THE VARSITARIAN P.Y. 2026-2027 – ISSUE 1

TOMO XCIX / NO. 1 · IKA-29 NG AGOSTO, 2026 · ANG OPISYAL NA PAHAYAGAN NG UNIBERSIDAD NG SANTO TOMAS · Manila, Filipinas

MAHIGIT 10,000 FRESHMEN LUMAGOS SA ARKO Sa kabila ng ulan at suspensyon, patuloy ang pagpasok ng mga bagong Tomasino para sa AY 2026–2027 ► BASAHIN SA PAHINA 6

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Cardinal David:

Threat is not AI, but highly intelligent humans without wisdom CARDINAL DAVID PAHINA 2

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ANG PAGKAKAROON ng Baybayin sa keyboard options ng mga gumagamit ng Apple devices ay puwedeng tulay sa mas malawak na talakayan, ayon sa mga akademiko at tagasulong ng sinaunang sistema ng pagsulat. “It doesn’t do much to preserve history. What it can do is help push the conversation around culture, value, and how that leads to preservation,” wika ni Kristian Kabuay, na may tatlong taong karanasan sa pagiging Baybayin artist, sa panayam ng Varsitarian. “It can also force a conversation about our assumptions on writing, regionalism, and Filipino as the na-

tional language,” dagdag pa niya. Dagdag pa ni Kabuay, nakasalalay ang tunay preserbasyon ng Baybayin sa pagpapahalaga na makikita sa aktuwal na paggamit ng mga kabataan dito. Aniya, makatutulong ang mga digital na plataporma sa pagpapalaganap ng Baybayin ngunit hindi awtomatikong mapapangalagaan ang kasayBAYBAYIN SA IOS PAHINA 6

Stranded Aug. 17 monsoon flooding recounted NATATANGING ULAT ► PAHINA 5

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DIBUHO NI NATASHA AIZHEN B. ZAÑO

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THE VARSITARIAN • IKA-29 NG AGOSTO, 2026

BALITA

PATNUGOT: CARLO JOSE H. RUGA

Cardinal David:

Threat is not AI, but highly intelligent humans without wisdom

► Freshmen for Academic Year 2026-2027

enter the Arch of the Centuries as part of the Thomasian Welcome Rites on Thursday, Aug. 13. — PHOTO BY DANIELLE D. ATIENZA

By Alexandra S. Demaisip

THE GREATEST threat to humanity is not that machines are becoming more intelligent, but that human beings risk becoming “highly intelligent, but no longer wise,” Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David said during the Misa de Apertura, or the opening Mass of the new academic year, on Aug. 5. In his homily, David underscored the University’s role not only in teaching students how to think but also how to “discern.” “We tend to judge people by appearances, by headlines, by edited videos, by rumors, by algorithms that feed us only what we already like to hear,” he said. “The greatest danger today is not that machines are becoming intelligent; the greater danger is human beings become highly intelligent, but no longer wise. That is why we invoke the Holy Spirit at the beginning of each academic year,” David added. He said the highest form of intelligence is not measured by grades, academic publications, rankings or even artificial intelligence, but by the ability to discern truth from falsehood. Despite differences in people’s abilities and vocations, David said all forms of intelligence should be guided by what he called “spiritual intelligence.” “Hindi pare-pareho ang ating mga kakayahan, hindi pare-pareho ang ating calling, hindi rin pare-pareho ang mga paraan ng paglilingkod,” the Kalookan bishop said. (We do not all have the same abilities, we do not all share the same calling, and we do not all serve in the same way.) “A university becomes a beautiful community not because everyone is the same, but because each one brings a different gift,” he said. David said artificial intelligence is neither inherently good nor evil because every tool or technology must ultimately be directed by the human person. “Only moral and spiritual intelligence can answer the more important questions, ‘Should we do it? Will it serve the common good? Will it respect and uphold human dignity?’” he said. David, 67, has been bishop of Kalookan since 2016, clashing with the Duterte government over its bloody war on drugs, which victimized members of his flock. The Pampanga-born biblical scholar and Ateneo de Manila alumnus served as president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines from 2021 to 2025. He was elevated to the rank of cardinal by the late Pope Francis in 2024 and participated in the 2025 conclave that elected Pope Leo XIV, the first pope from the United States. As the new academic year began, David urged Thomasians to pray not only for intelligence but also for wisdom and discernment. Drawing from the gospel reading on the Beatitudes, he said such wisdom would make humans understand why Jesus Christ said the poor in spirit, the meek, and the persecuted are “blessed,” even if the modern world held the opposite view. “We begin the school year by praying not only, ‘Lord make us intelligent,’ but more importantly, ‘Lord make us truly wise, and truly discerning. Lord, allow us to see the world as you see it,’” David said. WITH REPORTS FROM TATYANA SABEERAH R. MARANAN

MAHIGIT 10,000 FRESHMEN LUMAGOS SA ARKO Sa kabila ng ulan at suspensyon, patuloy ang pagpasok ng mga bagong Thomasian para sa AY 2026–2027 Ni Czeantal Naomi P. Delos Santos

OPISYAL NANG tinanggap ng Unibersidad ang mahigit 10,000 na Tomasinong freshmen sa idinaos na Welcome Walk, Huwebes, Agosto 13. Sa kabila ng sunod-sunod na pagkaantala ng mga aktibidad para sa pagtanggap ng mga bagong Tomasino, nakapasok na ang mga freshman mula sa lahat ng yunit akademiko sa makasaysayang Arch of the Centuries. Binuksan ang mga aktibidad sa Thomasian Welcome Mass na pinangunahan nina Rektor P. Richard Ang, O.P., at P. Dexter Austria, O.P., direktor ng Facilities Management Office, na nagbigay ng homiliya. “As human beings, we are uniquely created by God, not by algorithm. Embrace your authenticity as a human being,” sabi ni Austria sa kaniyang homiliya. (Bilang mga tao, tayo ay mga natatanging nilalang na hinulma ng Panginoon, hindi ng algoritmo. Isa-

puso niyo ang inyong totoong pagkatao.) Sinundan ito ng morning session ng 2026 ROARientation at ng pagpasok sa Arch of the Centuries ng mga kolehiyo at fakultad na kabilang sa morning batch. Nakapasok din sa arko ang afternoon batch ng mga freshman, ngunit kinansela na ang Thomasian Welcome Mass at ROARientation sa hapon alinsunod sa deklarasyon ng Malacañang dahil sa matinding pag-ulan. Kabilang sa morning batch ang mga mag-aaral mula sa Alfredo M. Velayo - College of Accountancy, Faculty of Arts and Letters, College of Fine Arts and Design, College of Information and Computing Sciences, Conservatory of Music, College of Nursing, Faculty of Pharmacy, College of Rehabilitation Sciences, at Faculty of Medicine and Surgery. Ang afternoon batch naman ay binubuo ng mga mag-aaral mula sa College of Architecture, Faculty of Civil Law, College of Commerce and Business Administration, Ecclesiastical Faculties, College of Educa-

tion, Faculty of Canon Law, Faculty of Engineering, Institute of Physical Education and Athletics, Graduate School, Graduate School of Law, College of Science, at College of Tourism and Hospitality Management.

Batay sa tala ng Unibersidad, narito ang bilang ng mga bagong mag-aaral: • College of Commerce and Business Administration – 900 • College of Science – 852 • UST-AMV College of Accountancy – 660 • Faculty of Medicine and Surgery – 624 • College of Education – 611 • College of Tourism and Hospitality Management – 555 • College of Information and Computing Sciences – 512 • College of Fine Arts and Design – 502 • College of Architecture – 445 • College of Rehabilitation Sciences – 405

Revised student handbook out THE UNIVERSITY has released a revised student handbook that now expressly covers online conduct, details disciplinary processes and appeals, and complies with new laws on sexual harassment and “safe spaces.” Last revised in 2018, the handbook details academic and administrative processes, students’ rights and responsibilities, and rules on conduct and discipline. The bottom line for students is mixed, according to an analysis by the Varsitarian based on a comparison of the old and new handbooks. Students stand to benefit from improved disciplinary procedures, which give them more opportunities to mount a defense, but stringent regulation of student life, including membership in student organizations, remain. The 2026 Student Handbook expanded the procedures governing disciplinary actions through Policy, Procedure, and Standard (PPS) No. 1032, titled “Procedures on Disciplinary Actions.” It outlines the process for filing a complaint, issuing a notice to explain, giving students an opportunity to be

heard, evaluating evidence, issuing a notice of decision, and securing the approval and finality of decisions. There are separate sections on appeals, continuation of proceedings, academic status while a case is pending, and the issuance of certificates of good moral character, which were not specified in the 2018 handbook. Under the provision on continuation of proceedings, disciplinary proceedings may continue even if a complaint is withdrawn, and penalties apply even if decisions are under appeal. Moreover, students may be disqualified from holding posts in organizations because of unresolved disciplinary cases. ‘CODI,’ online offenses

The 2026 handbook also introduced a policy on gender-based sexual harassment pursuant to Republic Act No. 11313, or the Safe Spaces Act. It provides for the establishment of a Committee on Decorum and Investigation (CODI) required by law, and specifies procedures and penalties for

handling related cases. On fundraising, the 2026 handbook removed the restriction limiting recognized student organizations to one major fundraising event. It also extended the deadline for submitting a financial report after an activity to 30 days from 10 days. The list of offenses subject to disciplinary action is broader, and includes the following: • online harassment; • distributing indecent images; • serious digital disrespect; • unauthorized electronic materials; • falsified electronic credentials; • online publications; and • misconduct occurring through other digital means. Academic policies

The revised handbook introduced stricter requirements for credit transfers, capping credits from other institutions at 25% of the total curriculum and requiring STUDENT HANDBOOK PAHINA 3

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• College of Nursing – 246 • Graduate School – 321 • Conservatory of Music – 106 • Institute of Physical Education and Athletics – 115 • Faculty of Civil Law – 266 • Ecclesiastical Faculties – 131 • Graduate School of Law – 35 • Faculty of Pharmacy – 976 • Faculty of Engineering – 1,138 • Faculty of Arts and Letters – 1,251 ‘ROARientation’ sa hapon, naudlot

Halu-halong emosyon ang naramdaman ng ilang Tomasino sa biglaang pagkaantala ng ROARientation para sa afternoon batch. Nagpahayag ng pagkadismaya si Dehnies Garin, mula sa Faculty of Engineering, sa biglaang kanselasyon ng mga aktibidad. Sa kabila nito, nasasabik pa rin siya sa pagsisimula ng kanyang buhay-kolehiyo bilang isang Tomasino. “I’m excited to meet beautiful FRESHMEN PAHINA 7

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Acting VP for academics, 23 other officials named By Louisse Raye Shara C. Santos

THE UNIVERSITY has appointed 24 new officials to administrative and academic units, the Office of the Secretary General announced on Aug. 1. Prof. Patricia Empleo was appointed acting vice rector for academic affairs, replacing Prof. Cheryl Peralta, who had held the position since 2017. Empleo had served as the UST Alfredo M. Velayo – College of Accountancy dean since 2013. Ian Punsalan will serve as executive assistant at the Office of the Vice Rector for Academic Affairs. Asst. Prof. Fermin Yabut was UNIVERSITY OFFICIALS PAHINA 7

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THE VARSITARIAN • IKA-29 NG AGOSTO, 2026

BALITA

KATUWANG NA PATNUGOT: AMADOR DENZEL M. TESTON

Isko Moreno defends Fusion Alley food strip, vows ‘we will do better’ MANILA MAYOR Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso defended the continued operation of “Fusion Alley” amid complaints about noise and unsanitary conditions, but said the city could “do better” in addressing problems at the food strip during a media forum on Wednesday, July 29. “Tell them I’m really concerned about the plight of our students, because the idea is for you to have access to cheaper, cleaner, accessible food, since it’s surrounded by dormitories,” Domagoso said at Kapihan sa Manila in response to a question from the Varsitarian. Domagoso said he would shut down the popular food strip entirely if the complaints continued, but defended the initiative as an improvement over the previous setup, when vendors operated without regulation along sidewalks and streets near the university. “What puzzles me is, when they were scattered all over before, nobody complained,” he said. “When it got organized, then I found out—the ones complaining were the ones who lost their business extension [on the sidewalks],” he added. Domagoso imposed a “zero- vendor policy” when he returned to city hall in 2025, temporarily displacing street vendors. In September 2025, Domagoso allowed street food vendors to set up stalls on I. Delos Reyes Street near UST’s P. Noval gate. The strip became known as “Fusion Alley.” “So when I came in… [I said], ‘Isn’t it possible, which street can we give? What

DIBUHO NI MHYZELL DAYNE J. OBLEPIAS

[street] can we designate for a particular hour, a particular day, without inconveniencing everyone?’” Domagoso said. Domagoso stressed that Fusion Alley’s regulated setup was intended to protect student safety, citing the street’s closure to vehicles during operating hours. “That’s your safety—we shut down the road at that particular time so students can walk properly and safely. That’s the heart of it. That’s the intention,” he said. On Facebook, a barangay kagawad

(village council member), Ricky de Leon, urged Domagoso to act on the complaints and claimed Fusion Alley was in violation of city ordinances. “Hindi ko po hangad na balewalain ang pag-angat ng kabuhayan ng ating mga vendor, bagkus, bilib po ako sa kanila dahil po sa kanilang sipag at dedikasyon sa kanilang negosyo. Pero sa isang banda, mas makakabuti po kung maibabalanse ang lahat dahil may mga kabarangay po kami na lubos na naaapektuhan, o sabihin na natin

‘Show genuine love for others,’ urges Franciscan head on St. Dominic’s feast THE HEAD of the Philippine Franciscan province said the faithful should follow St. Dominic’s example by rejecting mere “performances of holiness” and expressing their faith through genuine love for others. Fr. Lino Gregorio Redoblado, O.F.M., minister provincial of the San Pedro Bautista Province, also urged Catholics to speak out against corruption, social injustice and misinformation, during the Mass for the Solemnity of St. Dominic de Guzman on Saturday, Aug. 8 at Santo Domingo Church, Quezon City. He said Dominic’s works “were not performances of holiness. They were expressions of love. Dominic was willing to be tired, hungry, uncomfortable, even rejected because people mattered more than his own comfort.” Like the founder of the Order of Preachers, the faithful must defend the truth when it is distorted by those in power, he said. “We cannot remain silent when truth is deliberately distorted by lies and misinformation,” he said, adding that “truth without love becomes harshness, while love without truth becomes compromise.”

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We cannot remain silent when truth is deliberately distorted by lies and misinformation.

► Fr. Lino Gregorio

Redoblado, O.F.M. — PHOTO BY JOACHIM NIGEL Z. TANGLAO

Reflecting on the Dominican motto “Contemplare et contemplata aliis tradere” (to contemplate and give to others the fruits of contemplation), Redoblado said authentic preaching must be rooted in prayer and knowledge of God. “St. Dominic challenges us: do not make yourself the message. Let Christ be the message. Do not simply preach the light, become the light. Make the gospel believable by the way you live,” he said. Redoblado concluded his homily by calling on Catholics to become credible witnesses who live

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Truth without love becomes harshness, while love without truth becomes compromise. out and spread the Gospel in their daily lives. “Our world does not simply need more eloquent preachers. It needs credible witnesses,” he said. St. Dominic founded the Order of Preachers in 1215 in Toulouse, France. His feast is traditionally celebrated by both Dominicans and Franciscans in recognition of the long-standing friendship between St. Dominic and St. Francis of Assisi. ENZO MIGUEL D. MEJIA WITH REPORTS FROM ALEXANDRA GABRIELLE C. MANSINEROS

na napeperwisyo, diyan po sa operasyon ng Fusion Alley,” he wrote on his page. (I do not wish to disregard the efforts to improve the livelihoods of our vendors. On the contrary, I admire them for their hard work and dedication to their businesses. However, it would be better if everything could be properly balanced, because there are residents in our barangay who are significantly affected—or, to put it plainly, inconvenienced—by the operations of Fusion Alley.)

A November 2025 story by the Varsitarian reported complaints, notably from students living in the area, as Fusion Alley operations increased foot traffic and noise pollution. Residents also complained of foul odor every morning from improperly disposed of wastewater. The mayor said I. Delos Reyes Street was flushed every morning, disputing complaints of bad smell coming from trash produced by street food vendors. “At night, I have it cleaned, and in the daytime I have it flushed out,” Domagoso said. He said the food hub had produced millionaires. “So it created an opportunity, business. All I ask of them, I always tell them, is that I want the street usable and passable in the morning—clean it up,” he said. On July 30, Domagoso told food stall vendors at “Fusion Alley” to maintain order and cleanliness at “Fusion Alley” during a dialogue at Manila City Hall. The meeting came a day after Domagoso’s response to noise and sanitation concerns at the popular food strip raised by a Varsitarian news reporter during a media forum on July 29. During the dialogue, Domagoso asked the vendors to properly dispose of cooking waste and garbage after operating hours. The mayor said that while he was happy that people were able to make a living by selling at Fusion Alley, vendors must maintain order and cleanliness. “Perhaps you are too noisy? There’s no [live] band there, right? Contain yourself,” Domagoso said in Filipino. “Just take good care of [the street]. Maintain it, clean up after yourselves,” he added. Domagoso said the visibility of police officers must be ensured, and that garbage should be removed from the street before sunrise.

Student hanbook ► MULA PAHINA 2

a minimum grade of 84%. Transferees must also submit a detailed portfolio containing course syllabi and completed assessments. Students shifting programs within the same academic unit must now submit endorsements from their academic adviser and guidance counselor. The handbook also specifies that the disqualifying limit of nine units of “unremoved” failing grades applies to General Education courses, including Physical Activities Toward Health and Fitness (PATHFIT) courses. No student is exempt from completing PATHFIT courses, although coursework may be adapted for students with additional needs. Filipino students with dual citizenship are required to take the National Service Training Program (NSTP), while international students and those who had completed vocational, associate or baccalaureate degrees are exempt. Theology credits may be transferred only if completed in a member-school of the Dominican Province of the Philippines. To qualify for honors, a student must have completed 75% of their academic units or hours in UST, adjusted downward from 76%. The new handbook also introduces the “Pope St. John Paul II Awards,” namely the Outstanding Achievement Award in Sports and the Arts and the Tradition of Excellence in Sports Award. While the 2018 handbook stated that the UST Graduate School followed a “different system” for academic honors, the 2026 edition incorporates the Graduate School’s

FUSION ALLEY PAHINA 11

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grading scales for academic, research and professional tracks. Name changes

Deans of faculties and colleges are now referred to as “academic unit heads,” while examinations are referred to as “assessment of learning.” Campus offices and services were reorganized into eight categories: • Student Affairs, Formation, and Engagement; • Academic Learning and Information Resources; • Health, Counseling and Wellness Services; • Admissions and Academic Records; • Information and Communications; • Information and Communications Technology; • Facilities, Safety and Campus Services; and • Spiritual Formation and Pastoral Services. The names of offices were updated. Safety and Security Services is now the Campus Safety and Security Office; the Legal Aid Clinic is now the Chief Justice Roberto Concepcion Legal Aid Clinic; UST Archives is now referred to as Archivo de la Universidad de Santo Tomas; and ID Printing is now ID Room and Identification Card Services. The former Counseling and Career Center was split into two offices: the Career Services and Placement Office and the Guidance and Counseling Center. The handbook also added offices and services including the UST Hospital, Thomasian Mental Health Responders and Nutrition Clinic, as well as campus offices for the UST Manila Annex in Santa Rosa, Laguna, and UST General Santos. J.L. AMPONGAN, P.E.D.C. BLANCO, T.S.R. MARANAN

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THE VARSITARIAN • IKA-29 NG AGOSTO, 2026

EDITORYAL AI, hamon sa awtentisidad ng mga akdang pampanitikan Alimpuyo FRENCHSHIELD SHAYNE G. DELOVIERES

EDITORYAL

SONA: Kapos sa solusyon at tugon KINILALA BILANG pinakamahabang State of the Nation Address (SONA) ang talumpati ni Pangulong Marcos Jr. noong Hulyo 27. Ngunit sa kabila nito, nananatiling kapos pa rin ang tugon sa pinakamabibigat na kontrobersiyang kinakaharap ng bansa ngayon. Mula sa mga hakbang sa ekonomiya at edukasyon hanggang sa mga programa para sa trabaho, enerhiya at imprastraktura, inilahad niya ang mga proyektong inilunsad ng administrasyon sa nakalipas na taon. Inilatag niya ang mga bagong programa at direksyong nais na ipagpatuloy sa nalalabing dalawang taon ng kanyang termino. Subalit ang pagbanggit sa mga problema ay malayo sa paglutas ng mga ito. Sa loob ng isang oras at 25 minuto, hindi kailangan ng bayan na marinig ang panibagong listahan ng mga proyektong umuusad ngunit mas makupad pa sa trapiko. Ang kailangan nito ay sagot—lalo’t higit ng pananagutan—para sa pinakamahalagang isyu na nararanasan nito. Kabilang sa maiinit na usaping dapat na bahagi ng kanyang ikalimang SONA ang hinggil sa impeachment trial laban sa pangalawang pangulo na si Sara Duterte, na nakaugat sa korupsiyon, pagwaldas ng public funds, pagbali sa tiwala ng publiko, at culpable violation ng Konstitusiyon. Ilan sa mga paratang ang umano’y maling paggamit ng confidential funds ng Office of the Vice President at Department of Education, kung saan nagsilbi si Sara bilang kalihim noong 2022 hanggang 2024. Hindi maipagkakaila na isa ito sa pinakamalalaking usaping pampolitika na kinakaharap ng bansa na direktang humahamon sa kredibilidad ng mga sangay at institusyon ng pamahalaan.

Hindi rin binigyang-pansin ni Marcos ang umuusad na kaso laban sa dating pangulo na si Rodrigo Duterte sa International Criminal Court para sa crimes against humanity na umiral noong kasagsagan ng kanyang kampanya kontro-droga. Dumarami ang mga maling impormasyon na ku-

Sa loob ng isang oras at 25 minuto, hindi kailangan ng bayan na marinig ang panibagong listahan ng mga proyektong umuusad ngunit mas makupad pa sa trapiko. Ang kailangan nito ay sagot—lalo’t higit ng pananagutan—para sa pinakamahalagang isyu na nararanasan nito.

makalat ukol sa kasong ito, lalo na sa kalusugan ng dating pangulo. Subalit hindi rin lubusang maituturing na walang ipinahayag ang presidente tungkol sa mga umiigting na kontrobersya. Iginiit niya ang pangangailangang managot

ng mga sangkot sa katiwalian. Bagaman binanggit na patong-patong na kasong ihahain laban sa kanyang pinsan at dating House speaker na si Martin Romualdez, higit sanang ginamit ni Marcos ang kanyang ikalimang SONA upang isa-isahin ang mga tiwaling opisyal na sangkot sa maanomalyang flood-control project. Sa halip na manatili sa pangakong pananagutin ang mga sangkot, kailangan ng publiko ang malinaw na mga pangalan, ebidensiya at kongkretong hakbang upang matiyak na hindi mauuwi sa limot ang kontrobersyang nagbunga ng mga panawagan at malawakang protesta sa lansangan. Noong kaniyang SONA noong 2025, mariing sinabi ni Marcos, “Mahiya naman kayo!” habang tinutuligsa ang mga bigong flood-control projects at ang mga opisyal na umano’y kumikita mula sa mga ito. Ngunit higit pa sa panawagan ng hiya ang kailangan ng bansa. Kung noon ay nanawagan ang pangulo ng kahihiyan, makalipas ang isang taon, dapat ay mayroon nang pananagutan. Walang saysay ang anumang pangako ng pagkilos kung hindi ito mauuwi sa aktuwal na imbestigasyon, pagsasampa ng kaso, at pagpapataw ng kaparusahan sa lahat ng mga mapatutunayang tiwaling opisyal. Habang patuloy na lumulubog ang mga komunidad sa paulit-ulit na pagbaha, hindi na dapat pang malunod ang Pilipinas sa mga pangakong nananatili lamang sa salita. Hindi na hiya ang hinihingi ng bayan— kundi hustisya at pananagutan. Binuksan din ni Marcos ang usapin hinggil sa “Pax Silica” o ang US-led initiative na mungkahing pagpapatayo ng mga AI industrial hub sa bansa. Binigyang-diin EDITORYAL PAHINA 7

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HABANG UMUUSBONG ang paggamit ng artificial intelligence (AI) upang gayahin ang paraan ng tao sa pagsusulat, unti-unti ring lumalabo ang guhit sa pagitan ng akdang nilikha ng tao at tekstong binuo ng makina. Noong Hulyo, umani ng batikos ang “The Serpent and the Grove” ng Caribbean writer na si Jamir Nazir dahil sa umano’y bakas ng AI sa akda. Nagwagi ito ng pangkalahatang gantimpala sa 2026 Commonwealth Short Story Prize, isang internasyonal na patimpalak para sa mga manunulat mula sa mga dating bansa na pumasailalim sa kolonyal na pagkontrol ng Inglatera tulad ng Canada at Malta, Cyprus, United Kingdom, at ilang bansa sa Africa, Caribbean, Pacific, at Asya. Dahil dito, nahaharap sa hamon ng pagbalanse sa integridad ng kompetisyon at sa lehitimong paggamit ng AI bilang kasangkapan sa proseso ng pagsulat ang ilang patimpalak pampanitikan sa Pilipinas. Isa sa mga nanguna sa pagpapatupad ng AI-verification policy ang F. Sionil Jose Young Writers Awards na itinatag ng mga anak ng Pambansang Alagad ng Sining sa Literatura at dating patnugot ng Varsitarian na si F. Sionil Jose. Ayon kay Sarge Lacuesta, isang premyadong manunulat at hurado ng naturang patimpalak, tuluyang binabago ng AI ang proseso ng malikhaing pagsulat. “As recent controversies surrounding the suspected use of AI in published books and stories have proven, the use of generative AI in creative writing poses a threat to the human craft of writing,” ani Lacuesta sa panayam ng Varsitarian. Ang hamong ito ang nagtulak sa patimpalak upaALIMPUYO PAHINA 6

Paglamon sa libro’t ideya Justified JUSTIN JACOB S. URAG

MAIKUKUMPARA ANG pagpapakain ng milyon-milyong mga aklat sa artificial intelligence (AI) sa pagbibigay ng aklat sa isang tao upang siya’y matutong magsulat, ayon kay William Alsup, ang hukom na namuno ng makasaysayang Bartz v. Anthropic. Sa isang copyright class action suit sa United States, inakusahan ng mga manunulat na sina Andrea Bartz, Charles Graeber, at Kirk Johnson ang kumpanyang Anthropic sa ilegal na paggamit ng mga libro–kabilang ang mga akda nina Bartz–upang sanayin ang large language model (LLM) nito na mas kilala bilang Claude. Bukod sa Claude, ang Anthropic ay nakatuon din sa pananaliksik ng AI at ang kaligtasan sa paggamit nito. Itinatag ng mga dating empleyado ng OpenAI, ang kumpanya sa likod ng ChatGPT, ang Anthropic noong 2021. Ilegal ang paggamit sa mga libro dahil nakalap ito ng Anthropic mula sa shadow libraries–o ilegal na aklatang online–kung kaya’t walang pahintulot ang kumpanya sa mga may-akda na gamitin ito ayon sa fair use na panuntunan. Hindi palaisipan ang motibo ng Anthropic sa likod nito dahil higit na mas nakakamura ang pagpipirata ng mga libro kumpara sa mano-manong pagbili ng mga pamagat. Nagkasundo sa huli ang dalawang kampo na magJUSTIFIED PAHINA 10

FOUNDED JANUARY 16, 1928 Amanda Luella A. Rivera Punong Patnugot Frenchshield Shayne G. Delovieres Tagapamahalang Patnugot Billy Andrei P. Ramos Kawaksing Patnugot Carlo Jose H. Ruga Patnugot sa Balita Amador Denzel M. Teston Katuwang na Patnugot sa Balita Lilah Mikaela S. Paredes Patnugot sa Pampalakasan Luis Angelo N. Palma Patnugot sa Natatanging Ulat Yuvshenka Andrea R. Osea Tagapag-ugnay ng Pintig Justin Jacob S. Urag Tumatayong Patnugot sa Tampok Marielle F. Pesa Patnugot sa Agham at Teknolohiya Kirsten Therese C. Barrameda Panugot sa Mulinyo Ashley Valkyrie E. Bueno Tumatayong Panugot sa Panitikan Aidan Raphael F. Caluyo Patnugot sa Dibuho Mhyzell Dayne J. Oblepias Katuwang na Patnugot sa Dibuho Djenhard Yreneo Raphael Y. Sapanhila Patnugot sa Retrato Jed William V. Gocatek Patnugot ng Pag-aanyo

Balita Jed Renfred L. Ampongan, Paolo Emmanuel D.C. Blanco, Czeantal Naomi P. Delos Santos, Alexandra S. Demaisip, Yuahn Zachary B. Guilas, Tatyana Sabeerah R. Marananan, Louisse Raye Shara C. Santos Pampalakasan Charles Martin A. Manalang, Kurt Russel Vincent I. Miranda, Jay-Z V. Perez, Clyde Leanne M. Salamatin, Allanee Raye C. Valeriano Natatanging Ulat Nyl R. Dadiz, Ashley Madeleine D. Lampa, Mikaela Angela C. Villacorta Tampok Elihoenai Hazael B. Cortez, Alejandro Mari C. Eusebio, Phoebe Elaine B. Pua Pintig Bruce L. Buenaventura, Alexandra Gabrielle C. Mansineros, Enzo Miguel D. Mejia Filipino Dan Cedric V. Latasa, James Maverick R. Talavera Agham at Teknolohiya Bernadette E. Alpas, Marigela Isabel R. Cirio, Regis Avalo Jophiel L. Lim Mulinyo Lianne Therese G. Espiritu, Inah Denise A. Manansala, Rhamiel Mae T. Vicente Panitikan Elizabeth Joy C. Castro, Charlize Ann D. Lavastida, Psalmuel D. Reyes, Prince Cassel O. Trono

Dibuho Kathryn Grace S. Enriquez, Allana Elaine J. Libunao, Rich Harry A. Marbella, Arlene F. Turla, Natasha Aizhen B. Zaño Potograpiya Danielle D. Atienza, Rogina Cassandra G. Baltazar, Nadine T. Felismino, Jerick Marc Laurence C. Grimaldo, Ethan Joshua Nikholai F. Guisama, Divina Eloisa P. Meguines, Mickaela Jamylle C. Sison, Joachim Nigel Z. Tanglao, Vio Neiro M. Villaescusa Kawani sa Patnugot Joshua Emmanuel E. Camacho

Felipe F. Salvosa II Katuwang na Tagapayo

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Joselito B. Zulueta, Ph.D. Tagapayo

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THE VARSITARIAN • IKA-29 NG AGOSTO, 2026

NATATANGING ULAT

PATNUGOT: LUIS ANGELO N. PALMA

STRANDED

5

Aug. 17 monsoon flooding recounted WHEN RELENTLESS monsoon rains inundated Manila on Aug. 17, thousands of Thomasians found themselves stranded inside campus buildings, some for more than 12 hours, as floodwaters rose to knee-to-waist level in parts of the University. For students who had already traveled to UST before classes were suspended, the day became a prolonged wait for the rain to subside and for roads to become passable so they could go back home. What had once been stories of UST flooding shared by alumni became a firsthand experience for students. “Late suspensions like these put students’ lives in danger,” Raven Khaysha Esguerra, a first-year behavioral science student, told the Varsitarian. Esguerra, who lives in a dormitory just a three-minute walk from Gate 11, was stranded inside the Quadricentennial Pavilion (QPav) for more than 10 hours. “It was the first time I experienced something like that, and somehow fear struck me that I might not be able to get back to my dorm safe and sound,” she said. The Manila city government had suspended classes from kindergarten to senior high school on the evening of Aug. 16 due to expected intermittent to heavy rainfall from the southwest monsoon, or habagat. Shortly after 10:30 a.m. the following day, Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso ordered the suspension of onsite classes at all levels effective at noon, upon the recommendation of the Manila City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Department. The University later suspended classes at all levels and office work for the rest of the day and advised those already on campus to remain inside their buildings or seek shelter at the QPav and Tan Yan Kee (TYK) Student Center. By then, however, floodwater had already entered the campus. Several pathways were submerged to gutter depth at about 11 a.m., according to Assoc. Prof. Juliano Parena, director of Campus Safety and Security, while water in some areas eventually reached knee-to-waist level. For pharmacy sophomore Christine Kelly Dayrit, a daily commuter from Malabon, traveling to UST despite the heavy rain had already made her uneasy. “It was scary knowing you had to put your life at risk just to go to school, to learn only for the class to be suspended a few hours later,” Dayrit said. Dayrit said she had already experienced three instances in which a late suspension left her stranded on campus. On Aug. 17, she remained inside the Main Building until 10 p.m. “Hindi worth it para sa ‘kin pumunta pa ng campus kapag alam kong malakas na ang ulan,” she said. “Pero not everyone is privileged enough to miss a day in school.” (It is not worth it for me to go to campus when I already know the rain is heavy. But not everyone is privileged enough to miss a day in school.) Dayrit said the possibility that absences and missed activities could affect her academic standing was among the

► The Arch of the Centuries and the

Benavides Monument under flood. — PHOTOS BY JOACHIM NIGEL Z. TANGLAO

reasons she still went to class despite the weather. Inside the campus, professors, student leaders, and volunteers helped students remain in their buildings. Dayrit also received doxycycline from the Faculty of Pharmacy as a precaution against leptospirosis. At the QPav, first-year communication student Mianne Fajardo, a commuter from Quezon City, had arrived at UST at about 6:50 a.m. She planned to leave after classes were suspended but remained stranded until nearly 11 p.m. as conditions outside worsened. “I wasn’t really at ease with the thought na mag-oovernight ako inside the school,” Fajardo told the Varsitarian. “And that’s where I felt most of my pentup frustration and disappointment talaga. Kasi siyempre, pagod na pagod ako and [nakakatakot] bumiyahe ng gabi, and especially that late talaga.” (I wasn’t really at ease with the thought that I might have to stay overnight inside the school. And that’s where I felt most of my pentup frustration and disappointment. Of course, I was already very tired, and it was frightening to travel at night, especially that late.) At 9 p.m., the University announced that vehicles already parked at the MultiDeck Carpark would be exempted from overnight parking fees, while other vehicles could park for free, subject to slot availability. Waters approach parish church

Hospitality management senior Lauren Chloe Pinauin was attending Mass for the feast of St. Hyacinth, her college’s patron saint, at the Santísimo Rosario Parish when she noticed floodwater reaching the entrance during the offertory. By the end of the Mass, the water had risen to ankle-to-knee level at the entrance, forcing students to remain inside the church. “I felt anxious and scared kasi it was still raining no’ng nakita namin ‘yong baha,” Pinauin said. “Medyo frustrating din kasi mahirap makakuha ng signal sa chapel so medyo nahirapan ako i-contact family ko para i-update sila kung ano na situation sa UST.” (I felt anxious and scared because it was still raining when we saw the flood. It was also frustrating because it was difficult to get a signal inside the chapel, so I had trouble contacting my family to update them on the situation at UST.) Pinauin, a commuter from Quezon City, remained stranded at the parish for roughly 12 hours before leaving at about 10:40 p.m. College of Tourism and Hospitality Management Student Council President Kenneth Benito said student leaders, Pax Romana, and other organizations stayed with students in the parish for nearly 11 hours. He urged Thomasians frustrated over

► Students inside the campus avoid wading floodwaters by staying on unflooded areas. — PHOTOS BY JERICK MARC LAURENCE C. GRIMALDO (TOP) AND MICKAELA JAMYLLE C. SISON (BOTTOM)

the response to direct their anger at those responsible for class suspensions and flood-control decisions rather than at student volunteers who were themselves stranded. “Wala sa kanila ang power para mag-suspend ng klase. Wala sa kanila ang flood control budget ng Maynila. Hindi nila hawak ang panahon o ang bilis ng pagtaas ng tubig,” Benito said. (They do not have the power to suspend classes. They do not control Manila’s flood-control budget. They do not control the weather or how quickly the water rises.) “Valid ang galit niyo pero huwag natin ibuhos sa kanila ‘yong mga taong kasama rin nating nalunod sa kapabayaan ng iba,” he added. (Your anger is valid, but let us not direct it at the people who were also caught in the flooding caused by the negligence of others.) First-year tourism management student Ryza May Tulin spent eight hours at

► A part of the

UST block letters has fallen over following heavy rains and winds at the Plaza Mayor on Monday, Aug. 17. — PHOTO BY JERICK MARC LAURENCE C. GRIMALDO

the parish before being transferred to the Buenaventura Garcia Paredes, O.P. Building at 6 p.m., where she stayed until 6 a.m. the following day. “We also did not know how long we would have to stay there or kung kailan kami makakaalis,” Tulin said. “Nakakatakot din kasi we were unsure about what would happen next.” (We also did not know how long we would have to stay there or when we would be able to leave. It was frightening because we were unsure about what would happen next.) Students mobilize

As thousands waited for floodwaters to recede, student councils and organizations mobilized alongside University personnel to distribute food and medicine, monitor flood levels, and help move stranded students to safer areas. Artlets Student Council President Jenielle Elisha Butacan said much of the immediate response was sustained by student volunteers. “Almost every single facet of the response team yesterday was possible because of the STUDENTS na nag-volunteer for their community,” Butacan wrote in a Facebook post on Aug. 18. (Almost every single facet of the response team yesterday was possible because of the students

who volunteered for their community.) Students from the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery and the Faculty of Pharmacy helped provide medication, while security personnel managed exits, and volunteers distributed food and transported students. The CSC, Pax Romana, and Red Cross Youth Council (RCYC) were among the student organizations that coordinated assistance. According to NSTP first-aid supervisor Tobey Fhar Isaac Calayo, the RCYC launched a live flood-monitoring sheet at 12:09 p.m., through which students could report flood levels and medical responders could submit situation updates from different parts of the campus. At about 4 p.m., RCYC Central and UST Medical Missions Inc. opened a virtual medical station and e-consultation platform. “August 17 showed us what an existing system, strengthened by experience and cooperation, could become in just 22 minutes when circumstances demanded more from it,” Calayo said in an Aug. 19 Facebook post. The UST Quick Response Team also used rescue boats and trucks to evacuate STRANDED PAHINA 11

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6–7

THE VARSITAR

UsapangUste

Alimpuyo ► MULA PAHINA 4 ng ilunsad ang bagong probisyon na kailangang isumite ng mga kalahok ang kanilang burador, history ng mga rebisyon, mga tala ng pananaliksik at ebidensya na nagpapakita ng pagka-may-akda. Pinapatunayan ng bagong polisiya na hindi tunay na makapagbibigay-halaga ang patimpalak sa panitikan kung hindi nito kayang tukuyin kung sino ang tunay na may-akda. Sa gitna ng pag-usbong ng kaliwa’t kanang argumento hinggil sa pagpapatupad ng polisiya sa paggamit ng AI, isang mahalagang tanong ang dapat na timbangin ng mga hurado: anong antas ng pagsusuri ang kaya nilang maarok upang masigurado na ang mga akdang isinumite ay hindi lamang produkto ng isang makina? Sa kabilang banda, ang kawalan ng Palanca ng malinaw na pamantayan ay maaaring magdulot ng iba’t ibang interpretasyon sa mga kalahok at hurado hinggil sa pagitan ng tulong-teknolohikal at paggawa mismo ng isang akda. “The Palanca Award has no official position yet regarding the use of AI in submissions,” ani Romulo Jr. Baquiran, hurado sa Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards at propesor sa malikhaing pagsulat ng Unibersidad ng Pilipinas Diliman. “The writers themselves are torn between its complete ban and using the AI assist to improve the work.” Importante na itakda ng mga organisasyon kung kanilang pinahihintulutan ang AI sa brainstorming, pag-eedit, pagsasalin, o pagbuo ng teksto. At kung kinakailangan, dapat pagnilayan ang pagtatakda kung anong uri at antas ng paggamit nito ang maituturing na paglabag. At kung kinakailangan, maaaring hilingin sa mga kalahok na lagdaan ang isang declaration form na nagpapatunay sa saklaw ng kanilang paggamit ng AI. Sa ganitong pagkakataon, hindi na lamang simpleng tanong na “AI ba o hindi?” ang dapat na maging malinaw. Mas mahalagang siyasatin kung nasaan ang kamay, isip, karanasan, at tinig ng manunulat sa likod ng lahat ng ito. “Palanca should say on its rules that AI generated stories, poetry, or script can be disqualified if found out,” dagdag pa ni Baquiran. Subalit maituturing na hamon para sa mga hurado ang pagiging mapanuri sa AI na gawa. Bagama’t maaaring makatulong ang mga ito bilang panimulang hakbang sa pagsusuri, hindi sapat ang resulta ng AI detector tools upang maging tanging batayan sa pagdiskuwalipika ng isang akda. Sa huli, nakasalalay pa rin sa mga hurado ang pagkilatis ng isang akda kung ito ba ay nagpapakita ng malikhaing inobasyon at ideya. Bagaman maituturing na dagdag trabaho, masusukat ang kanilang kakayahan na timbangin ang mga ebidensiyang magpapatunay sa pagiging orihinal nito. Sila lamang din ang makapagbibgay ng desisyon kung kanilang pahihintulutan na mag-uwi ng gantimpala ang lahok sa kabila ng kaalamang gumamit ng AI ang manunulat sa proseso ng pagbuo nito. Para sa kilalang manunulat na si Butch Dalisay, walang saysay kung tuluyang ipagbabawal ang AI. Sa column na inilabas niya noong ika-10 ng Agosto, inamin niyang “we’ll use AI— to see what it does and what we can do differently or better,” sa kanyang klase sa malikhaing pagsulat. Marahil ito na rin ang kailangang tanggapin ng mga manunulat. Hindi na dapat pang ipagbawal ang paggamit ng AI dahil umiiral na ito sa arawaraw na buhay. Kailangan lang itong gamitin at bantayan kung paano natin malalampasan ang taglay nitong kakayahan bilang kasangkapan.

FIL

Ang Departamento ng Filipino sa UST sa nakalipas na panahon BAGO TULUYANG umusbong ang Departamento ng Filipino sa UST, may ilang taon din itong hindi napagtuunan ng pansin. Sa artikulo ng Varsitarian na inilabas noong ika-31 ng Agosto 2000, “Wikang Filipino, patuloy na naluluoy sa UST,” iminungkahi na ibalik ang Departamento ng Filipino sapagkat naging sanhi ito ng paglisan ng mga manunulat at eksperto sa panitikan. Pinagsama ang mga wikang Ingles, Espanyol, at Filipino sa ilalim ng Department of Language noong 1979 upang makatipid. Itinatag ng manunulat at lingguwistiko na si Jose Villa Panganiban, tagapagtatag din ng Varsitarian, ang

Kagawaran ng Tagalog noong 1938 sa Unibersidad. Noong 1967, kinilala ito bilang Kagawaran ng Pilipino. Ayon sa noo’y tagapangulo ng Department of Language na si Johanna Hashim, ang laganap na paggamit ng “Taglish” at “Engalog” ay nakaapekto sa kalidad ng wika at ang setup ng pinagisang departamento na nakaangkla sa globalization trend. Lumiham si Hashim sa patnugot ng Varsitarian. Mariin niyang tinutulan ang artikulo at humingi ng kapatawaran sa publikasyon. Pagtuntong ng 2000s, tuluyang nagkaroon ng Departamento ng Filipino at inilagak ito sa Kolehiyo ng Edukasyon. DAN CEDRIC V. LATASA

tomasino siya

DIBUHO NI ALLANA ELAINE J. LIBUNAO

Norberto Romualdez Ang pamana niya sa wika at batas

HINDI LAMANG mga batas ang pinanday ng mambabatas at dalubwika na si Norberto Romualdez, kundi maging ang mga ambag sa pag-aaral at pagpapaunlad ng mga katutubong wika sa bansa. Bunga ng kanyang mga pananaliksik at akda, kinikilala si Romuáldez bilang tagapagtatag ng modernong lingguwistika sa Filipinas. Siya ang may-akda ng “Bisayan Grammar and Notes on Bisayan Rhetoric and Poetic and Filipino Dialectology,” isang aklat na nagsusuri sa gramatika at retorika ng mga wikang katutubo na nailimbag noong 1908. Inilathala ni Romualdez ang “Philippine Orthography,” na tumatalakay sa isang sistema ng pagsulat para sa mga katutubong wika sa bansa. Katulong ang kapuwa Tomasinong manunulat na si Ignacio

Baybayin sa iOS ► MULA PAHINA 1

sayan nito hangga’t hindi natutugunan ang mga ugat na panlipunan at pampulitika. “Whether it’s websites, social media, apps, they help a little, but having a reckoning of the socio‑political system is much more critical,” wika ni Kabuay. Iginiit ng Baybayin artist na limitado ang magiging saklaw ng update dahil sa maliit na populasyon ng iOS users sa bansa. Batay sa datos ng Statcounter Global Stats mula Hulyo 2025 hanggang Hulyo 2026, nangunguna ang Android sa smartphone operating system market sa Pilipinas na may 87.67% market share, kumpara sa 12.32% ng iOS.

tomassalitaan

Kandíli png. ► Norberto Romualdez birthcente-

nary commemorative stamp.

Villamor, isinagawa nila ang kauna-unahang pananaliksik hinggil sa mga dokumentong Baybayin na nasa TOMASINO SIYA PAHINA 8

Ayon kay Jose Enage, tagapangulo ng grupong Baybayin Buhayin, makatutulong ang bagong tampok sa pagpapakilala ng Baybayin ngunit maaaring malimitahan ang paglaganap dahil eksklusibo ito sa operating system ng Apple. “Kung mas mapalaganap sa Gen Z, dapat gawin [itong] buong bukas sa lahat ng tao at ‘di lang sa iPhone,” giit ni Enage. Inihayag ni Prop. Wennielyn Fajilan, tagapangulo ng UST Sentro sa Salin at Araling Salin, na hindi sapat ang ganitong hakbang kung hindi itinuturo ang wastong paggamit ng Baybayin. “Dapat ituro kung paano gamitin kasi iba siya. So ito bang software ay may kasamang tutorial on how to write? Kasi meron siyang sarili niyang system hindi lang siya basta writing

►

Pagkupkop o pangangalaga sa mga nangangailangan ng tulong. HALIMBAWA

Namumukod-tangi ang kandíli ni Nuel sa mga asong lansangan. MGA SANGGUNIAN “Diksyunaryo-Tesauro Pilipino-Ingles“ ni Jose Villa Panganiban at Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino

template na alam mo,” aniya. Naniniwala si Fajilan na may hatid na pagkilala sa internasyonal na antas ang pagiging bahagi ng Baybayin sa operating system ng iOS at posibleng makonsidera bilang active writing system sa halip na manatili bilang sinaunang sistema. “Natutuwa tayo kasi sumasabay tayo sa panahon, nabibigyan ng pansin ‘yong mga ganitong cultural heritage natin at mas nagkakaroon ng oportunidad para mas maraming makagamit ng ating ancient writing system,” wika niya. Nakatakdang ilabas ng Apple ang bagong tampok sa Setyembre bilang bahagi ng iOS update. Inihayag ito sa Worldwide Developers Conference 2026 noong Hunyo. Sa paglabas ng update, maaari nang magpadala ng messages gamit ang Baybayin.

Noong Hulyo, inilunsad ng App Store ang language-learning app na Baybayin Ancient Script na available para sa iPhone at iPad. Nakatuon ang app sa pagsasanay sa pagsusulat, pagsasalin at pagbigkas ng sinaunang sistema ng pagsulat. Nakasaad sa House Bill 1022 o ang National Writing System Act ang layong pagkilala sa Baybayin bilang pambansang sistema ng pagsulat, na inaprubahan sa Kongreso noong 2018. Noong Mayo, naaprubahan sa third o final reading ng mababang kapulungan ng Kongreso ang Philippine Indigenous and Traditional Writing Systems Act. Layunin ng panukalang batas na isama sa edukasyon ang pagtuturo ng mga sinauna at katutubong sistema ng pagsulat, kabilang ang Baybayin. JAMES MAVERICK R. TALAVERA

LIPINO

RIAN • IKA-29 AGOSTO, 2026

‘Malalansang salita’

Editoryal ► MULA PAHINA 4

Kultura ng karahasan, laganap na sa online platforms BAHAGI NA ng kulturang Pilipino ang karahasan dahil sa tuluyang pagkasanay ng lipunan dito, ayon sa isang paring aktibista at dating manunulat ng Varsitarian. Para kay Fr. Albert “Paring Bert” Alejo, hindi na lamang pisikal na pananakit ang anyo ng karahasan dahil nakikita na rin ito sa online platform. “Itong karahasan ay nagiging kultura na at ‘di lang ito dahas ng bala kundi marami pang iba. Pati bullying, cybercrime at cyberbullying,” ani Alejo sa isang talakayan. “Hindi lang tayo mayroong krisis sa ekonomiya. May krisis tayo sa kultura, at isang [aspekto] diyan ay krisis sa paggamit ng salita,” aniya. Maaaring “patayin” o “salaulain” ang wika sa pamamagitan ng paggamit nito upang manakit, manakot, o magpalaganap ng karahasan, ani Alejo. Ibinahagi niya ang kaniyang tulang “Salot” bilang tugon sa tinuran niyang krisis. “Lumalalâ ang salot sa kirót na dulot ng malalansáng salita,” wika ni Alejo sa unang bahagi ng akda. Matagal nang tinatalakay ni Alejo sa kaniyang panulat ang pagkasanay ng lipunan sa karahasan.

‘‘

Hindi lang sa isang tao [ang] natututong pumatay kundi buong lipunan na pumapalakpak, sumasaludo sa mga pumapatay at nag-uutos pumatay—may dugo rin sa kamay Fr. Albert “Paring Bert” Alejo ► Fr. Albert “Paring Bert” Alejo — RETRATO NI ROGINA CASSANDRA G. BALTAZAR

Noong 1993, inilathala niya ang aklat na “Sanayan lang ang Pagpatay,” na nagpapakitang nagiging bahagi ng lipunan ang karahasan kapag ipinagwawalang-bahala nito ang kaliwa’t kanang krimen. “Hindi lang sa isang tao [ang]

natututong pumatay kundi buong lipunan na pumapalakpak, sumasaludo sa mga pumapatay at nag-uutos pumatay—may dugo rin sa kamay,” ani Alejo sa panayam ng Varsitarian. “At dahil sa mediatization, trivialization, routinization ng violence,

SA ISANG THEOLOGICAL FORUM NG GRUPONG “KINGDOM KEEPERS”

we get accustomed to that,” dagdag pa niya. Naniniwala si Alejo na napapanahon ang kaniyang akda dulot ng mga karahasan na nangyari sa bansa ‘MALALANSANG SALITA’ PAHINA 9

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Freshmen ► MULA PAHINA 2

CINEMALAYA 22

‘Tirik’ confronts EJK through confession, faith MAY-I GUIA Padila’s full-length debut, “Tirik” (To Set Upright), transforms the road thriller into a meditation on sin and Christian solidarity, using the Sacrament of Reconciliation to confront drug war killings. The film follows Fr. Bert (Rocco Nacino), a weary priest forced into a desperate escape after surviving an assassination attempt alongside taxi driver Santos (Floyd Tena) during what was supposed to be a funeral visit. Padilla transforms the taxi from a mere vehicle into a moving confessional, where fear, guilt and hope unfold through restrained dialogue. “Tirik” grounds its narrative in the Christian belief that God is the author of life, framing every act of violence as a rejection of human dignity. The film anchors itself in the sanctity of life, reflected in Fr. Bert’s assertion that the evils of illegal drugs and extrajudicial killings or EJKs cannot be reduced to a single dimension. Rather than portraying Fr. Bert as a priest with unquestionable moral authority, Padilla depicts him as a man whose faith and discernment are continually tested by the tensions between justice and compassion. Fr. Bert’s decision to stand with victims of EJKs reframes priesthood as a prophetic vocation that extends beyond the altar and the walls of the Church. The film reaches its theological center through Fr. Bert’s conversation with Fr. Jess (Glenn Sevilla Mas), presenting Christian discipleship as the

people and meet the warm Thomasian life,” giit niya. (Nasasabik akong makilala ang mga magagandang tao at maranasan ang mainit na buhay Tomasino.) Lubos namang nagpapasalamat si Dazzle Panganiban mula sa Faculty of Civil Law dahil natuloy pa rin ang mga aktibidad matapos ang sunod-sunod nitong pagkansela. “Very thankful kasi natuloy din [ang Welcome Walk] despite what’s happening, and I do believe that because of the Thomasian spirit, nandon pa rin ‘yung persistence kahit ganito

University officials ► MULA PAHINA 2

► Stills from the

film ‘Tirik’

— RETRIEVED FROM THE CINEMALAYA WEBSITE

act of carrying the burdens of those who suffer and, ultimately, recognizing the dignity of every human life. Throughout the film, Santos gradually sheds his hardened exterior, emerging as a man haunted by violence but longing for peace. His simple vision of heaven parallels Fr. Bert’s. Both imagine heaven as a gentle light, revealing how the two men seek the same redemption despite carrying different wounds. In its final moments, “Tirik” transforms the simple act of lighting

a candle for the dead into a painful act of surrender, choosing God’s mercy over vengeance. Padilla leaves the audience with a simple truth: Reconciliation begins not with revenge, but with the courage to carry another’s cross. “Tirik” succeeds as a religious drama that reimagines the Sacrament of Reconciliation not merely as forgiveness after sin, but as an enduring call to accompany those who continue to suffer. BRUCE L. BUENAVENTURA

named acting dean of the Accountancy college, Asst. Prof. Eliseo Panganiban III, assistant dean, and Asst. Prof. Albert Cruz, college secretary. Assoc. Prof. Jennifer Aguilar, formerly assistant dean of the College of Fine Arts and Design (CFAD), was named dean, succeeding Asst. Prof. Christie Que. Asst. Prof. Romano Macaisa (CFAD) and Asst. Prof. Ryan Ramirez (Faculty of Engineering) were appointed assistant deans. Lallanita Rayala was named acting faculty secretary of the Graduate School of Law. Asst. Prof. Ma. Zenia Rodriguez, a former hospital official and Artlets faculty secretary, was appointed faculty secretary of the Graduate School. Assoc. Prof. Ritzmond Loa was named secretary of the College of Nursing, succeeding Asst. Prof. Genecar Pe Benito. Senior Teacher John Medina was appointed assistant principal for curriculum and instruction of UST Senior High School, succeeding Prof. Rodrigo Litao.

niya ang layunin nitong magbukas maraming oportunidad para sa mga Pilipino, lalo na sa paglikha ng trabaho at pagpapalakas ng ekonomiya. Gayunpaman, hindi tinalakay ni Marcos ang mga epektong kaakibat ng Pax Silica, lalo na sa kapaligiran, kabilang na ang paggamit ng mga likas na yaman gaya ng nickel bilang kilala ang Pilipinas na pangalawa sa pinakamalaking producer ng nickel sa mundo. Posible rin sanang pagtuunan ng pansin ni Marcos ang malakas na pagkonsumo ng enerhiya at tubig para sa mga AI data center upang palamigin ang mga kagamitang nagpapatakbo rito. Sa loob ng kanyang pinakamahabang talumpati, pinili ng pangulo na lunurin ang masa sa mga “false hope” at panakip-butas na pangakong hindi tumutugon sa tunay na problema ng bansa. Hindi maipagkakailang nakakapagtaka kung bakit iniwasan ng pangulo ang mga usaping ito. Marahil ayaw niyang magbukas ito sa mas malalim na pagsusuri ukol sa kaniyang pamamahala. Gayunpaman, responsibilidad niya bilang nakaupo sa puwesto ang makialam sa mga kontrobersiyang nagpaparami ng tanong ng masa. Bilang pangulo ng bansa, hindi sapat na ilatag lamang niya ang mga proyekto at hakbang ng administrasyon habang patuloy na isinasantabi ang mga pagkukulang na nangangailangan mismo ng kanyang pansin.

‘yung panahon,” saad ni Panganiban. (Nagpapasalamat ako na natuloy pa rin ang Welcome Walk sa kabila ng nangyayari, at naniniwala ako na dahil sa diwang Tomasino, nandoon pa rin ang pagpupursige kahit ganito ‘yong panahon.) Nagsimula ang klase para sa mga sophomore, junior, at senior ngayong taong akademiko noong Agosto 7. Simula noong 2002, ang tradisyunal na Thomasian Welcome Walk at ang pagpasok sa makasaysayang Arch of the Centuries ang nagsisilbing opisyal na pagbubukas sa taong panuruan para sa mga bagong Tomasino. MAY ULAT NINA AMADOR DENZEL M. TESTON AT ALEXANDRA S. DEMAISIP

University-wide department chairpersons were also named: Asst. Prof. Leidy Alnajes (Filipino), Assoc. Prof. Arlene Calara (History), Assoc. Prof. Myreen Cleofe (Psychology). Asst. Prof. Joram Corcuera (English), and Assoc. Prof. Dino Tordesillas (Biological Sciences). Assoc. Prof. Ralph Galan was named director of the Center for Creative Writing and Literary Studies. Prof. Melvin Marcial was appointed director of the Henry Sy Sr. Hall Faculty of Medicine and Surgery Simulation and Research Center. Prof. Jeremaiah Opiniano was returned as director of the Research Center for Social Sciences and Education, while the officer in charge, Assoc. Prof. Katrina Topacio, was named assistant director. Prof. Karen Santiago was named director of the Office of International Relations and Programs. Senior Teacher Efraim Fernandez was appointed assistant director for student formation and leadership in the Office for Student Affairs. Prof. Elizabeth Arenas will serve as program quality management officer. Appointments of new academic and administrative officials took effect on Aug. 1.

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THE VARSITARIAN • IKA-29 NG AGOSTO, 2026

TAMPOK

TUMATAYONG PATNUGOT: JUSTIN JACOB S. URAG

Rabiya Mateo pauses showbiz career to pursue longtime medical dream

‘It’s a calling’ THE PATH to becoming a doctor requires more than determination, but also a steadfast and unwavering passion. Miss Universe Philippines 2020 Rabiya Mateo holds on to this ideal as she returns as a student to pursue her dreams of becoming a medical doctor. From evening gowns, she will now don scrubs and a white uniform as she begins her studies at the UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery. “It’s a calling. It’s really a sacrifice. It’s more than that, you know. Looking back, I think I really needed to take those gap years for me to establish my life because being a doctor, especially here in the Philippines, it’s never easy,” Mateo told the Varsitarian. While many celebrities leave their previous endeavors for a high-paying career in showbiz, Mateo chose the reverse. Pursuing medicine has been Mateo’s dream since she graduated with a physical therapy degree at Iloilo Doctors’ College eight years ago. As the breadwinner of her family, she chose to set her dreams aside, working as a lecturer at a review center to support her family before entering the world of pageantry. “I’ve always wanted to be a doctor like my dad, but reality hit,” Mateo added. “I really needed to provide for my mom [and] for my brothers, so I took the responsibility to find work first, to do show business on the side, and save up.” Of the medical schools in the country, Mateo chose UST owing to the 155-year-

Tomasino Siya ► MULA PAHINA 6

pangangalaga ng UST noong 1918. Binuo niya ang batas para sa pagtatatag ng Surian ng Wikang Pambansa na kilala sa kasalukuyan bilang Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino. Naging tagapangulo rin si Romualdez ng Committee on National Language. Kabilang sa mga dulang kaniyang naisulat ang “An Pagtabang ni San Miguel,” (1899) “An Anak han Manaranggot,” (1921) at mga lektura gaya ng “The Psychology of the Filipino” (1925) at “Filipino Musical Instruments and Airs of Long Ago” (1931). Bago nagsimula ang Himagsikang Pilipino, natanggap niya mula sa UST ang titulong Maestro de Segunda Enseñanza, para makapagturo. Matapos mahinto ang kaniyang pag-aaral dahil sa rebolusyon, natapos niya ang kursong abogasiya at pumasa sa Philippine Bar Examinations noong 1903. Nagsilbi siyang mahistrado ng Korte Suprema noong 1921. Isa si Romualdez sa tinaguriang “Seven Wise Men” na bumalangkas sa pagbuo ng Saligang Batas noong 1935. Nagturo siya sa Unibersidad mula noong 1895 hanggang sa kaniyang pagpanaw noong 1941. JAMES MAVERICK R. TALAVERA

old institution’s stature in the field of medicine. “Our national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, [studied] medicine in UST, and I want to be part of that family, of that legacy,” Mateo said. As a physical therapist, Mateo worked first-hand with people with disabilities across all ages. What struck her the most was treating young patients which, to her, is a source of hope in trying times. “I know it’s not going to be easy, but every time I get to work with kids, I feel like I’m working with innocent and pure souls. It gives me the energy that [makes me feel] it’s still a wonderful world. Despite its chaos and its issues, this world is still worth believing in because of our children.” Mateo is an advocate of mental health wellness. As an aspiring doctor, she intends to use her platform to impart awareness regarding depression. She also strives to inspire women to break social stigma, working to be an example of a “girl who made everything possible,” regardless of age. “I hope that I can inspire more women to continue their dreams, to go back to school, and continue their calling. At my age, society expects me to get married, to have kids. That is the usual track, but I really want to break that stigma, and I really want to live a good life for myself.” Through hard work and perseverance, she was able to win beauty titles, going as far as landing as a top 21 semifinalist of Miss Universe 2020, held in Florida in May 2021. She hopes to bring the same attitude as a medical student.

‘‘

Looking back, I think I really needed to take those gap years for me to establish my life because being a doctor, especially here in the Philippines, it’s never easy. Rabiya Mateo

MISS UNIVERSE PHILIPPINES 2020

“Now that I’m going to be entering med school, I still wish to be as hopeful and as delusional as I was before, because I don’t want to just stop thinking that I’m going to be a doctor and that’s it,” she said. With classmates from a younger generation, the former beauty queen wants to keep up and excel with them. Having topped her undergraduate studies and the Miss Universe Philippines 2020 tilt, Mateo is setting her sights on topping the physician licensure exams. Given the strenuous demands of medical school, Mateo said she won’t serve two masters at the same time.

► Rabiya Mateo — PHOTO BY JED WILLIAM V. GOCATEK

“I’m setting aside show business. If it’s for me, who knows, after med school, it’s still there. But my sole focus is now with my studies. I’m not going to do things at the same time,” she said. Mateo urged Thomasians to not let adversity rob them of opportunities, reminding them that even though she initially didn’t have the means to pursue her medical dreams, she still made it possible even if it took her eight years later. “Education is really a powerful tool. I always believe that knowledge is and always will be power. Because regardless of where you are right now, if you are knowl-

edgeable, you will excel,” she said. “Don’t listen to this world because this world is cruel. Listen to that voice inside your head telling you that you can do it. Regardless of how big or how small that dream is, if it’s gonna make you a better person and it’s gonna help you serve your community, do it,” she said. Mateo is among the 602 freshmen of the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery. Over 10,000 freshmen enrolled in the first term of AY 2026-2027. WITH REPORTS FROM ELIHOENAI HAZAEL B. CORTEZ , BILLY ANDREI P. RAMOS, AND FRENCHSHIELD SHAYNE G. DELOVIERES.

Electrical technician who chose family and UST over work overseas to retire after 45 years By Ashley Valkyrie E. Bueno

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT Office technician Adolfo Silva is retiring from the University after 45 years of quiet service. For more than four decades, Silva chose to remain at UST while many of his colleagues sought work overseas. No salary abroad could replace watching his children grow up and giving them the opportunity to become Thomasians, he said. Long before becoming one of the University’s longtime electricians, Silva found his first home at the Father’s Residence. Fresh out of high school, he came to UST after his older brother, who worked with priests in San Juan, encouraged him to apply when the UST residence needed additional staff. Silva spent four years serving meals and assisting Dominican priests with their daily needs. Living alongside the priests shaped more than his career. It instilled the discipline and values that guided him throughout his life. “Kasama na rin ’yon lalo na

kausap mo lagi mga pari,” Silva said, recalling how residents regularly attended Friday confessions and learned discipline through their daily interactions with the Dominican community. (That naturally came with the experience, especially because you were always interacting with the priests.) “Pinag-aral nila ako kasi hindi ka puwede doon kung hindi ka nag-aaral,” he recalled, referring to the Dominican community’s support for his enrollment in the University’s two-year electrical technician course. (They supported my studies because you could not stay there if you were not studying.) After earning his diploma, Silva met the rector, Fr. Norberto Castillo, O.P., who offered him a choice: continue studying or begin working for the University. “Pagka-graduate ko, kausap ko yung rector dati, si Fr. Norberto Castillo. Ang sinabi sa akin, ‘Gusto mo nang lumipat o ituloy mo pang mag-aral?’ Sabi ko, ‘Trabaho na lang po ako, Father,’” he said. (After I graduated, I spoke with

the rector then, Fr. Norberto Castillo. He asked me, “Do you want to move on or continue your studies?” I replied, “I’d rather start working, Father.”) Silva joined the University as an electrician, a position he held for 15 years before transferring to technical operations. For many years, he was assigned to the former Rizal Conference Hall in the Faculty of Arts and Letters before later serving in other venues as the University’s facilities evolved. Much of his work took place behind the scenes. During Paskuhan, graduation rites and other major University events, Silva helped install and dismantle sound systems and operated technical booths. In his younger years, he climbed scaffolding to complete technical work before age and stricter safety protocols eventually kept him on the ground. Although many colleagues left for higher-paying jobs overseas, Silva never seriously considered following them. 45 YEARS PAHINA 9

►

DIBUHO NI ARLENE F. TURLA

By Justin Jacob S. Urag

THE VARSITARIAN • IKA-29 NG AGOSTO, 2026

9

PANITIKAN

TUMATAYONG PATNUGOT: ASHLEY VALKYRIE E. BUENO

Libraries cite funding, staffing, space as biggest hurdles to expansion INADEQUATE funding, workforce shortages, and space constraints remain the biggest obstacles to expanding the services and operations of the Manila City Library, a library official said. “Limited budget, ‘yon naman talaga ‘yong unang-unang nagiging problema namin,” Karen Isabel Acapulco, division chief of library extension and district library services of the Manila City Library, told the Varsitarian. (Limited funding has always been our biggest problem.) Acapulco said resource constraints have made it difficult for libraries to keep pace with the evolving role of librarians, who are increasingly expected to conduct community-based programs. “Ang akala nila ‘pag nasa library ka, nandito ka lang sa loob ng repository of books, [pero] every year, nagbabago [ang mga pangangailangan sa trabaho]. So, kailangang sabayan

mo rin ‘yong pagbabago na ‘yon,” she said. (People think that if you work in a library, you simply stay inside a repository of books. But the demands of the profession change every year, so you have to adapt as well.) Ma. Cynthia Encarnita Vila of the Pangasinan Provincial Library likewise said trained professionals capable of managing integrated library systems, online databases, and digital collections are needed as libraries adapt to changing public needs. “The role of librarians now extends to digital guardianship,” Vila said in an article published by OpenGov Asia. The 2023 National Readership Survey found that only 18% of Filipino adults and 12% of children are aware of public libraries in their cities or municipalities. Among the Manila City Library’s outreach initiatives are storytelling sessions, puppet shows, film screen-

ings, and art activities for children. Despite these expanded responsibilities, Acapulco said many librarians at the city’s main library were nearing retirement, while some nonprofessional staff members struggled to adapt to technological changes. A study titled “What People Are Saying About City Libraries in Metro Manila” by De La Salle University-Manila found that digital facilities and internet access were among the services most valued by library users. The study added that libraries with functional spaces for device use were better equipped to meet the needs of students and other information seekers. Mary Joy Villaluz, librarian at the Dapitan Public Library, which receives 40 to 60 visitors daily, said external distractions had made it difficult to accommodate students and young children from nearby schools, including Ramon Magsaysay High School and Dr. Alejandro Albert Ele-

How Filipinos adapted English to Filipino culture, identity ENGLISH MAY have arrived in the Philippines as a colonial language, but Filipinos did not leave it unchanged, linguists said. Prof. Rachelle Lintao, former chairperson of the UST Department of English and president of Linguistic Society of the Philippines, said Filipinos transformed the language through “nativization,” a process discussed by scholar Edgar Schneider in his work “Dynamic Model of Postcolonial Englishes.” “Such patterns of politeness, even local institutions acquiring English names, pronunciation, discourse, conversational aspects—all these things fall under the term ‘nativization,’” Lintao told the Varsitarian. Through nativization, English undergoes structural and cultural changes that reflect the identities, experiences, customs, and practices of local speakers, and linguists begin to recognize these as features of what is known as “Philippine English.” Lintao cited expressions such as “barangay captain,” “batchmate,” and “schoolmate” as examples of how Philippine English reflects the social relationships that Filipinos consider important enough to name. The same process is evident in the

45 years ► MULA PAHINA 8 He believed his children needed a present father more than a bigger paycheck. That decision, he said, allowed him to watch them grow up and eventually study at the same University where he had spent most of his working life. Both of his sons became Thomasians, one enrolling in the Faculty of Arts and Letters and the other in the Faculty of Civil Law, fulfilling

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term “sari-sari store,” which, according to Lintao, refers not only to a place to buy goods but also to a community

space for Filipinos. The Philippines, considered one of the most linguistically diverse places in Southeast Asia, has developed expressions such as “kilig,” “gigil,” “load my phone P50,” “value meal,” “solo meal,” and “family meal” that correspond to distinct social and economic realities, Lintao said. The Filipino word “gigil” entered the Oxford Dictionary in March 2025, following “kilig,” which was added in 2016 under the Philippine English entry category. For Lintao, these expressions demonstrate that Philippine English is rooted in the experiences of its speakers, particularly when certain concepts have no direct equivalent in standard English. “We make use of the English language in expressing Philippine reality and the culture that we have as a nation,” she said. Kaela Madrunio, a forensic linguistics alumna of Aston University and a faculty member at the Philippine Normal University, said Filipino speakers transformed English to suit their perceptions of language, resulting in distinct structural, pragmatic, and rhythmic features.

the dream that kept him rooted at UST for more than four decades. Looking back, Silva said his proudest accomplishment was not the countless events he helped stage but the family he raised. “Napabuti ang pamilya ko,” he said. “Pinili ko dito mag-stay para mapabuti ang pamilya ko.” (My family turned out well. I chose to stay here so I could provide them with a better life.) He also recalled how the

Thomasian community stood by his family during difficult times. When one of his children became seriously ill, a University regent extended assistance after Silva sought help. Now 65 and living with diabetes, Silva is preparing for retirement. He is overseeing the construction of his home and hopes to travel while his health still allows. As he closes a chapter spanning nearly half a century, Silva

It was Filipinos who made English their own. What emerged was not simply a borrowed language, but a variety that carries traces of Filipino identity, experience, and worldview Kaela Madrunio FORENSIC LINGUIST

mentary School. She cited noise from passing motorcycles and basketball games as recurring disruptions because the library is located on the second floor of the Arturo Tolentino Sports Complex along Dapitan Street. Villaluz also expressed concern over the library’s limited capacity, which leaves little room for updated collection of titles and additional study areas. “[Kapag] sobrang dami [nila], ‘yong iba nasa sahig na. Doon ang mahirap naman i-manage ‘yong init kasi, although [may] aircon naman, ‘di siya gano’n kalakas,” she said. (When there are too many visitors, some end up sitting on the floor. The challenge is managing their discomfort because although we have air-conditioning units, they are not that powerful.) Acapulco said establishing more public libraries across Manila remained difficult because of the city’s

“It was Filipinos who made English their own. What emerged was not simply a borrowed language, but a variety that carries traces of Filipino identity, experience, and worldview,” Madrunio said in an interview with the Varsitarian. Citing Andrew Gonzales, a renowned scholar and linguist at De La Salle University with expertise in sociolinguistics and psycholinguistics, she pointed to the use of “wherein” in spoken discourse as a possible indicator of Philippine English usage. Other familiar expressions include “result to” “based from” and “researches” as a countable noun. “These features may raise a few eyebrows among those who strictly adhere to traditional grammar rules, but they reflect distinctive patterns associated with Philippine English usage,” Madrunio said. Despite these developments, Madrunio said many Filipinos continue to police and penalize Philippine English because of its association with prestige and correctness conforming to American or British standards. Lintao argues that Philippine English can be accepted in local settings when it remains intelligible, comprehensible, and acceptable to its speakers. She clarified that legitimizing the local variety does not mean abandoning grammar rules, and Filipinos must maintain proficiency standards for examinations and professional settings abroad. PRINCE CASSEL O. TRONO

leaves younger employees with the same principle that guided him throughout his career. “Magtrabaho lang kayo nang maayos. Huwag haluan ng kalokohan. Magbigay tayo ng best natin sa UST,” he said. “Tumagal ako dahil sa sikap at dasal.” (Just do your work well. Don’t mix it with dishonesty. Let’s always give our best to UST. I lasted this long through hard work and prayer.)

limited land area. Republic Act No. 7743 mandates the establishment of public libraries and reading centers in every city, municipality, and congressional district to expand access to reading materials. In an article published by the Philippine Information Agency, National Library of the Philippines Director Cesar Adriano said partnerships with more than 1,600 public libraries nationwide were vital to combating illiteracy and strengthening literacy programs. The country’s literacy rate among Filipinos aged 5 years and older rose to 97% in 2020 from 95.8% in 2015. Established in 1946, the Manila City Library has 11 branches. Eight remain operational, while three are temporarily closed: the San Nicolas Public Library in Binondo, the San-Francisco Friendship Library in Sta. Cruz, and the Manila-Sacramento Friendship Library in Paco. CHARLIZE ANN D. LAVASTIDA

‘Malalansang salita’ ► MULA PAHINA 7

sa mga sumunod na dekada. Kabilang dito ang Ampatuan massacre noong 2009, Mamasapano massacre noong 2015, at extrajudicial killings kontra droga sa ilalim ng administrasyon ng dating pangulong Rodrigo Duterte. Bukod sa kaniyang mga akda, naging inspirasyon si Alejo para sa pelikulang “Tirik” sa panulat ng nobelistang si Charlson Ong, na kabilang sa full-length entries ng Cinemalaya festival 2026. Umiikot ang kuwento ng Katolikong pari at isang taxi driver na umaming hired killer ngunit kalaunan ay nagbago ng pananaw at nangakong ititigil ang pagpatay. May tema ng pagtubos sa kasalanan at pagharap sa mga maling nagawa sa nakaraan, ang “Tirik,” na maaaring mapanood sa Shangri La Plaza, Gateway Cineplex 18 at ilang sangay ng Ayala Mall Cinemas mula Agosto 6 hanggang 18. Ibinahagi ni Alejo ang kanyang pananaw sa karahasan sa isang theological forum ng grupong “Kingdom Keepers” noong ika-4 ng Agosto sa Diyosesis ng Cubao. Ito ay matapos makatanggap ng mga banta sina Fr. Robert Reyes, isang paring aktibista, at Melba Maggay, isang anthropologist at kapuwa aktibista, dahil sa kanilang mga pahayag hinggil sa Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) sa isang press conference noong Hunyo 10. Tinawag ni Maggay na “cult” ang INC sa naturang panayam at kinuwestiyon ang impluwensiyang pampulitika nito na isinasagawa sa pamamagitan ng bloc voting tuwing halalan. Sinuportahan ni Reyes ang pahayag at sinabi niyang problema ito para sa bansa. Noong 2019, iniulat nina Alejo, Reyes, at kapuwa pari na si Fr. Flavie Villanueva na nakatanggap sila ng mga banta matapos nilang batikusin ang extrajudicial killings sa ilalim ng rehimeng Duterte. JAMES MAVERICK R. TALAVERA

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THE VARSITARIAN • IKA-29 NG AGOSTO, 2026

MULINYO

PATNUGOT: KIRSTEN THERESE C. BARRAMEDA

CINEMALAYA 22

► ‘Spiders do not naturally fight each

other, instead, they are placed in an environment where they are forced to fight each other.’

‘Ganggang’ portrays the web of childhood fear, power struggles THOMASIAN FILMMAKER and award-winning director JL Burgos returns to the Cinemalaya festival with his full-length film “Ganggang,” a coming-of-age drama that follows three boys as their search for a fighting spider unfolds amid growing tensions within their community. The film revolves around Mel (Raine Dela Cruz), Ten-Ten (Kenneth “Butchoy” Vincent Mendoza), and Ilay (Don Rishmond Cerbito), three boys from different backgrounds who form a friendship through their shared interest in spider fighting. The group’s search for a ganggang, or fighting spider, initially gives the boys an escape from their problems at school. However, as the story progresses, the simple childhood game becomes increasingly aligned to the conflict and power structures surrounding their community. Burgos’s choice of the fighting spider as the film’s central symbol is rooted in his own childhood experience playing spider-fighting games. He noted how spiders do not naturally fight each other, instead, they are placed in an environment where they are forced to fight each other. The film consequently expands its portrayal of power and hierarchy from the schoolyard to the community. Here, authority is exercised through social position, familial authority, and military presence. The three boys experience this environment from different perspectives—Ilay’s vulnerability makes him susceptible to bullying,

Justified ► MULA PAHINA 4 babayad ang Anthropic ng halagang $1.5 bilyon, o humigit-kumulang P91.1 bilyon, sa mga nagsampa ng kaso. Subalit hindi kasama sa desisyon ng Korte ang paggamit ng mga libro upang sanayin ang AI dahil saklaw pa rin ito ng fair use. Tinatayang 500,000 ang mga librong kinakailangang bigyan ng kompensasiyon ng Anthropic. Bawat pamagat ay inaasahang makatatanggap ng $3,000 o humigit-kumulang P183,000 na dalawang taon ring hinintay ng mga manunulat at mga publikasyon. Kaakibat o higit pa sa mga kompensasyong matatanggap ng mga rights holders ng mga piniratang libro ay ang hindi natugunang suliranin: ang mga pisikal na librong tinanggalan ng gulugod upang mapadali ang proseso ng scanning at maging

‘Para-Paraan’ exposes everyday barriers faced by PWDs UST alumna Mae Chan Li unravels the everyday obstacles that prevent persons with disabilities (PWDs) from living comfortably and independently in the Philippines in the 10-minute short film “Para-Paraan” (Finding A Way Through). The film follows Kat (Katrina Marie Hernandez), a para powerlifter, as she goes about everyday errands such as picking up medicine from a drugstore, withdrawing money from a bank and buying groceries. Through these seemingly mundane tasks, the film reveals a more troubling reality for people with disabilities similar to Kat’s: They are often expected to adapt to environments that offer neither adequate accessibility nor inclusion. Li portrays the state of the country’s urban infrastructure through Kat’s journey. Roads, sidewalks, ramps

and elevators become obstacles themselves, exposing how spaces designed for everyday use can remain inaccessible to PWDs. As Kat repeatedly encounters these barriers, the film prompts viewers to examine whether government programs and initiatives have done enough to provide safe, affordable and accessible spaces for people with disabilities. With its raw visuals, audio and rough cuts, “Para-Paraan” grounds its advocacy in the ordinary, showing how routine activities can become difficult when accessibility is treated as an afterthought. Ultimately, the short film makes a case for safer and more inclusive spaces where PWDs are not merely accommodated but empowered to live independently and reach their full potential. ELIZABETH JOY C. CASTRO

► Stills from JL Burgos’ full-length debut ‘Ganggang’ — RETRIEVED FROM THE CINEMALAYA WEBSITE

while Ten-Ten’s reserved personality makes his fear more visible. Mel’s circumstances, on the other hand, are further complicated by his relationship with his father, a soldier whose authority is reflected sharply in their household. “Ganggang” gradually reveals underlying social pressures rather than relying on extended exposition, evident in how supporting characters such as teachers, soldiers, and community members become part of an increasingly uneasy environment while the boys remain largely outside the adult conversations that influence their circumstances. Burgos grounds the film in the children’s perspective and extends its symbolism beyond spider-fighting itself. It highlights how the boys

► Stills from Mae

Chan Li’s short film ‘Para-Paraan’

are far too young to understand yet old enough to fear what is happening around them. The boys’ aspirations further underscore what’s at stake in the future, with their different ambitions set against a world where children have little to no control over the course of their lives. While the film’s pacing, sound design, and musical score create a growing sense of urgency, the repeated use of musical swells can become predictable. Some of the dialogue is uneven, and exchanges between the characters feel natural while others feel insincere. Several sequences make the film’s broader political themes more explicit than necessary. JOSHUA EM-

— RETRIEVED FROM THE CINEMALAYA WEBSITE

MANUEL E. CAMACHO

klaro ang teksto para sa AI. Anthropic ang isa sa mga kumpanyang nagpasimuno ng kasula-sulasok na pamamaraang ito na itinago nito sa pangalang “Project Panama.” Sa mata ng batas, hindi ito ilegal. Walang pumipigil sa mga kumpanyang ito na sumira ng mga aklat upang sanayin ang kanilang AI. Kung ang pagtupi ng aklat ay maihahalintulad sa consent, klaro pa sa sikat ng araw na ang pagtanggal sa gulugod nito ay paglabag sa sagradong koneksiyon sa pagitan ng mga pahina at mambabasa. Ang kalakarang ito ay dystopian, kasuklam-suklam, at isang malaking kawalang-respeto sa mga manunulat. Dumating na tayo sa punto ng ating eksistensiya kung saan gumagamit tayo ng AI–na “natutong” magsulat gamit ang mga librong inilathala ng mga tao–upang magsulat para sa atin.

Ngunit doon na rin nanggagaling ang parikala: dahil hindi kailanman, kahit gaano pa ipilit, magiging tao ang AI kahit ilang milyong libro pa ang sirain upang ipakain dito. Sa kasalukuyan ay mayroong mga palatandaan at bakas ang LLM sa mga akdang isinulat nito, tulad ng hustong paggamit ng mga gatlang (–) at mga pariralang “not only, but also.” Subalit, wala pa ring tiyak na pamamaraan sa pagbubuklod ng mga akdang sulat ng LLM at sulat ng tao. Dahil dito, kailangan na muling suriin ang mga batas hinggil sa karapatang-sipi, lalo na ang Intellectual Property Code o ang Republic Act Blg. 8293 sa Pilipinas upang masaklaw ang mga makabagong teknolohiya tulad ng AI. Sa kasalukuyan, malinaw na ang tanging kinikilala ng batas na may-akda ay ang “natural person,” kung kaya’t hindi maaaring maging pagmamay-ari ng AI

ang kahit anong likha nito. Gayunpaman, kung ang kaso tulad ng Bartz v. Anthropic ay maihahain sa loob ng bansa, kailangang handa ang legal framework upang masakop ng batas ang fair use hinggil sa AI. Matagal na ring umiikot ang usap-usapan ang pag-usbong ng mga digital na libro at ang kaakibat na problema nito tulad ng malawakang pamimirata. Dahil dito, iminungkahi ng Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines ang pagharang sa mga website na naglalaman ng mga librong isinulat ng mga Pilipino na walang pahintulot mula sa mga may-akda nito. Ngunit sino pa ba ang nagbabasa ng mga pisikal na aklat? Magda-dalawang dekada na ang nakalipas, ang antas ng mambabasang Filipino edad 18 pataas ay nasa 61%. Noong 2012, nasa 54% ito. Batay sa pinakahuling

pagsusuri ng National Book Development Board noong 2023, pumapatak na 42% ang nagbabasa ng libro bilang uri ng kanilang libangan. Dagdag pa rito, ang suporta ng gobyerno sa mga silid-aklatan ay wisik lamang kumpara sa atensiyong binibigay sa impeachment trial, mga kalsadang de-iskedyul ang pagbakbak, at sa mga maanomalyang flood control project. Hindi maipagkakaila na ang mahinang pagpapatupad ng batas sa karapatang-sipi ay hadlang sa paglago ng panitikan sa loob ng bansa. Hindi masisisi ang ordinaryong Juan kung bakit hindi na ito ginaganahang magbasa. Sa dami ng problemang hinaharap ng bansa, imbes na buklatin ang aklat, ilalaan niya na lamang ang oras sa kung paano tutugunan ang kanyang kumakalam na sikmura.

THE VARSITARIAN • IKA-29 NG AGOSTO, 2026

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PAMPALAKASAN

PATNUGOT: LILAH MIKAELA S. PAREDES

Obiena wins 3rd straight gold, sets new meet record in Poland THOMASIAN POLE vaulter EJ Obiena secured his third consecutive gold of the season after setting a season-best at the Golden Sand 2026 competition in Międzyzdroje, Poland, on Monday, Aug. 17 (Philippine time). Obiena cleared 5.91 meters to claim the gold, marking his best performance of the season and his first clearance of 5.90 meters or higher in two years. His winning mark also established a new meet record. He surpassed his previous season-best mark of 5.85 meters, which he recorded at the Meeting Madrid in July where he won silver. Qatar’s Seifeldin Abdelsalam took silver after clearing 5.75 meters, while American Cole Walsh settled for bronze with a 5.70-meter clearance. The victory followed Obiena’s gold two weeks ago at the 30th In-

► Nicolai Cabañero — PHOTO BY VIO NEIRO M. VILLAESCUSA

New Cabañero, reloaded roster bolster Tiger Cubs’ Season 89 campaign THE UST Tiger Cubs enter UAAP Season 89 with a new-look roster and a new Cabañero on board, hoping to break through after consecutive bronze finishes. UST will rely heavily on newcomers this season, with 12 rookies set to debut in the UAAP and four players returning from last year’s squad. The team’s roster addition comes after several departures. Miguel Jubilado, CJ Tabugga and Dave Regala have moved up to the 19-under division, while 2025 Rookie of the Year Rowie Cabañero transferred to Mapúa University. Adding a familiar name to the roster is Nicolai Cabañero, who becomes the third sibling in the family to suit up for UST after former Growling Tiger Nic Cabañero and Tiger Cub Andwele Cabañero. The Tiger Cubs are also counting

Stranded ► MULA PAHINA 5 people from flooded portions of the campus. Students exposed to floodwater were offered free doxycycline at the Main Building, while the UST Health Service provided free consultations. Overnight on campus

With roads around UST still impassable late into the evening, some students were unable to leave even after several hours. At about 11 p.m., students who still could not reach exit routes were directed to the TYK Student Center for overnight shelter. Journalism sophomore Romulo Josef Agana, a daily commuter from Mandaluyong, stayed at TYK from about 6 p.m. until 7 a.m. the following day and eventually volunteered in the relief operations. He said limited manpower and transportation made it difficult to gather students stranded in different buildings and bring them to TYK. “Super hirap ilikom or tipunin ng mga students inside the campus, what

on a stronger defensive foundation after head coach Noli Mejos made defense the centerpiece of their offseason preparation. “Nag-focus kami sa defense. This week puro defense drills kami kasi ‘yong offense basta sumusunod [sa sistema] andyan lang,” Mejos told the Varsitarian. Mejos said the young players still need to adjust to the more structured basketball environment in Manila, particularly with the demands of UAAP competition, academics and campus culture. “Mas systematic dito sa Manila kaysa sa province, kaya malaking adjustment, lalo na sa academics ‘saka sa culture,” he said. Team captain Wayne Anggot will be among the few familiar faces to guide the young Tiger Cubs, alongside forward Lanse Duenas and guards Rashid Retaga and Nathan Bathan.

more pa talaga outside,” Agana told the Varsitarian. (It was extremely difficult to gather the students inside the campus, much more those outside.) “As one of the volunteers, masasabi ko naman talaga na hindi naging fully or adequate ‘yong help na naibigay namin sa Thomasian community,” he said. (As one of the volunteers, I can say that the help we were able to provide the Thomasian community was not fully adequate.) By 10 p.m., some students and personnel had begun leaving despite ankle-deep water around several buildings. Students were allowed to depart after being fetched by guardians and receiving clearance from their academic units. At 11:30 p.m., a truck carrying students who had been stranded at the QPav for more than 10 hours left the flooded campus. Electronics engineering senior Jihan Casiedo, however, remained stranded at the Fr. Roque Ruaño, O.P. Building from 11 a.m. until 5 a.m. the next day. “Relief and rescue operations are necessary, but they only address the effects, and not the causes,” Casiedo said. “Flooding has been happening re-

“Going into this season, the expectation is higitan pa ‘yong sa last year,” Anggot told the Varsitarian. The Tiger Cubs also added Kian Aboboto, Junio Cuello, June Esusan, Mcryan Macasarte and Cabañero, along with forward Kirby Collado, Eldoon Eusebio, Miguel Austria, Rain Jardinico, Kishan Samaniego, Chris Olango and Rayden Umbana. UST went 10-4 in last season’s elimination round and earned the No. 2 seed before falling to the FEU-D Baby Tamaraws in the stepladder semifinals. Eligibility issues also forced key players Raj Sidhu, Everaigne Cruz and Roi Balague to miss the entire campaign. The Tiger Cubs opened their Season 89 campaign against defending champion National University-Nazareth School Bullpups on Saturday, Aug. 15, at the FEU Diliman Sports Complex in Quezon City. CHARLES MARTIN A. MANALANG

peatedly; sustainable solutions in flood control and drainage systems are much needed instead of repeatedly responding only when a disaster occurs,” he added. ‘This could have been prevented’

The ordeal later fueled criticism of both the Manila city government and the University over the timing of the suspension. “No student should ever be forced to choose between pursuing education and protecting their safety,” the UST Central Student Council (CSC) said in an Aug. 19 statement. The council said weather monitoring, flood advisories, and Manila’s history of flooding should have provided authorities with sufficient warning. “Students should not have to wait until the streets are flooded before their safety is considered,” it said. “When the signs are already present, waiting for the danger to arrive is not preparedness. It is negligence.” On Aug. 18, Domagoso posted photos of relief assistance sent by the city government to UST with the message, “WALANG MAIIWAN.” (NO ONE WILL

Fusion Alley ► MULA PAHINA 3

The mayor also told Fusion Alley vendors that the Manila Health Department (MHD) would conduct random inspections at their stalls. “We are doing random checks, [for the] safety of the consumer … just like what we normally do at Isetann [mall] on Recto Avenue,” Domagoso said in Filipino. In a Facebook post on Thursday night, Domagoso called for discipline among vendors. “Malinaw ang aking bilin: kapag nakita kong marumi ang paligid ay kaagad ko silang ipapasara,” Domagoso wrote. (My request is clear: if I see that the surroundings are dirty, I will close

Awards ► MULA PAHINA 12 sporting history and preparations for hosting the league. The video primer was produced by former Sports editor Rob Andrew Dongiapon and managing editor Karis Tsang, edited by photo editor James Magboo, and animated by assistant art editor Regina Louise Sanota and artist Aisha Fortes. The UAAP Season 88 Kickoff Party and The Flame’s feature on the league’s

BE LEFT BEHIND.) The Manila Department of Social Welfare and other local disaster-response offices delivered 1,200 food packs, 30 boxes of water, and 3,000 pieces of doxycycline to the University. CSC Vice President Franz Salangsang challenged the mayor’s declaration. “Mayro’n pong naiwan,” Salangsang said. (Some were left behind.) Salangsang said students had spent hours uncertain of when they could leave while worried parents struggled to contact children who, in some cases, commuted from the provinces. “This could have been prevented with an early announcement,” Salangsang said. “You weren’t unaware of how the situation was; you were able to post it. And yet the suspensions only came in at 12 p.m.?” Esguerra likewise described flooding in Metro Manila as a persistent problem rather than an exceptional occurrence. “For the past years, this kind of flooding has been a sickness roaming around Metro Manila,” she said. “Resiliency should never be deemed

► EJ Obiena — PHOTO BY JAMES MICHAEL M. MAGBOO

ternational Pole Vault Meeting in Jockgrim, Germany, where he cleared 5.83 meters. Obiena now has eight gold medals in the 2026 season. ALLANEE RAYE C. VALERIANO

down [the stalls] immediately.) In a subsequent Facebook post, Domagoso shared two videos showing workers sweeping and scrubbing the food strip and collecting garbage in the early hours of Friday, July 31. “Rest assured, pinakikinggan ko po ang reklamo ng bawat Batang Maynila, kahit isa o iilan pa lamang ang nagsasalita. At sisiguraduhin nating mananatiling malinis at maayos ang Fusion Alley,” Domagoso wrote. (Rest assured, I listen to the concerns of the youth of Manila, even if only one or a few are speaking. And we will make sure that Fusion Alley remains clean and orderly.) PAOLO EMMANUEL D.C. BLANCO AND YUAHN ZACHARY B. GUILAS

opening, “Non-Thomasians given a taste of cherished UST traditions in dazzling UAAP opener,” also earned Student Quills. The Varsitarian’s print edition titled “Thomasian walk out: Students condemn corruption, call for accountability” likewise won an award. UST secured 19 awards overall in the Student Quills, finishing behind De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, which took home 53 awards.

toxic. Long-term issues should be fixed by permanence,” Esguerra added. Chemical engineering senior Jari Carl Dela Fuente said he understood the backlash against the mayor following the incident. “I think I would be more surprised if he were not under attack,” Dela Fuente said. He said he hoped the flooding would serve as a lesson for both officials and the public about the consequences of delayed decisions. “I believe no one wanted this to happen to the people. But it just so happens that there are actions, or the lack of them, that lead to this,” he said. The University suspended classes and office work in the days immediately following the flooding and later shifted classes to enriched virtual mode as cleanup and recovery operations continued. Seminarians posted photos of their cleanup efforts after floodwaters entered their chapel, a ritual that’s becoming more frequent. ASHLEY MADELEINE D. LAMPA WITH REPORTS FROM LUIS ANGELO N. PALMA AND ELIHOENAI HAZAEL B. CORTEZ

Pampalakasan

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Obiena wins 3rd straight gold, sets new meet record in Poland

The Varsitarian IKA-29 NG AGOSTO, 2026

► Akowe — PHOTO BY JERICK MARC LAURENCE C. GRIMALDO

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Jumawan shines as Tigers take silver; Akowe named MVP THE UST Growling Tigers settled for silver in the AsiaBasket NSAC World Invitational after falling short against the Fighting Eagles Nagoya, 92-91, in the championship game on Sunday, Aug. 16, at the PhilSports Arena. UST led by as many as 11 points in the opening quarter, but Nagoya answered with a 23-11 second-quarter surge to cut the deficit before the Tigers narrowly fell short in a thrilling finish. Former U.S. NCAA Division I player Landyn Jumawan delivered 20 points, seven rebounds and five assists on 7-of-9 shooting, including 5-of-7 from beyond the arc, while tournament MVP Collins Akowe also posted 20 points and 12 rebounds. Amiel Acido added 18 points off the bench in UST’s valiant effort.

► UST Tiger Sands Sofia Pagara (left) and Khy Progella (right). — PHOTO BY VIO NEIRO M. VILLAESCUSA

TIGER SANDS SNAG GOLD IN BUSAN By Kurt Russel Vincent I. Miranda

UST Tiger Sands Khy Progella and Sofia Pagara downed fellow Alas Pilipinas teammates Sisi Rondina and Bernadeth Pons, 21-18, 21-13, to capture the FIVB Beach Pro Tour Futures crown in Busan, South Korea, on Sunday, Aug. 16.

The young UST pair battled through rainy conditions in the all-Filipino final before overcoming Rondina, a UST volleyball legend, and Pons, a Far Eastern University alumna who has long teamed up with Rondina for the national squad. Progella, the UAAP Season 88 women’s beach volleyball MVP, and Pagara, the Season 87 Rookie of the Year, went undefeated en

route to their first international championship together. The UST duo defeated teams from Australia, South Korea, the United States and two separate Japanese pairs on their way to the final. Rondina and Pons likewise advanced to the championship match after beating pairs from South Korea, Australia and the United States. They previous-

‘‘

‘Yong fighting spirit kahit na lamang na nang malaki ang kalaban, sana madala natin sa UAAP.

ly suffered a loss to Brazil but bounced back to reach the final. Progella and Pagara had earlier partnered to help UST reclaim the UAAP women’s beach volleyball crown in Season 88, defeating the National University Lady Bulldogs in the title match. The pair also represented the Philippines at the Asian Beach Games in April.

Peter Martin HEAD COACH

UST’s opening gala for Season 88 wins awards By Lilah Mikaela S. Paredes

UST’S GRAND “Paskuhan-like” UAAP Season 88 opening ceremony in September 2025 earned recognition at the 22nd Philippine Quill Awards, an industry-led competition honoring outstanding communication programs, research and creative work nationwide. The opening festivities, held on Sept. 19, drew nearly 37,000 attendees from UAAP member schools and the Thomasian community and won under Division 4: Communication Skills, Special and Experiential Events. The spectacle transformed the UST campus into a massive stage, culminating in a Paskuhan-style concert. The Season 88 opening began with the ceremonial cauldron lighting led by two-time Olympian and Thomasian pole vaulter EJ Obiena. Former Golden Tigresses captain Sisi Rondina, Season 70 senior basketball MVP Jervy Cruz and

former Tiger Judoka Sydney Sy served as torchbearers. Athletes from UAAP member schools marched through the Arch of the Centuries as a drone show formed the logos of the participating universities above the campus.

► The Quill Awards

Thomasian artists also took the stage during the celebration. Music alumnus and OPM singer-songwriter Kean Cipriano performed the Season 88 theme song with the UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe. Popstar royalty and Education High School alumna Sarah Geronimo made a surprise appearance during the concert, which ended with an eight-minute pyromusical illuminating the UST grounds with fireworks symbolizing the cheers and colors of all eight UAAP schools. The “Hope Concert” closed the festivities, featuring OPM artists Rob Deniel and Earl Agustin, along with Filipino rock band Lola Amour. “We nailed it,” Season 88 President and UST athletics director Fr. Rodel Cansancio, O.P. told the Varsitarian in May, reflecting on the University’s hosting of the season. “My hope is that people remember

this season in full — from opening to closing,” Cansancio added. “More than that, I want it remembered as Thomasian through and through: rooted in history and grandeur, carried out with gratitude and class.” The recognition added another highlight to UST’s banner Season 88, in which the University also captured its ninth straight seniors’ championship and eighth consecutive juniors’ crown, further cementing its standing as the winningest school in UAAP history with 49 seniors’ and 24 juniors’ titles overall. Meanwhile, in the 12th Student Quill Awards, the Varsitarian’s UAAP Season 88 special print issue, “UAAP IS HERE,” and its first-semester video primer, “Welcome to my House,” received awards under Division 4. The special issue featured stories on key figures in University sports, UST’s AWARDS PAGE 11

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UST opened the game with a 2214 run, fueled by three Acido triples, to take a 31-23 lead. A 7-0 run led by Francis Lopez in the second quarter put Nagoya ahead, 41-36. The teams traded baskets for the remainder of the period, with UST trailing by four, 46-42, at halftime. The back-and-forth battle continued in the third before Nagoya pulled ahead by six, 70-64, heading into the final quarter. Jumawan’s pull-up 3-pointer with 2 minutes left gave UST its first lead in the second half, 85-84. Nagoya responded with an 8-3 run to move ahead, 92-88, before Jumawan drained another triple to cut the deficit, but UST could not complete the comeback. Tres Tinkle led Nagoya with 24 points, while Lopez added 22. Akowe was named tournament MVP and earned a spot on the Mythical Five. Despite the loss, UST head coach Peter Martin praised his team’s fighting spirit. “‘Yong fighting spirit na lumaban, kahit na lamang na nang malaki ang kalaban, sana madala natin sa UAAP,” Martin told the Varsitarian. The Tigers will next compete in the Pinoyliga Cup – The Big Dance tournament before the UAAP Season 88 opens next month. CHARLES MARTIN A. MANALANG