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January to March 2012

MARCHing On Celebrating student triumphs

JANUARYJULY - SEPTEMBER - MARCH 2012 2011 2 Contents Contents 33 News 9 XU studes receive BPI-DOST New Appointments and 4 Milestones Science Awards Contents 16 Re-appointments Maria Ressa headlines first NM 12 13 he Board of Trustees of Xavier University in its March meeting has appointed/re-appointed News comm student congress the following people to lead various units in the University starting June 2012. T ‘ Bro Noel B Cantago Ruth S Beltran MD Roel R Ravanera Go forth (until May 2015) (until May 2015) (until May 2013) Vice President for Mission Dean, Jose P Rizal School of Dean, College of Agriculture to4 bring hope OMM conducts art therapy workshop for and Ministry, replacing Fr Medicine XECON calls for giving humanity George S Esguerra SJ who to the world’s XU faculty retired this year despair’ 5 17 a second chance Fulbright roadshow comes to XU

Lourdes G Tolod PhD Virginia C Yacapin PhD Fr Joaquin Jose Ma C Sumpaico SJ In Brief (until May 2013) (until May 2013) (until May 2014) Beyond the concrete jungle, from Dean, School of Education Dean, School of Principal, High School, replacing Business and Management Fr Stephen T Abuan SJ, away on 18 US with love Tertianship in the US XU holds 19th University Service Awards

or the nearly 2,000 graduates, the XU Gym was where it all came down to – the last stop in their journey through college. It wasn’t so long ago when these students entered the university Chem faculty member becomes as freshmen from all walks of life, all sorts of faith, all parts of Mindanao, even the country and 6 XU teachers graduate from special abroad. Some came with their parents, others with their cars, but majority came to finish the Ffour- or five (maybe more?) - year race with their own two legs, sweat and tears. OPCW Associate following training in Europe 26XU CIT gets 5 more The commencement exercises, the 73rd for Xavier University, were held on March 23 and 24. Clad in training their magnificent caps and robes, the graduates, upon hearing their names announced, walked across 24 the stage, received their diploma from the University President, shook his hand and proceeded to take a bow.

Members of the convocation included Dr Milwida Guevara, president and CEO of Synergeia scholars with Pablo Foundation Inc and this year’s commencement speaker and honoris causa recipient, Archbishop Glee Club sings songs of life As gold prices reach record highs, mining operations are Antonio Ledesma SJ DD, peace advocate, founder of the Silsillah Dialogue Movement Fr Sebastiano flourishing anew, but at what cost? D’Ambra of the Pontificio Istituto Missioni Estere, Fr Bienvenido Nebres SJ, former president of the Fr Cal By Vanessa Gorra5 Paras Memorial Fr Cal Poulin SJ: Homage to a life of humble service XAVIER MAGAZINE JANUARY - MARCH 2012 Poulin SJ: 26 Scholarship XU, City Council hold forum on improving Homage Cover Story he Center for Integrated Technologies (CIT) is a fortunate recipient 7 local legislations of the Pablo Paras Memorial Scholarshipto fund, aa scholarship life of ‘Go forth to bring hope program in honor of Pablo Paras, father of Engr Elipidio Paras, to the world’s despair’ In Brief Xavier Ecoville breaks ground chairman of the XU Board of Trustees andhumble proprietor of Parasat 12 29 TCable TV. XU holds commencement and close to 2,000 The scholarship covers tuition, matriculation andservice other fees of students new hopes are born who will study automotive technology, computer & electronics technology, industrial electronics technology or mechanical technology at CIT XU holds 1st Serving Learning summit “He was an excellent mechanic,” related Paras of his father, who came with Culture and the Arts his wife to Cagayan de Oro from Pampanga in 1951 withr Calvin just H P500 Poulin in SJ, his Fr Cal to everyone in the University, was pocket. “Our success is largely because of them,” he saidone of on the behalf most recognizable of his PE Dep’t culminates school year with siblings. He shared that “hopefully, we can add more scholars.”personalities on campus. He was 8 Fan avid fan of sports and music. He was The Pablo Paras Memorial Scholarship will commencea constant school at the University year 2012- intramurals, sports showdown Laughter, screams and kissing scenes: Tatlong Mariya 2013. It is open to all high school graduates from andNorthern during Manresa Mindanao Days, he in would be in the rodeo arena watching rodeo. r 32 and The Xavier Stage At Random need of financial assistance. He was also a usual sight at concerts, especially those held in the Chapel. He Picture Story Picture Story 22 23 JANUARY - MARCH 2012 was a dear friend to many, much loved 32 Culture and the Arts and remembered for the care, generosity he Research and Social Outreach (RSO) cluster dedicated and humor he exhibited in life. Celebrating February to the celebration of the Social Consciousness Month. This year, the theme was “Sendong and Beyond: Strengthening Social Conscious Month TKnowledge and Capacities for Enhanced Resilience.” New appointments and re-appointments Fr Cal died on Feb 19 of complications from brain cancer. He was 81. Xavier University introduces film festivals 9 Born in Amsterdam, New York on April 34 18, 1931, Fr Cal entered the Society of CIT gets 5 more scholars with Pablo Paras Jesus on July 30, 1949. He was ordained Memorial Scholarship a priest on June 16, 1962. He served most of his priesthood years in the 1 February 2-3 February 4 February 8 February 13 February 13-18 February 22 February 25 February 28 February 29 February Philippines, the last 13 years of which RSO launched Social The Governance and The College of Computer A half-day seminar KKP-SIO together with the A week-long photo exhibit The Sustainable Sanitation KKP-SIO and the CSG Dulaang Atenista XU thru RSO partnered Consciousness Month Leadership Institute (GLI) Studies and College of on Climate Change: National Service Training depicting Sendong Center conducted coordinated with RSO in volunteers executed a with the Office of the City were spent at Xavier University as the with a Eucharistic conducted a two-day Engineering through the (a) Native Flora Program spearheaded the was opened at the a symposium on staging “Jam for Hope,” flash mob on proper Vice Mayor Ian Acenas Celebration at the XU Strategic Management Engineering Resource and the National Faculty and Staff Exposure Aggie satellite canteen Sustainable Sanitation at an attempt toward waste segregation in in organizing a forum on University chaplain from 1999-2012, Immaculate Conception Training for Effective Local Center hosted faculty Greening Program to Sendong-affected near the XU gym. The AVR 3. This was attended relaying messages of the cafeteria as part of Researches and Policies: Chapel at 5:30 pm. Dr Legislation at Philtown members and researchers and (b) Mangrove as areas, communities and exhibit was mounted by several nursing hope, courage, inspiration, the Information and Toward Enhanced Local Religious Studies teacher from 2006- Hilly Ann R Quiaoit, VP Hotel for the legislative from the Ateneo de Coastal Buffers and relocation sites. by the Development students, City Health and resilience from the Education Campaign of Legislation for the City Alumni 2008 and Loyola House treasurer from for RSO, provided an staff of Misamis Oriental. Manila University Sedimentation Sink was Communication officials and other related tragic experience of the XU Green Campus Council and the Barangay overview of the event School of Science and given by Dr Jurgenne Department in government agencies’ Sendong through music Agenda. Captains of CDO. 2002-2006. and its corresponding The initiative was in Engineering, Ateneo Primavera at the XU collaboration with CDO officers and civil society and other media. activities. partnership with the Innovation Center, and the Nursing Amphitheater. Cares. organizations’ personnel. The engagement hoped to Vice Mayors’ League of Manila Observatory in a maximize the knowledge In this issue of Xavier Magazine, we’ve Misamis Oriental two-day visit to promote The activity was organized products of XU through collected some of the wonderful stories scholarships with the by the McKeough Marine its RSO units by sharing Feature Engineering Research Center and participated these in popularized that family and friends have of Fr Cal. and Development for in by students and forms useful for local Technology and explore faculty of XU and other legislation, and to jump- Alumni celebrate Grand Homecoming 2011 areas of collaboration to universities and schools start more and deeper address the most pressing in Cagayan de Oro, engagements with the city XAVIER MAGAZINE issue of technology use in as well as some Local government and other 15 February disaster risk reduction and Government Units along LGUs. coastal municipalities and 35 management. A Prayer Rally for Truth barangays. and Accountability was Back-TWO-Back diplomatic experience All High School Alumni Homecoming draws big crowd organized by the KKP-SIO at Divisoria. 11 February 22 – 24 February 10 The Kristohanong Katilingban sa Pagpakabana - Social Involvement Office (KKP-SIO), the Central Student The Regional Center of Expertise – Education for Sustainable Development (RCE-ESD) organized Government (CSG), Atenista Ako Movement (AAM) coordinated with the Research and Social Outreach in a 3-day ‘Compass University’ training workshop. Mr Robert Steele of Sustainability Asia / AtKisson organizing the “Xavier Environment Conference (XECON): The Science of Sendong” at the Nursing Amphitheater. Group facilitated the workshop to 30 selected key stakeholders and partners of RCE-ESD in Northern Mindanao. Presenters were Dr Nereus Acosta on Pre-Analysis of Sendong, Mr Andres Ignacio on Formula for Disaster: A Watershed-based Analysis of Factors that Contributed to the Tragedy of Sendong, Sec Elisea Gozun on Looking The training workshop aimed at introducing a set of tools and methods (COMPASS AND ISIS Beyond Climate Change Impacts: Building Resilience and Adaptation, Engr Dexter Lo on Cagayan De Oro context- ACCELERATOR TOOLKIT), and sharing of ideas on how to transform universities and institutions Laughter, screams and kissing based Why Disasters Happen. of higher learning into role models of sustainability in order to effectively promote education for sustainability and perceive sustainability as an achievable goal. r New student leaders proclaimed The activity was also closely coordinated by the CSG with the office of Sec Nereus Acosta for the participation of delegates from the Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats. Other participants came from universities and Photos by Norman Tan schools within CDO and Bukidnon. Events Calendar: April-June scenes: Tatlong Mariya, and The XAVIER MAGAZINE JANUARY - MARCH 2012 11 BA studes bag ‘I am a Changemaker’ title Picture Story 2012 Xavier Stage At Random aving done five “At Random,” TXS’s first season The season started off with the anniversary. It is a drama about Celebrating February as Social productions in its had it viewers laughing, crying, maiden production, “Ulilang family and patriarchal tyranny, first year as a theater whimpering, shaking and, most Tahanan”; followed by Dalawang and the ties that bind loved Consciousness Month company, The Xavier definitely, swooning. Thekilig Komedya, a twin-bill of “New ones together. It was staged on 22 HStage (TXS) has shown that factor is ever present under the Yorker in Tondo” and “Wanted: February 2010. more than a group that does folds of drama and comedy in A Chaperon”; “Barracks ni plays, it has become a group that every production. Tenyente Fuego”; “Isa pa: The Comedies calls itself a family. Dalawa,” a twin-bill of “Isa Pang Four months later, the company Kawing” and “Dalawa”; and staged “Dalawang Comedya,” a their finale production, “Tatlong twin-bill production of Filipino Mariya”. comedies “New Yorker in The Maiden Tondo” by Marcelino Agana, Jr., and “Wanted: A Chaperon” Hobart Savior, artistic director by Wilfredo Ma Guerero. It of The Xavier Stage and recreated the plays’ dialogues director of the Xavier Center for to fit modern, colloquial Bisaya Culture and the Arts (XCCA), that the audience could easily XAVIER MAGAZINE JULYJANUARY - SEPTEMBER - MARCH 20112012 chose Wilfredo Ma Guerrero’s relate to and laugh with, such as XAVIER MAGAZINE “Ulilang Tahanan” as its maiden changing “Tondo” to “Burgos,” production to commemorate and the ever-uttered “Pag-sure the playwright’s centennial ba?”

XAVIER MAGAZINE 4 Milestones News 5

More than 30 participants MILESTONES from the various departments New Lawyers New Nurses for placing 2nd in the team category during the of the Grade School, High IN BRIEF 3rd Annual Animal Science Quiz Show held at the School, and College attended Congratulations to the College of Law for XU is the 7th top performing nursing school Visayas State University. based on the December 2011 Philippine the workshop. OMM invited garnering a passing percentage of 49.06 Nurse Licensure Exam. XU earned a passing Rodeo winners Clinical Psychologist Sandra above the national passing average of score of 94.59% (350/370) and ten of our C Ebrada of De La Salle 31.93% in the 2011 Bar Examinations. The students landed in the top ten. The XU Rodeo Enthusiasts and the XU Bullriders University-Manila as the new lawyers are: placed second and third, respectively during the resource person. 5th Kalilangan Rodeo Festival held in General Santos City. Zerah Marie Absin, Amor Condeo Bajarla, 2nd place - The activity aimed to introduce Ma Vergel Bersabe, Mia Gretchen Cain, Xavier University inked a Linsid Angelou Tapongot The teams are composed of Carl Richard Copino, art as an effective tool for memorandum of agreement with Eddie C Cuaresma, Leah Renna Dal, Efren Alipato Jr, Joseph Alvin Bayarcal, Karl Phillip psycho-therapy. Various art the China University of Political Abdul Halim Diron, Michael Carl Eclevia, Abunda, Robert Arnel Casiño, Julie Ann Abas and activities using different Science and Law (CUPSL) for CUPSL Melanie Quismundo-Enopia, Lorela Karen Luzette Gayla of the XU Rodeo Team; and modalities were introduced students to take up the Doctorate of Escobero, Gerlyn Gamolo, Craig Shaun Albert Arca, Beau Theodore Gumaling, Christian Public Administration program at Quilang, Mark Jeronimo Elloso, Richard Maliao, to the participants. Since the Bennett Garces, Jeanilyn Grace D XU and for XU professors in Public Victor Billan and Karen Luzette Gayla of the XU process used for the whole Administration to visit CUPSL in Generelao, Marie Rose Gumahad, Bullriders. OMM conducts art duration of the workshop was “experiential,” the Beijing. The partnership is for four Lizzamae Grace La Viña, Buddy Rey participants also had the chance to make use of semesters. Losande, Lionel Maandig Jr, 4th place - Ralph Ryan De La Rosa Athletes reaping medals in 16th therapy workshop for the tools in processing their own life experiences, Christian Peliña, Mary Camille Perez- 6th place - Mark Ray Espinosa UniGames XU faculty which made the workshop even more worthwhile Quililan, Marie Antonette Quinito, 7th place - Neil Obsioma XU students left an indelible mark in the 16th by Ms Libby Josephine M Abesamis, for them. Marites Sangual, Sittie Aisa Philippine University Games held in Roxas City, Asst to the VP for Mission and Ministry Azisaida Tawagon, Rosselle Uy, Capiz, winning a number of gold, silver and The process and concepts learned from the Gerberto Virtudazo Jr, Maynard Eugenio bronze medals. he Office of Mission and Ministry activity will hopefully be used for teaching and Ylagan, Farah Yongco, (OMM) organized an art therapy counseling toward better formation of students, Cathyrine Luarca (BSECE 5) won a gold medal in workshop dubbed, “Art for Life: the Use faculty, and staff. r Representatives from the Space Chess while Paul Omongos (BSCE 1) won a silver. Environment Center, Kysushu New Doctors 8th place - Vincent Jerven Barimbao of Art Activities in Therapy” from March University, Fukoka, Japan carried 8th place - Melanie Grace Go XU’s Taekwondo team took home medals in T9-10 at the Grand City Hotel. out a scheduled maintenance and All nine of XU’s examinees passed the various divisions. Emil Dwight (BSBA 2) received 8th place - Martina Aurea Jugador repair on the MAGDAS unit deployed Physician Licensure Examination given in a silver medal in the Fin Weight division, while at the Manresa Farm. MAGDAS Fulbright Graduate student Program, Fulbright February 2012, and two of them landed in his teammates Kyo Aun Matsumoto (CIT 2), is a comprehensive ground-based John Gil Tagalog (BSEE 2) and John Necho Tidoy the top 10. Of the five medical schools with Fulbright Philippine Agriculture Scholarship Program, monitoring system of the earth’s (BSECE 2) all won bronze medals in the Bantam Fulbright Advance Research and University magnetic field. There are 6 MAGDAS 100% passing rate, XU ranks No 3, tied with Weight, Feather Weight and Fly Weight divisions, UP Manila. The national passing average roadshow comes Lecturing, Foreign Language Teaching Assistants units installed in the country, respectively. including the one in Manresa was 52.5%. Program and the Hubert H. Humphrey 8th place - Carren Agnes Solidor managed by the Engineering Xavier finished with a bronze medal in the to XU Fellowship; and the Non Fulbright Award, which 10th place - Mariel Kris Rael 4x100 m freestyle men and 4x100 m medley Resource Center, and 63 units found Congratulations to the successful examinees, covers the International Leaders in Education all over the world. 10th place - Raiza Mae Rodriguez relay women. The students who competed and Program, Global Undergraduate Exchange all graduates of batch 2010: won in the 4x100 m freestyle were Franz Urich avier University hosted the visit of Program and the East-West Center Fellowship. Philippine Art Awards Grand Prize Bonotan (ABIS 1), Randy Perry Go (BS Psych the Philippine-American Education 2), Ian Gabriel Dilao (BSBio 2) and Michael Foundation (PAEF) to promote the Phillip Bryant D Adlaon , Divina Gracia Winner Marjorie Tolentino, Program Assistant of PAEF, Sheen Ramonal (CIT 1). The women’s team was 2012-2013 Fulbright Scholarship Awards. Amor F Banderado, An-an Pablita O Emata, presented the grant benefits encouraging Jericho Vamenta of XUHS class of 1993 was composed of Micah Kay Salilig (BSECE 2), Micah XPAEF has been visiting institutions around the Jay Edwarde O Hontanosas, Mohrein VI H proclaimed grand prize winner of the prestigious Sayosay (CIT 1), Tessa Katrina Fabria (BSBA 2) aspirants to apply. Scholars will have an all- Ismael, Pamela T Lagumbay, Lara Marie R country providing information on the Fulbright Philippine Art Awards for his painting, “Ang and Marielyn Sadaya (BSAC 4). expense paid international travel, monthly Awards and graduate studies in the USA. Uriarte Walang Humpay na Harana ni Temyo kay stipend, paid tuition, books & supplies, health Magda.” Late last year, he was also won the grand The XU athletes were trained by Rogelio Golez Jr Aspiring applicants from selected colleges and & accidents insurance and lastly, will experience The Colleges of Computer Studies Murphy E Boyles prize in the Metrobank Art and Design Excellence in chess, George Arsenal in Taekwondo and Mark Neri in swimming. They competed with 45 other universities in the city and Xavier University intercultural learning. and Engineering hosted faculty 6th Placer Award. members and researchers from schools nationwide. faculty and students attended the presentation on Fulbright is an international exchange program the Ateneo de Manila University Jericho received a cash prize of P350,000.00, a Feb 8 at the American Corner of the XU Libraries. DOST Best Paper Awardee funded by the U.S. state department offering School of Science and Engineering, trophy designed by national artist N Abueva and a Ateneo Innovation Center and the trip to an Asian country. He and the other winners Eilen Consuelo Valdecañas, Education Adviser opportunities for students, educators and Manila Observatory who came are going around the nation exhibiting their College of Engineering faculty member and founding director of the Engineering Resource of PAEF, which administers the Fulbright professionals to undergo international academic to promote scholarships under winning artworks. Jericho’s painting is also for and graduate programs for study and advance ADMU’s Engineering Research sale. He has been teaching summer art classes at Center Dexter Lo bagged the top prize in the Scholarship Awards in the Philippines, development non-agriculture, forestry, and natural announced the opening of application. research. Established in 1946 by the U.S. and Development for Technology Marc Frances B XU’s Museo de Oro for 16 years. (ERDT) program and identify resources category of the Department of Science Scholarship grants are given to eligible applicants congress, it promotes intercultural learning and Magoncia and Technology Research & Development possible areas of collaboration in Animal Science Quiz Show who are willing to undergo series of screenings mutual understanding between Americans and 8th Placer Symposium Highlights. Lo’s paper was on research and development for the runner-up people of other countries. “Disaster risk mapping of Barangay Carmen flood and can meet deadlines. proposed disaster risk reduction and and fire.” management system of Cagayan de Congratulations to Car Grey La Victoria, Lanesa Applicants can select from two award categories, More information can be gathered from their Oro. Faith Olais and Famela Frances Dianne Yamit, all namely the Fulbright Award, which includes the website: www.fulbright.org.ph. r BS Agriculture students major in Animal Science, XAVIER MAGAZINE JULY - SEPTEMBER 2011 6 News Feature 7 XU holds 19th University Service Awards aculty and staff who have reached a milestone in MS&AD Insurance Group of their years of service Japan and its employees donated at the University were P100,000 through the Bank of Frecognized at the annual the Philippines Islands/Mitsui University Service Awards held Sumitomo for Xavier Ecoville, the on Feb 1 at the Covered Courts. relocation and resettlement project of XU and the LGU Cagayan de University personnel who have Oro for families left homeless by rendered 5 or more years of Sendong. L-R: City Councilor Alden Bacal, Association of Barangay Captains President Engr service (in multiples of five Dometilo Acenas, Atty Jarley Trugillo of the XU Center for Legal Assistance, Vice Mayor Ian years) were awarded Service Acenas, Dr Hilly Ann Roa-Quiaoit, Dr Gemma Narisma, Dr Gina Itchon and Dixon Yasay Certificates and varying tokens to show the University’s appreciation for their loyal and committed service. XU teachers graduate from special XU, City Council hold forum on One of the awardees was Ms training improving local legislations Maria Flerida Nery of the School of Education who has been ew members of “Hopefully, after all the INSETs Participants who completed all serving XU for 45 years. the XU faculty for the whole semester, we can the modules received graduate he Research and Social Outreach Office partnered with the Cagayan de Oro City The School of Business and Management with XU-Catholic Relief successfully produce better teachers; more school credit equivalent to Government through the City Council for a forum titled “Researches and Policies: Toward Service and KKP-SIO conducted a The ceremony also honored completed their dedicated, more committed, three units, a certificate per Enhancing Local Legislation” on February 29 at the City Tourism Hall. employees who are about learning visit to Sumilao, Bukidnon NIn-Service Training (INSET) more compassionate, and module attended for as long exploring opportunities for business to retire this year. Speaking More than 100 participants, most of whom were barangay officials, participated in the forum on March 22 with a simple more understanding teachers,” as they complied with all the T and accounting students to assist on behalf of the retirees was which focused on three things: Typhoon Sendong, water use, and health services in disasters, all in graduation ceremony. INSET says Dr Lourdes Tolod, dean of requirements, and a chance for Sumilao Farmers through the Service Eliodoro Ferenal of the Athletics the context of Cagayan de Oro. The resource speakers were Dr Gemma Narisma, Regional Climate is a special training program the School of Education. lifting of probationary status Learning Model, an approach where Office. Systems Program Head of the Manila Observatory; Dr Hilly Ann Roa-Quiaoit, XU’s vice president students are exposed to real-world designed for all XU college owing to their attendance and The training started with 28 for Research and Social Outreach; and Dr Gina Itchon, chair of the Department of Preventive and situations related to their field of Ferenal started his career in the teachers, especially those who certificates from the INSET. study while serving the needs of the participants. However, the Community Medicine at XU’s Jose P Rizal School of Medicine. University in 1976. He shared are non-education graduates, community. about his experience working number dwindled to 20. Apart In the next round of training, Dr hired three years prior. Barangay officials raised their concerns on dams, quarrying, wetlands and the need for early warning in the High School, where he from conflict in schedule, one Tolod revealed plans of making devices. They also said they want to be informed about results of studies being conducted on issues spent 32 years of his 36 years Started in November last reason cited for the dropout the INSET a two-week intensive about the environment that relate to people’s safety. Dr Quiaoit assured them that the research of service in the University. year, INSET is conducted was TS Sendong, which hit course rather than a semester results will be brought to the barangay level. She also warded off some barangay officials’ fears of a Ferenal also revealed that every Wednesday for an the city last year and affected long program. he had the pleasure to have entire semester. Each week, several XU faculty members. 40-day rain, just as in the Bible, and said that XU is doing in-depth studies on the interconnectivity of taught Fr Antonio Moreno SJ, different modules are taken However, Dr Tolod is grateful The participants and facilitators the ridge, river and reef systems. now president of Ateneo de of INSET pose for a picture up on how to teach effectively. that those who remained Given the presentations of the researchers and the issues raised, Vice Mayor Ian Acenas remarked Zamboanga, as the latter’s high on their last day of training in These include methods and were very persistent and that addressing all concerns related to natural and human-induced disasters is a big challenge. “We school class adviser. the American Corner. (Photo techniques in teaching, the art were fully supported by the need to strengthen our City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council,” he said. r Ferenal cited the Jesuits, retreats of questioning, facilitating, and administration. courtesy of SOE). r and recollections, and some grading of students. of the perks of being an XU The Ateneo Diplomatic Corps, employee such as membership the co-curricular organization of in XU’s cooperatives and cash International Studies students, gifts as some of the things he invited the Consul-General of the Consulate of Malaysia in Mindanao will remember most about XU. Glee Club sings The concert line-up included songs reflecting a humanity and the beauty of the world (From a Mohammad Azhar Mazlan and the Fr Roberto Yap, XU President, person’s journey in life from infancy (Buwa-Buwa Distance and What A Wonderful World); and Second Secretary of the Embassy also gave a message of thanks songs of life ni Utu, a lullaby song) to play (Pinpin di Sarapin) finally a call to take leadership and responsibility of Japan in the Philippines Hiroshi to the faculty and staff for their to teenage angst (Anak); his relationships from for others and for the world (If You’re Out Yamakawa to the first Ateneo committed and dedicated s part of the celebration of the National that of friendship (I’ll be there) to romance There). Diplomatic Corps Convention. Mazlan presented on “Philippines service, especially during the Arts Month, the Xavier University Glee (Kapag Tumibok ang Puso, Ikaw Lamang, and Malaysia: Partners in Combating months he was away from Club rendered beautiful music in the Hanggang); his search for identity and freedom Agos also featured performances from the St Augustine’s Children Choir and XU Grade Terrorism” and Yamakawa shared on office recuperating from a knee Immaculate Conception Chapel on Feb 24 (Blackbird and Pilgrim’s Theme); his spiritual “Philippines and Japan: Advocates surgery. r Ain a concert dubbed, “Agos: Musika ng Buhay.” School student Kryslie Reonal. r discovery (Water Night, Soon Uh Will Be Done of Economic Development in and You Were There); his realization of a shared Southeast Asia.” XAVIER MAGAZINE JULY - SEPTEMBER 2011 8 News News 9

academic output-based researches analysis in the mariculture park communities which he said on development processes and of Balingasag also served as the students’ XU studes receive BPI-DOST Science Awards XU concerns of community partners mentors. “I hope this summit hree XU students Magriña’s research, “An inception in 1989. They will each XU President Fr Roberto Yap, SJ specifically PANAW Sumilao, “Service Learning Program will become the university’s were bestowed the Experimental Study of Coconut receive a plaque of recognition, iterated the role of science and st Impasugong, Balingasag, and (SLP) confirms the real essence annual activity,” Fr Yap added. prestigious BPI-DOST Husk as an Alternative Sound a BPI Express Teller card for their technology in helping manage Holds 1 Lumbia. of Ignatian Education. An Science Award during a Absorbing Acoustic Material,” cash prize of P25,000 and an disaster risks in relation to the education not confined in the Also present during the Tceremony held at the AVR 1 on proved the effectiveness of offer to join BPI as a junior officer. calamity caused by Typhoon Student-researchers from four walls of the classroom,” summit were the community Feb 16. Frances M Gumapon, BS coconut husks as an alternative Sendong two months ago. “We Speaking on behalf of the the school of Business and reflected Jim B. Acut II, one of partners: the Sumilao Farmers, Biology, Franz Daryl Magriña, BS to commercial acoustic materials. do this work not for our own sake Service awardees, Gumapon said that Management and the colleges the SLP student-researchers. “It Claveria Parish, Upper Palalan Electronics Engineering, and Jun but so we can serve others.” He Obispo’s thesis on “Ontology the ceremony was not just about of Engineering, Computer is a realization that my Xavier Parents Children Cooperative Rangie Obispo, BS Computer said he hopes that the awardees Studies, were recognized for their Layer for the Distributed Registry receiving an award but also about will pursue a scientific career and Studies, Agriculture, and Arts Education is indeed not just for (UPPCCO), Bureau of Fisheries Learning excellence in the field of research. of Children with Special Needs” taking part and paying forward. use “science for building our city, and Sciences presented on a self-betterment but community and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) harnesses the use of artificial “The reason for the endless our country, our region.” wide range of topics, namely: development.” Region 10, and the Social Gumapon’s study titled “Microbial intelligence in helping health care hours in the lab is the value of setting up an accounting Involvement Offices of Ateneo Load Gradient of the Ambient professionals retrieve relevant our study, “she said recognizing The BPI-DOST Science Awards Summit Fr Roberto Yap SJ, university by Wilson J Hormeguera system, feasibility studies and de Zamboanga, Miriam College, Air in the Landfill Site in Zayas, information on special-needs the contribution of their recognizes the contributions infrastructure design for the president, said that he was and University of St La Salle Carmen” computed the amount of children. researches in advancing national of budding scientists and avier University, through Panaw Sumilao Multi-Purpose “very impressed and very happy Bacolod. bacteria present in the ambient air development. She added that she researches to nation-building. r Gumapon, Magriña and Obispo Kristohanong Katilingban Cooperative, the use of GIS and knowing about the Service of the landfill in Zayas toward the is grateful “for the opportunity to are the 22nd batch of awardees sa Pagpakabana – Social other computer systems for Learning Summit because XU’s SLP is in collaboration residential areas, and identified the contribute.” bacteria to the genus level. from XU since the Awards Involvement Office price monitoring of agricultural indeed our university responds with the Catholic Relief Services X(KKP-SIO) in collaboration with commodities, case study on to Fr Pedro Arrupe’s call of and is currently coordinated by the various schools and colleges nutritional assessment, IEC putting theories into ‘praxis.’” Arniel D Daluz of KKP-SIO. r and partner institutions, held the campaign on WASH, moral He thanked the student- 1st Service Learning Summit. The XU CIT gets 5 more scholars with socialization of mothers in researches and their mentors, summit showcased students’ Lumbia, and total coliform KKP-SIO and the partner Pablo Paras Memorial Scholarship

P.E Culminating Activity 2012 he Center for Integrated Technologies (CIT) is a fortunate recipient of the Pablo Paras Memorial Scholarship fund, a scholarship program in honor of Pablo Paras, father of Engr Elipidio Paras, chairman of the XU Board of Trustees and proprietor of Parasat Cable TV. he Xavier University Physical Education Department celebrated the yearly Culminating Activity last March 3, 2012 Saturday. The best sections from PE TThe scholarship covers tuition, matriculation and other fees of students who will study 4(Team sports) and PE 2(dance) had a clash in the activity. The activity was automotive technology, computer & electronics technology, industrial electronics technology or mechanical divided into schedule team sports in the morning while cultural dance in the technology at CIT Tafternoon. PE 4 had three sets of sport contest, the volleyball, softball and karate, and sections from PE 2 showcase their talents in the different varieties of dance form such “He was an excellent mechanic,” related Paras of his father, who came with his wife to Cagayan de Oro as Filipiniana, Ethnic, Contemporary, and Foreign/ international dances. Best sections from Pampanga in 1951 with just P500 in his pocket. “Our success is largely because of them,” he said on and individuals were chosen by each PE instructor to fight for the trophy. r behalf of his siblings. He shared that “hopefully, we can add more scholars.”

The Pablo Paras Memorial Scholarship will commence school year 2012-2013. It is open to all high school graduates from Northern Mindanao in need of financial assistance. r XAVIER MAGAZINE JULY - SEPTEMBER 2011 10 News News 11 New student leaders proclaimed

ome school year 2012-2013, University students will be welcomed and served by a new set of student leaders.

C Dean Cris Acabo, 4th year BS Chem Eng, was proclaimed president and his Alyansang Atenista running mate Sean Jared Lastimoso, 3rd year BS Psychology, the vice president after the online polls from Feb 28 to March 1.

Voting turnout hovered at 37%, lower than last year’s 40%. Acabo and Lastimoso were also uncontested candidates. The ABIS-ADC Manila Delegation with Vice Central Student Government (CSG) Electoral Commission head not many contenders. However, the disappointing figures were President Jejomar Binay at the Coconut Palace Back-TWO-Back Jonas Porminal surmised that Typhoon Sendong, which devastated attributed mostly to the rolling black outs the city experienced. Cagayan de Oro last year, might have affected the number of Diplomatic Experience candidates running for CSG and college council positions this year. This was the second year that the CSG used a web-based system By Alyssa Marize Z. Maghuyop(ABIS-4), Dirika D. Pacamalan(ABIS-3), Maria Therese D. Agcopra(ABIS-3) for the campus elections, although automated elections started in “January was registration period,” he said, and people were still fter the success of the educational mentioned countries. Throughout the tour, 2009. The web-based system was developed by Computer Science recovering from the disaster. Having fewer candidates to choose tour in Bangkok last year, the they were accompanied by the Department students. from could have also contributed to the decrease in voting turnout, Ateneo Diplomatic Corps (ADC), Assistant Chairperson Rachel Daroy and A but not by much, Porminal continued. Dean Cris Acabo and Sean Jared Lastimoso promise collaborative the co-curricular organization of XU AB in ADC moderator Jal Parreño Octavio with and simple yet effective solutions to students’ concerns r International Studies students, organized faculty members Aristotle Maniquiz, Nell In 2010, when voting turnout was only 12%, there were also another round of tours. Two batches of Obach and Michael Ngo. educational tours were conducted to give The ABIS-ADC Manila Delegation at the Embassy of A second batch composed of twenty-five Spain in Makati City students the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of their course, to learn from students went on an exposure trip to the people who are in the same field and to be Malaysia and Singapore. BA studes bag “I am a exposed to their potential future careers. In the federation of Malayan states, the The first batch composed of fifty students group was welcomed by Ambassador Changemaker” title visited different political and diplomatic Eduardo Malaya who shared on the bilateral institutions. Among the VIPs they met were relations between Philippines and Malaysia. Vice President Jejomar Binay at the Coconut After which the group went to visit the Ethniko Filipino Handicrafts was declared the Mindanao winner of the Palace, DFA spokesperson Raul Hernandez United Nations University-International “I am a Changemaker” competition of the British Council. The bag and Foreign Service Institute director Institute for Global Health and the United designed and made by XU students bested five other finalists from Undersecretary Laura del Rosario. Nations High Commission for Refugees. Mindanao. The ABIS-ADC International Delegation with Amb. In the island city-state, the group visited the Ethniko Filipino Handicrafts is a micro-enterprise of Business Minda Cruz at the Philippine Embassy in Singapore They were also able to attend the budget hearing of the Aurora Economic Pacific Embassy of the Philippines where they were Administration students at XU. They were among the twenty groups Economic Zone and Freeport Authority at welcomed by Ambassador Minda Calaguian- from all over the country chosen from a multitude of applicants to the House of Representatives where they Cruz and received a briefing on the bilateral be part of the “I am a Changemaker “ social enterprise business plan received a briefing from the Committee relations between Philippines and Singapore competition. Five finalists were chosen from each geographic cluster: on Foreign Affairs and welcomed by from Consul-General Neil Imperial. Mindanao, Visayan, Luzon and NCR. Together with Ethniko Filipino in the Mindanao cluster are Earth Team, comprised of several Xavier its chairman Rep Al Francis Bichara The students also stopped by the Asia-Pacific and assistant majority floor leader Rep University alumni; and The Notebook, comprised of first year XU Economic Cooperation Headquarters and students. Benjo Benaldo. The students also met the Lee Kwan Yew School of Public Policy Representatives Rufus Rodriguez, Maximo at the National University of Singapore and Two representatives for each of the twenty finalists were flown to Rodriguez, Yevgeny Emano, Isidro Lico, the S. Rajaratnam School of International Cebu and given a three-day training on Social Enterprise Planning Vicente Belmonte, Imelda Quibranza- The ABIS-ADC International Delegation at the United Studies at Nanyang Technological University and Development facilitated by the Social Enterprise Development Dimaporo and Lucy Torres-Gomez. Nations University in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia where they had their academic and curricular Partnerships, Inc (SEDPI). Fourth-year BA students Oliver Maneja and Rounding up their tour were trips to the benchmarking. They were accompanied by Chris Jumalon represented Ethniko Filipino. At the end of the training, embassies of the United States of America, their Department Chairperson Catalina Gaite the groups presented their business plans in front of a panel of judges. Japan, Spain, and Indonesia where the and ABIS program coordinator Manilee Ethniko emerged as the Mindanao winner and was awarded P100,000 students learned about the bilateral Pañares. r as start-up capital. r relations between the Philippines and those XAVIER MAGAZINE JULY - SEPTEMBER 2011

12 13 ‘Go forth to bring hope to the world’s despair’

or the nearly 2,000 graduates, the XU Gym was where it all came down to – the last stop in their journey through college. It wasn’t so long ago when these students entered the university as freshmen from all walks of life, all sorts of faith, all parts of Mindanao, even the country and abroad. Some came with their parents, others with their cars, but majority came to finish the Ffour- or five (maybe more?) - year race with their own two legs, sweat and tears.

The commencement exercises, the 73rd for Xavier University, were held on March 23 and 24. Clad in their magnificent caps and robes, the graduates, upon hearing their names announced, walked across the stage, received their diploma from the University President, shook his hand and proceeded to take a bow.

Members of the convocation included Dr Milwida Guevara, president and CEO of Synergeia Foundation Inc and this year’s commencement speaker and honoris causa recipient, Archbishop As gold prices reach record highs, mining operations are Antonio Ledesma SJ DD, peace advocate, founder of the Silsillah Dialogue Movement Fr Sebastiano flourishing anew, but at what cost? D’Ambra of the Pontificio Istituto Missioni Estere, Fr Bienvenido Nebres SJ, former president of the

By Vanessa Gorra XAVIER MAGAZINE JULY - SEPTEMBER 2011 14 Cover Story Cover Story 15 Ateneo de Manila University, XU administrators, board of trustees, faculty, staff and alumni. All of them, also sophisticatedly dressed in their academic robes, reminded the graduates that they still had a lot to achieve in their education.

From college to career

The question on the minds of many college graduates is “where does the road lead from here?” For Dr Guevera, the walk across the stage led to P Gomez Elementary School. If she had had it her way, she would have wanted to join the Ateneo, but as God’s way would have it, she wound up teaching public school children in Grade 3 Section 28. She confessed that the first mistake she had ever made as a professional was to compare herself with others. Unlike her friends, she didn’t own a car, had no air-conditioned office and still ate at the central market near the school. But being around kids who woke up very early every morning to sell newspaper before coming to school and meeting their parents who did back-breaking labor to be paid a pittance that did not get the family out of the slums taught her her first lesson in being a person for others.

For a long time, she worked at the department of finance where she enraged powerful people who didn’t quite agree with the tax reforms she introduced. She wept in fear but did There on the stage addressing the class in service that is hard to quantify in financial They reached out to strangers and helped by the flood.” And while Ryan can’t wait the university and their own) and the world not cower. After that she said she fell into of 2012, she got the commitment of the terms. Making a career is more than just change people’s lives. They made up for to go out there and start, Fr Bobby Yap as a whole. They had their own reasons a deep sleep. But being an educator from graduates and those around to do their part earning a living. the service the government fell short of SJ, the university president, can’t hide the for coming to Xavier. But now as they the very beginning, she was pinched out in helping Filipino children complete at least ‘Sendong’ graduates giving. By the time Cagayan de Oro fully enormity of the present challenge. A world hug and bid each other goodbye hoping of her slumber by the crushing reality that grade six. recovers, this class will have been part of the literally breaking apart is the reality that will to meet again in the bright future, they education in the country is out-of-reach If the claim to fame of the class of 1942 is While there are those who leave college rebuilding and renewing process of the city. stare these graduates in the face. Yet, he is have the experience of Sendong to band to many Filipinos. Not only was basic the Pearl Harbor and the class of 1986 the soaring straight to the heart of industry confident that the XU graduates will hurdle them forever. The miracles, the tragedy, education inaccessible among the poor, kids EDSA revolution, the class of 2012, related and finance, the path for Dr Guevara was Class valedictorian Ryan Madrid is these challenges with “courage, creativity the prosperity, the poverty are made more who were fortunate enough to be in school Fr George Esguerra, the vice president for long and winding, with many obstacles proof. Ryan who finished Development and compassion because we Ateneans beautiful because they will be remembered. performed poorly at science and math. She Mission and Ministry, will be remembered as along the way. She is an inspiration, even Communication cum laude and active know that all we have to do is to give hands has since made it her advocacy at Synergeia the class that survived Sendong. And as they spill out from the University to those whose graduation was many volunteer during the Sendong relief in help and hearts in love and entrust our Foundation, the organization she leads, to into their own communities, XU’s only years ago. Here was a person in no way operations, has chosen to work for Xavier best efforts to the good and loving God.” improve the reading proficiency, writing and This is the class that saw Cagayan de Oro on extraordinary performing the extraordinary Ecoville, the relocation and resettlement prayer is that “they may go forth to bring numeracy skills of public school children, its knees. In the time of what was supposed task of collapsing distance between people, project of Xavier University with the city When they started at XU, these graduates hope to the world’s despair, light to its especially in ARMM where figures are much to be merry making and Christmas parties, reaching out to the remotest public school government. He says he is “fired up to help came from different backgrounds, and darkness, service to its selfishness and love more depressing. To date, her organization this class volunteered with the university, and introducing programs that would make rebuild the lives of 500 families displaced thus had different perspectives on life (in to its hatred.” r has helped more than 250 municipalities. church groups and non-profit organizations. education better for the poor. There is value XAVIER MAGAZINE JULY - SEPTEMBER 2011 16 Feature 17 New Appointments and audience to commit to some simple mitigation measures that Re-appointments conserve energy and water, such us unplugging unused electronic he Board of Trustees of Xavier University in its March meeting has appointed/re-appointed devices, turning off the tap when the following people to lead various units in the University starting June 2012. not in use, particularly to use a glass when toothbrushing, and switching to mass transit or T unmotorized transit systems. Bro Noel B Cantago Ruth S Beltran MD Roel R Ravanera As part of adaptation measures, (until May 2015) (until May 2015) (until May 2013) Vice President for Mission Dean, Jose P Rizal School of Dean, College of Agriculture she cited capturing rain water and Ministry, replacing Fr Medicine for washing clothes and flushing George S Esguerra SJ who toilets. “Rain means we have retired this year fresh water. Why not use it?” Harvesting rain, she said, should be done in all levels starting from Lourdes G Tolod PhD Virginia C Yacapin PhD Fr Joaquin Jose Ma C Sumpaico SJ the household, and to look at (until May 2013) (until May 2013) (until May 2014) Singapore as a model. Rainwater Dean, School of Education Dean, School of Principal, High School, replacing Fr Business and Management Stephen T Abuan SJ could also be used to recharge XECON 2012 calls for giving aquifers, she added.

humanity a second chances Other measures she mentioned included support for forest elegates from various The severity of floods, such effort of governments, private protection and rehabilitation of schools and universities as that brought by Sendong, sector, NGOs, communities and water sheds, building houses in the city met face-to- is affected by several factors. other development partners to on stilts in flood prone areas, face with environmental J Andres Ignacio, director for manage and adopt to a changing urban farming and more inland Dexperts in an effort to strengthen planning and geomatics manager, and more invasive environment.” rather than coastal infrastructure partnerships and engagements environmental science for social development. Maria Ressa for the environment during the change, said that apart from the Under the sustainable Ultimately, “It is the government’s Xavier Environment Conference amount of rainfall, topography, development framework, the responsibility to keep you out of headlines first (XECON) hosted by Xavier devastation from floods can Secretary imparted two tracks harm’s way,” Gozun said. University in celebration of the either be assuaged or aggravated being pursued: mitigation NM comm (reducing greenhouse gas Social Consciousness Month in by land cover and location of No Planet B student February. settlements and infrastructures. emissions) and adaptation (reducing risk). She shared the “If you don’t take care of ecology, congress Not purely environmental “Most natural disasters are National Climate Change Action there will be no economy,” said By Kathleen Emillie Araña manmade,” said Ignacio. In Plan of the Aquino administration Acosta who highlighted the Sec Neric Acosta, presidential Cagayan de Oro, areas most that has as its goal “to build the importance of leadership in adviser for environmental devastated by Sendong were adaptive capacity of communities planning for the environment. protection, iterated man’s those located along rivers and and increase the resilience of contribution to the destruction stream channels. natural ecosystems to climate “Government officials have ulti-awarded journalist Maria The team from Rappler.com, an online news “Challenge the status quo. Make sense. Start of the environment. He said change, and optimize mitigation the mandate to think and plan Ressa topbilled the first site where Ressa is chief executive, glued the a ripple now. Tip it to change it,” said the that Typhoon Sendong was not Igancio said that part of the role of opportunities towards sustainable ahead,” he said stressing on ever gathering of student eager house to two hours of stories, statistics team as their parting words. purely environmental. He shared the academe is to secure reliable development.” the greater responsibility of pictures of flood simulations biophysical and sociological data communicators from around and explanations on the causal relationship governments to protect their Various journalism contests were also done three years ago showing and help develop systems aimed In developing a “climate risk- citizens. “If we are not up to this MNorthern Mindanao. between information and the world today. areas vulnerable to sea level at adaptation. resilient Philippines with healthy, conducted alongside the forum. XU Dev [challenge], we shouldn’t be in the rise, storm surge and saltwater safe, prosperous and self-reliant position of leadership.” Ressa with colleagues from Rappler.com Ressa explained, “Social Media is changing Com students won in the Public Service intrusion. Acosta said that the Building Resilience communities, and thriving and Patricia Evangelista, Chay Hofileña and Josh the way you think, it’s rewiring your brain.” Announcement category while Kristoffer flood simulations, which he productive ecosystems,” Gozun Acosta continued that it is up to “Many of our LGUs are highly emphasized were not forecasts said that the government is every person to adapt to climate Villanueva were the guest speakers at “Sibya,” She added that, “it has so much power and James Nambatac of The Crusader Publication vulnerable and located in coastal and done by a pool of experts focusing on seven climate-smart change. “The second chance is a forum on “Social Media for Social Change” [so] should be used responsibility.” placed first in poster making. Winners of the areas,” said Sec Elisea Gozun, and based on more than 300 priorities, namely food security, for us to take,” he expounded. “It organized by The Crusader Publication essay competition for collegiate and high presidential assistant for climate peer reviewed scientific articles, water sufficiency, ecosystem and is up to us to rethink, improve Journalism is heading fast towards the change. She added that climate with the Development Communication school were Shaine Mae Recaborda, AB- reflected the same path Sendong environmental stability, human our science and technology, and electronic medium, and story gathering and change has caused increased Department on Feb 17 at SM City. The Communications from La Salle University, followed. security, climate-smart industries better our governance. In the end, intensity of tropical cyclones. telling are evolving as rapidly. “There are and services, sustainable energy, “We don’t have a Planet B.” r event brought together – for the first time Ozamis City and Val Amiel Vestil from Changes in climate and weather stories everywhere. You just need to know The Philippines is currently the and knowledge and capacity – communication students, veteran and Liceo de Cagayan University. r 3rd most disaster prone country patterns are further aggravated by where to look,” shared Villanueva, whose development. budding journalists, and media outlets in and in the world, behind India and the loss of forests. expertise is on multimedia. China, according to the Centre for “The call of the new president around the region. Gozun said responding to climate Research on the Epidemiology of is inclusive development,” change requires the “concerted Disasters based in Brussels. Gozun said. She asked the XAVIER MAGAZINE JULY - SEPTEMBER 2011 18 Feature Feature 19

Our first week went to time was given by Dr Jim Willis, hese streets will and living like a New Yorker for adjustments and familiarization. chairman of the Department make you feel a year. The 12-hour difference between of Journalism and author of brand new. The That US trip was courtesy of the Philippines and US EST “Piece of My Heart,” “The Media lights will inspire (eastern standard time) Effect,” “100 Media Moments “Tyou. Let’s hear it for New York, SUSI’s (Study in the United Beyond completely disrupted our sleeping that Changed America.” He New York, New York!” States Institute) New Media in Journalism, an intensive hours. However, having to burn cautioned us young journalists The lines of Jay-Z and Alicia academic program with a the midnight oil to survive well in to adhere to the principle and the Key’s song, “Empire State of balanced composition of DevCom made adapting easy for essence of objectivity regardless Mind,” make you imagine what seminar discussions, readings, me. And, there was definitely no of circumstance, a very timely New York looks like and aspire presentations and lectures as such thing as “Filipino time!” and valuable lesson for aspiring journalists. concrete to experience the best it can coursework and classroom Dr Mary Spillman, academic offer. The big lights will truly activities, complemented by director and Suzy Smith, SUSI- Coming from the “freest” Asian inspire you especially when you educational travels to other Ball State administrative director country, Team Pilipinas, had so jungle, are staring with mesmerized states, local site visits and led the Department of Journalism many media stories shared in the eyes at those lustrously volunteer opportunities. and Telecommunications faculty first assignment. beaming gigantic billboards of Our program scrutinizes and staff in their warm welcome Time Square before watching major topics in journalism, of our group. John Paul Hipolito Dr Spillman, the next lecturer, from US the Broadway musical, Wicked! including the concept of free and Angel Bombarda of De La underlined the need for press, the First Amendment, courage in asking questions I’ve always wanted to explore Salle University, Mel Aguilar of St. media’s relation to public La Salle University, Mark Joenel and perseverance in getting the world. It is like a, treasure interest and media business relevant information, in effective with love trove of surprises and things Castillo and Mikhail Blacer of models. My first two years of journalism. We were advised not that more than meet the eye. West Visayas State University and college covered some of these Gabriel Billones Jr of MSU-Iligan to allow ourselves to be limited I still remember a childhood from Afghanistan. The terror The next day saw us back at topic but participation in the Institute of Technology and I by mediocrity and, that because dream of studying abroad, now and conflict in the area did not the grind. For the rest of the program allowed me to absorb made up the Philippine team. of high competition in media, we actually fulfilled, through SUSI. the powers of media over should bag an excellent story, as deter Sean Callebs, a former week, we pored over US History, people and the pros and cons war correspondent now working Government and Foreign Policy Everyone who knows of my We held classes in the state- much as possible. Her rich and of media messages we are with US the Department of State with Professor Brandon Waite, first semester in the US of-the-art media labs in the Art colorful AP (Associated Press) subjected to daily. from talking about his fruitful of the BSU Political Science would always excitedly blurt & Journalism Building. Our journalism experience inspired encounters and death-defying Department. Glaring similarities out queries on the weather, laboratory on the third floor can us to set the bar higher in our This year’s host was Ball State moments. His candid responses in Philippine and US policies Hollywood stars, shopping bear witness to how we coped future profession. It takes passion University in Muncie, Indiana, to our questions revolved for (attributable to their colonization with dollars...” And I would be with the pressure and savored the and drive, overcoming adverse a Midwestern state. We went the most part on the chaotic of our archipelago in the past) like “Oh, man! One at a time,” fun of learning American media behind-the-scenes situations, to through several workshops situations he overcame and how made that study interesting, at while happily and proudly and history. get the news. Knowing you have facilitated by faculty experts he tried to cheat death many the same time, intriguing. filling them in on the places satiated the public’s thirst for (and experienced newsmen/ Learning about American news information is your reward. times just for a story. and sights like the Hudson women) in emerging media, media, I wondered why Filipino Pose ala ‘millésime’ River Cruise, Statue of Liberty, leadership and cross-cultural journalists have to fear for The rare opportunity of meeting The Fourth of July picnic at Between journalistic the Manhattan Skyline, the learning. Southeast Asia their lives when both countries veteran journalists honed by the Minnetrista Park was the assignments, we savored the Museum of Natural History delegates hailed from Malaysia, exercise freedom of the press. time turned more exciting highlight of our second week. landmarks to different aspects at the Smithsonian Institute. Indonesia, and, of course, the Does the US First Amendment when we had dinner at Scotty’s Celebrating America’s foremost of American History, the Henry The list is endless, including Philippines. have anything to do with it, or Brewhouse with the former occasion was a cause for Ford Museum displaying vintage an autographed dedication is it because of the absence of a Good Morning American anchor ruminations on our Philippine and presidential cars, aircraft and from Jim Davis, the creator of Ball State University is famous Freedom of Information bill in and Asia Bureau chief Steve Independence Day celebrations locomotives and the Greenfield Garfield, Daniel Radcliff after for the tallest bell tower in the Philippines? Traversing this Bell. He regaled us with the with marching bands and Village commemorating the a Broadway performance and Indiana, and, more importantly, road led to more questions than twists and turns of controversial reenactments of Rizal’s life, Civil War and Industrialization oh well, the shopping sprees at excellence in journalism plus its answers. news like the Watergate Scandal over scrumptious dinner amid Era. These jaunts were perfect Kenneth Cole, H&M, etc. academic collaboration with the and the Marcoses. I was awed laughter with fellow participants practices for our Web Still New York Times – a highlight MEDIA STARSTRUCK and definitely star struck! His and numerous photo ops. By SUSI IN BALL STATE Photography and Audio classes. for any aspiring news journalist. credibility is unquestionable. That sundown at 9pm, our eyes Its graduates excel in different We began our education with We struck many a period pose A SUSI colleague, who was opportunity was such a treat and feasted on the sparkles and a new spelling of Filipino, in those locales, which we then fields in the media. David an honor. flashes of the 30-minute fireworks in the US purely for fun and “Philippino,” coined by Dr Letterman, the famous TV host lighting up the sky to the music topped with a Mediterranean leisure, tagged me a “lucky Charles Payne, BSU Director and comedian, is a Ball State FOURTH OF JULY FIREWORKS! of Katy Perry’s Fireworks. The dinner at Greektown in bastard.” That may be true, in for the Office of Institutional alumnus who recently had a festive commemoration of July Downtown Detroit. A wonderful part, because my US trip was a Diversity. Our first journalism We had classes on July 1st, building in the campus named 4, 1776 was reflected all over the conclusion to our Hamptons lot more than just those junkets lesson, Foundations of American through Skype, with our intrepid after him. USA. sojourn. to the Empire State Building Journalism and New Media, resource person all the way XAVIER MAGAZINE JULY - SEPTEMBER 2011 20 Feature Feature 21

nine other university students marveled at its design. As usual, just an edifice but a living This is one extraordinary trip and guests from different we took photos to hark back remembrance of this great shared with extraordinary companies. I was so struck by those moments. Amidst the man’s deeds for humanity. people. SUSI now has its special how these journalists attained clicking and posing, something Right nearby is the Washington chamber in our hearts, providing one of the pinnacles in this caught our attention – President Monument, a Neo-Egyptian us those inspiring media profession. I met Jill Abramson, Barack Obama’s car! We had a style structure which is another encounters and personalities, the executive editor, with other glimpse of his silhouette inside must-see. starstruck moments gazing at editors and reporters. That was the presidential car, leading its celebrities and the silhouette one mind blowing morning! convoy of escorts. One moment Before museum hopping, we of the president himself, and It inspired us all to dedicate we could not miss! first strolled over to the US people we hadn’t expected to ourselves not just to journalism Capitol, as usual full of tourists. become like our family. but to other future careers we’d That’s just one of DC’s exciting It is an impressive piece of choose. We also met Deputy offerings. Besides, we had an architecture, besides being This journey made me realize Editor Kathleen McElroy and enlightening trip to the Voice of pivotal in US government. that journalism has been a reporter Jacques Steinberg. America (VOA) and National battleground for truth, digging it Public Radio (NPR), both The scheduled tours done, out and proclaiming it. Presently, Then we had a tour of the we had our last “American United Nations offices. traditional big names in US though, the advent of technology media. Shopping” adventure, hitting and social media, makes anyone Did I mention that the Nordstrom and the rest of think s/he can be a journalist. Multimedia Editor of NYT is a We had our own plans of Fashion Centre at Pentagon City. This reality has threatened Filipino? He is Andrew DeVigal. touring the nation’s capital. We topped the night with dinner the essence of journalism. Some of his works are Emmy With kababayan JP from La Salle Italiano at Buca di Beppo, our Journalism is a science that nominees. This shows that and Natasha from Indonesia, I ‘last supper.’ calls for logical approaches and hopped to the Smithsonian Air America’s latest techie pastime LEADERS ON VOLUNTEER system of choosing recipients. Our first stop was the place Filipinos excel in whatever fields intense commitment, not merely and Space Museum displaying I know, good things always come then was Facebook videocalling. Apparently in the US, jobless made famous by murder and they are in. We deserve applause tapping on an Ipad. It’s also the Apollo 11 and other spaceships. to an end. Not the memories, At our high-end laboratories, Again I saw how leadership folks queuing for food still had revolutions – Gettysburg, for being world-class. art of walking and not crossing Then we headed to the Natural though, that we share from that of course we were getting to sparks the volunteerism spirit. their cars. It was quite a brand Pennsylvania, the most the line. After reveling in the Statue of Museum while taking in the common journey. We were know Google+. Our class This time I also experienced a new feeling for us. significant place during the US Liberty Cruise, we, shop-aholic delightful sights along the way. having the time of our lives Journalism in our country is hung out on Google+ with Erin turn-around where volunteerism Civil War. The whole place is Filipinos, went to rock the The museum has different while gathering lessons from still critical, embryonic. Press Cubert, The Tennessean Social stirred the leader in us. Both those two institutions gave dotted with cemeteries. Touring stores around Times Square. species of flora and fauna, our teachers and the media freedom is limited, lives are at Media Editor. She brought out us overwhelming enrichment, the various monuments we Part of our tour was volunteer Then we trooped to watch a gemstones and fossils from tours, getting assignments and risk, to say the least. Journalism the power social networking besides the fun, of unleashing ended the day with short films work each Wednesday, Broadway musical, “Wicked: various eras and periods. You projects done, sharing dreams is not dying, nor will it succumb. endows journalists with, and the leaders within us. Leaders commemorating the lives joining other volunteers in The Untold Story of the Witches are met at the entrance by the and future hopes and boisterous It is merely transforming to its transformation of news DO come out from unexpected offered to cut the strands of building houses for Habitat of Oz” starring Teal Wicks and biggest elephant ever dated. laughter at breaktimes and the better serve the public. It is not and information delivery to circumstances. slavery in this part of America. for Humanity recipients. We Kendra Kassenbaum. The sets long bus rides while belting out an easy profession, but one the public. This is the current Then our long bus trip took us hammered our way up to the These opportunities were were lavish and magical, the The Lincoln Memorial, one our own version of “Empire worth living and dying for. r venue for disseminating news through Ohio to New Jersey. At attic. It was a great experience, further strengthened by weekly performances defying gravity. I of the most visited places in State of Mind,” which had and personal comments and the Hyatt Hotel, we enjoyed a working with strangers with trainings and workshops with don’t wonder why this must-see the US, offers a historic and become our journey’s theme. interaction, and even scoops. splendid view of the New York whom you share the same Ms Nicole Johnson of the was featured in Glee. momentous feeling . It is not skyline. Facebook, Twitter and other vision and passion, like this Department of Communication sites have forever changed the A Silhouette to mature couple who’ve been at Sciences. She inspired us to It was more heart-pounding media horizon. remember this work for decades. Indeed, be problem solvers instead of the next day. The whole bus age doesn’t matter, even in mere leaders, to be the change The comics section of most rang with our National Anthem Washington, DC, our final leadership. the world needs. She gave us national papers reveals a on the way to our Big Apple destination, delights like no the five practices of exemplary chubby orange ball of fur that appointment – the New York other. Here, politics and culture, Besides building houses, leadership: 1) model the way; meows, Garfield! This cat Times. By any means, that route history and style, converge. The we also fed people through 2) inspire a shared vision; 3) put Muncie, Indiana on the was one photo op after another, city was fashioned after Paris Second Harvest Food Bank, challenge the process; 4) enable world map. We were treated from NYC’s bustling streets all by City designer Pierre Charles an institution distributing food others to act; and 5) encourage to a furry, orangey tour of the the way to the NYT Lobby. L’Enfant. donated by Walmart and other the heart. By all these things I Paws Company by Jim Davis, companies to the needy or will remember her. Eager to be part of the Right after the culmination Garfield’s creator. After which unemployed. We packed and exhilarating Battle of Ideas, I program at the Department we heard of his ascent to distributed in a very organized The Big Apple gave my all to reply to a query, of State and discussions of stardom from scratch, then system, to the cars that lined for which I was rewarded future opportunities, we were received an autographed up. Cars?! Of course we were Then it was time for an exciting inclusion in their Page One stunned by the facade of the dedication from him. Counting shocked until they explained the trip to other parts of the US. stars! Meeting that day along with White House. We speechlessly

XAVIER MAGAZINE JULY - SEPTEMBER 2011 22 Picture Story Picture Story 23

he Research and Social Outreach (RSO) cluster dedicated Celebrating February to the celebration of the Social Consciousness Month. This year, the theme was “Sendong and Beyond: Strengthening Social Conscious Month TKnowledge and Capacities for Enhanced Resilience.”

1 February 2-3 February 4 February 8 February 13 February 13-18 February 22 February 25 February 28 February 29 February

RSO launched Social The Governance and The College of Computer A half-day seminar KKP-SIO together with the A week-long photo exhibit The Sustainable Sanitation KKP-SIO and the CSG Dulaang Atenista XU thru RSO partnered Consciousness Month Leadership Institute (GLI) Studies and College of on Climate Change: National Service Training depicting Sendong Center conducted coordinated with RSO in volunteers executed a with the Office of the City with a Eucharistic conducted a two-day Engineering through the (a) Native Flora Program spearheaded the was opened at the a symposium on staging “Jam for Hope,” flash mob on proper Vice Mayor Ian Acenas Celebration at the XU Strategic Management Engineering Resource and the National Faculty and Staff Exposure Aggie satellite canteen Sustainable Sanitation at an attempt toward waste segregation in in organizing a forum on Immaculate Conception Training for Effective Local Center hosted faculty Greening Program to Sendong-affected near the XU gym. The AVR 3. This was attended relaying messages of the cafeteria as part of Researches and Policies: Chapel at 5:30 pm. Dr Legislation at Philtown members and researchers and (b) Mangrove as areas, communities, and exhibit was mounted by several nursing hope, courage, inspiration, the Information and Toward Enhanced Local Hilly Ann R Quiaoit, VP Hotel for the legislative from the Ateneo de Coastal Buffers and relocation sites. by the Development students, City Health and resilience from the Education Campaign of Legislation for the City for RSO, provided an staff of Misamis Oriental. Manila University Sedimentation Sink was Communication officials and other related tragic experience of the XU Green Campus Council and the Barangay overview of the event School of Science and given by Dr Jurgenne Department in government agencies’ Sendong, through music Agenda. Captains of CDO. and its corresponding The initiative was in Engineering, Ateneo Primavera at the XU collaboration with CDO officers and civil society and other media. activities. partnership with the Innovation Center, and the Nursing Amphitheater. Cares. organizations’ personnel. The engagement hoped to Vice Mayors’ League of Manila Observatory in a maximize the knowledge Misamis Oriental two-day visit to promote The activity was organized products of XU through scholarships with the by the McKeough Marine its RSO units by sharing Engineering Research Center and participated these in popularized and Development for in by students and forms useful for local Technology and explore faculty of XU and other legislation, and to jump- areas of collaboration to universities and schools start more and deeper address the most pressing in Cagayan de Oro, engagements with the city issue of technology use in as well as some Local government and other 15 February disaster risk reduction and Government Units along LGUs. coastal municipalities and management. A Prayer Rally for Truth barangays. and Accountability was organized by the KKP-SIO at Divisoria.

11 February 22 – 24 February

The Kristohanong Katilingban sa Pagpakabana - Social Involvement Office (KKP-SIO), the Central Student The Regional Center of Expertise – Education for Sustainable Development (RCE-ESD) organized Government (CSG), Atenista Ako Movement (AAM) coordinated with the Research and Social Outreach in a 3-day ‘Compass University’ training workshop. Mr Robert Steele of Sustainability Asia / AtKisson organizing the “Xavier Environment Conference (XECON): The Science of Sendong” at the Nursing Amphitheater. Group facilitated the workshop to 30 selected key stakeholders and partners of RCE-ESD in Northern Mindanao. Presenters were Dr Nereus Acosta on Pre-Analysis of Sendong, Mr Andres Ignacio on Formula for Disaster: A Watershed-based Analysis of Factors that Contributed to the Tragedy of Sendong, Sec Elisea Gozun on Looking The training workshop aimed at introducing a set of tools and methods (COMPASS AND ISIS Beyond Climate Change Impacts: Building Resilience and Adaptation, Engr Dexter Lo on Cagayan De Oro ACCELERATOR TOOLKIT), and sharing of ideas on how to transform universities and institutions context-based Why Disasters Happen. of higher learning into role models of sustainability in order to effectively promote education for sustainability and perceive sustainability as an achievable goal. r The activity was also closely coordinated by the CSG with the office of Sec Nereus Acosta for the participation of delegates from the Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats. Other participants came from universities and Photos by Norman Tan schools within CDO and Bukidnon.

XAVIER MAGAZINE JULY - SEPTEMBER 2011 24 Culture and the Arts Culture and the Arts 25

assignment project on the measurement and assessment of respirable dust fraction in the workplace based on the recommended Occupational Exposure Limit (OEL).

At the closing ceremony, OPCW Director-General Ahmet Üzümcü addressed the participants and other attendees which included representatives of diplomatic missions.

The CWC is an international agreement inaugurated in Paris in 1993 and entered into force in 1997. It aims to eliminate an entire category of weapons of mass destruction by prohibiting the development, production, acquisition, stockpiling, retention, transfer or use of chemical weapons by States Parties. States Parties, in turn, must take the steps necessary to enforce that prohibition in respect of persons (natural or legal) within their jurisdiction. The Philippines was one of the original signatories to the Convention in 1993 and likewise enforced the agreement in 1997.

Tarongoy, having completed the Associate Programme, is expected to extend his assistance to the National Authority of the Philippines in its implementing activities as a member of OPCW. r

austino Tarongoy Jr, a faculty Algeria, Argentina, Belarus, Botswana, management, safety management, operations and gained exposure Chem faculty member of the Chemistry Brazil, Cameroon, Cuba, Democratic and leadership and teambuilding for to working environments in the Department, returned to Xavier Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Ghana, three weeks. All participants found chemical industry. In the industrial University after completing the India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jamaica, most significant and helpful the attachments, the different participants becomes OPCW F9-week long 12th Associate Program of Jordan, Kenya, Madagascar, Malaysia, simulation process where they were were assigned to specified industries Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, Paraguay, the Organization for the Prohibition of able to assume different tasks and in the Netherlands, Denmark, Philippines, Samoa, Tunisia, Uganda, Chemical Weapons (OPCW) held in roles pertaining to running a chemical Czech Republic, Germany, India, Associate Ukraine, and Uzbekistan. the Netherlands, United Kingdom and plant, from management positions to Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Poland, elsewhere in Europe and Asia. The programme kicked off with an shift hands operating a pilot chemical Portugal, and Spain. Tarongoy was following induction segment at the OPCW reactor. privileged to be assigned to the The program is a flagship undertaking Headquarters in The Hague, world’s leading chemical company of the OPCW, an independent, During the intermediate segment, Netherlands, where participants located in Germany, together with Europe training autonomous international organization participants were brought back to were oriented to the provisions in the another participant from Ukraine. His with a working relationship with the the OPCW Headquarters for some CWC and the organizational structure industrial engagement was centered United Nations, for its international practical table-top exercises on and functions of the OPCW. Kalimi on chemical safety and security, cooperation work with Member States simulating chemical inspections, Mworia, director of the International where he was exposed to advanced signatory to the Chemical Weapons which is a major function of OPCW, Cooperation and Assistance Division of occupational safety measures and Convention (CWC). The program and visits to specialized institutions OPCW, and Kumaresh Misra, head for monitoring activities implemented by aims to foster a better understanding like the customs authorities in International Cooperation, welcomed the company that has more than 160 of the objectives of the Chemical Netherlands, the Technical University the participants. different chemical plants in just one Weapons Convention and to promote of Delft, and the OPCW analytical site (thus considered as the world’s the peaceful uses of chemistry, with an laboratory in Riswijk. The second phase of the training largest chemical site of 10 km2). emphasis on chemical safety. brought the participants to the One of the most important University of Surrey in Guildford, the Tarongoy and his partner successfully Tarongoy was selected to represent components of the program was United Kingdom of Great Britain and submitted and delivered their research the Philippines and interact with the three-week long industrial Northern Ireland, for intensive skills- presentation on the progress of participants attachments at modern chemical development training on chemical online chemical process monitoring plants, where participants received from developing countries or process engineering, simulated employing Laser and Raman training in various industrial countries in transition, namely: chemical plant production and spectroscopy, and their industrial XAVIER MAGAZINE JULY - SEPTEMBER 2011 26 Feature Alumni 27

through airmail in the days before email and Dave and I celebrated our 25th anniversary Skype. In the days before 24 hours news celebration by Skype at 6am in our Virginia, Fr Cal coverage, he would vividly describe events USA living room! Uncle Cal dialed and we to us half a world away, such as the People had a wonderful long distance ceremony. Poulin SJ: Power Revolution and each new assignment The chapel there was beautiful and of course in Cagayan de Oro, Manila, Malaybalay and there were some words of wisdom for us. Our Africa. friends that came to our home early that July Homage morning could not believe my Uncle did this During the times when Uncle Cal was able to great thing for us from so far away. We will visit the US, he made up for lost time with a never forget our 25th anniversary, and neither to a life of grueling schedule of visits to friends, home will our friends. masses and family dinners. A few years ago, humble while he was visiting during his 50th Jubilee, The family was meeting at Auriesville shrine he packed the chapel at the Jesuit Shrine for a memorial mass for Uncle Neil. Joe and in Auriesville, New York and he was able to Mar, Dave and I were a bit early so we decided service attend the wedding of one of his grand nieces. to stop at a road side snack stand before While these visits were few and far between, going further. After placing our food order r Calvin H Poulin SJ, Fr Cal to he often spoke fondly of his life and friends in at the window we looked for a table. I saw a everyone in the University, was the Philippines. remembered details about every niece and handsome man eating at the table just to my one of the most recognizable nephew, there were always question about right, it’s Uncle Cal! He was early too! It was I was able to visit Cagayan de Oro briefly personalities on campus. He was how each one was doing, where everyone a random meeting, but a pleasant visit before during All Souls Day in 2009. The trip was Fan avid fan of sports and music. He was was living –and there are a lot of us! He was we had too many other competing voices cut even shorter by an untimely typhoon a constant at the University intramurals, interested in all. once we all arrived at Auriesville. What a nice while flying into Manila, but it was one and during Manresa Days, he would surprise! memorable trip. Uncle Cal was a proud tour There are too many stories to recount but be in the rodeo arena watching rodeo. guide of Xavier University, explaining the here are few very memorable ones that show I must admit my birthday was never He was also a usual sight at concerts, improvements to the facilities over the years. Uncle Cal’s love of family: forgotten. Uncle Cal always remembers me especially those held in the Chapel. He Walking through the town was one of the on my birthday. It is July 31, the Feast of Saint was a dear friend to many, much loved most amazing things I ever saw. The children In the old days before computers, we would Ignatius. I will always remember him, his and remembered for the care, generosity started showing up even before we passed go to Grandma Poulin’s to read his letters commitment to God, family, and the people of and humor he exhibited in life. the front gate, flocking to Uncle Cal as we that arrived via airmail from that far away the Philippines. place called the Philippines. Those thin pieces Fr Cal died on Feb 19 of complications walked through town until the street children of paper with special words telling about - Kathy Poulin Scarbalis, Fr Cal’s niece from brain cancer. He was 81. numbered about 30. The joy on their faces far-away places. Gram was so proud of all her and on Cal’s was incredible. Next, he led them our death came as a surprise to me Born in Amsterdam, New York on April clergy children. Uncle Cal in the Philippines, to a restaurant for a special family meal. I and a shocking one, even though 18, 1931, Fr Cal entered the Society of Uncle Neil in Yap, Uncle Don in the diocese of was struck by the respect, care and concern these past days you looked so fragile Jesus on July 30, 1949. He was ordained New York and of course Sister Pat is still at the that these children had for each other and for and weak, but nothing stopped a priest on June 16, 1962. He served convent in Latham, New York. Gram, Pudgie Uncle Cal. Imagine, 30 hungry children and Yyou from ministering to the young people most of his priesthood years in the as some called her, loved the stories of Uncle none of them touched the food put in front of of Xavier University. Since I met you in 1998 Philippines, the last 13 years of which Cal told so well. What a terrific writer! He them until everyone had been served and said and my sharing with you all those years as were spent at Xavier University as the spoke with so much love of the place and the grace. I was impressed and proud of Uncle my spiritual director and friend had made me University chaplain from 1999-2012, people. Once he mastered the computer, the Cal’s work at the University, dedication to the more of a missionary and a spiritual being Religious Studies teacher from 2006- updates came more often and remained very Filipinos and his compassion for the least than ever. Your fatherly advice guided me 2008 and Loyola House treasurer from well informative. privileged children. through the dangers of life and difficulties of 2002-2006. - Joe Waldron, Fr Cal’s nephew Being a military family, we have also lived in being a missionary in a foreign land. You kept In this issue of Xavier Magazine, we’ve many interesting places around the world. always amazing me by your constant desire to collected some of the wonderful stories ou all know him as Father Cal Poulin It was a nice a nice visit when Uncle Cal was continue to serve despite all the warning signs that family and friends have of Fr Cal. but we know him as Uncle Cal. What able to manage a layover in Seoul, South of poor health. a special family member! There are Korea to visit on his way back home after his Your mission experiences in both Kenya and ver more than 50 years, so many stories that flash through Jubilee visit to America. Uncle Cal had never Nigeria in Africa brought many young Africans Uncle Cal stayed in touch Ythe mind even though Uncle Cal did not been to Korea despite all his years in the to the Jesuit family, and your love for the with family and friends in spend a lot of time in the United States in the Philippines. It was an opportunity he couldn’t people was beyond boundaries that you were the United States. While his last 50 years. Every visit was enjoyable, it was resist. He was amazed at the necessary paper Owork in the Philippines and Africa kept crowned a chief in Yoruba land in Nigeria. as if time stood still and we would pick up the work on the tour of the DMZ at the North Thank you for your generosity in the gift of him away during many family events conversation from the previous moment. He Korea border. and celebrations, he stayed in touch

XAVIER MAGAZINE JULY - SEPTEMBER 2011 28 Publications Publications 29

yourself to people, am sure those of have us Fr Cal was a paragon of piousness and Truly a “cura personalis,” Fr Cal has who have come to know you will mourn your humility. He stands out in my heart as an developed and empowered many: Vice President death, mostly the students of XU who have example of a true follower of Christ. Binay addresses known you as their father and friend. • The street kids whom he supported the crowd Just recently, my family and I visited him in regularly gathered for the We all miss you Fr. Cal, and may you rest in the midst of the Sendong tragedy. He was groundbreaking peace with the Lord. Unfortunately I will not already in much pain then, and could only • The scholars whom he kept in contact be there in person for your interment but am move around in a wheelchair. In spite of this, with praying for the repose of your gentle soul, he greeted us with a welcoming smile and • The chapel aides, many of whom go in peace to the Lord Jesus Christ until we twinkling eyes. After our visit his nurse told finished college because of him meet to part no more. us that Fr Cal had refrained from taking baths during the city-wide water shortage because • The chapel choir, whom he is very proud -Fr Martin Okafor-Ilozue, CSSp. Spiritans Cebu he believed that the water he conserved of would be of more use for others, a family t is a great honor to speak of an • The artists, singers, choir members, extraordinary man whose life was spent perhaps who took refuge in this university after the Sendong flood. visual artists whom he encouraged, touching and transforming the lives of so supported and appreciated many, especially the young. His nurses feel blessed to have taken cared I • And perhaps many more I am not aware of Fr Cal. At one time, he asked one of them, I knew Fr Cal for only a few years, but with of that short span of time, I feel I have know him “what will happen to you when I am gone?” for a lifetime. With that query, Fr Cal showed his true caring With his generosity, many were able to nature, even in the midst of his physical pain. actualize their dreams and ambitions that A people person, it did not take much effort have led to so many successes in life. Indeed, Xavier Ecoville breaks ground to like him. His gentle and affable ways, I could not help but be overwhelmed with love, with awe, and with the feeling that I he showed cura personalis – caring for the avier Ecoville, XU’s Besides Habitat for Humanity, groundbreaking, showing Xavier Xavier Ecoville espouses 10 coupled with a cheerful disposition, made relocation and other donors for the permanent Ecoville to be not only a housing core values: Pagtinabangay was in the presence of someone who was entire person, giving individualized attention him a charming and lovable person that he resettlement project houses at Xavier Ecoville program but a community (cooperation), Paghigugma extraordinary. to the need of others, respect for their easily drew people to him. circumstances, and appropriate appreciation with the city government are UnionBank Foundation, building program. XU aims to sa Ginoo (love of God), Xof Cagayan de Oro, broke Brotherhood of Christian develop a thriving and healthy Pagsalig sa Matag usa (trust Knowing Fr Cal has been a for their particular gift. ground on March 3. In the Businessmen and Professionals, community at Xavier Ecoville. In in one another), Pargespeto sa joyous and an enlightening All of us who knew him and whose same event, XU and Habitat for and the Chinese Ladies addition to the residential lots of katungod sa uban ug dignidad experience. Foremost in my lives he has touched are blessed. Humanity Philippines signed a Association of Sacred Heart 50 sqm per lot, Xavier Ecoville will sa tawo (respect for rights and memory is Fr Cal’s enthusiasm There is a multitude of lessons to memorandum of agreement for Parish Cebu. have a chapel and community dignity of persons), Pakigsuod and love for the arts: music, learn from Fr Cal and the way he the construction of permanent center. sa silingan (friendship), Pag visual arts, theatre. lived his life. houses at Xavier Ecoville situated Archbishop Antonio Ledesma amuma sa kinaiyahan (care in the uptown barangay of SJ DD led the rites of blessing “I guess Xavier Ecoville will be for environment), Pagkugi Under his tutelage as chaplain, He was a friend, a mentor, a role Lumbia. at the groundbreaking. Also the standard for everyone to (industry), Pakiglambigit this Immaculate Conception model, a religious, a priest, and a present during the event were follow in resettlement,” said Justo (involvement), Pagkamatinud- of Xavier University was Jesuit to the very end. The donation worth more than Vice President and Chair Ortiz, chairman and CEO of anon (truthfulness), and witness to a variety of artistic P51 million will be used to of the Urban Development UnionBank. “This project is not Pagmugna ug huna-huna ug lihok performances and several We will miss him. I will miss him. help build the 573 row houses Coordinating Council Jejomar only a testimony of the resilience (creativity of ideas and actions). musical concerts. He had We can only honor his memory by which will be constructed on Binay, 2nd Congressional of Filipinos… but a testament of Every weekend, the community unknowingly taught me striving to live as he lived: praising the 5-hectare lot, adjacent to the District Representative Rufus magis.” undertakes values formation that music and dance were and serving God, enthusiastically, temporary bunkhouses where Rodriguez, Abante Mindanao sessions. elevated forms of prayer. and whole-heartedly. more than 250 households, more Partylist Representative Maximo Merely listening and watching than halfway to the target of 500 Rodriguez, City Mayor Vicente the concerts he organized Goodbye, Fr Cal. Remember us households, are presently staying. Emano and City Councilor Nadya or allowed to be held in this to Him whom you have served so Emano-Elipe. Charlito Ayco, CEO and chapel sent my heart soaring well in your lifetime. Managing Director of Habitat Binay assured everyone that and reaching out to God. - Dr Fe R Juarez for Humanity Philippines said “everything is on course” in Music, I believe, was one Executive Vice President that the house building will be the resettlement efforts of the of his divine language; Capitol University r expedited so the beneficiaries can government for those affected by one of his several ways of be settled into their permanent Sendong in the cities of Cagayan homes immediately. Construction de Oro and Iligan, and that “this communicating with his is targeted for completion in six is a government that can be Creator. months but may run for a year at trusted.” Front row: Leonilo Escalada, HFHP Manager for regional programs; Fr Roberto Yap SJ, XU the latest. president; Charlito Ayco, HFHP CEO and managing director; and Engr Elpidio Paras, chair The masterplan of Xavier of the XU Board of Trustees, sign the MOA for the construction of 573 permanent houses at Xavier Ecoville. Witnessing the signing were Rep Rufus Rodriguez, Vice President Ecoville was unveiled during the Jejomar Binay and Arch Antonio Ledesma SJ DD. XAVIER MAGAZINE JULY - SEPTEMBER 2011 30 31 The Xavier Ecoville masterplan About a week earlier, unveiled at the Chairman& CEO of groundbreaking UnionBank Justo Ortiz, ceremony XU President Fr Roberto Yap and Executive Director, CPSR- UnionBank met for a MOA signing in Manila. UnionBank Foundation is giving P10 million for the construction of permanent houses at Xavier Ecoville.

Overjoyed beneficiaries pose in front of the masterplan of Xavier Ecoville, their future neighborhood, unveiled during the groundbreaking ceremony.

Vice President Binay (left) with Fr Yap places Xavier Ecoville documents and other memorabilia inside the time capsule. For updates on the progress of Xavier Ecoville, please visit http://tabangsendong.xu.edu.ph, Facebook Operation: Tabang Sendong, Twitter @TabangSendong. r

Rep Rufus Rodriguez and Vice President Jejomar Binay sign copies of the architectural design of Xavier Ecoville before they are placed inside the time. Vice President Binay shovels cement after the descent of the time capsule

(Photos by Ateneo Camera Club and Carmi Yvette C Salcedo) XAVIER MAGAZINE JULY - SEPTEMBER 2011 32 33

who passes their way who has A very stunning feature to this come from the city. Marilyn is a play is that it showed a few schoolteacher who carries nearly kissing scenes between the all the burdens of the sisters, characters— Monette and as she is the one most eager to Daniel, Finina and Ricardo, get back to the big city. Finina is Erlinda and Teddy. Though not a beautiful yet depressed lady, extremely risqué, they were for she had married early out actually real, sincere, unrehearsed of the initial thought of love, to kisses. When asked about it, the Isidro, the man she thought was actors said that though it was a the smartest one in the town. little awkward, everything was Monette is the youngest, and the done in the name of art, as true play starts with her birthday. She thespians treat their pieces. They has had long-time suitors, Daniel are not themselves onstage, but and Victor. The three sisters have the characters they portray. a youngest brother, Teddy, who they had all bet would be great someday. *** The realities of life slap them in the face, and they end up staying in that town longer than they The company was chosen to had planned, for going back to represent Northern Mindanao Manila had seemed to be a sure and Xavier University to the thing. Marilyn gets promoted as 6th Tanghal University Theater principal; Finina falls in love with Festival in General Santos City a married engineer from Manila and in the 2012 PASINAYA Open The Sons Kawing,” both focusing on the named Ricardo; Monette, who House Festival in the Cultural one thing that makes everyone had been so optimistic about life Center of the Philippines. Out Laughter, screams and kissing “May bakla ba sa pamamahay so quick to listen: secrets. and about working, grows weary of the 34 applicants for Tanghal ko?!” was the resounding first “Dalawa” is about two best of the system in the little town 6, The Xavier Stage’s Isa pa: line bellowed by Lt. Fuego, as his friends who, spending most of they live in; Teddy had married DALAWA took one slot for the scenes: Tatlong Mariya, and The seven gay sons fell in line and their lives together, realize they a tyrannical lady named Erlinda, Mindanao Main entries. For were instructed to recite how they never knew each other at all. who, to the audience’s humor, PASINAYA 2012, the company would eradicate homosexuality “Isa Pang Kawing” is about the talks in a very heavy and comical brought its well applauded from the world with their rigid adherence to tradition and Xavier Stage At Random chosen professions. “Barracks “probinsyana” accent. They have and well loved “New Yorker in culture, yet of abuse of power friends who are there most of the Burgos,” which garnered good aving done five Entitled “At Random,” TXS’s The season started off with its anniversary. It is a drama about ni Tenyente Fuego” is a play and corruption. Both plays got time, Doctor Elpidio, who was reviews and responses from the productions in their first season had it viewers laugh, maiden production, “Ulilang family and patriarchal tyranny, by Edward Perez, and the TXS the audience guessing and one of their mother’s suitors, CCP audience. “New Yorker in first year as a theater cry, whimper, shake and most Tahanan”; followed by Dalawang and the ties that bind loved production of it aimed at raising guessing— and gasping when Daniel and Victor, Monette’s Burgos” has also been favorably company, The Xavier definitely, swoon. Thekilig factor Komedya, a twin-bill of “New ones together. It was staged on awareness on homosexuality the real secrets were revealed. suitors, the old servants Yaya cited in the article for PASINAYA HStage (TXS) has shown that is ever present under the folds Yorker in Tondo” and “Wanted: February 2010. as gender preference and social Soledad, Anselmo and the quiet published in the Philippine Daily more than a group that does of drama and comedy in every A Chaperon”; “Barracks ni lifestyle, so the audience is given The Finale servant girl. Inquirer (March 19, 2012) written plays, it has become a group that production. Tenyente Fuego”; “Isa pa: The Comedies another slant of understanding and appreciating gays and their To close a star-studded season, by Jodee Agoncillo. calls itself a family. Dalawa”, a twin-bill of “Isa Pang Marilyn is unhappy. Monette’s Four months later, the company works and contributions in the TXS staged “Tatlong Mariya,” Kawing” and “Dalawa”; and two suitors fight. Daniel dies. Asked to rate this season, Sir staged “Dalawang Comedya,” a society. The play ends with a rendition of Rody Vera’s their finale production, “Tatlong Monette is in shock. Ricardo Bart gave it a 7. He believes that twin-bill production of Filipino the surly father of seven boys adaptation of Anton Chekhov’s Mariya”. leaves. Finina is distraught. the company can do so much, comedies “New Yorker in becoming a gentle daddy with “The Three Sisters.” The three Erlinda tries to take over the and a 7 is a good place to start. The Maiden Tondo” by Marcelino Agana, seven chikas, and they all lived Marias— Maria Angelina house. Teddy convinces himself Hopefully The Xavier Stage’s next Jr., and “Wanted: A Chaperon” happily ever after, as they say. (Marilyn), Maria Josefina Mr. Hobart Savior, Artistic by Wilfredo Ma. Guerero. It (Finina), and Maria Ramona that his wife is good and faithful. season will wow the audience Director of Xavier Stage and recreated the plays’ dialogues The Revelations (Monette), were born in Manila She is not. Many other issues with more lessons, laughter, and Director for the Xavier Center to fit modern, colloquial Bisaya but were driven away to a distant consume them, and the three love— possibly more onstage for Culture and the Arts (XCCA), that the audience could easily As its first anniversary special, town when their father passed sisters all burst into tears, tears smooches. r chose Wilfredo Ma. Guerrero’s relate to and laugh with, such as TXS staged “Isa Pa: Dalawa,” away. Craving for the good of pain, of anguish, of anger— “Ulilang Tahanan” as its maiden changing “Tondo” to “Burgos,” a twin-bill production of Luis life in Manila, they constantly wishing that they had known; production to commemorate and the ever-uttered “Pag-sure Sicat’s “Dalawa” and Steven relive the moments they had that they had known all along. the playwright’s centennial ba?” Patrick Hernandez’s “Isa Pang there, and pounce at anyone

XAVIER MAGAZINE JULY - SEPTEMBER 2011 34 35

CINEDUKASYON – a film festival Education Science Departments; on the films “Amores Perros” that fused two components: XU Biology Department headed and “La Mala Educacion.” One Xavier a showcase of NCCA and by Prof Gertrude Garcia; Capitol viewer pointed out the dichotomy CINEMALAYA funded Mindanao University NSTP and College of of honor and shame. The film University films and documentary films on Arts and Sciences, headed by “Kama Sutra” conveyed that both science and environment from Dean Buenos Aires Ocampo. “honor and shame are two sides sashays various European Countries. All of the same coin.” the science films were provided CINEMULAT (December 3, 2011 2011 Grand Alumni Homecoming Awaits by the Goethe Institut, and this at the XU Little Theater) Some XU formators and majority new sets film festival was made possible of the Humanities students more alumni/ae “Amores Perros” (Mexico) by by Nonie G Cornilla by the National Commission for watched CINEMULAT. The jam- Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu, of Film Culture and the Arts – National packed audience left the Little “La Mala Educacion” (Spain) he Xavier University- am. Breakfast for the alumni/ placed first, and Cindy Faciol of Community Service. The XU-AAA Committee on Cinema and the Theater with minds that were by Pedro Almodovar and Ateneo de Cagayan ae, especially for the Silver and Tagoloan National High School also bestowed special awards to French Embassy. Cinedukasyon awakened and set free from the Festivals “Kama Sutra” (India) by Mira Alumni Association Golden Jubilarians, immediately placed second. The winners Fr Arturo Victor M Borja SJ for promoted Mindanao Cinema box. They said that they now Nair were the films curated for (XU-AAA) under the followed at the Magis Student received a cash prize, medal, Religious Service, Mr Salvador by Hobart Savior and has extended Science could watch films responsibly, and CINEMULAT- Controversial Film that they will seek the literariness Tleadership of its President, Mr Complex. The alumni/ae trophy and a certificate of P Escaño for XU-AAA Service, and Environmental education part from Cinemagis Festival. One might wonder through documentary films on of each film they choose to watch. Milton U Along, in cooperation had a great time exchanging recognition. and Mrs Nenen M Yrastorza for – the digital short film the purpose for putting up a Biodiversity, Climate Change, with the XU Alumni Affairs Office pleasantries. Loyalty Service. festival in Northern controversial film festival? The Xavier Center for Culture and the To highlight the entire festivities, Energy, History and Culture. under the auspices of its Director, Mindanao, which is Center introduced this to Xavier Arts will sustain these programs Engr Ermin Stan B Pimentel, The final competition of the XU-AAA honored fellow alumni Hon Rufus B Rodriguez, Aon its fourth year now, Xavier University to establish a campaign for it believes in the formative The curated films included celebrated the 2011 Grand Voice of Democracy, an inter who are exemplars in their Representative of the 2nd District Center for Culture and the Arts for responsible film viewing. The capacity of Film/Cinema. The “Teoriya” by Zurich Chan, Alumni/ae Homecoming from high school oratorical contest, respective fields during the of Cagayan de Oro, graced the added two new film Festivals, “Halaw” by Sheron Dayoc, audiences were taught how to film can move the hearts and was held on December 1 at the Awards and Fellowship Night occasion as honored guest. He to wit: CINEDUKASYON – decode the message; interpret influence the minds of the November 26-December 3. The “Limbunan” by Teng XU Audio Visual Room-1. Ten on December 2. Mr Manuel P spoke about the Jesuit Education Film Appreciation Program the various literary elements and audience as it informs. It only theme was “XU-AAA: Engaging Mangansakan, “Crossfire” by finalists from high schools in Engwa and Atty Rodolfo R Waga that molded and contributed and Scientific film Festival and figures employed; understand requires apt understanding the Frontiers.” Arnel Mardoquio, and “Last Misamis Oriental and Cagayan Jr was conferred the Outstanding in making them who they are CINEMULAT- Controversial Film Supper No. 3” by Veronica and relate the allusions presented; that not all films are precise, The first day was devoted to de Oro City vied for the Alumnus Award in Professional today. The evening ended with Festival. These two festivals Velasco. The documentary ascribe appropriately the correct and true. The truth and sports activities: Fun Golf, Championship. Val Amiel Vestil Service; Mr Eric S Canoy received the alumni/ae wearing smiles on started as fringe programs. films included “Forest Part 1,” semiotics and other symbols correctness of a film lies in how Cinedukasyon was featured during “Universe of the Oceans,” “Nine presented in the film including the viewers relate to it, and Badminton and Basketball. The of Liceo de Cagayan University the Outstanding Alumnus their faces. r PANAGHUGPONG 3 – Xavier and a Half: Nuclear Accident nudity. Prof Cathelyn Adajar on how the audience makes it celebration officially kicked off was proclaimed the champion, Award in Public Service; and Arts Festival, and Cinemulat in Japan,” “Can Spider Silk served as our primary discussant meaningful. with a Mass at the Immaculate Kirtham Nouriel Dumpa of Dr Maurice Edcel accepted the (Cinemagis-Controversial Film Hold a Man?” and others. The whose film appreciation and Conception Chapel at 6:30 Xavier University High School, Outstanding Alumnus Award in If all goes well, XCCA will Festival) was featured during the audiences interacted with the education experience and introduce F2ART – French-Filipino 2010 Xavier University Festival Mindanao film makers and film expertise made the festival more Film Festival and Akira Kurosawa Days. Now, both Cinedukasyon discussants. XCCA ensured active credible. Prof Adajar discussed Film Festival next school year! r and CINEMULAT are flagship learning process throughout the biblical allusions as reflected projects of the Xavier Center for festival, which is what makes Culture and the Arts under Artistic Cinedukasyon unique. The Excellence: CINEMA/FILM. festival benefited students from basic education and CINEDUKASYON (November higher institutions in Northern 24-26, 2012, SM CINEMA 2 and Mindanao. XUGS MPR and CU AVRs) The XCCA acknowledges the XCCA partnered with the generosity and support extended Xavier Science Foundation by SM CDO, XU Grade School and the Office of International and Capitol University Basic Cooperation and Networking for XAVIER MAGAZINE JULY - SEPTEMBER 2011 36

XAVIER

FESTIVAL DAYSNovember 30 2011 - December 3, 2011

Creating New Possibilities Engagexavier

Editorial Staff Editor: Vanessa Gorra Layout: Paulo Javier Gener Contributors: : Fr Mars Tan SJ, Libby Josephine Abesamis, Irish Bobadilla, Hobart Savior, published by Christy Bacoto, Casandra Hilary Emata, Communications Office Danikka Rose Fabela Room 120-121, Campion Hall Copyreader: Lennie K Ong Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan Catalina H Gaite 9000 Cagayan de Oro City Head, Communications Office (+6388) 858-3116 loc 3324

Photo credits: Jose Alfonso Sendaydiego, Ma Krisal Poquita, Malcolm Flores, Sam Garcia, Karl Wyne Abregana, Send your stories (750 words or lesser) to [email protected]. Angela Nicole Ocio, Jericho Vamenta, Dr Lourdes Tolod, Irish Bobadilla, Shiella Balbutin, Danikka Rose Fabela, Norman Tan, Kinaadman Research Center, Xavier Center for Culture and the Arts, Loyola House XAVIER MAGAZINE