national situationer commentary Estrada’s pardon, 3 The Student Complaints, 10 What would have been the fate of Dig deeper into the rationale behind former President Joseph Ejercito common student grievances against Estrada had he been a leader of professors in the University. another country? BastionLaSall of issue-oriented criticalia thinkingn vol.vo xll. VxilV no.iI no.4 6 the t officialhe officia studentl studen publicationt publication o Fo deF de la l asalle sall euniversity university 14 november 18 november 2007 2006 Tuition to increase by all-time low 3.61%

By Loraine Saguinsin and Crezeille Francisco

The Student Council’s (SC), the Faculty Association (FA), (SC) proposed 3.61 percent tuition the DLSU Employees Association (DLSUEA) PUSO, and the University fee increase (TFI)—the lowest in Administration. All the sectors in the the University’s history to date—for committee have three representatives, next school year was finally adopted with the exception of the SC which has four. Each sector is only allowed one by the Multi-Sectoral Committee on vote. Budget (MSCB) during the signing Based on estimates shared by SC of the Memorandum of Agreement President Noey Arcinue, the Faculty last Oct. 31, 2007. Association (FA) proposed an increase that ranged from 10 to 12 percent using a purchasing power rationale; According to Yolanda Yao, the DLSU-PUSO put forward a hike chairperson of the MSCB and president of between 2.5 to 2.7 percent, citing of the DLSU-Parents of University inflation figures; the Administration, Students Organization (DLSU-PUSO), meanwhile, set it at 0 to 1.7 percent. this year’s committee was prompt in photo BY Jennerson Ong approving the increase, approving Empowered. Tao Po, a play presented during the GK One World celebration last Oct. 27, where DLSU was a part of. Shown above is a scene Why 3.61 percent? the students’ proposal after only two during the first of three acts, which depicts the Filipino youth. Deliberations on the TFI for next meetings. This year marked the first school year feature proposals from the time that the student sector’s exact previously enumerated sectors, which proposal was adopted by the MSCB. are largely based on next year’s projected Previously, the lowest TFI was at 3.828 inflation rate. percent, approved three years ago (SY A research group led by SC 2004-2005). Sinag ends dream run at Treasurer Reagan Dykimching together The MSCB, which decides the with LA Representative Greggy Chua University’s annual tuition fee increase, and CSO Vice Chairperson Internals is composed of the Student Council World Solar Challenge SEE Tuition, PAGE 9 By Alliv lorelei Samson Lasallians recount Glorietta 2 blast

overing a total distance score of 2,691 km., Sinag, the Philippines’ first fully-functional solar car, was 11th to arrive at By gale maramba the finish line and was ranked 12th overall in the Challenge class of the 2007 Panasonic World Solar Challenge (WSC). CThe 3,000 km race started on Oct. 21 at Hidden Valley Motor Sports Complex in Darwin, and ended last Oct. 28 at On Oct. 19, 2007, the whole Adelaide, Southern Australia. country was gripped with fear, as an explosion rocked the Glorietta 2 Despite being the heaviest and the tallest Sinag overtook a few cars that eventually did section of the Ayala Center in Makati entry in the race, Sinag finished with a day not make it to the finish line. The Philippine to spare and reached the finish line at 4 pm, solar car only needed minor adjustments to its at approximately 1:25 PM. With 11 an hour before the cut-off time of the race brake system on the third day, and maintained people dead and more than a hun- that day. its position for most of the race. dred people injured, the authorities The team achieved its first triumph when Sinag was initially at 35th (inclusive of are exploring a terrorist angle to the Sinag passed the scrutinizing test and the both car classes) to begin the WSC. Then, qualifying events to compete in the Challenge the team passed the first control stop at incident, though the true nature of class of the race. A total of 41 entries took Katherine and climbed to the 21st spot. On the explosion is still unknown. part in the World Solar Challenge: 23 for the the third day, despite problems with the brake photo BY ALVIN LAU Challenge class, and 18 for the Adventure system—which caused the car’s tires to wear Despite initial police reports that photo BY KRIZIA PARAS class. (Challenge class cars were newly built for while the rest of the competition had at least out faster than expected—Sinag reached the speculated that the blast originated from the event. Adventure class cars are those that two years to prepare as regulars in the bien- 11th position. “Every single day we encoun- the ignition of an LPG tank from Luk “It was a bomb” have qualified for any previous event. There nial event. tered problems,” recounted Overall Technical Yuen Noodle House, majority of the One student even had minor wounds is also a Greenfleet technology class “for Team Leader Engr. Rene Fernandez. “Just one people who were present during the ex- on her arm due to the falling debris vehicles demonstrating new [environmentally- The story of the race small mistake and you are out of the race,” plosion believed that a bomb caused the caused by the blast. Anna Leah Pallon (I- conscious] automotive technologies.”) According to Kaiser Fernandez (IV recalled Robert Obilles, the Overall Student explosion, due to the extensive damage POM) stated that she and her friend were Team Sinag was composed of 42 com- ECE), Electrical Student Team Leader, Sinag Leader (IV ME). and casualties. dining at Tokyo Tokyo restaurant when bined faculty and student members; 15 of ran between 50 to 60 km/hr during the race, On day four, Sinag reached Adelaide The Glorietta shopping mall is fre- the blast happened. “The floor just shook those 42 went to Australia. The team had while most of their competitors were on Springs and by that time has traveled 500 km. quented by thousands of shoppers daily, and it felt as if there was an earthquake,” just seven months to complete the solar car, much faster speeds. Despite their safe velocity, According to the World Solar Challenge’s including Lasallians. she described. “The whole place was IN THE KNOW SEE sinag, PAGE 6 SEE lasallians, PAGE 3 THES-QS 2007 rankings released Nobel Prize winners to visit De La Salle Harvard University remained from Scopus rather than Thomson Three Nobel Laureates and an ex- Bank president James Wolfensohn discuss Tomas, and the University of the Philippines on top of the Times Higher ESI; full-time equivalent data for World Bank president will be visiting the “Beyond East-West, North-South: Peace and will join DLSU in welcoming the Nobel Education-Quacquarelli Symonds all personnel-related statistics University between this month to April 2008 Prosperity in a Four Speed World.” Finally, winners. (THES-QS) World University were used; and scores for each as the Philippines co-hosts this year’s Bridges- on April 24, 1996 Peace Prize recipient and Rankings for the fourth straight indicator—peer review, recruiter Dialogues Towards a Culture of Peace with Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos Horta year, with Cambridge, Oxford, review, international faculty Thailand, a program in the tradition of will deliver a lecture on “Building a Culture and Yale rounding out the global ratio, international students ratio, the 14-year old United Nations-sponsored of Peace and Development in a Globalized top five. Tokyo University, at student-faculty ratio, and citations European Peace Summits. World.” number 17, was the highest-rated per faculty—were aggregated to On Nov. 15, 1999 Economics Prize Among the resource persons invited, Asian institution, followed by the a z-score. winner and Columbia University Professor those who will not speak in the University are University of Hong Kong (18th), DLSU was ranked 392nd in Dr. Robert Mundell will deliver a lecture 2004 Economics Laureate Dr. Finn Erling Kyoto University (25th), National last year’s THES-QS survey. The entitled “Economic Development by Fitting Kydland, 1975 Medicine Laureate David University of Singapore (33rd), University of the Philippines, Globalization into the National Development Baltimore, and 2004 Chemistry Laureate and Peking University (36th). according to an announcement in Strategy.” Dr. Mundell is known for his Aaron Ciechanover. For this year’s rankings, THES- its website dated July 23, did not research on the effects of fiscal and monetary In 2003, Thailand became the first Asian QS reported several changes in its participate in the 2007 ranking, policies in open economies. country to host Bridges, which then featured survey methodology: reviewers’ “due to time constraints.” It was On Jan. 10, 2004 Laureate for Physics 26 Nobel awardees and 76 partner institutions. own universities were removed 299th in the 2006 survey. THES- Dr. David Gross from the Kavli Institute Angeles University, the Asian Institute of from distributed questionnaires; QS has yet to release the list of for Theoretical Physics will speak about Management, Ateneo de Davao, Ateneo the applicable citation period was universities ranked 201 to 400 as “The Coming Revolutions in Fundamental de Manila, Mapua Institute of Technology, cut from within the last 10 years to of press time. Physics.” March 6 will then see former World University of San Carlos, University of Sto. the last 5 years, with data coming CLOCKWISE: MUNDELL, GROSS, RAMOS-HORTA, WOLFENSOHN u n i v e r s i t y 2 14 November 2007 THE LASALLIAN ‘Use key locks,’ SC tells Three LA reps to leave SC; impeachment case ongoing

locker users By carlito reyes jr drafted and ratified impeachment code by the Ethics Committee, specifically with regard Halfway through the school to “undermining the integrity of the Student Council” and “gross negligence of duty.” By creizelle francisco ando jose tamayo year, three members of the Student Council’s According to Tullao, Lazo and Arcinue, the (SC) Legislative Assembly (LA) have three of them had a meeting with Ratanchandani or the second term of the school year, either terminated or resigned, and one LA and Teruel, reminding the latter to make a formal the Student Council (SC) has obliged representative is awaiting the resolution of statement addressed to the SC before he leaves for the United States. The SC, however, did not receive locker users to have key-operated instead of impeachment proceedings against him. any letter explaining his absences, but instead got F one addressed to the College of Education (CED) combination locks after several reports of theft-related Carrie Lapitan of FAST 2006 was forced to Vice Dean for the purpose of excusing him from cases were raised, said Student Council (SC) Vice resign as a Legislative Assembly Representative his academic duties. But: “The letter only excuses early this school year for personal reasons. She President for Operations and Communications (VP- him for his academic responsibilities but not from filed a Leave of Absence (LOA) to leave for OPEC) Stacy Carbonel. “Safety is secured since his Student Council responsibilities,” explained another country for about two weeks—rendering Tullao. key-operated padlocks are used,” she reiterated. her ineligible to continue her duties as a member Another problem, Lazo pointed out, was that of the LA. Lapitan has since been replaced by they had no idea Teruel was not enrolled for the an appointed officer from the same batch as Carbonel said that her office is doing its second term—knowing it only when she was asked approved by the LA, according to SC President best to find ways in order to address this problem. by Teruel for help in entering the University’s Noey Arcinue. According to her, reports of thefts were isolated only premises. A similar case arose this term, this time to lockers with combination padlocks. For his part, Teruel, in an open session of the involving Jamie Pengson of EDGE 05. Pengson One instance of reported theft involved a Ethics Committee for his impeachment case last was also forced to resign from her duties to leave book costing P16,000 and borrowed from the Nov. 6, said that the reason why he was unable the country as well. library was stolen from one of the lockers—and to make the letter asked of The most recent was later found in Recto, Manila, a popular place for him was because he was not resignation from the LA came bargain books. Carbonel clarified though that the able to see Ratanchandani’s from Scott Toh of Catch 2009, The complaint, said book found in Recto is an “isolated and solved e-mail reminder to him, and who resigned for personal and case.” (The book was eventually returned to Ethics Committee that he needed to stay longer academic reasons just before he the University Library.) in the United States because was to be filed an impeachment There are currently 285 lockers under the Chairperson Chichi of circumstances beyond his complaint for exceeding the Student Council Centralized Locker System, control. He also apologized for number of allowable absences. Tullao, was prompted and the OPEC is aiming to have lockers placed what happened in the course The LA was divided in all buildings; one goal, at present, is to fill the by Teruel’s five straight of the trial. The on whether to accept Toh’s entire ground floor of the Sports Complex with “We never wanted to go r e v e n u e s resignation, reported SC lockers to be procured over the next few years. The absences in the LA through this impeachment generated from the SC-run locker service, which Executive Secretary Jenn Lazo, SC started the Centralized Locker System during the for this will even question the charges P70 per locker every trimester, go to because its members were sessions. term of last year’s SC VP-OPEC Jhoan Lim. integrity of the SC as a whole, maintenance, the Student Council Assistance Fund afraid of setting a negative The Vice President for Operations also guaranteed but we have to, especially when (SCAF), and Gawad Kalinga. precedent. Eventually however, Toh was allowed the studentry that belongings in the lockers are safe we did our part by reminding him of what he was Freshman Mary Ann Valeros (I-CAM-AMG) to resign. Arcinue reasoned that Toh’s family despite cases of lost items in the locker, especially supposed to do but he did not comply,” justified said that the locker rental offered by the SC is problems were sufficient grounds to let him leave. those found in the Yuchengco building, as long as Ratanchandani. He also emphasized that the really helpful, since she usually has a lot of things “We must choose the lesser [sic] evil, if he willingly users abide by the SC’s rules on locker usage. She also reason why it is important for them to continue to carry. wants to resign, then he should be allowed. It is his urged University sectors to be more careful with their impeachment proceedings is not simply to remove Security guards and Disciple Officers constantly choice, so a person more committed and can do a belongings, because “theft cannot be obsolete.” Teruel from his position, but to assure them that inspect the locker areas to ensure that nothing better job can replace him,” Lazo added. Katrina Ramoso (II-AE-BSC), a student who someone will replace him in the LA sessions. doubtful is taking place, according to Safety and has leased a locker for two consecutive trimesters The impeachment, he said, is ultimately for the Security Office (SSO) Director Dionisio Escarez. and has always used key-operated locks,said that she Impeachment studentry’s sake. now has the tendency to double-check her locker if artwork BY paul matthew jiao On Oct. 22, an impeachment complaint The Ethics Committee has yet to decide on it is really locked. was filed against Vic Teruel from Edge 07 by Teruel’s status, reported Tullao, because he is still the College Assembly of Education President in the process of filing an LOA with the CED Vice Anil Ratanchandani, Lazo, and CED LA Dean. Nonetheless, should Teruel be declared a representatives. The complaint, said Ethics bonafide student, the committee has voted to go Committee Chairperson Chichi Tullao, was on with the trial and endorse it to the LA, which prompted by Teruel’s five straight absences in the has yet to decide what to do with his impeachment LA sessions. (An LA representative can only have as of press time. three unexcused absences.) Teruel’s action also falls under the newly CSO revamps org accreditation

By julie ann yang held from Oct. 15 to 19, with JPIA garnering a score of 92.31 percent; followed by JEMA, In an attempt to incorporate 92.28; and IMES, at 91.80. Rounding out the rest of the top scorers are ENGLICOM student perspectives into organizations’ artwork BY samantha ang (91.71), BMS (91.09), ECES (89.91), CES accreditation process, the Council of (88.95), ECONORG (88.78), SME (88.69), Student Organizations (CSO) has adopted NKK (88.63), ESA (88.13), and CHEMSOC Not so safe after all? what it calls a “re-accreditation model.” (88). Two organizations, according to CSO, did not make the 75 percent passing grade. Now, aside from the report of the executive “It’s a formal and rigorous process, but Fencing team captain Gazel de Guzman well as encounters with strangers and bullies representatives of each organization, the nevertheless a necessity in order to ensure was crossing the street from Starbucks to at night. CSO Executive Board is now provided that organizations deliver quality activities and Jollibee on her way home last Oct. 20, when Also, the survey suggests that the fulfill their mandates to their constituents. For she turned back to see a woman holding her precautions Lasallians frequently take are data, in the form of student survey sheets me however, the CSO re-accreditation should cellular phone and wallet. Before the woman hiding one’s valuables outside DLSU, as and evaluation papers, to help give a more not be the end goal of other organizations. It could go away, de Guzman grabbed the well as brisk walking and going together in appropriate rating for each organization. should serve as a springboard and continuing person’s jacket and began shouting for help. groups. The students surveyed suggested motivation to seek out better things for But to her dismay, “they (the security that the University increase the number of Accreditation will remain twice a year, with organizations and their members,” JPIA guard and pedicab drivers) just told me to hold security guards, and related security and the scores obtained averaged (weighted 40 and President Marvin Chua said. the woman tightly so she would not escape,” lighting facilities around De La Salle. The 60 percent, respectively) at the end of the year. “The main purpose of re-accreditation for de Guzman said. Fortunately, the police came University, they said, could also do a better During the process, organizations, through me is to monitor and ensure that organizations and arrested the woman—later found to be job of orienting members of the community their executive representatives, report to the are indeed providing quality service to the a member of the Sige Sige Sputnik gang; de about security. CSO Board their activities and achievements Lasallian community. However, it does have Guzman has filed a case against the suspect, Security and Safety Office (SSO) Director for that term. The organization is then graded tendencies of making organizations look good though the gang member’s accomplice is still Dionisio Escarez said that his office distributes based on the presentation made. CSO Vice only on paper, so re-accreditation doesn’t on the loose. leaflets to educate students about security Chairperson for Internal Affairs John Benedict really tell us which really is the number one In an informal survey conducted by on campus. He also said that the University Cruz, however, clarified that the new procedure organization in DLSU,” remarked JEMA The LaSallian among 95 students about has hired security personnel to patrol the just “monitors how well organizations are President Alexis Tong. campus security, most respondents agreed campus’ perimeter, and pointed out that doing,” and is not meant to single out any IMES President Victor Cantor, however, that the University has the right security DLSU has closed circuit television cameras “best” organization. was more critical of the process: “I personally measures in place. It also appears that most (CCTV). If an organization fails for the year, it believe that re-accreditation is not necessary criminal incidents in the DLSU vicinity undergoes probationary status for two years, simply because each organization has its own involve stolen cellular phones and jewelry, as and must reach a grade of at least 85 in the identity, meaning many different factors are first accreditation in the third year, or it will be involved which you cannot possibly compare dissolved. with the others.” The most recent re-accreditation was u n i v e r s i t y 14 November 2007 3 THE LASALLIAN Three LA reps to leave SC; impeachment case ongoing

photOS BY ALVIN LAU Break Free. Former president Joseph “Erap” Estrada, now a free man, went to Parola, Tondo last Nov. 11 to visit his household projects, and was warmly welcomed by the people there. National Situationer Would a foreign nation pardon Estrada?

By RAYMUND CUESICo she remained the leader of the Pakistan People’s Party Sofia, officially registered his name to the Peruvian (PPP) and continued to serve as the foremost critic National Electoral Jury during the run-up to the 2006 of the government. After years away from home, Presidential elections, though he was later disqualified. e waited more than six years for a verdict, but it took only 43 days to grant a she decided to return to Pakistan. The dedication of If these deposed politicians are allowed to return to pardon to former President Joseph Estrada. Are Filipinos really that quick to her loyal supporters was proven, as some of them power, then it would be tantamount to saying that the sacrificed their lives in the recent suicide bombing public has forgiven their past transgressions. forgive and forget, or is this really how politics works all over the world? W attack on her convoy while they acted as a human chain In hindsight, Estrada’s non-interest in politics, to protect her. albeit his already advanced age, displays a degree of Fact is, any administration cannot afford to simply acceptance with the way the entire trial process was ignore the influence that popular politicians exert on the conducted and the verdict handed down on him, the ranks in a long political career before they get to Nature of offense masses. These charismatic leaders have a way of rallying although this does not necessarily contribute a valid lead the country. Whether we like it or not, Estrada Parallel to the experience of the Philippines with people to their side, no matter what transgression reason for pardoning him. Other leaders like Fujimori belongs to this group, as he first began as mayor of Estrada is Thailand’s own dealings with its former they have been proven to commit. In the Philippine apparently would like to erase the stigma of being ousted San Juan, then a senator, then vice president before Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Both Estrada set-up, particularly in Estrada’s case, this reality is by returning to power as a sign that the citizens do not becoming president. In the process of rising to power, and Shinawatra were popular among the masses and most probably caused by the people’s hero worship agree with the way he has been treated. Noteworthy is fame, and prestige, political leaders gain not only as a result, were catapulted to the leadership of their of their leaders. Any action of the government that the fact that the Philippine Constitution bars Estrada connections, but also a lot of age. respective countries. While Estrada was charged with is contrary to the opinion of those supporting these from seeking the presidency, whereas Fujimori may still plunder and corruption, Shinawatra was accused of popular politicians will definitely create a backlash that run for President once a probationary period lapses. An example of a leader who was simply too old virtually being a traitor to his nation. The primary may lead to the downfall of the current ruling power. to put to trial is Suharto of Indonesia. Despite the reason for his downfall was the incident that involved In perspective, the mere fact that President Pervez Cutting our losses the sale of 49.6 percent of the Shin Corporation— fact that he allegedly stole close to $35 billion, the Musharraf agreed to the return of Bhutto to Pakistan In many instances, the countries that ousted Indonesian government has been unable to make him and even discussed possible power sharing conditions their leaders were primarily concerned with changing stand trial. After holding public office for almost half with her is even more outrageous than just setting the the existing government set-up and administration, a century, he became too old and sickly to even appear convicted former Philippine president free. so much so that the recovery of the stolen wealth Fact is, any administration before court, and consequently the government was did not become a priority. As long as the leader was unable to recover anything from him. To the credit of cannot afford to simply replaced, the order of the state was restored and the Indonesian government though, they found a way Tenure in power Compared to other world leaders who to file cases against the immediate family of Suharto in ignore the influence that are known for being corrupt, Estrada only order to obtain some compensation from him. popular politicians exert on stayed in office for a relatively short period In many instances, the countries that of time (less than three years). This fact Estrada might not himself be totally incapacitated, the masses. can be interpreted in two ways. One, he but has already reached the age of 70, which according ousted their leaders were primarily has done comparatively less damage than to our current president, qualifies him for an executive his corrupt peers, or two, he has amassed concerned with changing the existing the largest telecommunications operator in Thailand pardon. Aside from this, the six years that he spent so much ill-gotten wealth in a very short owned by Thaksin’s family—to Temasek Holdings, a under house arrest was already considered as jail time government set-up and administration, so period of time. Examples like Suharto and Singaporean company. This was viewed by many as the served. The essence of pardoning those who are 70 Mobutu Sese Seko, former President of much so that the recovery of the stolen sale of an asset of national importance to a foreign and above rests on two major arguments. One, the Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of entity, and eventually resulted in the military coup that inmate would most likely have served for a long period Congo), held the presidency of their nation wealth did not become a priority. took him out of power. of time before reaching the age of 70; two, a convict’s for over three decades, and as such were In perspective, the accusation against Thaksin physical health by this age has likely deteriorated to the able to institutionalize corruption and were weighs a lot heavier than that placed on Estrada’s head. point wherein serving a jail sentence becomes inhuman also responsible for generations of their countrymen ordinary life resumed. The fundamental difference in Even if there was betrayal of public trust when Estrada and unbearable. But six years is nothing compared to growing in extreme poverty and widespread suffering. the Philippines is that we expect retribution alongside committed the act of plunder, he did not go as far as the decades that some inmates serve, and Estrada is Mobutu was exiled to Morroco when he was justice. Our nation’s impoverished state has apparently selling his nation to foreigners. Surrounding the main still visibly fit for his age. In the process of comparing deposed, and that was just about all the punishment pushed us to the brink of zero tolerance for any form issue of the sale is the swift approval of the law that these two situations, it becomes rather clear that under that he received. He died of prostate cancer after only of material loss. Every time we are wronged, we seek allowed Thaksin’s family to execute the sale without the Indonesian setup, Estrada would still be serving four months in exile. Estrada’s house arrest might not just compensation. paying taxes. To some observers, this was a great abuse his sentence along with being compelled to return the have been as long as a normal life sentence would last, The most glaring example would be the countless of power for personal gain. Even though formal money that he obtained illegally while in power. but his time in heading the government was not that court cases filed against the late Ferdinand Marcos and investigations were conducted, the ex-Prime Minister long either. his entire family that aim to not only convict them of got off the hook rather easily, as he was cleared of any their crimes, but also to receive monetary benefit in misdeed with regard to the tax issue. Currently, even Outpouring of support return for the plaintiffs’ undue sufferings. though Thaksin is banned from entering politics for Throughout President Estrada’s imprisonment, he Running again for office Overall, the fact that the pardon covers only the next five years, he is still free to return to Thailand, was never lacking in support. This was most evident One of the added reasons given for Estrada’s the prison sentence and not the recovery of the ill- where his safety is personally guaranteed by Prime during the last midterm elections, when he was still swift pardon was his public commitment not to run gotten wealth, makes the Philippine situation rather Minister Surayud Chulanont. regarded as the leader of the opposition despite a again for any elected post in government. This area unique compared to other nations that have similar supposedly tainted reputation. In the international of concern is one of the more controversial issues experiences. With regard to the initial question posted, scene, Benazir Bhutto, former prime minister of in the case of Peru’s Alberto Fujimori. After being Respect for elders it would seem that Estrada would not only be pardoned Pakistan, has experienced a similar situation. Despite ousted by Congress, Fujimori sought refuge in Japan, Obtaining the highest position in the land is no in a foreign land, he might even be made to come back the fact that her government was dissolved twice on where he planned his comeback into Peruvian politics. simple matter. Most world leaders have to go through to office—just like in the movies. corruption charges and was forced to leave the country, Despite being given a 10-year ban, his daughter, Keiko

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covered in white smoke, and the ceiling started to fall. they stated. “The damage was too extensive and point, they vacated the area quickly. “There were still Recent Developments People were shouting so loudly everywhere.” the blast was really loud; I think a bomb caused the some people who didn’t know what was going on, The Philippine National Police (PNP) has been Pallon and her companion, together with the explosion” Villaflores added. some were still sitting down,” she added. insisting that the explosion was caused by the build restaurant’s cashier and waiter, ran toward the fire The bomb theory initially gained widespread When asked about her opinion about the pos- up of methane gas in the basement of Glorietta 2 or exit. “It was a bomb. I don’t have a doubt about interest as Chief Inspector Reynold Rosero of the sible cause of the explosion, she stated that it is the ignition of stored diesel reserves, despite the fact it,” she said. Philippine Bomb Data Center said that traces of possible that an LPG tank indeed caused it. “It is that their inquiry on the incident has yet to conclude. possible because the blast came from a restaurant. A group of freshmen International Studies stu- Royal Demolition Explosive (RDX) were found in This finding, they say, is backed up by foreign inves- And I don’t want to think that it was really a bomb. dents were also present during the blast. They were in the ruins of Glorietta 2. tigators from the United States, Australia and Israel. It’s a really scary possibility,” Balagtas stated. different places when it occurred. Steff Genato was On the other hand, Ayala Land Incorporated has The past few years have been witness to numer- dining at Food Choices, Kim Ngui was at the Nike said that its own foreign consultants have concluded Terrifying Implications ous bomb threats in public areas like malls—threats store, and Charmaine Villaflores was in the parking that the explosion could not have originated from Marit Balagtas (I AB-POM) was able to witness mainly attributed to forces supposedly out to desta- area when the explosion happened. “The blast was the combustion of methane or diesel. firsthand the panic that the explosion caused. “Me bilize the government. In response, security in malls really loud and shards of glass exploded along with Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay has called for an and my friends were dining at Food Choices. I stood and public transport has been beefed up, with security it,” Ngui stated. “I also heard three blasts. There independent probe to look into the explosion. up, and that was when I saw people running from a guards routinely conducting bag inspections. wasn’t only one,” Villaflores added. Shortly after the distance. We eventually asked a saleslady and she told blast, they quickly vacated the mall premises. us that a bomb just exploded,” Balagtas said. At that “We don’t believe that an LPG caused the blast,” o p i n i o n 4 14 November 2007 THE LASALLIAN Editorial Sunrise In the welcoming based on what precedent it will set for the ceremony for members of Team University and the country. Sinag last Wednesday, heaps of Fortunately, if the Sinag experience has praise was showered on the students taught us anything, it is that this country has the resources to invest seriously in science and faculty from the College of and technology. What the University needs Engineering (COE) that made possible to do now is take the lead role in educating the Philippines’ first fully-functional, Filipinos about alternative energy and in internationally competitive solar car. exploring the practical and theoretical After all, the health and mechanical possibilities that Sinag has opened. But risks the Australian outback presented first, we will all need to move past that to participants made even finishing euphoric sense of accomplishment from the race an achievement in itself. Not having Sinag. That the idea of competing all teams were as lucky, or as prepared in the World Solar Challenge did not come from the University but from Ford for the desert: Early Adventure Class Philippines, in this regard, should remind favorite Equinox from Stanford the academic community that we would not University, for instance, did not even have had anything to be proud of had Ford get to cross the finish line due to Chairperson Henry Co not asked DLSU to problems with its tires. Sinag, on the get on board the solar car project. other hand, placed twelfth among The capability to build on Sinag’s 23 entries in the Challenger Class. technology will also depend on the (Preliminary results, in fact, had Sinag University’s willingness to share at eleventh place—just a few hours shy its knowledge with other Philippine institutions. Again, there should be no of a top ten finish—after it reached reason why DLSU can’t be more open Adelaide with a day to spare.) regarding the science behind Sinag, as observed by Student Team Leader Robert So make no mistake about it: For Obilles, if it really wants the project to simply having the audacity to field a car make a long-lasting impact; we welcome to the Panasonic World Solar Challenge the day UP, Mapua, and similar science and (WSC)—not to mention doing it in just engineering schools can compete alongside seven months and with flying colors— De La Salle in the WSC, because that can Team Sinag deserves all the applause it has only mean a more secure energy situation For comments and suggestions: gotten thus far. Nonetheless, we strongly for the Philippines. believe that focusing solely on what the Within the University, Sinag’s triumph team has achieved in Australia would be should motivate more students and faculty www.thelasallian.org seriously misguided, and would represent to engage more interesting and relevant a tremendous waste of potential. problems in and out of the classroom. Sinag’s success demands follow- Initiatives that foster original, inventive [email protected] through. On a positive note, the team’s thinking such as the Massachusetts members have expressed a remarkable Institute of Technology’s PESO challenge thoughts eagerness to build a successor to Sinag. deserve more attention on campus. That should set the tone and provide (There are probably other undertakings as the momentum required of committed noteworthy as Sinag in DLSU that remain research and sustained ventures into cheap, in obscurity.) There can be more avenues Second Lex Aeterna renewable energy sources. With the global and better incentives for students to pursue thoughts price of oil set to reach $100 per barrel in a projects like Sinag—something the Student matter of months, Sinag’s entry into public Handbook revisions committee, which consciousness could not have come at a Remaining neutral and inanimate is tantamount to contributing begins discussions this month, should to the cause of evil more appropriate and urgent time. keep in mind. Raymund Cuesico Which is why we disagree with the To a university that sees itself as the Chancellor’s assertion that “all that matters best in the country, Sinag should not be The greatest gift we possess is the ability to bypass this socio-economic pandemic. One of the and forming it according to our own is that we’re the first to build a solar car in the light at the end of the tunnel, but the reason and simply follow our hearts. most appreciated tidbits of learning that I design. Can we not choose to focus all our the country.” On the contrary, over time, beginning of an adventure. we think Sinag’s worth will be judged was able to pick up in college is the concept research efforts on projects that will help o Good, Avoid Evil. This is the of charging interest for borrowed money us preserve and restore the pristine beauty most basic ideological framework across time. From this lesson, I realized of our environment? The Dthat brings about order in our that it is this embedded principle that drives Even academic matters must not be chaotic world. Virtually every religion the economic classes to become further spared of moral criticism. I am appalled LaSallian preaches some form of ethical and moral divergent. Simply put, it takes money to by the reality that the youth now considers The bastion of issue-oriented critical thinking law that constrains, prescribes, and classifies make even more money. Logically, if you cheating their way to a degree as part of the actions of man. Unfortunately, people do not have money in the first place, then their normal everyday lives. Just recently, 14 november 2007 have all but neglected this eternal law, and you would have a limited opportunity to I was shocked to overhear a group of have instead crafted their own perverted make any economic progress. Even with the students, supposedly responsible and Ed i t o r in Ch i e f Paulo Jose Mutuc sense of purpose that drives them to seek presence of financial lending institutions, running for honors, casually talking about As s o c i a t e Ed i t o r alejandro Almendras IV only what is perceived to be advantageous there is always this added burden to surpass the academic malpractices going on in their Ma n a g i n g Ed i t o r Josef Aaron Lim and beneficial to their individual souls. the already steep interest rates being charged classrooms. These misdeeds ranged from Un i v e r s i t y Of f i ce r In Ch a r g e Raymund Cuesico A look at the very concept of good just to earn. As a result, businessmen are simple copying of answers to the creation Me n a g e r i e Ed i t o r angela Velasco and evil reveals that it is rather intriguing in forced to raise prices in order to provide a of elaborately designed codes used to Sp o r t s Of f i ce r In Ch a r g e Camille Bianca Pinto itself. Evil directly refers to the absence of buffer commonly called profit. Can we not transmit information between people when Ar t & Gr a p h i c s Ed i t o r Carmela Prado good, but not the other way around, so that have that extra sense of goodness to realize no such form of communication is allowed. Ph o t o Ed i t o r Jennerson Ong we have to exert extra effort just to make that for every small amount that businesses The only bright spot in their discussion Ci r cu l a t i o n s Ma n a g e r Stacy Ybud our actions produce a net positive result. raise their profit margin, we eat up a more was when they shared their prior belief Of f i ce Ma n a g e r Krizia Martha Carriaga Merely doing what is expected of us does significant portion of what the poor could that indeed cheating is wrong. While it is not qualify as a good deed, whereas merely possibly spend on basic needs? true that the moral fabric of society has Un i v e r s i t y Joyce Anne Alfonso, Creizelle Francisco, Criscel Lamsin, Loraine Saguinsin, Alliv Samson, Francesca Sta. Ana breaking the rules is immediately considered Entrenched in the workings of increased its tolerance of wrongdoings, evil. Remaining neutral and inanimate is economics is the now popular topic of we should remain vigilant and aware that Me n a g e r i e Jemimah Ang, Marie Beatrice Angeles, Marielle Antonio, Nazrin tantamount to contributing to the cause of our environment. It is fact that the world’s such actions are evil. In a way, the common Camille Castro, Jensen Bryan Ching, Nancy Chua, Ali Caronongan, Rosanna evil as it produces no concrete contribution natural resources are being consumed perception is that as long as students Guintivano, Jabin Landayan, Sam Modina, Yasmin Najib, Elvin Ngo, Darcy to better our world. and destroyed way faster than they can achieve high grades, they remain to be Reburiano, Carmela Sioco In a perfectly competitive environment, be replenished. Currently, efforts are good students regardless of what they do Sp o r t s Michelle Andrews, Philip Andrew Ang, Johannes Chiong, Ramon Carlo the gains of one results in the loss of others. being made worldwide to stop this gross to achieve it. Can we not look beyond the Cruz, Julius Joseph Fabreag, Jed Aureus Gonzales, Celine Anne Hernandez, Inasmuch as I would like to think that every abuse of mother earth. Unfortunately, temptation of taking the easy way out and Ma. Linda Provido, Michael Gerard Sy person could strive to improve and better our situation requires a lot more than just instead be honest about our own personal himself, we all have to accept reality that damage control, as there looms the bigger capabilities and limitations? Ph o t o Kimberly Go, Erick Jao, Alvin Lau, Ian Meru, Angeline Perez our actions have repercussions on other issue of changing the modern lifestyle of On a positive note, I was surprised to Ar t & Gr a p h i c s Samantha Ang, Angela Kristine Garcia, Frank Herrera, Paul people. The best analogy that I have heard man and replenishing what has been lost. discover three wonderful traits that continue Matthew Jiao, Sheryl Lagrosas, Beatrice Ong, Abdul Rafi Onos, John Ian Roman, so far regarding this matter likened the In this regard, technology plays a pivotal to reside among us through the shining Allen Silva, Brian Christian Uy presence of an individual in a particular role, since it is the source of both the examples of my fellow delegates in the area to a rock creating ripples in a pond. solution and the problem. While it is true recently concluded National Symposium of Se n i o r Co r r e s p o n d e n t s Christine Mendoza, Candace Daphne Ting Every time we make a decision between that man has mined all the earth for the raw Young Lasallians. First, there is happiness Ad v i s e r Dr. Noelle Leslie dela Cruz right and wrong, we create a resonating materials in the name of fueling research and joy to be found in the service of others. 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 sound that proclaims which side we favor. developments, there is still great potential Second, true love, which is selfless and 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 The more people profess their allegiance for a clean and green future as alternative makes us care more about someone special. to one side, the greater is the imbalance and renewable sources of energy are being Lastly, the greatest gift we possess is the that is created. explored. Personally, I am most intrigued ability to bypass reason and simply follow The LaSallian has its editorial office at 502 Bro. Gabriel Connon Hall, De La Salle University, Mendicancy and its exponential spread at the possible extent with which we can our hearts. Ultimately each one of us has 2401 Taft Avenue, Manila 1004. TLS can be contacted through telephone number 5244611 loc. over the growing population has always recycle materials. Existing technology what it takes to abide by the eternal law; we 701, or through its e-mail address, [email protected]. All contributions are subject to puzzled me, since there are so many people, already allows us to construct robots just have to will it. editing for clarity or space. None of the contents of this publication may be reprinted without even influential and powerful ones, who using nanotechnology that are capable of the express written permission of the Editorial Board. openly and aggressively attempt to stave off rearranging the basic structure of matter o p i n i o n 14 November 2007 5 THE LASALLIAN Chances We're not going to pay rent Alphabet Fire in the are soup belly Time and again, we remind the administration that any change We need to get away from Alejandro Almendras IV affecting student life must be confronted to the students. Paulo Jose Mutuc “let’s move on” mentality

ct. 24, 2007—Amid an how much this government claims unusually tense and gloomy otherwise, the long-term survival of Onational situation just days our democracy depends on more removed from the Glorietta 2 explosion people becoming vocal with hard and merely hours before what was an line opinions, while remaining open- impending grant of pardon to former minded and visibly engaging others to President Joseph Estrada, the Supreme challenge theirs. We need conservatives Court gave the Filipino people a and libertarians, not overly broad reason—actually, two reasons—to coalitions that have no well-defined hope: Two writs of amparo became policy positions. We need bloggers and effective on that day, compelling no pundits willing to stake their reputations less than the President and the Armed in the public arena. Ultimately, we need Forces of the Philippines to explain to rekindle that passionate love affair the disappearances of University of we’ve always had with words and the Philippines (UP) students Karen speeches, with ideas and ideals. Empeno and Sherelyn Cadapan, as well Our so-called “institutional fatigue” as the experiences of siblings Raymond with rhetoric certainly hasn’t always and Reynaldo Manalo, who escaped been there. I can recall some specific from military custody. instances in our history when lively, To better understand and appreciate intellectual disputes were the norm this action of the Court, consider the in Filipino public life. The street following: A few months back (July to parliamentarians in Luneta trace be exact), the Supreme Court convened their roots to the witty Spanish-era a multi-sectoral consultative summit balagtasan, and were probably inspired to draft solutions to what seemed in later years by debates in the nearby an ongoing and unabated manhunt old Senate. (Platypus Publishing’s 20 For comments and suggestions: against progressive elements of society. Speeches That Moved a Nation, in this Toward the same end, last year’s Task regard, is an essential compendium.) Force Usig and Melo Commission— The writings of Rizal, Del Pilar, and www.thelasallian.org the former formed by the Philippine their compatriots provoked not a few National Police, the latter created by Filipinos (though most likely indirectly [email protected] virtue of an executive order—sought due to the propagandists’ use of the to find conclusive answers, but were Spanish language, as historians will hindered by militant groups’ wariness point out) to set in motion the 1896 about their credibility. Earlier this year, Revolution. The proud tradition of a Brownian Of liberation and mind games even the United Nations—perhaps critical free press begun by that group motion moved by the government’s general of European-educated Filipinos in It surprised me that adults of supposedly “mature” age were indecisiveness to concretely saw it fit to the 19th century found its proudest not open-minded to the more rational aspects of the tradition send Human Rights Special Rapporteur moments in the years leading to the Angela Velasco they believe in. Philip Alston to inquire about the two EDSAs, when citizens united extrajudicial killings. And just last week, themselves around an activist media rowing up, faith was an soft-spoken in disagreement. A lot tradition is only being upheld since the national government reported movement that spawned, among idea that was easily handed of my other friends who have studied this has been passed on, “tried and that the United States Congress— others, the Philippine Daily Inquirer Gto me. Having studied in conservative Catholic high schools tested,” and upheld by millions over which itself facilitated hearings on and Bulatlat.com. in a conservative Catholic school, also experienced such suppression, the past centuries. It is not a matter the matter—was making further Sadly, our experiences with erratic believing in God and Christian morals unable to decide what to do with of imposing ideas for the youth, military assistance contingent on the development, stop-start reforms, one must uphold came so “easily,” such conflicting, free-flowing but but rather teaching the youth what assurance that the military and higher and leaders and commentators of since my innocence did not question more sensible ideas. It surprised me they know to be good and true. levels of government were following questionable character has led many the black and white picture they that adults of supposedly “mature” However, this is not the impression Alston’s recommendations and taking of us to abhor eloquence altogether. seemingly portrayed. Tradition was age were not open-minded to the that most people in our generation get. concrete steps to end what Amnesty (It hasn’t helped that politicians in firmly set both at home and at school, more rational aspects of the tradition Instead, we are constantly frustrated International has dubbed “a pattern both chambers of Congress have with the supposedly “blasphemous” they believed in. Take that sexist idea and feel oppressed with our ideas. of impunity.” reduced the once-privileged privilege ideas being rejected during theological we were taught less than three years The supposed “forward” thinking Intriguingly, while the Arroyo speech to an exercise in showboating.) lectures since my teachers insisted ago: It’s a woman’s fault if she wears education is supposed to promote is Administration reported compliance Sometime ago, we stopped listening they would send me straight to hell. something revealing and gets raped. no longer felt. with the American conditions for aid, and caring. The result? We’ve had It was Jostein Gaarder’s Sophie’s In a country where the Catholic Another reasonable explanation it slapped Administrative Order 197 anywhere from 300 to 800 journalists World that changed my life, opening me Church’s traditions remain ever so behind this would be that teaching on Sept. 25—the same day the Writ of and activists killed over the past two up to new ideas that stood outside the influential in the government, family these traditions are in hopes of Amparo was promulgated—to claim years, yet there has been no convincing conservative realm I had been raised life, and the educational system, I providing a solid foundation for “executive privilege” and effectively signs of widespread public outrage. in. I experienced the most vibrant wonder how far this inhibition of the students. Since these teachers prevent having military personnel This year alone, we came across a exchange of philosophies, which dared “opposing” ideas will take the large have the responsibility of guiding appear in court when served with the 12-year old girl who took her own to challenge the simple picture of population of students in conservative students during their more formative writ. Thus, we are now confronted with life out of sheer hopelessness in the “good” and “evil” painted by religion schools. It is only in college that most years, they hope to inculcate the a largely unnoticed but nonetheless middle of poverty (Mariannet Amper classes only based on tradition passed are able to experience the freedom values that they feel have brought crucial “battle royale,” in the words of Davao), a state offender given a free down from generation to generation. to develop their “off-tangent” ideas, about only the best during their time. of former Chief Justice Artemio pass at redemption, an outrageously The concept of an absolute being exchange insights with a right mix Although the youth deserve their Panganiban, between the executive and covered-up state broadband deal, and was no longer limited to someone of people, and be able to make their right to freely think, they still need the judiciary. a government that isn’t afraid to give simply adored and obeyed, but whose own decisions in the kind of faith or guidance from the more experienced In the face of such a serious P500,000 outright to local officials. existence and influence on the world spirituality they want to believe in. and knowledgeable mentors that their impasse (not to mention one that What’s it going to take to make us all was questioned. The things taught to Is our education really pushing the parents relied on in order to develop carries so much legal implications), vocal and angry? me were no longer at opposite sides youth forward? their thinking for the future. what every self-respecting citizen ought The reason why we’ve constantly of the spectrum. Instead, the dark and Although a deeper problem lies in Although many will only reach the to do, of course, is take a side—so had frustrations with sweeping reform light colors had converged, making the lack of books and classroom for peak of their intellectual development seriously, if I may add, as if one’s movements as a people is that we did it difficult for me to place what was public schools, one should not ignore during college, it is still important opinion were to lead to the greatest not have the courage and the conviction really right and wrong. the lack of truly stimulating discussion that those who favor the uptight good if everyone believed so (Kant’s to see them through. Looking back at The confusion involved was quite that allows students to think for traditional education still realize its categorical imperative, for all those who the outcomes of the two EDSAs (the difficult for me to overcome. Through themselves and make their own disadvantage. True, the youth needs have forgotten INTPHIL). In this case, two best chances we’ve had at national my last years in high school, I went decisions in incorporating the new much guidance during their more guess it is clear from the outset whose transformation since World War II), into some sort of rebellion against insights they learn with their previous formative years. Nonetheless, this side I am on, but I will be more than I guess it would be fair to say that we the religious traditions forced and knowledge. It is not favorable that the guidance should not be one that stops willing to listen to someone who will didn’t “walk the talk”; we fell victims to repeated into my system. I greatly professor’s ideas are simply absorbed them from going forward in what they disagree and argue that this government our ningas kugon tendency. disliked the religious discourse of my by the student because “they say so.” believe in and learning new ideas from is on the right side of things. Rhetoric, of course, could only get teachers in high school, since one’s What brand of learning and what all kinds of people. We live in a world The point is this: We need to get us so far. But at a time when even the opposing opinion did not matter and kind of thinkers do these conservative progressing through globalization; away from that “let’s move on”/ultra- fieriest of words cannot even provoke a only the book or teacher’s stand was teachers hope to achieve with such a world wherein the human race is cynical mentality about Philippine response, one can only shudder at what the absolute truth. Afraid of discipline forms of discussion? constantly driving itself to reach its governance and get back to substantive, new low our political state of affairs will records being tainted and causing A likely counterargument in full potential. Who are they to stop the vigorous, and partisan debate about the sink to next until we find our voice and some sort of scandal, most were response to all this would say that young ones from such progress? issues that matter. Because no matter say, “Enough.” o p i n i o n u n i v e r s i t y 6 / 14 November 2007 THE LASALLIAN

sinag from page 1 Provisional results, Sinag climbed to 21st place “No incentive was needed. We just thought Shaft Recognition from 27th overall and maintained its 11th place of it as a long final exam – without a grade,” within the Challenge class. The next day, Sinag Obilles said in reference to the students’ and art breached the 2,000 km distance from Darwin to faculty members’ efforts during the project. “We It’s not only respect that you give people when Cadney, and easily surpassed the 1,000 km mark still have to make our thesis papers, this is not yet Josef Aaron Lim you pray for them, but also recognition without having to rely on auxiliary power. This it,” explained Fernandez. “Unforgettable are our option was allowed by contest rules, but would sleepless nights” replied Engr. Mallari. Villena have resulted in a deduction in the team’s overall shared that they had to learn to properly budget ecognition is defined as the appreciation or acclaim from previous encounters. My family decided to visit our score. their time while working for Sinag. for an achievement, service, or ability. Last Oct. relatives in Albay because of the long weekend brought “At first you want to win, but as we progressed There wasn’t much sunlight on the last day R27, The LaSallian recognized the excellent works about by the holidays. The trip was not an ordinary one we learned a lot from our experiences,” said Engr. of the race, but Team Sinag nonetheless finished and best staff from last school year’s issues through the like meeting some relatives: It was a family reunion. The Noriel Mallari, Electrical Team Adviser. earlier than expected. “This is how Lasallians work Silver Quill Awards. It is an awards night that gets together last time I saw my cousins and my hometown was seven Upon reaching the finish line, the team was together in the worst conditions,” narrated Br. present staff and alumni annually. This is done on the years ago. We spent four days in the place, but it felt so welcomed by Adelaide Mayor Michael Harbison, Armin. “It was enough that I may not see the sun, month when the publication celebrates its anniversary. short because of the so many things we wanted to do, and Hans Tholstrup (the founder of the WSC and the but I know the sun shined brighter in the Animo,” The night started with dinner, then some performances by the so many memories to remember as a family. I needed first person to cross Australia in a solar car), the he emphasized. staff and some talents outside the publication. It continued stories to relive my memories and make me realize and champion Nuon Solar Team from the Delft Uni- with the awarding proper with some introduction about prove that Albay was really my hometown. We reminisced versity of Technology Netherlands, and Filipinos Rare opportunity the publication. Being part of the audience, it was very about my father’s school, house, mother’s workplace, my from Australia. “They did not know us, but they “Do you think your engineering students are good seeing the staff having a good time with each other, sister’s school, and the church where I was baptized. I waved proudly the flag,” observed University Presi- capable of building a solar car?” asked an alumnus not to mention seeing the smiling faces when they received spent time too with my eight cousins, and we stayed in dent Br. Armin Luistro, referring to the Filipinos to Dr. Quebengco. Her reply was unhesitating: their awards for last school year’s works. Also present were one house. The whole thing was a totally new experience, who received them in Adelaide. “Yes, of course; that is what they are studying some new staff that were recruited from this school year. since there were really a lot of people with me--something here”. You could see in their faces the drive to do so well this which I am no longer used tosince I have lived alone for Man against the desert An hour and a half later, the Chancellor year to earn Silver Quill awards next school year. the past year. To add to that, I met aunts and uncles that “[The] Challenge [was] more [about living] received a call from Henry Co, chairman of Ford Recognition is the acknowledgement of something’s I met for the first time. Overall, it was good to recognize outside the road,” said Mechanical Student Team Group Philippines, to confirm if Lasallians were existence. All Saints’ and All Souls’ Day are holidays spent people I have been with before. Leader Mico Villena (IV ME). “It was our first indeed willing to build a solar car. Dr. Quebengco in the cemetery with relatives and loved ones who have Recognition, unfortunately, is something that a lot time to go three days without taking a bath,” affirmed this, and they agreed to meet that after- passed away. I have always thought that these days were of people neglect, despite the fact that it’s easy to do and Fernandez revealed. noon. for us to give respect to the dead, and why we go to the can be done in so many ways. A smile and a pat on the Time was very crucial. Early in the morning, After the phone call, Dr. Quebengco im- cemetery and visit them. Maybe I have this notion because back are simple signs of sincere recognition. These little the team had to position the solar cells facing mediately called for Dr. Pag-asa Gaspillo, dean I have been visiting the same people every year. This year things can be done everyday to make someone feel good. the sun in order to start charging the battery, and of the College of Engineering and Dr. Julius B. though, things was different. I visited my grandfather and Done consistently, they can push people to do better in proceed to pack up late at night. The very cold Maridable, vice chancellor for academics, to talk grandmother from my father’s side of the family. I usually what they do. temperature in the Australian desert during the about the proposed plan and prepare a list of the don’t get to do this since they are buried in Albay while I Recognition fosters a happy and lively environment. dawn and the evening made it even more difficult team members to be readily presented to the Ford have always been in Cebu or in Manila. It is vital among family or friends. I am sharing these for the team members to attend to their personal Chairman. I realized from our visit that it’s not only respect experiences of recognition because I felt so good being needs. “Opportunities are sometimes like that; we that you give people when you pray for them, but also with other people during the past few days. I realized “In the desert where there are no facilities, have to make decisions and calculate risks,” retold recognition. My grandfather died before I was born. My that the reason was the recognition I gave these people. the Animo shines so brightly,” declared Br. Armin Dr. Quebengco, “[I thought that] this is a great grandmother died on the same year I was born. Basically, It also made me feel good because, in some way, I faced during the Welcoming Celebration last Nov. 7 at opportunity for DLSU students.” I didn’t really get to meet them or have any memories with the reality I was in. Sometimes we also have to recognize the M. Gaerlan Conservatory. At the end of the meeting with Co, the Chan- them. But my visit to their tombs made me acknowledge the life we have lived, the life we are living, and the life “We were one of those entries that many were cellor, together with Drs. Gaspillo and Maridable, their existence; that they were my relatives and that though we are planning to live. excited to see; together with Senegal, Venezuela, agreed on several important points: that the I didn’t get to meet them, they remain a big part of my The LaSallian is recruiting new staff. The publication and Chile,” revealed Engr. Fernandez. Unfor- whole project will be gratis, that faculty members life. They have influenced me in some way with the stories recruits not only to involve students in the work of tunately, USB Solar of the Venezuela team had will guide the students, and that the majority of my dad shares to me about them. producing relevant output, but to recognize the talents problems with the arrival of some parts of their car the team will be students. Engr. Noriel Mallari The dead may have “passed away,” but they still that students have in writing and in the arts. Through The in Australia. But while their competitors offered elaborated: “The setup is that we faculty, will make need the recognition that they have existed to truly rest LaSallian, students can hone and improve their skills to spare parts to team Venezuela, the team still did designs and that the students will give feedbacks in peace. prepare them for the bigger world of journalism. not make it for the race, as told by Sinag’s Overall and they will implement it.” Recognition is the identification of a thing or person Student Leader Robert Obilles. Dr. Quebengco said that the whole project Interestingly, “The information about the was strictly on schedule and that the race itself project is classified here in the country; unlike in has been very stressful. the race [where] everyone shares their knowledge, Wisdom Shame and choice talks about their technology and car, and even their Lasallian pride strategy,” commented Obilles. “The project was innovating. A lot of infor- seeker Dr. Carmelita Quebengco, DLSU Manila mation that was needed for the project was not Chancellor believes that the WSC “was a very learned in the classrooms but during the duration The masses have to realize that if Erap can’t stand by healthy competition. It was not putting one an- of the whole project,” Engr. Mallari said Carmela Prado his word, what more by his people? other down. I find the crab mentality in Filipino “Someone wants to buy the technology,” competitions very distracting. And that I was glad Dr. Quebengco relayed during the Homecoming oting is a right you can always choose to exercise, adulthood. Pledging to study in order to bring more food that the students were exposed to this kind of celebration, “but I told them ‘No, it is not for sale. but only few choose to use it responsibly. The to the table and gain a little bit more success in life, she healthy competition.” “It was memorable how the This is for our country.’ ” The Chancellor said that barangay elections last October allowed me to asked help from her aunt in order to finish tertiary level teams competed,” concurred Obilles. there was even a billion pesos being offered for V SINAG’s technology.:“This is how important this exercise this right the first time. It is sad and disappointing education. She worked as an assistant in her aunt’s office, to see that even simple rules put up by the Comelec are and went to school during weekends. Luckily, she finished Br. Armin is the team’s 16th member project is, not only for [De] La Salle, but for the not complied with. Imagine, even the young candidates college with a satisfactory grade despite her condition. “The support was amazing!” said Villena. whole country.” running for Sangguniang Kabataan positions were still Where is she now? Already married in her early 20s to a Team Sinag was surprised by the presence of Br. wearing awkward smiles while giving out flyers. All knew man who can pass as his father and who she hardly knows. Armin. As stated in Dr. Quebengco’s speech dur- The future is bright that any form of campaign was already banned on the Maybe you are wondering why she did it. I am too. ing the Homecoming, “It was the first project that “If there will be another SINAG, I will give day of election, but no one was following or reinforcing They say that college graduates tend to be more went abroad with the president of DLSU.” again all my effort,” pledged Engr. Isidro Marfori, rules. Picture 41,000 more barangays doing the same idealistic. After spending at least three years in a learning The 15-man team in Australia never expected CAD Team Adviser. “Thank you for believing,” thing. Kids in our rural neighborhood playing patintero institution in the tertiary level, that institution would want that the president of DLSU-Manila and De La spoke a very grateful Engr. Emmanuel Gonzalez, a decade ago knew more about rules than these people. to believe that it has equipped its graduating students with Salle Philippines himself will camp with them dur- while being handed an award during last week’s Why am I not surprised that a former president of this the necessary knowledge they need to pursue their careers. ing the 3,000 km race at the Austalian desert. “We celebration. country convicted of plunder and sentenced to a life Colleges also make us believe that we can change the nation, are honored to be with him. When we got there, “Without Sinag 2, this exercise is futile in prison was easily granted with executive clemency? and even the world, if we make the right choices in life. he was even the one offering his services, which is because we won’t be passing the knowledge we Shame on our president, shame on our fellow Filipinos As students go out to the world and realize what not to be expected from VIPs,” reported Obilles. learned,” furthered Engr. Fernandez. “As a faculty who support this injustice, shame on our democratic our alma maters want us to believe, unfortunately, Br. Armin, he said, wanted to learn more about member it is our rule to share our knowledge and country. I believe that the Filipino people was deprived everyone else—especially the older ones—will give the solar car so that he would be able to help the that we learn a lot,” confirmed Engr. Mallari. of justice when former president Joseph Ejercito Estrada them a smirk in the face and tell them to “get a grip.” team in tasks like changing the car’s tires. The team is already excited about the pos- was granted pardon by our current president. A man We have to understand that what we are learning here One morning when the team was fixing a few sibility of a Sinag 2, such that they have already convicted beyond reasonable doubt for stealing millions in the University has its own blind spots in application to minor problems in the car, Br. Armin served them taken note of what details to improve on to win of pesos straight from the pocket of Juan dela Cruz has real life contexts, because they tend to be always complex. coffee. “The only thing I can do well is to serve the next race. been easily freed from the crimes he had committed. However, this complexity should not give us the excuse coffee to them,” the Brother President candidly “[The] key to winning the race is the telemetry, He has “suffered” comfortably enough for six and to turn our backs on what we want to do in life and what remarked. He also cooked for the team what he and that strategy is important,” explained Engr. half years during the duration of his house arrest. He changes we envision around us. Older people expect called “FSC rice,” and drove the team’s van while Mallari. Finding the optimum speed with which doesn’t deserve the pardon, for he was still unrepentant young and passionate graduates to eventually lose their the members had lunch. to run the solar car has a great impact on a team’s despite the court’s clear verdict. He was even claiming at idealism. Sadly, I perceive that young individuals choose Br. Armin closed: “I have never bonded with energy usage: If the car is going too fast, then the first that he will not accept any pardon from President to give up because of facing challenges they were not anyone in the DLSU community as much as I have batteries will end up being drained. On the other Macapagal-Arroyo. But what did he do? Maybe because planning to engage themselves in. Few are willing to endure bonded with these fifteen… Team Sinag will be an hand, if the car is going too slow, then it will end of an absence of dignity and integrity, he went begging and stand up to the bullies in society. Who are they? In important chapter in DLSU’s 100 years.” up with a full battery and can go a lot faster. for freedom in a heart beat. Maybe dying in a dirty prison Filipino culture, most of them are your family members. For the mechanical aspects, Villena suggested seemed like an inappropriate ending for an action star. So why did Julie marry that man? You see, the man is an The 15 the need “to make our own material like what other I am very much ashamed of my fellow Filipinos who Australian citizen but a Filipino by blood. She was pushed “If I have to do it all over again, I would want teams are doing to lessen our expenses.” Added continue to support him. Yes, he was a father, a friend, by her mother to marry that man because of the promise of to have the same team,” uttered Engr. Fernandez. expenses were incurred, furthermore, from minor and a co-worker. But don’t they realize that supporting a better life once they migrate to Down Under. Meanwhile, also during the celebration, Assistant measurement problems that led to some designed this kind of cycle in our society, with the powerful Succumbing to the wishes of her mom and given an easy Project Head Engr. Jack Catalan proudly said that parts no fitting in the car. In terms of design, Sinag ones always getting what they want, is equivalent to a way to escape the hard life, she chose to marry that man even he was honored to be “a member of the greatest was built with safety as a priority, which made the slow but sure democratic suicide? The masses, which if it will feel like being abused every time they’ll make love. team that [De] La Salle could ever have.” “Being car a bit heavier than its opponents comprise most of Erap’s supporters, have to realize that part of the team is the best part,” added Engr. When asked if DLSU is willing to handle the if he can’t stand by his word, what more by his people? All I can say is that the fastest or easiest ways seem Mallari. next solar car project, Dr. Quebengco said: “If *** to be the most appealing choices, but always lead to According to Obiles, during the competition, ever they won’t give the next project to DLSU, Based on a true story: Julie (not her real name) was disastrous consequences. Like a wide and fast rapid the WSC Observer told him that Team Sinag was we’d be glad to guide the next team. All that mat- a typical girl from the province. She was an only child, that leads to a waterfall, you will not know when you’re more relaxed and less likely to have tensions de- ters is that we’re the first to build the solar car in and didn’t have her father around from infancy to young nearing disaster until you hear the crashing waters. spite the problems they encountered. the country.” p a i n t w i t h l i g h t 7 14 November 2007 Tdeath:HE LASALLIAN a new beginning

Life is what you celebrate. ‘‘All of it. Even its end.

JOANNE HARRIS, Chocolat ‘‘ Here is the test to find whether your mission on earth is finished: If you’re alive, it isn’t. ‘‘ Richard Bach ‘‘ and ian meru VIN L AU p hotos A L by

We all die. The goal isn’t to live forever, the goal l ahniuk C huck Pa is to create some- ‘‘ thing that will. ‘‘

u n i v e r s i t y 14 November 2007 9 THE LASALLIAN

DLSU’s ‘banner’ research projects tuition from page 1 John Benedict Cruz thoroughly studied the most By zamanta legados applicable inflation rate to be used. One of the major changes in the students’ t the start of the current school year, University President Br. Armin A. Luistro urged the faculty to pursue more nationally relevant proposal was the usage of the school year (June to research on five priority areas--poverty alleviation, environment and safety, youth-at-risk, globalization, and applied technologies. With May) as the basis for inflation rate, instead of the traditional calendar year (January to December) used this agenda in mind, what are the University’s banner research projects? A by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the Asian Development Bank. The students reasoned Dennis Beng Hui, director of the Industry preventing incompatible use of areas. (i.e. building Last year out that the University incurs expenses during that Academe Linkage Office of the College of a factory beside the marine station), generating alone, “around particular period and not during the calendar year. Engineering (COE), and Dr. Alvin Chua, chair of livelihood, initiating rehabilitation of mangrove 100” research This change also arose from their observation that the Mechanical Engineering Department, listed the areas, and protecting organisms like sea turtles—has projects were most estimates would grow increasingly inaccurate as Solar Car and the Micro-Hydro Project as promising been drawn up. Fishers have been organized into completed. the year progressed. research ventures. cooperative groups, and the community has been But Razon Another basis of the SC’s proposal was the The Solar Car, as publicized, is a test application educated in data collection to implement the e x p r e s s e d revenue structure of the University. Dykimching of renewable energy research. On the other hand, plan. that they are said that only approximately 52 percent of DLSU’s the Micro-Hydro project headed by Godofredo The station has also become a unable to keep expenses are really shouldered by the student’s tuition Salazar, is using turbines to generate electricity in community center for children track of all of fee, with the University generating revenue through remote villages, and so far has been able to provide on some days. Marine Station research conducted other sources such as donations and special funds. power to two Abra communities. A joint project of Director Dr. Wilfredo by faculty members since “So even with this TFI, we could still expect the JICA, DLSU, and DOLE, this research started as a Y. Licuanan arranges an there is no penalty for not university revenues to be the same.” Dykimching said. 1997 thesis, and through regular maintenance and annual summer camp reporting. He said it is their In addition, the SC defended this argument by saying enhancement, is still being developed. with volunteers from the task though to facilitate that historical data has shown that even with the The Chemical Engineering Department, with Center for Social Concern r e s e a r c h presence of major fluctuations in the breakdown of the Tokyo Institute of Technology, is working and Action (COSCA) to p r o g r e s s sources of revenue for the University, the percentage on “environmental protection technologies,” expose children to marine and help coming from tuition fee has remained constant. specifically, “the use of catalysts in the production of life. The lack of Academic out in areas Data from the Student Council Assistance Fund synthesis gas (hydrogen and carbon monoxide) from Service Faculty (ASF) to aid in of difficulty. (SCAF) also showed that the number of students natural gas which primarily contains methane gas.” the supervision and facilitation Beng Hui applying for loans increased this school year. But An ongoing related project is “Ethanol Production of the station’s needs and projects, explained that since the SC can only offer a steady number of loans, from Biomass using Reactive Distillation.” however, prevents the pursuit of these unreported more students were unable to obtain financial help. From the College of Computer Studies (CCS), more programs. projects are most This information was interpreted to mean Lasallian Ethel Ong of the Software Technology Department likely those that are education is increasingly becoming out of reach even reported that important work was being conducted Facilities for Research externally funded to Lasallians. by Rigan Ap-Apid and Onel Bartolomeon “pattern The university houses some of the most high- by either private The SC also used last year’s projection of recognition as applied to facial or image recognition scale research facilities in the country. Beng Hui says institutions, government MSCB as a cushion, since it was noted that inflation and medical diagnosis (such as scoliosis detection, that the University’s ergonomics usability laboratory, offices, or non-government organizations. While projections by the Administration and the FA both ultrasound detection, skin disease detection),” in where a person’s interaction with products can be these need only be reported to URCO, they may differed by an estimated 3 percentage points from the addition to Dr. Raymund Sison’s studies on artificial explored, is the only one of its kind in the country. be automatically directed to the Office of the Vice actual inflation rate. The SC’s estimate of 2.9 percent intelligence for education and software engineering Chemical Engineering Department Chairperson Chancellor for Research (OVCR) or the Office of for the year 2007 was the closest to the actual 2.7 practices in Asia, and Dr. Rachel Roxas’ three-year Dr. Leonila Abella shared that the University, the Chancellor—which are the likely signatories to percent recorded. DOST-funded Hydrid Machine Translation System through its membership in the ASEAN University any memorandum of agreement—to address high Lastly, the students’ proposal also used a for English-Filipino. Network’s SEED-Net, was able to acquire a Trace level concerns. computation for a “TFI Threshold per student,” An extension of DLSU is the Br. Alfred Shields Gas Chromatograph, a Microwave Lab Station, Also, because they are externally funded, there wherein the projected increase in expenses was divided Marine Station located in Lian Batangas, which and a UV/Vis Spectrophotometer, among other is a measure of confidentiality with the research, by the weighted average number of units taken each houses classes and research work conducted by the equipment, which will “further enhance the research since in some cases it is to cater to the needs of an term by each student. This was done by getting a Marine Biology sector of the College of Science capabilities of the department.” office. But for internally funded research, everything breakdown of the student population per year level (COS). With a sea water system which pumps These facilities give greater opportunity for passes from the research centers of each college, for each college, and adjusting it accordingly to get saltwater from the sea, scuba gear, snorkeling devices, collaboration among the University’s colleges, with which monitors the activities for URCO. the weighted average, since the rates per academic boats, and life vests, the facility (open to visitors for industry, as well as with students. Patalinghug and Faculty members have to submit proposals unit vary. a P150 fee) has become an effective contributor Beng Hui emphasized that students are integral to URCO usually via their colleges. URCO would to the surrounding community’s well being. A 10- to the process: A student’s thesis, for example, in turn implement rules and aid in facilitating the Reaction from other sectors year coastal management plan— may originate from a faculty’s ideas, but only be research being done. The OVCR then enhances the Yao happily exclaimed that this MSCB is “one which includes completed with joint efforts from a student research outputs of the University by setting up of the best” she headed in her five years as chair. and faculty member. Besides, “what they possible tie-ups and partnerships. Arcinue said that during the meetings, the (students) need [to learn] are things Ultimately, what is considered “banner research,” Board of Trustees was initially asking for a TFI as beyond the book,” remarked Beng Hui; according to Dr. Patalinghug, may differ between low as zero percent to make DLSU education more otherwise, he said students might as the general public and the scientific community. A accessible and help reach the goal of having more well study by themselves. research project, for instance, may rake in numerous scholars. Nonetheless, Arcinue reasoned: “Even with awards and be deemed outstanding by field experts, that intention, we want to be sensitive to the needs of Monitoring Our Progress but fail to interest a broader audience. And while all the sectors of the community especially the faculty Nonetheless, University Research applied research is more easily recognized, basic and the employees.” Coordination Office (URCO) Director research for deriving new knowledge simply get less “As much as we want it (TFI) to be low, we Dr. Luis Razon reiterates that it is attention because they are published in journals less can’t really risk the professors leaving the University difficult to judge the value of a research visible to students. because the students will be the one having difficulty project because it is undertaken to meet a with that. We don’t also want to sacrifice the quality specific concern. artwork BY airi beltran and samantha ang of education that the students get,” Cruz said. There was a temptation to accept the extremely low increase being proposed by the Administration, the student representatives said, but they realized that there will IN REVIEW be dire implications if the University does not have sufficient funds to operate. “I think the students and their parents will be Kapihan ng Malayang Lasalyano happy with a low tuition fee increase of 3.6 percent,” said Chancellor Dr. Carmelita Quebengco. said that Kamalayan promotes critical thinking aside from placing Kamalayan forum schedules in by Creizelle Francisco Quebengco further explained that the and concern about the country, and endeavors to the Lasallian Planner and giving frequency cards Administration is always trying to keep the delicate Last year, during the height of gradually wipe out the stereotype that Lasallians to participants, CONIC will also be conducting a balance between maintaining competitive faculty are insulated from the realities of the Philippines. Responsible Citizenship Campaign stating January and staff salaries and considering families’ financial the “Hello Garci” controversy, the De La Salle Student Council (SC) President Noey Arcinue, for 2008. The Committee also plans to invite more situations. “We are also very careful not to price Brothers surprised many by publicly asking her part, said that students ought to participate in well-known speakers to attract more attendees. ourselves out of the market, the most immediate President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo “to make Kamalayan, being citizens of this country. effect of which will be on our student selectivity,” Areas for Improvement added Quebengco. the supreme sacrifice.” This prompted the On awareness and attendance The very nature of the activity is rather limiting, On the other hand, the Faculty Association establishment of the DLSU-Committee on Since it is an open forum, Kamalayan sometimes since only a handful of people are able to attend. remained silent on the issue, while The LaSallian National Issues and Concerns (CONIC). The has difficulty attracting many participants. The first Arcinue noted that the University community is was not able to reach the DLSU-EA for comments. committee eventually saw the need for a venue few months of the regular forum were particularly not too keen on holding big gatherings thus, as in challenging for COSCA, since they did not know the case of the Kamalayan, the reach in terms of Future Concerns where university stakeholders can regularly how many would be attending. Arcinue believes participation becomes rather limited. On the part Arcinue said that, in the end, the approved come together and discuss the issues. And so that it is somehow not part of the University’s of the SC, Arcinue said that it is now their thrust proposal was closest to the one the administration Kapihan ng Malayang Lasalyano (Kamalayan) culture to oblige sectors to attend a forum, though to mobilize people on the batch level so that more recommended during the past few years. She also she added that attendance in Kamalayan has been people will be able to know about what is being mentioned that it was critical that the MSCB remain was born. steadily increasing. Even the forum has had its own discussed during Kamalayan. independent from the Board of Trustees and the share of developments, with student organizations Lastly, Arcinue shared that the process of Lasallian Brothers. “We make sure [there is still the] Sharing the Mission of Kamalayan beginning to sponsor these forums to engage topics choosing a topic still causes some problems. Even autonomy [of] MSCB. If the Board of Trustees want Kamalayan, according to Wadel Cabrera of the they think are relevant. (The LaSallian, it may if these are planned ahead of time, breaking news to be vocal about it, [they only have one vote],” she Center for Social Concern Action and secretary be recalled, was the first student organization to often adds pressure on CONIC to react quickly. remarked. The SC, she added, hopes that the MSCB of the CONIC, “should at the very least discuss sponsor a Kamalayan. The discussion, held last July As a consequence, speakers become more difficult will agree on a uniform basis for proposals in the and at most take action on these national issues.” 25, was on “The Social Dimension of Sports.”) to invite. On a positive note though, Arcinue cited coming years. Kamalayan tries to cover as many topics as possible, Arcinue admitted that there is a lack of one instance wherein the speaker was not able to The SC President noted that the Faculty including those that are considered as the “hot awareness when it comes to CONIC projects, attend the engagement but those present continued presented almost exactly the same proposal that they issues” of the day, as well as relevant topics not including Kamalayan, with most of those attending to discuss matters relevant to the topic at hand. had last year. The rationale given for this was that the regularly talked about. belonging to the student sector. “There is still a long way to go,” Cabrera affirmed. FA did not receive the statistics they requested from CONIC Chairperson and former dean of To encourage people to come, she said that government offices in time for the MSCB meetings. the College of Science (COS) Emmanuel Garcia u n i v e r s i t y 10 14 November 2007 THE LASALLIAN COMMENTARY Perennial Student Complaints By Loraine Saguinsin irrelevant to the lesson at hand. In other times, there Punctuality is also expected not only from the is too much emphasis on certain topics, so much so students but more importantly, from professors. A tudents have an endless list of feedback about their professors, but ironically, most just that other areas of discussion are no longer explored professor’s absence in class is greatly felt compared to keep quiet about it. So during the end of every term, it is not surprising to hear of students or explained. In extreme cases, some professors even the absence of one student, because the former is the impart inaccurate and misleading information. one who transmits knowledge and facilitates learning. depressed with their grades, frustrated with their learning experience, and even discouraged Other students also tend to question if professors Without their presence, there will be no catalyst to lead from attending the University. are knowledgeable about the lessons they are discussing. students to the path of knowledge and discovery. S Students can sense if what professors are teaching is Crystal clear give feedback only after the midterms in the form related to topic at hand, and how well can they deliver “Environmentally friendly” Logically, it is usually during course card distribution of survey questionnaires conducted randomly by the it to the students. Students often start questioning The world’s renewed attention on environmental day that most students file formal grievances cases Institutional Testing and Evaluation Office (ITEO). their teacher’s qualification to handle a certain topic issues has led to a surge in recycling, and it seems some against professors, as some are left in disbelief to Problem is, by the time the feedback gathered from if they cannot effectively deliver the lessons to be professors have taken this to heart by reusing quizzes receive grades far below what they had expected. This the survey reaches professors, the class is almost learned. This phenomenon is most commonly observed and examinations from previous terms. usually happens due to two main reasons. The first is finished and there is little, if no time to adjust. In effect, among fresh graduates, who lack the experience to Though many students gladly participate in because of unclear expectations inside the classroom. professors will just have to apply the improvements teach, and among long-time professors who seem to this exercise, there are some who complain against If students and professors have different notions on they need for their classes in the following term. The be too self-absorbed in the manner and content that professors who reuse their test papers beyond a term. what qualifies a student to get high grades, each goes current class then is the one that ends at odds with the they discuss. Oftentimes, fresh graduates who become There are those who realize that they will be the ones their own way throughout the fourteen weeks without situation. Aside from professors giving feedback to professors have to review the course material again most affected by this arrangement, because this setting clarifying this matter. So at the end of the term, students students, it is very important on the part of the students before being able to teach, which is in stark contrast does not motivate students who want to pass their end up complaining how their grades were computed. to provide constant feedback to professors on how to the level of mastery that seasoned professors have. exams through their own merit and effort as they see It is important, therefore, for both parties to be clear well they are teaching in class for them to be able to Under this argument, teaching methodology is also most of the class hardly exerting any effort to learn about their expectations from the beginning of the term adjust accordingly. When this two-way communication put into question. Some professors are all too happy at all. to avoid misconceptions. occurs, both parties feel greater satisfaction, and work merely talking to the blackboard or reading through the Ideally, this problem should not even at all exist performance is much improved. contents of the book or presentation without giving Reality sets in with the presence of a well-defined syllabus. A typical any additional input or explanation for concepts that According to Student Council Vice President for course would normally have a clear-cut breakdown Teaching effectiveness are difficult to understand. Academics Nicole Villarojo, majority of the formal of how the grade will be computed. Unfortunately, Students also have also their own views about complaints that they receive from students are about this setup is all too often altered or ignored either at their professors’ role inside the classroom. First and Disappearing act the non-transparency of professors in the grading the beginning of the term, or even on course card foremost, they perceive their professors, as experts Students have many complaints about some of their system. The very few behavioral cases which usually distribution day itself. in their own fields of study. It is because professors professors and among them are about the attendance come from new professors in the campus are often The other reason why students have complaints serve as a primary source of knowledge in the class. in class. dealt with informally. against their professors at the end of the term is because Therefore, it is naturally assumed that they should Although it is acceptable for students to have Applied in an educational context, it is very of lack of feedback exchange between the two. Students be equipped with sufficient information to impart to their professors miss classes provided that they have important that students and professors make clear need feedback about their performance because it helps students. valid reasons, this treatment does not extend to those to each other the nature of their perceptions and them know what to do and how well they are meeting But sometimes, students feel that their professors who absent themselves without any explanation at all. expectations in the class to minimize role ambiguity. A their goals. These normally take the form of test results are not teaching what they are supposed to learn. One Based on experiences from these types of professors, better understanding of roles helps people know what and verbal comments. of the reasons is that even if some professors are the students are the ones who struggle in assignments others expect of them and how they should act. So if On the other hand, professors also need feedback present, their absence in class would be hardly missed and examinations, particularly in questions beyond the professors and students have role misunderstanding from the students to see their effectiveness in delivering because of their unusual teaching styles. There are times grasp of mere self-study and need detailed explanation when they interact, then problems are likely to occur lessons and facilitating the class. But students usually when professors lecture on subject matter that is totally from the professor to be understood. in the classroom setting.

Did you know... brain filler During an hour’s swimming “Imagination was given to man to com- at a municipal pool you will pensate him for what he is not; a sense of ingest 1/12 liter of urine. humor to chonsole him for what he is. ” -Francis Bacon

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SCHOOL LIFE BRIAN CHRISTIAN UY

BASED ON A TUE STORY AlLEN SILVA

TIMEOUT DEAD END JUN RENTON FRANCIS BORROMEO

MIDTERMS JOHNA BAYLON

zOMBIES MONIKA ORTEGA

Beyond the DEAD-line AIRI BELTRAN

s p o r t s 14 November 2007 13 THE LASALLIAN

IN THIS Athletes’ usual hangouts Athlete revisited by Dean Sedrick Carlos, Francine Richelle Ong, Jefferson Quincy Reyes, and Christine Mariel Suntay R.J. CORNER As you walk along the University, it may seem that there are some places which always seem Manzano “How do occupied, or in a way, marked as a sort By Katherine Anne Tingzon of territory by the same people you see the last time you passed by. Chances are, ith talent and heart, R.J. you treat the you may have attempted to sit on one of Manzano played and excelled for rules?” the tambayans of the varsity teams. Wthe De La Salle Baseball and Softball Teammates in varsity teams—like team from 1993 to 1998. compiled By The Lasallian freshmen in their first terms in the Sports Staff University—are almost always found R.J., who has been playing baseball and soft- together. It is due to this fact that there ball for 24 years, was raised in a family that had are certain places in the university that a history of engaging in both sports. This third “May code of conduct po kami are marked as tambayans or unofficial baser and catcher was instrumental in DLSU’s na sinusunod. Tapos general siguro hang-outs of varsity teams outside their 1995 baseball and softball championship in the yung about academics that we have normal training areas. UAAP. Eight years later, he was assistant coach to follow. Mabait kami, Like yung “Tambayan.” The benches near the SPS are the Green Tankers’ PHOTO BY IAN MERU Currently the tables in the Central usual hangout place. to a champion De La Salle baseball and softball hindi magmura, iwasan mag-absent, Plaza near the photocopy machine are squad. yung respect sa lahat. And as much a popular gathering place for the lawn as possible, ayaw ko bumagsak (We tennis, table tennis, taekwondo, softball, a lawn tennis varsity member, fondly time with veterans. These places also Manzano graduated with a Development follow a code of conduct. General and football varsity teams. The covered recalls how, during her freshman year, become avenues for current team Studies degree, and now plays for the Titans rules that we follow include academic tables near the SPS Building (Br. Gabriel all of them had their bags taken by a members to update each other on their Baseball League. He also coaches the Cebu policies. We’re good people. We Connon Hall) and the Amphitheater, discipline officer when they forgot to activities, and encourage people to Dolphins which play in the Baseball Philippines don’t cuss, avoid absences, and give on the other hand, are home to the have someone stay and watch their join the varsities. “It (tambayan) made league, while working for the Bureau of Immigra- respect to everyone. And as much DLSU track and field and swimming things. me love the sport more,” exclaimed tions. (Some of the Dolphins are as possible, I don’t want to fail a teams; soccer team members are usually Tambayans are important for varsity former DLSU Track athlete Toni former and present De La Salle subject).” seen at the tables at SJ Walk near Z2. team members for a variety of reasons. Ocampo. Most importantly, these places players.) - Karina Bacsain DLSU In these places, student-athletes get to First, they serve as an extension of provide student-athletes a sense of Trackster meet and spend time together. Sherry training hours, as rookies pick up belongingness, identity, and a niche in With the Uni- Rose Ong, now on her fifth year as valuable tips and advice from spending the Lasallian community. versity back in the UAAP, “We take [rules] seriously, Manzano advises the especially our team’s regulations. present Baseball Like what our coaches advise us, we and Softball have to be serious and disciplined team to stay when it comes to following the rules. On the Rise: The DLSU Capoeira Club proud, study With that we learn a lot.” By Jefferson Quincy Reyes and members of the DLSU Capoeira Club Orange, Yellow-Green, Orange-Green, hard, and - Alliv Samson,DLSU Lady Christine Mariel Suntay for their enthusiasm and interest in the Green (Graduado), Green-Blue, Blue be the Fencer sport,” he said. “When we just started (Formado), Purple (Instrutor), Brown best they Since being officially out, sometimes, sadly, the class would (Professor) and Red (Mestre). Once a “Personally, I observe rules. I can be. recognized by the Office of Sports only consist of three students and even student receives the title of Formado, have my own rules for myself. Being Development (OSD) during the second when we had over 15 students, they he is considered ready to teach. an athlete, it is important to follow term of last school year, the DLSU were mostly inconsistent in attendance. Dacalos further takes pride in the [rules] so that you will be able to Capoeira Club—the first capoeira Now, we have a consistent number of significant improvement in consistency develop discipline which is the most club in the collegiate level—has been students who are very enthusiastic about of attendance from students which is important thing to learn to become growing and improving. learning,” Dacalos added. one of the main factors to evaluate the successful. I also follow the rules 12th unigames... from page 15 As part of its larger mother Individual members of the DLSU club’s performance. “I remember when of the school since I’m an athlete school, Escola Brasileira de Capoeira Capoeira Club have also accomplished we just started out, sometimes, sadly, and there are people who look up event. LC Langit led the way for DLSU, as she Philippines (EBCP), the Green much, as evidenced by the number of the class would only consist of three to me so I have to be a good role bagged gold medals on 200 m backstroke, 200 m and White capoeira members busy students who have received their first students and even when we had over 15 model.” freestyle, and 400 m freestyle. Other gold medalists themselves participating in various belts in the recently concluded 5th students, they were mostly inconsistent for De La Salle were Tessa Alcantara in the 100-meter - Joy Lanting, DLSU softball demonstrations for organizations Batizado, and by senior members who in attendance. Now, we have a consistent breaststroke and Janina Sedilla in 200-meter individual player inside and outside campus. Regular changed cords in the Troca de Corda. number of students who are very medley. The Lady Tankers also took home the 4x100 “The body is a tool that needs trainings are also being conducted Dacalos shared that club president enthusiastic about learning.” With this, meter freestyle relay gold medal. The next day, the Lady to be taken care of. I eat right, every Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Jaime Benedicto skipped cords for the Dacalos is optimistic that this trend will Tankers again won gold—this time in the 4x50 medley sleep right, and exercise a lot for 10th floor of the Sports Complex. second time and is now a belt away continue in the years to come. with Francesca de Guzman, Janina Sedilla, Alexie maximum performance.” According to club adviser Richard from becoming a graduado (graduate). In “We plan mainly to continue Laconico, and Kimberly Cornelio. Sedilla was in first Weinbrenner Dacalos, several members the words of Dacalos, “As individuals facilitating training at DLSU. Keeping place in the 200 m breaststroke; Langit topped the 100 - Carl Mamawal, DLSU and officers participated in the EBCP’s I’d have to say that each student is the same light, fun and supportive m backstroke; and Tessa Alcantara garnered another gold football player Brasilipinas 2007, a series of events constantly growing. Recently, several atmosphere. We hope to have more medal by winning the 100 m freestyle event. “I observe and follow rules. It’s from Sept. 9 to 23 in cooperation with of the more consistent students of the demonstrations within the DLSU Green Tanker Enchong Dee prevented San Beda an innate action to be sensitive to the Brazilian Embassy, Havaianas, and DLSU Capoeira Club were rewarded community, so that more can appreciate from ruling the first day of men’s competition by my surroundings. And it just shows Motorola which featured capoeira for their dedication by receiving their the art we practice. Several organizations winning two gold medals in the 100 m butterfly and my attitude inside the field and how workshops, film showings, and music first cord (belt) at EBC’s 5th Batizado. have asked us to help them sponsor a 400 m freestyle events. The following day, the Green I apply to certain rules of the game. festivals. Brasilipinas also witnessed The baptism is an important event in Capoeira class for LEAP in February,” Tankers finished second and third on the 4x100 medley Furthermore as an athlete, I believe the 5th Batizado (Baptism), Troca de a capoeirista’s life. It is when she is revealed Dacalos. Preparations are and 4x100 freestyle, respectively. Ixxi Quilala took the that it is also my responsibility to be Corda (Change of Cord), and EBCP welcomed into the Capoeira world by, as already ongoing for more events here silver medal in 100 m and 200 m backstroke, while his a good role model.” graduation ceremonies at Fr. Rafael mentioned earlier, receiving her first belt and abroad in particular next year’s brother and team captain Mikki Quilala finished third in Cortina S.J. Sports Center, Xavier (yellow in our school), and in our school, Batizado and Troca de Corda. the 200 m breaststroke and butterfly events. – Mafe Trinidad, DLSU School on Sept. 22. receiving their Capoeira name.” As for the faces to look out for “Okay naman ang performance ng team, sa women’s softball player Dacalos emphasized that there have The belt system of Capoeira varies in the capoeira scene, Dacalos names nakuha na nila yun expectation nila na magchampion. been no local capoeira competitions from school to school and is somewhat the new batch of promising yellow Maganda ang mga pinakita na time ng mga swimmers. because the sport has been around similar to the Taekwondo system. cords from the DLSU Capoeira Club: Ito na lang last event of the season kaya medyo relax only four years in the Philippines since Corresponding colors for one’s rank Gaille Reyes, Nikko Espenilla, Archie na ang team (The team’s performance was okay. The the formal establishment of EBCP as also depend on the school. It has been Leonar, Jowell Mariano, Allan Tamayo, women’s team met their expectation to be champion. errata the first Capoeira school in the country known that some schools do not have Abigail Asence, Karmine Duque, The swimmers displayed excellent swim times. This is in 2003. EBCP’s chief instructor a belt system. For EBC, according TJ Valderrama, Therese Seares, Jed the last event of the season, so we’re a bit relaxed now),” The article entitled “Physical Facilities Professor Fantasma, however, has to Dacalos, the adult belt system is Cenoura, Daniel Lynch, Justin Ylaya, said team captain Mikki Quilala. and Facilities Checks” was written by opened himself to the possibility of as follows: Yellow, Yellow-Orange, and Luis Hernandez. Zamanta Legados and Hazel Dy. competitive capoeira “so that In the article, “A College of Excellence,” we can experience another side the Chemistry Department does not have of Capoeira that we are not yet netters 2-1... from page 15 its own Nuclear Magnetic Resonance familiar with.” Spectrometer. Nevertheless, Dacalos Salle in a hard fought battle: They lost 18-21 to UST’s In the article “Student Leader Assess shared that some DLSU Wilfredo Amoroso and Kevin Alfred Dalisay in the SC,” Rexmond Fang clarified his statements students and alumni recently first set, but then grinded it out for an 21-18 win in by saying that it was not the Student Council’s traveled to Singapore to the second before securing a 21-15 victory in the third fault that they were not able to participate in represent Philippine capoeira and deciding set. the planning stage of the project. He added last Sept. 10-15 for an event The Lady Netters found it difficult to adjust against further that the CSO should have involved organized by prominent UST squad for this round. Tigers Rose Ann dela Cruz the SC more and that Jecah Ginete has capoeira master Mestre Ousado and Jemellee Vicencio threw in aggressive smashes that personally been extremely cooperative with and his school Argola de Ouro helped them win over DLSU’s Rachelle Guerrero and them during the tie-ups. Capoeira. “I’m proud to say Michelle Santiago, 14 – 21 and 11 – 21. The names of the following people many of those who consistently Again, DLSU’s fate rested on the outcome of were misspelled: Mikhael Han and not train with us not only focus on mixed doubles. In a closely-fought match (scores in the Michael; Jecah Ginete and not Jevah; Katrina sequences learned in class but first two sets were 20-22 and 22-20), UST’s Emmanuel Roseos and not Katiran. go further by searching for Garcia and Chona Medina got the win though, thanks Part of the photo caption for the article songs and history related to our to errors committed by Green Netters Rhaul Angeles on the Green Judokas should have read art, Capoeira. They also actively and Caitlin Chan in the final set. “gold medal” rather than “silver medal.” participated in the events Despite the loss to UST, the Green and Lady of Brasilipinas… Professor photo BY Alvin Lau Netters’ Coach Owen Lopez said he was satisfied with Fantasma often commends the the teams’ performance. s p o r t s photo by alvin lau 14 14 November 2007 THE LASALLIAN

Green Journals: A Letter to Jose Francisco Unson III the Editor he first time I ever held a sword, I was do for my team. Sometime during my second year, still a grade school student. I had terrible I became the team captain. We started with only Tform and little endurance that my coach about 15 fencers for both the men’s and women’s Obiter struggled to turn me into something workable. divisions, and had only one coach. Every other I was not much of a fencer at 11 years old, but I school in the UAAP had three coaches and plenty dictum enjoyed the sport. It was not something I could of fencers. The team suffered from little financial continue for many years though, and it was not support, and never really had a steady manager. until I was a DLSU freshman that I was able to None of the fencers received scholarships. And Camille Bianca Pinto come back to fencing. This time during the suspension of De I was not just playing for myself, La Salle, the fencing team ometime last month, I was surprised to see a letter when I opened my drawer but for my alma mater. With “I miss what it means lost its varsity status and this in mind, I pushed myself to received no funding at all that Sin our publication’s office. The letter, excel and be at my very best. to be a fencer... I would entire year, which threatened dated Sept. 25 and written by an anonymous For the years that I was to mean an entire year of alumnus (only the ID number was indicated), want nothing more than it was a comment on the “In this Corner” in DLSU, the Fencing Team stagnation. In not so many section of the September issue on some of defined me: I scheduled my to be the captain of my words, the situation was dire, the freshmen’s opinions that held that the classes to accommodate my team once more and lead and it was difficult to know Green Archers seemed to have lost their training; I skipped meetings with where to start. determination to win. (To those who do not friends because I had training. I them one last time to the Nonetheless, if greatness remember, we posed the question of whether came home late every evening were ever means for the the Green Archers would be able to make it to for months because I had to prospect of victory.” Fencing team, it would have the men’s basketball finals.) be at ULTRA. I would spend to start from little steps, and Whoever you are, let me address the points my own money on equipment I did my best to take steps in you raised. “In this Corner” is an opinion-based that I would need because of a the right direction. I started portion of the Sports Section aimed at learning PHOTO BY WILLIAM CRUZ limited team budget. recruiting students who were interested to join Lasallians’ perspectives on some sports issues. I would train alone and find ways to push the team, and while some would stay and some ready to defend De La Salle from all comers. I know As far as I know, everyone is entitled to his myself, seeing to it that not a day was wasted. I would go, today there are over 40 active fencers. I can amend for my past shortcoming and pull out or her opinion. I know that you respect the dedicated myself to the team and to the sport that I It took a great deal of sacrifice, letters of request, the win, and this knowledge only adds fuel to the comments that were raised and were only today have a very deep appreciation and love for. and fundraising in order to arrive at the three- fire in me longing to compete. disturbed by what were said, but this does not Now, I’m a graduate, and no longer officially member coaching staff that now handles DLSU But more than another chance to redeem mean that the people who did not see the team making the finals at the time do not support part of the team. No more pressure to lose weight Fencing. Today, there is a coach for each weapon, myself, I miss what it meant to be a fencer: the and train every night. No more pressure to fix and fencers receive the best training ever I would the Green Archers. What they just said, after evening trainings in ULTRA, struggling to be a all, were what they saw was the team’s chances schedules to accommodate trainings. No more say in the history of the sport in De La Salle. The student first and stay awake during class. Most of of getting to the championship round just after punishment for being late. The end of what had Office of Sports Development now has returned all though, I would want nothing more than to be losing two straight games. defined me for four years is something I look the team’s varsity status, given funding for coaches, the captain of my team once more and lead them And look at what the Green Archers have upon with mixed emotions. My pride is mixed equipment, and even scholarships. The return of one last time to the prospect of victory. achieved: they won the championship. Either with regret, happiness with sadness, and joy with DLSU to the UAAP makes the pot even sweeter Unfortunately, these wishes will remain only they disregarded the “negative” statements sorrow. It is a very complex feeling for a number to every Lasallian student-athlete. wishes, for as melodramatic as it might sound, a made, or (more likely) they used these to of reasons. With all these positive signs, I am excited new part of my life is about to begin. Nonetheless, further motivate them to win. As a writer, I Regretfully, in my four years, I wasn’t able to for my team because they are in excellent form I find myself drawn to my love for my team, my am also exposed to these kinds of criticisms bring home a medal for my alma mater, and that and are complete. For the first time ever, DLSU from former editors and fellow writers, but this alma mater, and for fencing. I continue to go to does not stop me from working to improve on is something I will always regret. I had my chances will have a Women’s Saber Team competing. training and contribute as much as I can to the my craft. The Green Archers too are subject to accomplish this goal, but they‘ll always be only With the experience of senior fencers and great young fencers in the hopes that what little I give to criticisms, not just by sports analysts, but chances. If the goal of a fencer is to bring home coaches available to guide the team, success is not might make a difference in the games to come. also their supporters, and those criticisms, as a win and a medal, then there is no doubt that I impossible. It is this promise and potential that In February, I know I’ll be at my team’s corner far as I know, only ignite their competitive fire. failed at this. It sucks mightily. leaves a pang of longing to pick up my sword and cheering them on, because while I may no longer So, when the Green Archers entered the finals, Fortunately, I put my four years in another be a student again. I imagine myself suited up and be a student, I remain a Lasallian and a part of I’m sure the comments made were simply set perspective, and take solace in what I was able to stepping onto the metal piste, sword in hand and my team. aside and taken note of; I’m confident the same people who made those testimonies were with me in cheering the team on. The LaSallian sees itself as a bastion of issue-oriented critical thinking, and it is in line with this critical thrust that we give space to By Ma. Linda Provido, negative viewpoints. And we are very careful Francine Richelle Ong, about everything we publish, which is why Jefferson Quincy Reyes we section editors always have the Top Three editors of this publication go through all articles we’ve already edited. lady softbelle green tennister green spiker I am thankful for the alumnus taking the Muńoz Baldonado time to read the Sports Section and making his Boquiren or her concerns known. This has reminded me Regina Isabel John Will Emmanuel that criticisms will always be there, and, as in the Green Archers’ experience, can be made Known for her stealing and fielding expertise, Multi-awarded tennis player John Will Baldonado will Now on his fifth year in college and fourth non- to inspire improvement. This has motivated fourth year BS Psychology Softbelle Regina have more medals to collect when the second semester consecutive playing year, Green Spiker Emmanuel Boquiren me to look for ways to improve the Sports “Reg” Isabel Muňoz had stepped on both foreign events in the UAAP unfolds. The 18-year old Marketing is back this UAAP season as the team’s expert setter, spiker, Section in terms of how articles are written and local diamonds during her stay at Merriam Management major was introduced to the sport when he and leader. and what articles are published. On the other Montessori Foundation where she, together was enrolled by his parents to take lessons in Colegio Hailing from De La Salle Zobel, hand, I would like to apologize for the delay in with her teammates, left a mark of the winning San Agustin. From then on, he has had a Boquiren has been playing my response to the letter; this is because I was Filipino pride. Reg, with teammates from schools spectacular record—bagging awards volleyball since grade able to read the letter only after the October such as Poveda College, Woodrose Academy, in SEMG Tournaments and the school, although with issue was released. Assumption College, and De La Salle Zobel, PCA Open, as well as being named occasional breaks. I also received comments about my finished sixth in the 2004 World Series held in MVP year’s ISTA. Baldonado has Volleyball, he shares, is October column, which pertained to the Michigan. Moreover, their team also won two also participated in the Palarong his passion, and that the coach who I wrote had a bias in running his international competitions in the years 2003 Pambansa and numerous other challenging nature of volleyball or her team. I was asked which coach I was and 2004. (One held in Australia, and the international tournaments. is what keeps him playing. referring to, and eventually learned that other, in Manila.) This Athlete of the Year E m m a n , m o s t the coach I had in mind had the qualities As a DLSU Softbelle since 2005, Reg, awardee from Colegio importantly, knows his I said were essential to good coaching. with seven years of Softball defensive San Agustin looks up priorities as an Electronics Nonetheless, I was disappointed that play experience under her belt, wants to to men’s tennis world and Communications there are coaches, inside or outside develop her offensive hitting. More number one Roger Engineering (ECE): the University, that really have a than skills improvement, Reg Federer for his good “Mahirap talaga but once bias against some players. expects more harmonious play strokes and 12 grand slam ma-set mo yung priorities I was more disappointed when among her fellow Softbelles titles. Nonetheless, John and goals mo, gagaan the players of the team had the which will hopefully lead to Will’s style of play could be kahit papaano.” (It is determination to win, but not the a championship in this UAAP compared to current world really tough but once coach. I will not say more to protect season. no. 2 Rafael Nadal, who is a you set your priorities the identity of the team, but as I Love for one’s sport, baseliner with great stamina. and goals, everything pointed out last issue, the practices, according to Reg, is what With his diligence in will be manageable.) determination, and skills of the players makes one continue to training, tennis talent, and As for the team’s ultimately will not matter without a excel: “Hit like nobody’s mental fortitude, Baldonado chances this season, believing coach. A coach should unite his business. Hit like there’s no will be one of the frontrunners Boquiren is setting his or her players and be a model to the team; tomorrow. Steal with your for the Rookie of the Year sights on a final four otherwise, he or she does not deserve to last breath.” award. appearance for the Green be a coach. Spikers. photos by francis garRucho photo by alvin lau s p o r t s 14 November 2007 15 THE LASALLIAN Tracksters 12th UNIGAMES round-up draw close to by Philip Andrew Ang, Francine Richelle Ong, and Katherine Anne Tingzon PATAFA finals by Katherine Anne Tingzon Tracksters players—including Jose—were injured in the run-up captain Issa Camara. “As a team we still need to work The University National Games (UNIGAMES) to the UNIGAMES. The team captain had a severe harder and really put more effort and time into training. from Oct. 22 to 26 in Bacolod City made a huge ankle injury and required surgery after figuring in a We still have a few games before the UAAP and I believe difference to the De La Salle Green and Lady Tracksters, car accident. these will help us a lot to further improve… On [the] who placed fifth overall in the tournament. But even if the Green Booters did not do as well as UNIGAMES, we learned our lesson the hard way and The team’s best individual performance came from expected, Jose said that the tournament “was a challenge now we must commit ourselves into achieving one Jingle Hualde, who won the gold medal in the pole and good experience” for himself and for the team, and goal and one goal only and that is to win the UAAP vault event, courtesy of clearing 2.70 meters—which, was also an opportunity to spend time together. “After no matter what,” Pheasant closed. surprisingly, was not hurdled by the Far Eastern the UNIGAMES, the team has definitely grown more University (FEU) pole vaulter. Another achiever was mature and bonded, which can only help us prepare JINS Raul Santos, who received the bronze medal for the long for this year’s UAAP and perform better in the current Despite fielding only five players in the recently jump event. His last attempt would have tied him with tournament: the Razon Cup,” he commented. concluded 12th UNIGAMES at Bacolod, the Green the second placer, but then he arrived with a foul. The Lady Booters, on the other hand, finished Jins managed to finish fourth—three places The team took part in the 4x100m, 4x200m, and second place, next to the University of Santo Tomas behind defending UAAP champion Far Eastern classical relays, as well as in long jump, pole vault, 400m (UST). University (FEU). Rizal Technological University hurdles, discus throw, javelin throw, shot put, 800m run, The championship game against UST was not placed second, followed by College of St. women’s triple jump and high jump, and the men’s 100m the best of games for DLSU, since the team lost in a Benilde. dash, 200m dash, and 400m run. penalty shootout. “[We] had very good chances, but as FEU, with four golds and a bronze medal, “We learned a lot from this. After the games, we luck would have it they were not converted into goals,” topped the event. The Taft-based squad, on the other talked about what strategy should have been done and said team captain Stef Pheasant. The Lady Booters hand, ended with one gold and two bronze medals. what to do in certain situations. We can apply what missed two attempts, while UST did not make only The Green Jins quintet is composed of Vladimir we learned in the upcoming tournaments,” said team one—ending the game at 3-4. Baniquid for the heavyweight division, Jemo Gonzales captain Edmar Dionson. The team, he said, is still The Lady Booters faced Ateneo in the semifinals as for welterweight, Vincent Sambo for featherweight, in a conditioning stage, and is yet to peak for UAAP scheduled in spite of terrible playing field conditions. Ralph Laforteza for bantamweight and David Rivera competition in February 2008. The team has also been The teams were tied by the end of the first half, but for lightweight. Sambo earned the DLSU team’s lone regularly competing in the PATAFA weekly relays. Jessica Ryon’s hat trick and a goal by Fiona Mckenzie led gold medal. Fellow Green Jins Ralph Laforteza and “The veterans have gained more experience and to an impressive 4-0 victory. The team also played and Jemo Gonzales, meanwhile, finished third in their have showed how [that] they can be a threat to the won against Foundation University (5-0), West Negros respective divisions. other players from other schools. The rookies are not College (21-0), and University of the Philippines (UP), “Okay naman yun performance ng team; lima to be discounted as they also are a force to be reckoned 6-0, in the elimination round. lang ang pinadala na player kaya kulang talaga yun. with,” he concluded. Jessica Ryon, Haya Ibarra, and Martie Plaza played Mahirap talaga maka gold dito dahil halos mga exceptionally well, according to Pheasant. “These girls rookie ang pinadala, ‘dyan pa ang FEU na UAAP Booters had a lot to give in this tournament and they showed gold medalist. Exposure lang ang habol namin DLSU’s Green and Lady Booters finished fifth and great improvement, especially Jessica and Martie. As for for this event (The team’s performance was okay. second, respectively, in the Bacolod UNIGAMES. Haya, [despite] being the only keeper and being a rookie, We only sent five players and that’s really not enough. photo BY Alvin Lau The men’s team had four games in the qualifying [she] performed well. Everyone else actually gave a lot Besides, it’s really difficult to win a gold medal here, with Victory. Lawrence Macalinao (above) and Raul round. The first game was against favorites West Negros [of effort] and contributed hard work.” nearly everyone playing as rookies and the presence of Santos finished first at 45.2 seconds. College, and ended in a 1-1 draw. Afterwards, the team “There will always be a strong team that we will be UAAP champions FEU. We just wanted exposure),” won convincingly against John Lacson University, playing against but it should not make us believe we explained assistant coach Kitoy Cruz as regards the Nov. 3 was the last day of competition 11-0. The next game, however, saw the Booters lose are any less good. I believe we lost the tournament not team’s performance. before the finals the following week for disappointingly to Silliman University, 4-2. (The team because we were the weaker team, but because we let the Philippine Amateur Track and Field “underperformed” in that game, said captain Diego ourselves lose. We simply did not take the chances and Tankers Association relays (PATAFA) in the Rizal Jose.) And with the team needing a win against Ateneo we made our own mistakes which led to this outcome. The Lady Tankers continued their mastery over Memorial Track Oval Stadium. While some de Manila University (AdMU)/Xavier, the DLSU Everyone should have stepped up in that game,” she their rivals, retaining their women’s division title; teams took a break from this day, the De La Green Booters, despite leading most of the way, had explained as regards the Lady Booters’ finish. the Green Tankers finished as runner-ups in men’s Salle Green and Lady Tracksters still competed, to settle for a draw after a very unlucky goal at the end “I believe the experience was really good for the division. and ended the day with strong finishes. of the game. team. We were able to bond, both on and off the field. Impressively, the Lady Tankers took home seven of It was a first place finish yet again for “Our defender Carl Mamawal and Wendell Tee And we discovered our strengths and weaknesses as a the eight possible gold medals on day one of the Green Tracksters Lawrence Macalinao and played well despited having the injuries of a sprained team. This was a good opportunity for the team to Raul Santos in the 4x100m dash, with a time of ankle and dislocated shoulder,” Jose noted. Other prepare for the upcoming UAAP,” said assistant team see 12th unigames, page 13 45.2 seconds. In the 4x400m relay, Macalinao, Santos, together with teammate Rian Seranilla, finished in the top two. Lady Trackster Jingle Hualde likewise did not disappoint, grabbing second place in the 150m dash. Teammate Green Trackster Netters 2-1 in Youth Martin Cruda’s performance improved, as he bested his old score and reached 10.31m in the shotput event. The DLSU Tracksters compete regularly Badminton Championships in the PATAFA tilt as part of their preparation for the UAAP season, which for them will by Dean Sedrick Carlos and Bryan Chan edged Stephen Pia and out to Jovalun Cabanero in two straight begin in February 2008. Christine Mariel Suntay Viejay Nazareno of Trinity in Men’s sets—4-21 and 7-21. Doubles. The duo took the first set with Following the loss, De La Salle got Despite falling to the University a convincing 21-7 mark, then used a late back on track as the electrifying tandem of Sto. Tomas (UST), De La Salle’s surge to come back and win the second of Michael Paclibar and Bryan Chua LADY Spikers... from page 16 badminton varsity handed losses to set, 23-21, after being down by as much proved to be too much for FEU’s Jimson Trinity and Far Eastern University (FEU) as 6, 18-12. Dionisio and Reczon Salvaleon, lighting Stephanie Mercado stepping up in their in the Youth Badminton Championships “Yung game before mag-start hindi them up in two straight sets 21-15, 21-18 encounter with the Stags. Datuin and Mercado 2007 held during the previous week at the kami kabado, hindi din naman relaxed. Yung in men’s doubles. delivered 6 attack points each. West Drive Badminton Center. plano was to win the game, stay focused, But the Morayta-based squad simply The first two sets were close, with the Lady and iwas sa errors. Hirap kasi i-control nung would not give up, bouncing back to Spikers nearly clinching the second set and just Netters overpower Trinity bola and iba kasi paglumilipat na ng court defeat the Green and White in women’s falling short in its latter stages. The Green and Lady Netters (We weren’t nervous nor relaxed before doubles. FEU’s Rachelle Ann Reyes and DLSU was more solid in terms of defense dominated their match-ups with their the game started. The plan was to win Diosan Abangan overwhelmed Lady in the second set than in the first set, where Trinity counterparts last Nov. 3. the game, stay focused, and avoid errors Netters Rachel Guerrero and Deska they allowed Bualee to convert several attack DLSU started out strong and never because the ball’s hard to control and it’s Calimlim,16-21, 6-21. points to give the Stags a 25-20 lead. looked back, as Kelvin Tim Ang defeated different when you’re switching courts),” Tied at 2-2, it was either win or go The rampage of the Taft-based squad Trinity’s Allan Martin in two straight said Paclibar after the game. “Mabilis home for DLSU and FEU in mixed continued in the third set, as San Sebastian sets--21-8, 21-17--in 30 minutes of play. yung shuttlecock, mahirap kontrolin (The doubles, as Raul Angeles and Caitlyn Chan consistently made errors and bad receptions. Ang said that it was quite an easy match shuttlecock’s fast and hard to control),” went against Jayser Frias and Gerrelyn The Lady Spikers’ defensive strategies worked because Martin was a former teammate added team mate Brian Chan Glico. While De La Salle appeared to as they denied Bualee, Rysabelle Devanadera of his, so he knows his moves more or Lady Netters Deska Calimlim and struggle in the first set and managing to and Pirates’ Team Captain Laurence Ann less. He also mentioned that Trinity as a Caitlyn Chan closed out the day strong score just 14 points. However, with the Latigay several times to let De La Salle take team is currently not performing well in as they manhandled Trinity’s Athea Chan tournament at stake, Angeles and Chan photo By William Cruz a commanding 8-3 lead and force Lyceum to this league. and Mek Caneda. They cruised to victory, stormed back to take the remaining two Going Strong. The Green Netters are at 2-1 call a time-out. De La Salle Lady Netter Rachel 21-5, 21-8, in just 13 minutes of play. nail biters 21-19, 21-17. in the standings. Then again, two straight errors by Mercado Guerrero followed suit, topping Trinity’s Coming off victorious against and Penetrante allowed the Thai import to find Apple Bernadas in 20 minutes, 21-8, DLSU escapes FEU tournament favorites FEU, DLSU UST quickly answered back with a her groove. A costly error by Penetrante gave 21-17. A day after dominating Trinity confidently went to face the UST squad victory of their own in women’s singles. the lead to the surging Stags, 15-16. A block by “I played singles today, usually however, the De La Salle teams just a few hours later. The Espana-based squad’s Rochannie Jacqueline Alarca tied the game at 17-all. doubles ako, so I was trying not to show narrowly defeated FEU, 3-2. UST had a quick start however, with Decatoria trounced Lady Netter Deska Team Captain and setter Reiea Saet the complete line-up. The game was okay The first event was men’s singles, Paol Jay Dawai beating Green Netter Calimlim, 21-13, in the first set before committed an error that gave back the lead except [for the fact that] I had errors,” and once again Kelvin Tim Ang Kelvin Ang in the first set in men’s escaping with a 22-20 victory in the to the Red and Gold squad, which went on to said Guerrero. “Rally point eh, so every emerged triumphant: this time against singles. But Ang would storm back to second. take home the second set, 22-25. San Sebastian point counts.“ FEU’s Wilmer Frias, 21-16 and 21-18. take a slim victory in the 2nd set 23-21, Chan and Paclibar then proceeded to totally dominated the third and final set that DLSU was also strong in team play. Meanwhile, in the lady’s singles match, before blowing the game open in the win the men’s doubles for De La ended at 16-25. De La Salle had more blocks Green Netters Michael Paclibar and Lady Netter Rachelle Tengco bowed final set, 21-8. (7-6), but San Sebastian had more attacks see netters 2-1, page 13 (48-26). green journals round-up coverage Jose Unson III, 14 12th UNIGAMES, 15 Netters 2-1, 15 The former captain of DLSU’s fencing team The Green Jins, Green and Lady Booters, Tracksters, and the Tankers represented The DLSU Netters are getting some much needed exposure from lets us in on his thoughts on leaving the the University in the 12th UNIGAMES at Bacolod from Oct. 21-26. See how they t h e Yo u t h Badminton Championship 2007 sponsored University, the current team’s fared against teams from all over the country. by Toby’s in preparation for their upcoming UAAP chances in the UAAP, and what competitive season. it really means to be a student- athlete. LaSallianThe

vol.vo l. xlxlVIVi i no. no. 4 6 the theS official officia lstudent stpudent publication pub olication r ooFF dede lal ta ssallealle univer suniversitysity november 18 november 14 2007 2006 Lady Spikers surge past Ateneo by Jefferson Quincy Reyes

he DLSU Lady Spikers overcame number two seed Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU) in three straight sets, 25-23, 25-19, 25-20, last Nov. 5 to remain in the hunt for the last semifinals berth of the second Tconference of the Shakey’s V-League at The Arena in San Juan City. Guest player Maureen Penetrante 20-12, during the final set. conference elimination round. The Lady and Jacqueline Alarca poured in 15 Kesinee’s blocks and smart plays, Spikers lost in five (23-25, 21-25, 25-22, points each to defeat the Ateneo nonetheless, gave the La Salle team a 25-20, 11-15) and three sets (20-25, 22- opposition. Ateneo’s Thai import and scare, and brought the Ateneo Lady 25, 16-25), respectively, at The Arena in stalwart Lithawat Kesinee failed to keep Spikers closer, 23-20; Carla Llaguno hit San Juan City. up with the consistently exceptional play the ball down the line to answer back and Lyceum clinched its first win, thanks of De La Salle. give DLSU a four point lead at 24-20. to guest player Estrelita Enriquez, Jane The two teams stayed close to each DLSU is currently tied with the Jarin, and Sherrilyn Carrillo of the other in the first set. Alarca’s soft tip Lyceum of the Philippines University Pirates denied the Taft-based squad its gave DLSU the upper-hand at 23-22, and (LPU) Lady Pirates and Far Eastern second victory in four starts. another point at 24-22, courtesy of a net University (FEU) Lady Tamaraws behind Numerous outside hits and error violation by the opponents. After the number four seeded Adamson miscommunication faults were Ateneo scored a point, a costly error University (ADU) Lady Falcons. committed by both sides, but De La gave De La Salle an easy win at 25-23. Coach Ramil De Jesus admitted Salle failed to capitalize on the Pirates’ Bea Pascual of the Katipunan- that his team really prepared for the service errors. The Intramuros-based based squad gave Ateneo its early 0-2 game, and t mentioned that pride really squad took the first two sets at 23-25 advantage in the second set. Stephanie became a pivotal factor in winning their and 21-25 respectively. Mercado, however, tied the game at 2-2 exciting match. The Lady Spikers’ resilience, and Michelle Datuin’s tip gave DLSU “Well maganda yung nilaro nila, talagang however, denied the Pirates a three- the lead at 3-2. nag-prepare sila saka kasi yung pride setter win and kept the game close. De The Green and White tossers kasama na rin dun, siyempre Ateneo yun La Salle’s momentum carried over to continued their surge, as Mercado (They played well; they really prepared the fourth set, as they took the fourth delivered the team’s sixth point against and of course pride was a factor, set at 25-20. Alarca’s blocks and quick 2 of Ateneo. But two consecutive errors because the opponent was Ateneo),” he plays limited the Pirates’ offensive and haunted De La Salle, giving Ateneo commented. defensive plays. A commanding 12-6 breakaway opportunities to inch closer. But despite winning, the volleyball advantage was hoisted by the Green and An off-the-block shot by the Blue and mentor said that he is hoping that the White squad, and the Pirates committed White squad tied the game at 7-7. girls will not forget that they still have more errors. Stepahnie Mercado’s hit Then again, Penetrante’s down the two important games to win to contend gave DLSU an 18-12 advantage. line shot and a solid block catapulted for the semifinals. In the fifth and deciding set, Carillo’s the Taft-based squad to the driver’s seat “Well we still have FEU and off the block shot and her two down the at 15-14. Adamson. Hopefully the momentum will line hits gave Lyceum its first win in the An error committed by the Ateneo stay on our side,” De Jesus remarked V-League’s second conference. gave La Salle a four point cushion at 19- . 15. Alarca’s quick center hit play further Other games Lady Stags too hot to handle increased their lead at 21-15. Team After winning its opening game The Stags’ Thai import Jaroensri Captain Reiea Saet’s drop shot ended against Letran, the DLSU Lady Spikers Bualee—with 20 attack points—delivered the set at 25-19. suffered consecutive setbacks on Oct. the goods for her team, catapulting them DLSU went on to totally dominate 30 and Nov. 2 against cellar-dweller to the top spot and handing the Green photo BY Erika Serrano Under cover. the third set and took home its second Lyceum of the Philippines (LPU) and White squad its second defeat in Chie Saet and another Lady Spiker blocks the ball for the win against Ateneo. win in five starts at 25-20. Alarca and Pirates and NCAA Champions San three outings. Saet’s tandem block gave the Taft-based Sebastian College-Recoletos (SSC- On the bright side for De La Salle, squad its biggest lead of eight points, R) in the Shakey’s V-League second the team saw Michelle Datuin and SEE lady spikers, PAGE 15 Fencers top Novice Open Tennisters by Floren Faye Chua and Jefferson Quincy Reyes compete in

The DLSU Green Fencers posted impressive performances in this PCA Open year’s Novice Open at the Philippine BY camille bianca pinto and floren faye chua Sports Commission (PSC) Fencing Hall in Pasig CIty, with Francis Madrazo and Christopher Ong ending at first and To begin competitive preparations second in the Men’s Epee and Men’s for the second half of the UAAP season, the Sabre divisions last Oct. 27. DLSU Tennisters were back in action during Jason Corpuz, also from the Men’s the kick-off of the Philippine Columbian Sabre division, bagged sixth place Association (PCA) Open at the PCA tennis overall. courts in Quirino Avenue last Nov. 6, 2007. Team Captain Gazel De Guzman Veteran Lady Tennister Shirley Rose Ong said she was satisfied with the suffered a straight sets defeat in the hands of performances of the team. According Touché. A Lady Fencer hits her opponent. photo BY Jennerson Ong Arra Micayabas, 4-7 and 2-6. At the start of the to her, the players showed resilience first set, Ong had the lead, 5-2, but blew it as photo BY FRANCIS GARRUCHO despite lacking enough exposure Micayabas scored four break points to grab the Service. A Lady Tennister aims for the ball. and support. “They have done what UAAP so we are really fielding them bagged a medal, courtesy of a third advantage, 5-6. And with the score tied at 6-6, trail, 4-5, though they were able to tie the set were taught to them and they were in these kinds of events.” De Guzman place finish by Jun Veloira. This season, Micayabas won the first set, 6-7, through a 4-7 at 5-5 and eventually win it through a 7-6 really focused during their bouts,” De n o n e t h e l e s s De Guzman set tie breaker. tiebreaker. On the final and deciding set of the Guzman relayed. admitted that In Season 68, only one fencer e x p e c t s For men’s doubles, the tandem of Green match, Baldonado and Terrecampo did not let The Novice Open, she also they still need bagged a medal, courtesy of a to double Tennister John Baldonado and Ivan Terrecampo Benitez and Gatchalian catch up as they started said, was a good opportunity for to train harder third place finish by Jun Veloira. their medal defeated Jayson Benitez and Gabriel Gatchalian strong, 4-1, and went on to gain their first the rookies to gain experience and and play more This season, De Guzman expects production. in three sets, 3-6, 7-6, and 6-2. After leading by doubles victory as partners at the score of 6-2. improve their skills heading into UAAP so they can to double their medal production. “We have a point in the first set at 2-1, Baldonado and In UAAP Season 68, the Lady Tennisters competition: “Most likely these players i m p r o ve o n been training Terrecampo struggled and lost the set. In the were four-time defending champions and the who participated in the Novice Open their standing. for a long time, I hope we could win second set, again Baldonado and Terrecampo Green Tennisters were champions. will also be our players for this year’s In Season 68, only one fencer more,” she concluded. had the lead, 2-1, but lost their momentum to