Dos THE LOUISIAN
TO WRITE OR TO BE DEAD SILENT
FEBRUARY 10, 2021
NEWS:
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SSC launches new bike rack project on USL’s foundation days
56TH FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL ISSUE
FEATURE:
VICTORY TALKS: PREPARING FOR BATTLE
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SPORTS:
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CANCEL...SPORTS?
VIRTUAL EXPERIENCE. Aided by SSC’s Project iTell, USL goes full digital in its aim to provide the online experience of the celebration of its 56th Founding Anniversary. [ART BY SHANE DELA CRUZ]
Project iTell, Park Dyak to launch during virtual celebration of USL’s 56th Founding Anniversary BY WENDEL VIERNES Supreme Student Council (SSC) Magnifico will launch Project iTell, an SMS blasting movement, to inform students of different University updates for the school year amidst the new normal setting. Inspired by USL Vision by 2026 to be the center of mission and excellence in 21st century education, the project will kick off during the virtual celebration of USL’s 56th Founding Anniversary on February 9-11, 2020. SSC President Valerie Agustin said they are now furnishing the documents needed by Globe Telecom so that students can now be notified of the happenings during the conduct of the foundation. “As we move to a new era, the SSC will move forward exponentially as we eliminate every barrier in terms of communication and connectivity to every Louisian students regardless of their geographical location. With that,
the iTell will be a solution,” Agustin said in an interview. The project is not compulsory to all students because only those who are interested to register and willing to receive message notifications may subscribe. Along with the Project iTell, SSC will also install Project Park Dyak, a bike rack parking space intended for people who use bicycles to go to the University. The project aims to uphold USL’s Kaibigan ng Kalikasan Program (KKP) by reducing carbon footprints from vehicle emissions and by promoting a healthy lifestyle among Louisian bikers. “The current situation will not stop the council from implementing projects that are beneficial in helping Louisian students to reach their dreams and aspiration,” Agustin said. Meanwhile, with the theme “USL @ 56:
Moving in Synergy in the New Normal towards Mission and Excellence,” the three-day celebration aims to showcase the talents of students despite the pandemic while working for the University’s Vision. Even if there are no sports events and limited engagements, SSC assured that the foundation will still be meaningful because all other events are geared towards the development of students across all areas. With this, the SSC introduced Concept Clash and Louisian Ambassador and Ambassadress as their new events to increase social awareness and involvement, one of the five core values of USL, among students. “The participants will be connected online and it is timely that the talents and skills will not only be limited to the eyes of the Louisian community but also to others,” Agustin said. Champions in every contested event will
receive P100 worth of load to encourage participants to do their best in representing their department. Last year, the Senior High School (SHS) was hailed as the overall champion followed by the School of Engineering, Architecture, and Information Technology Education (SEAITE), School of Accountancy, Business and Hospitality (SABH), Junior High School (JHS), and School of Education, Arts and Sciences - School of Health and Allied Sciences (SEAS-SHAS). Agustin then urged competing teams to be grateful and to work as one Louisian community to promote mission and excellence because this is one reason why they commemorate their founding anniversary. “May we remind ourselves the very reason why we celebrate our founding anniversary. We offer this celebration as our way to show that USL is truly gifted to gift,” she added. D
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EDITORIAL
Denormalize the “New Normal” It would be a criminal understatement to describe the celebration of the University’s 56th Founding Anniversary as being “different” from the previous celebrations. For the first time in its history, USL is celebrating virtually—without the usual festivities and grandiose, the loud cheer from the audience and the crowd of people buzzing around the campus grounds sharing the magical experience.
INSEN(SI)TIBO. PRINCESS RHEA D. BALINBIN Batid ng mga Louisiyano na matindi ang kompetisyon sa pagitan ng bawat departamento tuwing sasapit ang foundation days. Gusto ng lahat na ipakita ang kanilang lakas at manalo, subalit sa kabila ng pagnanais na ito, hindi lahat ay gustong makilahok at tumulong upang manalo ang kanilang departamento—karamihan ay gustong magwagi subalit sa pagsali sa mga kompetisyon ay wala namang plano. Ikaw, isa ka ba sa nakikisaya lang kapag nanalo na, o isa ka sa mga tumutulong upang manalo? Pahirapan ang panghihikayat ng mga lalahok sa iba’t-ibang kompetisyon, kinakailangan pang magbigay ng karagdagang puntos ang mga guro upang may sumali. Oo nga, malaking bagay ang dagdag puntos na ito para sa mga estudyante ngunit marapat ba na ito ang maging pangunahing dahilan ng kanilang pagsali? Nakasaad nga sa isang linyang hango sa ating school hymn: “We’ll always stand in defense of it for it makes us brave and fit”. Ito ay tumutukoy sa isang katangian ng isang Luisiyano na ipinagtatanggol at ipinaglalaban ang kaniyang
Due to the existing threat of COVID-19, with the apparent incapability of the state to put an end to the spread of the virus, we’re currently stuck with strict quarantine protocols: ban on mass gatherings and strict social distancing. These conditions have undeniably taken away moments that we could’ve shared and experienced as a community, the usual celebration of the foundation inclufed. But the Lousian community, a group that holds on to the
paaralan, kaya naman inaasahan na ganoon din ang kaniyang gagawin para sa departamento na kaniyang kinabibilangan subalit tila taliwas ito sa ipinapamalas ng ilan kung saan sila ay maghihintay pa ng anunsyo na mayroong plus points bago sumali at ipamalas ang kani-kanilang talento sa kompetisyon. Bakit kailangan nilang pahirapan ang mga lider ng kanilang departamento sa paghahanap ng lalahok kung sila ay sasali lang din naman pala kung ilalatag na ang plus points bilang premyo? Hindi ba’t mas masarap sa pakiramdam kung ang ‘pagkawagi ng kanilang departamento’ at hindi lamang insentibo ang dahilan ng paglahok? Dapat maliwanag sa mga estudyante ang kanilang layunin, ‘yon ay magkaroon ng masayang pagdiriwang at gayon din ang maipanalo ang kanilang departamento na siyang ninanais at hindi lalaban para lamang upang magkaroon ng insentibo sapagkat ang Foundation Day ay isang pagdiriwang at hindi isang pagkakataon upang mangolekta ng plus points. Sa kabilang banda, suporta at tulong pinansyal naman ang kinakailangan ng mga kalahok mula sa kanilang departamento sapagkat hindi biro ang kanilang iginugugol na oras at pera dahil sa pagsisikap lamang na manguna. Masakit sa loob kung ang pangakong tulong na pinan-
value of “innovation, creativity and agility,” is not one to back down. The pandemic might’ve taken away our chance to wander around the campus grounds but it will not stop us from showcasing our talents and feel our oneness as Louisians—not with the perseverance and ingenuity of our school administration and our top school organization, the Supreme Student Council (SSC). Utilizing existing platforms including Facebook, Twitter, Zoom, and the University’s online learning system (Neo-LMS), SSC succeeded in finding a way to bring the celebration to us without needing to be together physically. And while this might’ve sacrificed the usual sports events, the fact that they were able to achieve conducting a university-wide competition for us to enjoy together is already an impressive feat in its own. Online quiz bees and debates, pre recorded performances for the sociocultural events and a lot of other programs has been made possible thanks to the effort of our event organizers. Albeit virtually, the fruits of technological advancement has allowed us to be together and feel each other’s presence and support. Almost as if we could make anything eventually work out even with the restrictions of the “new normal.” Almost. DENORMALIZE THE “NEW NORMAL” | PAGE 6
syal ay hindi ipinagkaloob. Maaring sabihin ng mga kalahok, “tayo na nga ang napagod, tayo pa ang magbabayad” kaya naman tunay na kinakailangang mapunan ang pangangailangan ito upang magbigay gana sa mga kasali. Sa madaling salita, ang mga mag-aaral ng bawat departamento ay dapat magkusa na ibahagi ang kanilang talento upang magbigay-aliw sa bawat manonood. Marapat lang din na ang mga namumuno naman sa bawat departamento ay magbigay ng mga pangangailangan ng kanilang mga kalahok na siyang magiging susi sa kanilang pagkapanalo. Ang aksyong ito ay magbibigay daan upang matunghayan ang pinakamagandang palabas lalo na’t ang pagdiriwang ng anibersaryo ng pagkakatatag ng ating mahal na pamantasan ay isang pangyayari na talaga namang inaabangan taun-taon. Tunay, ang ating pagdiriwang ng foundation days ay isang kompetisyon, ngunit sa kabila ng lahat, tayo ay bumubuo sa iisang pamantasan, at dapat lang na pinakaengrandeng palabas ang ialay sa madla sa loob man o labas ng ating pamantasan. Kaya dapat ang lahat ay magbigay ng kanilang parte para sa mas ikasasaya ng foundation day na siya nating maipagmamalaki sa lahat. D
Christian Bosch Taylan Punong Patnugot Maria Dorothy Reyes Kapatnugot Wendel Viernes Tagapamahalang Patnugot Diane Nina Angeli Pattaguan Patnugot ng Balita Zjee Axl Zwyldritz Viernes Patnugot ng Panitikan Steve PJ Carpio Patnugot ng Sports Jenine Maree Zingapan Princess Rhea Balinbin EJ Carreon Diana Marie Cagurangan Carlos Stephen Lingan Jr. Aleya Mae Mabborang Jan Michael Oñate James Aquino Parallag Kawaning Manunulat Jenric Shane dela Cruz Punong Karikaturista Jeaniviva Agpalo John Nicole Dacanay Reizter Jullen Salagan Kawani Kevin Gumabay Punong Litratista Dexter Caranguian Maria Angelica Taguiam Victoria Kate Garcillan Lean Gazzingan David Nino Angelo Pattaguan Kawani Glaisdale Kheiz Camaruan Punong Dibuhista Russel Martin Punong Tagalapat ng Disenyo Danilo Gali Rigel Kurt Suacillo John Aibrahm Cabrera Kawani Rommel Royce Cadapan, CPA, MBA IDr. John Benito Bartolome Tagapayo Pamuhatan sa Q Building, University of Saint Louis, Tuguegarao City, Cagayan Online: tthelouisiancourier@gmail.com fb.com/towriteortobedeadsilent
F EATURE
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Victory talks: Preparing for battle From poor internet connection to traveling and mass gathering restrictions, it has seemed like an impossible feat to even have willing participants. And yet here we are, conducting the first virtual celebration of our beloved University’s 56th Founding Anniversary. Apparently, no pandemic is going to stop Louisians from celebrating our skills and talents, and above all, developing our sense of community. And this ain’t no easy feat, so we asked the deans and head student leaders from each department as to how the pandemic has affected their preparation and how they persevered despite this circumstances. Let us hear what the people leading the frontlines for the battle for victory have to say!
JEFFREY VINASOY SEAITE GOV
The short period on recruiting participants, challenges brought by the pandemic, events removed which our department excel a lot and problems with working apart from others. There is no denying that this year’s foundation, we are the underdog. Amidst these challenges, I trust the baby dragons(dep mates) to fulfill the mission entrusted by our seniors to reclaim the throne. We are drag-
JAMES PATRICK JOVE SHAS GOV
I think this year’s founding anniversary will be very unpredictable for everyone, so our goal is to at least place in the top 3 spots to stay with the pack. And as the Governor of my department, I believe in the capabilities of my SHASmates in bringing home the crown and, as we say in our battlecry this year, we will take the frontline. We have experienced a lot of challenges along the way. We had difficulties in scouting
RITZBRANDON VICARME SEAS GOV
Our Department may have the least in population but that won’t stop us from being on top. We’ll give a good fight by using all our available talents and skills to compete with other Departments. Inspired by unity, Hahataw ang Dugong Bughaw!
ons, and we never turn down a challenge. Comparing the past years, it was trouble-free to find and conduct screening for our representatives for the foundation day. This year we had a lot of struggles in terms of time, distance, finances, scouting, workplace, communication, and internet. Still, here we are competing for the throne wherein the SEAITE department is indeed full of flexible and adatable students, excellent student leaders, and supportive instructors. To all the dragons from the SEAITE. Continue to live the values thought to us by the school. Thank you for your never-ending love and support every time we have activities especially this foundation day. Together join us in reclaiming the throne. AgbiagSeaite! D
for participants because of the restrictions, academics, and problems on the internet connection. But despite all the hindrances to reach our goal, we really needed to be persistent so we sacrificed our spare time and asked for assistance from our supportive Dean Dindo Asuncion and the SHAS faculty to easily identify participants and get tasks done on time. Dearest SHASmates, I am asking for your solidarity to our beloved department by giving your full support to all our participants who are competing with pride and honor. Even if we are not physically present to shout our loudest cheers, let’s make noise virtually and enjoy the foundation days in the comfort your own homes. Remember that we are in this battle together so let’s do our best to reign supreme. D
Recruiting participants from a small population is truly a challenge. Some would end up having multiple events but we make sure of having quality performance and not just for the sake of having an entry. With the delegation of tasks and support from our Faculty and fellow students, we’re all set for this year’s Founding Anniversary. SEASians, continue supporting our entries for this year’s Founding Anniversary and keep on having our Department’s identity of #SEASaya! Together, we’ll be the game-changer. Stay safe! Mabuhay ang Dugong Bughaw! D
JASPER PADEWAY SABH GOV
SABH is known for its indomitable unity that makes our department shine from others. Just like bees, unity is our key to survive and to win. #WeAreOne Our burning desire and determination to create quality performances is our way to the throne. Kung si Jollibee, Bida ang Saya; sa SABH, bida ang Talent at Skills kaya naman #BiBeedaNaAngDilaw
ZACH XAVIER SINGSON SHS SSG PRES
With all of our efforts and sacrifices that we’ve done?Confidently, Yes. I am sure that we can defend our throne and have our back-to-back win this 56th Founding Anniversary of our University. Communication became our number one problem especially if our participant came from other municipality. But, because of their willingness and dedication
DANICA NIHL ANGELINE PATTAGUAN JHS SSG PRES Knowing that other departments are competitive, our department makes efforts to ignite the flame of STAR Louisians and go beyond limits. All I can say is that we are de-
Upon hearing that the foundation days will be virtual, we were a little bit hesitant if we will be able to do it and because of the connection problems we have. Another problem was the ECQ/GCQ status, this restricted our actions and preparations for the foundation days. These challenges didn’t stop us to show our world class talents to everyone and our passion outshined these challenges. Hi mga BiBees, thank you for giving your best to everything that you do amidst the stress in acads and I salute you all for that. If you feel like giving up, remember why you started. Remember the all the battles you have won, all the fears you have overcome and never doubt yourself. Mahal na mahal ko kayong lahat. D
to represent the Senior High School, they did everything they could in order to connect with us and to represent the Senior High School. To the Whole GEM Community, as your President, I would like to say that I am very proud. Because I saw the participation and willingness of everyone, especially our participants, to defend our throne. Always remember that no matter what rank we may get this 56th Founding Anniversary, The Senior High School doesn’t have to prove anything because we have shown our capabilities and potentials that we are indeed a GEM that cannot and will never be broken. Let us continue to Soar Higher! D
termined to offer our best and give our full effort to stand out brighter. We really struggled due to the tight schedule because of our intramurals last week. We were both busy preparing for our intramurals and the foundation days but we still continue to strive and give the best in us. Nakakaproud lahat ng efforts, talents and determination kahit na mahirap mag adjust and maraming challenges . No matter how this would turn out, don’t lose the shine within you. KAYA NATIN TO! ARRIBA JHS! D
F EATURE
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MARY ANN BAQUIRAN
DINDO ASUNCION
RONALD VILLAVERDE SEAITE DEPARTMENT
SEAS DEPARTMENT
With the innate talents, exposure and academic preparations of our Louisian STARs and Lousian GEMs, very supportive parents/guardians, hardworking faculty and the nature of competed events, I believe that the High School has a great chance to emerge to be the champion. With the limitations brought about by this pandemic and the challenge in being able to know the talents of our new students as well as in determining the best talents of the department, I believe that the conduct of Intramurals was the solution to such concern. With the solid support of the faculty, equally supportive parents/guardians and strong leadership of our student organization, we had our Intrams as a great avenue to showcase the best talents of our student. With it, we were able to identify and prepare well our best talents ready for the Foundation Days competition. A short message to your department. To our High School family, as you take your academic break to celebrate and enjoy our first ever online Foundation Days, let us be one to prove to the other contingents that the High School teams are teams that they need to prepare and look forward to. And that the JHS is determined to SHINE AND WIN and the SHS to DEFEND the THRONE. Together with all your teachers, we say Aja High School, LET’S GO FOR THE GOLD...we are always in support and proud of you!!! To the Lousian STARs, this is the moment that we are waiting for. There is no other perfect time other than this 56th Foundation Days for us Lousian STARs to shine to fullest. You are the youngest (in age) contingent, full of potentials and so talented. Give the best preparation and performances and let’s make it historical to emerge to be the BEST! To the Louisian GEMs, we have gone so far and had proven last Foundation Days that WE ARE THE BEST though the Senior High School is the youngest(in years of participation) contingent. Show them once more the UNDEFEATED POWER of the Lousian GEMs. Gather all our powers and talents toward the road to victory!!! D
We are hoping for the best this 56th Founding Anniversary. Everybody in SHAS is giving their own share of talents to give everyone a good show. We have high hopes that we will win and be declared champion despite the difficult situation that we are in. It was difficult to gather participants for the different categorical events but we still managed to have contenders after constantly encouraging our students and faculty to participate. Not being able to supervise and practice our participants face-to-face is really quite saddening because we know they have more to showcase if it were like the previous foundation days. Let us make the best out of what we have. Let not the pandemic be a hindrance in achieving success. Regardless of the situation, fight and win! D
I believe that SEAITE will always be a contender for the championship. We have proven that through the years. As to our chance to emerge as champions this year, I would honestly say that it will be difficult for us considering that the sports events and other events where we excel are missing in this year’s edition. Nevertheless, we will still be giving our best and whether we emerge as champions or not, in my heart, the SEAITE Dragons will always be the champions. It was very difficult for us to scout for participants and to convince students to participate. In fact, there are several events where we don’t have participants. But I told the officers not to force students to participate. They should just motivate them to be responsible and proudly represent SEAITE. I personally believe that students should not be forced just so we have participants. More than the competition, this year’s edition should primarily serve as an avenue to showcase our talents as Louisians. Since we cannot just move/travel freely and work in groups due to the protocols in this pandemic, it is very difficult to supervise participants, assist them, and work together as a group to produce a common output. We just have to think that we are no different with the other schools/ departments so we just have to be patient. My dear SEAITE Dragons, I know that it will be difficult for us to emerge as champions because of the absence of sports events where we are the strongest but I still encourage you to give your all. Whatever happens, for as long as you gave your best, I will always be proud of you. Remember what I told you, don’t think of the competition, rather think of this event as a chance to showcase your talents not only to you co- Louisians but to the outside world. D
I have seen how SEAS soldiered on since 22 years back. The fighting spirit is just so strong. This, despite losing every time. This year, though, I have a good feeling that we will make it. For one, our waterloo, sports that is, is not in the list. Also, the discipline, the smarts, the patience, the unity and the vibrancy of the SEAS students are our weapons in this fight. Being physically apart makes the preparations difficult for the Council and the student-participants. Good that they are creative and responsible. Plus, they have a set of responsible advisers to guide them. So I say, pandemic or not, SEAS is ready. My SEAS dearies, the celebration of our founding anniversary is what it is, a celebration. A grand celebration of your talents, abilities, wits, creativity. A celebration of your unity. So do the usual things that you do in any celebration: relax, enjoy, have fun! Happy 56th, everyone! D
JHS DEPARTMENT
SHAS DEPARTMENT
ALICE TULIAO
SABH DEPARTMENT
As the lead person in the SABH, I give my 100% trust and confidence (as always) to the council and to our contingents who will display their prowess in the different events. I know that all the other departments are tough to beat and so is the SABH. Surely my school will also give them hard time to be in the overall champion slot. So will the SABH emerge as the champion? It has been and will always be possible. The pandemic really gave us many challenges in the preparation. Foremost, because students and student leaders are not in school, the council had difficulty in scouting contingents. This is aggravated by the fact, na never pa naming nameet face to face ang mga freshmen namin. Noting too, that we did not have the usual departmental day and night as a venue to scout/source contingents for the foundation days. Second, we did not have the opportunity to check the participants thru dry run/practices. These challenges though were met head-on thru social media particularly the messenger. It is limited but it helped. To the Yellow Team, show the indomitable and fiery will to victory. Go get the gold! D
VENUS GUYOS
CLAIRE GUMARANG SHS DEPARTMENT
So far, as I continue to monitor and witness the preparation for the different contested activities, I can say that we are still 11/10 confident that we can defend and keep the throne. No pressure can keep our Gems from shining. We are definitely living up to others’ expectations. The throne will definitely be for the Senior High school to keep. With the rest of the nation and the world, we have been revolving with the fast-paced turn of events as we all manage the health crisis brought by the spread of COVID-19 pandemic. We’re all in dire straits which neglected everyone’s capability to show his limitless opportunity to shine, but we are taking every chance to unite despite of distance to create a powerful synergy which can create pressure that can mold us to the shiniest GEM we could be. There are two ways that can happen under pressure. You can either be broken and turned into dust or you can be shaped and turn into a diamond. The GEM community will continue to reign because gems are not made to be broken. D
NEWS
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SSC launches new bike rack project on USL’s foundation days BY DIANE PATTAGUAN With the purpose of encouraging students and teachers to use an environment-friendly mode of transportation, the Supreme Student Council (SSC) launched “ParkDyak,” a bikepark project, during the weeklong celebration of the 56th Founding Anniversary of the University. Under the leadership of SSC President Valerie Joy Agustin, the project was created to resolve bicycle users’ parking
problems going in and out of the University. Aside from providing parking spaces, the SSC did the project to encourage the stakeholders to improve their physical health and reduce air pollution. This is also a manifestation and support to SSC’s environmental goals and the USL’s Kaibigan ng Kalikasan Program (KKP) advocacy. “From the very beginning, we have already envisioned a clean and green environment for our dearest University,”
SSC Environmental Coordinator Patrick Decena said. “With a strong desire to keep our school grounds in as pristine condition as we can and do no damage to the environment, we have decided to launch the bike racks during the 56th Founding Anniversary of our University,” he added. The “ParkDyak” Project, which originated from the combined words “Park” and “Padyak”, shall be installed beside the University along the Arellano Extension and will serve as the parking allot-
Louisians unleash talents in virtual socio-cultural nights BY EJ CARREON Amid the current situation in the new normal, Louisians unleashed their talents and skills in performing arts as they celebrated the University of Saint Louis’ 56th Founding Anniversary in the first leg of the virtual Socio-cultural Night held via Facebook live last February 9. Despite the quarantine restrictions, every student participated actively in the said event conducted online for the first time. “We didn’t expect the amount of support we are receiving since it will be the first time na mag-oonline event ng foundation days. It was overwhelming,” said Valerie Joy Agustin, Supreme Student Council (SSC) President, when asked about the Louisian
community’s cooperation and contributions to the success of the event. In fact, the hashtag #USLat56InTheNewNormal became one of the top trends in Twitter Philippines and other social media platforms. Moreover, every Facebook live of the SSC’s official account showcasing the events gained 1500 to 2500 viewers. “We are glad to know that even the alumni or those who are not enrolled in the university are entertained and that is something that inspires us to do better and create quality events. May we all be connected online to a point that we create memories that are worth reminiscing,” Agustin added. However, according to Bryan Jhay Tagacay, SSC Socio-cultural Coordinator, the event’s preparation was a challenge for everyone due to limitations brought by the pandemic.
“Pero hindi hadlang ang pandemyang ito upang hindi ipagpatuloy ang 56th Founding Anniversary. Bagkus, isa itong pagsubok sa atin para makagawa ng pasabog at masayang ala-alang magpapaindak at huhubog sa pagkatao ng bawat Luisyano,” he said. During the first night, the contested events were Vocal Solo, Dance Solo, and Turn on Tiktok that were won by JHS, SHAS and SEAITE, respectively. Meanwhile, the other events such as Online Total Performer, Birit Queen, ECOuture and the Search for Louisian Ambassador and Ambassadress are the activities that the Louisian Community should look forward to on the next legs of the Socio-cultural events. D
ment for bicycle riders of the school. “As we uphold the University’s advocacy, Kaibigan ng Kalikasan Program, we believe that using an eco-friendly ride like a bicycle will help our environment reduce toxic air pollution,” Agustin explained. The SSC hopes that the project will improve the quality of life for riders, ease the impact on the transportation system brought about by the pandemic and inspire more Louisians to opt for a bike as a medium of transportation. D
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NEWS
Makabagong pakikipagdebate, idinaos sa unang USL Virtual Foundation BY CARLOS STEPHEN PERFECTO L. LINGAN, JR
Nagtagisan ang mga iba’t ibang departamento ng Unibersidad ng San Luis para sa taunang Debate Cups sa ika-56 na Founding Anniversary ng pamantasan nitong nakaraang Pebrero 8 hanggang 12. Limang grupo ang lumahok sa naturang paligsahan partikular ang School of Engineering, Architecture, and Information Technology (SEAITE), School of Accountacy, Business, and Hospitality (SABH), School of Education, Arts and Sciences (SEAS), Senior High School (SHS), at Junior High School (JHS). Hindi katulad sa kinagisnan na pakikipagdebate, naglatag ng mga
konsiderasyon at bagong panuntunan ang Supreme Student Council (SSC) para sa mga kasali rito. Maliban sa nasa tahanan lamang ang mga kalahok at gagamit ng isang aplikasiyong pantelekonperensiya na Zoom, ang mga nailatag na adjustments ng SSC ay maaring mahintulad sa tradiyunal na face-to-face debate at makasabay sa tinatawag na New Normal ang aktibidad. Sa pamamagitan ng virtual “breakout room” na isang isolation feature ng Zoom, maaaring magkita lang ang mga nasa grupo, para mapag-usapan ang estraehiyang gagawin nila sa kabilang grupo. Kaugnay rito, naglaan ng tatlong (3) minutong time allowance ang SSC baka sakaling
magkaroon ng problema ang departamento sa pagbibigay ng punto dulot ng mahinang koneksiyon sa internet. Katulad na lamang sa unang araw ng patimpalak, ang preliminaries, kung saan hindi napakinggan ang speech ng SEAITE dahil sa problema sa internet. At noong Pebrero 9, isa sa mga kalahok ng naturang grupo ay hindi nakapagdalo na naging resulta ng pagkapanalo ng kanilang kakumpitensiya na SHS. Ganoon pa man, natatangi ang Unibersidad ng San Luis dahil bunsod ng pandemya ng mundo, nagawang idinaos pa rin ang taunang foundation days na parte ng tradisiyon ng bawat Louisyano.D
SHS dominates oral competitions BY RONA MAE AGGARAO Senior High School (SHS) showed that they are here to defend their throne as they dominated the 56th Founding Anniversary oral events held via Facebook live last February 9. Defending champion, SHS, bested five other departments after capturing first place in five of six categories in the said contested event. “Upon knowing the results, we already knew it. It’s undeniable that
our GEM participants are truly amazing and deserving because of their unparalleled dedication and incomparable time and effort during the preparations despite the hurdles encountered in the new normal,” Zach Xavier Singson, the mayor of the SHS said. “No pressure can keep the GEM community from shining,” he added. The SHS managed to bring home at least a top three finish in all oral events composed of Oration (English), Oration (Filipino), Declamation (English and Filipino) and Spoken Po-
etry (English and Filipino) with the topics: “Becoming the New Filipino,” “Edukasyon, Susi sa Tagumpay,” “The Day of Distance Learning” and “Magaaral sa ika-21 na Siglo”, respectively. With the purpose of raising awareness on how the 21st Century Learners deal with the changes brought about by the pandemic, the events teach how they can be of great help to the society as Filipino youth and how they can enrich the value of education for themselves and for other people. D
USL Pres formally opens virtual foundation celebration BY DIANE PATTAGUAN USL President Rev. Fr. Renillo Sta. Ana, CICM officially opened the virtual foundation days as he talked about the importance of synergy and the role of technology in the new normal during his message in the Opening Ceremony of the 56th Founding Anniversary this February 9. With the theme: “USL @ 56: Moving in Synergy in the New Normal towards Mission and Excellence”, the university president emphasized character development and spiritual growth of individuals by highlighting an individual’s ethical cleanliness to-
wards learning new things during the full implementation of quarantine. “We should consider our ethical cleanliness and spiritual health,” Sta. Ana said. “The pandemic has changed many of our behaviors. Let us not waste this crisis time by just letting it go away without learning good lessons and getting out of it without becoming better persons,” he added. Aside from declaring the online foundation days open, Sta. Ana also reminded every Louisian of their role towards the current pandemic, which is to be united on the things they can do to pursue their mission through the proper use of technology
present in the society. “Technology is wonderful that it keeps us all connected and continues to live in real synergy. Technology is great but it is only as good as its users. Technology has no spirit of its own. It is the spirit that moves us out towards the others despite the limitations of this situation,” he further explained. What matters most, according to Sta. Ana is that students can be able to do holistic things during these challenging times in synergy with one another and without forgetting their true identity as Louisians. D
DENORMALIZE THE “NEW NORMAL” | PAGE 2
The threat of COVID-19 is still lurking around each corner, a concrete and immediate plan for a vaccination program is nowhere in sight, and the quality of life for countless families is still progressively becoming worse. These are the conditions that fade into the background when we delude ourselves into thinking that maybe we could make things work despite the challenges of the new “normal.” As we commemorate the foundation of our University, may we go back and contemplate on our original identity—as missionaries who are committed to facilitating the actualization of God’s Kingdom. We must always remind ourselves that the path that leads towards this mission is the path that points to social justice. As we are able to thrive even with the challenges posed by the pandemic, may we never forget that this is not the case for everyone else. And while it is indeed true that our efforts to adapt and overcome these restricting conditions are worthy of praise, may we never fall to the dangerous cliff of thinking that these extraordinary circumstances are something that can be normalized. A frog stuck in a boiling pot of water will naturally adjust its body temperature to cool itself down. Eventually, the creature will reach its limit and the water will inevitably rise to a lethal scalding point. As Louisians deservingly praise the efforts of those who try to adjust to an unnatural environment, may we also not forget to leap out. A community that recognizes that it is a part of something larger and responds to its social duty is a community whose foundation is worth celebrating. D
Literary ONLINE CLASSES, DIGITAL DREAMS
MENSAHE SA KALENDARYO
ALEYA MABBORANG
PARALLAG JAMES DARREL A.
Downtimes—here they come, life’s more than trying to cope In dire straits, we’re stuck albeit it’s not yet too late to hope Settling towards your monitor where one could virtually learn Through zoom as if we’re in a classroom, resilience must be discerned. Academic to eccentric—what a range, but the goal doesn’t change Not even when the connection crashes and deadlines are in constraint Carry on insomuch that slacking off better be not an option Engage in full swing before the prof ends the lecture session.
Sa bawat pagsilang nang araw Hindi nasukat ang ganitong saklaw Nagbago ang mga hudyat Sa internet ngayo’y umaakyat
Lying underneath the lively faces displayed on the screens Everyone is nothing but a weary and burdened educator and novice All irony, machine tryna be a human; humans tryna be machines Reasonably, devices are not just vices but then always at your service. New normal schooling is the trend, could students truly comprehend? In view of the fact that today’s world has a lot of rough edges Now trapped in a bubble, no wonder why all of us want to be enlightened Grateful to still grasp new things amidst this health crises.
USL@56: The New Moon DIANA MARIE CAGURANGAN The uninvited presence of the new normal amongst us, Brings challenges for the new way of life ahead of us. Going through twists and turns, we must face, Turning challenges into opportunities, let us embrace. Learning to cope when the going gets hard, USL has a driving force to continue moving forward. Together in solitude and accepting the challenge, USL has its ways to always provide excellence. Integration of learning modalities Brings school into our homes. With its range of options and resources, Teachers and students are not alone. To keep calm in a crisis and move in synergy, Pandemic or not, USL is always ready. The mission to withstand whatever may come, and whatever pandemic brings we shall overcome.
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O bakit ganito Sinusubok ng mga bagyo Na parang ninakaw ang mga anino Kilos bawat minuto, nabibilang dahil ito’y limitado Mga estudyanteng nakakandado sa kani-kaniyang tirahan Sa zoom o Gmeet na lamang bukas ang kasiyahan Sa recess, si klasmeyt ang hanap mong anino Ngayo’y sa asignatura– “uy tulungan mo naman ako rito” Anumang panahon, Si titser na patuloy ang araro Kaalaman ay napupuno parin sa sako Nahubog sa kanilang propesyon Turo’t leksyon nila kami makakaahon Mga paligsahang inaasam-asam Mga paligsahang nais mong salihan Hindi mawari sa supot ng kalungkutan Dahil sa pandemya ito’y nababalutan Gayunpaman, marami pang umaga Alkansya ay mapupuno ng sigla, Balang araw lilinya ang mga tala Dasal at hinaing mo’y naririnig ng bathala Hindi na bale, Ito ang aking mensahe: Ikaw ay Louisiano, Pinorma upang maging misyonaryo Dyos ang kasangga sa mga kalbaryo Anong datos man ang nasa kalendaryo
S PORTS
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Cancel...SPORTS? The coronavirus pandemic has forced the University to make significant adjustments in its celebration of the foundation days. A lot has changed and unfortunately, sporting events were one of them. It has become a part of the USL tradition to commemorate its foundation through showcasing different talents, skills and intellectual prowess. Aside from the late-night festivities, one event that makes everyone thrilled is sports. Sports in USL serve as wholesome entertainment for Louisians. It is the reason why we always anticipate the SEAITE-SABH rivalry in basketball, the upsets brought by the younger JHS, the domination of SHS in badminton or the surprising wins of SEAS and SHAS. It
makes a jump-packed gymnasium possible because of daring dance sports performances. The ear-splitting cheers from the crowd, trash-talking, pressure and many more are the things sports have been offering to us through the years. It is a place for healthy competition. It is where adrenaline is felt from the start of the tipoff until the final buzzer. But sadly, all of these things have been canceled in this year’s celebration. Last year was like the last dance for sports in the foundation days. Due to the threat posed by the new disease, the University was forced to cancel arguably the most highly-watched event during its annual occasion. Nevertheless, one has to ask himself: why cancel sports? We understand the general picture
COMICS
ART BY JEANIVIVA AGPALO
and the risk that lie if sports were to be done. However, sports do not depend solely on physical activities nor rely on face-to-face interactions. There are still ways we should have considered to still push through with it. Since everything seems to be held online, sports can be observed through online matches as well. We could have done e-sports like Mobile Legends or DOTA 2. If this is still not feasible, we can still pursue online sports tournaments like chess, scrabble and other board games that do not require body contact. What all of this means is that sports should not have been canceled due to a pandemic. The world itself showed us that sports could be executed in numerous ways and I know we could have done it too. What now then? An appeal will not make it in time so what we can do is to support this year’s foundation fully. What we have come to know is that sports are not to be limited by a pandemic or an unprecedented event. Therefore, we should not limit ourselves to showing passion and dedication to other events this year despite not having actual sporting events. What we do and how we react in sports should be reflected when supporting our fellow Louisians. There may be no more intense matches or people screaming “defense” for a while, but let us bear in mind that sports will always live on those who chose a competitive environment guided by the essence of sportsmanship. With that, we can turn away from the idea of canceling sports by celebrating it in a whole new game. D
WHY NOT? JAN MICHAEL VINCE M. OÑATE
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...if we could give other events a leeway to adapt to the changes brought by COVID-19, then why not do the same thing for sports?
This year’s University’s 56th Founding Anniversary is an obscure manifestation of one of the quarantine’s consequences—halting sports competitions in and out the campus. Nonetheless, this global pandemic could not surely bench the celebration of this year’s founding anniversary as everything goes virtual except for sports. Every aspect of games has been affected, from the athletes themselves to media coverage. However, if we could give other events a leeway to adapt to the changes brought by COVID-19, then why not do the same thing for sports? Just as other events could do online, so must too with sports. In fact, there are several online games that should still be considered and integrated. Online chess is one, not to mention that its governing body [FIDE] has already set guidelines and regulations that will cover all online chess competitions. In addition, game of the generals, scrabble, and word factory are no different precedents from online chess as they can all adapt to the digital competition. Campus’ inter-departmental competition is designed for everyone to have fun, recreate, and unwind from academic workloads. Celebrating the University’s most awaited event with its absence is a serious loss for sports enthusiasts. Competition is no longer the primordial purpose of sports, let alone its collateral benefits to good physical health. Conventional or virtual games could cultivate players’ virtues of sportsmanship, discipline and honesty in pursuit of fair play and winning by the rules. It helps the entire studentry to foster athletic consciousness. There are various feasible ways to undermine the stoppage of face-to-face sports competition. All we have to take is the will to adapt to these changes made by an unprecedented dilemma. Sports, therefore, have the right to question – why not? D