IDEOPRAXIST VOL. 1 FIRST ISSUE

Sigaw ng kabataan: PNP-AFP, LAYAS!

EDITORIAL FEATURE

Krusadang Komyut: Mga

page 2-3 page 8-9

Defiant and Fierce: PUP Lady Radicals seizes 2nd place in 29th NCRAA

page 11

‘Collective approach conquers red-tagging’ - Red Alert speakers

IDEOPRAXIST

(n.) one who is impelled to carry out an idea

BAJ 1-1D EDITORIAL BOARD A.Y. 2022-2023

Mary Rose Maligmat EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Neildrich Barbosa

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Piolo Cudal MANAGING EDITOR

Maicah Rachel Eugenio HEAD COPYREADER

Francesca Rose Bacordo

Jaycel Dela Cruz

NEWS EDITORS

Ryan Jericho Quito SPORTS EDITOR

Ma. Elca Andrea Grengia CHIEF PHOTOJOURNALIST

Jan Mike Cabangin LAYOUT ARTIST

Glaciane Kelly Lacerna Randzmar Longcop CARTOONISTS

Ghilieah Valeska Tabbada

Mikaelah Bianca Panopio COPYREADERS

Katrina Lazarra

Charlize Andrea Fortunado

Charmie Rose Cepe

Mary Grace Cortez

Rejina Mae Aniano

NEWS WRITERS

Dave Carlos Jacinto

Aaron Ernest Cruz

Jane Andes

SPORTS WRITERS

Aries Altavano

Shannia Angel Cabuello

PHOTOJOURNALISTS

Asst. Prof. Prestoline S. Suyat, MC ADVISER

Sigaw ng kabataan:

Sa nakasasakal na lipunan, tanging sa paaralan natatagpuan ng mga Iskolar ng Bayan ang kasarinlan. Mga magaaral pa lamang ngunit nakukulong na sa kabikabilang suliranin. Minsan napipilitan pang kumapit sa patalim. Sa papuslit na pagtanggal ng PUPDND Accord, kinikitil ang kalayaan nilang ipaglaban ang kanilang panawagan bilang biktima ng kahirapan dulot ng bulok na sistema ng pamahalaan.

Ang PUP-DND Accord ay isang kasunduang nilagdaan ng dating pangulo ng PUP Nemesio Prudente at dating Department of National Defense (DND) secretary Fidel Ramos noong 1990. Ipinagbabawal nito ang kahit na anong operasyon o presensya ng pulis-militar sa loob ng kahit anong sangay ng pamantasan upang maiwasan ang mga pagmamalabis ng awtoridad tulad ng nasaksihan sa pinatalsik na rehimeng Marcos Sr. Saka lamang pinahihintulutan ang presensya nito kung may permiso mula sa administrasyon ng unibersidad at kung may nangyayaring krimen sa loob.

Bago ang kasunduang ito, malayang nakapapasok ang pulis-militar at dumadampot ng mga progresibong magaaral at propesor na kanilang tinataguriang “subersibo.”

Kahawig ito sa 1989 UP-DND Accord na naunang napawalangbisa noong Enero 15, 2021. Naging katalista sa pagkakaroon ng mga kasunduang ito ang pagkakadakip ng pulis-militar kay Donato Continente, isang staffer ng Philippine Collegian, sa loob ng Vinzons Hall ng Unibersidad ng Pilipinas (UP). Kalakip ng pagkawala ng Accord ang pangamba na maulit ang mga pandarahas tulad nito.

Mahigit isang taon ang lumipas bago ipinaalam sa mga mag-aaral ang unilateral na abrogasyon ng PUP-DND Accord

o Prudente-Ramos Accord noong Enero 19, 2022. Kaya kinokondena rin ang kakulangan ng transparency ukol sa usaping ito.

Bahagi na ng reputasyon ng Politeknikong Unibersidad ng Pilipinas (PUP) ang pagiging isang progresibong institusyong sinasandigan ng militanteng aktibismo at demokratikong espasyo. Nakasaad sa 1987 Philippine Constitution na ang pang-akademikong kalayaan ay dapat na natatamasa ng matataas na institusyon tulad ng PUP. Malinaw na ang kasunduang ito ay konstitusyonal at itinaguyod upang maprotektahan ang kalayaan sa pamamahayag, malayang espasyo sa pagkatuto, at seguridad sa loob ng pamantasan kahit ano pa man ang ideolohiyang pinanghahawakan.

Dahil sa militanteng aktibismo, lumawig ang demokratikong espasyo ng mga mag-aaral ng PUP kung saan sila ay may kalayaang makisangkot sa mga sosyo-politikal na diskurso. Naging lunsaran ito upang makalubog sa masa. Marami na ring napagtagumpayan dahil sa mga “rallyrallylang.”

Isa sa mga tradisyon ng PUP ang pagsusunog ng mga sirang upuan bilang protesta sa bulok na komersyalisadong sistemang pang-edukasyon. Matatandaang isinagawa ang mga protestang ito noong 2010 at 2013 laban sa nagbabadyang tuition fee increase. Isang tagumpay ang pagkakapasa ng Republic Act 10931 o Free Tuition Law noong 2017 sapagkat naidulog sa gobyerno ang pangangailangan ng mga mag-aaral ng aksesableng edukasyon sa pamamagitan ng protesta. Bagamat hindi pa nito nasosolusyonan ang kabuuang sistemikong suliraning ito, maituturing pa rin itong isang malaking hakbang. Makikitang nakatutulong ang protesta upang maiparating sa gobyerno ang mga pangangailangan ng bayan. Sa abrogasyon ng PUP-DND

rebolusyonaryong tradisyon ng Sintang Paaralan. Nagdudulot ng “chilling effect” sa mga estudyante ang presensiya ng pulis-militar. Nakamarka sa ating madugong kasaysayan ang karahasan ng pulis-militar na patuloy pang umiigting sa bagong kabanatang ating isinusulat. Kung mawawala ang pag-alab na ito, hindi natin mapagtatagumpayan ang mga sigaw ng bayan.

Noong Martial Law ng diktaduryang Marcos Sr., saksi ang mga kalsada sa kalipunan ng pulisya sa “pagpapatupad” ng batas na kapalit ang pagtapak sa karapatang pantao. Mahigit 100,000 katao ang naiulat na inabuso, pinatay, at hinubaran ng karapatan.

Kabilang sa mga numerong ito ang anim na namatay at daandaang sugatang mga mag-aaral at pesante sa serye ng mga demonstrasyong tinaguriang First Quarter Storm. Taliwas sa ipinipinta ng administrasyon, dala-dala sa pakikibakang ito ang hinaing ng lumalalang sitwasyong ekonomikal at nagtataasang matrikula sa mga pamantasan na siyang sinalubong ng marahas na dispersal.

Sinasalamin ng kasalukuyan ang nakaraan, tulad na lamang ng presensya ng pulis sa isang payapang mobilisasyong idinaos para sa Pride Month sa PUP Main Campus noong Hunyo 28, 2023. Kinuhanan nito ng litrato ang mga lider-estudyante at mga nagpoprotesta, isang paglabag sa mekanismo ng

Isa pang isyu ang nagbabadyang paginstitutionalize ROTC, kung saan mas lalalim ang penetrasyon ng pulis-militar sa akademya. Sa macho-piyudal na kalikasan ng militar, lalong iigting ang mga gender-based issues na maaaring magresulta sa diskriminasyon at

PNP-AFP, LAYAS!

kababaihan at sangkabaklaan.

Kung hahayaan lamang ito, maaaring mauwi pa ito sa mas malalalang abuso tulad ng mga ilegal na pag-aresto at panggugulo sa mga payapang demonstrasyon. Maaaring mas maraming mag-aaral na parte ng mga progresibong grupo ang maging biktima ng mga gawagawang kaso.

Ayon kay Duterte Youth Rep. Ducielle Cardema noong 2021, ang UP at PUP-DND Accord ay isang “special treatment” na “inaabuso” umano ng mga “makakaliwang grupo” upang hindi makasuhan sa kanilang mga “seditiousacts.”

Ngunit taliwas ito sa tunay na

makapang-abuso at tanggalan ng akademikong kalayaan ang kabataan.

Ito ay pagkitil sa right to assembly at freedom of speech ng mag-aaral, lalo na sa kasalukuyang klimang politikal na talamak ang red-tagging Lalong iigting ang pag-abuso sa kapangyarihan sa sandaling tuluyang pasukin ng pulis-militar ang pamantasan.

Ang pagpapawalang-bisa ng Accord ay isang malaking hambalang sa karapatang pumuna at magprotesta sa kamaliang ginagawa ng mga nasa kapangyarihan.

Ang kailangan ng Sintang Paaralan ay budget increase

“

Tulad ng mga naglalagablab na silya, hangga’t may nananatiling bulok sa lipunan, mayroon at mayroon pa ring mag-aalab.

Sa mapagmalabis na awtoridad, pilit na ikinukubli ang dunong na makamasang lipunan ang tanging hinahangad.

Ang akademya ay ang aming sangtuwaryo. PNP-AFP, layas!

DEFYING RED-TAGGING

‘Collective approach conquers red-tagging’ - Red Alert speakers

Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) College of Communication Student Council (COC SC) hosted the forum “Red Alert: Dangers of Red Tagging and Union Busting to Press Freedom” on Monday, May 8, following the Labor Day and World Press Freedom Day.

Kat Dalon, UP Diliman Student Council (UPD SC) and Lumad representative, revealed daily harassment by 1500 military forces to displace the Lumad community from their ancestral lands, limiting social mobility and food access as well as endangering culture.

Despite the government promoting free education, Dalon highlighted that it is still a privilege to many. She remains hopeful for the restoration of Lumad schools, also intending to return to her community after education to inspire their continued

Bulatlat Editor-in-chief Ronalyn Olea discussed how red-tagging limits the role of journalists as watchdogs under the new administration.

“We are not ‘He Said, She Said’ journalism. It is our job to be critical,” Olea emphasized journalists’ critical role as voices for the voiceless.

Community Pantry PH founder Patricia Non narrated how redtagging also affects ordinary citizens, criticizing how the government instilled fear among Filipinos during the COVID-19 lockdown. She also noted the apathetic nature of red-tagging for struggling Filipinos. Those who conducted similar relief programs were red-tagged back in including herself.

To conclude, Dalon challenged the Ito ang panahon para reflection ng totoong nangyayarikayabigyannatinngboses angmgawalangboses,” Non stressed empathizing towards the masses.

Olea highlighted that collective action, regardless

SHOUT FOR EDUCATION

PUP, other groups protest over tuition fee hike

“Stop tuition and other fees increase!”

These were the highlighted calls of student leaders from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), together with students from various state and private universities and other youth formations in the country, during the mobilization held in front of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in Diliman, Quezon City on April 28, 2023.

The staged protest was held against the proposed

fee hike by CHED and the bill seeking to make the Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) mandatory in college, which is now one of the priority bills to be passed by Congress.

Alongside these calls, the PUP community also registered their calls for budget increase, security from state attacks, power outage solution, and the reinstatement of the PUPDND Accord.

PUP College of Communication Student Council (COC SC) prexy Ronjay Mendiola stressed that

the youth have no future under an administration that knows nothing but to bathe in money.

He bluntly added, “[Pakipot] nang pakipot ang access [sa] edukasyon na dapat natatamasa nating lahat nang libre. Sa pamamagitan ng ating pagkilos, patuloy nating nakikita ang malakas na pwersa ng mga liderestudyante mula sa PUP at sa iba’t ibang pamantasan sa

Recently, it was discovered that the PUP-DND Accord has been unilaterally terminated

COMBATING DISINFORMATION

‘Reclaiming the narrative’: COC SC holds fact-checking event

Following the International Fact-Checking Day, PUP College of Communication Student Council (COC SC) launched “Full House: Exploring the Cornerstones of Truth,” part of the “Spill The Truth” series featuring human rights activists and student leaders, on April 17 at Tanghalang PUP.

COC SC prexy Ronjay Mendiola commenced the morning session by imparting that through the involvement with the masses, the youth can effectively defend the truth.

Aaron Ernest Cruz and Katrina Lazarra emphasized the public’s role in resisting historical distortion, stressing that narrative building is as important as factchecking.

Labor rights lawyer Atty. Luke Espiritu asserted that the fight against tyranny and oppression is an inherent right, and the masses should disallow the state from making this right “illegitimate.”

“Red-tagging is not just simple labeling; it is branding [...] to suppress, [...] to harass, and [...] to kill,” Espiritu on the dangers of red-tagging amid the rampant misinformation.

“Ang masa ang tagapaglikha

Given its visual and emotive nature, illustrator Cartoonist Zach highlighted the power of memes to creatively debunk misinformation while engaging audiences with short attention spans.

According to Explained PH Editor-in-chief Archie Bergosa, the media should reclaim the power to tell stories despite the threats, especially the most critical of the news.

Kabataan Partylist National Executive Vice President Renee Co called for solidarity amid the trolling targeted towards progressive groups.

While former Kabataan Partylist representative Sarah Elago discussed the weaponization of genderbased disinformation against women when tackling national and human rights issues.

The event concluded with a protest advocating for the release of Eastern Vista journalist Frenchie Mae Cumpio, press freedom, and academic rights.

a year ago. Without any notice from both PUP and the Department of National Defense (DND), the studentry found the disregard for their welfare and rights unacceptable.

In a Facebook post, COC SC Councilor Kimberly Torralba shared, “Walang puwang ang pasismo sa anumang kampus o sangay ng PUP! AFP-PNP, layas!”

Meanwhile, Kabataan Partylist - COC also partook in the staged protest and stressed, “Hindi sasang-

ayon ang mga kabataan sa pahirap na pagdaragdag ng tuition and other fees samga pamantasan.Sahalip,gusto ng mga kabataan ang isang abot-kaya at dekalidad na edukasyon!”

After the program, students and labor groups marched to PHILCOA in Quezon City to call for livable wage and an invitation to unite on Mayo Uno, a major mobilization set for Labor Day.

PUP Journ student triumphs photo essay category at PJRC 2023

Out of 12 finalists, Bachelor of Arts in Journalism (BAJ) senior Cris L. Vilchez Jr. from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines College of Communication (PUP-COC) was hailed as the Photo Essay Grand Champion at the Philippine Journalism Research Conference (PJRC) on May 5, 2023.

Garnering a score of 84.6667%, “Lubog sa Floating Area” told the narrative of child labor where children would cross a river in Meycauayan, Bulacan, just to be in the city where opportunities are better.

“Sa floating area sila nakatira, pero patuloy na lumulubog ang pangarap ng mgabata.Child labor atmarami pang nakalulusaw na kwento ang aking narinig […] Ang tagumpay ko ay tagumpay ng mgabatanglumalangoysailog […] Wala man kayong sariling tubig na iniinom at sariling linya ng kuryente— salamat sa patuloy na pakikipaglaban,” Vilchez penned on a Facebook post.

“Kayo ang dahilan kung bakit mas lalo kong naisip

na maraming istorya ang kailanganpangmapakinggan,” he added.

11 finalists from COC also had the chance to represent the university in various categories at the conference.

Across other categories, “Alteraksyon: Sa Likod ng Lente” finished with bronze in the Documentary Feature category, while “Kaliwa Dam: Solusyon o Suliranin” won second place in the News Documentary.

Meanwhile, there were four entries under the Journalism Research: the General Academic Research category, one in the Community Studies category, and another in the Investigative Journalism category.

Among the 100 entries submitted this year from universities across the country, various stories stood out, focusing on poverty, inflation, rice farmers, the mental health of journalists, and the optimization of artificial intelligence (AI) for factchecking.

demands transparency as COVID enters COC again

PUP College of Communication Student Council (COC SC) filed a position paper on students’ concerns regarding the increasing COVID-19 cases within the college to the COC administration on May 3, 2023.

The paper cited demands to disclose the number of symptomatic students and the administration’s interventions in the current situation.

“Kaya naman sa mga ganitong pagkakataon, nais naming idiin na kinakailangan nangmagkaroonngpalagiang disinfection o paglilinis sa mga kwarto at pasilidad na ginagamitngmgaestudyante, lingguhan man o arawan,” COC SC stated.

Following the surge in COVID-19 cases, rooms were disinfected on May 2, causing students with night classes to be dismissed early.

“Hiling din ng konseho ang pagkakaroon ng mga alcohol bottles na aksesable sa lahat ngestudyante,guro,atmaging sa mga staff na naglilinis ng ating kolehiyo,” COC SC requested in the paper.

COC SC also requested updates on the administration’s contacttracing system, which currently requires a health declaration form (HDF) filled out onsite or generated from the Student Information System (SIS).

As per COC Dean Hemmady Mora, two positive cases were reported within the college as of May 12.

Meanwhile, a memorandum from the PUP Office of the Vice President for Administration (OVPA) mandates face masks to be worn at all times within the university premises.

UPHOLDING TRANSPARENCY

PCIJ, PUP Journ collab for FOI forum

Mikaelah

In partnership with the PUP Department of Journalism (DOJ), the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ) conducted a Freedom of Information (FOI) forum titled

“Accessing Government Information to Inform Advocacy Campaign” on May 19 at PUP College of Communication (COC) AVR.

VVC pays tribute to Filipino workers on Labor Day

Rejina Aniano

Stories of four Filipino workers were featured in a Viva Voce COC (VVC) webinar “iBoses 2023: Workers, Wakers! Kayod para sa Pagbabago” on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, via Facebook live, acknowledging their contributions to society and their coping mechanisms to the prevailing struggle.

One of these workers is maintenance worker Warlito Salamat who contracted leptospirosis back in 2016. He found himself fortunate to have an employer who supported his medical expenses, a manifestation of how laborers should be treated.

“Mga trabaho ko, minsan mahirap, minsan madali. Ginagawa ko ito para

sa pamilya ko, para may ipambuhaysakanila,” Salamat narrated.

Fruit vendor Carlito David Jr. also shares the same motivations as Salamat. Tending to this business entails waking up early despite having no guarantee of substantial sales. To boost his sales, he claims he makes use of sales talk. All of this to sustain his family’s basic needs.

Salamat and David Jr. both imparted the values of “sipag attiyaga.”

Despite experiencing occasional hostile treatment, beauty consultant Maricar Tejano and ground staffer Jennifer Teña still find fulfillment in serving their respective customers and passengers. It may sometimes take a toll on them, but they

always cope “with a smile.”

“Pilit nating trabahuhin ang paghayag ng ating mensahe hanggang sa maging tunay na ang ating mga pangarap, mataas na sahod, mababang presyo at bansang may trabaho sa bawat Pilipino, sulong!”

VVC President John Lester Teña emphasized that Filipino workers should be consistently represented and that their struggles deserve not only to be remembered but also appreciated.

The webinar also showcased literary pieces written by Viva Voce COC members and contributing students dedicated to Filipino laborers, amplifying their call for wage increase and workers’ rights.

Speakers from civil society organizations and government agencies discussed the significance of FOI in promoting government transparency and accountability.

“Currently, the Philippines [has] an FOI Executive Order but it only covers offices under the executive administration. We are actively pushing for a law,” PCIJ Executive Director Carmela Fonbuena declared in her welcoming remarks.

Center for Migrant Advocacy (CMA) representative Christel Sobredo shared her team’s experience in requesting documents from various government agencies for a research project.

The Department of Finance (DOF), the Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ), the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), and PhilHealth took one month to respond.

The Department of Health (DOH)

took three months, and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) six months.

While the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) have no response as of writing.

Government agencies usually cater to requests within a week but fail to provide status updates, exhibiting ‘poor data management’ with issues in data presentation, formatting, transparency, and overall data quality.

Meanwhile, Partido Manggagawa representative Randy Miranda echoed FOI’s critical role to inform workers about their rights, working conditions, and benefits.

Their inquiry about the decline in funds of labor institutions like the Social Security System (SSS) and the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) was left unanswered by the government for a year.

Jericho Robles, Philippine Movement for Climate Justice (PMCJ) representative, discussed FOI’s relevance especially with the inaccessibility of supposedly public documents like the Power Supply Agreement (PSA) and environmental impact studies

Atty. Aison Garcia, former Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) secretary, presented the Hacienda Vicente case in Western Visayas wherein a suspicious land conversion was granted to the landowners without informing the farmers.

He requested for the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) certificate used by the Land Use Cases Committee (LUCC) for such legal cases, but LUCC neither found nor provided a copy.

“Freedom of Information is a reclaiming power for transparency and accountability,” Internews Philippines’ Country Director Greg Kehailia concluded the event.

CAEPUP now allows students to choose desired courses

Aries Altavano

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Main Campus released the list of College Admission and Evaluation (CAEPUP) passers for academic year 2023-2024 on Monday, May 29.

According to the PUP website, about 20,000 out of 82,282 applicants received by the Sta. Mesa campus were admitted under the new admission process.

The new admission process enabled CAEPUP passers to choose their intended program for enrollment, unlike last academic year wherein admission is based upon the ranking from the final evaluation of grades and the availability of slots in each course.

There was no explanation as to why the admission process was revised.

TRUTH-SEEKING IN THE POST-TRUTH ERA

PUP RCON 2023 stresses role of campus journos in pursuit of truth

Empowering young radio practitioners in the posttruth era, Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Radio Conference finally commenced its faceto-face comeback themed “MANIOBRA: Unveiling the Illusion Behind Public Deception” at Tanghalang PUP on Friday, May 5.

DZMC Young Communicators’ Guild adviser Director Krupskaya Valila emphasized the role of media, especially radio, in the posttruth era and highlighted the theme’s focus on scrutinizing the trends in the media landscape.

“Ang pinakatunguhin naman po ng ganitong klase ng aktibidad ay siguraduhin na ang isang alagad ng midya ay patuloy na nagmumulat, naglilingkod, at higit po sa lahat, nakikibaka [...],” she said.

Post-truth Era

2016 word of the year ‘posttruth’ gained prominence referring to the devaluation of truth, its diminishing relevance in socio-political discourse, and the increasing dominance of loyalties and emotions over rationality.

Cruz

ABS-CBN reporter Robert Mano cited a 1946 essay titled “Politics in the English Language” where George Orwell warned about a posttruth future in which “in times of universal deceit, telling the truth will be a revolutionary act.”

Post-truth affects civil society, capitalism, the rule of law, and democracy by hindering their pursuit as these are established on truth.

“Media in the Trapeze”

described media safety as a cornerstone of responsible journalism that entails “understanding the public’s information needs, asking probing questions, [...] avoiding persuasion or influence, [...] and empowering audiences with accurate content.”

Threats to journalism such as harassment may have their corresponding penalties yet these raise concerns about potential

infringements on freedom of expression.

An anti-disinformation law was filed in the Senate in 2022 while laws criminalizing trolling red-tagging are nonexistent. Despite threats and hardships, journalists are expected to uphold impartiality and accuracy, as well as demonstrate resilience amid challenging times.

FIGHTING FOR PRESS FREEDOM

Media orgs vow to defend freedom of the press, expression on World Press Freedom Day

On the 30th anniversary of World Press Freedom Day, the PUP College of Communication (COC), Southeast Asian Media Studies Association (SEAMSA), PUP Journalism Guild, and The Communicator organized a webinar titled “Breaking Barriers: Journalists as Catalysts of Freedom of Expression” on May 3, 2023.

SEAMSA Executive Director Alexander Klemm opened the event by emphasizing how press freedom affects people on individual, communal, and national levels. He also reiterated that press freedom is the country’s democracy itself.

While threats and intimidation are naturally part of the job, journalists today face the loss of credibility due to the labeling of journalists as “biased, dilawan, [and] bayaran” according to Manny Mogato, Pulitzer-winning journalist and PressOnePH’s Editor-at-large.

Recently, a Reuters Institute survey revealed most Filipinos get their news and information

from social media sites where false information is rampant.

Explained PH Editor-inchief Archie Bergosa pointed how facts and “fake news” sometimes intersect on social media, and how misinformation dominates the truth.

On the other hand, The Catalyst Editor-in-chief John Robert de Castro emphasized the recurring pattern observed in journalism-related violence and intimidation: their critical nature.

He noted that this is manifested in the censorship and blocking of alternative media sites Bulatlat and Pinoy Weekly.

Journalists’ Role in the Struggle for Democracy

Speakers were asked about the integral role of journalists’ freedom of expression in amplifying the demands and campaigns in the communities.

“Campus journalists have become militant, progressive, and critical. They are really challenging the status quo. I

think that is a positive factor in shaping our future in [the] media,” de Castro said.

Mogato addressed the chilling effect of media shutdowns, such as of ABS-CBN, that induce self-censorship in media outlets, as these are all fueled by disguised propaganda efforts by the state.

Despite this, future media practitioners were advised to remain biased for the public interest and to adhere to the ethical norms of journalism.

“Collective action. Dapathindi natinmakitayungsarilinatinas individual professionals, we should see ourselves as part of the collective struggle,” De Castro stated.

BIGGEST

COMMBACK

PUP CommSoc kicks off Summer Fun Run anew

Mary Grace Cortez

The PUP Communication Society (CommSoc) revived the summer season with Be-Da-Heat: Summer Fun Run 2023 on March 27.

Around 100 participants raced along PUP COC, PUP Main Campus, El Pueblo Condominium, and vice versa.

Dave Carlos Jacinto, a Journalism freshman, won

first place.

“Delightful, surprised, and unexpected. Maluwag sa paghinga kasi [may] anxiety thoughts din na baka hindi ako manalo.Bakama-disappoint ko ‘yong block [ko]. Nasa isip ko ‘yon kaya relieved at the same time dahil nanalo ako,” Jacinto on his win despite the short preparation.

Chief of Communication Society Interactives (CSI) and co-project head Ella Nicole Naig stated, “We can say that it was a successful event as we witnessed the joy on the participants’ faces and their willingness to complete the run despite the scorching hot weather.”

CommSoc deemed this project their biggest event yet and reminded students of more projects in the following months.

“[...] they most definitely have to stay tuned and watch out for our future projects, as I believe those will be more exciting, informative, and creative,” CommSoc President Andrea Carmela Bisenio said.

Recently, CommSoc held a general assembly and recruitment titled “Big COMMback: Welcoming of CommSoc’s Housemates,” on April 20.

‘PakCheck’: BABr student wins Rappler’s #FactsFirstPH video contest

With an explainer video on the Marcos Myths, Rinoa Kate Dela Cruz of BA Broadcasting 1-3D won first place in Rappler’s #FactsFirstPH video contest, a part of MovePH’s anti-disinformation campaign to promote media and information literacy (MIL).

The #FactsFirstPH video contest featured entries for TikTok, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. Dela Cruz’ entry delved into the whitewashed depiction of the Martial Law era as the country’s “golden age” and the importance of correcting historical distortion.

The two-minute video emphasizes “Pak Check,” a short guide to engaging in sensible, informative conversations and ensuring the audience’s comprehension in fact-checking.

Beyond the screen

Dela Cruz has ventured into the alternative media as Features and Lifestyle Editor at Explained PH. Her winning piece was a collaborative work with her co-community journalists at Explained PH to promote their new factchecking division.

Also, as a campus journalist in senior high school, she interacted with the fishermen affected by a reclamation project in their small community. It sparked enlightenment, leading her to the alternative media: “to know more about the struggle of Filipinos.”

“Thanks to alternative media, hindi ako nanatiling bulag,” she said.

Dela Cruz is also a member of the Mass Media and Culture Committee of the PUP College of Communication Student Council (COC SC), alongside academics and alternative

REAL TO REEL

media. Although challenging, she enjoys fulfilling both roles.

Amid the attacks

In an event previously hosted by COC SC, Dela Cruz shared the red-tagging she faced while covering a mass transport crisis in their area. A Facebook account messaged her that the youth should avoid political matters and instead focus on their studies.

“But I always remind myself that without young media practitioners like us, mananatiling misinformed ang mga tao, lalo na ngayon na si Marcos ang namumuno,” she expressed as she remains undeterred in her passion.

“My courage stems from my fear — the fear of letting the country be ignorant of the struggles of their fellowmen,” she added.

‘Bakit Maingay Ang EDSA?’ hailed as SineMinuto ‘23 Best Film

Carousel Productions’ “Bakit Maingay Ang EDSA?” won Best Film at Film Aficionados Circle (FilAC)’s SineMinuto short film festival with the theme, “Buhayin at Lakbayin, Pelikulang Atin!” held at Cinematheque Centre Manila on June 2, 2023.

The short film is a social commentary on the daily struggles and aspirations of two homeless siblings Anthony and Aira, played by Ralph Capinig and Charlize Manabat, whose dreams and hopes are louder than the ever-noisy EDSA traffic.

“Nakakalungkot lang kasi wala pa ring nakakarinig ng mga pangarap ko hanggang ngayon,” Aira’s character

remarked, hoping to exercise her right to an education. The film advocates for equal opportunity in education.

The production received eight major and minor awards, including Best Screenplay, Best Concept, Best Sound Design, and Best Male Performance for Ralph Capinig, while finishing second in direction, cinematography, and editing.

In a Facebook post, Director Raphael Nuyad expressed gratitude and sentiments for directing the film.

“They (Carousel Productions) saw the potential in bringing it to life on the big screen (bakit akin pa napili—gano’ng feeling). Though this placed a weight on my shoulders, it also ignited a fire within me to

push the boundaries of my filmmaking abilities,” Nuyad said on overcoming his doubts.

Meanwhile, Nilay Productions’ “The Portrait of a Man” bagged Best Direction, Best Production Design, Best Editing, and placed second for Best Film, Best Sound Design, and Best Screenplay.

Securing third place, After Hours Productions’ “Meet Me Halfway” won Best Cinematography, Best Female Performance, and finished second in production design.

This year’s SineMinuto film festival featured nine short films addressing diverse and relevant societal issues, aimed to recognize student filmmakers from PUP College of Communication.

EYES OF COLOR

QUADRO Photoclub conducts photography workshop

Elca Grengia and Neildrich Barbosa

PUP College of Communication (COC)

QUADRO Photoclub honed student photojournalists in its workshop

“Biyaheng Pitik: Ratsada’t Arangkada sa Kuwento ng mga Litrato” on June 16 at PUP COC AVR.

The workshop covered photography skills like postprocessing, lighting, camera settings, and storytelling through the lens.

The first speaker, Vivian Valdez, editor of Photographers on Demand (PonD) News Asia, shared her expertise on the basics of photography.

“Hindi naman gaano kaimportante ang klase ng equipment namayroonkadahil kahitmabangisangcamera mo, kung walang kwento ang iyong pinitik, ito’y walang kwenta,” she said.

She also offered techniques on how to turn mobile cameras into advanced photography tools.

Cultural travel photojournalist Noel San Andres then discussed how community photojournalism keeps people informed and how it serves as a medium for documenting history.

“Every photograph not only captures a moment but becomes a tangible piece of historical documentation,” he emphasized.

Fernando “Jun” Sepe Jr., Deputy Editor for Multimedia at ABS-CBN News, shared his experiences as a veteran photojournalist.

“Every story we covered left a mark on me, even though they have different stories. For me, they all have equal importance in my journey as a photojournalist. Isa na roon ‘yong pag-cover namin sa Marawi siege and the drug war,” he stated.

The event concluded with the speakers encouraging the participants to use photography to tell important stories.

PUP CORE premieres promotional short film

“Together in CommRes, let’s bring progress!”

In celebration of Communication Research Month, the PUP Circle of Research Enthusiasts (CORE) and C23 Productions showcased their first-ever short film titled “Pagkatapos ng Takipsilim” on June 9, 2023, at PUP College of Communication (COC) AVR.

It is the first-ever short film produced by PUP CORE and C23 Productions, aiming to creatively showcase the opportunities offered by Bachelor of Arts in Communication Research (BACR) and to persuade incoming freshmen students to take the course.

The film starred Ulrica Salivio who plays Leila, a senior high school student who struggles with choosing a college program until she discovers her passion

for Communication Research.

“Bakitkanag-CommRes?”

Communication Research (CommRes) has been considered by some college applicants as merely “pampuna ng slots sa iApply.”

Freshman Abigail Gloisse Topue stated that the course entails crucial analysis essential for future events.

Further, sophomore Alessie Alanes believes that the CommRes “sheds light to those incapable of speaking up,” stressing it as a way to provide solutions for societal problems.

Project Head and Executive Vice President of PUP CORE

Jemima Faith Laurenciano commemorated the department’s milestones “in the pursuit of perpetual growth and progress.”

Krusadang Komyut: Mga Salaysay ng Paglalakbay

Mary Rose Maligmat and Piolo Cudal

Krusada kung ituring ng mga komyuter ang pakikipagsapalaran sa mga siksikang kalsada ng Maynila. Pakikidigma para sa pag-asang makasakay at pakikipagkarera sa oras ang madalas na tala sa epiko ng bawat biyahe.

Sa masalimuot na ekspedisyon nasusukat ang pananampalataya ng isang tipikal na komyuter. Tila Stations of the Cross ang pagpapalipat-lipat ng moda ng transportasyon.

Nagdarasal sa bawat hakbang na sana umikli ang pila. Sana bumilis ang daloy ng trapiko. Sana hindi umulan, at kung uulan man, sa awa ng Diyos nawa’y talsik lamang at walang baha.

Ngunit sa tuwing nakikipagbalyahan, mapapamura na lang sa kalawakan.

STATION 1: PITAKANG BUTAS

“Parang awa naman. Ang sakit sa bulsa,” napabulong sa hangin si Charmie ng BAJ 1-1D nang mabalitaan niya ang nagbabadyang fare hike sa LRT. Inanunsyo ng LRTA kamakailan na simula Agosto 2, ang minimum fare sa LRT1 at LRT2 ay 15 pesos samantalang 35 pesos ang maximum

Hindi na kasi sasapat ang inilaan niyang 500 pesos para sa pamasahe niya sa isang araw. Apat na sakay pa siya mula Bulacan hanggang PUP — jeep, P2P, MRT, at LRT. At kung kapos na sa oras, may tricyclepa.

Isa namang malaking “hindrance” para kay Alexa ng BAJ 1-1N ang pagtataas ng pamasahe sa pag-ahon mula sa ekonomikal na epekto ng pandemya, lalo na’t hindi ito katanggap-tanggap kumpara sa hindi magandang kalidad ng commutingexperience

Malaking kabawasan ito sa kanyang limitadong budget na nilalamon ng tumataas na inflation. Dagdag sa bigat ng bulsa ang gastos niya sa transportasyon, na naglalaro sa 170200 pesos, na dapat sanang tutugon sa iba pang mga pangangailangan.

Biyaheng pa-Baclaran naman si Arlin ng 3-2N nang sumakay siya sa LRT1. Tiniis niya ang pakikipagsiksikan para lamang makaalis sa tamang oras. Sa isa niyang biyahe, hindi niya namalayang nawala niya ang kanyang pitaka sa tren. Dahil dito, hindi siya natuloy sa kanyang pupuntahan sa kawalan ng pamasahe.

Masalimuot na nga ang siksikan tuwing rush hour, mayroon pang

nakaambang na “rush hour rate” sa mga jeep, bus, at PUVs kung saan madagdagan ng hanggang dalawang piso ang pamasahe tuwing 5-8 AM at 4-8 PM maliban na lang kapag Linggo at holiday. Ito ay tugon sa walang maliw na oilpricehike

STATION 2: GULONG NA PAA

Tren ang naging primaryang moda ng transportasyon ng maraming komyuter, lalong lalo na ang mga magaaral ng Politeknikong Unibersidad ng Pilipinas (PUP), dahil sa tuloy-tuloy na daloy nito na isang kaginhawaan sa nakakasulasok at patigil-tigil na trapiko. Ngunit mula sa tren ay kailangan pa ng ibang magpalipat-lipat sa ibang moda.

Ginugugol ni Charmie ang tatlo hanggang apat na oras ng kanyang araw sa pagbiyahe. Malaking bahagi nito ay mga serye lamang ng paghihintay na makasakay. Bilang mula siya sa isang rural na lugar, limitado lang ang kanyang mga alternatibo.

Sa isang car-centric na lipunan, hindi napagtutuunan ng pansin ang mass transportation. Hindi tao ang nakagagalaw sa mga kalsada kundi mga sasakyan. Sa pagpabor ng gobyerno sa mga polisiyang car-centric, napagkakaitan ang mga komyuter na magkaroon ng maraming alternatibong moda, mabilis na daloy ng trapiko, at ligtas na lakaran.

STATION 3: PATINTERO SA LANSANGAN

Masalimuot na maituturing ang dinaranas ng isang komyuter sa loob ng pampublikong sasakyan, at ibang usapin pa ang paglalakad sa lansangan.

Isa sa mga iniinda ni Alexa ang tila pakikipagpatintero kay Kamatayan makatawid lang sa abalang kalye.

Bukod sa pagtawid, isang balakid pa ang paglalakad sa mga bangketang nagmimistulang obstaclecourse.

Ayon sa urban planner at arkitektong si Felino “Jun” Palafox, masasabing magulo ang urbanplanning ng Maynila dahil sa “discriminatoryzoning,” o ang walang habas na pagtatayo ng mga gusali, na siyang nagdudulot ng “lack of mobility” ng mga pedestrian. Dahil dito, hindi nabibigyang prayoridad ang pagdaragdag ng mga disente at makataong sidewalks at pedestrian lanes

Sa kabilang banda, ang kakulangan sa organisadong imprastraktura ang dahilan kung bakit hindi walkable ang mga kalsada at bangketa sa Maynila. Kung minsan kahati pa ang mga poste ng kuryente, mga sasakyang nakahambalang sa daan, mga nakabalandrang abubot, at mga baradong kanal.

At huwag kalilimutan ang mga mapagkakatiwalaang tulay — mga paikot-ikot, kinakalawang, umuugauga, at sobrang tayog tulad ng kakaibang footbridge na tinaguriang Mt. Kamuning sa Quezon City na sumusubok sa binti ng mga tumatawid.

Problema rin ang mga hindi konektadong underpass dahilan para maligaw ang ilang dumaraan na nais lamang tumawid sa kabila. Ibang usapin pa ang hindi pagiging inklusibo ng mga lagusang ito dahil sa kawalan nito ng mga elevator at mga ramp para sa mga Person with Disabilities (PWDs).

Ayon sa Republic Act 344 o sa mas kilala bilang Accessibility Law, dapat tiyakin na walang sagabal ang mga taong may kapansanan na magkaroon ng access sa mga pampubliko at pribadong gusali o establisyimento katulad ng mga underpass. Isang manipestasyon ang mga ito na malayo pa sa pagiging PWD-friendly ang bansa.

Ibang usapan pa ang kaligtasan sa mga bangketang ito. Lubos ang pagkabahala ni Myrah ng BAJ 3-2N sa tuwing nakakabalita siya ng holdapang nagaganap sa lugar na madalas niyang dinadaanan, lalo na’t minsan gabi na natatapos ang kanyang klase.

STATION 4: PAKIKIPAGKARERA SA ORAS

Mula sa mahabang paghihintay na humahantong sa matagal na biyahe, minsang lumiban sa klase si Charmie dahil walang masakyang jeep. Tinuturing niya itong malaking epekto ng sistemikong suliranin ng transportasyon sa kanyang pag-aaral.

Para naman kay Arlin, malakas humigop ng enerhiya ang pagkokomyut, dahilan upang maisantabi niya minsan ang mga gawain niya sa paaralan.

Sa kakulangan ng maayos na sistema sa transportasyon, nagsisilbi itong batikos sa pamahalaan sa kawalan nito ng pagpapahalaga sa abot-kamay na edukasyon at kinabukasan ng kabataan.

Pagkatapos ng lahat, paano uunlad ang isang tao sa akademya kung ang paglalakbay pa lang sa paaralan ay nag-iiwan na sa kanila ng milya?

STATION 5: NAKABIBINGING WANG-WANG

Isang ironya na ang mga nakatoka sa sistemang pangtransportasyon ay hindi man lang nakararanas ng pang-arawaraw na komyut. Kaya ang tugon ng mga komyuter: maglakbay kayo gamit ang aming mga sapatos.

Dapat ‘yong mga

nasa taas maranasan nila ‘yong hirap ng isang commuter para alam nila kung paano masosolusyunan.

“Dapat ‘yong mga nasa taas maranasan nila yung hirap ng isang commuter para alam nila kung paano masosolusyunan,” sabi ni Charmie. Naniniwala siyang bulok ang sistemang pangtransportasyon ng bansa at dapat na madagdagan ng moda ng transportasyon sa mga rural areas na sasapat para sa ikagagaan ng biyahe ng lahat.

Nakikita ni Alexa bilang epektibong solusyon sa malalang trapiko ang decentralization ng Maynila na siyang maisasakatuparan kung pagtutuunan ng gobyerno ng pansin ang pagsasaayos ng sektor na ito.

Ang pagbuwag sa sistemang car-centric sa pamamagitan ng pagsasaayos ng mga polisiya at maayos na paggasta ng buwis ng taumbayan ang nakikitang unang hakbang ni Myrah.

“It upsets me that commuters are consistently singled out for blame for the country’s dysfunctional transportation system, despite the realitythattheyaremerelyvictimswho have no option but to put up with this kindofterriblesituation,” ika niya.

Sa hinaba-haba ng krusada at sa dinami-rami ng mga umarangkada, iisa lang ang kanilang panawagan: #MassTransportationNow

‘PAGLAYA NG URI AT ARI’

PUP COC SC launches first-ever Mx. COC 2023, calls for LGBTQIA+ rights

Aiming to amplify the LGBTQIA+ advocacies, the PUP College of Communication Student Council (SC) initiated the first-ever “Mx. COC 2023: KalayaangAlay ngKasarian” pageant at Tanghalang PUP on June 30, 2023.

Among the pile of ten colorful individuals, Harley Palubon from BA Advertising and Public Relations (BAPR) was crowned

Palubon advocates for #YourClosetIsASafeSpaceToo, which highlights the importance of equal LGBTQIA+ representation amid societal pressure.

“I realized that what the LGBTQIA+ [community] need [are] not [just] representation, not just to be seen or to be heard, but to be represented

and included in each of the sectors of the society,” Palubon expressed in his winning statement.

Michaela Baldoza of BA Communication Research (BACR) placed first runnerup, and bagged the People’s Choice Award, Mx. Creative Wear, and Best Formal Wear.

Baldoza supports the creation of safe spaces for an inclusive and progressive community and aspires to become a transformative leader in society.

Second runner-up Mark Christian Pagtalunan from BA Broadcasting (BABr) carries “Bakla ka, hindi bakla lang” advocacy, encouraging everyone “to be good and beautiful” despite the belittlement and prejudices among the colorful community.

Meanwhile, Jerico ‘Eula Hoops’ Rosales and Kyla Vivero secured two spots in the final Top 5, with Rosales winning

‘MAKIBEKI,‘WAGMASHOKOT!’

Mx. Photogenic and finalist Lyric Alolor receiving Mx. Congeniality.

Production Collective: “Makibeki,huwag mashokot!”

PUP COC SC held a lightning rally during the pageant, calling for the passage of the two-decade-long Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression (SOGIE) Equality Bill and the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community.

“Isa lang ang panawagan ng sambayanang Pilipino at ng sangkabaklaan, ang kailangan namin, ipasa niyo ang SOGIE Equality Bill. Kailangan namin ng tunay na pagkilala sa aming karapatan at pagkakakilanlan,” PUP COC SC President Ronjay Mendiola asserted.

Previously, online and onground campaigns were held to emphasize gender equality, inclusivity, and diversity.

PUPians call for SOGIE Bill passage, rights at Pride Mob 2023

The scorching heat and police presence were not hindrances for Polytechnic University of the

gathered to protest against inequality across sectors.

They encouraged the youth

administration.

The mob highlighted the passage of the Sexual

Amid the sexual abuses within the university, they reiterated the call for women’s rights and genuine safe spaces.

Officers Training Corps (ROTC) bill, stressing that it will only lead to campus militarization and potential violence within

SP RTS

Defiant and Fierce: PUP Lady Radicals seizes 2nd place in 29th NCRAA

Despite having a neophyte line-up, the PUP Lady Radicals displayed their prowess on the court, securing second place in the National Capital Region Athletic Association (NCRAA) Women’s Basketball Division Season 29 finale against the CEU Lady Scorpions, 73-85, at the PUP Gymnasium on May 26, 2023.

The NCRAA’s return after a three-year hiatus presented unique challenges for the PUP Women’s Basketball Team that

resulted in a lack of competitive experience, with the players facing difficulties in getting back into the rhythm of playing official games.

PUP Lady Radicals captain

Jobhie Jao shared that reaching the finals was both an “achievement” and a “privilege” for the team, and that “hard work and perseverance” got them through.

Jao attributed the team’s success and consistent performance throughout the tournament to their passion, unity, and pride which fueled

their eagerness to win.

After their previous incohesive performance, the team doubled their training efforts, embraced their coaches’ and seniors’ guidance, and implemented open and honest communication to address team problems and misunderstandings.

Despite falling short of claiming the championship, the team’s motivation remained high due to the support of their coaches, family, friends, and the PUP community.

“I think naging motivation din

POST-PANDEMIC SPIKE

para sa amin ‘yong sinasabi sa amin palagi nila Coach na kaya namin makipagsabayan sa ibang schools kahit na hindi kami complete sa equipment and kinulang man sa height Naniniwala pa rin sila na kaya namin makapagbigay ng karangalan sa Sintang Paaralan,” Jao stated.

The PUP Lady Radicals deemed their NCRAA journey a tale of resilience and leadership, as they dedicate their achievements to aspiring athletes and demonstrate the strength of teamwork.

Manikang Pandigma, Chinchansu hold volleyball tryouts

Volleyball captains Summer Lunar of Manikang Pandigma and EJ Napagao of Chinchansu supervised tryouts in May 2023 to strengthen their teams and foster inclusivity within the College of Communication (COC) community.

Lunar, from the men’s volleyball team Manikang Pandigma, highlighted the need for tryouts as both she and her teammates are graduating students.

“Graduating students na kami. Simula noong nag-pandemic, nagstart kami [nang] kami na lang [ang] natitira. Nagpa-tryouts kami

PUP athletes bag medals at 33rd SCUAA-NCR Games

Jane Andes and Dave Carlos Jacinto kasi marami kaming kailangan na players kapag umalis na kami,” she explained.

Meanwhile, Napagao, from the women’s volleyball team Chinchansu, expressed the timely need for tryouts after implementing limited onsite classes.

“From the past three years kasi, ako [na] lang ‘yong natirang player from 2019, ‘yon kasi ang last. It was an internal conversation with my seniors na ipasasiya(the captain position) sa akin which is technically, I’m not yet ready kasi una sa lahat, three years iyong huli kong laro,” Napagao said.

When asked about their selection criteria, Lunar emphasized the equal significance of performance and the athletes’ attitude on and off the court, especially

commitment.

Napagao considered various factors in selecting players, including their proximity to the school for training, time management skills, organizational involvement, and financial stability.

“Skills and commitment go hand in hand,” Napagao stated.

Despite the challenges of extending the clubs to all colleges, the team captains believed the new recruits would positively impact their teams and create a more inclusive volleyball club beyond COC.

The upcoming University Intramural (UI) tryouts allow everyone to participate and showcase their skills in the hopes of making the Final 15.

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) varsity teams secured an incredible harvest of medals across various sports at the 33rd State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association - National Capital Region (SCUAANCR) Games hosted by the Philippine State College of Aeronautics (PhilSCA) from June 19-23, 2023.

‘MOST PREFERRED’

Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) has consecutively ranked first among universities whose students are most preferred by employers for years. But there is always more to PUPians than meets the eye. As the cradle of activism, PUPians are the most preferred target of the rampant red-tagging. With the recent abrogation of the PUP-DND Accord, academic freedom is in danger due to the constant repression by the government now institutionalized through the massive budget cuts that amputate its academia.

Like a toy concealed within a box, PUPians find themselves trapped in the atrocious prison of society. It has become an ordeal to break away from the ironic perceptions of “slaves to labor” and “communist fronts.” Truly, being a PUPian remains a doubleedged sword. Raised on a pedestal one day, then red-tagged on the other.

It is pride only if it caters to their preference, but prejudice as PUPians stand up against injustices. Despite