer Ms. Grace

Broadcasting and Script all awards for Best Anchors, and Character-Based Pardines, inspiring participants Grade 9—St. Jordan and Writing - Matthew Fami, Best News Presenters, Best Education through Campus with motivational quotes. Grade 12—St. Valentine won Jeth Del Rosario, Dan Infomercials, Best Technical Journalism”, the event started first place in their respective Guiruela, Johndayll Application, and Best Script. with an inspirational message “Journalism should divisions. Arizala, Ziraili Basa, Kyle from San Juan Schools continuously exist because

Santos, and Justin Rubio, Participants placed Division Superintendent Dr. people should know the truth,” As the celebration came bagged second place seventh and above in the Joel Torrecampo, emphasizing Pardines said. ■ to a close, students were overall, along with a individual categories, and first Apr - Oct 2018 Opinion 5

coincide or not, Trillanes himself somehow exhibited a viral trait we Aquinians— King’s Eye rather Dominicans, embody, The Official Student Publication of Aquinas School John Paul Javier and that is to pronounce the truth despite heavy opposition Jason Sigales | Editor-in-Chief as he did spend his elementary Marcus Allas | Managing Editor years in Siena College, Quezon City. Railey Nuñez, Jeth Del Rosario, Ideal To young, idealistic officers who Aaron Araza, Daniel Ramos III staged mutinies against then- The senator in question Associate Editors Identity President Gloria Macapagal- still refuses to back down from Arroyo in 2003 and 2007, for a fight that puts him at a severe Ms. Giselle Posadas | Adviser For several years, which he and his companions disadvantage. Antonio Fuentes Trillanes IV faced the court martial. As a never knew how to surrender, result, he was jailed for seven Idealism does have its Mr. Mark Dinlasan, Mr. Jeff Cariaga once a former navy officer and and a half years. But in that pros and cons. As one becomes Consultants now a senator of the time, he ran for and won the too immersed in what you see Philippines. position of senator. as true, one may stray farther Sr. Rosalinda Calong, OP from the general truth majority Directress/Principal Now, his valor is once Corruption has been a uphold. It is a perspective again put to the test. long, underlying plague in the which displays resilience and government of the Philippines. loyalty for one never betrays President Rodrigo Roa Many have tried to resolve it, what he believes in. Duterte had recently ordered but it persists up to now in the revocation of the amnesty some sectors. Only a capable We just need to be very granted to him by his few are really able to expose careful in that sometimes our 6.7% predecessor, Benigno Aquino and fortify the truth. ideals may inflict wounds upon III, on the basis that he did not those around us, especially file an application for amnesty The world we live in those we trust. We must know and did not admit his guilt. today is being constantly where and where not to blinded by elements of compromise for the sake of Amnesty is an official deception, conflict, oppression, progress. pardon for people who have and the unjust. It has clouded been convicted of political the humane concept of living a This feud will offenses. The effect of truthful life. eventually take a long time amnesty is to completely before it is ever resolved. With obliterate previous offenses, The current president the evidences presented to us which, under normal rules with an iron fist, having from both sides, it remains circumstances and unlike a his dictatorial tendencies to unclear whether or not the pardon granted to a person eliminate anyone who dares to verdict will be carried out. 6.7% who is already convicted, criticize him. One example forgives and forgets the crime. was Senator . However, one thing is Trillanes happens to be next on certain: the truth will always Trillanes led a group of the list. But whether by prevail. ■ Illustration by Harry Barotea

afford these benefits? They will Minor Inconveniences surely suffer over TRAIN – 1. But even if you’re registered, Uncut Diamond that 200 pesos per month as a “Only 6.7%” to though. Any step in the Aaron Araza subsidy is not even enough, some. “Already 6.7%” to wrong direction, no matter because today 200 peso will many. how small, still counters only give you a meal for a day. progress. So TRAIN – 1 is really meant What is to blame? Is for the suffering of the it collateral damage from Politics aside, Filipinos? an intense trade war skyrocketing prices are not The Blind province to the urban market between China and the good for anyone, will increase the price needed to TRAIN – 2 is already United States? Is it particularly those of us Conductor cover the expenses and the same incoming, or the Tax Reform because of the already struggling to make time have a reasonable profit. for Attracting Better and High administration’s fiscal and ends meet. Last June, I went to my The rise in basic commodities Quality Opportunities economic policies? usual store to buy vegetables will affect everyone, including (TRABAHO), which is already Don’t downplay this and all the things my mother you. in senate hearing, yet senators While external as being a minuscule needs to make her special are hesitant to endorse factors beyond our control mistake. What may be a ginisang repolyo. Prices were Department of Finance TRABAHO because of another are at play, it cannot be minor inconvenience for still moderate, and a hundred (DOF) says that the TRAIN – 1 possible inflation hike. As long denied that recent you is, for others, a matter peso still is enough to buy the will only have an inflation rate as the government does not legislation has also had a of whether or not they get necessary ingredients except the ranging from 2% to 4%, yet make a good solution to solve significant impact on the to eat that day — a matter actual meat. they are likely to miss target. the people’s suffering over the prices of basic of life and death. Reports today say that inflation price hikes, no tax reform will commodities. Again, in August, I still rate spiked up to 5.7% last July. solve this. EDITORIAL The went to the same place, with the The likely reason for this is the Senators bright side, same items and the same recipe, increase of prices in food and The tax reform is really are even torn on a second though, is that measures only to find out that this one- sugar-sweetened beverages. meant for the uplifting of the package of tax reforms, are being taken to counter hundred peso is not enough to Rises were also observed in Filipino lives, to fund the fearing that it would only inflation and make basic buy the whole cabbage along alcoholic beverages and tobacco “Build, Build, Build” projects, fan the flames of an needs affordable. with its other ingredients. (21.5%), fuel, electricity, and the improvement in education already raging inferno. water (5.6%), transportation and hospital sectors, and many Alleviating the lives This is one of the many (7.9%), and health (3.7%). more. But if the people will Those quick to the of Filipinos should not be situations Tax Reformation for continue to suffer, then I don’t president’s defense seem a partisan issue. Pointing Acceleration and Inclusion According to economists, think it is really smart to get the rather optimistic, claiming fingers does not solve (TRAIN – 1) made. A law that these numbers will dwindle to funds from the Filipinos, that this is merely the anything. should uplift the status of a insignificant numbers in 2019, especially at the state like this. It indicator of an improving Filipino citizen became the yet what are we to do until clock can be executed at another day, economy we are yet to see Instead, be cause of the highest prices with strikes to the first day of next but there should be other — the darkest hour before compassionate. Empathize still the same amount of money year? Starve to death? problems that should be the dawn. with those more impacted to cover up expenses. prioritized. by inflation. And, while One of the original plans They also seem not all of us are experts, Inflation works its magic of DOF is to provide subsidies But, no matter how many indifferent towards the engage in civil on one sector, it will rise in for the poorest 10 million writers and people dissuade the media, rebuking them for discussions, and urge those sectors depending on that sector, households, to be facilitated by passing of the next package, taking inflation too in office to quit playing until such time that all sectors the DSWD, yet is based if you Duterte and his administration seriously and overlooking their lazy blame games will increase prices. One excise are registered on Listahanan, will continue to drive the the fact that, historically, and find solutions as tax that TRAIN – 1 is applied to Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino TRAIN towards the right we have seen worse. quickly as possible. is gasoline and diesel. Program, and social pensions destination, and along the way, (i.e. SSS). What about those kill millions of Filipinos laid on Don’t be fooled, ■ An increase in the cost of people who are not registered, the tracks. He will never delivery of fresh items from the who are in very rural areas, and hesitate, because he is dubbed people who are too poor to as the “blind conductor”. ■ 6 Leisure Apr - Oct 2018

P M E V L A R Y G J X W Y D J N W H C M Z V N K Y E O V Z C K E F T Q V N X I M J E Y W Y E I E T B T R H Y T H M Y B M Mayroong Pasok H R I M F V P A X X A E F J U By Sean Rodriguez L D H S R Q L R M H X Y E C I Q L C B F M I D F X W O I L N MAYROONG PASOK J G R S P L E R E M N K U C N U H E A C C O M M O D A T E E T E K C O N S C I E N C E I L I Z D R L U W J F Y P P O N L N F N D N U W N Y K P Y B D I J M A T H G I R W Y A L P I M S S H M G C E M E T E R Y C F X K Z C S S A R R A B M E T T Theme: Spelling Accommodate Indict ‘Pag Suspended Cemetery Millennium By Jan Asis Conscience Playwright Embarrass Rhythm Handkerchief Weird

L X C V V S I D N L H K W X P I M Y R R Q W D C E P B S M R Wala po tayong O A M I E S G B O Z P L G J E pasok sa lungsod W D T N W U M B D N I W A L C ng San Juan sa lahat ng antas. V A E O O I S X X R N E N L I D T Y W H F B C K G P A S A P C M O H S W F N I N H T N H I R E N R T A S U O B Z H O M T P D X H R A L O M X S E W O A F N I Y X E S L W N U R L I T T O S O M N N Z E T H D B S I L T F S O T R T B R O B D T O Q M M M O Y L T E N B Q A U N F L M G E Z N S K U E M N R K Z G R M E M V L I A H L U E Y Theme: Rain

Hail Snow Moisture Torrent Monsoon Umbrella Precipitation Weather Shower Wind Iba’t iba ang mga reaksyon ng mga estudyante sa balita ng suspension... E I Y N O H P M Y S L Z Q U V S G T Y H I L N R C E X F U K L Q G C R K L U Z I C L B O C O C K A H O O S D L X O P L K The Happy One The Sad One (kasi masipag) L I N L T A T N G D O R A Y N A N G O G I I A R B D J G R N C O E N E W X K V H K U Q I T L M H H N N F J O R N N C C S A R V C T S S D E V E T K J V S A G E P U N E Y T S S R B B S H J T K L U C M W Y K N J M I L N C S A B K N B K K Y O B C I X Z C Q J R W H L I D E C The Late Nag-suspend The #zquadgoalfeels A H V M N C R R D U N E Z P F L P E Q S C H U B E R T D O V Theme: Music

Classical Philharmonic Conservatory Schubert Ensemble Symphony Indie Tchaikovsky Lyric Techno Apr - Oct 2018 Feature 7

pay the regular 30% tax while firms with incentives pay only 6% to 13%. Therefore, the aim of the bill is to create a fair and accountable tax incentives system. The incentives must be performance-based, targeted to selected firms, transparent for everyone, and time-bound.

As always, just like TRAIN-1, it is inevitable that there are groups of people who are against the passing of TRABAHO bill. House Makabayan bloc says that it is pro-rich and not pro-poor. They said that it cannot be separated with TRAIN-1, as it has made millions of families suffer. It would also include additional excise taxes on basic needs that would continue to affect millions of families. Lowering corporate income tax to 20% would also indirectly favor big companies whom have managed to prosper in the 30% tax rate. A 10% tax cut in big companies is much larger than a 10% tax cut in small firms. Trabaho. Through the second tax reform package, the Department of Finance hopes to create over a million new jobs for Filipinos (Photo taken from UNFPA-Philippines). Private hospitals and private educational institutions Representatives has named the companies that are, in a way, also discouraged the said TRABAHO For The Tax Reform for upcoming second package subsidized.” said Batangas passing of the bill. The Private Who? Attracting Better and High TRABAHO to counter the Representative Raneo Abu. Hospitals Association of the Quality Opportunities controversy surrounding Philippines said that even if the by Aaron Araza (TRABAHO) is the next step TRAIN-1. Lowering taxes in the 10% cut would benefit the after the debatable Tax Reform business sector will mean tax hospital, it will not benefit the “Trabaho” is a very for Acceleration and Inclusion TRABAHO Bill’s main hike in other sectors – a patients as they will rely more familiar Filipino word which (TRAIN) Package 1 which feature is lowering corporate tax broadening of tax base. The on PhilHealth for their medical means “a job to do for a living”. caused the inflation hike for the from 30% to 20%. Department of Finance would needs. And when the Now, some believe that this past few months due to the “It is not a tax bill. It is a remove the 15% gross income government is delayed in paying does not mean jobs. Instead, a increase of prices of fuel and corrective measure to remove tax option for corporations. the debt, the hospital is forced to loss of it. drinks with sugar. The House of overlaying incentives given to Hospitals and private close. educational institutions would be subjected to a test of The Coordinating Council performance to see if the 10% is of Private Educational still reasonable. Otherwise, they Associations of the Philippines would have a tax rate of 15% to said that the unreasonable 20%. Multinational companies regulation of tuition and school would receive a 10% mandatory fees would prevent them from tax instead of being an option raising salaries and making the for regional operating school more competent to the headquarters. Optional Standard standards of Department of Deduction would become Education and Commission on uniform for both individual and Higher Education. corporate taxpayers at 40% of gross income except micro to Duterte’s main goal, as medium sized businesses stated in his State of the Nation determined by the Department Address, is to sign TRAIN-2 at of Trade and Industry. the end of the year. However, no senator wants to sponsor the Also in order to aid the second tax package says rationalization of tax incentives, Majority Leader Juan Miguel the Department of Finance Zubiri. (DOF) came up with the Strategic Investment Priority Senator Sonny Angara Plan (SIPP) still under says that the Senate doesn’t TRABAHO bill. This plan will want to pass a tax package that Ghosting. Suddenly cutting off all ties with anyone may leave psychological damage as painful be formulated every three years may cause another inflation as the physical (Photo taken from eHarmony). and will be done by the Board hike. House Speaker Gloria of Investments. The SIPP would Macapagal Arroyo, however, emphasize on job creation, said that it will be a priority ghosting. PsychologyToday, social research and development, under her leadership. The Science of rejection can affect the provincial development, Ghosting Ghosting as cited by brain the same way innovation, and skill training. 10 former secretaries of Wikipedia is the act of physical pain does. This will aid in which DOF supported the TRABAHO by John Arkin Tan, breaking off a relationship by Obviously, you would get companies really deserve to get bill because they see the Contributor ceasing all communication and psychological distress to a tax incentives. Abu further proposal as a fair and well contact with the partner level depending on your explained that 57% of all crafted plan. It encourages an Halloween has without any warning or self esteem and other businesses enjoying tax equitable and inclusive growth, already passed. justification and ignoring the variables. incentives do not deserve to a competitive business partner's attempts to continue enjoying them. environment, and a strong Sweets, candies, and communicate. You practically Ghosting, however, countryside development. frightening, terrifying become a ghost. We all know does not strictly refer to There are two reasons abominations are a staple that ghosts are like the dating and crushes. It also why DOF wants a tax All in all, TRABAHO bill of the yearly occasion. embodiment of the soul of a applies to friendships. It reformation. First is Philippines aims to lower corporate income However though, spirits departed person, but they also may initially be seen as a has the highest corporate tax and fix the tax system and and ghosts may continue have a sense of detachment form of the silent income tax rate (CIT) with 30%. incentives in the Philippines. It to haunt others even when knowing that their physical treatment when the ghost When compared to other is revenue neutral says it's not trick or treat time. bodies are no longer possessed intends to sever things off countries like Singapore (17%) Department of Finance Ironically though, it and now empty shells of for good. This is immature or China (25%), it is high, yet Undersecretary Karl Chua, but happens when someone themselves. behavior as it can give the these countries are successful in we’ll never know the true disappears instead of receiving end a boatload of attracting businesses. Second is effects of the law because all of following around. The psychological problems including having Philippines has a very complex the above statements are effects of ghosting can be no idea why and what did tax incentives system. Due to speculations. But there is a This is the act of devastating. It can even affect they do to get rejected. this, Php 301 billion was question that will always be too physical health. According to granted to over 3,000 firms in late to answer: TRABAHO for 2015. Firms with no incentives who? ■ 8 Feature Apr - Oct 2018

astonishing as this occurred. prolongs. Philippine arts and But, for the country to acquire culture have far transcended a its own Department of Culture basic two-way nature of both is a tangible key of obtaining local and foreign mix. It brings solid identity. upon a perpetual gathering of expression. What it is connects A memory diminishes not bridges that no one thought of through time, but of value. building in the first place. It acts Filipino heritage in general has a platform to the once constantly maintained its festive diminishing practices which for value that allowed it to prosper long underestimate the wrong for several generations. But the “traditional” – a platform one surmount rise of globalization can fully cherish. further brought upon a boost in international trends. Rarely will There have been dreams you see something both beatific and wishes of when the and traditional in a city. Right promotion of artistic resources now, no petal is ever ever resurface. But they come accompanied with shades other around in such a bountiful than red or white. harvest. Objects become realized once they are longed Who we are is not a for, dearly. A signature culture question, but a discover. It is no exception. One that is Sining. The National Commission for Culture and the Arts designates the month of February as National becomes a rocky landslide if renowned only within. Under Arts Month (Photo taken from Sining Factory). one were to dissect cultural the proposed measure of the act, traits from appearance only. The numerous national agencies easy to have knowledge of flash and dazzle akin to several strive to preserve Philippine Solidifying something if you know how it Art never hides but aligned stars seem only as bright heritage. Senator Francis Identity behaves. The same can be said reveals itself in appreciation. lights. There is no different Escudero, the chair of this for society. Society is a painting This November, ten senators when it comes to that of local Senate committee on education, arts. Seldom does it stand out arts, and culture, as well as the By John Paul Javier that changes often. The artwork pushed to reorganize the because of the fizzling sponsor of the bill were it to is the identity and style is the National Commission for expectation of something become a law, envision the Identity is usually found culture. But, for a jovial nation Culture and the Arts (NCCA) such as the Philippines, into an independent Department historical. In most cases, it ends importance of our national and in an individual’s culture. The up as artworks made by artists. aesthetic identity. Perhaps, this two are bread and butter enculturation brings an entirely of Culture. It has been quite a painting finally receives its wherever you venture. It is very different illusion to the painting. few decades since something as In every step, a journey grand debut. ■

Toiled For Nothing by Gian Marquez

Work.

Whether it’s the physics- related term or the word being repeated from Rihanna’s chart- topping song, work is a pretty common word for all of us to hear, especially for adults who spend almost their entire day working for a living.

We Filipinos are known to be hard workers. Our country sends overseas workers to other countries in numbers that no other country can match. We are also capable of handling different jobs even if it costs a lot of our energy.

Yet, if we are this capable and talented in working, then why do we see rallyists along the streets shouting and The Long Fight. Protestors call for the regularization of contractual workers in the Philippines (Photo taken from Rappler). demanding for work? Why do we see our kababayans along the streets collecting alms Throughout the past Silvestre Bello III, the instead of working? Why does a administrations, Department of Labor and huge portion of our population contractualization served as a Employment (DOLE) Secretary. live under the poverty line? very huge crack that separates Yet again, this number is not Why is there a need to boycott Filipinos from the government. enough to declare our nation as companies and leave hundreds This has been a solution-less poverty and endo-free. wounded? Why do we have to issue of our country for years. wake up with fear that our job Not until President Rodrigo Are we on the right track? will be taken away from us? Duterte put a very big period on That will depend on the actions the issue during the presidential that our President will take in The reason behind these elections in 2016 stating that the the progression of his term. We things continues to baffle said system is limiting the all know that different EOs were economists, enrage the growth of our country and must filed and signed, but this does community and set different be eliminated from public and not cover every corner of this companies in alert as the current private companies as soon as problem. At the end of the day, government administration tries possible. contractualization still exists. to get rid of the wall that Though we are taking baby separates workers from having a Different executive orders steps in solving this issue, we From IBON Foundation permanent job: (EO) regarding the abolishment are far from over. contractualization. of contractualization were issued and signed by the What is the missing prioritizing themselves alone need a lot of time, and even “Endo” refers to the short President upon the start of his element for this issue to stop? A but also prioritize workers by more rallies. But some day, -term employment in our term, with the latest being one stronger cooperation between giving them jobs that does not years of continuous combatting country. It is a system where in 1 May. But, this is not the President, DOLE, and have any expiration and benefits contractualization will finally companies give workers enough to eradicate endo. On companies should be established that will assist them in times of pave the way for Filipinos to temporary jobs that lasts for six the bright side, an estimate of in order to set a single solution need and of course. finally have decent work. months or less, leaving them 36,000 workers have been that will stop contractualization \ jobless and without benefits regularized from their works once and for all. And in return, Will we be able to end We would not have toiled once the contract ended. last 2016 upon the takeover of companies should stop endo once and for all? It might for nothing. ■