commentary national situationer Rules and Reason, 3 The Strong Republic, 9 As deliberations for changes in the Why has the national economy been Student Handbook begin, we analyze particularly resilient amid events like the logic--or lack of it--behind some the Makati standoff and the Batasan University policies. bombing.? BastionLaSall of issue-oriented criticalia thinkingn vol. xlViI no. 7 the official student publication oF de la salle university 13 December 2007

Ground Zero. At least 200 heavily-armed soldiers and policemen were deployed around the Manila Peninsula during the six-hour standoff staged by Magdalo soldiers last Nov. 29. photo by francis garrucho Revised THES-QS methods affect DLSU ranking By Alliv lorelei Samson IN THE KNOW here is nothing to regain, as nothing was lost.” Examples of impacts associated with global The UN’s Final Climate “ These were the words of Jose Mari Magpayo, executive director of the Marketing Com- average temperature change Global mean annual temperature change relative to Change Report Tmunication Office (MCO), in reaction to DLSU -Manila’s monumental 127 place decline in 1980-1999 (OC) the 2007 Times Higher Education Supplement-Quacquarelli Symonds (THES-QS) World University In its final and most compelling report, the Rankings. After landing the 392nd spot in the 2006 edition, DLSU-Manila now finds itself at 519th United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on t e r

place, far outside those considered as the world’s elite. a Climate Change (IPCC), after 19 years of study,

W concluded that evidence for global warming is “unequivocal,” that human activities are largely Did something go wrong? Ranking not Rating responsible for it, and—most importantly—that Initial speculations that DLSU-Manila did not par- “We have to bear in mind that this survey is exactly the rise in temperature is “likely to lead to some ticipate in the 2007 THES-QS rankings were dispelled what it is: a survey conducted every 12 months among irreversible impacts.” (The IPCC and former US by Chancellor Dr. Carmelita Quebengco, who said that universities cited in the survey population. You will Vice President Al Gore were jointly awarded the “the THES-QS requested some very specific data from note that the biggest weight in the ratings is reserved Nobel Peace Prize last October.) With global greenhouse gas emissions us, and just like our response to similar requests that for Peer Review at 40 percent. This is a top-of-mind E co syst e m do not involve confidential data, we sent them what issue—do your peers know your university well enough projected to still grow over the next decades they requested.” to rate it high? This is especially critical for the lesser given current practices, the IPCC assessment is In the past, THES-QS received many criticisms for known Third World universities. As the rankings show, particularly bleak. Incidents of extreme heat and both its methodology and criteria, and so in an effort to the established ‘brands’ are out on top – Harvard, Stan- very heavy rain are expected to be more frequent. improve, these two aspects were modified to better suit ford... We should just take the survey at its face value: its Freshwater scarcity, increased flooding, and more the way the rankings were done. Major changes were strongest survey parameter is peer review. So maybe we cases of diarrhea are predicted to plague South- foo d implemented, particularly in the primary factors taken were not as popular with our peers in 2007 as we were east Asia by the 2050s. And once global average into consideration, in order to promote stability and in 2006,” said Magpayo. warming exceeds 3.5 degrees Celsius, “significant consistency in the rankings. The direct result of these Two new major aspects of the survey have had a extinctions (40 to 70 percent of [plant and ani- changes has been to drastically differentiate this year’s significant effect on the way the rankings turned out mal] species assessed) around the globe” should rankings from last year’s results. In essence, it comes as this year. The shift to the normalized or z-score has occur. Nonetheless, the report states that there is “substantial economic potential” for investments no surprise that DLSU-Manila finds itself amid unfa- created a huge impact in the way scores are aggregated coa sts miliar academic territory. across the different criteria. In the old methodology, in alternative sources of energy, though stabiliz- the direct scaling of the scores in comparison to the ing greenhouse gas levels in the atmosphere could top performing school had somewhat made the score cause a 5.5 percent decrease in global GDP.

Demystifying the Survey t h Knowing fully well the possible backlash of causing a rating. In effect, the weights given to the different On a related note, Dec. 14 will mark the end criteria might be superseded by the immense discrepancy of the two-week UN Climate Change Conference such a stir in the World University Rankings, THES-QS H eal has openly published the complete set of revisions found in a particular criterion. This year’s methodology at Bali, Indonesia, where more than 180 country made in the guidelines, and even presented the viewing succeeds in making the survey comparative in nature, representatives and observers are gathered to lay as the scoring reflects only the ranking of the school in the groundwork for a future international agree- public with the rationale behind its adaptation of the Legend: new system. Further clarifications were also made as relation to others. Fixed increase in Continual increase ment to fight climate change upon the expiration temperature in temperature regards the peer review concept, which remains the Further scrutiny reveals that the other side effect of the Kyoto Protocol on 2012. Adopted from the summary report of IPCC: http://www.ipcc.ch/pdf/ centerpiece and most controversial aspect of the survey. of using the z-score would be to tone down the pro- assessment-report/ar4syrspm.pdf infographic by johnalene baylon As excerpted from an article written by Ben Sowter in nounced strengths of universities that have excelled way the QS Quacquarelli Symonds’ website, “The most beyond their peers in particular fields. In rationalizing common question we receive on this matter is ‘How this change, THES-QS explained that they preferred do you identify these peers?’” this system because it would produce more stable year- A statement from the Brothers Overall, four major developments were introduced on-year rankings. In the long run, the net effect is that in this year’s rankings, namely: peer reviewers being universities would not need to reach excessively high LET US START THE CHANGE WE WANT TO SEE prevented from promoting their own universities, a rating standards in order to rank comparatively well. For La Salle Green Hills Retreat House switch to Scopus from Essential Science Indicators schools like DLSU-Manila that have focused more on National Heroes Day (Thomson) for citation data, the consistent usage of its relative strengths, the implication is that excellence 30 November 2007 Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) data for all personnel-re- in certain fields is likely undermined by weaknesses in lated statistics, and Z-score aggregation of indicators less noticed academic areas. To all Filipinos of goodwill, to generate overall scores. In addition, changes were Changes made in the actual survey methodology in also made to the way peer review scores are computed, the peer review also have their own distinct impacts on Profoundly disturbed by recent events, we the De La Salle Brothers of the Philippines, have decided as a as the input from the past two years were also included the ranking results. Restricting reviewers from voting body to exercise our vocation as teachers and guides by raising our voices in protest at the moral degeneration in order to have a larger and more reliable reference for their own universities has both lessened the bias and that has infiltrated almost every aspect of public life since we called for a restoration of faith in democracy base. In effect, any change in the opinion of the peer somehow puts into question the survey itself, since peer in 2005. reviewers over the past year would have less impact on reviewers coming from globally recognized universities In July of that year, we and our colleagues issued a public statement in response to the crisis brought a school’s ranking and score. would only be telling the truth when they include their on by the Garcillano tapes and the ensuing controversies surrounding President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. own institutions in their list of those considered excel- At that time, we spoke out as educators, charged with the moral guidance of the young and concerned with ling in their field. SEE Revised, PAGE 10 SEE statement, PAGE 6 u n i v e r s i t y u n i v e r s i t y 2 13 december 2007 13 december 2007 3 THE LASALLIAN THE LASALLIAN Political science prof calls Br. Andrew’s “unfinished court ruling ‘political’ symphony” In 1998, Br. Andrew Gonzalez— by carlito reyes jr who was named DLSU President Emeritus in 2005—was appointed n a Sept. 7, 2007 Supreme Court decision, Political Science professor Victor Andres education department secretary Manhit was declared guilty of “conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service” by then-President Joseph Estrada. for not following government procurement and accounting policies as former I During his almost three years with Department of Education, Culture, and Sports (DECS, now DepEd) undersecretary for DECS, Br. Andrew was known for external affairs. He was fined an amount equivalent to six months of his salary. instituting a wide number of reforms This verdict, Manhit said, is politics at work. and new initiatives: the Heritage COMMENTARY The story behind the case investigations and not a formal hearing, School Building Restoration Program According to Manhit, the person that raised the which is why he defended himself all the with the National Commission for issue that led to the verdict was actually a suspended way to the Supreme Court. According to Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the civil servant facing corruption charges back in 2000— him, there were no forced resignations or two years into Br. Andrew Gonzalez’s stint as DECS similar incidents, because the complaint was use of regional vernacular languages secretary. Nonetheless, the case continued. administrative and not criminal in nature. as medium of instruction for the What happened, according to the Supreme Court first three elementary school levels, ruling, was that the Department purchased vehicles Water under the bridge Rules, rights, and reason the Adopt-a-School program for from a special account it had with Landbank of the As the Supreme Court passed judgment on By RAYMUND CUESICo Philippines arising from the latter’s donation of P12 him, Manhit said: “I cannot do anything on that extending private sector assistance artwork by francis borromeo million for DECS’ purchase of office equipment. aspect anymore, Br. Andrew is already dead and it to public schools, the establishment ules and regulations exist to establish order in an organization or institution. Without these guidelines, there would be no The issue is procedural, said Manhit. He explained was just the fighter in me that continued [with the reminded Br. Andrew about the politics involved in of a new curriculum focused on just concrete basis in determining the proper decorum that should prevail within the confines of the group. In general, rules that through the efforts of the department, some case], but it’s okay.” He added that he remains proud the work, but the Brother would reply that he did not five subjects (English, Filipino, social are created to help solve decision-making problems, as guides for usage, action, and behavior. vehicles had been donated and were all accounted for: of institutional reforms put up during Br. Andrew’s intend to “play politics.” “It’s because they said donations in government should term as secretary, such as the new curriculum, more “Br. Andrew had a vision [that] might have been studies, mathematics, and science), R be surrendered to the national treasury before going transparent DepEd procurement guidelines, and too advanced for a dinosaur, a bureaucracy stuck and—most famously—the revision of back to the Department of Education—one simple decentralization that has empowered lower-ranking photos By alvin lau in the past; and because of that we experienced textbook printer bidding procedures procedural mistake.” education officials. frustrations. There will be people who will frustrate Manhit then recounted that the case was forwarded The problem, according to Manhit, is that the to achieve a better student-textbook you by challenging whatever reforms you implement, In the same way that a nation needs written legisla- used for gambling. Otherwise, it is as harmless as any series of both the NBA and the UAAP. Should the responsibilities? to the Senate through Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile, who was system “shoots down” people who initiate meaningful [and] who will be always looking for you to make a ratio. tion in the form of laws, our university has compiled other set of cards, and maybe even more useful, as University continue to tolerate such gross violations one of the first persons to learn about the complaint. change. Implementing an on and off switch mistake,” stated Manhit. In the end, he said the best Br. Andrew released in 2002 into the Student Handbook the essential values and familiarity with it actually helps in statistics courses just because it has turned a blind eye to this reality and The matter, according to Manhit, became a big issue. While a good policy can be created, it becomes thing that the public can do on issues like this is to morals that it seeks to defend and preserve. Unfor- that commonly use combinations of these cards as instead focused its sights on petty acts? “The funny thing is after the investigation, the Political game a memoir of his days as secretary, futile if it is not properly and consistently implemented demand accountability and transparency from the tunately, even with the passage of time, there are examples in counting theory and probability. In perspective, the provision on gambling becomes by the authority. The University, therefore, has the Senate said they did not find a violation so they stopped, The political science professor believes that the An Unfinished Symphony: 934 days at government. still valid questions that can be raised regarding the On the other hand, the eating policy also presents utterly useless if it does not achieve what its intended but the Ombudsman came into the picture and said case is simply part of the political process, and that his Prior to working as undersecretary for the DECS. underlying justifications presented for these handbook a confusing situation for many students, since there are objective is: forbidding any form of gambling in the there was a violation,” he said. He also remarked that late boss simply lacked understanding of the way things education department, Manhit was in government as rules. As preparations for the upcoming handbook some places that are apparently fit for eating but have campus. the evidence used in the case came from documentary are done in government. He remarked that he always deputy secretary of the Senate. revisions year are already on the way, the community been designated as non-eating places. Given the obvi- A law that is impossible to has to start reflecting on the real reasons why we have ous space constraint in our campus, it is quite obvious Catching the real leak created such rules, and how we can really effectively that students would be forced to look for alternative The Student Handbook states that cheating of any accomplish under implement them. venues where they can eat. Certain occasions and situa- form during tests, examinations, or written reports is causal conditions and CBE to offer ladderized tions also seem to be exempt from these rules. Glaring considered as a major offense. Unauthorized posses- Legislative Assembly drops examples would be birthdays, and even the innocent limiting laws cannot and Dura lex, sed lex sion of notes or any material relative to the examina- economics program Upon entering the University, all students are meetings where food is openly allowed to be present tion or test whether the students actually use them or must not be recognized. required to comply with the provisions found in the within offices. not is considered as an act of cheating. This policy’s by Jose Antonio Lorenzo Tamayo Student Handbook to guide proper student behavior. intended objective of eliminating intellectual dishon- erring rep’s impeachment That is why school policies must be thought out well Chance encounters esty is commendable, along with its strict prohibition Starting next school they will only need to add subjects to their and actively monitored, in order to avoid confusion in Gambling of any form is forbidden inside and of examination leakages. But is it logical to consider biggest responsibility of ensuring that the school poli- by Gale Maramba case were his negligence of duty (not being able to do the responsi- year, the Economics Department will pio- academic load. interpretation and maximize their use. outside the University, including all academic functions any student having study materials about the items on cies are being followed all the time through consistent bilities he was mandated to fulfill because he was out of town), his neer a ladderized program that will allow On the issue of these graduate stu- Information dissemination is one of the first steps or school activities. It is defined in economic terms as the examination committing the act of cheating? monitoring. accumulation of more than five absences in the LA sessions, and his undergraduate students of economics to dents being readily given a post in the in making sure that laws are followed. Aside from the betting of money on occurrences with uncertain Students cannot help but conduct their own re- The Information Technology Center (ITC) has On Nov. 14 and 21, the Legislative Assembly failure to inform the SC that he will be taking a Leave of Absence continue their studies toward attaining a University upon graduation, Dr. Cabegin the typical logistics distribution problem of giving outcomes. The Student Handbook specifically states search and be resourceful by gathering and studying prohibited certain websites including pornographic and (LA), voting 17-15, decided not to impeach EDGE 07 LA (LOA). SC officers are prohibited by the SC Constitution to be on master’s degree or a Ph.D. clarified that “they will have to [undergo] student handbooks to everyone, the bigger issue is in that playing cards of any form is also prohibited, all the materials related to the topics of the lesson. gaming sites, but the mere fact that students continue According to Economics Depart- the standard procedures” should they Representative Vic Teruel. (Two-thirds of the Assembly have LOA, and are only allowed three unexcused absences for the entire the education of the students as to the reasons why because the wagering of the winning outcome in card Is it really their fault that some professors habitually to be monitored for accessing supposedly illegal or year. ment Chairperson Dr. Emily Cabegin, want to apply. “We are not obligated to get games is one of the most common gambling activities. recycle their exams and that these tests have already immoral sites is proof enough that the school officials to concur to an impeachment of an elected Student Council On Nov. 6, the Ethics Committee had an initial hearing and it while the master’s program is open to all students,” she added. Even chess matches, which exercise logical thinking, been distributed as official reviewers by professional are not confident with the security measures they (SC) officer for proceedings to begin.) was decided that the impeachment case was to be endorsed to the students, only economics majors will be The Economics Department, ac- can be considered as an offense if conducted within organizations? have put in place. In recent memory, some sites like entire Legislative Assembly. allowed to enter the ladderized program. cording to Dr. Cabegin, is confident that In our modern society the premises of offices because its outcome can be During instances when such a scenario occurs, YouTube have been banned and allowed repeatedly, It may be recalled that last Oct. 22, an impeachment complaint However, according to SC President Noey Arcinue, a resolution Basic economics courses in mathematics the ladderized program will be “a good where being outspoken also wagered upon. If this line of reasoning would be university officials should be compelled to apprehend meaning there is no definite criteria that will be able was filed against Teruel by Col- was approved on Teruel’s removal from office on Nov. 28. “The ap- and statistics are prerequisites to admis- preparatory course” for students who wish followed, then all objects that can represent different students who have possession of materials that hold to encompass all supposedly disallowed sites. artwork by paul lege Assembly of Educa- pointment of his replacement and his official memo to his batchmates sion into the ladderized economics track. to enter into graduate studies overseas is the norm and liberal probable outcomes should also be banned, since they the exact questions that will come out in the test, since Another school policy that is not being well matthew jiao tion President Anil regarding this are still pending,” Arcinue stated. Entering students will then need to take and for those who wish to work in the can be used to gamble. this is covered by the policy. If the provision is applied implemented is the prohibition of smoking inside or Ratanchandani, SC Ex- Previously, in the open session of the Ethics Committee for his and pass a calculus refresher course, along academe, since it “caters to different types thinking has pervaded the While the implementation of the provision on in a situation wherein one of the study materials of a outside the University during academic functions or ecutive Secretary Jenn case, Teruel stated that he needed to stay longer in the United States with a qualifying exam. “One must have of students.” classroom, students have gambling is focused upon activities using gaming student matches even an item in his exam or test, this school activities. Students who smoke within the five Lazo, and CED LA because of certain circumstances that were beyond his control. In the mathematical maturity so a student can What’s it like devices, monitoring has been deficient regarding the can be considered as a major offense. So are the only meters of the school premise are prevalent due to the Represantatives. course of the impeachment trial, he apologized for what happened. understand the text or materials that’ll be According to Council of Student begun to question the activities of students who bet on sporting events, authorized notes the ones given by the professors, and now missing yellow demarcation lines that indicate the According to used for the program proper,” explained Organizations (CSO) Chairperson Charles reasons why such policies games, and competitions. The sad reality is that there the only sources indicated in the course syllabus? minimum allowed distance. Even cigarette butts are Ethics Committee Promoting Accountability Dr. Cabegin. Edric Co who is under the Chemical En- is already a prevalent culture of betting within the If the University is really serious about implement- discarded at the entrances of the University, which are Chairperson Chichi “I think it (Teruel’s case) made it clearer to all students that the Economics students who will be part gineering ladderized program, simultane- even exist. university that involves students, wherein sometimes ing an anti-leakage policy, then it must also conduct a clearly within the coverage of its premises. Tullao, the grounds Student Council is intensifying the credibility and accountability of of the ladderized program will be asked ously taking undergraduate and graduate monetary transactions are conducted within campus. review of the test questions coming out during exams for fil- ing the elected officers to their duties and responsibilities [as] mandated by to complete the same set of requirements courses is advantageous because of the The popularity of betting on the statistics of basketball and make sure that these do not resemble the ones Musts in policy formation the people who elected them,” commented Tullao. She said as regular economics majors, though two difficulty most people encounter in going such rules exist. In our modern society where being players or predicting the outcome of championship given in reviewers. Otherwise, this situation really If school policies are not well-defined and well- that the SC is safeguarding the roles of every officer for of their electives will be credited to the back to their studies after having started outspoken is the norm and liberal thinking has per- games has grown and spread in recent years without becomes a glaring example of cheating and academic deliberated, it will be difficult to modify student them to be more conscious about their actions in and master’s degree. Those who will opt for working. vaded the classroom, students have begun to question any notice being taken by school officials. The evolu- dishonesty. The rapid technological advancement in behavior. It is because without clear guides, actions out of DLSU. the Master of Science in Economics (MSc In addition, Co said that the academic the reasons why such policies even exist. Through the tion of this form of gambling has seen advancements recent years must always be considered by school of- or decisions are subjected to many questions regard- Arcinue added that this impeachment case should not Economics)-Seminar Paper Track will need workload is reasonable, since even those process of maintaining discipline, it would be of great such as winning margin probabilities and power rank- ficials, since leakages can now easily be spread in the ing their validity. Instead of helping create solutions, be taken as an isolated case or the responsibility of only one to complete 45 units of coursework, inclu- who have not finished all their undergradu- help if the students are convinced that there are valid ings for teams. ten-minute break in between classes through the use ambiguities in school policies lead to more problems. SC officer, batch, or political party. “It should be the burden sive of the seminar paper and the compre- ate courses could easily cope with those reasons why such rules have to be followed. This kind of gambling can be very hard to moni- of calls and text messages. But what is the standard of a well-defined and well- of the entire SC as well… The five and more sessions where hensive exam. On the other hand, the MSc who have finished college already. The only Unfortunately, there are still some policies in tor and detect because it lacks gaming devices that can deliberated school policy? Vic Teruel was absent this second term as well as his declara- Economics-Ph.D. track will require from difficulty that he said he has encountered place that seem rather antiquated and hinged upon be used as evidence. But nonetheless, this form of Ghost signatories One criteria of a good law is that it achieves and tion of vacancy showed that EDGE 07 did not have proper students the completion of 60 units as a so far has been scheduling his classes. Co questionable grounds. There are two sample policies gambling does have extreme repercussions in terms Forgery is an offense that is now often neglected becomes consistent with its intended objectives. If it and effective student representation in policy-making,” she master’s student, and 66 units as a doctoral shared that there are some days when his that only ban the activity under certain conditions. The of the financial transactions involved, with bets easily and no longer checked. The most common occurrence does not fulfill its goals, then it is deemed ineffective. remarked. student—including comprehensive exams classes begin at 8 am and end at 9 pm— first one concerns the usage of the standard 52-card reaching the thousands especially during the finals of this type of dishonesty is evident when students are So a school policy that does not achieve what it is and the dissertation. requiring him to be in the University for deck of playing cards in university premises, with the asked to pass waiver forms for out of campus activi- supposed to must be revised. Another criterion that New measures implemented Dr. Cabegin shared that the depart- more than 12 hours. He added that eating exception of collectible cards; the second one is eating ties. As much as the University would like to trust the can be applied in defining a good law is that it must In order to prevent similar future cases, the Ethics Com- ment has begun inviting economics dinner has been a problem, since most in classrooms, laboratories, offices and study areas in The provision on gambling integrity of the students, there must be checks put in conform to the laws of nature and logic. A law that is mittee has started issuing Memo Card Slips to elected officers students with CGPAs of at least 3.0 to of his undergraduate classes end at 5:50 buildings and the Sports Complex. becomes utterly useless if place in order to verify if indeed the signatures that impossible to accomplish under causal conditions and to remind them about their attendance record: pink slips for one pioneer the master’s program. On the pm and his graduate classes begin just ten The case of the playing cards presents a curious appear on these waiver forms are those of the proper limiting laws cannot and must not be recognized. absence up to two tardiness offenses, and red slips for more than other hand, those who are interested in minutes after. issue, since the only distinguishing trait between the it does not achieve what its authorities, like parents or guardians. Unfortunately, Lastly, a law must also be limited in the light of two absences. She emphasized though that “constant reminders pursuing the MSc but do not meet the The Economics and Chemical Engi- standard 52-card deck of playing cards and all other it happens all too often that members of organiza- existing and practical means. Policies are created to be from us are only to safeguard and protect the votes the students CGPA requirement will need to complete neering Departments are not the only ones collectible cards is the fact that it is used ubiquitously intended objective is: tions would go scampering for signatures in the last beneficial upon implementation. Hence, they must help had cast. The responsibility still lies with the elected officer. the refresher course and pass the qualify- offering ladderized programs. Undergradu- as gambling paraphernalia. If the sole reason behind forbidding any form of minute just for documentation purposes and so that students behave in ways that personify their school’s “SC officers should individually and collectively not be negligent ing exams. The Economics Chairperson ate-graduate dual degree programs are also the prohibition of the use of these cards would be their activities will push through. If for such a petty situa- vision. of their duties, undermine the integrity of the SC, or violate our SC added that the set-up is possible even for available in Industrial Engineering, Philoso- potential use as a gambling tool, then the rule should gambling in the campus. tion our students cannot exercise prudence, then how All in all, good laws are desired, useful, and doable Constitution,” Arcinue emphasized. double degree students in economics, as phy, and Political Science, among others. be restated to add the condition that it is explicitly can they be expected to be honest in much greater among the parties involved. o p i n i o n o p i n i o n 4 13 december 2007 13 december 2007 5 THE LASALLIAN THE LASALLIAN Editorial Second Romanticized Ignorance Alphabet Walk this Stand up thoughts Not only has our community become hesitant and antagonistic soup way Much has been written and said about he may have had in rallying people around to change, it has also been exposed to some awfully impractical, CARP has been a the Nov. 30 standoff at The Manila the change he wanted. Raymund Cuesico ineffective, and burdensome systems Paulo Jose Mutuc dismal failure Peninsula staged by Sen. Antonio Trillanes Which brings us to the question of the IV, Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim, and the Magdalo credibility of both the government and mutineers of 2003. Even so, we feel that the military men. On one hand, we have ho owns the world? The of reforming domestic agriculture eccavi.” This was the single word and only a brief review would be necessary believe. there is a need to revisit the viewpoints an administration that, as its treatment of question seems merely an for the welfare of the landless message once sent by a triumphant just to refresh the memory. Recent events have also crossed my raised in the public conversation about journalists during the Manila Pen incident ambitious, open-ended and marginalized. It promised general to his anxious nation upon his This is where we are wrong. There is mind as of late, particularly the supposed W Trillanes and the impact of his actions over shows, values its hold on power above all P thought experiment, but if British to redistribute all agricultural capture of the city of Sind. Literally meaning absolutely no way for this scenario to work Trillanes revolt and the upcoming season the past weeks. Ultimately, we believe these else; on the other, we have an opposition journalist Kevin Cahill (author of the land—whether public or private, “I have sinned,” this method of putting since our rivals have realized that they must of Christmas. I am very disappointed with ideas should provoke vigilant, meaningful, movement—whose more extreme factions surprise 2006 bestseller Who Owns regardless of produce or tenure hidden meaning in what we say or do has pour their hearts out in making an extra the way people have criticized the actions and pragmatic public participation in are represented by the Magdalo—that has, Britain?) is right, then “for the whole arrangements—to more than eight been regarded as creative, pragmatic, and at effort just to remain on top. Sad to say, our of the good senator, as they only see it as politics at a time when disengagement at best, appeared more combative than of history all the land of the planet million farmers in a decade’s time. times trivial. Unfortunately, implementing community has become complacent due another failed attempt to bring down the seems a better, more sensible option. necessary, and, with its disjointed cast of has been owned by one percent or More importantly, it directed the such a strategy also has its own downside, to the years of relative success that it has administration. Instead of giving due credit First, on the appropriateness of characters, has hardly presented itself as a less of the planet’s population.” establishment of a support services as some supposedly knowledgeable people experienced. Reality eventually sets in as time to the degree of fortitude displayed by this the actions of Trillanes et al: While we trustworthy and responsible critical mass. That’s a compelling finding with office to ensure that the farmers thought that this general had actually lost slowly eats on our luck. We all have to realize brave soldier in standing up for the truth understand civil society’s widespread In a way, the continuance of this state very frightening implications. Among retain ownership of the land given the battle and was instead sending back his that there are two basic reasons for such a and voicing out our support for what he condemnation of this “sequel” to the of affairs represents a victory for this other things, it means that the to them, and that these are employed apology. noteworthy performance in the past. One, says, majority have openly said that he must Oakwood mutiny given its impracticality government, with the public believing world has constantly lived with to their best productive use. With Misinterpretation happens when there is our university had a headstart in specializing simply be out of his mind. This situation and logistical weaknesses, these criticisms that disorder and uncertainty are the power, wealth, and resources being roughly half of the population a lack of information or there is no capacity and developing its programs, and two, it has not only reflects the moral degradation that run the risk of overshadowing, if not only foreseeable effects of a change in concentrated in the hands of a very residing in rural areas and about to process this information. There are times been blessed with brilliant students who have pervades in our government but also shows undermining the more important point— leadership. The economy, after all, has small privileged minority. 75 percent of our country’s rural though when people simply have dissenting the talent to win battles for De La Salle. its spread throughout the populace. In that these soldiers were echoing frustrations been performing at its best in a decade, While more prosperous societies poor dependent on farming and opinions. Whatever happens, the intention Not only has our community become addition, the display of force of the current and grievances shared by the majority of the and it is true that this country is gaining may be able to laugh and live with this agriculture, the importance of of the doer remains the primary purpose hesitant and antagonistic to change, it administration is evidence that it has been Filipino people. They were stating—in bold momentum toward achieving steady, rapid fact (a point probably best proven agrarian reform in the Philippines for its execution regardless of what others has also been exposed to some awfully successful in terrorizing the citizenry into and forceful terms perhaps only years of growth. Nonetheless, we wonder how long by Jon Ronson’s amusing Them: cannot be overemphasized. have to say. impractical, ineffective, and burdensome submission. Virtually everyone made an court martial could bring about—legitimate, this veneer of stability will last, and how Adventures with Extremists, featuring Unfortunately, as the Sumilao Every university is concerned with its systems that have pushed us backward effort to comply with the curfew out of unresolved issues that this presidency much political baggage we are willing to yet another British journalist, this farmers’ situation exemplifies, CARP reputation. Upon observation, DLSU-Manila instead of driving us forward. On top of fear of the government, and not respect for has refused to address directly. We share take for economic justifications. As the time on a quest to find the “people did not proceed as planned. While advertises itself as an educational institution this, our community has been very stubborn the law. in their resentment of the blasé attitude public mulls its options amid a general who secretly rule the world”), it’s the number of farms increased having competent faculty, possessing in denying this reality through the thin I had always wanted to give my take this administration has adopted toward state of indecisiveness, we are certain that a painful, familiar, and all too real from 1991 to 2002, the average sufficient facilities, and teaching sound justification offered by our ancient success. on the way people celebrate and perceive extrajudicial killings and the disappearances a more secure economic future need not be reminder of an oppressive colonial landholding of small farmers curricula in an effort to attract students to be To make matters even worse, the university Christmas. Widespread commercialism and of activists; and like them, we aspire for a gained at the expense of transparency and past in the Philippines—a past actually decreased from 2.5 to 2 added to its clientele base. All these thrusts does not recognize the exceptional ability of capitalism have been the driving forces in government that actually embodies the “rule accountability—values which, by the way, whose economic injustices were hectares over the same period. Only are aimed at creating an impression that a some its students as being the sole reason for the adamant presentation of this celebration of law” it so often invokes. underpin not just resilient democracies, but supposed to have been rectified (or 18 percent of all privately-owned diploma from our university certifies quality some of its most prominent achievements. as a season of giving for the lone purpose There is, of course, a reason behind strong economies as well. “May bago sa bagong taon. at the very least, compensated for) land for compulsory acquisition and excellence. As sensible as this situation There is simply too much credit given to of encouraging people to buy, spend, and the insistence on propriety. If in Christian And indeed, as the Brothers have by the Comprehensive Agrarian and redistribution by the DAR has seems, we all have to realize that universities the systems and programs in place. The best splurge on extravagant gifts. From what morality the ends do not justify the means, written, we have become “desensitized Reform Program (CARP) of 1988. been given to CARP beneficiaries, all over the globe continuously strive to evidence that I can present is the fact that I know, the birth of our savior is meant then this is even more so the case in to the stench of corruption,” robbed Abangan!” It’s also an insightful way of seeing as former NEDA Secretary-General outdo each other by tenaciously making several Star Scholars selected each year have to be the fulfillment of a promise and the governance, on whose proper conduct “of the conviction that noble ideals are and thinking about the situation Winnie Monsod has wryly noted. milestone improvements. We should no opted to transfer to schools abroad either at embodiment of hope for all mankind. While depends the welfare of an entire country. worth every sacrifice and that moral of the marching Sumilao farmers, An estimated 26 percent of these longer be surprised that the top universities the beginning of the school year or even after it is true that Christ is the greatest gift to us, How could the citizenry put its fate on the principles must prevail in public life.” who seek to reclaim 144 hectares people has sold, mortgaged, or - DLSU Committee on National in the world are the ones that pioneer in new one or two years stay in our university upon we have to remember why he had to be born hands of mavericks without any qualms In the middle of this moral impasse, we of ancestral land in Bukidnon leased their land, estimates a 2006 and advanced fields and methods, for these realizing its deficiencies. in the first place. Instead of busying ourselves about using violence and putting people challenge Lasallians—particularly those from Norberto Quisimbing Sr. study by the German development are the ones that have both the capacity and In order to gain prestige among our with equaling God’s infinite generosity in harm’s way? These cannot be the ways in student and administrative leadership Issues and Concerns Management and Development agency GTZ. the drive to excel. fellow educational institutions, it is not (which is by the way impossible), we have to of a leader who sees himself as a “moral positions—to redefine meaningful civic Corporation (NQSRMDC). And look where most of the A competitive nature seems to be what enough to be merely at par with the rest of reflect on how to accept Christ’s gift properly alternative” to the status quo. No—what the engagement: to mobilize, to assert, and The farmers’ story is a long and DAR’s budget goes to, shares GTZ: is lacking in our entire community. While the world; we have to beat our competition. and prepare ourselves in the right way. good senator ought to have done instead was to agitate if necessary. We understand awfully complicated one with more “60 percent of total disbursements it is true that we Lasallians still engage in This is where I believe the idea of having Ultimately, we are all left to decide for use his 11-million strong mandate from the that the Brothers, limited by duties and than its fair share of twists and turns, go to salaries of a bloated competition, the hunger to win seems to be a peer review being given so much weight ourselves what to believe in. People have May 2007 elections to reform from within constraints inherent to their vocation, can but the core of the matter is this: On bureaucracy; DAR has 15,000 missing. This is most evident with the typical in the world rankings comes into play. If made the world so subjective such that no the system (as what progressive party-list only do so much; the moral revolution, Aug. 25, 1999, the Supreme Court officials and employees nationwide. way that Lasallians approach competitions. those who are considered to be among the one is wrong anymore. We can brush off groups in the Lower House are doing, to the therefore, is necessarily in the hands of invalidated a compromise ordered The rule for an efficient organization The prevailing belief among our academic top believe that you are better then truly the world rankings as a sham, decry heroism best of their capabilities). Now, because of people in the classroom, in the field, and by former President Fidel Ramos in is that the ratio between personnel circles is that the Lasallian honor student is you must be the best. In the same way, if as stupidity, and celebrate Christmas as a what he has done, he may have permanently in the work place. 1997, which awarded 100 hectares and operating costs should be 40- Reality check more than capable of winning in an academic the competition can honestly remain proud holiday and not a holy day; but looking back, lost the credibility that catapulted him to the The time is now; the moment, ours to to the 137 farmers (collectively, 60 percent not otherwise as in the contest just based on what he has learned in and proclaim they are better, then we have we are simply missing the point. Senate and in the process, whatever chances create and seize. Mapadayonong Panaghiusa sa case of DAR.” Is it any wonder class. There is no additional training required, not presented sufficient proof to make them mga Lumad Alang sa Damlag or then that about three of the four MAPALAD) and gave 44 hectares million “beneficiaries” (if they can 2007 was a year of celebration Administration are a healthy discontent with been fundamentally superficial, whether to NQSRMDC for a proposed even be called as such) receive no The for DLSU-Manila, as the hype over the the way things are, and, more importantly, a organizational or procedural. In this development plan. (The MAPALAD technology and support services UAAP Men’s Basketball Championship and willingness to improve. regard, a thought is worth bearing in mind: An engineering student’s perspective farmers were previously plantation despite the clear legal mandate for LaSallian the successful participation of the SINAG The World University Ranking done Research will not really progress unless Social workers for Del Monte Philippines, their provision? The bastion of issue-oriented critical thinking solar car in the World Solar Car Challenge by THES-QS is one the most widely students and faculty in our university will under an agreement between Del Suffice it to say, CARP has permeated our halls and was echoed in recognized university rankings in the world, have a genuine interest in seeking new distortion I think the standardized class hours will not work, especially in the 13 december 2007 Monte and Quisimbing, on the land been a dismal, costly failure—which all our conversations. But just when the and despite receiving severe criticism, its knowledge, developing modern technology, College of Engineering, where there is almost always never enough being contested.) With the farmers makes its extension beyond 2008 a community thought that the year would popularity has continued to soar due to and making life better for humanity. As Ed i t o r in Ch i e f Paulo Jose Mutuc Jennerson Ong stripped of their titles, NQSRMDC questionable proposition. At this end in a bang, it did—though not with the constant refinement of its methods mentioned by University Fellow Dr. Allan time. As s o c i a t e Ed i t o r Alejandro Almendras IV proceeded to sell the land to San point, we need to start exploring the the jubilant fireworks that accompany to render it more reliable and valid over Bernardo in his professorial lecture last Ma n a g i n g Ed i t o r Josef Aaron Lim Miguel Foods for the establishment viable alternatives to DAR and the success, but rather a loud crashing noise that time. The main importance given to these school year, the leaders of the university Un i v e r s i t y Of f i ce r In Ch a r g e Raymund Cuesico of a piggery in 2002—without CARP; the challenge, specifically, forebodes more difficult times to come. rankings is that these provide means to have an obligation to push this institution an’t fit everything in your schedule? with no breaks in between. These scenarios longer be synthesized properly and will be Me n a g e r i e Ed i t o r Angela Velasco having taken any steps toward that is to arrive at a successful land The Times Higher Education promote universities around the world for to greater heights. Because let’s not fool Having sleepless nights and absolutely will definitely hinder a student from eating done merely for the sake of passing. Lectures Sp o r t s Of f i ce r In Ch a r g e Camille Bianca Pinto promised agro-industrial complex reform scheme within democratic Supplement–Quacquarelli Simmons a growing number of students who choose ourselves: The reality is that we are very no social life due to studies? These decent meals, especially science students, in will not be studied properly with less time Ar t & Gr a p h i c s Ed i t o r Carmela Prado C (consisting of a development parameters (which did not happen (THES-QS) World University Rankings put to study abroad, hence the emphasis on far from reaching the status of other scenes are very familiar. Living in a world a four-day class week. for studying given potential exam-scheduling Ph o t o Ed i t o r Jennerson Ong academy, an agro-industrial park, in the institutional agrarian reform DLSU-Manila at 519th place, with a score internationalization. universities who have consistently ranked where there are three terms a year (hence less There will be less time for students to problems. Thus, appreciation and a deep Ci r cu l a t i o n s Ma n a g e r Stacy Ybud tourist and recreational areas, and success stories of South Korea of 23.9 out of a 100. This catastrophic Being a Catholic university is said to be high in the World University Rankings, such time to stay in class and understand lesson), finish their required tasks, and this will, of understanding of the facts and theories for Of f i ce Ma n a g e r Krizia Martha Carriaga let’s now see how standardized 1.5 hour course, result in a more stressful academic subjects will be harder to achieve. Taking a housing facility), and given the and Taiwan) and in ways that will decline should be sufficient enough to in conflict with the rankings as well. The as Harvard, Cambridge, and Oxford. Department of Agrarian Reform’s enable beneficiary households— shatter any illusion of greatness that is being values that Catholic universities focus on are DLSU-Manila has also missed out on classes fit in the current scheme of things. environment. into consideration the compressed schedule, Un i v e r s i t y Joyce Anne Alfonso, Creizelle Francisco, Criscel Lamsin, Loraine Meeting only four days a week means And if quizzes are strategically scheduled it won’t be surprising if Lasallians are not (DAR) Administrative Order 20, especially in Northern and Western Saguinsin, Alliv Samson, Francesca Sta. Ana harbored by the community. After all, it allegedly not very much in congruence with taking advantage of linkages it has with which prohibits the conversion of Mindanao—to significantly improve was only a year ago when we bannered our the criteria or the measures of THES-QS. other universities such as Osaka University, more school hours per day for everyone. This on a Friday, which “ideally” should be a free able to study properly on a weekday night, lessens one’s free time, as professors usually day, the four-day week effectively becomes thanks to extreme tiredness and information prime agricultural land. their living standards, which I think Me n a g e r i e Jemimah Ang, Marie Beatrice Angeles, Marielle Antonio, Nazrin “achievement” of becoming the highest Though DLSU-Manila may consider this a Tokyo Institute of Technology, and the (Before my next point, a brief should definitely involve scrapping Camille Castro, Jensen Bryan Ching, Nancy Chua, Ali Caronongan, Rosanna establish a lot of make-up classes on a Friday, a regular five-day class week where students overload. ranked private university in our country—a valid argument, universities like Katholieke National University of Singapore—which digression appears necessary: stock distribution as an alternative Guintivano, Jabin Landayan, Sam Modina, Yasmin Najib, Elvin Ngo, Darcy fact no longer true today. Universiteit Leuven (61st in the ranking) all belong to the top tier of the world based on my experience. To top that, more will not have an extra day of rest. In terms Add here extremely tiring and time- Reburiano, Carmela Sioco Ateneo, to their credit, has taken to allocating the land. (It must be A cloud of disbelief has engulfed easily prove this argument wrong. rankings. These linkages should, in essence, exams will likely be scheduled on a Friday— of academic requirements, the individual consuming laboratory classes where hands- hence, overlapping exam schedules should student will have to deal with a larger pile on experimentation and exposure are the lead in supporting the Sumilao pointed out that despite an increase Sp o r t s Michelle Andrews, Philip Andrew Ang, Johannes Chiong, Ramon Carlo our campus, for just when the university Unfortunately for DLSU, the goal of be the bridge that will help the University be more frequent. This, of course, is a very of tasks to finish in less time: one lab report required, and you have a recipe for even more march to Malacañang. Though we in income among families that have Cruz, Julius Joseph Fabreag, Jed Aureus Gonzales, Celine Anne Hernandez, thought that it was doing everything right, becoming a research university may not cross the great research divide and improve have indeed largely missed out on received land from CARP, poverty Ma. Linda Provido, Michael Gerard Sy unwelcome development for engineering per laboratory class, about three exams, and cramming in a trimestral schedule. it finds out that some credible people be so close after all. Efforts so far have its status as a global university. Simply helping the movement, perhaps incidence among these households think otherwise. Even with the supposed benchmarking ourselves against them majors like myself, who normally encounter research papers all due every week. Given all these facts, I think the Ph o t o Kimberly Go, Erick Jao, Alvin Lau, Ian Meru the fact that BALAOD Mindanaw’s remain high at 45 percent in 2000; declaration of the university to shift toward would readily result in a great improvement, three exams a day. Besides, laboratory classes Overall, having a standardized four- standardized class hours will not work, “The proper attitudes occupy three hours a unit per week—this day class week, with Friday as “hell day” especially in the College of Engineering, Executive Director Arlene Bag-ao for non-recipients, there were even Ar t & Gr a p h i c s Samantha Ang, Angela Kristine Garcia, Frank Herrera, Paul becoming research-oriented, efforts have if done properly. means that in addition to quizzes and make- when all exams and make-up sessions will where there is almost always never enough is a graduate of De La Salle should more poor families in 2000 compared Matthew Jiao, Sheryl Lagrosas, Beatrice Ong, Abdul Rafi Onos, John Ian Roman, not been able to produce results. to have on the part Although the THES-QS results this be a slight consolation to the critical to 1990, as per estimates of Celia Allen Silva, Brian Christian Uy up classes, consecutive laboratory classes be scheduled, spells extreme stress. I’m time. If the existing schedules already require The University has definitely focused year cannot be directly compared to mass of progressive, civic-minded Reyes of the Philippine Institute for on matters that apparently only have value of the Administration last year’s results due to changes in the should also be expected. This will inevitably not exaggerating when I say that students make-up classes and exams on a weekday Se n i o r Co r r e s p o n d e n t s Christine Mendoza, Candace Daphne Ting Lasallians on campus. Still, our Development Studies.) to those within it. So what is DLSU really evaluation process, these can still serve cause some health problems among students, collapsing and fainting are to be expected night, how much more will the standardized are a healthy I suppose. next term, along with diminished academic schedule require? Speeding up laboratory detachment from the issue is a At present, though it seems Ad v i s e r Dr. Noelle Leslie dela Cruz missing out? as good basis for universities to better Eight to eleven in the morning, followed performance and understanding among classes and putting them all on one day are loss for our academic community the government will get away with St u d e n t Pu b l i ca t i o n s Co o r d i n a t o r Rosanna Luz Valerio Much criticism has been hurled by our their standards. The process has actually which, to remind those who think conveniently ignoring the Sumilao Di r ec t o r o f St u d e n t Pu b l i ca t i o n s Fritzie Ian Paz-De Vera discontent with the by 11:30 to 2:30 on a Friday… What an Lasallians. not solutions. community at the way THES-QS changed improved this year, making it more reliable otherwise, sees itself as a “resource farmers and sidestepping the real its methodology and criteria, claiming compared to last year. With that in mind, ingenious idea. Living a life where lab classes Papers and deadlines, quizzes and failures, So this coming trimester, will you be able way things are, and, are part of your to-do list brings with it plagiarism and copyright infringement are to fit everything you need to do into your for Church and country.”) issues at stake, it won’t be soon The LaSallian has its editorial office at 502 Bro. Gabriel Connon Hall, De La Salle University, that it was not compatible with our own this may be an indication that DLSU- hunger and discomfort. Imagine wearing a some of the things a cramming student has schedule? This new system will only give For all intents and purposes, before a breaking point is reached. 2401 Taft Avenue, Manila 1004. TLS can be contacted through telephone number 5244611 loc. vision and mission. This may be a good more importantly, Manila’s 2006 ranking may have been just CARP, enacted as the country’s In this regard, maybe we have yet sign: that the University has enough self- a statistical lucky break. lab gown and exposing yourself to harmful to deal with. Rushed papers and exams will students even more sleepless nights, promote 701, or through its e-mail address, [email protected]. All contributions are subject to a willingness to fumes while rushing to finish a laboratory be more frequent. With lab reports and other more cramming, and lessen understanding of fifth land reform law, was crafted to see the last dark vestiges of editing for clarity or space. None of the contents of this publication may be reprinted without confidence to not simply crumble in the In the end, the lesson to be learned to finally make good the Philippine Hacienda Luisita. face of disappointment, but despite this, the from this is that we can—and should exercise on an empty stomach, or having technical papers waiting to be done side by information in the classroom. the express written permission of the Editorial Board. government’s longstanding promise I pray we never do. proper attitudes to have on the part of the improve.” be—better than advertised. classes that start at 8 am and end at 6 pm side faster-paced lectures, papers will no Expect mediocre results next term. o p i n i o n u n i v e r s i t y p a i n t w i t h l i g h t 7 6 / 13 december 2007 13 december 2007 THE LASALLIAN THE LASALLIAN

Shaft Move Statement from page 1 upholding the values of honesty, integrity and truthfulness in public life and civil society. In that art We should make a choice, becuase even though we think statement, we affirmed the principle that moral ascendancy is a critical ingredient to effective what we do might not affect a lot of people, our small efforts governance, and warned that a leadership without moral authority cannot realistically command the respect of a nation. Today, two years later, we are alarmed and ashamed that the situation has Josef Aaron Lim should eventually make a difference. increasingly worsened.

Step down Mrs. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. This national situation? The signs of moral disintegration abound: is enough. Most of the people of the Philippines are very November 29 marked another historical event: A far from the realities of a good life. The government • the escalating number of acts of violence against journalists, leftists and members of the legal military uprising led by Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim and Sen. does not offer free education in well-maintained and opposition, which according to a report of the UN Human Rights Council representative have Antonio Trillanes IV took place right after both men well-funded schools. Medical care and medicines been perpetrated by some elements in the military; along with other military officers walked out of their remain expensive and are in short supply. People suffer hearing at the Makati Regional Trial Court. From the from poverty, and a considerable number experience • unresolved anomalies in government, including the aborted ZTE-NBN deal and the fertilizer courtroom, these mean walked to Ayala Avenue and as involuntary hunger (according to a recent survey). It scam, which involve billions of pesos in public funds; we all know by now, took over The Manila Peninsula makes you think: are we nearing sub-saharan Africa’s Hotel and conducted a press conference. living standards, where poverty, sickness, and death are • the large amounts of cash distributed in brown bags to some lawmakers at Malacañang just Lim was calling for the resignation of the president, everyday occurrences? as impeachment moves were being initiated and firmed up in Congress and the facile efforts to for several reasons. He mentioned the many acts of What are we doing? hide the truth about their origins and purpose; corruption that the president is allegedly responsible Can the Filipino people really do something? Is for: the NBN-ZTE deal, “Joc-Joc” Bolante’s case, and “People Power” the only way? How can apathy really • concerted efforts among some lawmakers and government officials to block attempts at the Hello Garci tapes. Arroyo, he said, has continually be abolished in our society? establishing truth and securing accountability; cheated the Filipino people, not only through her I do not really have the list of answers to these administration, but in the elections as well. questions and am looking for answers. But this is the • the corruption of the electoral system as manifested in various anomalies related to the last I was once able to talk with the driver of the taxi reason why I think Pres. Arroyo should step down; national elections. I was in on my way home. this is my way to do away with my indifference and to He shared with me how difficult it really is to earn speak my mind. The net effect of these, together with past anomalies, has been to further undermine confidence a decent living in the Philippines. I pity people like To quote Trillanes of Magdalo, “Gloria ba o in practically every institution of government. Widespread despair with these existing institutions him—especially when I think that the government is pagbabago?” I echo his call for you to answer his can only spawn violence and increasing military adventurism. We need only think of the fiasco at a major cause of his hardship. The government should question, whatever your answer maybe. We should the Manila Peninsula on 29 November 2007 to see that this is so. at least provide the basic services needed by the people make a choice, because even though we think what What is even more lamentable is the degree to which many Filipinos have become desensitized and lead in eradicating poverty, but it seems as if it is we do might not affect a lot of people, our small to the stench of corruption because of the unending stream of government-related scams, cover- the one causing the poverty. efforts should eventually make a difference. It’s like ups and scandals. The unwillingness of the public to engage in peaceful public exercises of moral There are many insights you can pick up the Archdiocese of Manila’s Pondo ng Pinoy drive outrage and to support calls for government accountability bespeak a weary cynicism and loss of from talking to taxi drivers. I got to ride another of collecting 25 centavos, which was born out of the hope in all possibility of meaningful change that is especially alarming for us as educators. taxi—this time manned by a very pessimistic driver. He belief that little contributions pooled together should This retreat from civic responsibility bodes ill for the future. This is perhaps our generation’s kept on saying, “Hay naku! ‘Di pa rin boundary. Wala be large enough to matter. greatest crime: to rob our people, especially our youth, of the conviction that noble ideals are worth na talagang pag-asa ang bayan na ito! (I haven’t even There are so many groups in the country every sacrifice and that moral principles must prevail in public life. reached my quota for the day; there’s really no hope encouraging people to be heard, to be more active For these reasons, even if it amounts to no more than a voice crying out in the wilderness, we, for this country)” Hearing him say this made me very and participate in the governance of this nation. One the De La Salle Brothers of the Philippines, feel the need to proclaim once again the same values frustrated. In the end, he said I’m lucky. Yes, maybe of the groups I know is Dakila Ka, Pilipinas. This is a we espoused in 2005: truth, justice, honesty and integrity. Without these, no government can be I am, but we all have our share in the difficulties this group started by Arvin “Tado” Jimenez, Ronnie Lazaro, trusted, and where there is no trust, governance degenerates into bribery and intimidation. country faces. Buwi Meneses of Parokya ni Edgar, and Lourd de Veyra We join in the call of courageous religious leaders and of proven men and women of con- And so with people like these, how could the of Radioactive Sago Project—a group of artists who science who seek a moral revolution. But if such a call is to become more than mere lip-service, president say that the country is improving and slowly joined their individual advocacies of helping the nation. we must translate it into effective action on behalf of the values we espouse, keeping in mind the rising out of poverty? Does she really have any idea? And Dakila wants to start tapping students now. This is legal framework of the Constitution. We call on men and women of goodwill to act now to make Has she ever sat beside a common worker—like the the chance for students to be active and be involved. real the change they want to see. two taxi drivers I spoke with—to really know the This is our time. Kill apathy. To all parents, teachers, pastors, religious and all those charged with the moral formation of youth: God has given us the extraordinary privilege of mentoring the young and laying the foun- dations of our country’s future. Let us not betray God’s trust. Let us teach the young that what is happening today is wrong. Let us teach them that a life without moral virtue or principle is no life at Mediocre excellence all, but a subhuman existence unworthy of their dignity as children of God. Let us teach them that Brownian we are all answerable to God for what we have made, not just of our lives, but also of our nation. Let us teach them, as one man showed us years ago, that the Filipino is worth dying for. motion If we are truly deserving of the right to be proud of our To all Filipino workers here and abroad, farmers and fisherfolk, men and women in business, school, we must first mold ourselves into students that we entrepreneurs and professionals: your efforts and earnings sustain the economic and political life of our country. In solidarity with one another, demand more from this government. Come together Angela Velasco outselves can be proud of. to hold this country’s leadership accountable for their stewardship of the taxes you pay. Demand that every centavo be properly allocated and accounted for. Demand transparency and fairness in all he recent release of THES-QS rankings worse—several failures. But in the long run, our brains business transactions. Consider the long-term goals and voice your displeasure at lost opportunities brought shock and confusion among many work to a level we least expect. After all, we are in a and the abuses that squander our nation’s wealth to the detriment of all, especially the poor. Lasallians. The drop from a 392 to 519 rank university not to just claim easy 4.0’s but rather, to To all artists, poets, writers and media practitioners: you are the vanguards of culture. You bear T the great responsibility of ennobling the soul and creating a culture supportive of truth, justice and seemed too sudden and unbelievable. After months of deserve them. I myself admit that I felt more satisfied gloating about having a higher ranking than “that other managing a 2.0 in my “terror” major last term than that respect for human dignity. Focus on this task. Create visions and words that inspire and move our university,” and even childishly flaunting this during a 4.0 I “gained” from sleeping through one of my minor people to live up to what is best in them. basketball game—we are suddenly “stripped” of the subjects. For some, maybe this may sound like the extra, To all our men and women in uniform: our hearts go out to you for the ready sacrifices you “right” to show off. However, are we truly deserving extra mile. But it simply takes the desire to learn and have made again and again in the service of our nation. We acknowledge with gratitude the self- of this right? discipline ourselves in accepting a challenge rather than lessness many of you have shown again and again. Remember that you are called to be defenders The most obvious reactions people express toward just going for the simplest pass. of the Constitution and protectors of human rights. Please do not fail in this charge. Let it be this change are dismay and shock. Unfortunately, very Aside from this, there is also the tendency to clear, however, that we do not condone military adventurism for it is inconsistent with the basic few students actually feel humbled. Instead of asking “abuse” the wide range of extra-curriculars available. democratic values we hold dear. why there was a sudden change, they are too concerned Sadly, there are those who only take on so many projects To all civil servants, legislators and government workers: we believe that you also dream of with how the then lower-ranked university will react to lengthen their resume. Or if not, to strengthen their a better nation for our children. We beg you to resist the culture of corruption. Help us build a to all this. Biases and competition aside, are we really image for more votes during student elections. A large future full of hope for our children. concerned with getting down to the real issue behind number of activities may mean a number of skills, but To all our alumni and alumnae: we encourage you to take cognizance of the education you this? Or are we just concerned with losing our gloating one’s commitment to each activity is what allows us have received from La Salle all these years. As dark clouds hover in the horizon, we challenge you “rights” as one of the most prestigious universities to acquire the right skills, valuable lessons, and life- to and make a difference. Take heart from your fellow alumnus, Jose W. Diokno, and his vision of in the country? Also, is a place below the top 100 an changing experiences. Enough commitment allows the “a free nation, where men and women and children from all regions and with all kinds of talents achievement in itself, or merely a way for us to find person to grow through one’s time in the organization. may find truth and play and sing and laugh and dance and love without some form of international recognition? Involving yourself in too many things could lead to fear…” There’s no denying the euphoria many students feel abandoning several of these activities—so why bother from the rankings and accreditations our university has signing up for them in the first place? What matters is We end this statement by sharing with you, our fellow Filipinos, this prayer of hope as we, gained throughout the years. Such titles and numbers not how much one has done but how much one has the De La Salle Brothers look to 2011, the 100th year of the Lasallian ministry of education in are the most concrete means for everyone to truly feel given to one’s work. the Philippines: proud of their Lasallian name and education. If we These are simple acts that, unfortunately, are difficult are truly deserving of the right to be proud of our to observe among many students. Even more tragic Lord, let me be the change I want to see school, we must first mold ourselves into students that is the fact that students do not see the faults in these To do with strength and wisdom we ourselves can be proud of. Yes, we are all part of a attitudes. They simply seek a solution that simply gets All that needs to be done prestigious institution. But can we honestly say that we things done, regardless of the consequences it has on have contributed something worth being proud of to one’s personal development. If we are to truly uphold the And become the hope that I can be. further such prestige? Lasallian name, then we must go back to the basics. We Set me free from my fears and hesitations. Such contributions do not have to go as far as must not forget that we are here to pursue an education. Grant me courage and humility. affecting the entire Lasallian community. The extra mile And in order to make the most of this pursuit, we must Fill me with spirit to face the challenge is not needed in this case. In fact, most students need be willing to challenge our potentials and continue to just the opposite. Many of us are guilty of the “easy push ourselves. Only then can we feel true pride for our And start the change I want to see. 4.0” syndrome, which reveals itself among students university’s reputation. Education is the foundation we Today, I start the change I want to see. during online enrolment. Common conversation starters build on, from which we allow ourselves to evolve. It Even if I’m not the light, I can be the spark. consist of asking for the infamous names among only takes simple steps to reap the benefits of what has In faith, service and communion departments and those which simply take a small effort been defined as world class education. And although Let us start the change we want to see, to pass. What’s even more disappointing is the fact we have gone off the top of one rankings list, the more that students insist on carrying on with this attitude. important concern should be the student’s constant The change that begins in me. How many students out there would not go through pursuit of excellence. Ultimately, what matters is we work the extra effort in avoiding a terror professor’s class? on what we can bring to the world, rather than how we Some of us pay the price of this with near failures, or are compared to the rest of it. u n i v e r s i t y 13 december 2007 9 THE LASALLIAN NATIONAL SITUATIONER “Strong Republic”: Power, The Peso, and Prosperity Politics under Pres. Arroyo by Crezzeile Francisco, Samar Khan, And Raymund Cuesico

PESO-DOLLAR EXCHANGE RATE

he Philippine economy has had a bad history of dealing with political instability. Makati Siege P 42.00 From the time of the downfall of the Marcos regime, market forces have normally overreacted even to mere rumors of any threat to the government. T P 43.00 Batasan Pambansa Bombing Events in the past like coup d’états, rallies, and mass action movements have caused Estrada Pardon the exchange rate to run amok, the stock market to fall, and investors to stay away P 44.00 Glorietta Explosion from the Philippines. Over the past three months though, the same macroeconomic indicators have P 45.00 been telling a different story. Despite the onslaught of concrete threats to the political stability of the nation, the Philippine economy has remained not only stable, but even P 46.00 ZTE Broadband Deal continued its upward trend. Surprisingly, even in instances where there are sudden mild P 47.00 dips, in just about a week or so key Philippine economic indicators are able to register Day itself After a day After a week at levels above the pre-event status quo. Infographic BY KEVIN ANG

Trillanes’ Makati Rebellion (November conflicting expert opinions from both the greenback. has translated to lower interest rates on concern for the Philippines, as it can lead 29) government and the private sector. Last December, the Peso averaged peso instruments, higher stock prices, and to some large negative impacts (such as While the Peso held its own by P49.40 against the Dollar. Its appreciation eventually, a stronger Peso. decreases in exports and tourist arrivals) Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV, along with eventually gaining a net of 2 centavos one began in January 2007, and was brought Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) if its pace is not controlled. In this regard, his co-accused mutineers, walked out of week after falling by 11 centavos, the Index about by many factors. Now, the Peso is Governor Amando M. Tetangco Jr. told some sectors have suggested the imposition his court hearing, and marched toward suffered heavy losses amounting to a total considered the 20th top currency in the reporters in an interview that the Peso’s of fixed exchange rate on OFW remittances the Manila Peninsula Hotel, where he of 104.63 points, primarily due to investor world and the best performing currency appreciation also minimizes “price pressures in order to cushion the Peso’s unfavorable issued an open declaration condemning anxiety over Ayala Corporation—one of in Asia in terms of appreciation against from major food, nonfood and fuel items.” effect on OFW families—which collectively the current administration and calling for the country’s biggest companies. the dollar. Remittances from about From January to December, the roughly P2 stand to lose about P128 billion in incomes the establishment of a new government. 12 million Overseas Filipino Workers increase in fuel prices was tempered by the annually given the Peso’s unabated rise. Judging from history, the ensuing standoff (OFWs) worldwide have helped fuel this decline of the Peso-Dollar exchange rate. In the same way, experts are encouraging between government forces and the appreciation. (OFW remittances have also Clearly, the Peso’s appreciation has OFWs to place their money in high interest- Magdalo group should have easily shook the the ensuing standoff helped boost productivity in domestic been important in reducing inflation: earning investments. It is estimated that the country’s economy, given that it occurred manufacturing, where a percent increase in Empirical studies have shown that a P1 peso appreciated by 15 percent against the at the heart of the Philippines’ central between government forces sectoral productivity has been found to lead gain against the US Dollar means a 0.043- dollar in 2007. If a US Dollar investment business district and the very high likelihood and the Magdalo group to a half percent Peso appreciation.) percentage point reduction in the average would gain roughly 14 to 15 percent of an actual gunfight. Yet the following More dollars are expected to flow into general price increase. Imports have also yearly, for example, then Filipinos with business day (Dec. 3), the Philippine Peso should have easily shook the the country in 2008, as OFW remittances become cheaper as a result of the domestic Dollar-denominated incomes can earn in appreciated by 44 centavos against the US country’s economy, given are predicted to grow by five percent from currency’s gains. Philippine Pesos and compensate for the Dollar, and the Philippine Stock Exchange this year’s $14-billion projection. The depreciating Dollar. Index (PSEi) went up by 22. 63 points. that it occurred at the heart projected slowdown of the US economy, And even when the country’s economy The upward trend continued even days Trends of concern furthermore, is expected to decrease the seems on the right track, critical questions later, with the Index adding 25.82 points of the Philippines’ central The other side of the Peso appreciation, value of the dollar in the coming months. remain about the sustainability of the two business days after the event and the however, is the decline in OFWs’ disposable business district and the very Philippines’ growth and the stability of its Peso gaining a further 19 centavos after incomes. This could continue even further, economic fundamentals (especially in light one week. high likelihood of an actual Fundamentally sound? as restraining the Peso’s rapid advance is of historically low spending for education h Quietly, the macroeconomy has been proving to be more expensive than ever. gunfight. Yet the following and infrastructure). In fact, the Senate, Bombing of the Batasang Pambansa doing very well for the past three years: (Just recently, the BSP recorded its largest Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth— loss in a decade from intervening in the through its Committee on Economic (November 13) business day (Dec. 3), the expected to reach 6.6 percent for 2007—has foreign exchange market, according to the Affairs headed by Loren Legarda, plans to The Philippine House of Philippine Peso appreciated been steadily increasing, and is a far cry Philippine Daily Inquirer.) conduct an investigation on the continuous Representatives’ own building was bombed, from the 3.2 percent posted during the Exporters have also been hurt by the appreciation of peso. causing the death of Basilan Representative by 44 centavos against the beginning of Arroyo’s presidency in 2001. appreciation despite the lowering of pier In view of these issues, the continual Wahab Akbar and four other individuals. US Dollar, and the Philippine Unemployment has hovered around 7 to 8 fees and the removal of the travel tax. This decline of the Peso-Dollar exchange rate This bold act of terrorism right at the percent over the same time period, since year, exporters have cut growth estimates to does cut both ways. That is, while it does legislature’s doorstep should have caused Stock Exchange Index the introduction of a revised statistical between 4.5 to 5.5 percent from an original engender improved international confidence extensive economic ripples under normal (PSEi) went up by 22. 63 definition. The continuous growth of forecast of 10 percent. in the local economy, it simultaneously circumstances. A day after though, the Peso the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) In a survey conducted by the Social endangers export competitiveness and the appreciated by 28 centavos against the U.S. points. industry, in particular, is anticipated to lead Weather Station (SWS) between Sept. 2 middle class’ living standards. Dollar, and the PSEi gained an outstanding to higher future growth and, alongside to 5, about 10 million Filipino families or In the end, while the exact magnitude 73.09 points. The Index further gained ZTE – National Broadband Network the emergence of a remittance-supported roughly 57 percent or the population said of the Arroyo administration’s impact to 13.57 points two days after, while the Peso Deal (September 11) middle class, to increased consumption. that the Peso’s gain against the US Dollar the Philippines’ recent economic success tempered a bit, losing 32 centavos from the Allegations of corruption have been As mentioned, the Arroyo administration have not changed their way of living. The remains uncertain, there is no doubt that pre-event level. known to bring down governments not has successfully tamed the country’s budget same survey showed that five million it is being used by those in power to evade only here in the Philippines, but also in deficit since it assumed power. From a high families lived better when the exchange rate questions of corruption, quell criticisms The Estrada Pardon (October 25) other countries. Despite the fact that this of P210.7 billion in 2002, the government was about P45, and that only two million of poor governance, and instill a sense Six years of political imprisonment deal involved $329 million and that bribery is on track to meet its P63 billion projection responded optimistically to the peso gain. of certainty among risk-averse investors. ended with the granting of a presidential was confirmed, the only “sacrifice” the for 2007 after posting a P64.8 billion deficit This seems a classic case of a mouth (Peso Nonetheless, one thing is clear: What this pardon to former President Joseph Estrada, Arroyo administration had to do was letting in 2006. If the Peso gains P5 billion for appreciation) biting the hand that feeds it administration has done for the economy one of the foremost critics of the Arroyo go of an aging Commission on Elections every unit appreciation of the Peso, as (OFW income streams). is an indication that it does not plan to administration and the perennial recipient Chairman who was set to retire. per estimates of Department of Finance Financial analysts have observed that concede power to anybody or anything else of accusations every time a destabilization The Peso initially lost 24 centavos, Secretary Gary Teves, then the national the appreciation of the Peso should be a anytime soon. plot crops up. Even though speculation but rebounded to post a net gain of 46 government should acquire budgetary of an all-out people mobilization by the centavos one week after. The PSEi displayed flexibility of about P35 to P40 billion in political opposition to launch a formal bid a similar reaction by first falling 6.83 points, the near future. GDP Unemployment Budget to unseat Pres. Arroyo occupied the minds before posting a 38.10 point increase on the Moreover, with every unit appreciation Year of many, the Peso gained 7 centavos and following day. of the peso lowering the national Growth Rate Deficit IN MILLIONS OF PESOS the stock index gained six points. After government’s budget deficit by P5.4 billion, one week of relatively quiet gatherings, the Power to the Peso there should be more funds available for upward economic trend continued, with the The Philippine Peso might appreciate to roads and communications development, 2001 3.20% 9.80% 147,023 PSEi jumping by 28.67 points and the Peso as much as P38 by 2008. That is according to as well as for the provision of basic social appreciating by 11 centavos. 2002 4.60% 10.20% 210,741 a BusinessWorld article published last Nov. services such as health and education. 22, which also predicted that the exchange (Almost half of the Philippines’ debt is 2003 4.50% 10.10% 199,868 Glorietta 2 Explosion (October 19) rate could likely reach P41.50 against the US denominated in foreign currencies.) Even if final reports on the incident Dollar by the end of this year. The government’s successful 2004 6.10% 10.90% 187,057 show no evidence that the explosion in Demand for the dollar primarily management of the budget deficit is one 2005 5.10% 7.40%* 146,778 this popular mall in Makati was part of any originates from importers and the Filipinos explanation why the Peso and the PSEi effort to destabilize the government, the who invest and travel abroad. However, have been unusually resilient as of late. 2006 5.40% 7.30% 64,791 speculation (and eventually, the conclusion) imports for this year fell, and demand for In 2005, the Expanded Value Added Tax by the Philippine National Police (PNP) dollars by Filipino tourists and investors Law was approved to help raise more tax 2007 6.60% 7.80% 41,488** that the blast was caused by methane gas declined. These factors, along with the revenue in light of news that a “fiscal crisis” or diesel fumes adversely affected foreign Dollar’s steady depreciation over the was looming. This measure led to what perception of the management of Philippine * Unemployment statistics are consistent with the revised 2005 definition past few months, have contributed to a continues to be a very positive outlook ** As of October 2007 companies. This was compounded by stronger domestic currency relative to the for the Philippine economy, which in turn Sources: Asian Development Bank and the Philippine Labor Force Surveys DID YOU KNOW... season filler ...that Christmas trees are edible? “There's nothing sadder in this u n i v e r s i t y Many parts of pines, spruces, and firs can world than to awake Christmas 10 13 december 2007 be eaten. The needles are a good source of morning and not be a child.” THE LASALLIAN Vitamin C. Pine nuts, or pine cones, are also - Erma Bombeck a good source of nutrition. (http://www.rachardpettinger.com/funny_ revised from page 1 (http://www.corsinet.com/braincandy/ POPTOWN xmastrivia.html) quotes/funny_christmas_quotes) The actual guidelines of the peer review being excellent in their field. Results are then tors (Thomson) to Scopus, which is cur- DLSU ADMU NUS TOKYO U HARVARD also reveal a lot about the very nature of the compiled, and the universities are ranked rently the largest abstract and citation data- Number of students THE LASALLIAN survey. THES-QS statistics show that out accordingly. base of research literature and quality web 30,000 of the 190,000 members of the academe sources. “Scopus covers a larger number 20,000 FROG-ified Airi beltran alien me christmas Gianna Li that were pre-selected and sent e-mails for Questioning Internationalization of papers and journals overall, leading to 10,000 the peer review, only around 1,600 actually greater representation from lesser known Number of “We would like to look at the specific international students gave their replies. This very low turnout is universities and institutions from academic 5,000 ratings of DLSU, which we have not yet re- Number of faculty actually a marked improvement, considering ceived from THES-QS, and find out where systems with less emphasis on publication,” 1,000 that even less had replied in the previous we rated low and why--then ask ourselves if the THES-QS research team explained. Sco- years. For 2007, there were a total of 3,069 internationalization, which will surely cost pus also includes works written in languages 500 responses compiled—majority of which the university a lot, is as much of value to us other than English. The citation period was Full time equivalent came in the technology, natural science, and as it is for external organizations and com- also reduced to only five years from the social science disciplines. panies like the THES-QS,” says Chancellor previous ten—meaning universities have to Each peer reviewer is first asked to Dr. Carmelita Quebengco. keep themselves up-to-date and constantly identify the specific specialty where the This year’s results have been said to produce quality research output. DLSU ADMU NUS academe is familiar with. Afterwards, the be reflective of the degree with which reviewer has to mark which particular re- internationalization has helped boost the Accompanying thoughts $4,500 Average International gions and sub-regions they are able to rate student fees ($) rankings of top performing schools, as this The THES-QS team has identified only $4,500 breezy johna baylon accurately. Finally, each has to list down at trend was observed by the proponents of five specific areas to base the rankings on. $4,000 most 30 universities that they consider as the THES-QS rankings. These are the fields of Arts and Humanities, In comparison to local peers, DLSU- Engineering and Information Technology, $3,500 Manila actually has more international Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, Life Sci- students, but lags behind Ateneo de Ma- ences, and Biomedicine. In perspective, $3,000 “We would like to look nila University in terms of outbound and DLSU-Manila offers courses in these areas $2,500 at the specific ratings of inbound exchange students. Looking at of expertise, but is relatively better known the criteria’s breakdown, only a total of for its strong business programs. Noticeably $2,404 $2,000 $2,336 DLSU, which we have 10 percent of the score is tied up with though, business as a field was omitted from not yet received from internationalization, five percent is for the the judging criteria, for unknown reasons. international faculty score, and another five The underlying consequence is that those THES-QS, and find out percent for the international student score. participating in the survey have to work where we rated low and Another sign of the increasing emphasis on within the limitations and rules set forth internationalization was the entry of new by THES-QS. DLSU NUS TOKYO U why--then ask ourselves universities in both the survey process and It can be recalled that DLSU-Manila queer corner jv uy in the published top places. In fact, 27 new used the results of the 2006 THES-QS to if internationalization, 35,000 universities from 13 different countries have advertise the university as the highest ranked Total Number of Papers 34,830 which will surely cost broken into the top 200 for the first time. private university in the country, but given 30,000 A different perspective of internation- this year’s result, the MCO has decided on the university a lot, is alization can also be derived from the nature a different marketing approach. “While we 20,000 as much of value to of having rankings. Even if DLSU has did use the survey to promote our university, 15,000 locally been able to meet set standards and it was but a small part of our marketing 14,398 us as it is for external goals as evidenced by the PAASCU Level strategy. We have been very consistent in organizations and IV accreditation, the message has been that our efforts to communicate a wide range of universities participating in the world rank- pride points to our different stakeholders. 1,000 companies like the ings have to benchmark themselves against The survey result in 2006 was a good story 500 the rest of the world. so we went with it. We have since shifted THES-QS” Complaints hurled at THES-QS regard- our efforts to talking about the achievement 386 CHRISTMAS SPIRIT CHARING! - Dr. Carmelita Quebengco ing its biases have actually been addressed of Sinag. We are constantly on the look PALUSOT NI JERIC AIRI BELTRAN SAMANTHA ANG JY UY through the change in citation reference out for stories we can tell our stakeholders data source from Essential Science Indica- about,” shared Magpayo. infographics by Airi Beltran

More projects DLSAA Trivia

The oldest living member of DLSAA celebrated its the DLSAA is 93-year old 90th anniversary last underway for DLSAA year. Jorge Jose (HS’39). old nick’s picks paul matthew jiao

by loraine saguinsin De La Salle-Health Sciences Institute (DLS-HSI) have 1 4 agreed on an arrangement wherein active card-bearing There are approximately P5,000 is the credit The De La Salle Alumni Association alumni members are entitled to 10 percent discounts (DLSAA), according to its president Johnny Valdez, is on a wide range of medical and hospital services upon 63,000 members of limit of the De La Salle focusing on four areas for the next two years: improving presenting their alumni ID. DLSAA, both living and Alumni Association the lives of alumni, assisting in younger Lasallians’ The organization is also keen on extending help dead. About 20,000 are Visa Card. formation, spreading the good news about the to alumni looking for jobs. To answer this need, the considered active. 5 University, and helping foster excellence in athletics. employment firm that was conceptualized last year from 2 “One La Salle in no longer a concept but a reality, the ideas of former DLSAA President Jay Gervasio and and the DLSAA is a catalytic participant in this reality,” then-Vice President for Finance,Johnny Valdez was Valdez said in his speech at the DLSAA 6th World formally named Jobs@DLS Career Corporation. Third year students can already avail of DLSAA privileges Congress. DLSAA Vice President for Communications and by enlisting under the Alumni-in-Residence program. Executive Director Benjamin Uichico explained that Guiding the youth Jobs@DLSCC, established by the alumni chapters of To allow alumni frequent interaction with students, DLSU-Manila and De La Salle-College of St. Benilde 3 THE CAMPUS ADVENTURES of sam and flarry Kevin ang and jean pe the Association organized the year-long Speaker’s (DLS-CSB), eventually aims to cater to all Lasallian Forum, through which highly acclaimed and widely schools in the country. recognized alumni are invited to share their views Aside from the establishment of an operational and experiences with Lasallians in the University. online Lasallian database (as was mentioned in The The DLSAA has also been promoting its Alumni in LaSallian 2006 July Issue), Bambie Picazo, project head Residence (AIR LA SALLE) program, which aims to of Jobs@DLSCC, reported that plans are underway for create a spirit of volunteerism and encourage student a mentoring program (Green Beacon) and a livelihood involvement in alumni affairs.“Our experience is one project for aspiring Lasallian entrepreneurs (Green of the greatest assets we can share with them and Mall). being involved with them is a key activity,” remarked Valdez. Future plans DLSAA Deputy Executive Director Jose Miguel The DLSAA also intends to launch web pages for Lisbona also added that the DLSAA helped organize a Digital Yearbook, beginning with the College Batch the College of Engineering’s National ECE Students of 1982 and the High School Batch of 1956. Their Congress, the 2nd Business and Economics Convention objective is to make the yearbook accessible to members for Students (BECS), and the First Convention of via the internet. The Association is also determined to Future Scientists by the College of Science (COS). make its presence felt in notable tournaments such as The College of Liberal Arts (CLA) Chapter of the UAAP, the University Games, the La Salle-Ateneo the DLSAA also met with the Alliance of College of Golf Classic, and the Homegrown Cup, among Liberal Arts Professional Organizations (C10) to discuss others. corporate career opportunities for CLA graduates. Preparations for the DLSAA’s 7th World Congress— themed “Green and White Convergence” and to be held Looking out for alumni at Los Angeles, California from May 22-24, 2009—are One of the main goals of the DLSAA under ongoing. The DLSAA Congress is a biennial event Valdez’s term is the improvement of the lives of the where officers are elected from thirty representatives of Faith in action. Pampanga Governor Fr. Ed Panlilio was on campus last Nov. 22 for a symposium on “Restoring alumni, and so in line with this, the DLSAA and the college, campus, regional, and international chapters. Moral Values in Public Office.” photo by Erika serrano s p o r t s s p o r t s 12 13 december 2007 13 THE LASALLIAN THE LASALLIAN ALUMNI FOCUS work virtually anywhere).” from page 16 sports studies He also denied claims that student-athletes Athleterevisited IN THIS CORNER A student’s perspective slack off in their studies. “Balanced din ang studies “Wala naman akong ibang course bago ang Sports namin kasi underload lang naman ako eh. Pero pag Gerry Achacoso Studies, pero gusto ko rin ‘tong Sports Studies (I walang UAAP, diyan ako bumabawi at full load ako “Which second half UAAP Of sharing didn’t have any course other than Sports Studies, (We’re able to balance our sports and our studies maureen By MICHAEL GERARD SY but I really like it),” said Peejay Barua of the Green because, I for example, take fewer subjects during sports team from DLSU and playing Archers. the UAAP season. And when it’s the off-season, penetrante part from change, the only other constant in life is Gerry Achacoso Barua described Sports Studies as a course I’m on a full course load). where students learn about sports from the Though he confessed that there are times that By JED gonzales, jefferson quincy reyes, and his connection with De La Salle. will win a championship?” perspectives of both business and the humanities. they miss classes, they always see to it that they and katherine anne tingzon Achacoso’s love story with the Green and White began in the He denied that the program is a mere “stepping- request make-up sessions with their professors. A stone” to playing in the UAAP and becoming a “Alam naman namin ang dapat naming gawin bilang 60s, when he started his Lasallian education at La Salle Green Hills. He became compiled by Jefferson quincy reyes and Obiter professional athlete in the PBA: “Yung opportunities student athletes (We know our duty as student- a cheerleader in high school (two other siblings would follow suit). Four katherine anne tingzon dictum na binibigay sa amin ng course na ito eh kahit anong athletes [and that is to study first]).” Overall, Barua decades later, as Assistant Vice President for Sports of the De La Salle Alumni trabaho pwede kaming ipasok (There are a lot of said the degree program is effective, and that it Association (DLSAA), his bond with the University is stronger than ever. “I do not know; I do not know that there are second half sports” opportunities this course gives us, because we can should not be changed at all. – Charmaine Soriano, II- AB- ISE Camille Bianca Pinto Sidebar: Nonetheless, most DLSU athletes (166) are in Which is why it really does not come as college sports, the Green Archers “Fencing? The second half teams are not promoting anything; we CLA. On the other hand, the College of Business and Economics (CBE) has 119, Engineering a surprise that his heart truly ached for the showed what was possible with are left uninformed!” t the time I was making this column, the Popular (COE) has 79, Computer Studies (CCS) has 33, and community when the entire DLSU sports grit and determination. Seeing the - Daryl Capanzana, AIESEC- DLSU President 24th Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) program was suspended from the UAAP for Archers reach the finals and quickly Education (CED) has 30. in Bangkok, Thailand had already started. It Aside from special degrees, academic support one year. He knew that there were DLSU teams dispatch the University of the East A academics Men’s Football, because I see them practice and they’re good. I see may be recalled that just two years ago, our country for student-athletes in many universities involves Red Warriors in two games to win like the Lady Booters that were denied a chance their determination and willpower to win.” was host of this sporting event, and we emerged as Regardless of the presence of specially- some form of tutoring or mentoring. Former Ateneo to defend their titles just because they proudly the championship brought a smile - Crissy Lopez 1st year BS-ECED overall champions—taking home almost 113 gold designed degree programs, it seems common to star point guard LA Tenorio, for example, had a tutor carried the name of the University. They, to everyone’s faces, but the victory medals in the final tally. This year’s SEA Games will find student-athletes clustering around majors that to help him with his subjects until he was in his third along with the other teams who lost potential is doubly sweeter for Achacoso, who “Women’s Volleyball, because they are known for winning the be from Dec. 6-15, and our athletes will defend that are usually interdisciplinary or sports-oriented. year, reported Charlene Dy in her December 2005 recruits who were unwilling to sit out a year, was with the team from the very PHOTO BY WILLIAM CRUZ championship [consistently]. Magaling sila at maganda yung training nila hard-earned general crown. (Usually, the host nation Interdisciplinary programs normally allow students article (For the love of basketball) for the Philippine graduating student-athletes who missed out on beginning: “Doubly, if not triply, (They’re good and their training is excellent). “ emerges overall champion.) to pursue two or more fields through independent Center for Investigative Journalism. everything in DLSU sports: It’s a confluence their last chance at UAAP gold, and the entire sweet! The Season 69 champions - 1st year, BS-EPSY Our national athletes, coming from different study. (Curiously, popular student-athlete majors In the United States, where college athletics is of a lot of people’s unselfish efforts. They in Harvard University are economics, government, De La Salle community—as everyone knows were ‘asterisk champions,’ especially in events schools and parts of the country to form one team, governed by an elaborate set of rules enforced by the should be thanked, both the recognizable and social studies, psychology, and biology, according to National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA), by now—were the collateral victims of this where [De] La Salle would ordinarily be in “All the teams! [But seriously] Football, I think. [Good] potential prepared for this event with months of rigorous the anonymous, who know who they are. Let The Harvard Crimson.) there have been many controversies regarding entire debacle. the finals.” players are there.” training. Forming part of the Filipino delegation to us affirm and support each other. The least In De La Salle, the second most popular student-athletes’ academic performance. Last year, Through it all, Achacoso kept the faith. He But while the highlight reel may have - Joy Lanting DLSU softball player the Games are a considerable number of Lasallians: you can do is do the most you can. I know degree program among student-athletes is Business Auburn University’s Sociology Department came knew that DLSU would return to the UAAP, ended, the 70th season of the UAAP is far Jins John Paul Lizardo, Eunice Alora, and Criselda that the other teams are doing their best and Management, with 31 enrolled. Other than these under public scrutiny after it was discovered that and that it would do so in style. He saw how from over; in fact, the second half has just “The Lady Booters will be the team to beat this year. Though they Roxas; Judoka Rick Jayson Senales, Tanker Ernest courses, many Lasallian athletes are in Psychology (21 preparing just as hard—they’re also coached many of its athletes were receiving high grades from hard the student-athletes have worked in begun. This time, it’s the DLSU Spikers, were sidelined last season, they still have their experienced players, and Dee, and Tennister rookie sensation Patrick John students), Management of Financial Institutions (16 one professor for sociology and criminology subjects very well… As Br. Ceci [Hojilla] said, ‘It is not their year away from the UAAP; the teams, Booters, and Tennisters’ turn in the spotlight. aggressiveness to boot. They are better, stronger, and hungrier for the Tierro. Competing alongside them are former Green students), Early Childhood Education, Electronics that required little coursework and no attendance. Achacoso, and the entire DLSU community And Achacoso regularly watches and supports the teams’ job to make us happy: the athletes’ crown. After all, they weren’t the four-peat champs for nothing.” Batter Joseph Orillana, Judoka Marcus Valda, and and Communications Engineering, and Philippine A 2003 study by The Chronicle of Higher in general, were hungry for the chance to all the UAAP-competing DLSU sports teams. role is to play their best; the coaches’ role is - Earlene Clarissa Ching, 2005-2006 Sports Editor Trackster Sheena Atilano. The participation of these Studies (14 students each). Interestingly, there are Education reported that a good number of nationally photo by erika serrano prove their critics wrong. (The Green Archers, “A chess game can be full of suspense and [be] to mentor and teach their best. For the rest of athletes prove that Lasallians are competitive in the as many student-athletes enrolled in a double major renowned American football programs have in particular, kept themselves busy by going nerve-wracking, since even a draw game can us, it’s our job to support and cheer our best! I don’t think any team will win. We show them less support, unlike world of sports not just at the collegiate level, but at program as there are in Sports Studies. significant numbers of athletes in a few majors. to reach-out clinics in Bacolod and Iloilo, give you a title. So can a taekwondo match or a Then our collective [UAAP season] journey the attention we give to the hoop shooters of our school. We fail to the international stage. The six undergraduates from ne of the most formidable spikers playing exhibition games abroad, and winning four-hour baseball game… I am fortunate to be would be a happy and fulfilling one. The title acknowledge the existence of other athletes and the pride they bring DLSU, it must be pointed out, had won medals in the De La Salle has ever produced, 5’11’’ Maureen Calimbo Penetrante from St. in the inaugural Fil-oil Flying V Homegrown under the auspices of the Alumni Association is a bonus.’” to [De] La Salle not only by competing and winning, but by being 23rd SEAGAMES, and were important contributors O La Salle School in Bacolod was born into a family Tournament and the Nike Summer League.) which tries to extend support before, during, Gerry Achacoso has always been proud of ambassadors of sportsmanship. It would also be much better if their to the Philippines’ overall championship. DLSU, AdMU tied in of volleyball players. And she has definitely made The highlight of every UAAP season, and after the various tournaments,” he said. De La Salle. With everything he has done for games would be publicized to gain more audience. The Philippines has a chance of repeating the an unforgettable mark in the history of Philippine undeniably, comes with the Men’s Basketball To every Lasallian, this is Achacoso’s the University, is it any wonder DLSU feels the - Kevin Michael Ramos, II- AB- ISJ success it gained in 2005. All we need to do as Filipinos collegiate volleyball. Finals. And there, in the biggest stage in message: “Not a single person knows same way about him? is keep the faith. intercollegiate golf tourney *** When Penetrante entered DLSU in 2001, the Lady Spikers were almost always bridesmaids to Far With the most-awaited holiday of every year just By CAMILLE BIANCA PINTO In the first leg, the De La Salle golfers were in pole position, with a commanding lead of 22 Eastern University (FEU) in the UAAP. Two years By camille bianca pinto weeks away, it’s safe to say that given the lights and decors, the famous lanterns from Pampanga on the The rivalry continues on the golf strokes over second place Ateneo 1, 439-461. UST later, with her on the team, De La Salle learned from highways, the trees lined with gifts, and the shopping course. and DLS-CSB, meanwhile, ended with 472 and 483 its mistakes and finally defeated FEU. mall sales, Christmas fever is already upon us. After two tournament legs, the DLSU Green strokes, respectively, to finish at the third and fourth Suffice it to say, Penetrante’s addition to the La Beside the traditional Christmas paraphernalia, Golfers were tied with Ateneo for first place in spots. Rounding up the top seven teams were Ateneo Salle line-up as a middle blocker and spiker paid off. Midnight Mass (Simbang Gabi) is again with us for the first-ever PGF-National Intercollegiate Golf 2, University of the East (UE), and the University Her height was a factor in DLSU’s dominance in nine days before the 25th of December (which, if Tournament at Splendido Golf Club, Tagaytay, and of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P). DLSU earned 10 women’s volleyball from 2003 to 2005, as the team completed, is said to entitle someone to a special Mount Malarayat Golf and Country Club, Batangas points; Ateneo 1 had 8; UST, DLS-CSB, and Ateneo went on to reap success in the Shakey’s V-League wish). To those who are not familiar with the Filipino City last Oct. 20-21 and Nov. 5-6. 2 got 6, 4, and 2 points. and the NCRAA, among other tournaments. Christmas celebration, allow me to paint a more vivid A tiebreaker via play-off was supposed to have De La Salle’s players were Justin Limjapn, Charles But Maureen did not start as a blocker for picture: Favorite Christmas delicacies Bibingka and Puto occurred between De La Salle and Ateneo at the end Hong, and Miko Yee for the first leg; Pj Plata, Marco DLSU, as she was an opener in her freshman year. bumbong are being sold. Television advertisements are of the tourney’s second leg, but the Ateneo 1 team Olives, and Geleen Handog for the second leg. The It was Coach Ramil De Jesus and Assistant Coach into the spirit of the season as well—the most recent was given the win by the tournament committee. CSB team was composed of Jay Alvarez, Jed Bautista, Oliver Almadro who saw her potential as a blocker one I caught was that of a mother being surprised by Both teams ended the round with 18 points Nico Sevilla, Migol Marcelo, Fern Zaldarriaga, Mac given her height, and trained her accordingly. Even her children and her husband. Famous celebrities are On the other hand, the College of St. Benilde Arevalo, and Tristan Laxa. more surprisingly, volleyball, which was introduced publicizing their Christmas lists. Christmas, after all, (CSB) teams dropped to third and fourth place The DLSU Golfers will again compete against to her by a brother who played for FEU, was just is supposed to be a season of sharing and giving love together with Ateneo 2 and University of Sto. Tomas Ateneo on Jan. 17, 2008 for the second round of the Maureen’s second sport after swimming, which she to one another. (UST) with 8 points each. La Salle-Ateneo Captain’s Cup at Sherwood Hills. considered her “first love.” The big question though is this: Do these Although ending in second place, DLSU’s Justin The Ryder Cup-style dual meet was made possible For health reasons though, she had to turn away commercials illustrate the reality of Christmas in a Limjap bagged individual honors as the Low Medalist by DLSU and AdMU team captains Jorge Paez and from swimming and focus on volleyball. country where most people are poor? I don’t think for the second leg, with a +7 finish. Kevin Lachica. Few athletes can match Penetrante’s track so. record. She was thrice nominated Best Blocker I better realized this after having watched in the UAAP (2003-2005), two-time Best Blocker a documentary that featured poor people in in the V-League, 2005 UAAP Best Attacker, and Maguindanao—where people eat a combination awarded MVP by the NCRAA, V-League Second of rice and corn, and the children are generally Conference, and the UAAP in 2005. She was also undernourished. I do not think they will have the same Mixed results for DLSU a part of the Philippine team in the Southeast Asian Christmas Day as the people and famous personalities Games (SEA Games) held in the country in 2005. in the commercials. Take the case of Mariannet Amper, Nonetheless, the road to success has not been easy Fencers in National Open for her: A Baker cyst on her right knee had to be an 11-year old child who hanged herself out of sheer desperation from her family’s poverty. Different sectors By floren faye chua wins, but fell short to national team member Leni aspirated every six months by the doctor to lessen of society sent their help to members of Mariannet’s Otadoy, who beat de Leon last month, 15-9, in the the pain and the excess knee joint fluid. family, but that didn’t change the hard truth that it took Four fencers participated in the first round of the eliminations. Maureen, now considered one of Philippine her death for people to even start caring. National Fencing Open at the Philsports Arena “After winning against UP, I was already happy volleyball’s elite, not only relied on her court In this season of love, why are there people who Fencing Hall last Nov. 27 and 28. about it kasi first time ko nakapasok sa top four. knowledge and training, but also on three intangibles starve and have nothing on their table for Noche Leading the way for the DLSU Fencers were During that time, I was really inspired to do well kasi whenever she played: passion for the sport, pride nararamdaman ko lahat ng suporta ng parents ko, lalo na Buena? So yes, Christmas is a season of giving—for Lady Fencer Gaby Estimada, who ranked fourth for the University, and inspiration from her family. out of 22 in the Women’s Epeé division, and Green sa coach ko dahil sobrang matiyaga siya magturo samin people who are able to exchange gifts. (And as a pre-game ritual, she listens to house Fencer David Elizaga, who was tenth out of 27 kahit minsan talunan. (After winning against UP, I was The point I wish to stress is that Christmas is not music.) participants in Men’s Sabre. Meanwhile, Lady Fencer really happy about it because it was the first time I Upon graduating with a degree in Translation just about sharing one’s blessings with family members got into the top 4 [of the Women’s Epeé Division]. Alliv Samson and Geisha de Leon had a reversal of Studies, Penetrante ceased to play competitive and loved ones, but about being thankful, appreciating fortunes, as Samson improved from being 20th to During that time, I was really inspired to do well volleyball, though she did return to the DLSU the little things in life, and most importantly, giving 18th in the seedings while de Leon crashed from because I was really inspired by my parents and my to people who are most in need. These may all be 14th to 19th among the 25 fencers in the Women’s very diligent coach even though we lose sometimes),” team in the latest V-League season as a guest player clichés, but these things are what life should really be Saber Division. said Estimada, who is hopeful for a medal finish in to share her expertise with La Salle’s younger about—even if it’s not Christmas season. We tend to Estimada, which began as a sixth seed, ended upcoming UAAP competition. players. give more during Christmas, and it’s about time we give her Nov. 27 pooling round by beating two UP Lady “Yung mga nakakalaban ko sa monthly competitions She currently does billing assistance for more and do our share for the least in society through Fencers, 15-12 and 15-14. She then went on to kasi yun din makakalaban ko sa UAAP so at least may Meralco’s customer retail services. our own little ways. After all, everything that we have is beat a member of the national team, 15-13, but her gauge na ako kung gaano kalakas na yung mga kalaban When asked if the current DLSU roster can ko. Hindi pa rin dapat ako maging complacent dahil temporary—which gives more sense to giving. amazing run was ended by a 3-15 loss. Elizaga, on win the UAAP crown, she replied: “Nothing is the other hand, won three of the five matches in naka-4th ako nung competition so we’ll continue Christmas should be enjoyed by everyone: rich, impossible if they all think positively. If they the pooling round, losing 15-14 to national team to train even harder (The ones we were up against middle class, and poor alike. That can only happen have the passion and the fire to win, teamwork, member Edmond Velez and 15-13 to an Ateneo Blue this month are the same people that we will face in discipline, mental awareness and pride [they could when people come together with Christ in true charity the UAAP, so at least I now have a gauge on how Fencer. Elizaga was eliminated by University of the certainly win the championship]!” and generosity. Merry Christmas! East (UE) Fencer Eric Brando. 15-13. strong my opponents will be; though I shouldn’t be On the next day, Samson blazed to three straight complacent with my standing and I have to train harder),” she added. s p o r t s s p o r t s 14 13 december 2007 13 december 2007 15 THE LASALLIAN THE LASALLIAN Down but not out: How De La Salle’s Gr e e n th a l l e r y athletes cope with injuries 24 SEA GAMES Gby Philip Andrew Ang, Floren Faye Chua, and Jefferson Quincy Reyes Lady Netters Athletes Greatly influenced by her father who Caitlyn Chan is a badminton coach, Lady Netter Caitlyn by Katherine Anne Tingzon, Christine Mariel Suntay, philip ang, and camille pinto PHOTO BY Francis GARRUCHO Calalan Chan has been playing badminton since she was 14. When she was 10 to 11 eleven years old, she shared, badminton’s popularity made her decide to train under Enchong Enchong Dee Criselda Roxas Japoy her father. DEE Swimming taekwondo LIZARDO Now 19, this sophomore Organizational Communication student, who is also in her “No pain no gain.” Known for her powerhouse kicks and second year of playing badminton for the Green Tanker ace swimmer, UAAP MVP, remarkable talent, 21-year old Criselda Roxas Green and White, is known as a strong and Development Studies sophomore Enchong is representing the country and the University doubles player. She was crowned doubles Dee lives by this adage, and indeed, thanks to in SEA Games taekwondo, together with De champion in the 2007 Accel Badminton hardwork and dedication, he is now on his way La Salle teammates Japoy Lizardo and Eunice Super Challenge to his second SEA Games. Alora. This fourth year Interdisciplinary As for the reasons why she chose And Dee does discipline himself: “Training, Business Studies major, chosen by national team to play badminton, Chan explained that diet, total stop on eating junk food and drinking coach Rocky Samson, received a silver medal badminton is fun to play, accessible to a lot softdrinks, and some rest,” he answered in in the 23rd SEA Games held in the Philippines of people, and gives her the opportunity response to questions about how he prepared last 2005. Roxas is in the middle weight division to network extensively. for the SEA Games. (67 to 72 kg.) When asked about the Netters’ chances Dee, who broke four UAAP swimming In preparation for the upcoming SEA of winning the UAAP championship, this records this season, was part of the World John Paul Lizardo Games, she also went through the intense former St. Peter the Apostle School student University Games to gain confidence and TAEKWONDO thrice-a -day trainings and stayed in a dormitory said her team has “a fighting chance.” To exposure en route to his UAAP MVP award. near Rizal. be competitive however, she admitted that He expects to surpass his sixth place finish World-renowned athlete John Paul “Japoy” Trying out taekwondo as an experiment, training this Christmas break is crucial and during the previous SEA Games and hopefully Lizardo is all set to yet again compete for a Criselda eventually came to love her sport, and necessary. “Please support our team. Pray break some national swimming records; he is SEA Games taekwondo title, and being the has been part of the national team since she was for us and watch our upcoming games,” Holly Angela competing in the 100m and 200m fly, as well hardworking go-getter that he is, the Philippines 16. She was the Philippines’ lone medalist in the she closed. as in the 200m individual medley and relay should be confident about its chances. 2007 Universiade Games in China and gained a Criselda JOSEF events. Chosen by the Coach Roberto Cruz of bronze medal in the 2004 Asian Championships. ROXAS This SEA games, the former Hope the national team for the SEA Games, Lizardo Roxas, who believes that one should “seek first Lady Fencers An inconvenient truth. Green Archer Marko Batricevic missed the UAAP Men’s Basketball photo by Francis garrucho Christian Naga product will be competing in is a defending SEA Games gold medalist. the kingdom of God,” is positive about her season due to an ACL injury, from which he is still recovering. 100 and 200 meters fly, 200 meters individual He started out as a basketball player in grade expected performance in the Games. medley and relay. school at Diliman Preparatory School, but Alliv Lorelei by Jefferson Quincy Reyes and katherine anne tingzon the removal of the varsity team during his “Play like every game is my last.” As of 2005, the Philippines has fifth grade—coupled with his admiration for Eunice Alora Samson This is what sophomore American Bruce Lee movies—influenced him to go into taekwondo PHOTO BY JENNERSON ONG hat doesn’t kill you, according to an old adage, makes you stronger. In sports injuries, that may won 691 gold, 759 silver, and Studies student and DLSU Lady Fencer taekwondo. not always be the case. Alliv Samson has in mind every time she 929 bronze medals in SEA Games The last SEA Games was a blast for Now in her second SEA Games stint, 20- wears her mask and has her sabre in hand The UAAP, for instance, has seen many teams flounder because of injuries to key players. In competition, according to records Lizardo. “Very exciting kasi dito siya ginawa, year old Eunice Alora is ready to bring home against veteran opponents. W lahat ng athletes gusto nila ipakita ang kagalingan a gold medal for taekwondo. “We’ll keep on 2004, the Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU) Blue Eagles bowed out of Final Four contention after losing kept by the Philippine Olympic nila, at siyempre pinapanood ka ng kababayan mo (It fighting to bring honor to our country and Originally a chess player, Samson Larry Fonacier to an ACL injury. Men’s Basketball cellar-dweller University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting planned to try out for the University’s Committee. was exciting because it was held here, with all I’ll do all my best to win,” she said. Alora, chess team given her experience with Maroons lost reliable big man Maggi Sison in the middle of the UAAP season to injuries—which was prob- the Filipino athletes eager to show their best together with Japoy Lizardo and Criselda national competitions at the high ably a factor behind their winless Season 70 campaign. Likewise, an injury ended Lady Archers’ Team Captain Liza Del Rosario and because fellow Filipinos were watching),” he Roxas, will be representing the country and remarked, adding that his gold medal win in school level. But she got attracted to Kristine Alon-Alon’s season—and along with it, the DLSU team’s chance for a Final Four appearance. Holly Angela Josef the University in SEA Games taekwondo in the last SEA Games made him proud to be a the fin weight division. (She is one of eight the sport of fencing last year, when she Earlier this year, the Lady Spikers failed to qualify for a fourth consecutive finals appearance in the first Bowling decided to enlist herself in the fencing Filipino. For the upcoming tourney, however, women in the RP taekwondo squad.) conference of the Shakey’s V-League after an injury to key gunner Manilla Santos. Liza the Philippines will be facing stiff opposition Influenced by her sister to engage in the program during the Lasallian Enrichment Liza Del Rosario, one of the country’s top Eunice from number one contender Thailand—which sport during her years in elementary school, Alternative Program (LEAP) upon the DEL ROSARIO bowlers, graduated with a Business Management is also the Game’s host country. Hence, Lizardo Alora’s perseverance eventually led her to a invitation of former team captain Jose entirely what was supposed to be his second UAAP season. degree from DLSU-Manila in 1998, and since ALORA Mental game said that the Philippine team is “ready for spot in the national team. And this fourth Unson III. (ACL injuries are common to athletes. A tear of the ACL 1996, has been part of the national team. Green Archer Peejay Barua, a junior Sports Studies anything.” He will be participating in the fin year Interdisciplinary Business Studies major Samson is currently part of the This will be her fourth time to represent the student, nearly missed UAAP Season 70 because of a results from the sudden dislocation or hyperextension of the weight division. has gone through a lot of sacrifices to be able newly-formed women’s sabre team, and Philippines in the SEA Games—the first being preseason knee injury. On Jan. 31, 2007, Barua had a bad knee, and is most frequent in sports where the knee has to “Sobrang pinaghandaan namin yung SEA to compete in the SEA Games. For instance, she just had her first major competition a in 1995 as a college freshman, where she won fall after a jump, resulting in a kneecap dislocation. He withstand enormous amounts of weight and pressure such Games, time ito para ipakita sa lahat ang pinaghirapan she stayed in a dormitory near Ninoy Aquino few months ago. She shared that switching four medals (gold for the five-man team event, as football, hockey, skiing, and skating.) namin (We really prepared for the SEA Games; Stadium away from her family to allow her to from a mental to a physical sport has been underwent surgery on Feb. 14 at St. Luke’s Medical Center. bronze for the master’s event, all events, and At the last minute of the semi-final game against Uni- it’s time to show the world what we worked so practice regularly with her teammates. Alora a really big shift. She is excited about “Super hirap, parang di ka makagalaw ng maayos, parang lagi na trio event). The Philippine team now has a hard for),” he confidently said. and the Philippine team likewise practiced the UAAP season, but is nervous about lang naka-straight yung paa mo (It was extremely difficult. You versity of the East (UE), Batricevic went for a rebound and different set of players compared to previous intensely: three times a day from Monday to competing in team matches. “I don’t want can’t move well. It was like your legs and feet had to always landed on his hyper extended knee. Interestingly, when he years, she said. Saturday, with 6 to 8 am devoted to strength to rank last and I want to reach the final landed on the floor, he started shouting “ACL! ACL!” even However, Del Rosario said she intends Joseph Orillana be straightened),” he shared. This was, according to him, and conditioning exercises (i.e. lifting weights four [in the singles and team divisions],” though he was not really sure what the injury to his right to focus on another field after the Games: baseball his most serious and difficult injury. and running around the track oval), 10 am said Samson. knee was. An initial check-up the next day told him it was “I’m into designing clothes, and I want to Post-surgery therapy proved even more difficult to cope to 12 noon for building kicking stamina, study abroad to broaden my knowledge.” For DLSU alumni and Baseball and with. Barua, who has required knee support ever since, was just a knee contusion, but he was ultimately proven right and 5:30 to 7:30 in the evening was time for Nonetheless, she asserted that she still wants Softball coach Joseph Orillana, “Winning is not under a mobilizer for a month. He also had to undertake by the doctors. sparring and kicking techniques. “to be number one in the world.” everything; it’s the only thing.” Batricevic said he tried playing with the injury and going Disappointed by her previous SEA LADY paddlers therapies for his lower body, lift controlled weights, and run Computer Science freshman Holly Angela Orillana, in his second SEA Games, was to therapy to strengthen his muscles and manage somehow, Games performance, Alora said: “I expect to on a limited basis. And he had to do extra work after every Josef, who first made a name for herself as girl’s handpicked by national team head coach Edgar “There’s nothing impossible to him have a very good experience and [of course] training session to speed up his recovery. It took him four but realized that he needed surgery when he constantly felt singles champion of the 2004 National Youth Delos Reyes, and is the only De La Salle player Jobelle Firme who will try,” believes Lady Paddler to win and bring honor to our country. Jobelle Firme, a Computer Science- to six months to achieve gradual recovery. pain while training. He had an operation last July 7. Championships, is also part of the Philippine in the 24-player Philippine team. He graduated Patrick John Rick We prepared hard for this competition so PHOTO BY ALVIN LAU Computer Systems Engineering major Accepting the injury was tough: “I could not accept the bowling team in the SEA Games. In her first from DLSU in 2003 with a degree in Physical While he was working his way back to good playing positive yung views ko na magiging maganda yung TIERRO from Woodridge College. fact that I would be out of the season. I felt like I was being SENALES SEA Games stint, Josef said she is confident Education, Major in Sports and Recreational form, the 19-year old Iloilo native said he drew inspiration performance ng team namin. Lahat ng ginawa Firme started playing table tennis punished for no reason,” said Batricevic. that the team will do a great job in Thailand. Management. from reading books about Michael Jordan, which frequently namin sa training and sacrifices lama ko na during her first year high school days: “Parang iba yung feeling… mixed emotions, Known for his very fast pitches, Orillana mention Jordan’s never-say-die attitude. Injuries, he said, are Nonetheless, he found a way to support the team despite mag-pay off yun dahil we really give our best Patrick John Tierro “Actually I really started from nothing; I Rick Senales Masaya, malungkot, pressured, iba kasi pag bansa also plays first base and outfield. The 23rd largely psychological, and so the key to dealing with them his injury. “I could not do anything [so] I started suiting up during training (We prepared hard for this tennis really didn’t know how to play this sport, judo mo na yung irerepresent mo (The feeling is different. SEA Games held here in the Philippines last but thanks to my coach then, Cedrick for the team again even though I could not play at all. It was competition so I’m positive that the team will successfully is not being scared and thinking about the It’s mixed emotions: happy, sad, pressured; 2005 was very unforgettable for him, and he Eng, he taught me very well on how to nice sitting on the bench with my team mates and cheering,” have a great performance. I know everything DLSU Green Tennister recruit Patrick condition less. The intensity of the Green Archers’ trainings After ruling over UAAP judo rivals in it’s different when you’re representing your remarked that the championship game against play and love table tennis.” we did in training will pay off, since we really John “PJ” Tierro, the country’s number one- and the whole team’s support, he noted, made him forget he said. “At the beginning it was really hard, not only for the minus 90 kg. weight category, Mechanical country),” Josef said when asked how she felt Thailand was very memorable. “That was the The biggest achievement so far in give our best there).” ranked tennis player, will be competing in the he was injured. me but I guess also for my teammates, since I was out of Engineering student Rick Senales is again after being chosen to be part of the Philippine first timena napuno yung baseball stadium na halos her career is being crowned champion Suffice it to say, Alora is all geared up to 24th Southeast Asian Games in Thailand this rotation. Every time my team would have a hard time and bringing his strength and skill to the 24th SEA contingent. umabot sa 10,000 people (That was the first time in the provincial meet held in Cavite— Barua still wears a knee sleeve for support, though de- bounce back and prove her worth. December. Games. the baseball stadium was filled; almost 10,000 enabling her to compete regionally, spite limited playing time in the recently concluded UAAP lose a game I somehow felt guilty for not being there to help Both Lasallians have proven themselves A member of the Philippine team since Senales, who believes in reaping what one people were there),” he recounted. though eventually falling short in that season, he was the Green Archers’ best player in their first them. Soon after, when we started winning, I felt happy… among the country’s best time and again. Holly 2003, PJ Tierro went to the United States, stage of the competition. sows, is coming into the SEA Games ready. Josef has bowled a 289 score, and once bowled On the upcoming games, he said that round match against the Far Eastern University (FEU) Ta- After the championship I felt like I could jump again!” The Southeast Asian Games, first Australia, and Germany for a year of training Surprisingly, playing table tennis was Every morning he does some grappling, and her way to 840 pin falls in a three-game series. he senses that his team will have a harder maraws last July 19. During that game, he scored 11 points Batricevic is still undergoing therapy almost everyday. and tournaments. This will be his second not on her plans after graduating from lifts weights and practices judo later in the day. Meanwhile, Liza Del Rosario has had five time: “Mapapalaban kami ng husto kasi sobrang held in 1959, are presided over He will resume training with the Archers on February SEA Games, having won a gold medal in his high school. But though she preferred in just nine minutes of play. Prior to the UAAP, he competed in the Thailand pinaghandaan kami ng Thailand, at the same time perfect games (strikes in all 10 frames) in her previous one. “It feels good representing the dancing, in the end, she also joined the 2008. International Judo Championship at Bangkok sila pa yung host (We will be made to work very by the Southeast Asian Games career, and holds a personal best record of 767 country,” said PJ when asked about being part team’s tryouts. “Kahit matagal na ako hindi Marko’s story “This kind of injury (ACL) is not a joke, but if you North College, where he ended second only to pin falls in a three-game series. hard, as Thailand really prepared for us, and at nakapaglaro nun, kahit na nung araw na Federation. The Philippines of the Games once again. Barua wasn’t the only Archer injured in the run-up to have [the] desire to recover, you can do it. And there is a a Thai opponent. Both Del Rosario and Josef prepared the same time they’re the hosts [so that makes it sumali ako ay ranking day na, I’m glad na Thailand and Indonesia will be the big chance that you will get better and stronger not only as In the last SEA Games, Senales finished even harder for us],” he remarked. Nonetheless, was admitted as a member of nakapasok pa rin ako (I hadn’t played table Season 70. Green Archer forward-center Marko Batricevic intensely for the Thailand games: practicing toughest competitors of the Philippine tennis fifth in his weight category. Ultimately, he is he remains very positive about the Philippines’ tennis for a long time and it was ranking went down with an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) in- a player, but also as a person because of the experience you everyday since October, joining competitions the SEA Games Federation on team, and all the Filipino athletes, according hopeful that all the effort he has put in preparing chances of retaining the title. day when I tried out; I’m glad I got in the jury in the last Nike Summer League—forcing him to miss went through,” he advised other athletes. abroad (i.e. the Asian Indoor Games in Macau, to Tierro, are going to do their best to retain for the Games will result in a much better Febuary 5, 1977. team),” she recalled. China), gym and jogging sessions, and mental photos by Francis garrucho, william the country’s overall championship. performance in Thailand. skills training. cruz, erika serrano, and kimberly go vignette ATHLETE REVISITED FEATURE 24th SEA Games, 15 Maureen Penetrante, 13 Coping with injuries, 14 Check out who among the University’s We look back at the illustrious collegiate volleyball career of UAAP legend Having an injury is the worst thing that can student-athletes are participating in and former Lady Spiker Maureen Penetrante. happen to an athlete. Learn how Green this year’s Southeast Asian Games Archers Peejay Barua and Marko at Thailand. Batricevic have coped with theirs-- physically and mentally. LaSallianThe

vo l. xlVIvoi no.l. x7 lV i no. 4 t he S officia thel officiastpudentl pubostudenlication pub r olFica det lion ta s aollF dee univer s la sallsitey univer s ity 1813 novemberDecember 2007 2006 Green Spikers 1-3 Sports Studies in De La Salle in UAAP debut By floren faye chua and paulo mutuc by Jefferson Quincy Reyes

The creation of degree programs and courses he DLSU Green Spikers began their specific to athletes is not a new practice: The University of the UAAP season with a 1-2 slate after Philippines, for instance, has a Sports Science major for students losing to Adamson University (AdU), accepted through its Varsity Athletic Admission System (administered T by its College of Human Kinetics); many American universities, in University of the East (UE), and University addition, offer majors in sports-related disciplines. De La Salle, for its of Sto. Tomas (UST); and winning against part, has a Sports Studies degree program for its student-athletes. National University (NU) at the Ateneo Blue Eagle Gym. The games were held on Dec. By the numbers Data provided by the Office of Sports Development (OSD) 1, 4, 6, and 9. reveal that 42 out of the University’s 446 student athletes—including Bouncing back from their first game loss against those in team B and training pools—are currently taking up Sports the Adamson Spikers , the Green Spikers finished off Studies under the Behavioral Sciences Department of the College NU in four sets, 25-16, 25-18, 22-25, and 25-23. The of Liberal Arts. Ten of the 42 athletes are from the men’s basketball Green Spikers handed the Jhocson-based squad its team, (including training pool member Hyram Bagatsing); six are second straight setback in two outings. from the Green and Lady Tennisters; four students each from the In the game, DLSU grabbed the first two sets, but University’s badminton, football, athletics, and volleyball teams; three faltered in the third. Nonetheless, the team survived Lady Archers; four baseball and softball team members; and one the NU scare and held on to win. each from the Lady Tankers, Green Jins, and Lady Paddlers. Sixteen Despite the victory, Team Captain Justine of the 42 are freshmen, nine are seniors, eight are juniors, seven are Marchadesch said that they collectively were not in their terminal year, and just two are sophomores. There are more satisfied with their performance. Marchadesch shared Sports Studies male students (27) than female students (15). that their main problem is that they tend to be rattled The purpose of Sports Studies, according to Behavioral Science by opponents’ quick plays. The team, he said, needs to professor Dr. Romeo Lee, is to offer students “a multidisciplinary be more consistent, as they already have the necessary perspective of sports in relation to disciplines in the social sciences skills for the game. or in the College of Liberal Arts.” “The idea of sports [in Sports In their first game, the Green Spikers lost to Studies] is that it is a social activity rather than [just] a physical Adamson (25-15, 14-25, 20-25, 21-25). activity,” he said. (Officially, the program’s rationale reads: “a) a Determined to secure a debut victory, the Green careful and systematic examination of the contributing factors and Spikers convincingly won the first set, 25-15. The conditions; b) an unhurried appreciation of its beauty and attraction team, however, seemed to relax in the second set, and and its persistent value; and c) the active reshaping of its stakeholders, the Falcons accordingly took advantage by attacking and the norms and ethics governing it.”) continuously en route to a 14-25 score. The DLSU The course was introduced several years ago for athletes to take squad tried to regain their momentum in the third set, a course related to their sports, though according to Dr. Lee, they are but were once again outplayed by the Falcons, who studying the possibility of having non-athletes enroll in the program. went on to take the last two sets (20-25 and 21-25) to Nonetheless, he thinks there is a market for a sports studies degree secure their first win of the tourney. because the country is “at the core of international sports,” and that According to Green Spiker Emmanuel Boquiren, building up Philippine sports will require skilled human resources in the Green Spikers showed excellent blocking ability the field. Courses in Sports Studies, which total 165 units, are taught throughout the game, but did not serve and receive by professors from different departments, and range from sports first ball well. history, sociology, ethics, and psychology. There are also courses in In their Dec. 6 game against UE, the Spikers lost sportswriting and photography. in three sets: 26-24, 26-24, and 25-16. They also lost When asked about the career opportunities open to student- Captured. A Green Spiker successfully blocks an opponent’s spike. in straight sets to UST last Dec. 9. athletes under the program, Dr. Lee said that these students can either PHOTO BY ERIKA SERRANO be a sports researcher, sports event organizer, a consultant for the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), a writer, or a faculty member; though he pointed out that “it still comes down to what the student achieves during the four years of studying Sports Studies.” And like in other courses, some students do not do well: “Some of them fail to come to class and some of them fail to submit their Hopeful Volleybelles assignments,” Lee noted. He said however that there are instances that they extend deadlines for student work because of competition- begin UAAP campaign related pressures experienced by Sports Studies students. see sports, page 13 by Jefferson Quincy Reyes Team Captain Reiea Saet admitted that who showcased promising performances the key factor in their V-League defeat was the in the V-League. On Dec. 10, the DLSU Lady Spikers team’s inconsistency, which she said marked She said that the road to success began their UAAP Season 70 campaign at the Spikers’ performance throughout the will be tougher this season because the Ateneo Blue Eagle Gym in Katipunan, competition. Either some players would step of the absence of Manilla Quezon City. up and others simply falter, or they become Santos and their lack of After their worst finish yet in the Shakey’s too eager and commit many errors. Saet cited players (especially an open V-League (fifth place), the Lady Spikers as examples the team’s elimination matches spiker). However, Saet is are ready to face their opponents in the against Ateneo, which was a straight-set confident in the philosophy upcoming volleyball tournament. The DLSU win, and the five-set loss to Lyceum of the of Coach De Jesus: “Sa bawat squad finished behind San Sebastian College- Philippines. game, puso ang labanan, kung sino Recoletos, University of Sto. Tomas, Ateneo For the coming UAAP matches, Saet ang aayaw, talo!” (Every game is a test of de Manila University, and Adamson University shared that she and Coach Ramil De Jesus are will; the first one to give up will fail!) in the recently concluded second conference expecting good deliveries from junior players of the V-League. Jacqueline Alarca and Stephanie Mercado, Engage online: www.thelasallian.org www.thelasallian.deviantart.com [email protected]