Why do we need to be moral?

Every one of us wants to live a life filled with happiness and satisfaction. Being moral is one way to achieve a kind of living to its fullest capacity. We need to be moral because this reflects our character and personality. We are being guided by all the moral codes that we follow so that we may only travel on the right path. It will eventually lead us to our ultimate goals, thus succeeding in life. If we are moral, we feel confident that we are not hurting others and perhaps this increases our self-esteem. As we go on with our life, we won’t be having any enemies though I must admit that others are a bit uncomfortable with too good people. Well, I do not know exactly why they act that way. Maybe, they are just ashamed of themselves for they cannot emulate such fine subsistence or they are in the verge of being compared to other persons.

Anyway, another reason why we should be moral is because there will be good consequences for all good words and deeds done by those righteous people. There are certain benefits that we can derive out of being brilliant such as keeping us away from harm and trouble. Furthermore, we will have zero percent chance of being jailed in a dungeon for committing hideous crimes because we are bounded with ethical standards of not engaging into immoral commotions for self-gain. As the saying goes, "One should treat others as one would like others to treat oneself." I think it is a universal truth that we were created as decent persons, expected to act following admirable norms so we may promote not only our own welfare but of others’ well-being as well. Along with this, we pray that all people treasure and relate to one another.

Moreover, trying to be moral implies the fact of being raised by our parents with good manners and right conduct. If we are confronted with problems that require the best decision, we can immediately think for a positive judgment to address the issue. Being moral helps us to have a superior mindset for it fosters both the cognitive development and emotional awareness of the person. All the things that a moral person can execute are simply for the common good. If and only if we are moral, we can have peace of mind and can work on with our jobs to the fullest, thus serving our community to meet its ends. Also, it only proves that we are indeed human beings because we actualize what we really are. It is important that we exist in this world as honorable citizens for the reason that this affects our society and the future generations. We contribute to our nation with the kind of well-brought-up behavior that we lay bare to others. As the civilized populace rises in number, the status of our state will be uplifted and this can be seen through economic, social and political observations. We become role models to others, making them do only right things and avoid carrying out wrong endeavors or inappropriate resolutions.

We also want to breathe day after day pursuing principled attitudes and upright customs because we fear to be punished by our fellows and especially by God. If we perpetrate appalling acts and offend the authorities and public, there is a hundred percent chance of paying fines and being imprisoned for a lifetime. The worst thing there is that we may even lose excellent relationships we have with our family or friends. We also do not want to be the center of scandal and ignominy that’s why we try to please others to gain their trust and sympathy as we conform to socially acceptable demeanor. If we are raised according to praiseworthy values, we can earn more friends and in the end, they will lend a hand when we are in grave danger. These ideals strengthen our faith and gives us hope that someday, love will reign all over the world; that even in little ways of benevolence and care for others, we make this world a better place to live in.

Morality signifies the unequivocal dignity and genuineness of human person. By being moral, great rewards await us. The good intention that we currently possessed towards others explicitly establish our place in heaven. It nevertheless opens our psyche to a newfangled kaleidoscope of opportunities for financial growth, spiritual intensification and perchance, transcendence. Being moral also wards off confusion and chaos from ruining our lives, thus being alive with firm beliefs and convictions. In such a way, we won’t have a very hard time discerning simple or sophisticated rules and regulations because we rationally utilize our brainpower in distinguishing right from wrong. Besides, complying with steadfast etiquette and allows us to have a more unpretentious, more adaptable life. And behind those things are unswerving motivational factors that influence us to excel better in our own careers, consequently advancing our competence and propensities en route for their holistic capacity. Remember that when we follow proper protocols or comportment, we gain the respect of others.

“To be moral is to be human.” We are not perfect and we may create mistakes or sins and have this sense of guilt, but these are all charged to experience, then our intellect would process them to obtain moral lessons. When we also converse about being moral, it denotes the necessity to reckon the concepts of conscience, freedom, ultimate purpose of human existence and dignity. The things I have mentioned indicate our personal and societal duty to protect our worth as valuable creations of God, therefore promoting also our rights for the sake of mankind. They speak about our very own enjoyment and maturity, sparking change to all dwellers of this planet. Yes, the real world presents us with more profound and complicated circumstances. But we need to be moral because that is the way it should be – for God, for human race, for our own safety.

Tree Planting Activity

Narra Seedlings

Tree Planting Activity

23 September 2012 – The Ateneo Nature Crusaders have successfully arrived at Brgy. Panicuason, Naga City to plant trees in the vicinity of Mt. Isarog Natural Park. The team was composed of 20 participants - 18 students, ANC Moderator and INECAR Staff Ms. Shane Bimeda and a former ANC member.

Watershed Development Project Staff Ritchie S. Pinangang, a contract worker, oriented the group about the do’s and don’ts regarding the undertaking as well as the purpose and benefits of the program. He said that the project, in connection with a Memorandum of Agreement last November 2003, was initiated by the collaborated efforts of Metropolitan Naga Water District (MNWD) and Department of Environment and Natural Resources while the City Environment National Resource Office also support the preservation of the area.

Meanwhile, five MIGs headed by Ariel Steban (team leader) and administered by Rolando ‘Roly’ Cruzata (supervisor) assisted the Nature Crusaders to reach the planting site safely. The journey, covering a 1.5-kilometer hike, to final destination lasted for about 30 minutes, passing through the bridge over the rocky Yabo River, surviving all rough, grassy terrains and climbing up and down risky landscapes.On one hand, the planting action took more than an hour to complete. The MIGs were the ones who dug out holes at the planting location, mostly vegetated with trees, shrubs, plantlets and ferns. Accordingly, there were a total of 110 Narra seedlings planted by the Nature Crusaders, hence a great triumph for the entire team.

The said environmental act aims to maintain the vegetation surrounding the watershed area. It would also help the prolongation of ecological balance and protection of endangered species at the area such as wild boars, woodpeckers, flora and fauna. According also to Mr. Pinangang, the activity will prevent the occurrence of climate change, global warming and El Niño which were previously experienced by Nagueños back in 1990. Thus, this will ensure the continuance of water supply to the 40,000 current concessionaires of MNWD.

“’Yung mga MIGs na natin ang magmomonitor ng mga tinanim na Narra plants at mga 5-10 years bago makita na fully grown trees na sila. Pero pwede rin kayo na bumisita after 3 or 6 months to check the plants for sustainability purposes. Sana marami pang iba ang magkaroon ng Tree Planting Activity gaya ng Nature Crusaders,” shared Pinangang.

“Kung ano man ginigibo ta sa kapalibotan ta, may ibabalos man yan satuya. Para man ini sa mga henerasyon na maurunod satuya ta kita man sana an maataman sa kun ano man an igwa kita ngunyan,” furthered Cruzata.

Tree Planting Activity

Tree Planting Activity

23 September 2012 – The Ateneo Nature Crusaders have successfully arrived at Brgy. Panicuason, Naga City to plant trees in the vicinity of Mt. Isarog Natural Park. The team was composed of 20 participants - 18 students, ANC Moderator and INECAR Staff Ms. Shane Bimeda and a former ANC member.

Watershed Development Project Staff Ritchie S. Pinangang, a contract worker, oriented the group about the do’s and don’ts regarding the undertaking as well as the purpose and benefits of the program. He said that the project, in connection with a Memorandum of Agreement last November 2003, was initiated by the collaborated efforts of Metropolitan Naga Water District (MNWD) and Department of Environment and Natural Resources while the City Environment National Resource Office also support the preservation of the area.

Meanwhile, five MIGs headed by Ariel Steban (team leader) and administered by Rolando ‘Roly’ Cruzata (supervisor) assisted the Nature Crusaders to reach the planting site safely. The journey, covering a 1.5-kilometer hike, to final destination lasted for about 30 minutes, passing through the bridge over the rocky Yabo River, surviving all rough, grassy terrains and climbing up and down risky landscapes.On one hand, the planting action took more than an hour to complete. The MIGs were the ones who dug out holes at the planting location, mostly vegetated with trees, shrubs, plantlets and ferns. Accordingly, there were a total of 110 Narra seedlings planted by the Nature Crusaders, hence a great triumph for the entire team.

The said environmental act aims to maintain the vegetation surrounding the watershed area. It would also help the prolongation of ecological balance and protection of endangered species at the area such as wild boars, woodpeckers, flora and fauna. According also to Mr. Pinangang, the activity will prevent the occurrence of climate change, global warming and El Niño which were previously experienced by Nagueños back in 1990. Thus, this will ensure the continuance of water supply to the 40,000 current concessionaires of MNWD.

“’Yung mga MIGs na natin ang magmomonitor ng mga tinanim na Narra plants at mga 5-10 years bago makita na fully grown trees na sila. Pero pwede rin kayo na bumisita after 3 or 6 months to check the plants for sustainability purposes. Sana marami pang iba ang magkaroon ng Tree Planting Activity gaya ng Nature Crusaders,” shared Pinangang.

“Kung ano man ginigibo ta sa kapalibotan ta, may ibabalos man yan satuya. Para man ini sa mga henerasyon na maurunod satuya ta kita man sana an maataman sa kun ano man an igwa kita ngunyan,” furthered Cruzata.

Tree Planting Activity

Tree Planting Activity

23 September 2012 – The Ateneo Nature Crusaders have successfully arrived at Brgy. Panicuason, Naga City to plant trees in the vicinity of Mt. Isarog Natural Park. The team was composed of 20 participants - 18 students, ANC Moderator and INECAR Staff Ms. Shane Bimeda and a former ANC member.

Watershed Development Project Staff Ritchie S. Pinangang, a contract worker, oriented the group about the do’s and don’ts regarding the undertaking as well as the purpose and benefits of the program. He said that the project, in connection with a Memorandum of Agreement last November 2003, was initiated by the collaborated efforts of Metropolitan Naga Water District (MNWD) and Department of Environment and Natural Resources while the City Environment National Resource Office also support the preservation of the area.

Meanwhile, five MIGs headed by Ariel Steban (team leader) and administered by Rolando ‘Roly’ Cruzata (supervisor) assisted the Nature Crusaders to reach the planting site safely. The journey, covering a 1.5-kilometer hike, to final destination lasted for about 30 minutes, passing through the bridge over the rocky Yabo River, surviving all rough, grassy terrains and climbing up and down risky landscapes.On one hand, the planting action took more than an hour to complete. The MIGs were the ones who dug out holes at the planting location, mostly vegetated with trees, shrubs, plantlets and ferns. Accordingly, there were a total of 110 Narra seedlings planted by the Nature Crusaders, hence a great triumph for the entire team.

The said environmental act aims to maintain the vegetation surrounding the watershed area. It would also help the prolongation of ecological balance and protection of endangered species at the area such as wild boars, woodpeckers, flora and fauna. According also to Mr. Pinangang, the activity will prevent the occurrence of climate change, global warming and El Niño which were previously experienced by Nagueños back in 1990. Thus, this will ensure the continuance of water supply to the 40,000 current concessionaires of MNWD.

“’Yung mga MIGs na natin ang magmomonitor ng mga tinanim na Narra plants at mga 5-10 years bago makita na fully grown trees na sila. Pero pwede rin kayo na bumisita after 3 or 6 months to check the plants for sustainability purposes. Sana marami pang iba ang magkaroon ng Tree Planting Activity gaya ng Nature Crusaders,” shared Pinangang.

“Kung ano man ginigibo ta sa kapalibotan ta, may ibabalos man yan satuya. Para man ini sa mga henerasyon na maurunod satuya ta kita man sana an maataman sa kun ano man an igwa kita ngunyan,” furthered Cruzata.

OSA lauds top performing orgs

By Englebert A. Villegas

As an incentive to the top 13 performing student organizations out of 52 evaluated groups, Office of Student Affairs (OSA) rewarded them with Xavier Hall offices effective this academic year 2012-2013.

Right after the Student Organizations Awards and Recognition (SOAR) last 24 February, the OSA had already informed the organizations which will occupy empty rooms – resulting to six co-curricular and seven extra-curricular groups at Xavier Hall.

The Ateneo Consortium of Technological Information and Computing Sciences (TACTICS), Samahan ng Tagapagtaguyod ng Edukasyong Pilipino (STEP), Liga ng Estudyante sa Agham Pampulitika (LEAP), Ateneo de Naga Biology Majors (ANBIOM), Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants (JPIA), College Red Cross Youth, Engineering and Youth for Christ were the organizations removed from the Xavier Hall.

Meanwhile, Ateneo Paradigm Eclat Xircle (APEX), Progressive Organization of English and Literature Majors (POEM), Ateneo Nursing Students’ Association (ANSA), Ateneo Sarong Bangui Junior Eagles, Uswag Junior Eagles, Ateneo Literary Association (ALA) and Digital Artist League of Ateneo are the new occupants.

Pathways to Higher Education, however, replaced the latter upon being informed of Digital’s decision to use its previous working place.

On one hand, organizations namely: Days with the Lord (DWTL) – Women, Association of Psychology Students of Ateneo (APSA), Media Studies Society (MSS), Eagles for Environment and Ateneo Young Entrepreneurs (AYE) retained their offices.

Each of the top three organizations—Uswag Junior Eagles, APSA and AYE— has a term of two years while the others have only a year to occupy their respective offices. Meantime, ThePILLARS Publication, Ateneo Supreme Student Government and Triumph are permanent residents of Xavier Hall.

Straight to the Pointing System

To have an objective way of identifying excelling organizations, the OSA formulated a pointing system, as incorporated in the Organizational Support and Assistance Program, to measure their performances.

The standard of giving credits to organizational achievements consists of two categories: requirements submitted—35 percent (%) and activities conducted—65%.

The first criterion refers to the mid-year and end-year reports and the completeness of the documents submitted. None of the organizations are accredited at this moment because of the “two years in existence requirement”, considering that the system just commenced last school year.

The second one concerns the activities conducted by the organizations, catering to the holistic formation of the members and support to the external community as well.

OSA suggested a set of different areas of growth which the organizations’ activities might dwell on such as skill development, spiritual undertakings,  team building activities, special projects, social advocacies and not only meetings.

 “With the result we presented to them, it would be a challenge for them to step up to their game, to be excellent students, to continue nurturing themselves, and this an indication that we are serious about our program,” Program Officer for Student Development & Student Organizations’ Formation and Training Trish Penelope Araña said.

Proving Thy Self

Due to the limited facilities for organizations, extra-curricular associations without headquarters are permitted to utilize empty university rooms during the activity period while co-curricular entities can do meeting in their home departments.

According to JPIA President Joaquin Paolo Moreno, they were not able to catch up with the new system, bearing in mind that OSA was very much particular with paper works.

“Nakakapanibago ng feeling kasi wala pa sa Ateneo, may office na ang JPIA. I hope that the new admin [JPIA] will learn from the glaring mistake from my federation regarding recordkeeping,” Moreno stated.

Also, he added that all ousted organizations need to exert more effort, to prove themselves once again and to adapt with the new system. “Convinced ako sa resulta ta before pa man, na-brief na kami about sa bagong sistema.”

On the other hand, USWAG former President Mary Grace Villar, now Coordinator for Student Support Services and Linkages of OSA, said that “Maigot na ngunyan ang mga orgs ta may objective way na of determining kung isay na mga orgs ang gadan na, kung pasain talaga, a proof na lifeblood ng orgs ang members nito”.

“Meron na kaming malalagyan ng equipment, mas madali pag may announcements, may taguan ng mga files at mae-encourage ang mga students na magdayon sa mga orgs,” answered Villar when ask about the benefits of being rewarded.

“Doon sa mga natanggal ,at wala pang workplace, they must see this in a positive way, as a privilege and a challenge, as an opportunity for them to be better this school year. And for those who have been awarded with new offices or ‘yung andito pa, congratulations. Still do your best this time,” Arana ended with a message to all organizations.

Ignatiana 2012

Report re IGNATIANA activities

By Englebert A. Villegas

Blockbuster Hits

Pelikula Piyesta was the title of Center for Arts and Culture Film and Creative Communications Program Committee’s event offering in celebration of IGNATIANA 2012.

The Festival had run last 23-25 July at the Instructional Media Center which mainly featured films produced by students. These were among the outputs of production researches last year by senior students under the Department of Media Studies.

On the first day, “Kikik” and “Sa Pamayo kan mga Bareta” were shown while “Silbato” and “Le Rouge Ballon (The Red Balloon); and “The Mission” were exhibited on the second and last day of the program, respectively.

According to Committee on Film and Creative Communications Chair Victor Dennis Nierva, “The festival was a way of finding God in all things, as St.Ignatius urges us to do. The films were opportunities to wonder and wander in the beauty of art as manifestation of Divine presence and love."

He added that “the home-made films were there so that we can appreciate our culture, language and our consciousness as a unique people.

Also, he informed that “magis can be seen in the never-ending quest for knowledge in the critical discussions of the films because the festival was not simply a film showing, but a way of intellectualizing art.”

“This is the start of a more heightened effort of elevating consciousness and sensibilities of the members of the university community as far as Bikol culture and Art are concerned,” he furthered.

On one hand, Ateneo de Naga University – Center for Culture and the Arts Director Noel Volante, in a letter, thanked all the college students for their Culture and Arts Development Fee of Php50.00 to finance various activities.

Music for the Soul

Performed at the Arrupe Convention Hall last 25 July, the “Hibang sa Awit” (Ignatina Pop Concert) coincided with the University Dress-Up Day.

The Ateneo Chamber Ensemble and Ateneo de Naga University Choir (UC) performed at the show, in cooperation with the Center for Arts and Culture Music Program Committee.

There were three segments, each with different theme, of the program –the lively collection of songs at the first part, comic songs at mid-show and the serious, grand pop-rock songs to end the musical with a big bang.

According to UC Director and Committee on Music Chair Joseph Reburiano, the problems that they have encountered were the conflict of schedules concerning different exhibits and programs of various offices around the campus; the allocation of the place for rehearsals; and utilization of a bigger sound system.

Reburiano, however, made clear that their show was “very successful and very fulfilling even performed with a new genre.”

Also, UC President Ann Rosslyn Tan shared, “Most student see us [UC] na parang sa ‘church’ lang, but we can stil go out of the box. Maayroon pa kaming maibibigay. Versatile kumbaga. Para kaming working students…have to balance our time and effort sa rehearsals, sa academics, but when people learned to appreciate us, the fruits of our labor turn out to be so rewarding.”

In the meantime, Reburiano disclosed, “The [viewers’] reviews were great and others were quite shocked kasi libre ‘yung concert naming…libre talaga, walang bayad ‘yun. Gusto nga nila ng ‘repeat performance’ pero impossible dahil nga sa mga expenses.” Meanwhile, one UC member said, “Marami na nga kami fans eh.”

Furthermore, he confirmed the rapport between their event and the whole celebration of Ignatiana. “The listeners and performers have used their giftedness as useful talents in responding to God’s call – the praise, reverence and service to God. …that will help us to stay humble in celebrating God’s glory,” he concluded.

Move and Groove

The University Celebration Committee and the Center for Arts and Culture Dance Program Committee, chaired by Mariam Jocylin Saavedra, collaborated with Ateneo dance groups in pursuing the event entitled Cultural and Contemporary Dances.

Fire n Ice Dance Group (love dances) and Ateneo Dance Troupe (occupational dances) were the two performing factions during the affair, with the theme Dancing: People’s Heartbeat, last 26 July at the University Gymnasium.

Fire n Ice Dance Group Founder and Moderator Dr. Tess Consulta-Francisco revealed that their activity had no absolute connection with the celebration of IGNATIANA 2012.

“Magkaibang fields din kasi ang dalawa: religion and arts…at activity sana namin ‘yun kaso napagkasunduang isabay na lang sa Ignatiana para isahan na lang,” said Dr. Francisco.

She added, however, that the program can still be linked to Ignatiana “because in relation din sa mga turo ni St. Ignatius [of Loyola,] ‘yung love, hardwork and pag-hone ng skills are simple ways to help the community at ‘yung entertainment show naming brought happiness to the audience…’yun ang mahalaga.”

Also, she said that no major problems were encountered during the affair and stressed out that everything was ‘okay’.

“Successful ‘yung event pero [nagroon ng kalituhan] in terms of the start of the program, akala nung iba 7:00PM magsisimula kaso nag-start siya 6:30PM kaya marami ‘yung iba na dumating eh palabas na ‘yung mga tao,” ended Dr. Francisco.

Breakbone Fever

Mysteries of Terminus

By Englebert A. Villegas 

Breakbone Fever

photo courtesy of http://www.wowbatangas.com/tag/cases-of-dengue-in-the-philippines/

Alarming are the days when dengue outbreaks scatter all over the country. Just for the sake of opening everyone’s eyes, this has something to do with our responsibility of cleaning the environment.

According to World Health Organization, global incidence of dengue had amplified in recent decades and about two-fifth of the world’s population are now at risk, especially those regions having tropical or sub-tropical climate. Being located in a tropical archipelago, we are indeed at great risk.

With almost 14 percent boost in dengue cases from January to July this year here in the Philippines, over 46,000 cases and more than 290 deaths are already in record. The reported upsurge places our nation in dire need of intensified anti-dengue operations especially those in risky locales.

Changes have occurred, but sadly for the worse. Mosquito’s kiss of death has caused various dilemmas to humanity. Before, people were just being cautious during the day against mosquito bites. At present time, however, the emergence of new mosquito specie caused much danger to human lives for they are also active at night.

One factor that triggered the increase of dengue fever occurrences is climate change. Mosquitoes learned to adapt to the shifting weather conditions, making their breeding habits also developed. If before they only bred during the rainy period, they now multiply in number even during dry seasons for the reason of their new systems. 

Another factor playing a part to the explosion of dengue cases is the rapid growth of population most especially in urban areas where hygienic practices are in question.

People should be educated on proper solid waste management schemes and observance of good water storages. As much as possible, people should avoid stocking water on unused basins or pails whether outside or inside their houses. They must see to it that the place where they live is free from possible breeding areas.

Today, a vaccine is not yet formulated at the moment to cure the disease, except for approved medical treatments at home or hospitals. Luckily, Sanofi Pateur is currently doing research and experiments to invent the first dengue vaccine to be released to those regions which have already reached critical levels.

Indeed, benefit over cost should be considered in the search for the right medicine. But now, we must concentrate on what we have and identify those who are in grave threat to avoid complications and skyrocketing expenses.

Vigilance is required because if the infected individual is not treated at a reasonable time, the victim may suffer from a lot of complications such as dengue hemorrhagic fever; damage to lymph and blood vessels; enlargement of the liver; failure of circulatory system and worse, he may suffer from dengue shock syndrome and coma, then death.

Different communities must also be able to distinguish the indicators of real dengue from flu or other viral contagion. Because of this, health centers or clinics must be informed to stay open even on weekends to accommodate possible patients in order to prevent further casualties.

Professional doctors and medical assistants, on one hand, must always be on duty during critical hours and if possible, additional facilities and first-aid kits like beds and medications must be easily accessed in case of emergency situations.

The moment this article sinks in to you, why don’t you observe your surroundings? We are being challenged to stay protected and to reduce mosquito incidence by the existing methods we have.

Prevention schemes in eliminating dengue-carrying mosquitoes comprise of emptying pots, tires, containers and buckets which accumulated dormant water; regularly refilling pet’s water saucers and; insecticide spraying.

Moreover, precautionary practices we can perform to guard ourselves against any infectivity include using of mosquito repellents and nets peculiarly during peak biting hours (9:00-10:00AM; 5:00-6:00PM and 11:00PM-1:00AM); staying away from extremely inhabited areas; wearing of protective, apt outfits outdoors; using of air conditioning when indoors and; securing window and door screens.

Developments also presented the possibilities of altering the genes of mosquitoes so that they may no longer function as transporters of the dengue virus. Nevertheless, whatever resources we have, the problem will continue to prosper if the root source of it cannot be fully detected and solved without causing trouble to our environment.

This calls for the joined forces of all sectors of society—the government, churches, media, family units, schools, private and public corporations and non-government and professional organizations – to strictly pursue anti-dengue campaign advocacies. 

We should not kill time waiting for another victim to get hospitalized before we do our obligations; we should not hang around until another dengue outburst transpires.

The education sector can provide support by offering subjects that would educate about the human behavioral aspects of dengue control. Their curriculum should be required to have courses that would expose the students to the whys and wherefores of dengue cases.

Also, our public health agencies must be responsible in supplying adequate facilities and human workforce in combating the escalation of mosquito population through employing the right people who will lead in the fumigation and insecticide spraying. They must also update the citizenry recently approved treatment for dengue cases.

Furthermore, the environmental departments are also involved in this drive against dengue incidents. They can reduce the intensity of problem by organizing dengue awareness programs to different communities so people would know how dengue is transmitted, the dos and don’ts to protect themselves and the things they can do to help abate the situation.

Moreover, the justice department must commit their time and effort in implementing laws that would regulate human actions as to environmental regulations. Together with police authorities, they must ensure that people are not doing bad practices that would lead to bigger dilemmas. Rule breakers must be given disciplinary sanctions or be obliged to pay fines that can be used in anti-dengue movements.

Administrative decrees like the posting of “No Dumping, No Littering” and “Avoid accumulating stagnant water on different containers.” signs to different places, required disinfection of aircraft passengers from infected countries, authorization about proper disposal of junk tires and other scraps as possible breeding grounds can help manage the problem at hand.

Also, the science and technology department can served as a conduit of solution by doing researches and experiments in searching for new ways to control dengue-carrying mosquitoes from feeding on human blood. They can give manuals to people about information and data on mosquito and related diseases.

Other responsible sectors are the media including radio, television, print media, and internet and even thru text. They can be seen and heard everywhere that is why they function as a powerful tool in informing the public of recent dengue issues and remedies.

In addition, the private firms’ roles consist of producing commercial products that would contend with mosquito activities and their establishment of corporate social responsibility programs connected with dengue monitoring and prevention activities. Also, construction firms must build edifices that are not prone to mosquito propagation.

Most importantly, the government sector should extend a big hand in addressing the dengue crisis. There are so many problems striking the nation, but solving dengue incidents must still be on the priority list.

As the saying goes, “health is wealth.” Accordingly, the administration must provide the necessary funds to start effective measures in addressing the problem, at least to minimize dengue fatalities, if not to absolutely resolve the issue.

The present administration must have a clear platform in eradicating dengue outbursts by collaborating also to all concerned institutions. This calls for good investments of financial and human resources for health centers that must be built in areas where dengue cases are soaring, water and sanitation facility improvements.

Finally, the household sector must be conscious on how to decrease mosquito population at source and to stay safeguarded from dengue virus. It is a potential channel in eliminating the breeding sites of mosquitoes. Families should participate to all anti-dengue endeavors and comply with all environmental rulings and values.

Even in little ways, like encouraging communities to do clean-up drives along filthy canals and gutters, can help lessen the plight. Environmental and community projects can provide benefits too.

As the saying goes, “health is wealth.” Accordingly, the administration and health department must provide the necessary funds to start effective measures in addressing the problem, at least to minimize dengue fatalities, if not to absolutely resolve the issue.

Mining con negates reg’l mines

By Englebert A. Villegas

No to mining in Bicol!

Organized by the Institute of Environment, Conservation and Research (INECAR), the Regional Consultation on Mining in Bicol was structured to embark upon the prevailing concerns in mining; a battle for the environment.

It was held at the Arrupe Convention Hall, Ateneo de Naga University (AdNU) last 28 June with funds coming from the Foundation for the Philippine Environment.

Also, due to the efforts of INECAR Director Emilina G. Regis, ABS-CBN Foundation Executive Director Dr. Gina Lopez, Bantay Kita former National Coordinator Maita Gomez and Atty. Gerthie Anda of Environmental Legal Assistance Center, the said conference had materialized.

From 234 invitations sent to different units or offices, more or less 144 people were able to join the said affair, including the volunteers and organizers.

The attendants were clustered into Academe, Government Agencies, Church, Non-government and Other Organizations, Local Government Units, Media and AdNU community.

“May effect kaya sa iba-ibang sectors, kaya para mayong mawalat ininvite sinda kasi rin regional ang event. Sa workshop, si mga policies na gusto kang sector ninda, mailuluwas ninda…si mga gusto nindang gibuhon ni Pnoy sa Mining Law,” shared INECAR Deputy Director Joanaviva C. Plopenio.

Ateneo Nature Crusaders, Banhi, Ateneo Eagles for Environment, Social Sciences Department, Center for Community Development, Center for Local Governance (CLG), Office of Alumni Affairs, and Office of the President also helped in the event.

The master of ceremonies during the morning gathering was Mr. Karl Llorin while Ms. Rowena Malate took center stage in the afternoon.

Intensified Sunup Session

To tune-up the mindset of participants and as a guide for the subsequent forum, sharers coming from mining communities in the Bicol Region talked about their experiences like their efforts to prevent the commencement of mining operations.

Also, Aquinas University Secretary General Engr. Virgilio S. Perdigon Jr. presented the mining practices in Rapu-Rapu, Albay, now under the management of LG Kores of Korea, Malaysian Smelters Company and Rapu-Rapu Minerals Inc., which according to Dr. Regis is owned by Lafayette.

From his presentation, it was stated there that “Rapu-Rapu Polymetallic Project (RRPP) is then not so different from the budul-budol gang,” because RRPP “took so much from the community, but had given back so little” – in contrary to their Social Development Management Plan containing unfulfilled promises.

Included as well in his discussions were the ‘bad’ practices of RRPP such as “paying lip service to environmental protection through token measures; giving back so little, making it appear so much and drawing extensive media mileage; co-opting government agencies in what amounts to a conspiracy of cover-up and distortion or concealment of the truth.”

On one hand, Dr. Regis discoursed about the impacts of mining to the environment like the productivity reduction of terrestrial and aquatic biota, loss of livelihood in farming and fishing, diseases from toxic heavy metals, de-industrialization and depopulation in the mining sites which are all leading to poverty.

From the four stages of mining – exploration, site development, extraction and beneficiation (processing) and mine closure – according to her report, ecological destruction is the main upshot of mining.

Meanwhile, Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Mines and Geosciences Bureau (DENR-MGB) Region V Representative did not attend the convention, thus failed to hash out the operating mining sites in the region.

The speakers should have talked over the large-scale mining operations in the region, implemented by the private sector with MGB regulating operations.

These are the Quarry and Cement Plant Project of Goodfound Cement Corporation in Camalig, Albay, a cement manufacturer, RRPP, a copper and zinc producer, and Masbate Gold Project of Filminera Resources Corporation.

Other mining companies like Johson Gold Mining Corporation in Camarines Norte; Orophil Stonecraft Inc. with its Perlite Project in the Municipality of Baao, Camarines Sur; and UBS Marketing Corporation’s Legazpi Perlite – Clay Project were also contained in the compact disc sent by MGB.

Only positive information can be seen there, with all the contributions, permits and certification as well as the environmental and community projects they have, but divergent to other speakers’ individual reports.

Moving to the Mainstream

In the continuation of afternoon assembly, Ms. Gomez tackled the ‘Economics of Mining’.

She expounded on the low inputs of mining to employment, Gross Regional Domestic Product and tax revenues based on the records of MGB – Mining Industry Statistics and Bureau of Internal Revenue; defective policies on mining; data discrepancies like in the mismatch of mine exports and production figures.

Meantime, issues related to fees and charges, if sufficient to offset the damage caused by mining, and our responsibilities in promoting environmental protection, for instance the support to Alternative Mining Bill pending in Congress, were also dealt with.

According to Ms. Gomez, she questions the fact that our very own protector of environment, DENR, is the one issuing permits to exploiters of natural resources.

On the other hand, a DENR-Environmental Management Bureau Director or Representative  who was supposed to recount ‘Assessment of Mining Pollution and Penalties’ was not able to be present at the consultation.

Also, Dr. Lopez was not at the meeting, but was represented by Bantay Kalikasan Senior Resource Mobilization Officer Maria Darryn Vernie Castillo.

She imparted about the Alternatives to Mining like eco-educational and agri-tourism schemes, livelihood ventures like micro-small enterprise propagation and organic farming.

Various mining locations all over the nation were also shown like in Surigao del Sur (Marcventures Mining Development Corp.), Manicani, Samar, Compostela Valley, Black Sand Mining in Ilocos Sur and Cagayan, Narra, Palawan (Narra Nickel Mining Corp.), Mt. Bulanjao, Palawan (Rio Tuba Nickel Mining Corp.) and others.

Aside from the alarming poverty incidence related mining industry and absence of responsible mining, one highlight in the duration of her presentation was the united shout of participants uttering “No to Mining in Bicol! No to Mining in Palawan!”

Furthermore, Bishop Arturo Bastes of Sorsogon presented the church’s five provisions for responsible mining which were supported by the participants.

Ascent of Policy Reforms

Before the end of consultation, Ms. Michele C. Verdadero of CLG facilitated the last portion of the event, the proposal for policy reforms from the participants.

INECAR summarized the results into Mining Regulation and Rehabilitation, Compliance to Law, Monitoring Policies, Tax Policy (the possibility of raising the excise tax from 2% to 30%) and Sustainable Development Practices.

“Iyong 1995 Mining Act eh open talaga to mining, at iyong new policy close to mining to prevent destruction of biodiversity areas. Doon sa mga nagmimina, anong mas mahalaga – food o ginto? Maaaring sabihin na ipagbibili niyo ang ginto pero anong silbi nun kung masisirira ang mga forests and vegetation,” disclosed Dr. Regis.

She added a suggested action: “to love our country and to protect and care for its resources, the one providing us with everything kasi ang metal naman ay narerecycle, ‘di kailangang magbungkal ng magbungkal.”

For the foreign investors, “Why don’t you mine in your own countries? At walang kwenta ang investment nila kung ‘di igagastos ditto bukod sa labor worth Php200.00 habang ‘yung mga  machinery eh from abroad” was her message to them.

 Meanwhile, Dr. Regis’ statement to all was “to prevent the entry of mining companies in connection to their mining applications at wag magbulag sa mga pangako at offers nila.”

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Movie Review Based on given Guide Questions.

In the movie, I Want to Have a Bicycle; the modernity seen there was the introduction of foreign lifestyle, expensive bicycle and other commodities as well as the emergence of tourists and media. No one can ever prevent the change a scooter can cause to the highlands. For as long as it has a value of its own, it effects some emotions to those who may witness its grandeur most especially if it has been invented flawlessly and from the movie, with a great brake. It would serve as a kind of help to the highlanders in terms of transportation or for playing. Modernization allows those privileged societies to show to other remote areas the greatness of its mechanisms.

The film has some exceptional features like the amalgamation of modernity’s influence to the people of Ifugao and the native inhabitants’ practice of old traditions or believing in superstitious beliefs. There came time wherein the people discovered that what they believed in before were in fact false actions or statements. From here, having doubt on things was evident but asking for valid answers must originate from determined people and valid responses from reliable and educated individuals.

On one hand, the film about Agpansula demonstrated a kind of conflict between two different ethnic relations, that of the Mangyan man and the lowlander woman. It was crystal clear that their lifestyle, practices and status quo were somewhat poles apart. The ways in which marriage and customs were conducted by the two civilizations differ from each other. The Mangyan way was sickening and gross because of the Agpansula ritual (a pig slaughtering; reading on its internal organs) from which the tribe predicts supposed occurrences of the couple’s wedded life.

The story was more on a realistic view. The actuality provided by the movie overshadowed the anticipated romance between the man and woman. The new concept of family or person in this film, however, was the fact that two loving birds even if with varying lifestyles and heritage can be united. Racism is not in the vocabulary of lovers.

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Oust the Wastes for Longevity

Foul-smelling air, contaminated water, deteriorated lands – polluted environment. And no one could survive a day with these things that hinder the existence of harmonious living.

            Can you feel the degrading value of Earth? The nature grunts and howls for change. That those deviated from practicing solid waste management (SWM) techniques might someday realize the grandness of doing so. What a wonderful life a person can have if and only if his surrounding seems so pristine and desirable!

            Something must be done! In schools, the basis of parents to enroll their children to a certain one does not solely depend  on the quality of education and formation opportunities, but also on the level of sanitation and picturesqueness of the area.

            Whether calling it as rubbish, dirt, smut, filth, garbage, waste, leachate, sphacelate, skuzz, street sweepings, scraps, junks, refuse or whatever terms you may associate with any chucked out, forsook or waste-like stuffs, solid wastes appear in solid, liquid, semi-solid or even in gaseous forms that scatter everywhere.

            It is but a common problem in Ateneo de Naga University that ten to 20 kilograms of wastes daily are being collected from each building while thrice the amount during special occasions like Intramurals and Orgs Fair wherein the supposed refuses discharge in the labeled storage cans are neglected, causing the collection, source separation, transportation, transfer, processing, treatment, or disposal of solid waste to be harder at the point of generation.

            According to the Physical Plant Administration's (PPA) Grounds and Buildings Head Manuel P. Nicolas, whenever there's an activity in school, he and his colleagues coordinate with the different offices and organizations to talk about limiting the use of plastic materials, styrofoams and disposable items.

            Indeed, the whole Ateneo community itself is a good channel that can be tapped to spread ecological cognizance and protection. However, the process must be a collaborative effort of the students, educators, employees and administrators of the Ateneo to secure the most expedient effect.

            The desire of people especially of environmentalists, called for the creation of Republic Act 9003 or Ecological Waste Management Law which states “the integration of SWM, resource conservation and recovery topics into academic curricula of formal and non-formal education in order to promote environmental awareness and action among the citizenry.”

            Fortunately, Ateneo Ecological Solid Waste Management Program has been formulated by PPA. As its other contents are being prepared for implementation, it shall cover the education and public information to be incorporated in the Orientation Seminar or Alternative Class Program, environment-related courses and events. Enforcement of this schemes still account for budget from the PPA, with system-wide dictum to assist the instructors.

            Aside from aiming to improve the Materials Recovery Facility at the second gate, composing of a solid waste transfer station or sorting station, drop-off center, a composting facility, and a recycling facility; the reform will also engage in trash receptacle improvement whereas machine shredder was bought to fix paper waste troubles.

            Nurseries were also contained in program to facilitate seedlings, herbals plants and ornaments and where the product of composting can be utilized. The last section includes lobbying ordinance legislation in the case of packaging, eco-labeling and refilling.

            Zero waste, the main target, can be achieved if all would partake, decisions constituted from  a consensus of diverse functional berths in the university, in reducing the overall resource usage and  using retrieved resources.

            Recycling, re-using, source reduction, waste diversion and avoidance, composting, natural farming, proper storage, segregation of wastes and not distorting biological processing  of wastes are just some of the possible things that can be done here in Ateneo.

            Upon reflection, encamp on the prospects to say no against awry habits of littering, combining biodegradable scraps into nonbiodegradable   trash bins or burning waste. The very fact that others lack discipline, like when they just throw their trashes anywhere they love to; a sign of negligence or ignorance? Are they just too lazy not to go to the nearest garbage can and fling the rubbish decorous? Or just too stupid to think that janitors would clean up the mess for them?

            Respect for the Atenean milieu has vanished as students made the domain an arena of battling garbage contributors against ethical standards and territorial tidiness. The way people manage their impurities reflect somehow their own personality. Doing right things for the good of the community must be in habituation.

            Circumstances such as the disposal of trashes at the corners of the classroom or being concealed on chairs or tables and just tossing away impurities in comfort room bowls or lavatories explicitly show the carelessness of those wrongdoers. Or students who might be blinded by extreme educational discussions don't use the trash barrels anymore; in lieu of carrying out good bionomical functions they would stay nescient about it.

            Of course, we don't want those accumulated waste to grow so big in volume that no single strategy is effective and efficient enough to eradicate them. In the worst case, public health, aesthetics and environmental safety will be framed at high risks if inappropriate waste administration procedures like incineration and thermal treatments are will be exercised in the institution.

            The time has arrived to convert the school into a greener hub by adapting a simple lifestyle and ostracizing applying sustainable and economically low-priced but practicable precautions. The university will be serving as a training avenue in forming accountable students that would control or prevent unnecessary wastes, coupled with sound supervision and sustenance.

            In conformity with the best principles of public wellness, finances, applied sciences, technology, livelihood for garbage pickers, preservation and philosophy, solid waste management must be dealt with meticulously, considering various ecologic consequences to achieve the end goal.

            Ateneans, therefore, should commit seriously in the abatement of yielding wastes and toxics as socially responsible individuals to ameliorate the status of enterprises and the community.