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FridayFebruary 20, 2015

Volume 28Number 11

MORE INSIDE02 NEWS UPM students condemn Mamasapano tragedy 06 CULTURE Burning Bridges10 OPINION The First11 EDITORIAL Paghahatol12 FEATURES A War on Terror

02 NEWS Volume 28 Number 11February 20, 2015 | Friday

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COLLEGEBRIEFS

The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), in partnership with the Office of Student Services and Gender Program (OSS-GP), Sigma Alpha Nu Sorority, GABRIELA-Youth, the Organization of Area Studies Majors (OrgASM), and the CAS Student Council (CASSC) will be celebrating the Women’s Month this March. The activities will start on March 2 with exhibits along the CAS Little Theatre (LT) walk and a series of forums sponsored by the partner organizations. For more information, refer to the list of activities to be released by the OSS-GP.

ORGANEWS

The UP Manila University Student Council (USC) Culture and Arts Committee in cooperation with the Office of Student Affairs (OSA), Freshman Block Coordination Program, CASSC, College of Allied Medical Professions Student Council, College of Dentistry Student Council, UP Pharmaceutical Association (UPPhA), and the Nursing Student Council (NSC) will be holding the very first university wide UP Manila Fiesta on February 23-27 as a celebration of UP’s cultural heritage. For more information, follow their Facebook page or Twitter account named UP Manila Fiesta 2015.

The Organization of Area Studies Majors (OrgASM) will be having its 2nd Area Studies National Conference on March 10-11 at the Francis Senden Memorial Hall, Asian Social Institute, Leon Guinto, Malate, Manila. The one day entrance costs P350 and the two day rate costs P450. For inquiries and reservations, contact 09175275171.

UPM students condemn Mamasapano tragedyCalls made for justice and accountability

CARLO REY RESURRECCION MARTINEZ

The University of the Philippines (UP) Manila University Student Council (USC) led a candle-lighting ceremony in the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Oblation Garden on February 6 to condemn the deaths of 44 Special Action Force (SAF) officers in a military operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao.

Several student organizations such as the Sigma Kappa Pi fraternity, Sigma Delta Pi sorority, Gabriela UPM, Student Christian Movement (SCM), and National Network of Agrarian Reform Advocates (NNARA) Youth participated in the ceremony.

Metro-wide protest

The activities in UP Manila were part of a series of protests held by various organizations across Metro Manila. Candle-lighting activities were also held in University of Santo Tomas, University of Manila, San Beda College, and the Freedom Park in Quezon City, while noise barrages were held in the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) and UP Diliman.

Following the ceremony in the CAS Oblation Garden, the protestors proceeded to the Peace Arch in Mendiola to condemn the United States’ involvement in Operation Wolverine.

Subsequently, Anakbayan national chairperson Vencer Crisostomo reiterated their demands for President Aquino’s resignation.

“Sa labis na pagsunod ni Aquino sa dikta ng US ipinahamak niya ang buhay ng 7 na sibilyan, 44 SAF, 18 MILF, at 5 BIFF. Sapat na ‘tong basehan para umalis na sa puwesto ‘tong si Aquino

at dapat din panagutin ang US na nagdikta ng palpak na planong ito,” Crisostomo argued.

Botched operation

Operation Wolverine was a mission on January 25 to serve arrest warrants for Zulkifli Abdhir, also known as Marwan, and Basit Usman. Three platoons of the SAF killed a man believed to be Marwan, but were engaged in a firefight with members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF). The SAF lost 44 men, while the MILF and BIFF lost a total of 23 men.

Consequently, in an address on February 6, President Aquino reiterated his remorse for the loss of the SAF officers and promised to care for the families they left behind.

“Just as I was responsible for your loved ones, so too am I responsible for you; it is my duty to ensure that the sacrifices made by your relatives are repaid. My promise to you remains unchanged: During my remaining 17 months in office, I am doing, and will continue to do, everything I can to guarantee your families’ well-being,” Aquino asserted.

Aquino also expressed his sadness after accepting the resignation of Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Alan Purisima.

“For this reason, perhaps you will understand why I find it painful to see him leave the service under these circumstances... I thank him for his many years of service prior to this tragedy,” Aquino stated.

Furthermore, Aquino reiterated the need to focus on capturing Usman,

who remains at large.

“Now about Usman, let me point out the following: If he remains within your territory, or is protected by one of your members, we expect you to surrender him to the authorities. If not, we expect you to do everything you can to help capture him. And if even this is not possible, do not interfere with our pursuit of Usman,” Aquino stated.

eMpty proMises

Despite the President’s sentiments, Kabataan Partylist Representative Terry Ridon dismissed the address as simply being proof of his shortcomings as commander-in-chief.

“…President Aquino gave up his trump card – PNP Chief Alan Purisima – in a last-ditch effort to save his neck. Yet his second evening speech confirms what has already been reported by the media – that Aquino not only greenlighted the operation but was also responsible for its failure and the massive deaths,” Ridon argued.

Additionally, Ridon condemned Aquino for refusing to acknowledge the involvement of the US in the operation.

“The president did not even confirm nor deny the involvement of US forces in the botched operation. His speech tonight is nothing but an empty piece,” Ridon stated.

Moreover, Ridon asserted the need for Aquino to resign.

“Instead of warning about more aggression like what he did tonight, Aquino should follow Purisima’s example and resign pronto,” Ridon stated.

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ARTHUR GERALD BANTILAN QUIRANTE AND SOFIA MONIQUE KINGKING SIBULO

Universities and colleges across the nation still find it difficult to maintain their brand of quality education despite the government’s promise to prioritize education in the country, as shown by the continuous surcharging of schools from students.

Data have shown that in the past years, tuition fees in private higher education institutions (PHEIs), state universities and colleges (SUCs), and local universities and colleges (LUCs) grew in a significant amount.

According to a report by National Union Students of the Philippines (NUSP) Tuition Monitor last 2014, many PHEIs and SUCs had their tuition fees increased by not less than 3%. (See Tables 1 and 2).

SUCs, moreover, are still forced to implement tuition hikes to accommodate the inadequacy of their budget despite increasing fund appropriation by the government in the past years (See Table 3).

On the other hand, 171 PHEIs had their tuition fees increased last May 2014 following a go signal from CHED.

redundant, exorBitant, and duBious fees

The Education Act of 1982 allows the deregulation of tuition, a manifestation of the commercialization of education by the government. Worsening the status of education in the Philippines under Aquino’s regime is the CHED Memorandum Order 3, Series of 2012 which legalizes the collection of other school fees (OSFs).

OSFs are fees aside from tuition that are characterized as exorbitant, dubious and redundant. A visible example of OSF is the charging of a

physical education fee together with an athletics fee.

A research by the NUSP shows that any decrease in government subsidy for education pushes SUCs to pass to the students the cost of tuition. OSF is an epitome of the unending tuition and other fees increase (TOFI), which is experienced in almost all PHEIs, SUCs, and LUCs in the recent years.

“Testament to this (tuition increase) is the steady drop-out rates and the surging statistics on student loans... OSFs go in tandem with spiraling tuition rates to squeeze more funds from students and their families,” claimed Rise for Education (R4E) alliance.

The R4E is an alliance that believes accessible and affordable education is a right. R4E is allied with the NUSP, a nationwide alliance committed to the advancement of students’ democratic rights and welfare.

In the University of the Philippines, the de-facto tuition hike is masked by the Socialized Tuition Scheme (STS) which reformed the 23-year old Socialized Tuition and Financial Assistance Program (STFAP). The default tuition rate in the UP System is P1,500.00, which is higher compared to the P573.76 national average tuition.

Meanwhile, in line with the call for accessible education, a resolution proposed by the UP Cebu University Student Council for student councils in other UP units join the R4E was adopted during the 39th General Assembly of Student Councils (GASC) held at UP Cebu last January 9-10. The R4E has also declared February 27 as the national day of action against tuition and OSFs increases and the continuing deregulation of education.

Overpriced EducationTuition fees in tertiary schools continue to rise

ISKOTISTIKS

PHEI % IncreaseDe La Salle University - Manila 5%

DLS - College of St. Benilde 3.5%

University of the East 3.5%

Far Eastern University - Manila 5.6%

University of Santo Tomas 7-8%

Ateneo De Manila University 5%

National University 3-10%

San Beda College 15%Table 1: Percent increase in tuition fee of PHEIs. (Source: NUSP)

LUC % IncreaseUniversity of Negros Oriental 7.9%

CARAGA State University 25%

Central Mindanao University 40%

Ateneo de Naga University 5%

University of St. Louis Tuguegarao 15%

University of San Carlos 3-10%

DMMA College of Southern Philippines 5%Table 2: Percent increase in tuition fee of LUCs. (Source: NUSP)

Year Budget (in Billion Pesos)2005 17.508

2006 18.617

2007 19.344

2008 21.176

2009 23.926

2010 26.710

2011 27.999

2012 29.305

2013 34.924

2014 38.075Table 3: The budget of SUCs as the years pass by. (Source: Legislative Budget

Research and Monitoring Office)

sa pakiramdam ko, malamig at malinis ang simoy nito.

Sa pagbalik mo, laging naroon ang kagustuhang manatili ka nang permanente. Pero wala naman talagang nakakaalam ng mga ganitong bagay. Narito lang naman ang mga taong katulad ko upang

tapos tatambay, tapos dadaan ka pa sa puso ko, at doon na ako masisira. Nahulog na nang tuluyan si gaga.

Pero ayoko kong gumawa ng hakbang, ayoko ko kasi kaibigan kita. ‘Di ko kasi alam yung gagawin ko pag nalaman kong ‘di pala tayo pareho ng nararamdaman. ‘Di ko kasi alam yung gagawin ko pag naging awkward, pag di ko na narinig yung mga kwento mo, yung mga payo, yung boses mo. ‘Di ko alam yung gagawin ko pag nakasalubong kita tapos ‘di mo ko babatiin ng mainit mong ngiti, ng matamis mong “Hello.” ‘Di ko alam yung gagawin ko pag nawala ka sa

buhay ko.

At ngayon, muli na namang natagpuan ang sarili sa sangang daan.

‘Di ko na mabilang kung ilang beses nang napadpad sa gawing ito ng napakahabang paglalakbay sa buhay. Iba’t ibang dahilan, iba’t ibang panahon at iba’t ibang mukha na ang aking nakasama sa paglalakbay na ito. Sa haba ng nilakbay, sa puntong ito — ikaw naman ang kasama, ikaw ang nasa tabi ko.

At sa pagtahak na ito ng napakahabang daan ng buhay, kailangang pumili ng

tanggapin ang ibibigay mo sa amin. Ang tanggapin, at subukang namnamin ang bawat nota ng kanta, bawat ihip ng hangin, bawat pagbangga ng alon sa bato at buhangin ng dalampasigan. Dahil, sa mundo na puno ng konkreto at makina, bihira lang may dumating na abstrak at hindi kalkulado. Hangal na lamang ang hindi magpapasalamat.

Salamat at bumalik ka, pag-ibig.

* Walang ispesipikong kanta ang makahuhusga at makapaglalarawan sa pag-ibig

CROSSROADS MULA SA PAHINA 10

isang landas. Ang landas ng baku-bako, paliko-liko at walang kasiguraduhang pag-ibig, o ang tuwid at mahabang landas ng pagkakaibigan.

But now, I choose the latter path. UNTITLED* MULA SA PAHINA 10

UNTITLED* MULA SA PAHINA 10

04 NEWS Volume 28 Number 11February 20, 2015 | Friday

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ITANONG KAY ISKO’T ISKA

Pwede ring ipadala ang inyong mga sagot sa pamamagitan ng pag-text sa 09175109496! (Pero bawal ang textmate!)

1Dapat bang patalsikin si Pangulong Aquino dahil sa naganap sa

Mamasapano?

Di pa nagaganap yung sa Mamasapano, dapat pinatalsik na siya. - grumpycat, CAS

Sa totoo lang, sa tingin ko malaki din naman yung pagbabago. Pero hindi sapat upang masabing naging maganda ang administrasyon nya. - in lababo, CAS

Hindi dahil di naman niya kasalanan kasi nga misencounter - nakamoveonna, CASWalang pang Mamasapano, G na G na kong ipatanggal si PNoy. - 2014-Xxxxxxxx cas porkchop

IDC anymore. - reallydontcare, 2014-8**6, CAS

Matagal nang dapat napatalsik si PNoy at hindi lang dahil sa kadahilanang iyan. MAHABA ANG LISTAHAN. - Ahkay 2014-20355

Kailangan bang may rason pa upang patalsikin sya? - hoping, 2013-*****, CAS

Sa una palang, dapat di na siya tumakbo. Hiyang hiya naman ako sa kaniya! - UmaasaSaWala, 20**-****9

Pwede ko bang murahin na lang si PNoy dito? Pwede naman noh? Kung hindi man, P*t*n*i*a ka pa rin PNoy! - qtp2t, CAS

Oo, why not poknat panot - Tinapay, 2014-03797

Ano lang ba ginawa niya nung pagkaupo niya, kundi humugot ng humugot tungkol sa mama at papa niya, sobrang daming rason kung bakit dapat siya i-impeach. - manhid din. 2014 55889

May mapapatalsik ba? AY, MAY PRESIDENTE PALA?! - unLucky Me NAM2x, 201x-IXMXVI

Naman! Simulan niya nang mag-empake sa palasyo! - swish 41, CAMP, 2014-*****

Oo. Matagal nang dapat napatalsik si PNoy. - Tobias, CAS, 2012-24852

No, ‘cause I believe masasayang ‘yung sabong pinanghugas-kamay niya. - M.D., 201-*ioovi

Sa tingin ko, hindi pa siya dapat patalsikin hangga’t walang matinong papalit. - -Strigoi, 2012-XXXXX

Patalsikin, at magtiwala’t pagtulungan nating masa ang transitional government. - intellectual-hugot buddy, 2013-10016

Oo, pero hindi LANG dahil sa Mamasapano clash. Tumingin ka doon sa kanayunan at sa mga institusyong pinanghahawakan ng gobyerno - malalaman mo ang nacacaguimbal na dahilan. - prolet, naCAScas, 2014

Oo pero matagal na dapat siyang pinatalsik dahil sa pagpapabaya niya sa bayan. -

Legendre | 2012-04895

2Anong mensahe mo sa crush mo sa Araw ng mga Puso?

Pst. Labyu. - Tobias, CAS, 2012-24852

Walang silbing magpadala ng mensahe sa’yo. Hindi ka rin naman handang makinig. - Strigoi, 2012-XXXXX

Hi, buddy. Lagpas isang taon na ang paghangang ito. Crush pa ba ito? - intellectual-hugot buddy, 2013-10016

Sorry kung isa ‘kong malaking migraine. (huhu I lab you) - prolet, naCAScas, 2014

Sana hindi ka na lumingon nung iniwan mo ‘ko. Hanggang ngayon, ikaw pa rin talaga, kahit masaya ka na sa kanya. - Jejegurl, CAS, 2012xxxx7

Hindi sapat ang espasyo pa i-mensahe ko silang lahat. -Legendre | 2012-04895

Smile ka lang, parang ganito hahaha. - CAS ohtapos?

Hi ang cutieee mo kahit wala ka ng braces hay buhay :> - patglow, CAS, 2014-05844

Crush, pansinin mo naman ako. - SSH, 2013-54708

You always give my heart a reason to beat faster, may it be because of horror movies or just a hug. I hope that someday I’ll be able to do that same thing for you, make you feel just as elated as you make me. Here’s to us. - Eddie Maintenance, 2013-14696

“Di pa ba sapat ang sakit at lahat na hinding hindi ko ipararanas sa’yo?” - Zeej, 2013

Second sem na, wala ka pa ring pake? - you’re superman-hid , 2018-06969

Wala na. Tinitigilan ko na. Hirap talagang magmahal ng syota ng iba. - grinder, 2013-****, CAMP

Hello, Ja*****. Please be less cute cos it’s killing meeeeee. - Mary Goes Around, 2012when i see your face...theres not a thing that i would change... - mirrormirroronthewall, CAS, 201468605

Crush - Hangang tingin lang ako sayo, masyadong mahirap ka abutin -Louise, Cas

Sana tayo nalang.... HAHAHAH - Lol CAS 2014-57641

Notice me senpai. - Mardzter 2012 CN

Sabay nating isulong ang reb pls. - schadenfreude, 2012

Nakamove on na ako (pero pag nauna kang lumapit di rin ako tatanggi hihi) #LANDIPAMORE - gagraduate na si *toot* OrCom CAS

Mga Fulung-Vulungan ng nagjijisang

Lola PatolaEhrrmargerrdd mga afows ketchhh! Hallur! Ugh I’m so very sorry apologiezzz kasi namuhn nag-peprepare na aketch para sa Valentimezz chemerlut naming ng inyong Lolo! Ahihihi kinikilig aketch as in suffffer parang we’re like kidz agen pero like may pension na kami and 20% discount in everythaaang ahihihi! And kayo my afowss… I’m not gonna make askings na enimoaar kasi I knerr na wala kayong mga love life!!! BWAHAHAHA! Ayy just kidding! Books b4 boyz bcuz boyz bring babiezz? Oki? Mwah mwah! Enihuuu I have chikaaa pero not steamy chikaaa wala pang Valentimezz chill lungs mga afowws!

Love and other chismax numbah one!

Ay eto charot! Idk kung ilang timezz na siyang na-feature sa aketch column pero ayyy nakowz lagi itech may issue! You knerr this Pachuchu from Dehins Sumasanto sa mga Students ay nakoww! Diba my afowws’ grades have this like last day of passing da gradezz… Something liek dat! And den dis person ba namuhn made pahirap of my afowws hu needed der gradez asap! En another thing, mukhang mega dartz ang ginawa ditu! You knerr wat I’m sayin? Kasi my afowws said na same ung gradez ng bawat course! Der was dis two hu got dos, and ebriwan from dis other course got INC! What the watt?? U know

dis Pachuchu doesn’t teach na nga, nag-gigive pa ng gradez na unfair! Dapat i-check itech ng Dehins kasi wala namuhn magagawa ang aketch mga afowws kahit mag-reklamow and rally pa sila sa hrap ng desk nya!

Love and other chismax numbah two!

My gradwaiting afowws has dis dilemmuh. Itech kaseh dibuh dey have to pass and sass dis gradwaiting application stuffs ryt? Ang kaso mo dehins sila makakapag-apply kapag dehins pa bayad sa tuition feefee and ebri single as in single lyk u (Ahihi jokeee lungs) ebri single day ders dis penalty fee of three pesos or somethaaang. Eh hear me awt peepsss, dibuhh my afowws kenat peanut pay nga kasi dey have no money? Tapos wen dey do pay may additional payment na sa gradwaiting application? Say whaaat ano itech bumbay lungs? 5-6 ganerrn? Ugh you know my readerz sometimes lang talaguh mapapa-what the wat ka na lang sa sistema ryt?

So der u have it mah readerzz and mah afowws and ebriwan dat I lurve! I’m so in lurve kaze it’s the month of lurve! But you know I have a love lyf and u don’t

afowws ahihihihi joooke lungs. Liek I sed, and paulit-ulit aketch sa aking mga chinochorva na chenes,

bros b4 hoes becuzz hoes

bring herpes! C h a r o o o t ! Ahihihi!

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GAYLE CALIANGA REYNA

UPCD celebrates centennial yearCampaign for oral wellness of Filipinos launched

Commemorating a century of honor and excellence in the field of dental medicine, the University of the Philippines College of Dentistry (UPCD), led by the UP Dental Alumni Association (UPDAA), kicked off their yearlong celebration aimed at promoting the country’s oral health care last February 6.

one hundred years

Founded on February 8, 1915 as a department under the College of Medicine and Surgery, UPCD was among the earliest schools established in the university. In 1917, it became the School of Dentistry headed by Dr. Louis Ottofy, who eventually co-founded the International College of Dentists.

Following the massive damages caused by the Second World War, the School of Dentistry was closed from February to August 1945. But by October 1946, the school started offering the regular four-year course in Dentistry and finally became an independent unit, the College of Dentistry, on November 8, 1948.

UPCD was among the pioneer units that were moved to Diliman in 1949. It occupied a Quonset barracks vacated by the United States (US) Armed Forces on top of the hill where Vinzon’s Hall now stands. However, it was transferred back to Manila in 1954 due to the lack of patients.

By the turn of the decade, several improvements and acquisitions of facilities were undertaken. The Master of Science in Dentistry (Orthodontics) was implemented in 1989 and became a milestone for the college, as it was the first to offer a Dentistry graduate course in the country.

Currently, the college is divided into three departments namely the Basic Health Sciences, which takes charge of all fundamental courses; the Clinical Dental Health Sciences for the hands-on patients phase; and the Community Dentistry for the social and community dental courses.

‘sMile pilipinas’

In line with the centennial celebration, the UPDAA launched “Smile Pilipinas” (SP) as part of the campaign to uplift the deteriorating state of oral health in the country. Moreover, it served as a way to encourage the government to

also invest in oral health.

According to Jocelyn Tan, president and chief executive officer of SP, their focus is to start and shape the national dialogue on oral health. With nine in 10 Filipinos suffering from dental caries, she explained that the Philippines has the second worst rate of decayed, missing, and filled teeth in Asia.

Likewise, UPCD Dean Vicente O. Medina III said that seven in eight Filipinos have never been to a dentist. Based on the 2011 National Monitoring and Evaluation Network Survey done by the Department of Health (DOH), 87 percent or 83 million Filipinos are suffering from tooth decay.

In addition, studies done by the Fédération Dentaire Internationale (FDI) showed that the Philippines also have the highest rate of dental caries among children 3-5 years of age.

Tan and Medina both noted that oral health is not a priority among Filipinos, something that SP and UPCD wants to change as it could lead to various health complications.

“What we need to remember is that oral health is part of overall health. The body is an interconnected system and the mouth cannot be separated from the rest,” said Medina.

Among the programs spearheaded by SP are the Super Smile Con 2015, an oral wellness fair for kids that zeroes in on education, prevention and treatment; “Tubig para sa Kalusugan,” a campaign to promote water intake over sugary drinks; oral cancer screenings, community dental outreach, and “Libreng Pustiso.”

Furthermore, UPCD along with UPDAA will launch “Unang Ngipin Patibayin,” an outreach program for indigent kids aged 6 months to 6 years who will be given caries risk assessment, nutrition counseling, tooth brushing drills, dental health education, and necessary treatment for oral health problems.

The said programs were envisioned to run even after the centennial year celebration as part of the SP Advocacy. Moverover, the movement enjoins Filipinos to sign up and volunteer their efforts in improving not only oral, but also their overall health.

Lover’s DictionaryUPM Edition

RH Steps /lugar/Ayokong pumasok, ayokong lumabas. Nais kong manatili sa lugar na ito — kung saan kita unang nasilayan. Pigilan mo akong umalis, ikandado mo ang iyong mga daliri sa aking kamay. Dito sa hagdan, sa pagitan ng langit at lupa.

Rob /lugar/Masarap na mga pakiramdam, malamig na ihip ng hangin. Niligaw mo ako sa ligaya’t liwaliw. Hindi tiyak. Ganoon ako sa iyo, sa atin. Ngayon wala ring katiyakan kung nasaan ako. Nalilito na ako sa mundo mo.

Supreme Court /lugar/Kung ang tama ay ang ibigin ka, may dapat pa ba akong patunayan? Hangal lang ang haharap sa husgado upang ipaglaban ang ‘di kanya. At kung hindi ka pa rin akin, bansagan mo na rin ako bilang hangal.

PGH /lugar/Binugbog at sinaktan ng tadhana’t pagkakataon. Pero ayokong tumakbo patungo sa iyo. Minsa’y mas masaklap ang lunas sa sakit.

Tipunan /lugar/Magtampo tayo sa mga langgam, tuyong dahon at ugat. Inagawan nila tayo ng espesyal na lugar. Nilusob at sinakop nila ang dati nating tagpuan, tulad ng pagsulob at pagsuko natin sa katwirang hindi tayo ang nararapat.

Lord Chancy /pusa/Nawala. Namatay. Bumalik. Tila walang kamatayan, tila walang katapusan. Subalit mainam nang bumalik ang hindi naman dapat nawala sa simula pa lamang.

GabCaf /lugar/Wala na ba akong babalikan? Mahirap managhoy sa buhay kung dating kasama mo na ipinaglalamay. Mananatili ka na lang bang bahagi ng kasaysayan?

Oble Garden /lugar/Araw-araw akong dumadaan at araw-araw ko ring naaalala kung ano ako ngayon dahil sa iyo: halaman. Tulad ng mga nakatanim, batid kong daraanan mo lang din ako.

Photox /bagay/Paulit-ulit na sinasambit, kaya’t nawawalan ng kapit ang mga salita sa maputing balat. Palabo nang palabo ang kopya ko ng pangako mong ako lang. May kopya rin ba ang iba ng pangako mo?

Bluebook /lugar/Manipis, marupok at mura. Mga pananaw mong nagtulak na ilagay ako sa sulok kapag kailangan. Huwag mo na akong punuin ng mga hula. Maging sigurado ka sa mga sinusulat mo sa buhay ko. Panindigan mo ako.

SAIS /perwisyo/Sambit mo sa akin ang matatamis na salita sabay ng iyong pagdating. Kamakailan lang, hinarana mo ulit ako. Subalit ang tanging nadinig ko ay ang pagkiyok at pagsablay. Nais kong bumalik sa nakaraan. Marahil, malas talaga ang numerong sais.

Batcave /lugar/May misteryo, may dilim, may kakaibang takot na namamahay sa puso. Ayokong tahakin ang daang paroon. Hindi ako komportable sa mangyayari, baka hindi kita makita, o kaya nama’y iwan mo ako sa dilim.

read and download MKule issues atissuu.com/manilacollegian

like us on Facebook:facebook.com/ themanilacollegian

follow us on Twitter:@MKule

06 CULTURE Volume 28 Number 11February 20, 2015 | Friday

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Laging naroon ang pagtataka kung bakit ganoon ang pakikitungo mo sa akin, at ngayon nakuha ko na ang sagot. Saludo ako sa pinakita mong tapang nang aminin mong higit sa pagkakaibigan ang nais mo sa atin. Ramdam kong umaalab ang pagnanais mong hawakan ang kamay ko tuwing hinahatid mo ako sa sakayan ng dyip. Dinig ko rin ang tila martsang pagtibok ng iyong puso na tila handang hamakin ang lahat.

Kamangha-mangha man ang iyong pagiging maginoo, kailangan kong i-atras ang aking mga bisig. Hindi dahil sa upos ang aking pingkian, ngunit dahil nakapapaso ang katotohanan.

Minamahal kita sa mumunti kong paraan pero hindi sa paraan na gusto mong mangyari. Patawad, pero hindi talaga maaari.

Marahil ay nahulog ka sa pakikitungo ko sa iyo. Naging magaan ang pakiramdam natin sa isa’t isa, na tila lahat ay pwede nating sabihin. Subalit tulad ng ibang litrato, hindi dapat lahat ay nilalagyan ng kulay. Hindi naman maitatanggi na naging maligaya talaga ang ating pakikisama ngunit kung titimbangin: sapat bang nagkakasundo tayo bilang magkaibigan upang dalhin ito sa ligawan?

Hahayaan kitang magalit. May karapatan kang masaktan dahil mahirap pigilan ang kirot na kusang darating. Siguro, ang tanging magpapanatag sa’yo ay ang pagpapanatili ng pagkakaibigan natin — oo, mananatili akong nandito kapag kailangan mo ako, pero hangal ako sa pagsabing walang tuluyang magbabago. Mayroon ‘yan, ipinagdadasal ko lang na hindi lumobo ang problema.

Ayaw kong maging hadlang sa iyong mithiin. Ayaw kong masakal ka balang araw dahil sa mga batas kong hindi makatarungan, at sa nosyon kong dapat pantay ang pag-ibig. Masasakal kita dahil alam kong hindi kita mapapantayan. Naghahanap ka ng susi sa kulungan? Pwes, kadena akong hihila sa iyo pababa. Maghanap ka ng susi, at wag mong itali ang sarili mo sa siguradong kalungkutan.

Maghanap ka ng karapat-dapat para sa’yo. Komplikado ako. Isa akong bombang handang sumabog anomang minuto, at ayokong magutay ka nang pira-piraso. Ayokong mahulog ka dahil baka magulat ka na lang isang araw — iba ang itsura ko mula sa itaas ng banging pinaghulugan mo, malayo sa totoong itsura ko sa ibaba.

Upang mas makita mo pa ang ipinupunto ko, nais kong bumalik tayo sa realidad — sa realidad na may mga taong masasaktan kapag sinolo natin ang isa’t isa. Hindi man mga naiwang kasintahan, pwede namang mga kaibigan natin. Darating ang mga araw na tayong dalawa lang ang tatahak sa mundo, at maiiwan naman ang iba. Ayokong masuklam sila sa atin dahil sa mga planong hindi sila kasama, mga pag-aaway habang nariyan sila, at ang konseptong tila sa atin lang iinog ang daigdig.

Ayoko na rin kasing maulit ang nakaraan. Naranasan ko nang magmahal sa isang kaibigan. Hindi ito naging kanais-nais sa dulo. Halos pareho kaming may napipintong pagnanasa sa isa’t isa at nasa akmang pagkakataon para magkatuluyan. Ang pagkakamali: wala kaming wastong dahilan para magtagal. Sa pagiging magkaibigan lang kami babagay. Marami na akong sinakripsyo, at ayokong maisama ka sa listahang iyon.

Alam kong mahirap ang hinihiling kong wakasan ang nararamdaman mo nang ganoon-ganoon na lang. Subalit mas pipiliin ko ang matagal na pagsasama bilang magkaibigan. Sana maniwala ka — tubig ako kapag hawak-hawak, ngunit lason ako kapag nilulon. Ayokong masaktan ka, at ayoko ring saktan ang sarili ko sa pananakit ko sa iyo. Makakasama’t makakausap mo pa naman ako madalas. Tulad pa rin ng dati ang lahat, ngunit hindi na sa ilalim ng konteksto na may mahuhulog sa atin. Sawa na akong mahulog at lumagapak sa pagkabigo’t realidad.

Aakuin ko ang pagsisising sinira ko ang natitirang malasakit sa busilak mong kalooban. Gayunpaman, ibubulsa ko pa rin ang mga pangako ko sa iyong mahihiram mo pa rin ang tenga at mata ko, hindi nga lang ang puso.

Lahat naman ay may kakayahang umibig, ngunit hindi lahat ay handang manindigan.

Patunayan mo na kaya mong magpatuloy nang hindi ako magiging iyo. Isipin mong hindi ka nawalan ng pag-ibig, kung ‘di mas itinuro ka lang sa tamang landas. At alam ko, dararing ang araw, magpapasalamat ka sa akin. Wag kang iiyak, wag kang malulungkot. Wag kang makakalimot sa kwento ng pagmamahal at pagkabigo.

Totoo ang kwento nating dalawa, ngunit hindi nga lang ito kwento ng pag-ibig.v

When Friends Cannot Be Lovers

Pag-ibig nga ba ito?Masakit daw magmahal. Sa pagsayaw kasi ng dalawang magkaibang puso sa saliw musika, lagi’t laging may magiging saliwa ang galaw. Mayroong pusong mapapagod, at mayroong susuko. Tila paghiling sa hanging amihan, na hindi mo masiguro kung kailan iihip pabalik.Pero wala na sigurong sasakit at mas nakapapagal pa sa pagmamahal nang walang nakikitang katiyakan ng pagsukli. Isang uri ng pag-ibig na binigyan ng hatol ng kamatayan upang maging paralisado ang isang partido, at umayaw na sa hamon ng duwelo.Bakit nga ba hindi maaaring maging magkasintahan ang dalawang magkaibigan? Bakit nga ba hindi na maaaring maging magkaibigan ang dating magkasintahan?

JOSEF BERNARD SORIANO DE MESA

DIBUHO NI MARIA CATALINA BAJAR BELGIRA

BurningBridges

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I don’t know what I originally planned to tell you when I set about writing this. It just seems dramatic and self-indulgent now to suddenly want to say things after everything that’s happened, you know?

I don’t pretend ignorance to why you left, and why you won’t come back. Believe it or not, I never blamed you. We were a freight train headed towards the wrong direction, even from the start.

Admitting it out loud was one thing, but pulling the lever and stopping the inevitable disaster was another. I admired you for taking the reins on that one. We talked until all that needed to be said died with the light outside. I remember you holding my hand with

certain finality. I recall clinging back like a drowning man. Our words dispersed and became speckled ashes in the corners of my mind.

We did not say goodbye. That required too much fortitude we will forever lack.

You tried to lift me up that night. You promised you’d write, that you’d call; reassured me that if there’s another thing you know how to do—it’s how not to be awkward. You said that we could be friends, that you’ll still be there for me. I envied you for being such an adult. Sooner or

later, the letters came. The phone number I claimed to have deleted swiftly popped out of nowhere.

For months, we shared in the delusion that everything was not so bad after all, and we were still capable of bringing back everything to the way it was. I found myself in strange and uncharted territory. We went out for coffee several times, in our

favorite place, and our conversations gradually evolved from stilted to comfortable. I was surprised by how much I can still share and tell you and by your genuine keenness to spend time with me.

I suppose this doesn’t really explain the texts I hesitated to return, or the conversations you initiated and I hung up on (because I missed the sound of your voice and I don’t think I could’ve stopped myself from recording every note and nuance of it). Yes, I know I stopped coming by for coffee. Yes, I know we were doing so well.

My friends all said the same thing: you cannot punish someone for not wanting you anymore. You cannot bar your door forever and hate and hate and hate because they’ve stopped smiling at you like you always hung the moon for them. You have to accept and move forward and understand. You have to learn.

But they got one thing wrong—it isn’t hate at all. Love is the reason we try so desperately to remain in people’s lives, yet, it is exactly the same reason we should not.

The truth is, I just did not want to lose you. Part of me believed that we could still be in each other’s lives, in some capacity, big or small. It rang through my head that eventually you’ll come around, if I just waited long enough. That if one day you’ll decide you’ll need me again, I would still be here. And while the heart wants what it wants, sometimes it just doesn’t know best.

I soon learned that friendship cannot subsist merely on that. You have to understand that for years, I knew you in one context only, and friendship introduced a new facet of you—one I suppose I’m still not ready to meet.

It’s been months since we last talked on the phone, much less seen each other. I see you everywhere. You crop back up when I ride the train home and walk through that goddamn alley. I hear you in songs with high-pressured bass and plinking guitar, the ones you’ve told me to listen to about a million times over.

We still smile in a wooden frame on top of my bedside table. It never crossed my mind to throw the thing away, the thought too heavy, like stones in my pockets and pebbles in my shoes. But I might, who knows. Your smile mocks me. Mine laughs at my willingness to have my memories shackle me. I don’t think I can leave yet. I do not want to.

One day, perhaps, I might wake up and realize for myself that it doesn’t need to hurt anymore. It will be from that point forward, but no sooner, that I look back and see how far I’ve walked away from hope and belief that I can bring back what was once. Slowly, my fingers will unclench and I will be able to let you go.

Someday I’ll learn that some people are just meant to make cameo appearances, some are destined to be pithy footnotes in your life. I’ll understand that that’s okay. That not every person we love has to always stick around.

We could get a cup of coffee. We could sit and talk about all the funny things that happened with your old roommate and our long trips in that old truck, and the things we used to talk about doing but never ended up getting to. And maybe, just maybe, I’ll be able to turn back around and see what sort of friendship we can restore.

Until then — mail will come for you. People will still ask me how you are. Both will stop in time, and it won’t matter. They will eventually leave me alone in solitude. I hope they tell you that I’m doing okay without you. I hope you at least ask. But it doesn’t matter. I will make peace with this, somehow, someday.

We will pass each other in the street, across the crowded hall, and besides that glance, that polite nod of acknowledgement, we will part ways. Strangers. Whatever happens afterwards doesn’t matter.

But even if that day comes, just as the hearth cannot forget the fire that warmed its cold walls, I cannot forget you. I refuse to.

I wouldn’t have it any other way.

When Lovers Cannot Be Friends GABRIELLE MARIE MELAD SIMEON

Hindi naman mahalaga kung may matalo o manalo sa labanan na ito. Hindi magiging batayan ng tindi ng pagmamahal ang kung sino ang umuwing luhaan o may ngiti sa mga labi.

Huwad ang isang pag-ibig na hindi nabahiran ng mga sugat at mga luha. Mapanlinlang ang isang pagmamahal na hindi pinag-aksayahan ng pag-iisip sa kalaliman ng gabi, at paghitit sa ilang daang sigarilyo. Hindi pagmamahal ang isang pag-big na hindi ipinaglaban.

Walang kwento ng pag-ibig ang pinagkaitan ng sarili nitong dilim at lungkot, dahil tulad ng papel na ito, hindi makikita ang puti kung walang itim.

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Following the death of innocent lives and men in their respective lines of duty, the administration recognized no association or disclosure of a go signals, choosing to merely keep mum and keep as little the information broadcasted to the waiting and mourning public. Added to this was the president’s evident absence in the call of honors for those slain as it took place in Villamor Air Base. The president chose an inauguration of a motors company over that of the call of honors for those who served the country until their last breath—reasoning out that the event was simply not penciled in his schedule.

Political failure resulted to families left behind, crying for justice. And the Aquino government had done nothing but to show its callousness; it continuously engages itself in the blame game, without an iota of humility to accept its accountabilities.

The Mamasapano incident with the Muslim troops, particularly MILF and BIFF, has not only left casualties but also led to more oppression of the Muslim image in the country with the resurgence of anti-Muslim co m m e n ta r i e s and the call for an all-out war in Mindanao.

With this, it is important to restate that these Islamic fighters are bred by the continuous socio-economic inequities and discrimination towards the people of Mindanao. Agreements of peace have been time and again signed but the war continues so long as the deep roots of the armed conflict remain unaddressed. An all-out-war, therefore, does not only border in uncritical view of the issue, it is as insensitive as the chauvinism that has long been inflicted towards the Filipino Muslims.

With Aquino’s further negligence to the people’s call and his continuous obstruction of truth so as to mask his government’s inept decisions, his administration now exposes itself to an overthrow, as the blood-laden soil becomes the fertile ground of the people’s dissent. The police men, the traditionally loyal men to the executive will begin to turn their back against the corrupt leader and fight

for the cause of the oppressed. A war will be waged, to give justice for the fallen SAF44, to the victims of oppression, and for the freedom of the

country.

A WAR ON TERROR FROM PAGE 12

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ARIESKung kailangan lang ng reference person ng mga Wattpad writers about cheaters sa relationship, lagi kang magiging in-demand. Alam na this. #GoNegosyoTips

Lucky Number: 69Lucky Color: Regla RedLucky Soulmate: ‘Yung makakatabi mo sa urinal

GEMINI‘Wag kang feeling pogi/maganda, magpaligaw ka na sa taong nagtatiyagang lumandi sa ‘yo. #ButiNgaMayroonPaEh #feelingblessed

Lucky Number: 9 out of 10 consumersLucky Color: Kulangot GreenLucky Soulmate: ‘Yung unang magtatanong sa’yo kung may assignment

TAURUSGusto mo ng deep na advice about sa pagpapakatanga? Makinig ka kay Selena Gomez. Sabi niya, “The heart wants what it wants.” Hindi kasi heart eh --- hypothalamus beh, hypothalamus ang nagmamahal.

Lucky Number: Bracket E1Lucky Color: Burnik BlackLucky Soulmate: ‘Yung nag-photobomb sa groupie niyo kahapon ng 3:15 PM. Eksaktong oras ah, kapag 3:16 PM, sa best friend mo ‘yun.

CANCER“That’s the thing about pain – it demands to be felt.” Kaya kurutin mo lang nang kurutin ‘yung crush mo hanggang maramdaman niya existence mo.

Lucky Number: 1st ko si 3rdLucky Color: Pigsa YellowLucky Soulmate: ‘Yung pang-labintatlong nag-like ng DP noong November 2009 #KungUmabotSaGanoongBilang

LEOMaglaro ka ng Flappy Bird, at magkakaroon ka ng epiphany about yourself. Parehas kasi kayong frustrating at nakakapagod mahalin.

Lucky Number: 23 JumpstreetLucky Color: Chikinini MagentaLucky Soulmate: Yung prof mo. #awtsu #bawal #iyaknalang #taboo

VIRGOBitiwan mo muna ang readings mo. Minsan, kahahanap mo ng kasagutan sa mga libro, nandyan na pala siya sa harap mo, kumokopya ng notes mo.

Lucky Number: I am Number FourLucky Color: Kukurikapu GrayLucky Soulmate: ‘Yung natuluan mo ng laway noong nakatulog ka sa bus

LIBRAGusto mo bang maging kapaki-pakinabang? Punta ka sa Artic Circle. Sa lamig ng puso mo, mabubuhay ang mga polar bears sa isang buong siglo. Oh ‘di ba? Nakatulong ka pa sa environment.

Lucky Number: 2 WivesLucky Color: Plema Lime GreenLucky Soulmate: ‘Yung makakaagawan mo sa huling Tapa meal ng Rodic’s #OopsWalaNaPalangGABCaf

SCORPIOHindi porke’t sinabi niya na naaalala ka niya, eh mahal ka na niya. Paano kapag nakakita pala siya ng basura kaya naaalala ka niya, eh ‘di nainsulto ka pa.

Lucky Number: Camera 360Lucky Color: Almoranas VioletLucky Soulmate: ‘Yung unang hindi nag-care gumamit ng “proteksyon” sa ‘yo

SAGITTARIUSBinuksan lang ‘yung pinto para sa’yo, mahal mo na? Nireplyan ka lang with a smiley emoticon, gusto mo nang pakasalan? Ano ‘to galawang Yeng Constantino? Gawan mo na rin ng music video!

Lucky Number: 5.00Lucky Color: Tutuli TangerineLucky Soulmate: ‘Yung taga-MKule na nagcocover ng event #shamelessplug #yihieeee

CAPRICORNThere’s more to life than love. Huwag mo nang ipilit, matumal talaga lovelife mo ngayon. Asikasuhin mo na lang ‘yung INC mo sa Comm2.

Lucky Number: District 9Lucky Color: Hilaw Orange IsawLucky Soulmate: ‘Yung pangatlong walang sense ang sagot sa MDA #HuwagChoosy

AQUARIUSManuod ka ng That Thing Called Tadhana, bagay sa iyo ‘yun. Tutal, tatanga-tanga ka naman e. Saka similar yung nang title sa nangyari sa iyo: That Thing Called Umasa

Lucky Number: Ultra Lotto 6/58Lucky Color: Ipot BrownLucky Soulmate: ‘Yung pangalawang yumaya sa iyo um-attend ng ED

PISCESHuwag mo na siyang pakawalan kapag unang kita niyo pa lang eh sinabi na niyang, “Walang Forever.” Bihira ang taong hindi bulag sa katotohanan. Pero kahit anong gawin mo,

Lucky Number: 125, 600 minutes, 125, 000 moments so dearLucky Color: Sisid Pearl WhiteLucky Soulmate: ‘Yung makakapareha mo sa PE Social Dance

OPIUCHUSHiwalayan mo na yang jowa mo. Sayang ang oras mo sa araw-araw niyong pagde-date. Gamitin mo na lang sa acads, tutal, pagkatapos ng ilang buwan maghihiwalay lang din naman kayo. Priority mo dapat ang baguhin ang lipunan.

Lucky Number: 1989 – Deluxe EditionLucky Color: Nakaw GoldLucky Soulmate: ‘Yung nakatalo sa score mo noong midterms. Na-perfect niya. #sampalsaisangGC

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ABANTE BABAE!PATRICK JACOB LAXAMANA LIWAG

UPM NGA: VALENTINE’S DAY LIZETTE JOAN CAMPAÑA DALUZ

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THE FIRSTREBEL WITH A CAUSECarlo Rey Resureccion Martinez

U N T I T L E D *

BASAG-ULOLean Sandigan

Naririnig ko nang muli ang huni ng mga ibon sa karagatan ng nakakabinging busina’t harurot ng mga sasakyan. Ngunit, walang masyadong pagbabago. Ganoon pa rin ang indak ng mga dahon sa pagdampi ng amihan. Parehong galaw, parehong ihip ng hangin, parehong tanawin, pero may kakaibang pakiramdam ang lahat.

Taglamig din noong umalis ka sa akin. Ngayon, taglamig na muli. Matagal kang nawala, hindi ka nagparamdam, pero nakita kita sa iba’t ibang tao, sa iba’t ibang katauhan. Tila sinusuyo mo ako sa iba’t ibang saliw ng musika, at sa iba’t ibang higpit ng hawak mo sa aking kamay. Pinaglalaruan mo ako. Ako naman, bilang isang taong hinahanap ang kabiyak, ay sinubukang buhayin ang dalawa kong kaliwang paa.

Pero hindi pa rin kita naramdaman, hanggang sa dumating ka ngayon kasabay ng malamig na ihip ng Pebrero. Mula sa pabago-bagong anyo, nanatili ka ngayon bilang iisang katauhan.

Sa pagkakataong ito, nanatili ka sa isang taong may kakaibang sigla. Nasa loob ka ngayon ng isang katauhan na may kakaibang liwanag, tulad ng liwanag na dala ng madaling araw, may dalang init, ngunit hindi gaanong nakakasilaw. Tila wala kang dala bukod sa pag-asa ng mataimtim na umaga. Isang umagang gustong-gusto kong batiin.

Bumalik ka bilang isang katauhang nababalot ng misteryo. Subalit, hindi ka tuluyang nakalimutan — laging mayroong pamilyaridad at pagkakakilanlan. Katulad ng dati, gusto ko pa ring ibigay ang lahat para sa iyo. Gusto ko pa ring lamunin ka ng apoy na dala ng mainit kong mga yakap at halik, at gawin kang baliw sa pagnanasa sa akin. Gusto ko pa ring mapakinggan mo ang mga kuwento’t panalangin ko, tulad ng mga pamilyar na kanta ng ibon sa konkretong gubat na ito.

Sa pagkakataong ito, iba na ang lahat ng pakiramdam na umaalon tungo sa akin. Wala na ang maduming tubig-bahang gumagapang patungo sa kinaroroonan ko. Tanging mga tahimik na alon mula sa dalampasigan ang dumadampi. Minsan, may mga malalaking alon, pero hindi ako natitinag. Minsan naman, hinahayaan kong lunurin ako. Nandoon pa rin ang usok mula sa mabahong lungsod, pero

I thought you were the one.

Long before I even had an understanding of what love is or what it’s supposed to be, I had you. We grew up together. We spent days running around the school grounds without a care in the world. And I knew what I felt for you was real. We may have been young, we may have been innocent, but we were together and that alone made me happy.

We were best friends. I remember the times our teachers would reprimand us because even though we sat on opposite ends of the classroom, we still found ways to talk to each other, either by passing pieces of paper back and forth of making hand signals.

We were happy. We played games and cracked jokes. I had a lot of fears and doubts, but I felt safe with you. I felt like as long as you stood next to me, I could do anything and be anyone. I felt that because of you, I could take on the world.

But that was when we were young and naïve and innocent. The thing is, we don’t get to stay young forever.

We had to grow up and open our eyes to the real world. And as we grew

older, I started to see you in a different light. I began noticing your flaws and imperfections. It was as if the halo I always envisioned to be around your head faded, like the embers of a dying fire. I still loved you, though. So I did what I thought was right.

I held on.

There was a time, a brief time, that we drifted apart. We ran in different circles and dabbled in different things. But we were brought back together. I don’t believe in God, but I took that as a sign. Maybe it was the right time. Maybe it was the right moment for me to say what others have been saying about us, about my feelings for you, for a long time.

But I knew that you weren’t ready. I saw how you turned down your other suitor. I knew how you avoided him

and turned away from him. And I was so, so scared. I didn’t want everything we had between us disappear by my saying three simple but powerful words to you.

I let go.

I don’t know what was more painful: not being brave enough to pursue you, or not finding the strength to hold on any longer. It didn’t happen overnight, but I just realized one day that the yearning I felt so strongly for you was no longer there. The dream I held onto of us being together, of having the perfect ending to our 18 year story, was no longer possible.

I know you’re happy now. At least, I would like to think you are. I know I wasn’t always a good friend. I know there were times I hurt you, and there were times when you hurt me too. But I did love you. I did want you more than anything in this world.

We have drifted apart even more now. We rarely talk and only see each other once every few months. I don’t know if you still think of me, or care about me. But you will always be my first love. You will always be the girl who, for more than a decade, held my heart.

CROSSROADSTIME CAPSULEElizabeth Danielle Quiñones Fodulla

At ngayon, muli na namang natagpuan ang sarili sa sangang

daan.

‘Di ko na mabilang kung ilang beses nang napadpad sa gawing ito ng napakahabang paglalakbay sa buhay. Iba’t ibang dahilan, iba’t ibang panahon at iba’t ibang mukha na ang aking nakasama sa paglalakbay na ito. Sa haba ng nilakbay, sa puntong ito — ikaw naman ang kasama, ikaw ang nasa tabi ko.

Unang beses palang kitang nakita, tumatak na agad sa akin ang iyong ngiti. Kasabay nito, pinahanga mo rin ako sa iyong masikhay na pagkilos, matibay na pagkapit sa prinsipyo at galing sa pakikipagkapwa-tao. Kumbaga sa pageant, ikaw na nga ang Miss Congeniality.

Nagkasama pa tayo sa iba pang mga pagkakataon, minsan pa nga ay tinanong mo ako, “Oh kamusta na kayo ni *toot*?” muntik nang masira ang pagtingin ko sa ‘yo noon. Sa isip ko, “Ang insensitive naman nito,” pero hindi, nakabawi ka agad, pinaalala mo sa akin na pwede naman akong

magsalita, sabihin sa lahat ang totoo kong nararamdaman.

Your sensitivity towards the feelings of others, even to someone you are not really close to, made me realize how different you are. Cliché as it may seem, you are not just another pretty face — your principles, how you

translate your words into actions, your sensitivity made you stand out from the rest of them.

Bukas kang magkwento tungkol sa buhay mo, wala kang trust issues, kumbaga, walang tinatago, walang kasinungalingan. Kahit nga mga kalokohan mo kinukuwento mo. You really don’t care if people would judge

you. It seems that you want others to learn from your experiences, for you to give advices you deem appropriate, and then you want them learn from your mistakes.

Walang tahimik na oras pag kasama ka. Sa tuwing nagkakasama tayo, may bago akong natututunan sa ’yo — gawaing organisasyon man, sports, driving, gala, kahit katorpehan ko tinuturuan mo ko maigpawan eh. Sabi mo pa nga eh, “Pag may chance ka, grab the opportunity.” Pero kung alam mo lang ung sumasagi sa isip ko tuwing sinasabi mo ‘yun sa akin, aanuhin ko naman yung tyansa at pagkakataon kung ‘di naman ikaw yung nagbigay sa akin noon.

Mula sa konting pagsasama, konting kwentuhan, konting asaran. Di maiwasang mahulog na nga ang loob ko sayo.

Mula sa paghanga, mula sa crush. Nahulog na nga ako. Kahit anong tanggi kong nahuhulog na ko sa’yo, kumukontra ang tadhana. Lagi ka ba namang dumadalaw sa panaginip ko,

“I DIDN’T WANT EVERYTHING WE HAD BETWEEN US DISAPPEAR BY MY SAYING THREE SIMPLE BUT POWERFUL WORDS TO YOU

“‘DI KO ALAM YUNG GAGAWIN KO PAG NAWALA KA SA BUHAY KO

IPAGPATULOY SA PAHINA 02 IPAGPATULOY SA PAHINA 02

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SA PANGALAWANG PAGKAKATAON napapanday ang mga desisyon

ng korte. Malinaw na mayroong pagkakamali ang administrasyon, ngunit hindi ito nangangahulugan ng pagkamit ng hustisya.

Nang sumabog ang kontrobersiya patungkol sa Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP), lumihis ang tingin ng bayan sa korapsyon, tungo sa pangulo at mga gabinete nito. Nahati ang bansa sa tunggalian ng mga interes — ang administrasyong Aquinong nagtutulak ng hangganan ng kanyang kapangyarihan, at ang taumbayang nagtatakda ng limitasyon sa kapangyarihang ito. Ang desisyon ng Korte Suprema ay tila naging isang pagsusulit, na magbibigay ng puntos sa kung sinoman ang may tamang interpretasyon sa Saligang Batas, tamang ipinaglalaban na interes.

Subalit pagkatapos nang ilang buwan, nagsalita na ang batas, at dapat nang parusahan ang mga nagkasala.

Noong Pebrero 03, 2015, naglabas ng panibagong desisyon ang Korte Suprema, patungkol sa naging paunang hatol nito sa constitutionality ng DAP noong nakaraang taon. Ito ay matapos malantad noong 2014 ang kahina-hinalang pagmamaniobra ni Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad sa P144.3 bilyong pondo ng pamahalaan sa 116 na proyekto mula 2011 hanggang 2013. Ayon sa administrasyong Aquino, ang naturang salapi ay katumbas sa isang “savings” na “natipid” umano ng pamahalaan mula sa mga hindi napapakinabangang programa ng gobyerno.

Sa panibagong desisyon ng Kataastaasang Hukuman, pinanindigan nito na paglabag sa Saligang Batas ang naging pakahulugan ng administrasyon sa “savings,” na hindi umano alinsunod sa patakarang itinalaga ng General Appropriations Act (GAA) at walang pahintulot mula sa National Treasurer. Iligal din umano ang paglilipat sa “savings” na ito sa mga programa at kawanihang hindi sakop ng ehekutibo. Sa kabila nito, binawi naman ng korte ang naging paunang paglalagom nito sa constitutionality ng pag-uukol ng administrasyon ng pondo para sa mga proyektong hindi nakabilang sa GAA. Ayon sa korte, ang pagdagdag ng pondo ng ehekutibo sa mga natatanging proyektong hindi nakasama sa GAA ay malaya nang magagawa ng pamahalaan.

Bukod dito, may ilan pang mga desisyon ay naging pabor sa pamahalaan, tulad ng paglinaw na ang mga proyekto at programang pinondohan ng DAP noon ay ligal. Dahil dito, mas tumibay ang paniniwala ng administrasyong Aquino na “in good faith” ang DAP.

Ngunit, ang desisyon ng Korte Suprema ay hindi maaaring gawing palusot upang matakasan ang pagtugis sa mga anomalya at pagkakamaling kinahaharap nila. Ang desisyon ng Korte Suprema ay nagpatibay lang ng isang bagay — mali ang patutunguhan ng bansa sa tuwid na daan. Isa rin itong patunay na hindi laging malulusutan ng “good faith” ang panlilinlang at pagnanakaw sa pera ng

bayan.

Sa panibagong desisyon ng hukuman, lalo lamang dapat igiit ng mga Pilipino ang pananagot ng administrasyon sa mga hinagpis na idinulot nito sa bayan. Dapat pang paigtingin ang panawagan, lalo na ngayon na idineklara ng korte na malaya ang Pangulo na mag-ukol ng karagdagang pondo sa mga espesyal na programa nito, kahit hindi kasama sa napag-desisyunan sa GAA. Ibig sabihin, kahit walang pahintulot ng Kongreso ay maaaring panghimasukan ng Pangulo ang kapangyarihan ng lupon ng mga kinatawan na pagdesisyunan ang badyet ng pamahalaan. Ito ay isang malinaw na paglabag sa prinsipyo ng pagkakapantay-pantay at pagkakahati ng tatlong sangay ng pamahalaan, bukod pa

sa kawalan ng mekanismo para sa checks and balances.

Bukod sa desisyon ng korte tungkol sa pagiging iligal ng DAP, dapat matuto rin ang mga mamamayan na maging kritikal at subukang tignan ang ipinagmalalaking epekto ng mga priority projects sa pag-unlad ng ekonomiya ng bansa. Dapat ding tignan ng mga mamamayan na anomang pagmamalaki ng pamahalaan sa ekonomiya ng bansa, hindi ito lubusang mararamdaman. Ang kabagalan ng takbo ng ekonomiya ay makikita rin naman sa dami ng mga walang trabaho, gayundin sa mabagal na pagpapabuti ng standards of living ng mga Pilipino.

Kailangang mabatid ng pamahalaan at

ng taumbayan na ang DAP ay hindi dapat ilimita sa usapin ng kung sinong partido ang may tamang interpretasyon ng mga batas – ang DAP ay manipestasyon ng kakayahan ng pamahalaang paikutin ang mga batas at mga opisyal ng pamahalaan para sa mas malawak na sakop nito ng kapangyarihan. Ang DAP ay dapat magsilbing babala at signos sa mas ganid at mas makasarili pang mga galaw ng pamahalaan.

Hindi dapat magpadala ang publiko sa hokus pokus na interpretasyon ng palasyo sa naging desisyon ng Korte Suprema. Sa kabila ng mga pagbabago sa naunang pagkilatis, malinaw ang naging pagsusuri ng hukuman sa DAP: ito ay isang paglabag sa Saligang Batas. Hindi dapat magpaloko

ang sambayanan sa pagliliko ng palasyo sa tunay na isyu patungkol sa DAP: dapat na managot ang mga administrasyong Aquino.

Ang Saligang Batas ay ginawa upang itakda ang limitasyon ng isang pamahalaan sa kapangyarihang maaari nitong gamitin. Ngunit, sa isang sistemang nakakayang baluktutin at kasangkapanin ang Konstitusyon upang higit na mapalawig ang kapangyarihan at mapunan ang personal na interes, walang ibang makakapitan ang mga mamamayan kung hindi ang kanilang lakas at pagkakaisa.

Hinog na ang panahon para maitaboy ang mapagsamantala, at mamamalas ang tunay na pagbabago.

DAPAT NA MANAGOT ANG ADMINISTRASYONG AQUINO

paghahatol

LIZETTE JOAN CAMPAÑA DALUZ

EDITOR-IN-CHIEFAngelo Dennis Aligaga Agdeppa

ASSOCIATE EDITOR FOR INTERNAL AFFAIRSPatrick Jacob Laxamana Liwag

ASSOCIATE EDITOR FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRSElizabeth Danielle Quiñones Fodulla

MANAGING EDITORCarlo Rey Resureccion Martinez

ASSISTANT MANAGING EDITORJennah Yelle Manato Mallari

NEWS EDITOR Ronilo Raymundo Mesa

FEATURES EDITORAngelica Natividad Reyes

CULTURE EDITORJamilah Paola dela Cruz Laguardia

GRAPHICS EDITORLizette Joan Campaña Daluz

NEWS CORRESPONDENTSEzra Kristina Ostaya Bayalan

Adolf Enrique Santos GonzalesEunice Biñas Hechanova

Gayle Calianga Reyna

FEATURES CORRESPONDENTSLiezl Ann Dimabuyu Lansang

CULTURE CORRESPONDENTSJose Lorenzo Querol Lanuza

Thalia Real Villela

RESIDENT ILLUSTRATORSDaniel John Galinato Estember

Princess Pauline Cervantes HablaJoanne Pauline Ramos Santos

RESIDENT PHOTOJOURNALISTJenny Mary Camama Dagun

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Illustration by Jamela Limbauan Bernas

The Cover

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and Writers’ Organizations

On the twenty-fifth of January 2015, three platoons composed of forty-five men entered Tukanalipao, Mamasapano; leaving with only one survivor.

In the wee hours of the morning, the commandos crept into the town, backed up by a minute number of policemen from the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) unit. The plan enlisted the help of battalions from the United States and decided to keep the military out of the operation.

The elite force closed the distance, in order not to disrupt the town and have civilians stuck in the anticipated exchange of bullets. Upon entering the perimeter of the territory, where the two terrorists reportedly resided, the commandos were ambushed by members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), their blocking force ultimately failing, and received fires from both the BIFF and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). Reinforcements from the seaborne and airborne battalions also failed, and the elite forces were left to be blown and shot into smithereens.

The eleven-hour battle that resulted to casualties of a great number, with forty-four men from the SAF, one soldier from the US Army, eleven men from the MILF, eight civilians and five men from the BIFF. The military refused to send in reinforcements, stating that it would've further endangered more lives and that it would result to the failure to comply regarding the raised ante of the peace agreement with the MILF.

The lack of intelligence and coordination resulted to the bloodbath that bore no other outcome but the reported death of Marwan, reasoned out by the administration as a mission accomplished—despite the spared lives and sacrifice ushered by the fallen forty-four.

T H E E N C O U N T E RThe operation was known as “Oplan Wolverine,” set out to capture the

alleged world terrorists hiding in the country — later identified as a huge oversight that resulted to a bloody mass destruction.

The Mamasapano incident, which elicited massive reaction from Filipinos all-over the nation, was said to have begun when Philippine National Police Special Action Force (PNP SAF) chief Police Director Getulio Napeñas and Philippine National Police chief Director General Alan Purisima hatched the plan that, optimally, would exterminate alleged Malaysian bomb maker and terrorist Zulkifli bin Hir, aliased Marwan. The conception of the plan revolved around the capture of not only one but two terrorists: Marwan and Usman. Abdul Basit Usman is the alleged Filipino counterpart of Marwan, trained by the Jemaah Islamiyah terror network and branded as the most wanted Muslim terrorist in the Philippines.

Initially, the operation might appear as one of the government’s actions to preserve national security. However, the operation had several suspicious elements which made it present itself as highly questionable. For one, it is a big question

as to why Purisima had been one of the architects of the o p e ra t i o n when he was already suspended at the time. Moreover, it is also naïve to think that the government was not able to comprehend the consequences this military action might bring to the peace process. The answer to these questions, however, might be given by this single fact: Marwan and Usman, together, had a $7,000,000 bounty on their heads, warranted by the government of the United States. With this hefty reward, it is now reasonable to assume that self-interest

is what had fuelled the proceedings of the plan, albeit lack of definite intel and tremendous unreadiness, albeit the apparent danger it poses to the police forces and the potential consequences it will bring to the peace process.

The Aquino administration did not just jeopardize the decades of peace talks between the Philippine Government and the secessionist movements in Mindanao, particularly the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), it also delivered 44 of its policemen into their graves — all in the name of greed and subservience to the United States.

T H E D E F E A TOnce news of the undercover operation that went awry rose to the surface, so did news of the alleged killing of Marwan. A photo of his

body, shot and bloody, came to light, but no physical evidence of the body that was reportedly slain. The only statement that cemented this claim was a high likelihood of the suspect being neutralized, despite Usman’s speedy escape.

A WAR ON TERRORT H E P L I G H T O F T H E M AM A S A PA N O FA L L E N 4 4

JOLEEN AIRA RESTERO ESTELLA AND KATRINA MARIA LIMPIADA PEROLINO ILLUSTRATION BY JOANNE PAULINE RAMOS SANTOS

CONTINUED ON PAGE 08