I BLAME the JESUITS:” Number 2 the PROGRESS of BEA LUMANAS

FABILIOH! A TENEO DE MA NIL A A L UM NI MAGAZ INE Ateneo volume 1 de Manila number 2 ALUMNI december 2015 FABILIOH! MAGAZINE 2 volume 1

• “I BLAME THE JESUITS:” number 2 THE PROGRESS OF BEA LUMANAS

• december 2015 champions in profILE: junior tankers & blue batters Fr. Joaquin Bernas, sJ: A light 50 choosing for 2016: Kapitan, lingkod, katiwala

• 2 defiant (A christmas reflection) Ateneo college students welcome over a thousand underprivileged children from communities all over Metro Manila to the Ateneo campus for the annual Lights for Hope fellowship and celebration. Photos by Gabe Ferrer (above) and Reg Geli (below) / Lights for Hope. Ateneo volume 1 de Manila number 2 ALUMNI december 2015 FABILIOH! MAGAZINE 2 2 A Word from the Editor 3 From the Director, Office of Alumni Relations 4 From the University President

8 “I BLAME THE JESUITS:” The Progress of Bea Lumanas billie andrada

26 FR. JOAQUIN BERNAS, SJ: A Light Fifty patrick vance s. nogoy, sj

34 CHAMPIONS IN PROFILE: 36 Waterboys • The Ateneo Junior Tankers 42 Stepping up to the Plate • The Ateneo Blue Batters louella e. fortez

50 CHOOSING FOR 2016: Kapitan, Lingkod, Katiwala antonio g. m. la viña

60 DEFIANT (A Christmas Reflection) francis d. alvarez, sj

66 Photo Essay: LAUDATO SI’ Photos by victor r. baltazar, sj

88 In Memoriam

Fabilioh! is published semiannually, in print and online, by the Ateneo de Manila University Office of Alumni Relations. Office of Alumni Relations Room 104, Fr. Godofredo Alingal, sj Hall (beside Cervini field) Ateneo de Manila University Loyola Heights Campus Katipunan Avenue, Loyola Heights, Quezon City 1108, Philippines phone +63 (2) 426-6082 (direct line) +63 (2) 426 6001 locals 4088 and 4086 fax +63 (2) 426 6080 email [email protected] A WORD FROM THE EDITOR

Based on the response to our first issue, my own response was, “indeed there are so many stories still to tell.” Many of you wrote back of stories you’d like to hear; and others of stories you’d like to share. We look forward to featuring some of your suggestions in the issues to come. After all, we plan to last long as your reading companion. In fact, to make things even easier, this second issue now also has a print run so whether you are a digital native, or a traditional magazine in hand kind of reader, Fabilioh! is yours. This is a great issue, full of great ideas and I encourage you to read each and every article (how could we not feature our phenom- enal sports teams The Ateneo Junior Tankers and the Ateneo Blue Batters?) but I would like to focus on three extra special features. One, we asked Dean Tony La Viña of the Ateneo School of Govern- ment to write about how best to discern for the coming elections in 2016. We hope that this in-depth article will help you sift chaff from grain as you decide on whom to elect. We all pray for grace and wisdom for this momentous event in our history but we must also put in the work of studying and testing all the candidates. We thank Dean La Viña for finding the time to write for Fabilioh! in spite of his busy schedule. Two, there is a photo essay featuring the birding pictures of Fr. Vic Baltazar, SJ. We share with you the words from the encyclical editorial team of our Holy Father Pope Francis Laudato Si’ side by side with these publisher pictures of birds that can be found just in our campus. What better norberto maria l. bautista, sj (gs ’74, hs ’78, ab Philo ’82, way to illustrate the Pope’s admonition to “care for our home” ma Pastoral Ministry ’99 than by showing you the fantastic creatures in our own backyard? editor-in-chief rica bolipata-santos, phd Fabilioh! thanks Fr. Vic, as well, for generously sharing his wonderful (ab Hum ’91, ma Lit (Eng) ’99) pictures. art director/designer And lastly, our alumni-in-the-periphery for this issue is Bea Lu- ali d. figueroa (gs ’90, hs ’94, bs me ’98) manas, bs/m Applied Mathematics, Major in Mathematical Finance 2009. In spite of Bea’s wealth of experience as a developmental contributors worker, she offers no easy statements or slogans on how to truly francis d. alvarez, sj make the world a better place. It is perhaps as she says best: “Even billie andrada if you realize that [you cannot do everything], even when you know vic r. baltazar, sj that you are somehow powerless, it doesn’t mean that what you do louella e. fortez doesn’t have impact—it is up to you to realize what you do best. I antonio g. m. la viña like to think I am maximizing my skills to actually help. It probably patrick nogoy, sj won’t amount to much, and by much, I mean, I don’t know which

FABILIOH! acknowledgments standards—the standards of the world?—but I know I’m doing my paul daza best in my little way.” joji lapuz These are words to live by as we fully enter into the presence harvey mateo, sj of Advent. Let us, at Fabilioh!, be the first to wish you the sweetest efren debulgado fruits of the season. Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year. rita de villa Best, university communications and public relations office (ucpro) ateneo de manila university press Rica Bolipata-Santos, phd ateneo de manila university archives Editor-in-Chief center for ignatian spirituality 2 lights for hope FROM THE DIRECTOR, OFFICE OF ALUMNI RELATIONS Simplicity, hiddenness, and silence always accompany My dear fellow Ateneo alumni, the Christmas Peace! memory. I wish to thank you for your overwhelming support for the maiden issue of Fabilioh!, our Ateneo alumni magazine. We aim to provide We remember www.ateneo.edu print copies of the first two issues by December 5, 2015, the day of our Grand Alumni Homecoming. the poor For the second and coming issues, we will solicit sponsorship packages and advertisements, not only for the printing and publica- in the tion of the Fabilioh! but for the projects and programs of the Univer- sity such as our scholarship programs, the construction of the Arete, peripheries— the Senior High School building, the International Residence and others. the simple, We again celebrate the Nativity of our Lord Jesus Christ with much joy and hope. As we celebrate Christmas this year, we remem- the hidden, ber the original and holy images of the manger, the accompaniment of the poor shepherds in His Birth that holy night, the presence of and the silent. animals in an unknown, dark stable in Nazareth, and the simple and quiet Holy Family hidden from the eyes of the world yet fully known As we remember and seen by God—the Holy Family that wants nothing else but to do the Will of Him who so loved us that He gave us His only Son. them, we serve Simplicity, hiddenness, and silence always accompany Christmas memory. We remember the poor in the peripheries—the simple, the them in our little hidden, and the silent. As we remember them, we serve them in our little ways and see the Infant Jesus in their faces. It is through our ways and see the engagements with them in-the-flesh that we are changed ourselves unto Christ, the Immanuel, God-with-us. Infant Jesus in Let this be the Grace we ask this Christmas: that as we engage ourselves with one another, let-us-be-with-us. Let us journey together their faces. and accompany each other towards the communion that Christmas brings. Let our personal and meaningful encounters bear fruit in our de manila university ateneo zeal to serve and love others especially the poor and the sick, the neglected and the rejected, with much mercy and compassion.

A Blessed Christmas to all.

Norberto Maria L. Bautista, sj Director, Office of Alumni Relations

3 Photo by Iya Regalario, courtesy of the University Communications and Public Relations Office (UCPRO). AMAREFROM THE UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT ET

Amanda Chan SERVIRE

Detail from Carlos Sainz de Tejada (1897-1958), The Life of St. Ignatius Loyola. Plate 9. After their solemn vows at the Basilica of St-Paul- Outside-The-Walls in Rome, the companions set off to help souls with unbounded joy, from the Jesuit periodical, El Mensajero de Corazon de Jesus (Bilbao, 1958). Courtesy of 4 the Jesuit Institute, London. Love and service. This was the theme of the Ignatian Festival this year and it can be the running theme of our lives as Ateneans, Amanda Chan wherever we are, whatever profession and vocation we are called to live.

In our recent University convocation, I said that to love and to serve are two infinitives, two verbs, two actions that can very well stand separately and alone. There can be love, sentimental and tender, but without service. And there can be service as well, efficient and competent, but without love. Service without heart, wanting in affection. Love without deeds, bereft of execution. The legacy of Loyola, the spirit of the man, the very spirit that animates this place and the people of and beyond this University, was to bring these two movements together, love and service, love with service, service with love.

Let us reflect on this interweave of love and service Reiner Locsin in our lives. Let us examine the “why” of our service and the “how” of our love. Let us follow where the love above, top row. Ignatian Festival logo and service have brought us, where and how we have and 22 September 2015 Academic Convocation / ucpro. moved others through our love and service. Let us consider how love and service are indeed interwoven in our The other images in this article are from Lights for Hope, an annual lives. fellowship and celebration mounted If you look more closely, you will see that love and by Loyola Schools students for over a thousand underprivileged children service runs through the pieces in this magazine. The from all over Metro Manila. This reflections of our dean of the School of Government, season’s Lights for Hope will be held on February 06, 2016. 5 Reiner Locsin Let this interweave of love and service be enough for us. May it be strong enough to bind us to our true selves and to those who must matter to us and to our God. Volume 1, Number 2, December 2015 Number 2, 1, Volume

FABILIOH!

6 Carlos Sainz de Tejada Antonio La Viña, may aid us in discerning who our In next leaders should be. Let us choose leaders omnibus who profess their love of amare et country by demonstrating their service. Let us elect servire leaders who serve our people, especially those Domino. at the peripheries, with true love. May we always, There is a photo essay of Pope Francis’s Laudato Si’ that expands our love and service to include all of God’s in all things, creation. There is also a feature on Law School Dean Emeritus and constitutional lawyer Fr. Joaquin Bernas, love and serve www.ateneo.edu sj, who has spent a lifetime of loving and serving others the Lord. through his teaching and legal work on the Philippine constitution. There are alums like Bea Lumanas who May we always, have heeded the call to love and serve directly those at the margins of society. There is a feature on our athletes in everything, who have been training hard to represent us in the field love and serve of battle. All this work, all this service would be nothing without love. Fr. Francis Alvarez, sj shares a reflection on His people. Christmas, the meaning of which is often vulnerable to the risk of being buried in busyness. Let Advent reserve some time and space for us to savor God’s radical ex- pression of love and service. Let this interweave of love and service be enough for us. May it be strong enough to bind us to our true selves and to those who must matter to us and to our God. In omnibus amare et servire Domino. May we always, in all things, love and serve the Lord. May we always, in everything, love and serve His people.

Jose Ramon T. Villarin, sj President, Ateneo de Manila University ateneo de manila university ateneo

7 “I“I BLAME BLAME THE THE JESUITS:” JESUITS:”

8 by Billie Andrada Photos and photo captions courtesy of Bea Lumanas. Sensitive political situations in some of the areas mentioned in this article necessitated the removal of the names of the organizations Bea worked with, along with the specific communities, names of people, and the TheThe years she worked with them. PROPROGGRRESSESS OFOF BEABEA LUMANASLUMANAS 9 ThisThis isn’tisn’t thethe lifelife sheshe expected,expected, butbut itit isis thethe lifelife sheshe chose.chose. II interviewedinterviewed BeaBea LumanasLumanas viavia SkypeSkype fromfrom herher organization’sorganization’s compoundcompound inin Afghanistan.Afghanistan. SheShe waswas inin thethe garden,garden, thethe skysky brightbright andand warmwarm behindbehind her.her. ThroughoutThroughout thethe interview,interview, herher eyeseyes drifteddrifted offoff thethe screenscreen toto looklook toto thethe ground,ground, oror toto aa far-offfar-off distance.distance.

She didn’t maintain eye contact—one of the dis- advantages of digital communication—but her answers came with the slowness of honesty and the clarity of self-awareness. She looked younger than I expected, dressed down for her off-day. When I asked her why she ended up in NGO work, she laughed and said, “I blame the Jesuits!” This struck me as undeniably true for a lot of other Ateneans I know. I doubt she’s the first Atenean to say that; she probably won’t be the last.

The Formative Years

Bea graduated in 2009 with a degree in Applied Math- ematics, Major in Mathematical Finance; she now works for a non-governmental organization (NGO) in Afghani- stan. In high school, she wanted to be a scientist. Her parents wanted her to be safe. When she was accepted to the prestigious Philippine Science High School in Western Visayas, her parents, instead, opted that she stay in Bohol and finish her schooling there. Although Bea understood that decision, in retrospect, she re- previous spread. At a shelter for abused and abandoned girls in the membered crying for days on end after the final phone Kibera slum, I taught these kids the call. The third of four children, with parents who both larong Pinoy luksong tinik. above, from top. worked for the government in the regional trial court, 1. Tuktuks in Afghanistan. resources were stretched thinly enough that Ateneo 2. Afghan men doing stone carving. 10 3. My graduation. de Manila was never an option that crossed her mind. InIn Ateneo,Ateneo, sheshe foundfound herher homehome inin herher studentstudent organization—theorganization—the AteneoAteneo StudentStudent CatholicCatholic ActionAction (AtSCA),(AtSCA), whosewhose sloganslogan “Para“Para sasa Diyos!Diyos! ParaPara sasa Bayan!”Bayan!” appealedappealed toto herher forfor nono reasonreason sheshe couldcould name.name.

She expected to go to the University of the Philip- pines, if things turned out in her favor; but her parents said, “Ayaw pag-UP kay basin mahimo ra kang aktibista. (Huwag ka mag-UP, magiging aktibista ka.)” Fortunately, the Ateneo de Manila University offered her a scholarship and priority placement in the residence halls. In Ateneo, she found her home in her student organization—the Ateneo Student Catholic Action (atSCA), whose slogan “Para sa Diyos! Para sa Bayan!” appealed to her for no reason she could name. Amongst the members, she was a fish out of water. Unlike the others, she never had any experience in immersions or outreach programs; participating in community activities with the urban poor was an experience she did not tell her parents at the time. atSCA was foundational in her decisions to pursue a career in the NGO sector although she did not know it at the time. Her organization’s activities took up most of her time in college; her blockmates joked that she majored in atSCA instead. When she was finally persuaded by a Jesuit brother to join the Jesuit Volun- above, from top. teer Program (JVP), after deferring the MA option for her 1. The Park 7 urban poor community. course, she “convinced herself that I was [still] going to That is me speaking to the community, inviting them to come end up in the corporate sector.” listen to our Christmas carols. Traditionally, every December, atsca sings Christmas carols for all of our apostolate areas. 2. One of our tutees. This kid’s name is Jik-Jik. 11 InIn JVP, JVP, Bea Bea was was assigned assigned to to work work at at Borongan, Borongan, a a fifth fifth incomeincome class class municipality municipality on on the the coast coast of of Samar, Samar, one one ofof the the poorest poorest provinces provinces in in the the Philippines. Philippines. Its Its location location facingfacing the the Pacific Pacific mademade itit particularlyparticularly susceptiblesusceptible toto damagesdamages and and calamities calamities from from typhoons. typhoons.

On Time

Bea was assigned to work at Borongan, Eastern Samar, a fifth income class municipality on the coast of Samar. Its location facing the Pacific made it particularly suscep- tible to damages and calamities from typhoons. Eastern Samar is considered one of the poorest provinces in the Philippines. Unlike her atSCA areas, Bea faced the reali- ties of widespread rural poverty and the systemic problems that make it possible. She recalled her younger self with resigned amusement,

Sa jvp, we knew that it was a one year commitment, I guess I was burned-out—not that I was cramming to above, from top. do so much in ten months—but you know, you’re fresh 1. Jipapad, a remote town in Eastern Samar . The boat trip from the out of college, you’re naive and you think you can do so nearest town (Oras) took four hours. much in ten months. So you burn yourself out. I guess I From Borongan, where I was based, the journey to get to Oras would remember towards the end, during my evaluation, one take at least eight hours, even if it of the priests told me that I was too idealistic, was only 150 km away. 2. “Samar Island Partnership for she said with a self-deprecating laugh, and a trace of Peace and Development (SIPPAD) Assembly,” an event I organized. indignation. She disagreed with this assessment, but Its goal was to strengthen conceded that “it was probably true.” cooperation among members of church, academe, civil society, and It was an idealism that had its roots in college—it is, government; and provide a venue after all, easier to feel empowered to act when required for all sectors to engage in peaceful dialogue to address issues such as to measure gains and goals every year. The reality of poor infrastructure, communist rebel how much time it would take to truly develop sustain- movements, and environmental 12 degradation, all over Samar. able solutions to poverty was a bitter pill to swallow. Suddenly having to face institutional problems of corruption, bureaucracy, and politics led to her being disillusioned. Her admiration for the praxis-oriented teaching of the Jesuits turned sour when the values she admired—simplicity, charity, and vow of poverty— became harder to find in those in power, and practice in the face of systemic poverty. She found herself second- guessing her career path, asking herself

Is this what I get for serving? If I worked, I would have earned myself money, I wouldn’t be in this position, and what for? Nagsayang lang ba ako ng oras? I think I learned it the hard way, that there are systemic problems, and being there for ten months, you can’t do much—it’s not supposed to be a way to discourage you from doing your best, but to counter that idealism, and [let you] realize that [while] you have an awareness of these problems, you’re probably too ingrained in the

system. You shouldn’t blame yourself.” above, from top. 1. I was a substitute English teacher It is less a conciliatory pat on the back, her saying this for a freshman class at the Minor while in Afghanistan, following years of service in other Seminary in Borongan, Eastern Samar. developing countries. It is more of a call to act; if she 2. Children in Jipapad, Eastern was going to do this, she must settle in for a long-term. Samar, where basic services are limited, electricity is rationed, and After finding out that a master’s degree was an unspo- poverty incidence is high. There, we ken requirement to be taken seriously in our local NGO opened a “Botika sa Parokya” outlet and monitored the operations of “Bigasan sa Parokya.” 13 SheShe went went on on toto work work in in Palestine.Palestine. Every Every day,day, she she travelled travelled intointo Ramallah, Ramallah, thethe capital capital of of Palestine,Palestine, past past thethe separation separation wallwall between between JerusalemJerusalem and and PalestinePalestine (in (in the the WestWest Bank). Bank).

sector, Bea decided to regroup and worked briefly in the corporate sector to raise funds for her MA.

No one seemed to think one year of volunteer experience was enough… when they looked at my college degree, it didn’t make sense.

A few years after leaving the corporate world to pursue her Masters in International Political Economy and Development (IPED) at Fordham University (New York), under scholarship, she went on to work in Palestine, a war-torn country in Western Asia. During one of her field visits, she travelled in a private vehicle into Ramal- lah, the capital of Palestine, past the separation wall between Jerusalem and Palestine (in the West Bank). Here, the traffic slowed down as vehicles were subjected to inspection; passengers on some public utility vehicles (PUVs) had to disembark for inspection, too. Palestinians, before entering Jerusalem, had to go through the security checkpoint. This was one of the security protocols in place against terrorist threats in the area. Bea, seeing

above, from top. that as an outsider, and working with people who had 1. The iconic “separation wall” that to live through that experience every day, understood separates the West Bank from Jerusalem. something fundamental to the job: 2. The “Food Voucher for Work” project for unemployed Palestinian men in Seeing that and people living like that… to be honest, She’eb Salameh (West Bank). These men were doing road rehabilitation/ there doesn’t seem to be a solution to the conflict now. 14 land reclamation. [But] I was just struck… I know people are very tense about it, because I work with Palestinians— it’s not like they’re giving up, like it’s a hopeless situation—but life goes on.

Here, she paused to look at me directly,

I’m not trying to be profound here—I’m speaking about an experience where I’m an outsider, and I look at how people’s lives—their freedoms—have been curtailed, but life goes on for them. It’s hard— but life goes on. They celebrate weddings, funerals, their day-to-day activities. Once in a whole, may made-demolish na bahay because of this whole issue of resettlement [pertaining to territorial disputes in the West Bank], but life goes on, people face their own problems, they find a way to live a normal life even if it’s not normal. I feel like that’s a huge leap to do every day. above, from top. Unlike an undergraduate immersion experience, 1. “Ma’an,” a Ramallah-based advocacy however, Bea did not look at this experience as a and human rights ngo organized an exposure trip to Area C in Jordan turning-point for more personal gratitude; it was an Valley, land that Israel prevents eye-opener on scale. The political problems of our Palestinians from using productively. The Bedouin communities there own country are familiar and intelligible to someone suffer from lack of water and other who grew up in the Philippines; the rest of the world basic utilities and services, and overcrowding in schools. 2. Ongoing road rehabilitation/land reclamation in the West Bank. 15 Nairobi,Nairobi, Kenya Kenya has has some some of of the the largest largest slums slums in in the the world,world, some some of of which which are are home home to to up up to to a a million million people. people.

is a far bigger mystery. She had to accept the reality that Following she cannot do everything, that her Masters the things that I do, they’re affecting a few lives here and program, she there but won’t sustainably address the bigger picture, went on to work which is something that requires a political solution. in Nairobi, Kenya. She looked straight into the screen when summarizing It was her first her learning from this; it never seemed to occur to her, in her stories, to stop doing. There’s something innately long-term hopeful about that. engagement Even if you realize that [you cannot do everything], in another even when you know that you are somehow powerless, country, outside it doesn’t mean that what you do doesn’t have impact—it of immersion is up to you to realize what you do best. I like to think I am maximizing my skills to actually help. It probably programs in won’t amount to much, and by much, I mean, I don’t

FABILIOH! line with her know which standards—the standards of the world?—but Masters. I know I’m doing my best in my little way. And Distances

Following her Masters program, she went on to work in Nairobi, Kenya. It was her first long-term engagement in another country, outside of immersion programs in line with her Masters. In this sector, Bea claims, you must learn to deal with isolation—it comes with being above. One of the largest slums in 16 Africa, where I worked for a year. relocated to places with different cultures, languages, and politics. This makes it easier to burn out, which is a term Bea hesitated in using, with the fear that she may be exaggerating her claims. Each immersion and area is practice in finding balance, to stop the scales of engagement from tipping into exhaustion. Nairobi has some of the largest slums in the world, some of which are home to anywhere from 500,000 to a million people. It was an image enough to overwhelm anyone with the best of intentions, if she didn’t have prior experience, if she wasn’t determined to build her career in this field. First day was bound to be an over- load of data.

I was getting oriented, like anybody who was uprooted and just started work—you’re overwhelmed, there was a lot to do, a lot of people to meet, names to memorize. On my second day, there was a commotion.

At the time, she could not speak Swahili and was not yet familiar with the people in the community. Her office was located in the bowels of the slums, a fifteen-minute walk down the valley from the drop-off point. In the months following, the people in the community recognized her as affiliated with the organization; this allowed her to travel inside safely. The commotion on her above. One of the beneficiaries of our second day was from a mob that had formed around group savings and loans program in the slums is a vegetable seller. 17 18 “It’s“It’s lives lives of of people people that that you’reyou’re dealing dealing with. with. While While II have have to to say, say, they they become become statisticsstatistics in in my my reports, reports, but but whenwhen you’re you’re facing facing them, them, youyou have have to to treat treat them them like like humanhuman beings. beings. I I don’t don’t think think that’sthat’s being being idealistic. idealistic. It’s It’s justjust a a matter matter of of respect.” respect.”

I conducted a meeting with slum-based journalists to discuss the next issue of our Kibera-based newspaper, circulated for free to the residents of Nairobi’s slums. Ignored by mainstream media in Kenya, slum residents make their voices heard through this newspaper. 19 their office. A little girl, no older than four years old, was raped by an adult male neighbor. The organization, through its network of case workers, found the perpe- trator. Unfortunately, the community also found out and wanted to inflict their own brand of mob justice on the man—they had to trap the man in their office for his own safety. The warm rapport of the community with the organization soured that afternoon. Even worse,

To get the police to come [and arrest the man], we actually had to pay the police. The organization shouldn’t have to do that. Shows you how corrupt the police system was in Kenya.

Eventually, they were able to turn over the man to the police. It was a crash course she’ll never forget.

This was a lot to take in one day: rape, mob justice, corrupt police system. I remember going home that day

above, from top. exhausted… It’s harder when you see the victim. 1. The toughest women I know— gender-based violence (gbv) case In the following months, she had to speak and interact workers. (l–r) Sherifa, Zahara, and with other victims of gender-based violence, too. Triza. These women often face the risk of being physically hurt by gbv In the year she worked in Kenya, she found herself perpetrators they pursue, because in the same room as these individuals, helpless with the police do not have the capacity to investigate nor the willingness to the knowledge that there was nothing she could say arrest sex offenders. to make the situation better. There was only the work 20 2. A photo from the slums of Kibera. she was doing as liaison with their main office. Sexual violence against women happened often in that com- “To get the police munity and was notoriously underreported, as is the to come [and tendency in other parts of the world, too. These reali- arrest the man], ties and her own limitations dogged her everyday; she had to live with the helplessness caused by the cultural we actually had and language divide, by the sheer scale of what had to to pay the police. be achieved to turn the tide. She had, by then, already The organization learned the lesson of time. shouldn’t have Eventually, you have to find a way to distance yourself, to do that. so it doesn’t affect you enough that you become unproductive. Shows you how

The difficulty is in balancing that distance with compas- corrupt the sion for the community; the distance allowed her to be police system productive, but it was compassion that never let her was in Kenya.” forget the individuals she was dealing with. It is easy ateneo de manila university ateneo to lose sight of one or the other once in the midst of the daily grind. She recalled another story which high- lighted the difficult decisions that development workers had to make over and again in their line of work. She was assigned to work as a pre-production assistant for a documentary to raise awareness against gender-based above. Mathare is the second violence. largest slum in Nairobi. At that time, I was monitoring the progress of the The thing with building a documentary, however, is construction of a community center that it creates a lasting image of the victims—which can for the non-profit organization I was working for. 21 be exploitative when approached in the wrong manner. And in a place where child sexual molestation was ram- pant, and underreported, it was difficult to weigh the need for awareness against the desire to protect the victims. Even in her disappointment with these difficulties, however, she wondered if she missed something—if her knowledge was insufficient, if her horse was too high, if it was the nature of the job that necessitated spinning these victims’ stories. One of the hardest parts of building that documentary, for her, was having to listen to the

above. Per our security protocol, staff victims recount a traumatic experience, knowing that doing field visits are not supposed to this person must have had to do it several times already take photos of beneficiaries, especially of women, as most rural societies in before it reached her for transcription. Afghanistan are conservative. Taking photos could also potentially harm the I don’t know, I’m not experienced in the whole business organization, as photos make it easier for community members to contact of producing films. I guess that is part of research... I the Taliban or criminal groups. Since found out about this during my first month—I wasn’t I could not take photos of Afghan FABILIOH! women, I had a photo of me taken at burned out at the time—I guess it just progressed, the Blue Mosque, a shrine in the heart witnessing different things. of Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan. Out of respect, I wear a chador, a black While she believed that the organization and the people cloak-like garment worn on top of the hijab. Women wear this when they are were doing their best, also with the best of intentions, out in the streets or in public areas. there is something in the day-to-day grind of activi- This is also part of security protocol—a “blending in” strategy. In the past, there ties that could make it easy to lose track of ideals in were cases of foreign women who were exchange for practical decision-making: how to raise killed in Afghanistan because they were not “covered enough” and stood funds for the organization, for the victims, how to get out in public. ngo workers may also be the issues into the wider public sphere. This is the kind 22 targeted by the Taliban. of problem, she realized, that a lot of NGOs face one way or another. The costs could be justified. It takes a lot Again, the word “idealistic” was mentioned, and this of bravery and time I recognized the reason for the discomfort with the self-awareness word—it was the realization that the description applied to her, yes, but, in a lot of ways, Bea had already out- to continuously grown the word’s connotations. At the center of all the throw one’s self word’s associations is something true that she has come out there into to recognize and value. the big world— Again, it’s lives of people that you’re dealing with. While bigger than the I have to say, they become statistics in my reports, but when you’re facing them, you have to treat them like obvious middle- human beings. I don’t think that’s being idealistic. It’s just class paths a matter of respect. afforded to The Long Road Home Ateneo college

It takes a lot of bravery and self-awareness to continu- graduates, de manila university ateneo ously throw one’s self out there into the big world— bigger even than bigger than the obvious middle-class paths afforded to Ateneo college graduates, bigger even than the history the history and and problems of our country—all for the chance to learn, problems of our to step out of comfort zones and encounter the other. country. When you’re just sitting in the office—you do a lot of abstraction from reality. But when you take the time to get to know the people that you actually serve—it above. A downtown scene from Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan. 23 Ateneo’s call to changes everything. It places a human face to this whole become “Men business of ngo work. She believes that the goal is always to step out of your- and Women for self. Others” does As Bea’s stories prove, should you choose to follow not always her path, you will probably run headlong into your own ignorance and fears. You will have to survive yourself. work on the A great deal of our conversation ended in question students. But marks; she was never inclined to speak of her insights when it works as wisdom. I think she believed, at the end of it, that she knew less of the world and its people now than ever. its magic— The only things clarified were the things she’s willing to through student stand-up and fight for. I suspect she was excited to keep organizations, figuring the rest out. Of course I had to ask her if she ever thought of core curriculum coming home and applying her skills in the NGO sector

FABILIOH! and major here.

subjects, I get that question a lot—this whole business of nation- teachers, and building, it doesn’t seem like I’m participating for immersion our beloved country. The way I see it for now: I’m young, I’m still building my skills. I’m not an expert in experiences— anything. Right now, I’m very interested in collecting it does so to experiences. I’m trying to refine what it is I want to great results. research in for my phd studies. 24 It’s a very straight-forward and honest answer. Still, she laughed at the brief lull in the conversation and amend- ed it, saying “I know it’s a yes or no question, but I feel like I have to justify myself. Ang defensive ko!” Ateneo’s call to become “Men and Women for Others” does not always work on the students; we cannot discount environment, personality, and other factors. But when it works its magic—through student organizations, core curriculum and major subjects, teachers, and immersion experiences—it does so to great results. Some people find themselves changed irrevers- ibly; all the obvious paths open to them become un- wanted. The offbeat siren call of Ateneo’s teachings will continue to attract students to a life of service. Whether or not their teachings will stand against reality, or break into something new and stronger depends on the person; Bea knew that holding herself accountable for her decisions was the only way to keep moving forward. page 24, top. “Botika sa Parokya” at the Still, the siren call beckons these old students home. parish in Taft, Eastern Samar. This was (Or, at least, leaves an echo impossible to shake off in a project of the Diocese of Borongan Social Action Center, where I was their minds.) This is not the worst thing to be blamed assigned as a volunteer, to provide for. affordable medicine to the rural poor. above. 1. Cervini Hall grounds at the Ateneo campus. “Kids Day” for our tutees billie andrada ab ( Literature (English) 2012) is currently the from all our apostolate areas in Editorial Assistant of the Ateneo de Manila University Press. Quezon City. 2. Tutoring kids at the Park 7 urban poor community. 25 Fr. Joaquin Bernas, sj

- by Patrick Nogoy, sj Portrait photo by Harvey Mateo, sj. Vintage photos courtesy of Carina C. Samaniego aof the Ateneo deLight Manila University Archives. 50

26 i m ag i n ed us s it ti n g o n th e b en c h , u n d er th e How would a b i g tr ee i n th e va s t g r een j e s u it r e s i d en c e Fr. Bernas cap ilawn, looking down Marikina Valley towards the mountains of Antipolo and Montalban, with coffee in hand. a reflection We would begin to talk about the small things—his love for scotch, favorite law subject, first assignment, and first of fifty years Jesuit idol. Then, we would move to more sentimental memories of Padre Faura Law School where he spent as a priest? years of studying and teaching, Xavier House in Sta. Ana where nine good Jesuit years were devoted as Pro- Maybe with vincial, and his participation in historical constitutional

conventions. How would a Fr. Bernas cap a reflection some tears www.ateneo.edu of fifty years as a priest? Maybe with some tears falling down as testament to challenging but fruitful service to falling down the Church. But, he would rather have this sentimental memorial of fifty years be defined his way. as testament I saw an old bald fellow in white shirt and gray pants and no footwear as I entered the room on the far end of to challenging the 4th floor of the Jesuit Residence. He put the book that he was reading aside and let out a relaxing smile. but fruitful Seated in a comfortable chair, he gamely asked me to pull whatever chair I can sit on. Behind him were books service to on two towering shelves piled on top of the other. There was a small pile of gifts, some unopened, mixed togeth- the Church. er with other hard-bound books on the side table near the door. His computer table was filled with papers, But, he clips, DVDs and some medicines. No bench. No wide lawn. Not even coffee to offer. Only his jolly and aging would rather self, beaming with a youthful smile despite the wear and tear of age. have this Perhaps, this is his way of deconstructing some images of him, images that intimidate others because sentimental of what he has accomplished as a priest, lawyer, con- ateneo de manila university ateneo stitutionalist, professor, and provincial. In his open and memorial of relaxed demeanor inside his topsy turvy room, I found a regular old Jesuit with simple beginnings. “I saw happy fifty years be Jesuits,” he recalled, “and I owe it to myself to do something worthwhile in my life. Seeing them happy made defined his me think that living their kind of life is worthwhile. The young scholastics who later became priests like Sagra- way. do and Camins and priests like Lorenzo Guerrero, they were happy.” 27 28 The attraction grew into a solid commitment for the young high school kid from Ateneo de Naga. At the end “I saw happy of high school, Fr. Joaquin Bernas accepted the invita- tion for him to enter Sacred Heart Novitiate in Novali- Jesuits, and ches. “I didn’t experience any resistance from my parents. Maybe because they had plenty children to spare,” I owe it to chuckles this second of twelve brood. “We were 20 novices who entered and I didn’t experience any shocks myself to do or major worries in my formation years.” There was nothing dramatic or unusual for Fr. B (as something he is fondly called), atypical of Jesuit formation, where the scholastic is exposed to plenty of challenging situ- worthwhile ations from within (personal issues, community living, chastity and celibacy) and without (social and cultural

in my life. www.ateneo.edu situations, trials of studies, and exposure to different personalities). After two years of learning the classics Seeing them and Latin in Juniorate and three years in philosophi- cal studies, he was sent to the Ateneo de Manila High happy made me School to teach English and Latin. “I am a demanding teacher. One time, I went to see Johnny Gordon, the think that living moderator of the honors class that time and told him that some students are in danger of flunking in my their kind of life class.” Johnny Gordon could only assure him it was fine, since Fr. B will not get to teach the next year. is worthwhile. Fr. Bernas’ teaching stint was cut short by his law studies. In 1954, he began taking 6-9pm classes in the The young old Ateneo Graduate School compound in Padre Faura. “I went by commuting to Padre Faura. I was a regular scholastics law student, although I wore a habit. I had good class- mates though. Occasionally, they teased when girls who later passed by,” he laughs. There was no favorite law course since he knew that became priests he had to study for all subjects to pass the bar. “There’s nothing unusual or extraordinary in my study of law. I like Sagrado just knew that I had to pass the bar.” Though there was ateneo de manila university ateneo interest in constitutional law, a course where he would and Camins later leave his mark both in the classroom and for the country, and him slowly becoming the first breed of and priests priest-lawyers, Fr. B took his law studies as regular tasks to be accomplished with great generosity. After passing like Lorenzo the bar, he flew to Woodstock for his theological studies and was ordained in Fordham, New York. He would stay Guerrero, they in New York for about 2-3 years to finish his masters and doctorate in law at New York University. “There was no were happy.” 29 30 fanfare. I studied law, moved to theology, got ordained, finished my doctorate and came back to teach,” he There are would emphasize. As a law professor, he admits being a demand- plenty of ways ing one. “Very. But I am friendly with my students,” he would again chuckle. “I like teaching the bright ones to measure and challenging them. When you challenge them, they wake up!” Though he would write articles and publish and define in journals, Fr. B took joy in teaching. “Teaching for me is entertainment and relaxation.” Yet he would draw the fifty years. line by bringing out the dedication to studies from his students. “I flunk people. Serious studies over demon- Some use strations,” was his reply to the brewing social unrest and Martial law days during the 70’s.

the length of www.ateneo.edu His teaching stint would again take a back seat when he became Jesuit Provincial for nine years. “I didn’t do years. Others much teaching when I was Provincial,” Fr. B says. “Yet, what is consoling about the office is the opportunity the number of to direct and help people. As Provincial, your primary task is to take care of people.” Taking care of people accomplish- demands listening and as Fr. B recounted, he never experienced any major difficulty with a Jesuit because he ments or titles listened to his consultors and other advisers in formulat- ing guidelines, rules, and responses. “Jesuits are reliable acquired. and if I have a problem with any of them, I talk to them. They are easy to talk to.” It appeared easier said than Yet for Jesuits done, I felt. “Well, if they didn’t follow, I’d simply tell them to get out,” he retorted jokingly. like Fr. Bernas, The absence of significant difficulty or issue in Fr. B’s hefty mission assignments made me wonder about his 50 is a simple source of strength and stability. Or perhaps I was only eager to find out the drama beneath the icon of consti- number, tutional law in the country. “Examen is important. That prayer which forces you to review your life every day. another day in Fifty years can be challenging work but God will not ateneo de manila university ateneo give you a challenge you cannot handle alone or with the office. No the help of others,” he would say, breaking my silence. “Do what you can.” He would explain that a life of prayer fanfare, not helped him ease his journey especially in the last fifty years as a priest. “As a priest, you have to lead by ex- much drama. ample. In making homilies, you have to know your audi- ence, do a little research, and pray over the readings. As a leader, you have to guide spiritually and intellectually. So Examen is very important,” he repeated. 31 32 There are plenty of ways to measure and define fifty years. Some use the length of years. Others the number “At the end of accomplishments or titles acquired. Yet for Jesuits like Fr. Bernas, 50 is a simple number, another day in of the day, the office. No fanfare, not much drama, nothing more unusual than the daily plough in the wide fields of the we must be Kingdom of God. “At the end of the day, we must be faithful to things we are asked to do,” Fr. B remarked. faithful to Having accepted being in the sunset phase of life, Fr. B puts prime importance on prayer especially in help- things we are ing one accept one’s own limitations, in making decisions, and in being able to rejoice for the gifts of age, asked to do. like fortitude in facing problems. “I pray to a God who is a Giver of gifts yet challenges or demands me to use

I pray to a God www.ateneo.edu them well. And I would say, at least professionally, I am a good lawyer, and a priest who gives good homilies,” he who is a Giver again laughed. He slowly got up and walked to his own comfort of gifts yet room. I could hear the rain dissipate in a few drops slowly patting on the windows in this lazy Friday after- challenges or noon. I took another good sweep of the room—unar- ranged books on the shelves, pile of gift bags, com- demands me to puter table clutter, and old dusty chairs. It is not a room one would expect from a respected constitutionalist, a use them well. demanding but beloved legendary law professor, and a faithful priest. But it is the one that simply fits Fr. B, a no- And I would nonsense yet jolly servant of the Lord. What is golden about fifty? Milestones in life are moments of perfection, say, at least but these cannot be manufactured or bought. These treasured moments are born out of a history of honest professionally, and faithful commitment to the Lord of Life. It is the same Lord, the Giver of gifts, awaiting Fr. B in his sunset. I am a good No drama. No fanfare. Just as Fr. B would have it. lawyer, and patrick vance s. nogoy, sj (hs 1998, bs Communications ateneo de manila university ateneo Technology Management 2002, ma Philosophy 2010) a priest who worked in bank and an insurance company before entering the Society of Jesus in 2005. Ordained deacon gives good on September 5, 2015, he is currently finishing his ma in Theological Studies in Loyola School of Theology. homilies,”

33 CHAMPIONS IN PROFILE

by Louella Fortez Junior Tankers photos by Nathania Rockwood, Paul Daza, and Bernie De Guzman.

Blue Batters game photos by Joji Lapuz, courtesy of the Ateneo Sports Shooters (www.fabilioh.com). 34 Nathania Rockwood Portrait photos by Louella E. Fortez. Joji Lapuz

The mind and the heart of a champion may be best left to science but why and how a team secures straight victories has at its core magis, and this is embodied in each member of the Ateneo’s Junior Tankers and Blue Batters. 35 WATERBOYS water is still, a blue Thpath the Ateneoe Junior Tankers will be traversing from one end to another shortly. Before this happens

FABILIOH! are things to do first: division cords to lay down, straight, ringed demarcations in the pool for each member of the team then quick warm-up exercises.

The Ateneo High School The rest of the team trickle in amidst all these. They still uaap Season 78 Swim Team with have their backpacks on as they shuffle to the Loyola ahs Principal Dr. Carmela Oracion. 36 Photo courtesy of Paul Daza. Schools pool. There seems to be a contest as to whose uniform has the most wrinkles as every boy’s shirt is The boys who more rumpled than the one before him. The heavy drag had arrived early of their soles across the floor picks up as soon as they make way in the realize practice will begin soon. circle for the rest The bags crash to the floor almost simultaneously hurrying toward then shoes are kicked off, some skidding far away. them, continuing to Some fold their uniforms neatly on top of backpacks warm up without while few make an attempt to do the same but end up missing a beat. leaving them in a bundle. This is no laughing The boys who had arrived early make way in the matter, it seems, circle for the rest hurrying toward them, continuing to as they move warm up without missing a beat. This is no laughing in near-perfect matter, it seems, as they move in near-perfect synchron- synchronicity icity through the steps, counting out loud as they do, through the steps, all of them unsmiling. When it’s over they walk to the counting out loud pool’s edge, falling in a formation that looks to be a line, as they do, all of maybe not—they are elbowing and laughing with each them unsmiling. 37 other, pretending to push a teammate into the pool. Gone are the earlier grim faces. Then the coach’s whistle blow splits the air. One by one, they dive in, splashing water on the ground. They may not have gone in the water at the same time but once they’re in, their heads and arms break out of the surface in smooth, perfect harmony. Playtime is over. Practice has begun. Spectators think that Bernie De Guzman swimmers work against the water. Dive and you push your head through the surface for air, push your body forward with arms and legs. The truth is, in order to swim, you work with water, rather than against it. The Junior Tankers do more than swim, though this is all they want to keep doing. Bagging ten consecutive championships in the the UAAP is proof that the team has figured out that being in the water takes more than the ability to swim. It is working constantly on the skill and understanding it. Today is actually an easy day, according to Program Coordinator Archie Lim. The Blue Tankers will just be focusing on the butterfly stroke. They move like fish in the water. Arms and legs knife fast and sure through the blue expanse as they approach the end of the pool before they swim back toward the other. “They are disci- plined kids,” Lim continues. “Masipag. They respect the program and the coaches. They know how to sacrifice.” FABILIOH! The UAAP is not the only competition the team partic- ipates in; there are many others throughout the year. In order to maintain and improve their form, the Blue Tank- ers have to balance proper rest and diet with academics and the requisite practice six to ten times a week. “We always have to step up,” adds Lim. “(That’s why) we try to train them in all techniques.” There’s also the challenge of being repeating champions to deal with: “People always look at you, (thinking) how can they 38 beat Ateneo?” To think that the subject of their victo- The championships ries doesn’t even come up at any point during practice. garnered as a “The focus is on strengthening support within the team, result of working pushing each other to do more and to keep improving harder and more every year.” are treated more The championships garnered as a result of work- as an inevitability. ing harder and more are treated more as an inevitabil- Winning ity. Winning has become a habit for the Blue Tankers, has become it seems. Magis at work, perhaps? For something to a habit for become a habit, it requires consistency and discipline. the Blue And above all, one must love what he does. Tankers, it Team captain Miggy Arellano, MVP in the UAAP seems. Magis Season 77’s Boys’ Division, remembers why he chose at work, swimming as a sport. “(It was) the feel of the water. perhaps? (Then) my times got faster, driving me to improve and For something excel.” to become a His enthusiasm is infectious, which is not unusual for

habit, it requires de manila university ateneo a boy who will be graduating from high school in a few consistency and months. But confidence and a firm handshake are quali- discipline. And ties not easily found among them. When he speaks, above all, one must he is quite quick yet clear, even purposeful, something love what he does. more associated with adults.

Rookie Rafael Barretto, who also joined the inter- above. All three teams in the view, is soft-spoken. He gives himself a few seconds fast (Fast Ateneo Swim Team) Eagles, including the Ateneo High School before answering, turning the question in his head as Swim Team, and the men’s and if analyzing it per curve, per stroke, wondering how to women’s teams of the Loyola Schools. Photo by Nathania Rockwood. 39 best approach it. Asked how he feels about being a part of a winning team, he tries to hide an embarrassed grin but tells the truth: “Nervous.” And who wouldn’t be? What more when it’s gunning for an eleven-peat? The idea makes Arellano feel hon- oured, yet he also readily admits feeling the pressure weighing on his shoulders. Nevertheless, he is thank- ful for the strong support within the team, and it goes beyond practice. “We’re there for each other, even in academics,” he adds. Ateneo High School’s emphasis on prioritizing studies over sports is sometimes difficult to balance. For this, members of the team are advised to skip practices every now and then, being as they are scheduled twice a day, one before class and another afterward. This is done in order to avoid instances when students are too tired for class. It is also a reminder that in spite of being FABILIOH! swim kings, they are only boys and are still growing, thus the need for as much rest as they can get. Despite concessions such as these, Arellano is well aware of what’s expected of the team. “We give our 101% . We give it our all.” “(But it’s) not just (about) winning,” Barretto says. “Gusto kong talunin ang sarili ko. (To) just get better.”

above. Ateneo High School Arellano agrees with a quick nod. This is the consensus Swim Team rookie Raf Barretto. 40 Photo by Nathania Rockwood. in the team: to continue improving to the best they can be. Having made a habit out of winning has made the Blue Tankers stronger and more aware that their success is not all theirs. Before every competition, they huddle together in prayer. “We pray for God’s grace. We offer it to God— everything’s for God,” according to Arellano. “With God, we feel more confident,” adds Barretto. This year will be Miggy Arellano’s last with the It seems that Blue Tankers. His advice to newcomers such as Rafael for the ten-peat sounds more like that of an older brother’s than a team champions Junior captain’s: “Don’t get nervous! And always be there for Tankers, success each other.” for them goes It seems that for the ten-peat champions Junior beyond winning. Tankers, success for them goes beyond winning. Im- Improving proving themselves takes precedence. The result is a themselves takes habit of excellence. precedence. The Not to mention that all they want is to keep swim- result is a habit of ming. excellence.

After the interview for this article, the Ateneo de Manila Not to High School Swim Team won its 11th consecutive title mention that at the uaap Season 78 Swimming Championship held all they want from October 22 to 25, 2015 at the Rizal Memorial is to keep Sports Complex. The “11-peat” is unprecedented in uaap

swimming. de manila university ateneo swimming. In addition, Rafael Barreto of 9e was awarded Rookie of the Year, while Aldo Tong was awarded Coach of the Year in the junior boys’ division. Notable too is the outstanding performance of backstroker Aki Cariño (11e), who set four new uaap boys records (three of them for relay events) in addition to winning two silver medals for individual events. —Paul Daza / www.ateneo.edu.

above. Ateneo High School Swim Team captain Miggy Arellano. Photo by Nathania Rockwood. 41 Joji Lapuz

the Blue Batters how theyA feels aboutk the upcoming UAAP games and there is only one reply: We have a lot to prove. FABILIOH! Team Captain Ryon Tionloc, readily admits to the pressure weighing on their shoulders. Despite their three, back-to-back championships since the UAAP Season 75, the team is harder at work than ever. “Key members graduated this year,” he says,“ (and) people think they carried the team.” In spite of this, the Blue Batters’ primary objective is to get better, he continues. “Everyday we push each 42 other. We’re very determined.” STEPPING up to the PLATE Tionloc is one the four team captains of the twenty- six-strong Blue Batters. A team this size may make con- nections tricky yet in their case, the camaraderie is solid. Many of them had played with or against each other before coming together in the Blue Batters. Each, according to Tionloc, has a specific role and skill to hone for strengthening the team. He himself started out as a catcher before being encouraged to focus on being the first baseman and now, as captain. He views the responsibility of the position as akin to being a supportive, older brother. The team looks to him should problems arise, and he never forgets to remind them that they’re all good players—so long as they continue working hard and getting better. When the interview happens, rains drive the Blue Batters to hold their practice in the Blue Eagle Gym. It begins with a warm-up, young men shouting encour- Ryan Tionloc Photo by Louella Fortez. 43 Joji Lapuz

Most teams agement at each other as they run from one end of describe the basketball court to the other dribbling a ball. Roars their bond greet the player who nails a shot. Laughter the answer as that of a when he misses the net. Yes, due to uncooperative family. The weather, the baseball team plays basketball to warm up. Blue Batters While this goes on, other members of the team stay imbibe this in a makeshift area within the gym for their teeing. The more. Every time space is small, it’s quite hot despite the rain battering another member outside. It’s maximized by nets hung from the ceil- takes his turn ing that function as space dividers and cushion from a teeing, he can count speeding ball that might hit an unfortunate fellow who on at least three just happens to be walking by. brothers calling out Teeing is one player tossing a ball towards another ways to improve player, the batter, who then hits it as strongly and as his form, hold a bat surely as he can. Tionloc says they each do this between properly, etc. They twenty to thirty times per practice. It may look like a mere exercise in making sure to hit the ball—there is

FABILIOH! are all taken, no second-guessing, that, of course—but in order for the bat to actually come no doubting. The in contact with the ball, a good, nay, perfect swing, trust is strong requires mind and body at work. There are hand, arm within the team. and leg positions to take note of, stances. Learning to focus is another part of the practice—somewhat of a feat since the suggestions called out to the batter are inter- spersed with jokes. “Pi-picturan ka lang, nahiya ka na!” comes the good-natured taunt that rings amidst the clang of metal and the swoosh of a ball. 44 But another reason why they were comfortable and friendly with each other could be that plenty of them got into baseball because of their brothers, even grandfathers, who either knew each other from playing baseball or loved the game.

“We (do) try to lighten up,” says Tionloc. “We’re one big happy family.” Most teams describe their bond as that of a family. The Blue Batters imbibe this more. Every time another member takes his turn teeing, he can count on at least www.ateneo.edu three brothers calling out ways to improve his form, hold a bat properly, etc. They are all taken, no second- guessing, no doubting. The trust is strong within the team. But another reason why they were comfortable and friendly with each other could be that plenty of them got into baseball because of their brothers, even grandfathers, who either knew each other from playing baseball or loved the game. Pitcher Gabby Tan says that his brother introduced him to it. “It’s my first sport,” he says, “(and I stayed with it) because of the brotherhood.” Now on his second year in the team, Tan admits to GABBY TAN still feeling overwhelmed. He recalls his first year: “It was surprising and it’s my first tournament on that grand a scale. The training is different—it’s more serious.” Anoth- er challenge is balancing academic requirements with the demands of the team. “It’s difficult to make people see we’re students first. (And then) you have practice and school projects.” There’s definitely more pressure this year, what with a title to defend yet again. Tan echoes Tionloc’s empha- ateneo de manila university ateneo sis on pushing the self to become better. “You (should) never stop improving. There’s always something to prove. The mentality is there’s (always) someone better than you, so you have to push yourself.” Catcher and co-captain Dio Remollo agrees that it’s hard work that brings desired results. Straightforward, he jokes about his failure as a football player when he was younger because he “wasn’t scoring goals.” He also began playing baseball at this time. His decision to DIO remollo Photos by Louella Fortez. 45 Joji Lapuz

commit to the latter came down to realizing that hitting The important a baseball was “a better feeling.” thing the While his two teammates have confessed to the team must pressure of scoring another UAAP championsip, Remollo shakes his head vigorously. “(I’m) not pressured. (It’s not remember a matter of) having to win but wanting. You over think is support when you have to win. When you want to win, you have and mutual self-motivation. We’ve done it before and don’t have anything to prove. We have a winning mentality.” Still, respect, he admits, “It sucks to lose!” stresses The boldness of his declaration comes from his ad- Volume 1, Number 2, December 2015 Number 2, 1, Volume Remollo. miration of this year’s line-up. He knows all of them from way before and has nothing but the highest respect. “I tell “The young ones,” he calls them. He is clearly excited. these “Our rookies are the hardest workers. Eager. Amazing guys— talent. They’re good. (They have to be) to play baseball the way they need to.”

if Bullish as Remollo is for the upcoming UAAP season, something he admits that this year is “going to be tough.” He is happens also wary of the talk that goes on among other baseball teams during games, what with all eyes on the three- in a game, peat champions Blue Batters. He shrugs. “People say just pick something about the team to beat. We just take it. We each don’t have to say anything.” The important thing the team must remember is other up. support and mutual respect, stresses Remollo. “I tell FABILIOH! Admit these guys—if something happens in a game, just pick your each other up. Admit your mistakes. It makes you better next time.” mistakes. The efforts of team captains Tionloc and Remollo It makes in encouraging the Blue Batters to work harder to get you better better have made an admirer out of newcomer Gio Salvatierra. “They are really doing their job. (They) are next harnessing the skills of the rookies. The team practices so hard.” 46 time.” Joji Lapuz 47 48 Joji Lapuz “It’s different from high school. The training is harder, stricter. In high school, it’s fine if you don’t train. At the collegiate level, if you don’t practice, you can’t play.”

It is his first year in the Blue Batters so yes, he feels the pressure regarding the title they have to defend. “It’s different from high school. The training is harder, stricter. In high school, it’s fine if you don’t train. At the collegiate level, if you don’t practice, you can’t play.” It’s www.ateneo.edu a different ball game, he is slowly learning, and once again, he’s back to square one. Salvatierra is far from floundering, however: “I can still manage my school work even when we have training.” He is also determined to contribute to a winning team—making him one of the rookies Remollo is excited about. Salvatierra is definitely ready for what the sport would be demanding from him eventually, young and new as he is. It comes down to magis, he says. “It helps with our training. We have to do things excellently, (so) we do our best in every training.” “(Magis) is when the odds are against you,” adds Re- gIO salvatierra Photo by Louella Fortez. mollo. “Just tell yourself it’s not yet done. Do your best. No regrets. No excuses. When you make excuses, you won’t work hard.” “(So) we enjoy everything we do—even every obsta- cle,” says Tionloc. “If we win, it’s going to be the sweetest. Hopefully we take it all the way.” Then he looks back at the team as they continue practicing. “We’re all good players. We’re good baseball players. Anyone can start. We each have our own ateneo de manila university ateneo specific set of skills.” Looks like the Blue Batters sure have all bases covered.

louella e. fortez (bfa Creative Writing 2004) finished her Masters degree, also in Creative Writing, from the University of the Philippines in 2014. Louella teaches at both the English and Filipino departments of the Loyola School of Humanities. 49 CHOOSING FOR KAPITAN,2016: LINGKOD, by Tony La Viña DEAN 50 KATIWALA ATENEO SCHOOL OF GOVERNMENT we had a more mature democracy, choosing our Icountry’sf leaders would not be difficult. One would simply look at the political parties vying

for position and vote according to one’s www.ateneo.edu party affiliation or inclination. Usually, it would be for a political party whose ideology a voter shared. Of course, the leadership of that party would matter but more important would be its positions on issues and its platform of government.

Unfortunately, we do not have strong ela, ACT, and Kabataan), are real political political parties in the Philippines. As parties, with members sharing a politi- we have seen in the phenomena of the cal ideology and with organized sectors Nacionalista Party having three Vice-Pres- forming their backbone. The Kapatiran idential candidates and the proliferation Party likewise started as a promising of “guest” and “adopted” candidates in ideologically based political party. But the senatorial and other races, our politi- electorally, for nation wide elections, cians easily swing from one party or an- candidates from these three parties are ateneo de manila university ateneo other, with no other criterion but political not able to compete with other more convenience. Indeed, this election is the established candidates. Indeed, up to strangest ever with the phenomenon of now, Akbayan, Makabayan, and Kapati- “candidate sharing” becoming prevalent ran have not been successful in having with all the political parties resorting to it. members elected into the senate. It must be mentioned that two party Without political parties, we have no list organizations, Akbayan and Makabay- choice but to look at every candidate— an (which is a coalition of several party their backgrounds, record, values, and list organizations—Bayan Muna, Gabri- positions—and compare them to each 51 To the problems facing the Philippines, we have many proposed solutions. In most cases, we even have ample resources to spend on these solutions. There has been one critical factor missing in the equation, though. That missing factor is leadership.

other based on a criterion that we could been one critical factor missing in the use as the lens for our decision. equation, though, which is why many of This is what I seek to articulate in this these ideas—from the lofty goals of good article—a criteria for choosing whom to governance and economic develop- vote for in 2015. I will illustrate the criteria ment, to the mundane tasks of getting by giving examples from the presidential roads paved and trash collected—have race. I will consider how these applies to failed to take off. That missing factor is the declared candidates Jejomar Binay, leadership. Mar Roxas, Grace Poe, Miriam Defensor Leadership is not just about the Santiago, and Rody Duterte. giving of good orders—though this will It should be noted also that the cri- be expected of those placed in positions

Volume 1, Number 2, December 2015 Number 2, 1, Volume teria I propose is applicable to all candi- of authority. In looking at the history dates for all executive positions and to of how the Jesuits spread across the some extent also apply to candidates for world, leaving lasting impacts on the legislative positions. societies they visited, former JP Morgan executive (and former Jesuit seminarian) Sources of criteria Chris Lowney argues that practically

The criteria I propose come from four every Jesuit exercised leadership, or sources—the Ignatian tradition of leader- at least was encouraged to do so. He ship as articulated by Chris Lowney, the points out that the first Jesuits, adopted vision of a leader proposed by Fr. Hora- the leadership style of St. Ignatius of cio De La Costa, SJ, and the concept of Loyola, a formula that now “has since servant-leader by Robert Greenleaf. I will been tested across generations, across then propose a combination of these continents, and across cultures,” serving qualities of a good leader through the explorers, mapmakers, linguists, criterion that the Movement for Good

FABILIOH! astronomers, theologians, scientists, Government (MGG) suggests for our elec- musicians, social activists, writers of toral choices. children’s stories, lobbyists, preachers— Heroic leadership even school teachers and cannon as Criteria manufacturers.

To the problems facing the Philippines, How do you become a leader who we have many proposed solutions. In makes the kind of impact on the world most cases, we even have ample resourc- that Ignatius Loyola did? Lowney sug- es to spend on these solutions. There has gests how: 52 • You appreciate your own dignity and The first Jesuits, according to Lowney, rich potential. were heroic leaders:

• You recognize weaknesses and attach- bold and daring, ready at a moment’s ments that block that potential. notice to sail forth to exotic locations, • You articulate the values you stand for. for God and for the salvation of human • You establish personal goals. souls anywhere, anytime. • You form a point of view on the He described them as world—where you stand, what you cunning, exploiting their knowledge want, and how you will relate to of astronomy to gain the favor of the others. ultra-closed Chinese imperial court, or • You see the wisdom and value in the building Europe’s first universal and examen and commit to it—the daily, free secondary school system, with the self-reflective habit of refocusing on gratitude of European townships, and www.ateneo.edu priorities and extracting lessons from as a breeding ground for potential Jesuit successes and failures. recruits.

According to the former Jesuit, whatever And finally: their chosen or assigned mission, those living the Jesuit leadership way cham- These heroic leaders, last but not least, pion for the following values: knew themselves: what they were capable of, what their weaknesses were, • Understanding their strengths, weak- their place in the world, and their nesses, values, and worldview deeply-felt mission to make that world a • Confidently innovating and adapting better place. to embrace a changing world De La Costa’s • Engaging others with a positive, qualities of leadership loving attitude More than half a century ago, in 1953, Fr. • Energizing themselves and others by De La Costa spoke before the graduating heroic ambitions class of Ateneo de Davao and identified Genuine leadership, from an Ignatian the characteristics of an Ateneo or Jesuit point of view, focuses on the possible, college graduate. I think these apply to the future. It integrates four fundamental leaders as well. pillars: Self-awareness, Ingenuity, Love, Leaders should be persons of prac-

and Heroism. According to Lowney: tical excellence, what Fr. De La Costa de manila university ateneo described in his 1953 speech as “persons Love-driven leaders seek out and honor of judgment.” Practical excellence means the potential in self and others. Heroic to have given you set of competencies leaders seek to shape the future rather that will enable leaders to do their jobs than passively endure whatever unfolds. effectively. And ingenuity-driven leaders uncover Leaders should be persons of prin- ways to turn human potential into ciples. They must be guided by moral achievement and a vision of the future values, to stick to them, and navigate into a reality. 53 It is not enough to do the ethical thing; it is just as important to do it the right way.

Leaders should be persons of the people, and especially for the poorest in our society. A public servant is a person-for-others.

properly the dilemmas of politics. In my in 1970. Greenleaf defined the servant- own career as a public servant, the most leader as difficult challenge has been—how can I servant first… It begins with the natural do the right thing the right way? It is not feeling that one wants to serve, to serve enough to do the ethical thing; it is just first. Then conscious choice brings one as important to do it the right way so that to aspire to lead. That person is sharply you are able to implement decisions, different from one who is leader first, defend your actions, and actually solve perhaps because of the need to assuage problems. an unusual power drive or to acquire Leaders should be persons of the material possessions…The leader-first people, and especially for the poorest in

Volume 1, Number 2, December 2015 Number 2, 1, Volume and the servant-first are two extreme our society. A public servant is a person- types. Between them there are shadings for-others. That is why Fr. De La Costa and blends that are part of the infinite writes how we need not just national variety of human nature. leaders but good local leaders as well: Greenleaf further differentiated between We need national leaders; the best we the two types of leaders: A servant-

can get. But make no mistake: it is local leader always shares power and puts the and regional community leaders that needs of others first while the leader-first our people need most of all. Not leaders is about the accumulation and exercise who reside in some distant capital, out of power by one at the “top of the pyra- of touch with them, out of their reach, mid.” According to Greenleaf: but leaders who are right here with them, who know them and whom they The difference manifests itself in the know; who understand their problems, care taken by the servant-first to make their hopes, their dreams, and who can, sure that other people’s highest priority

FABILIOH! because of the education they have needs are being served. The best test, received, give substance to these hopes and difficult to administer, is: Do those and dreams. served grow as persons? Do they, while being served, become healthier, wiser, Servant Leadership freer, more autonomous, more likely would be good themselves to become servants? And, Servant Leadership was coined by what is the effect on the least privileged Robert K. Greenleaf in “The Servant as in society? Will they benefit or at least Leader,” an essay that was first published not be further deprived? 54 In another essay, “The Institution as Ser- kapitan: vant,” Greenleaf articulated what is now The effective leader called the “credo” of servant leadership. We must elect visionary, competent and This is how he articulated it: effective leaders in 2016. We cannot This is my thesis: caring for persons, afford leaders that do not know where the more able and the less able serving to bring us, or those who will bring us to each other, is the rock upon which a the wrong place, or those who will not good society is built. Whereas, until bring us anywhere as they have no ability recently, caring was largely person to do that at all. to person, now most of it is mediated The description the MGG uses for the through institutions—often large, effective is that of a Kapitan ng Bayan. As complex, powerful, impersonal; not former Fidel V. Ramos frequently says, we always competent; sometimes corrupt. must see ourselves as Team Philippines

If a better society is to be built, one that and the president is the captain who will www.ateneo.edu is more just and more loving, one that steer us to the right direction. provides greater creative opportunity An effective leader has a clear and for its people, then the most open course comprehensive platform of government; is to raise both the capacity to serve and, consistent and clear positions on and the very performance as servant key issues, works hard and smart, and of existing major institutions by new demonstrates political will, risk-taking regenerative forces operating within and the courage to implement reforms. them. Concretely, to be visionary means a solid understanding of the challenges Movement for before us: poverty, lack of jobs, war in Good Governance: Mindanao and internal conflict in other The Leader We Need areas, inequity in taxation that unduly For the 2010 elections, the Movement for burdens the poor and the middle class, Good Governance, a coalition of indi- and climate change and disaster, are viduals and organizations led by Winnie among the most important. Monsod and Nene Guevarra, developed More specifically to the President, I a criterion for making our electoral would like a leader who would prioritize choices. I think that MGG’s three quali- programs for the poor, continue edu- ties of a leader combine best the leader cational reforms that would position that Lowney, De La Costa, and Greenleaf young people to better jobs, support

describe. These pillars are: tax reforms that would reduce burdens de manila university ateneo for the poor and the middle class while 1. the effective leader making sure the rich pay their just share, (Kapitan ng Bayan); complete the peace process with all 2. the empowering leader Moro revolutionary organizations (pass a (Lingkod ng Bayan); and good Bangsamoro Basic Law that is both 3. the ethical leader constitutionally compliant and meets the (Katiwala ng Bayan). aspirations of our Moro brothers and sisters) and with the communist insurgency, have a coherent and smart strategy for 55 In addition to their record of service, it is important to look at how the candidates are handling themselves in the campaign. The behavior of the candidates is a good way of assessing their effectiveness as a leader.

our OFWs, make sure that mitigation and gration chief. And of course, she also left adaptation programs on climate change a mark in the judiciary. While I have a lot are adopted and implemented, and of respect for Senator Miriam Defensor push for the creation of an independent Santiago, it is important to have up to disaster agency. date information about her health before In a more personal way, as a resident voting for or against her. Among others, of Metro Manila and as an academic and we must know how she will manage the lawyer, I will vote only for a leader who physical demands of the presidential I am convinced can solve the problem office and whether she will last the full of lack of mobility and connectivity that term of six years. For the record, I do plagues our capital metropolis. This is want her to be in the pink of health and

Volume 1, Number 2, December 2015 Number 2, 1, Volume not for selfish reasons but they are major to survive many more years beyond the causes why we are and will be uncom- term of the next president. petitive. Thus, it is fair to ask whether Mar It is more challenging with respect to Roxas has some responsibility for the Grace Poe because of her shorter record dismal state of transportation and com- of public service. We have of course her munications in the Philippines given his MTCRB and senate stints to look at to see

being the department secretary of these her style of leadership. portfolios in the early years of the Aquino In addition to their record of service, administration. But Roxas’ record must it is important to look at how the can- be comprehensively assessed—from his didates are handling themselves in the experience as a legislator (what bills did campaign. Presidential campaigns are he author) to his cabinet stints as trade grueling and challenging, beset by crisis. and industry secretary and interior and The behavior of the candidates—their local government secretary. fortitude, determination, discipline, abil- It is also appropriate to look at the ity to communicate, etc. is a good way of FABILIOH! local government records of Binay and assessing their effectiveness as a leader. Duterte. How is Makati now after de- LINGKOD: cades under the control of the Binays? The empowering leader How is Davao faring under Duterte’s leadership which has also been for quite We must elect leaders who have proven a long time. records of service to people, who show For Santiago, there is her record in in their records and campaigns empathy the Senate and before that in the cabinet to the concerns of the ordinary people, as agrarian reform secretary and immi- and who can recruit and bring into the 56 government the best and the brightest. much improved and refreshed with The empowering leader is participative people who are capable and committed and inspiring. He or she is a good lis- to their mission. tener and understands the concerns and Finally, I would like a leader that is share the values of the ordinary Filipino. able to unify the people, one who has a www.ateneo.edu Such a leader knows and appreciates compelling vision, which inspires hope Philippine culture and thus is able to and enables us to work with each other communicate well to all Filipinos. for a common purpose. The MGG description for the em- How do I apply this criterion to those powering leader is that he is a Lingkod who have declared their candidacies ng Bayan. Will we be the bosses of this for president? Again, the record of ser- leader? Will she or he listen to us? Will vice—this time of empathy and ability to he or she bring out the best in us and by inspire—is important. But how they are example unify the country? campaigning now provides critical data In terms of platform, the empower- to assess whether the candidate is an ing leader will promote social justice and empowering leader. Is the campaign prioritize the basic needs of the people of that candidate too negative, conde- (food, health, education, shelter) and will scending, disrespectful, and angry? Or go out of his or her way to protect the does that candidate make us feel good interests of marginalized sectors of our about ourselves and about our country? society. (workers, farmer, women, indig- Is the vision he or she proposing inclu- enous people, people with disabilities). sive, unifying and engaging? Specifically, I would like a leader that will Applied to the candidates, this crite- fully implement agrarian reform, prohibit rion could be used to evaluate Poe. On contractualization of labor, stop the kill- one hand, she is able to communicate ings of Lumad and respect indigenous very well with voters and especially with ateneo de manila university ateneo peoples’ rights. millennials. She certainly has charisma, An empowering leader is one who both because of her parental legacy as builds institutions. Unfortunately, many well as in her own right. of our governance institutions are in Binay also blends in well with politi- bad shape. Some good happens when cal leaders and voters. He never tires of the right leaders are at their helm but shaking hands, embracing babies, and that is never assured. I would like to see meeting ordinary people. But his style a leader that consciously reforms our institutions and leaves power with them above. Portraits of 2016 Philippine Presidential candidates by Marlon Miguel Maico / www.fb.com/artofmarlonmaico. 57 Stopping the leakage; putting an end to drift; finding a direction; steering: We need leadership for these. Not just by the next president or a few elite politicians but by many others across the many islands of our country.

illustrates what we call traditional politics, her first acts. I expect the candidate I will a patron-client approach to politics. support to commit to appoint competent Roxas admits that he can be per- and trustworthy Supreme Court Justices ceived to be snobbish, elitist. Voters will (11 of them will be appointed by the next have to judge whether he has empathy president) and an Ombudsman with and gets what they need and how they similar qualities of competence, integrity see things. and courage as Ombudsman Conchita Duterte and Santiago have strong Carpio Morales (whose term will expire appeal to their followers. They are cer- in 2018). tainly charismatic and can move many MGG describes this leader as the to action. At the same time, both these Katiwala ng Bayan. Can we entrust this

Volume 1, Number 2, December 2015 Number 2, 1, Volume candidates have strong personalities that leader with public funds and resources? do not seem to give room for serious Will this leader be a good steward of listening and feedback. such funds and resources? Will he or she appoint people who will be as trustwor- KATIWALA: thy and accountable? The ethical leader One application of this criterion is

The leader we elect in 2016 must have whether or not Binay, given all the cor- unquestionable moral character and ruption charges against him and his fiber. They must have no conflict of inter- family, is an ethical leader. He has not est and when elected act consistently been convicted of course and should with integrity and beyond reproach. They be presumed innocent from a criminal must show personal and family compli- law perspective. In my view however, we ance to the country’s laws and rules and have enough evidence to decide politi- must have the ability to sacrifice person- cally whether or not VP Binay is worthy of al, familial, and other vested interests. our trust and our vote. FABILIOH! The leaders we want must also advo- There are no serious personal in- cate and practice meritocracy in govern- tegrity issues that can be raised against ment. We need to be assured that they Roxas, Poe, Duterte, and Santiago. How- will prosecute and punish offenders. ever, some have questioned whether For the presidential candidates, the the Araneta family will be advantaged leader we should choose must commit- by a Roxas victory, whether Poe’s former ment to the immediate enactment of the renunciation of her citizenship does not Freedom of Information Act, including is- speak well of her patriotism, whether suing an executive order as one of his or Duterte’s human rights record and rheto- 58 ric disqualifies him for the presidency, Finally, there is uncertainly whether and whether Santiago’s alliance with we will have honest and credible elec- Bongbong Marcos stains her candidacy. tions. Many questions have been raised against the automation technology we Conclusion: have adopted. I have trust in Comelec leadership for the future Chair Andres Bautista, an Ateneo de The Philippines is a country in perpetual Manila alumnus, but we must be vigilant. crisis. To quote from the Italian Marxian In a close election, the outcome might philosopher, in our country, “The old is not be accepted by the people. It will not dying but the new cannot be born.” be the first time where elections in our The last five years, under the Aquino country divide and not unify the country. government, have been good in many Fr. De La Costa once pointed out that ways. Certainly from a macro-economic democracy would survive in our coun- point of view, it is hard to dispute the try only if people have confidence in www.ateneo.edu progress that has been made as we see the ability of democratic government to with the credit ratings upgrades we have reform itself. According to him: “They will been getting. The anti-corruption cam- lose confidence, they will lose hope, not paign has also had limited success with only in their government but in them- the Ombudsman filing a record number selves if our ship of state continues to of cases, including against very power- be, in the words of T.S. Eliot, “a drifting ful political figures. Budget, social wel- boat with a slow leakage.” He ended that fare and educational reforms are in full speech with these classic words: “We swing and they augur well for the future. must stop the leakage; put an end to We are in better shape now on disaster drift; find a direction, and steer.” preparation than we were in 2013 when Stopping the leakage; putting an Haiyan/Yolanda devastated the Visayas. end to drift; finding a direction; steer- But not all is good. Metro Manila is ing: We need leadership for these. Not certainly in a shambles, with citizen mo- just by the next president or a few elite bility paralyzed by bad decisions related politicians but by many others across the to public transportation. Our airports many islands of our country. Only then, and seaports are congested and that as De La Costa wrote, can we solve what is having an economic impact. Internet is perhaps our most critical challenge we connectivity is bad in many places, slow must overcome: the restoration of hope. where they are available. Development

has not been inclusive, and workers, antonio g. m. la viña (ab Philosophy 1980) ateneo de manila university ateneo farmers, and indigenous peoples, to is Dean of the Ateneo de Manila University count a few, continue to be marginal- School of Government. After graduating from ized. Corruption continues to prevail at Ateneo, he graduated from the University of many levels of government, including the Philippines College of Law in 1989. He apparently in our main international finished his Masters (llm 1992) and Doctorate airport. And the state of human rights, as (jsd 1995) in Law from Yale University. we have seen in the Lumad killings and He is a regular political and governance other extrajudicial murders, is dismal. columnist of The Standard and a frequent Rappler. contributor of online articles to 59 DEFIANT

60 by Francis D. Alvarez, sj Ateneo photos by Deepa Paul / www.currystrumpet.com.

“Glory to God in the highest and on earth www.ateneo.edu peace to those on whom his favor rests.” —luke 2:14.

One December morning in 1863, at home on Brattle Street in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow heard the church bells ringing, and he wrote:

I heard the bells on Christmas Day Their old, familiar carols play, And wild and sweet The words repeat Of peace on earth, good-will to men! ateneo de manila university ateneo But two years earlier, Henry’s wife, Fanny, had died due to injuries she suffered when her dress accidentally caught fire. Henry himself was injured while trying to put the fire out, and his face was badly burned. Earlier that year, Henry’s eldest son, Charles, had left home to fight in the American Civil War. A few days before, Henry had just learned that Charles was seriously injured and in danger of becoming paralyzed. 61 And Henry wrote: On December Volume 1, Number 2, December 2015 Number 2, 1, Volume nights, it is And in despair I bowed my head; “There is no peace on earth,” I said; dark outside, “For hate is strong, and if we are And mocks the song honest and Of peace on earth, good-will to men!”

brave enough December nights seem darker than the other nights to admit it, of the year. This year, after all we have been through, the darkness some might say that the darkness has extended and enveloped the hearts of men and women all over the is inside world. How can we say, “Peace on earth, good-will to us as well. men?” How can we On December nights, it is dark outside, and if we are honest and brave enough to admit it, the dark- greet each ness is inside us as well. How can we greet each other FABILIOH! other “Merry “Merry Christmas?” Christmas?” It has been a strange Advent season for me. The past few weeks, I have been visiting quite frequently a lady friend of mine. Before you get any inappropri- ate ideas, she is an 80-year-old religious sister. Last summer, she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. The cancer has since spread. And she is dying. above. Longfellow House–Washing- ton’s Headquarters National Historic Last week, I dropped by their convent for a short Site, located at 105 Brattle Street in visit. One of the sisters there told me that she had a 62 Cambridge, Massachusetts. rough night. The pain was getting worse, and she did not get a wink of sleep. But out of habit, I still greeted her with “How are you?” Expect- edly, she said, “Bad, bad. I’m getting weaker, and there is nothing we can do about it.” But strangely, she said this smiling. And stranger still, because she knew that I was in the middle of final www.ateneo.edu exams and writing papers, she asked, “So how are your papers coming?” Here was an 80-year-old dying nun asking me about my papers! Surely, her troubles were greater than mine. But she did not allow herself to get locked in her own problems. She still reached out to touch others. Last Sunday, I celebrated the Eucharist for her in the convent living room, which had by then become a mini hospital. Everyone knew that it was going to be her last Mass. I thought that during the sign of peace, the family present and the sisters who lived with her could go to her and say goodbye. I thought that we could all try to give her peace one by one and say, “Be at peace. I know you are worried about us, but we will be fine. We will miss you, of course. But we will be okay. Be at peace. You can now let go.” That was the plan. But before we could approach her, she summoned up whatever strength she had left and told us, “Peace. Peace be with all of you. I love you ateneo de manila university ateneo all dearly. But greater than this—and this is what should bring all of you peace—God loves all of you. God loves you!” We had wanted to bring her peace, but in the end, this 80-year-old dying nun was the one who brought us peace. It does not end in despair. It ends with care. It does

not end with heads hung low and heavy hearts. It ends above. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow with his sons Charles and Ernest and his wife Frances. 63 Have a defiant Christmas! Is there any other kind of Christmas? Isn’t Christmas defiance at its very core? with peace. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow realized this, too. And so he wrote:

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep: “God is not dead, nor doth He sleep; The Wrong shall fail, The Right prevail, With peace on earth, good-will to men.”

The story-theologian John Shea is right. The best way to greet each other this season is not with “Have a

Volume 1, Number 2, December 2015 Number 2, 1, Volume merry Christmas” but with “Have a defiant Christmas!” Have a defiant Christmas! Is there any other kind of Christmas? Isn’t Christmas defiance at its very core? All our Christmas symbols, as John Shea points out, tell us so. Outside, it is dark. And we hang these tiny twinkling lights all around us—not bright enough for

us to see that far ahead, but bright enough for people of faith to be reminded that in the midst of darkness, there can still be light. And Light has conquered the world. Have a defiant Christmas! Outside, the trees have lost their leaves, and every- where, we see death. But the Christmas trees are still green. They are ever green! In the midst of death, their little leaves tell us there can still be life. Have a defiant Christmas! FABILIOH! And most defiant of all: We have the God-child in a manger, rejected by innkeepers, rejected by the world—that is why there is no place for him except a manger. But still he comes to give us his love. And he is wrapped not only with swaddling clothes but with the love of a mother who faced accusations of infidelity to bear him and the love of an adoptive father who must have at one point felt betrayed by her. But in the midst

64 of rejection and distrust, there can still be love. Have a defiant Christmas! And this year, we need a defiant faith to celebrate this defiant Christmas. We need to be able to defy our own darkness, our many deaths, and our distrust and say, “There is light. There is life. There is love.” Have a defiant Christmas! We need to be able to www.ateneo.edu ring with the bells more loud and deep and pro- claim, “God is not dead nor does he sleep. The Wrong shall fail, the Right prevail, with peace on earth good-will to men!” And this year, How can we be sure of this? I will let my 80-year-old we need a friend have the final word: We can be sure because God loves us. God loves all of us. defiant faith to celebrate Shortly after I shared this at the Midnight Mass on this defiant Christmas 2014, I learned that my 80-year-old lady friend, Sr. Mary Mark Pizzotti, dm, passed away. And Christmas. strangely, I stopped feeling sad for her, for me, and for We need to everyone who knew her. She is now experiencing the be able to fullness of Light, Life, and Love. defy our own francis d. alvarez, sj (gs 1989, hs 1993, ab Philosophy 1997, darkness, our ma Philosophy 2002, ma Theological Studies 2009) was class many deaths, valedictorian in grade school, high school, and college, and entered and our the Society of Jesus in 1997. After graduating from the Loyola ateneo de manila university ateneo School of Theology, again, as class valedictorian, he was ordained distrust and in 2009. He then served as a chaplain in Philippine General say, “There is Hospital (pgh), and is currently studying Scripture and education light. There at the Boston College School of Theology and Ministry. is life. There is love.” Have a defiant Christmas! 65 PHOTO ESSAY

66 Olive-backed Sunbird (Nectarinia jugularis) The urgent challenge to protect our common home includes a concern LAU- to bring the whole human family together to seek a sustainable and integral development, for we know that things can change. (ls 13) Photos by PRAISE Vic Baltazar, sj DATO All photographs BE taken at the Ateneo de Manila University TO YOU Loyola Heights Campus. { Excerpts from the Encyclical Letter on care for our Laudato Si’ of the Holy Father, Francis, on Care for Our common home Common Home (ls). SI’ 67 “laudato si’, mi’ Signore–Praise be to you, my Lord.” In the words of this beautiful canticle, Saint Francis of Assisi reminds us that our common home is like a sister with whom we share our life and a beautiful mother who opens her arms to embrace us. (ls 1)

68 Philippine Serpent Eagle (Spilornis holospilus) Each year sees the disappearance of thousands of plant and animal species which we will never know, which our children will never see, because they have been lost for ever. The great majority become extinct for reasons related to human activity. Because of us, thousands of species will no longer give glory to God by their very existence, nor convey their message to us. We have no such right. (ls 33) ateneo de manila university ateneo

clockwise, from top left • Lowland White-eye (Zosterops meyeni) • Yellow-vented Bulbul (Pycnonotus goiaver) • Pied Triller (Lalage nigra) • Square-tailed Drongo Cuckoo (Surniculus lugubris) 69 The ultimate purpose of other creatures is not to be found in us. Rather, all creatures are moving forward with us and through us towards a common point of arrival, which is God, in that transcendent fullness where the risen Christ embraces and illumines all things. Human beings, endowed with intelligence and love, and drawn by the fullness of Christ, are called to lead all creatures back to their

70 Creator. (ls 83) Philippine Pygmy Woodpecker (Picoides maculatus) Thus, the creatures of this world no longer appear to us under merely natural guise because the risen One is mysteriously holding them to himself and directing them towards fullness as their end. The very flowers of the field and the birds which his human eyes contemplated and admired are now imbued with his radiant presence. (ls 104)

clockwise, from top left • Lowland White-eye (Zosterops meyeni) • Black-chinned Fruit-Dove (Ptilinopus leclancheri) • Philippine Pygmy Woodpecker (Picoides maculatus) 71 It cannot be emphasized enough how everything is interconnected. Time and space are not independent of one another, and not even atoms or subatomic particles can be considered in isolation. Just as the different aspects of the planet—physical, chemical, and biological— are interrelated, so too living species are part of a network which we will never fully explore and understand. (ls 138)

72 Coppersmith Barbet (Megalaima haemacephala) The acceptance of our bodies as God’s gift is vital for welcoming and accepting the entire world as a gift from the Father and our common home, whereas thinking that we enjoy absolute power over our own bodies turns, often subtly, into thinking that we enjoy absolute power over creation. Learning to accept our body, to care for it and to respect its fullest meaning, is an essential element of any genuine human ecology. (ls 155) ateneo de manila university ateneo

this page • Collared Kingfishers (Todirhamphus chloris) 73 Intergenerational solidarity is not optional, but rather a basic question of justice, since the world we have received also belongs to those who will follow us. (ls 159)

74 Philippine Hawk Cuckoo (Hierococcyx pectoralis) clockwise, from top • Pacific swallow (Hirundo tahitica) • Pied Fantail (Rhipidura javanica) • Scaly-breasted Munia (Lonchura punctulata) • White-breasted Waterhen (Amaurornis phoenicurus)

When we ask ourselves what kind of world we want to leave behind, we think in the first place of its general direction, its meaning and its values. Unless we struggle with these deeper issues, I do not believe that our concern for ecology will produce significant results. (ls 160)

75 Interdependence obliges us to think of one world with a common plan. (ls 164)

76 Spotted Imperial Pigeon (Ducula carola) Many things have to change course, but it is we human beings above all who need to change. We lack an awareness of our common origin, of our mutual belonging, and of a future to be shared with everyone. This basic awareness would enable the development of new convictions, attitudes and forms of life. A great cultural, spiritual and educational challenge stands before us, and it will demand that we set out on the long path of renewal. ateneo de manila university ateneo (ls 202)

from top • Black-naped Oriole (Oriolus chinensis) • Brush Cuckoo or Rusty-breasted Cuckoo (Cacomantis variolosus) • Yellow-vented Bulbul (Pycnonotus goiaver) 77 Volume 1, Number 2, December 2015 Number 2, 1, Volume

FABILIOH!

78 White-breasted Wood Swallow (Artamus leucorynchus) Yet all is not lost. Human beings, while capable of the worst, are also capable of rising above themselves, choosing again what is good, and making a new start, despite their mental and social conditioning. www.ateneo.edu We are able to take an honest look at ourselves, to acknowledge our deep dissatisfaction, and to embark on new paths to authentic freedom. No system can completely suppress our openness to what is good, true, and beautiful, or our God-given ability to respond to his grace at work deep in our hearts. I appeal to everyone throughout the world de manila university ateneo not to forget this dignity which is ours. No one has the right to take it from us. (ls 205)

79 The universe unfolds in God, who fills it completely. Hence, there is a mystical meaning to be found in a leaf, in a mountain trail, in a dewdrop, in a poor person’s face. The ideal is not only to pass from the exterior to the interior to discover the action of God in the soul, but also to discover God in all things. (ls 233)

80 Long-tailed Shrike (Lanius schach) from top • Zebra Doves or Peaceful Doves (Geopelia striata) • Philippine Magpie Robin (Copsychus mindanensis) • Rock Dove or Feral Pigeon (Colomba livia)

The mystic experiences the intimate connection between God and all beings, and thus feels that “all things are God.” Standing awestruck before a mountain, he or she cannot separate this experience from God: “Mountains have heights and they are plentiful, vast, beautiful, graceful, bright and fragrant. These mountains are what my Beloved is to me. Lonely valleys are quiet, pleasant, cool, shady and flowing with fresh water; in ateneo de manila university ateneo the variety of their groves and in the sweet song of the birds, they afford abundant recreation and delight to the senses, and in their solitude and silence, they refresh us and give rest. These valleys are what my Beloved is to me.” (ls 234) 81 Not only did from the photographer these birds It’s been more than a year now since I started photographing birds. Many times, the patient waiting for birds teach me to to appear on an open perch becomes an occasion to wait, they also practice virtue—of patience, of abnegation, of surren- exercised me in der and release of one’s tendency to control. Birds are birds—they show up when they are comfortable with my noticing and your presence. At other times, I noticed that they had discriminating been there all along, but they had been properly cam- signs. Finally ouflaged by the colors of their surroundings. And so it takes one to notice subtle signs of their presence—bird Volume 1, Number 2, December 2015 Number 2, 1, Volume they also taught calls, subtle movements, their flight and perch. And me to act in before long I noticed, this constant exercise of noticing the proper time, and discriminating subtle signs were much like what we do in contemplation and discernment. Not only did sometimes with these birds teach me to wait, they also exercised me in

dispatch, others my noticing and discriminating signs. Finally they also with slow, gentle taught me to act in the proper time, sometimes with dispatch, others with slow, gentle movements, much movements, like the Greek’s moment of kairos—the time of fullness, much like the that Sacred Moment where now and eternity seem to Greek’s moment meet. In choosing the time and place to act, moving where there is just the right light to illuminate this of kairos—the Sacred subject, in waiting for the best focus (which this time of fullness, amateur has not mastered at all for lack of theory), and FABILIOH! that Sacred in waiting for the bird to settle down and gift me with its best angle. Many times I find myself praying to the bird, Moment where “please show yourself, so I may preach to the world how now and precious you are.” eternity seem to There have been so many other gifts that have come to me from birding—new friends and communities just meet. opening up to me. I noticed many seasoned birders I have met along the way can be masters of silence and contemplation too. And they exude humility and pa- 82 tience with beginners like me. And they are hospitable and welcoming, ready to help a stranger on the call of other birder friends. Birding has One taught me about the importance of a tripod become for me especially when photographing mountain birds. And a new way of there are former high school students who see value www.ateneo.edu in what you do and volunteer to give a gift of a tripod! encountering Further down you will read how that gift became a real the Sacred and need in mountain birding! The rough terrain does make hopefully, even your hands shake when you reach the summit of a hill—a lot more difficult than when I am just photographing with photos, birds right across my fourth floor room at the Jesuit I can share Residence when I can even sit while waiting. that joy and And then you learn to notice a whole world seen from a view other than your own, and learn to respect reverence with that world. You can spend time climbing the hill, start- you. Advent is ing from a brightly lit sunny day, and yet the birds know coming soon, better and hide, not from you but because they know the rains are coming. And you just wait it out wherever we can all learn you can find shelter for your head and more important- from the birds ly, for your gear. of how it is to Birding has become for me a new way of encountering the Sacred and hopefully, even with photos, I can wait and receive share that joy and reverence with you. Advent is coming the coming soon, we can all learn from the birds of how it is to wait of a Sacred and receive the coming of a Sacred Presence. Presence. ateneo de manila university ateneo victor r. baltazar, sj (ab Interdisciplinary Studies 1983, ma Fr. Vic invites alumni Theological Studies 1995) is currently Executive Director of the (individuals or groups) Center for Ignatian Spirituality (cis). He is happy to have his to inquire with the Center for Ignatian photos help in promoting the values that Pope Francis advocates Spirituality (cis) in Laudato Si’. He also acknowledges Adrian Constantino, an for spiritual direction expert birder who runs bird tours around the Philippines, and or retreat needs. who, with his wife Trinket, who teaches at the Loyola Schools Contact Ruby or Rina, Department of Biology, have published the photographic guide +63(2)426-4250. A Naturalist’s Guide to the Birds of the Philippines. book, 83 At the end, we will find ourselves face to face with the infinite beauty of God, and be able to read with admiration and happiness the mystery of the universe, which with us will share in unending plenitude. Jesus says: “I make all things new.” In the meantime, we come together to take charge of this home which has been entrusted to us, knowing that all the good which exists here will be taken up into the heavenly

FABILIOH! feast. In union with all creatures, we journey through this land seeking God, for “if the world has a beginning and if it has been created, we must enquire who gave it this beginning, and who was its Creator.” Let us sing as we go. May our struggles and our concern for this planet never take away the joy of our hope. (ls 243-244)

84 Eurasian Tree Sparrow (Passer montanus) FABILIOH!ADVERTISE IN Our online edition reaches over 32,000 Ateneo alumni and other readers around the world. Our print edition of 3,000 is distributed for free to Ateneo offices, affiliates, and key alumni.

For more information, please contact Rita de Villa at +63(2)426-6082 or +63(2)426-6001 extension 4088 or email [email protected].

in memoriam Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. —matthew 11:28 ateneo.edu/alumni/memoriam

August 4, 2015 Antonio “Tony” P. Ampil gs ’63, hs ’67 August 17, 2015 Hon. Agapito “Butz” A. Aquino hs ’55 former Senator and 2nd District Congressman from Makati August 20, 2015 Atty. Hector D. Domondon hs ’73, ab Eco ’77, llb ’82 Fr. Robert “Bob” J. Suchan, sj August 26, 2015 Jaime “Jimmy” L. Unchuan gs ’66, hs ’70 Ramon Ma. “Chito” G. Gonzalez Jr. gs ’60, hs ’64, bs Eco ’68 September 5, 2015 Luis “Totit” P. Olivares Jr. gs ’48, hs ’52, ab ’56 September 7, 2015 Joebert Y. Pe bs Mgt ’90 Volume 1, Number 2, December 2015 Number 2, 1, Volume September 9, 2015 Fr. Felix Wenceslao “Chito” D. Unson, sj hs ’54, ma Educ ’70 September 11, 2015 Rene V. Palma gs ’62, hs ’66, ab Eco ’70 September 14, 2015 Atty. Eduardo “Dindo” D. de los Angeles gs ’54, hs ’58, ab ’62, llb ’66 former Dean of the Ateneo de Manila Law School

September 17, 2015 Atty. Alan F. Paguia llb ’83

September 21, 2015 Eduardo “Eddie” E. Lagdameo gs ’58, hs ’62, bsba ’67 September 23, 2015 Atty. Ildefonso “Ding” F. Bagasao hs ’61, bsba ’66, llb ’70 September 29, 2015 Maria Carmen “Karen” V. de la Cruz abca ’81, ma Psy ’92 October 5, 2015 Atty. Joker P. Arroyo aapl ’48 former Executive Secretary, Congressman from Makati, and Senator October 6, 2015 Winston “Winnie” R. Ungson hs ’70 October 13, 2015 Augusto “Tito” B. Sunico gs ’41, hs ’46, aapl ’48 FABILIOH! Victor “Vic” R. Salak bsbm ’81 October 18, 2015 Sergio Francis P. Mabunay ab Eu ’2007 October 28, 2015 Dr. Manuel Jose “Bangy” C. Dioquino Jr. hs ’77, phd Psy 2001 November 7, 2015 Quintin “Ting” P. San Diego gs ’54 November 10, 2015 James Romulo “Jim” D. Ayson gs ’75, hs ’79, bsbm ’83 November 18, 2015 Antonio “Tony” C. Ongpin ab Psy ’72

88 Photos by Alo Lantin / Lights for Hope. As kingfishers catch fire, dragonflies draw flame; As As tumbled over rim in roundy wells Stones ring; like each tucked string tells, each hung bell’s Kingfishers Bow swung finds tongue to fling out broad its name; Each mortal thing does one thing and the same: Catch Deals out that being indoors each one dwells; Selves—goes itself; myself it speaks and spells, Fire Crying Whát I dó is me: for that I came.

gerard manley hopkins, sj I say móre: the just man justices; Saint Beuno’s College Keeps grace: thát keeps all his goings graces; North Wales Acts in God’s eye what in eye he is— 1877 Chríst—for Christ plays in ten thousand places, Lovely in limbs, and lovely in eyes not his To the Father through the features of men’s faces.

Photo by Vic Baltazar, sj. Collared Kingfisher (Todirhamphus chloris) at the Jesuit Residence, inside the Ateneo de Manila University Loyola Heights Campus.