JANUARY Newspaper
JANUARY Newspaper
JANUARY Newspaper
THE SPECTRUM
www.thespectrum.ph
OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE, BACOLOD CITY
VOL. 51 NO. 13 • February 6, 2008
THESPECTRUMTHESPECTRUMTHESPECTRUMTHESPECTRUMTHESPECTRUMTHESPECTRUMTHESPECTRUMTHESPECTRUMTHESPECTRUMTHESPECTRUMTHESPECTRUMTHESPECTRUM
Fuentes added that “timing” The increase for the next school is tentatively scheduled this week.
population, according to USG might be the possible reason why the year is only 4%, of which 70% will go As of press time, The Spectrum
President Amy Grace Gargar. attendance in the forum was dismal to teachers’ salaries. tried its best and failed to get the
“We were counting on the and even considered the 4% increase “We conducted the forum out of comment of USG President Gargar
University Student Government to be too small to get students’ our concern. We are autonomous and about the matter. The publication is
Dr. Gloria Fuentes, Asst. VP for Academic Affairs following it up as the story progresses.
FLOP. The Jan. 31 Tuition Fee Increase Forum held at the Coliseum did not attract audience. USG President Amy Grace Gargar said spectators were more or less 20, out of the more than 8000 student population.
Official Student Publication of the University of St. La Salle * USLS Coliseum Ground Floor, La Salle Ave., Bacolod City, Negros Occidental 6100 * Volume 51 Number 13
NEWS
2 THE SPECTRUM FEBRUARY 6, 2008
3 females top NOPSSCEA awards Quiachon, a senior BS Biology or achievements. It’s just about to work harder for excellence so
student and currently the Pre-Med doing your best in everything even that I will be worthy of the honor,”
Society President, led her list with though no one is looking,” stressed Japitana said.
outstanding academic records and an Quiachon. Japitana owed her achievement
active involvement both in curricular most to her family as she stated
and extra-curricular activities. Japitana that she grew up with six siblings
“During the interview, I was Japitana humbled herself as and parents working hard to sup-
the only one not wearing execu- she said that she is very grateful port the needs of the family.
tive attire and worse, I was late,” to NOPSSCEA for giving the rec- “I am very thankful that our
Quiachon disclosed. ognition to her as the outstanding dear Lord chose to put me in a big
But that did not become a non-teaching personnel. family with little means because
hindrance for her, she said that: “It is not everyday that we are this has taught me the values of
In fact, the interview was a bit placed in the limelight for our frugality, which is very important
heartwarming for me because one everyday role is to be the silent especially nowadays that we are
Quiachon Calamba Japitana of the judges said that I was worth force behind the desk,” said Japi- amidst rising prices of everything,”
waiting for. tana. Japitana said.
By Randell T. Aranza tal Private Schools Sports Cultural tanan were recognized as Most Quiachon was also the Most Japitana said she was terrified With all her heart, Japitana
& Epi Ma. Kassandra A. Dajao Educational Association (NOPSS- Outstanding Student, Most Out- Outstanding Student of NOPSC- when she delivered her speech offered her profound gratitude
CEA) Awarding Ceremony at St. standing Tertiary Teacher and CEA secondary level back in high during the awarding ceremony to the people who supported her
Three women from the University Scholasticas Academy Gym last Most Outstanding Non Teaching school at the USLS-Integrated because she had to deliver it in and made the person she is today,
were cited as outstanding student, Jan. 25. Personnel, respectively. School. front of educators whom she have a proud Lasallian and a NOPSS-
tertiary teacher and non-teaching Nea Cecille Quiachon, Steph- “Excellence is not about paid respect. CEA awardee.
personnel in the Negros Occiden- anie Calamba and Rowena Japi- Quiachon accumulating medals, awards “This recognition inspires me
Official Student Publication of the University of St. La Salle * USLS Coliseum Ground Floor, La Salle Ave., Bacolod City, Negros Occidental 6100 * Volume 51 Number 13
NEWS
FEBRUARY 6, 2008 THE SPECTRUM 5 3
TNEWS
FAST
West Chicago. The volunteers Examinations For Teachers with and its failure to attend in a
Institute for Negros medium enterprises (SMEs) in Magazine Layout, Best in Sports
Dev’t sponsors Forum the region through trainings for from Lewis University included a passing rate of 98% compared Page, Best in Feature Page, Best government-sponsored event
on Marketing Strategy trustees of organizations, executive -- Nursing Program Head Dr. to the national passing percentage Editorial Page and Best News was not a loss for the whole
directors for non – government Nan Yancey, Assistant Campus of 27.55 %, while the 2007 Page. University.
organizations, professional Minister Sabrina Ortman, and graduates in Bachelor in Secondary Giving the MassComm “We will not join any COPRE
The University of St. La Salle –
associations, business support students Richard Brown, Raquel Education had a passing rate Department more citations were and PIA-sponsored event again in
Institute for Negros Development
groups, and investment promotion Caban, Isabel Garcia, Michelle of 79 % in comparison to the individual writers Ann Margaret the future. We felt that this is a
sponsored a forum on Strategic
centers. Hoffman, Colleen MacGrude, national passing percentage of Echarri (3rd English Editorial dream come true for the past
Marketing last January 18 at the
CIDA Country Director Mr. and Daina Norusis. 29.12%. Writing and Ms. COPRE 2007), editors who were dismayed by
Santuario de La Salle.
Ed Sutherland and USLS President The group’s activities included The successful passers of the The Spectrum Newspaper Editor the results of the past awarding
Mr. Josiah Go, a much-sought-
Br. Ray Suplido, signed a MOA participation in the a Gawad August 2007 LET from Class 2007 Aries Cariño (1st in Copy reading and competitions. We’re on
after Guru on Strategic Marketing
last January 18 at the Santuario de Kalinga build project from the were honored through Testimonial Filipino and 3rd in News Writing for the next level. Even bigger
talked about the “Blue Ocean
la Salle. funds donated through Lewis Rites held last January 31, 2008 at English), and The Spectrum News Universities like the University
Strategy” while his spouse Ms.
The Ceremonies for the University President Br. James the Santuario de La Salle. (Source: Writer Alexander Cuyoca (3rd of San Agustin in Iloilo don’t
Carolina Go discussed emerging
MOA Signing included a video Gaffney FSC. www.usls.edu.ph) Editorial Cartooning). (Source: join COPRE maybe for the same
trends in Service Innovation
presentation of the “Value Chain From Jan. 9 and 10, their www.usls.edu.ph) reason,” Managing Editor Arjay
Strategy.
Analysis of Industries” and the activities at University of St. La Solitario said.
Josiah Go has already conducted
Salle included a Campus Tour and
MassComm paper The Spectrum, the 51 year-
over 450 in-house and public turnover of various knowledge
Visit to Museum, meetings with continues to bag PIA’s inconsistent old official student publication of
seminars to diverse clientele. An products and training modules to rules draw negative
the University. CELAM and Balayan, a visit to COPRE Awards the University releases monthly
author of 10 bestselling marketing
Bahay Pag-asa, dinner fellowship reaction from USLS newspapers, magazine issues,
Interested parties may call the
books, he won the AGORA
USLS Graduate School at Tel. with the Brother President, and The Mass Communications official student paper among others and its editors said
Award for excellence in Markett\ Department official departmental
No. 433-1278 or 432-1189 local a visit to the Community Health that as a media organization, The
ing Education in 1994. (Source: publication The Lead continued Meanwhile, The Spectrum was
120. (Source: www.usls.edu.ph) Nursing program at Pontevedra. Spectrum has already made a mark
www.usls.edu.ph) to bag major awards in the not qualified to join in the regional
A meeting between Nursing in campus journalism as it enters
Dean Dr. Nan Yancey and USLS November 2007 College Press tilt since they do not attend its 6th decade of existence.
Canadian Agency, American Student College of Nursing administrators Conference and Awards sponsored conferences sponsored by the said “We don’t do our newspapers
USLS signs MOA for Volunteers visit La Salle was also held last Jan.9. (Source: by the Philippine Information government agency. and magazines for awards. We
partnership www.usls.edu.ph) Agency. “Ever since, the competition’s don’t organize national conferences
Two staff and six students of Lewis COPRE revised its rule to give inconsistencies with its rules which for recognitions. We do those tasks
The University of St. La Salle University, Romeoville, Illinois The Lead a Graciano Lopez Jaena can favor select participating to serve our purpose as watchdogs
(USLS) was designated as the visited the University of St. La
USLS gets 98% Award for winning Best Magazine publications have caused the past of students and as instruments of
partner Academic Institution Salle last January 3 – 12. Passing Rate for twice in a row since normally it is Spectrum participants to doubt press freedom in the campus level.
of the Canadian International The volunteers were led by Elem. Ed. Teachers given to publications that win the and be skeptical about event’s In our 51 years of existence, we’ve
Development Agency (CIDA) team leader Ms. Natalie Bayci, Licensure Exam Best Magazine, Best Newspaper or credibility,” the top editors of The been recognized even by national
through its PRIVATE representing the Diocese of Joliet, Best Departmental Paper thrice in Spectrum said. organizations and our awards don’t
ENTERPRISE ACCELERATED Illinois. Graduates of the Bachelor of a row. The top editors added that define us anyway,” The Spectrum
RESOURCE LINKAGES Also with the group was their Elementary Education under Aside from those major they themselves are organizing Editor-in-Chief and The Lead’s
(PEARL 2) Project which aims chaplain Rev. Greg Skowron, the College of Education passed titles, The Lead also won Best even bigger events like a national former Opinion Editor Manuel
to provide support to small and Associate Pastor at St. Mary the August 2007 Licensure Departmental Paper, Best campus journalism conference Jeffrey O. Sistoso said.
Official Student Publication of the University of St. La Salle * USLS Coliseum Ground Floor, La Salle Ave., Bacolod City, Negros Occidental 6100 * Volume 51 Number 13
OPINION
4 THE SPECTRUM FEBRUARY 6, 2008
editorial
Sportsfest. Theft. Apathy.
So did Sportsfest 2008 give some favors to Lasallians who badly want/need
a long break from academics? For those who came and cheered for their
colleges during the entire week, they definitely had so much fun.
The University Student Government was so prepared for the first big
event in the University for 2008. It wasn’t a big hype before the week started
but as the games kicked off, everything seemed to run smoothly. Now that’s
what you call sense of responsibility. USG made the students trust to them
more.
In a month, another USG Election will be held. Students will again have
the chance to vote for their fellows whom they want to handle events like the
Sportsfest and those whom they want to play vital roles in pushing for their
concerns. Everyone should understand that USG’s role is far from merely
being an event organizer.
For years, the turnouts of voters in the elections have been really low
with at least 60% of voters usually missing. It is also USG’s responsibility
to prove to the students their relevance because it is only when students
fully understand their Government’s functions and importance that they will
spend time to line up and vote.
***
Two months before the school year ends, two major issues came out.
One is the rising theft cases inside the University and second was Lasallians
absence during the Tuition Fee Increase Forum held at the Coliseum last
Jan. 31.
The rising number of theft cases inside the University campus is now a
major concern for Lasallians and the administrators. Parents may soon start
to ask about how safe their sons and daughters (and their belongings) are
inside La Salle. It is very alarming for four students to be victimized in just one
day losing a total of P22,000 worth of valuables. This is a complex problem
Will you think twice?
that the University Administration has to face squarely if only to ensure the
safety and security of their students. While some are thinking about the
Tensei Ninjutsu. Healing and Sharing.
You think it happens in cartoons and Bubble Gum “I just wish that one day
solutions to this alleged organized crime, every Lasallian should do their
part by taking care of their belongings and becoming more vigilant.
anime shows like Naruto only? Think all Lasallians, including
again. Watching cartoons in television
The second more alarming issue is students’ apathy to the tuition fee or the net isn’t just for entertainment myself, will be just like
increase forum. Theft cases can be solved through initiatives but indifference only, but serves as a reminder for a daily Aries D. Cariño
will take centuries to dissolve. However, students, who are most of the time living. Chiyo-Baasama and
more vulnerable to abuses and neglect, are not solely to be blamed why
there was a low turn-out of spectators during the forum. It is not the 4%
In the anime series Naruto, Chiyo-
Baasama used her bare hands to transfer Moneymicrography. If you are one of
Fr. Suarez, healing and
that students view as too little for an increase, but the Administration’s
willingness to really bring the issue to all students concerned. If there was
her chakra to Gaara’s dead body, only to
revive him even to the expense of her own
the people who all the while thought that
the strengthening of peso versus dollar
sharing their blessings
an 8,000 spectators, issues about the poor services of some of the offices in
the University will be brought up, among other concerns relevant to student life. Thru her tensei ninjutsu (life transfer is quite an aide to boost the economy, innately without asking
fees. ninja technique), she was able to share her you’re wrong. I call this scenario as
The real question is how the Administration announced/promoted the LIFE as a blessing noting that she is an old “moneymicrography” or the depreciation anything in return.”
forum. The Spectrum wasn’t even informed. And while they might insist woman and Gaara is a male teenager. It of household income.
that they posted the announcement in the daily bulletin, it is not enough is one commendable act of unselfishness As of Feb.3, Sunday, the peso is up to meat products) and buy products labelled
to inform all students, and parents for that matter, who will shoulder these and generosity. to P40.50 to a $1 compared to February as Product of the Philippines instead of
annual increases. Dear Lasallians, a small space in a long-sized newsprint That episode in Naruto’s is comparable 2007’s average of P48. For us who imported ones. Second, don’t overspend
bond paper is not enough to reach everyone. The poor PA system did not to the acts of the healing priest Fr. are dependent to overseas parents, the on petty things such as cellphone load for
work if they did use it. They said they are alarmed, but actions speak louder Fernando Suarez where he also uses his chunky peso development is not a call for unimportant communications and taxi
than words. Were they really alarmed by the poor attendance? hand to heal the sick and the broken a celebration. It is a beckon to be thriftier rides for not-so-rush transportation (so
If they did their very best to campaign for student participation in the and wiser in beating daily expenses.
hearted. He said that “It’s not me, I don’t rather travel early to arrive early). Third, be
tuition dialogue, then the better question is: What kind of administrators
know anything about how it happens. Why? For every dollar they send, as the water and electricity wise which means use
and teachers do we have here in this University if they are just breeding more
than 8,000 indifferent, apathetic souls? Up till now I don’t know how people get immediate family member, I lose about pail and bucket than shower, use electric
20-40 spectators in that forum will never represent the more than 8,000 healed, but I know it’s God.” P7.50, which was formerly utilized in my fan than air conditioner, always turn-off the
others who may have more pressing concerns. The wonders of impossibility and household expenses such as food, water, lights when not in use and double check for
If Lasallians can talk about these issues, then apathy isn’t really a its supernatural power are creating a electricity, school tuition, health care, faucet leaks.
problem. Then what? Or Who? change for the better. It is because these transportation and communication. But I challenged myself and tried the three-
concerned individuals know that they are if I take the weakest peso rate three years way-step for 30 days. To my surprise,
an instrument of hope. I just wish that ago which was about P56, I lost as much some are now part of my daily routine.
one day all Lasallians, including myself, as P15.50 for every dollar, decreasing our If we become stronger, clever and better
will be just like Chiyo-Baasama and Fr. household income to 27% now. more than yesterday, the undesirable
Suarez, healing and sharing their blessings Because of this reality slap, I have thought scenarios turn out to be a positive duel.
innately without asking anything in a three-way-step to stay on-budget. First,
return. turn to healthy food diet including fruits For feedback:
*** and vegetables (these are cheaper compared awoy_usher@yahoo.com
THE SPECTRUM
Entry and Exit problem I’m posting, exit through these
FOUNDED 1956
www.thespectrum.ph Paper Walls “I think it would be gates apply as well. I got scolded once
when I tried to use gate 6 as my way of out
SPECTRUM
THEVOL. 51 NO. 13 FEBRUARY 6, 2008 more convenient if of school one evening. I was just hurrying
home since it was 7:15 pm and through
F O U N D EManuel
Editor-in-Chief D 1 9 5 6Jeffrey O. Sistoso
they would let college that gate is my fastest way home.
w w Managing e c t r Arjay
w . t h e s pEditor u m . p D.
h Solitario Allen Gabriel M. Iñigo I’ve talked to a large number of students
VOL.
Newspaper Editor Aries D. Cariño
51 NO. 2Editor
julyAllen
4, 2007
students, especially who I know boards near the IS and 6th
Asst. Newspaper Gabriel M. Iñigo
Magazine Editor Janela Joy R. Libo-on
Editor-in-Chief Manuel Jeffrey O. Sistoso I usually get in trouble at school every
the one boarding gate and told them about the concerns
I’ve been talking about. Definitely, if
Asst. Magazine Editor Neslie Faith V. Sianson
Associate Editor Faith R. Dulla
Literary Editor Jamie F. Bentinganan
Managing Editor Arjay D. Solitario
time my late-list piles up as each day
starts. I’m staying at a boarding house
near the school, to allowed to pass through those gates,
transportation from our dormitories to
Layout & Graphics Editor Rigil Kent B. Ariola
Newspaper Editor Aries D. Cariño
Asst. Layout Editor Timothy A. Escopete
Asst. Newspaper Editor Katherin L. Dela Cruz
which is not quite far from the University also use gate 6 like school would be a lot easier. That’s what
and its pretty ironic that I get tardy often we concluded. Knowing about how the
Newspaper Editor Janela Joy R. Libo-onMagazine Writers
Magazine Writers times. I’ve calculated the time for me to the IS kids.” IS gate works; we are now then left with
Asst.Jason
Arthur Magazine Editor Neslie Faith V. Sianson
I. Javellana Andrea Y. Derecho get to school from my boarding house one option which is the gate 6.
Kathreen Joyce I. Tubid Marcelina Yandall and it’s not supposed to take more than ones near us are the IS gate and Gate 6. I think it would be more convenient if
John Alexander
Newspaper M. Cuyoca
Writers Celine Chua It also pisses me off when sometimes you they would let college students, especially
Magazine Writer 6 minutes if you think about the distance
EpiAlexander
John Ma. Kassandra A. Dajao
Cuyoca Jamie F. Bentinganan between the two. I usually start to walk to can’t even get to access the second gate the one boarding near the school, to
Randell M.
Allen Gabriel T. Aranza
Iñigo Andrea Derecho Photojournalists school 15 minutes before the bell would since the IS students also have a reserve also use gate 6 like the IS kids. It seems
Arthur Jason I. Javellana HectorYandall
Marcelina Gregory A. Benedicto ring but somehow calculations weren’t time for them to use it leaving us with a bit unfair that the students from the
Mariel Antonette Juarez Krazelle M. Escarrilla
Layout Artists good enough and I would end up rushing only one choice – Gate 1. Integrated school has a reserved time on
Kathreen Tubid Paolo Trio
Jumpee P. Tipon Photojournalist down the halls just to get to my class in I know for a fact that the IS gate is when to pass by the second gate and still
Mark Romulo C. TumbagahanHector Gregory A. Bene-
Layout Artists a nip of time. What took me so long was definitely for the IS students and it would manages to pass by gate 6 in the morning
Adonis Canlobo dictoEditorial Assistants that I had to pass by the first gate instead be pretty crowded if we pass by their gate while us, the college students, aren’t even
Timothy A. Escopete
Illustrators KrazelleRegi Joseph B. Arguelles
M. Escarrilla of the three other gates that I just passed but I don’t see any reason why we’re not allowed to use the gate 6 as our way of
PatrickTipon
Jumpee U. Ellaga Mervin G. Vera allowed to pass by Gate 6 just like IS entry or exit. If we’ll not be allowed to
by. It’s not that I don’t want to use the
Jobelle G. Vallega Charmae Labao
Illustrators other gates but somehow it wasn’t possible students are allowed. The gate 6 is usually use the said gate then it would be better if
Editorial & Graphics Editor Rigil
LayoutAssistant Patrick
Kent
Moderator U. Ellaga
B. Ariola for me to actually get into any of it. open for the vehicles that needs to get none between the IS and college students
Jobelle G. Vallega
Ms. Hannah Papasin-Mariveles in but whenever I get to pass by it every should use it. On the first place, this gate
Huge part of the Lasallian population
The Spectrum is the Official Student Publication of the University of St. La Salle. Its editorial office is
Moderator is from out of town and prefer to stay morning, I get to see some high school is supposed to be only for transportation
located at the USLS Coliseum Ground Floor, La Salle Ave., Bacolod City, Negros Occidental 6100; it can
Ms. Hannah Papasin-Mariveles
be reached through the telephone number, (034) 432-1187 local 172 and e-mail address, spectrum_usls@ in dormitories and boarding houses. A students using it. I tried to get inside vehicles, not our shoes transporting us
yahoo.com. lot of these students stay in either the once using the said gate but as expected, inside.
The Spectrum
All rights reserved.is No
thepart
Official
of TheStudent
SpectrumPublication of the in
may be reproduced University of St. the written consent
any form without
I wasn’t allowed to enter at all. It’s pretty
of Salle.
La the publication. All contributions
Its editorial become
office is located TheUSLS
at the Spectrum property
Coliseum and theFloor,
Ground Editor-in-Chief
La reserves the boarding houses at the side or behind the
right to edit all articles for publication. University. It’s troubling that we have to disappointing and it doesn’t just end For feedback:
Member: National Alliance of Lasallian Campus Journalists.
pass by the first or the second gate if the there. Entry of these gates isn’t the only spectrum_usls@yahoo.com
Official Student Publication of the University of St. La Salle * USLS Coliseum Ground Floor, La Salle Ave., Bacolod City, Negros Occidental 6100 * Volume 51 Number 13
OPINION
FEBRUARY 6, 2008 THE SPECTRUM 5 5
“St. John Baptiste de La Salle, pay for us...” Call for excellence
“Aren’t universities charging exorbitant [EDITOR’S NOTE: The speech was delivered by Nea Cecille V. Quiachon during
tuition fees in effect criminal syndicates? Laser Point “...they should worry the awarding ceremony of NOPSSCEA awardees at the St. Scholasticas Academy
With all the money they are raking in, how Gym, Jan. 25.]
come the Philippines has been the slowest about the level of
growing economy in Asia per capita in the Rev. Fr. Noly A. Que, NOPSSCEA President, NOPSSCEA task force
last 30 years?”
Manuel Jeffrey O. Sistoso
apathy their students chairpersons, fellow honorees, distinguished guests, teachers, parents, students,
-Tony Lopez, The Manila Times
have reached.” friends, a pleasant afternoon to all.
It is a great privilege to give this response speech for and in behalf of my
Let me borrow the title of this column Increase Forum in the Daily Bulletin. For fellow outstanding students for the tertiary level, Nichole and Angelica. I know
from a fellow campus journalist at De La those who don’t know what it is, the Daily Some members of the library staff weren’t that they are as thrilled and grateful as I am to be given this recognition. It’s
Salle University-Dasmariñas. Bulletin is a long-sized newsprint bond even trained about the values of good nice to be back here in front of you and be given this opportunity to share my
I was walking along the Coliseum paper being posted in some bulletin boards customer service. thoughts once again like I did back in high school.
Lobby when I saw a seemingly small inside the campus containing information The number of theft cases is on the Needless to say, College life is very different. You get exposed to a bigger
gathering inside the Coliseum, too small, all like candidates for dropping, list of absent rise, like tuition fees. Suggestions on the crowd with crashing personalities. Academic and extra-curricular demands
spectators could even fit in one classroom. teachers, schedules of recollections, among improvement of security facilities inside attack from all corners. But among that flood of faces, there will always be a few
The Discipline Officer passed by and he others. The font size of the texts is more the campus could have been raised. who will lead, excel, and motivate. Students and faculty who stand out, who,
informed me that it was actually a Tuition or less 12. 70% of the tuition increase will go to without effort and without expecting any reward in return, are outstanding in
Fee Increase Forum. I was surprised since My dear fellow Lasallians, a small the teachers’ salaries. Students might ask the things they do. They are those who have the inner drive: a burning passion
as a frontrunner in promoting dialogue in space in that long-sized bond paper would about the presence of some teachers who to make things better, to initiate positive social change, to make a difference.
this campus, The Spectrum should have never be enough to capture the attention are not world class, who don’t know how For the most part, I don’t know if my fellow honorees will agree with me,
been there from the start and should have of almost 9000 students and their parents to speak English well and whose method but what we do in school is simply what is expected of any student… because
been informed days before about this very who would be affected by the 4%. The of instruction is too old school for college- the call for excellence resounds in any school’s mission statement. The problem
important Lasallian gathering. Was it a Public Address System did not work if level learning. Are we going to expect fewer is that only a few respond to that call. When you come to think of it, it’s
secret meeting? they actually utilized it. It was not the 4% teachers of these kinds next school year? really simple. As Lord Chesterfield (an English writer and statesman) puts it:
I did not want to entertain any being too small for an increase. It was their Those are just a few. The more than “Whatever is worth doing at all is worth doing well.” In other words, all of
conspiracy theory. sincerity to actually bring the matter to the 8000 souls may have more than 8000 us can be outstanding in our own way. It depends on our role, our niche, in
Together with my fellow editors, we attention of the students. different concerns intertwined. I couldn’t the society. Wherever you’re good at, just do your best, love what you do and
got inside the 8,000-seater coliseum and I don’t believe students are apathetic understand the University’s rigid annual excellence will simply follow.
witnessed only the Q&A portion. Assistant about tuition fees. increases when they couldn’t even Charles Churchill once said: “The danger chiefly lies in acting well,
Vice-President for Academic Affairs Dr. Granting that the Administration compensate the amounts we’re paying, No crime's so great as daring to excel.” Being called outstanding or
Gloria Fuentes noticed me (and maybe my did their very best to actually encourage and when they couldn’t even improve on “most outstanding” puts a person on a pedestal. It is branding him or her as
stare expressing disgust and disappointment Lasallians to attend in that very significant the way they treat this Annual Tuition Fee “exceptional” and “excellent”. It is very heartwarming yet humbling at the
about the only 20+ or so spectators) and forum and the attendance was still dismal, Increase Forum. same time. Heartwarming because all our efforts in and out of school are being
called my name asking if I had questions. then they should worry about the level of Let’s not wait for Lasallians to pray and acknowledged and humbling because we know that one contest or one search is
Take note, I did not lift a hand signifying apathy their students have reached. say, St. John Baptise de La Salle, pay for not enough to give due recognition to all the outstanding college students out
that I wanted to ask. I immediately grabbed us. there who are showing excellence in various fields: be it in sports, academics,
the microphone anyway and asked about Sample Questions They will hold the same forum again. charity work, etc. We gladly share this recognition with them.
the efforts they made to ensure attendance If there were more students who attended Let’s all be there and raise our concerns. As I look into the eyes of my fellow honorees I can see so much idealism.
in the forum, or in promoting the event to the January 31 forum, a lot of relevant Our great founder who wished to educate This idealism sometimes gets a favorable response from others but oftentimes is
the Lasallian community. questions could have been asked. the poorest of the poor did not want us to opposed by indifference and apathy: two of the biggest problems that the youth
Forgive me but I just couldn’t take The Library fee is too big for the be indifferent. are facing right now. It is my personal desire that we may be able to maintain
their answers. The only noteworthy quality of library that we have. The that idealism. This recognition is not simply a title but a challenge to continue
information was when she said that they computers can be described as “de-uling” For feedback: being outstanding:
included the schedule of the Tuition Fee due to really slow internet connection. je_poi@yahoo.com … even when no one is looking
… even after we graduate and leave the comforts of our 4-walled classrooms
You will not believe it codes that make it legally and politically
to face the real “dog-eat-dog” world. A world where, usually, all that idealism,
taught in school, is lost or compromised.
Being outstanding does not always reciprocate to an easy life or a bed of
roses. All of us here, I’m sure, have our own “Maalaalo Mo Kaya” stories to tell.
Social Light “I am looking forward difficult to change salaries of teachers,
administrative personnel as well as the
We may project a very strong image but behind that are struggles, failures, and
excruciating life experiences that have contributed to what we have become now
that the government non-teaching personnel?
and without which we wouldn’t have been outstanding after all.
will righteously utilize Piggy Bank As the song goes: “deep inside this armor, the warrior is a child”. And who
does that child run to at the end of the day? To answer that, allow me now to
Neslie Faith V. Sianson The government has allotted a budget
the allocated funds for for the education sector but due to the thank the people who have brought us this far, our inspirations to whom we
share this honor:
morally corrupt government officials who
Education is a progressive discovery of our education so that we suppose to be defending and providing ♫ To our respective alma maters, teachers, mentors: Thank you for
sharing to us your wisdom, patience, understanding, and love through the
us with public welfare. There is a highly
ignorance.
- Will Durant (1885-1981) U.S. author can push for a relevant reduced number in the teachers, number years…
of classes and number of schools. Several ♫ To our dear parents and families for bringing us into this world, for
and historian.
and critical quality of teachers complain about the injustice all the sacrifices you’ve made for us, and for providing the home where we get
our first education and eventually build our character. Let me share the lyrics of
One of the most essential elements
in my life is education. I was fed with
Education geared towards in the delayed, low, and deteriorating
pay, lack of political support from the a song that captures what perhaps all of us want to say in tribute to you:
“It takes a lot to know what is love… It’s not the big things, but the little
educational references and part of summer
workshops since grade school. Now in
nation-building.” government, a flop in the retirement or
post-employment benefits, allowances, things that can mean enough… a lot of prayers to get me through… a n d
and in-kind benefits. It is a budding there is never a day that passes by I don’t think of you… you were always there
college, I felt the transition in my attitude
Since the time of the Spaniards, the crisis in the management of the education for me… pushing me and guiding me always to succeed… you showed me,
towards studying. I don’t do chock-a-
maladminstration of justice already crisis. when I was young just how to grow… You showed me, everything that I should
block files of reviewers and notes anymore.
I’m asking myself why I don’t have the existed. Padre Damaso, the notorious- know. You showed me, just how to walk without your hands… coz mom and
fervor enthusiasm to attend my classes and egotistic Franciscan priest conceding Act-Play dad, you always were the “perfect fan”…” (Backstreet Boys)
prioritize my studies anymore. Is it because favors only to elite Filipinos like the Since we are stakeholders and sharers ♫ To those who add the color in our lives, and who, personally, I
of the teachers, curriculum, learning deceiving and assuming “Kastilain” and of this entity, then, if we want to fight for consider as one of God’s greatest gifts to me. I may not have the happiest and
process or the environment? influential wanna-be Doña Victorina quality life, let’s disregard being pathetic easiest life but these people stuck up with me through my ups and downs. They
de Espadaña (the historic malady of rather to exhibit willingness and the are always there to support, love, back me up, scold me when I do wrong, and
Dwindling Art of Pedagogy bureaucracy). desire to stand up as proactive catalysts for accept me for who I am, outstanding or not: to all my friends!!!! Guys, I offer
Teaching is such a noble job. change. this feat to you too. I could’ve never made it this far without you.
Unfortunately, there is a corruption Prof’sVeracity Now that we are equipped with the right ♫ And to the ultimate source of strength and excellence: THE LORD
existing in the educational sector. Even To obtain a good education and knowledge, we are accountable in reducing ALMIGHTY who makes all things possible and who deserves all the glory for
the antediluvian days of the Spanish develop his/her potential is a right of every the hopeless feeling that several citizens Man’s achievements.
regime, corruption is already prevalent. child. The existing corruption in the manifest today. I am looking forward that Thank you NOPSSCEA for this recognition. Metaphorically, this is like a
Bureaucracy is a quintessential scenario educational sector especially in the public the government will righteously utilize the pebble dropped in a lake of still water. May this create ripples of inspiration to
in the lives of the people. The Spanish schools simply enervates the morale of the allocated funds for education so that we other students so that they may finally break away from indifference and apathy
friars were the corrupt officials who teachers instead of bolstering them in order can push for a relevant and critical quality and join in the crusade to actually initiate transformation that our society
promoted frailocarcy, the instability of to provide quality education to students. of Education geared towards nation- badly needs. Being outstanding does not always mean hoarding awards and
colonial administration, selfish friars How can students learn when there are building. medals. For me, it is more of actually touching lives. Touching lives, striving
who only satisfy their personal interest, no teachers interested to apply in public for excellence without stepping on others is true success.
craving for power, wealth and fame; schools or universities when their salaries For feedback: Let me end with a poem by Ralph Waldo Emerson:
they denied the rights of the Filipinos. are generally ruled by fairly civil service spectrum_usls@yahoo.com How do you measure success?
To laugh often and much;
To win the respect of the intelligent people and the affection of children;
We will have to bear with defective OHPs - AVRC To earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false
friends;
The Spectrum: To appreciate beauty;
To find the best in others;
In Que Ber column of Sugar, you took notice of the defective facilties in the classrooms
To leave the world a bit better whether by a healthy child, a redeemed social
particularly the OHPs. For the last 10 years we have not acquired new OHP units as this device is condition, or a job well done;
getting obsolete. We will have to bear with them until they are no longer functional...sort of until To know even one other life has breathed, because you lived…
supply lasts. The good news is we are slowly working for the multimedia projector to be assigned This is to have succeeded.
in the classrooms. I hope this will answer your call for any action and from whom. To God be the glory! Thank you very much and may all of you have a
blessed day ahead.
- College AVRC Live Jesus in our hearts, forever.
Official Student Publication of the University of St. La Salle * USLS Coliseum Ground Floor, La Salle Ave., Bacolod City, Negros Occidental 6100 * Volume 51 Number 13
FORUM
6 THE SPECTRUM FEBRUARY 6, 2008
S SPEAK
LASALLIANS
Bacolod has become a very important city during the recent national controversies involving ABS-CBN, AGB Nielsen Media
Research Philippines and GMA Network about the alleged manipulation of TV Ratings. The Spectrum randomly asked Lasallians in
Bacolod about their reactions and here are the responses.
“It’s really about money at the expense of the televiewers and the “The truth shall prevail. I think the public has the right to know
general public. Somebody there is telling a lie and somebody is telling what the truth behind this issue is. It’s unfair for ABS-CBN to be
the truth, but nobody will accept it. It is very wrong to manipulate prohibited by GMA in telling the truth on TV.”
ratings result. Everybody wants to be number one because it means - Joerivic Castaño, BN1L
more advertisements. And more advertisements mean more
money.”
- Ernest Marvin Latiza, Chair, Mass Communication Department “Both networks have their own proof in terms of their allegations.
I’ll just pray for it and hoping sooner or later everything will be fixed
“It’s true that GMA is a cheater. GMA had a negotiation with our and clarified.”
neighbors where in they promised to give them monthly groceries - Ronald Alonzo, CO2
and money allowances.”
- Mika Ella Pahilanga, AB1-A
“For me it doesn’t matter which station tells the truth. Both
“It’s not about who cheated. It’s about the truth. AGB Nielsen is the networks said before that service comes first, that they only want
one who is liable because they are not vigilant enough to secure their to entertain and serve the people. So it’s useless to argue about the
clients’ protection.” TV ratings.”
- Paolo Ramirez, CO1 - Aprilyn Dolorosa, BN1- L
Official Student Publication of the University of St. La Salle * USLS Coliseum Ground Floor, La Salle Ave., Bacolod City, Negros Occidental 6100 * Volume 51 Number 13
SPORTSFEST
FEBRUARY 6, 2008 THE SPECTRUM 5 7
Official Student Publication of the University of St. La Salle * USLS Coliseum Ground Floor, La Salle Ave., Bacolod City, Negros Occidental 6100 * Volume 51 Number 13
SPORTSFEST
8 THE SPECTRUM FEBRUARY 6, 2008
Official Student Publication of the University of St. La Salle * USLS Coliseum Ground Floor, La Salle Ave., Bacolod City, Negros Occidental 6100 * Volume 51 Number 13
SPORTSFEST
FEBRUARY 6, 2008 THE SPECTRUM 5 9
Official Student Publication of the University of St. La Salle * USLS Coliseum Ground Floor, La Salle Ave., Bacolod City, Negros Occidental 6100 * Volume 51 Number 13
SPORTSFEST
10 THE SPECTRUM FEBRUARY 6, 2008
Official Student Publication of the University of St. La Salle * USLS Coliseum Ground Floor, La Salle Ave., Bacolod City, Negros Occidental 6100 * Volume 51 Number 13
SPORTSFEST
FEBRUARY 6, 2008 THE SPECTRUM 5 11
Official Student Publication of the University of St. La Salle * USLS Coliseum Ground Floor, La Salle Ave., Bacolod City, Negros Occidental 6100 * Volume 51 Number 13
SPORTSFEST
12 THE SPECTRUM FEBRUARY 6, 2008
Official Student Publication of the University of St. La Salle * USLS Coliseum Ground Floor, La Salle Ave., Bacolod City, Negros Occidental 6100 * Volume 51 Number 13
SPORTSFEST
FEBRUARY 6, 2008 THE SPECTRUM 5 13
Official Student Publication of the University of St. La Salle * USLS Coliseum Ground Floor, La Salle Ave., Bacolod City, Negros Occidental 6100 * Volume 51 Number 13
SPHERE
14 THE SPECTRUM FEBRUARY 6, 2008
Tramontina: Contact on stage at Gallaga Theater By Kathreen Joyce I. Tubid relationship can go on even just the play was named ‘Contact’ and Tramontina, which is an
using technology. this show is a mixture of different association of theater artists, film
A back-to-back direction for According to Lopez, Weblab’s influences of theater plays,” said makers, visual artists, actors, is
the first time of two women, director, Contact is intended to Montelibano. basically the making of artworks
Tanya Lopez and Jade Snow everyone specifically the high This two short plays is an in different form without asking
Dionzon, USLS’ artist in school and college students and involvement of Produksiyon profit from it and this 2008 play
residence were being exposed as the young professionals who are Tramontina, USLS Alumni Office, has been their fourth of consistent
Produksyon Tramontina had its very much aware and unaware of the USLS Office of the Artist in producing short plays in La Salle.
two contemporary plays entitled our present situations. Residence, Production Support Contact which is furthermore
Contact held in Gallaga Theater. Weblab which is the first to be Group, Masskara Ensemble, all about love and relationships
Produksyon Tramontina on stage, is about cyber chatting Negros Museum and MassComm and different individuals'
Founder and President Mariano and how relationships can happen Society, in cooperation with perspectives and experiences on
“Manny” Tramontina organized in the net while love 4 1/2 is about the actors from USLS Masskara both, can be watched in Php50
these two plays named Weblab different perspective of individuals Theatre Ensemble Alumni, Mass every 6:45pm of January 24 - 26,
and Love 4 ½, mainly to reflect on love, sex and relationships. Comm. students and alumni 31 and February 1, 2 and 7 – 9 at
to the audience the things that “The basic similarity of the two and Negros Summer Workshop the Gallaga Theater.
is happening now and that plays is on communication, such as graduates.
IN FOOTBALL
CBA keeps crown in women’s
ENG’G heaps title in men’s
By Allen Gabriel M. Iñigo their strategy while team CBA finally locked a target for the goal,
and Randell T. Aranza
took the break as a time to relax tying the score to 1-1.
and to laugh at the bloopers made Negros Occidental Football
Sweet taste of victory filled the by their teammates. Association referee Emilio Guto
air as the College of Business Just as the game seemed called for an injury time during
and Accountancy retained their destined to roll for CBA, team the 20th minute of the second half
crown in the women’s division BSN finally made a goal, seven when Teejay Oñasa of ENG’G
while the College of Engineering minutes before stoppage time of sat at one corner of the field,
Official Student Publication of the University of St. La Salle * USLS Coliseum Ground Floor, La Salle Ave., Bacolod City, Negros Occidental 6100 * Volume 51 Number 13
ENVIRONMENT
FEBRUARY 6, 2008 THE SPECTRUM 5 15
“Turning the lights off for of the world’s major capital cities reduction policies and find out • Switch to green power.
Earth Hour is a great first step, will unite and switch off for Earth what’s already happening. Look This is one of the best ways you The third successfully laid Philippine eagle owl (Bubo philippensis)
but if you really want to see a Hour. for ways to reduce energy use can make a difference. Contact in the Philippines recently turned three months old last Jan. 28
difference, then make Earth Hour How Lasallians Can Participate and encourage improvements. your electricity provider today at the Negros Forest and Ecological Foundation Inc Biodiversity
part of your everyday life.” at Home and in School If administrators know their and switch to green power, a Conservation Center (NFEFI-BCC).
Earth Hour 2008 intensifies Simple things like turning off students are keen to make their cleaner, more renewable form of The new owlet was hatched last Oct. 28, 2007 after 35 days
this year is it becomes global. appliances while not in use and schools environmentally friendly, energy that does not contribute to of incubation.
Overview switching your light globes to they’ll be even more inclined to global warming. If all Australians The 2007 owlet is the third offspring of owl couples
It started with a question: energy efficient bulbs, will all help take action. switched to green power today, Mahinhin and Hinahon, the only Bubo philippensis breeding pair
How can we inspire people to take us reach our goal of reducing our At home, you don’t have to Australia’s total greenhouse pollu- worldwide.
action on climate change? annual emissions by 5%. Even live in total darkness every day tion would be cut by 30% in one The parent birds are in Bacolod City as part of a breeding loan
The answer: Ask the people of something as simple as turning out to make a difference. Just follow year. That’s the equivalent of more program of Avilon Montalban Zoological Park, Protected Areas
Sydney to turn off their lights for lights when you’re not in a room these five quick and easy tips. than 40 million cars! and Wildlife Bureau (PAWB) Wildlife Rescue Center, Fauna and
one hour. and switching to cleaner sources • Switch to compact fluores- • Use less hot water. This is Flora International and the World Owl Trust.
On 31 March 2007, 2.2 of electricity like “green power”, cent light bulbs to save money not only a good water saving tip, NFEFI-BCC curator Dr. DJ Darwin Bandoy said that the
million people and 2100 Sydney make a big difference. and reduce emissions. Lighting it saves electricity too. Spend one
owlet is still nameless up to this moment and its gender is yet to
businesses turned off their lights As well as the very simple accounts for around 5% of house- minute less in the shower.
be identified.
for one hour - Earth Hour. This things you can do in offices and hold greenhouse gas emissions, and Help make Earth Hour 2008 Owlet 2007 siblings’ Bubo (2005) and Milenyo (2006) have an
massive collective effort reduced schools, like printing double-sided compact fluros use 75% less energy even bigger unidentified gender also.
Sydney's energy consumption by and using recycled paper, there than an equivalent incandescent Beyond turning off your lights
10.2% for one hour, which is the are many other ways to help the bulb. Although the bulbs cost more Bandoy said that endoscopic surgery and feather sexing are the
for one hour at 8pm on 29 March only two ways to determine owl’s gender.
equivalent effect of taking 48,000 your community reduce its carbon up-front, you will actually save
2008, there are lots of things you The curator added that they will send feather samples for feather
cars off the road for one hour. footprint. money through the energy saved
With Sydney icons like the • Get off standby. Speak to and extended life of the bulb. can do to make Earth Hour 2008 sexing soon to the World Owl Trust in United Kingdom, a center
Harbour Bridge and Opera your office manager or school • Turn appliances off while an even greater success. Here are which determines owl genders in the world, because endoscopic
House turning their lights off, and administrator about turning off not in use. Unplug any appliances just a few to get you started. surgery is quite dangerous to operate.
unique events such as weddings by any equipment that is not being like mobile phone chargers, TVs, • Create your own Earth Hour Owlet 2007 had its first fledging cited last Dec. 24, 2007
candlelight, the world took notice. used, including computer screens, microwaves, MP3 players, which – learn how to organize Earth wherein it was seen using its wings to fly out of the nest said
Inspired by the collective effort of photocopiers and printers. are not being used and are on Hour in your town or local com- Bandoy.
millions of Sydneysiders, many • Turn off lights at the end of standby. In Australia, appliances munity. The three-month-old owlet still stays at its parents’ cage though
major global cities are joining the working day. Before you leave on standby consume up to 10% of it weighs and stands just like them.
• Advertise. If you’ve registered
Earth Hour in 2008, turning your place of work or classrooms your electricity bill. Bandoy said that they are only waiting for Hinahon’s (father
as a business, don’t be afraid to
a symbolic event into a global remember to turn off any lights • Turn off anything that owl) signal to shoo away the owlet before they will transfer it to
movement. and computers. Remember to doesn’t need to be on. A good rule advertise your support for Earth another cage.
Originating in Sydney in unplug your mobile phone or is to turn off anything not being Hour. It’s great for business and "We are happy to have the owlet. The mother laid an egg in
2007, the Earth Hour campaign laptop charger when it’s not in use. used. When you leave a room the environment! August but the egg did not survive for it was eaten in September.
has now gained global attention. • Find out what’s happening or leave the house, turn off your The couple copulated again and successfully laid the second egg
As a result, on March 29, 2008 at in your school and workplace. lights or appliances like the TV or Source: which was hatched as the new owlet,” said Bandoy.
8pm, millions of people in some Ask about your school’s emission computer. www.earthhour.org
Official Student Publication of the University of St. La Salle * USLS Coliseum Ground Floor, La Salle Ave., Bacolod City, Negros Occidental 6100 * Volume 51 Number 13
SPORTS SPECIAL
16 THE SPECTRUM FEBRUARY 6, 2008
Official Student Publication of the University of St. La Salle * USLS Coliseum Ground Floor, La Salle Ave., Bacolod City, Negros Occidental 6100 * Volume 51 Number 13