UnderCover

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October 2012www.lakandiwa.com

18In the abyss of a shadow

economy

22Succent minutae for the Election 2013

27Unveiling Secrets to Success despite dearth

28University of Cebu over time: magnifying the timeline

30Why u no grad, bro?

31Needle & string for a living

32Zombie Apocalypse: for real?

26Treasures of the past

08 A digital alternative to earn

some cash

09 Seeing Korea in the Philippnes

12SRP: A path to a new Cebu

16 Melting crystals

17 Carnal captives

20 Early mortherhood outbreak:

a victim’s side of the story

21 Glare of publicity of being

beautifully white

LAKANDIWA MAGAZINE||OCTOBER 20122

What reality has revealed from its keeps left humankind in both content and terror—from the scarred truth to the exposed lies. Humanity saw, in a now clearer vision, a world that is worthy to be uncovered.

Editor’s Note: Fotos without credits are taken from the wires.

Layouts by: Virgelio F. Balbuena, Jr.Gram L. TelenJude A. Mag-asin

about the cover

CONTE

NTS

SkateboardingYoung people share how

a certain sport has becom

e part of their lives in a m

atter of roller blades and boards.

10

A Probe to a great hero

Although Lapu-Lapu has been em

inent for his act of valor in defending the province, still there are pieces of inform

ation left unwritten about the

Cebuano hero that are w

orth sharing.

Exotic Cebuano Foods

Not w

idely made know

n to others, one that m

akes up Cebu C

ity is the different kinds of exotic foods you can taste in the different corners of it.

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Osm

eña PeakThe sum

mer capital, the Little Baguio, and the

Vegetable Basket of Cebu w

hich is situated at approxim

ately 1,000 meters above sea level in

Dalaguete, C

ebu will give you a 360-degree

panoramic view

of some places in the Visayas,

take you to a trek, and let you see the different kinds of vegetables along the w

ay.

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THE EDITOR’S PAGEWe’re not scared to stay up late at night whenever a few words suddenly run our head. We will not bother to notice

the alarm if we feel the dire need to scribble something on a paper. We can stay awake for forty-eight hours just to satisfy ourselves with the story we are writing. All these things made every page of this magazine a mixture of hard work, perseverance, and dedication.

You will find out how we’ve made one full attempt of assuming we are undercover CIA agents by presenting stories through different lenses.

As you go through the pages, we will unveil that poverty is not a hindrance to a student’s success. It’s a cliché or passé as it may seem, but this old adage remains true today, most especially to the students of the masa school. We will also reveal some reasons why there are also students who are not able to succeed. We will also give you a brief overview of the UC timeline. We also came up with tips to earn cash through digital alternatives nowadays.

Part of uncovering the truth of finding facts is to study the past. While it’s true that a lot of stories are inked in books, some things may change in the course of time. We attempt to probe the real battle place of Lapu-Lapu and Magellan. And it is also equally important to dig deep the Cebu treasures buried through time.

You know how we all love our dear home—Cebu! Hence, we want to discover our beautiful home. Talk about improvement, and Cebu is the number one province on the list. We will serve all the exotic must-eats in Cebu. We will also take a closer look at the beautiful Osmeña peak. We can truly say that Cebu never runs out of good stuff. Talking about Cebu’s progress, we find it hard to not include the ever developing political landscape in the city vis-à-vis the 2013 midterm elections.

And any magazine wouldn’t be complete without its social issues and how they affect the students in particular and the people in general. We will highlight the underground market of buying cell phones, parents pimping their children, early motherhood, whitening products, and the long list never ends.

It is your discretion to judge if our hard work and sleepless nights have paid off. Feel free to flip through the pages. Enjoy!

Krizabelle Marie P. BatandoloEditor in Chief

OCTOBER 2012|LAKANDIWA MAGAZINE 3

FOTO BY CESAR V. LEDESMA, JR.

In search for the truth and real story about the life and roots of one of the Philippines’s greatest heroes, Daryl Maye Getubig writes.

eople view him as the strong, masculine, and brave hero who once resisted Spanish invaders from colonizing the now Queen City of the south, the very first Filipino hero and the ruler of Mactan—Lapu-Lapu. Who is he? What is his real story?

According to history

Over the years, many stories came out about the life of Lapu-Lapu. These are the stories we read in textbooks and the ones our history teachers had discussed about in our younger years. Even people from all walks of life told tales and legends that even history has known nothing of.

According to history, Lapu-Lapu is the very first Filipino hero. He was known with names such as Cilapulapu, Si Lapu-Lapu, and Kali Pulako. Even before the Spaniards arrived, Lapu-Lapu was then the datu of Mactan.

On April 27, 1521, Lapu-Lapu led his 1, 500 soldiers geared with weapons like barong,

spears, kampilan, and kalasag in a conquered battle against Portuguese conquistador Ferdinand Magellan and his 49 Spanish soldiers who were armed with guns. The battle was widely known to have happened in the pristine shores of Mactan. But the folks from the neighboring island, Camotes, believe otherwise.

Legends

People from Camotes island believe that the real battle happened not in the shores of Mactan but in the coast of their very island. In a documentary made by I Witness, the municipal tourism officer of Poro, Camotes narrated that there were artifacts collected during the 70’s which served as a proof that civilization was present in the island before. These artifacts, in fact, gave the people a strong belief that the real Battle of Mactan happened in the shorelines of Camotes.

On the contrary, Quirina Quijano, a staff from the Lapu-Lapu shrine recalled to Lakandiwa the stories that her grandparents used to tell her. “Sauna ako’ng mga apohan mangaligo diri. Unya niingon sila nga naa man kuno’y modagayday nga dugo diri’ng dapita. May timpo g’yud nga modagayday ang dugo sa dagat,” she narrated. This made her believe that in April 1521 one courageous man put a stop to an attempt of colonization by the Spaniards.

A probe to aGREAT HERO


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Even people from all walks of life told tales and legends that even history has known nothing of.

Tracing his roots

The attempt of tracing down the roots of one of the greatest figures of ancient Filipino history remains to be a never-ending search to many. Many families are claiming to be the descendants of this great hero—from the Mundo clan in Borbon to the many families living around Lapu-Lapu City.

On the other hand, in a separate interview with Lakandiwa, Quirina Quijano narrated an incident which spurred controversy at the Lapu-Lapu shrine way back 2004. She recounted that five masculine men who brought flowers and goods visited the shrine.

“May mga lima ka lalaki nga nibisita diri puro mga dagko ug lawas. Nahibong ko ngano nagdala sila ug buwak ‘nya niana ang usa nga ‘te asa man ang rebulto ni Lapu-Lapu?” She quipped.

Quirina was very intrigued about the intentions of the five men who visited. She narrated that when she pointed out the shrine, one of the men immediately hugged the wall surrounding the shrine.

“Nigakos g’yud siya unya naghilak,’’ she added. These five men who were cousins offered the food and the flowers they brought to the shrine. According to Quijano, one man even said “Lolo, wala man ‘ta nagkita ug personal kani amo’ng pagduaw nimo tugon nani sa amo’ng apohan.”

Before these five men left, they even said to Quijano that they would be back someday. The said men who visited the shrine were from Davao City. At some point, they believe that they are indeed the descendants of the great hero.

Some people say that the bloodline of Lapu-Lapu cannot be traced anymore. It was believed that after the battle of Mactan, Lapu-Lapu and his family moved out of Cebu, because the Spaniards who were under Magellan were in search for him. And with the many families trying to claim for this, it is but hard to track down who the real descendants are.

Indeed, many accounts have been told about the life of the great hero. It has now even shaped our culture and our history. Despite the many tales told about his existence, what we deem to believe in today remains to be our discretion.

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Unliketheusualmealsthatyougettotasteeveryday,therearesomethatprovidecertainflavors,thus,tinglingyoursenses.So get your taste buds ready as Jeralyn T. Paculanang dishes out a buffet of stories that can either satisfy your food lust or turn your sensitive stomach upside down.

or most people, it is believed that a community’s rich cultural heritage can be mirrored in the celebration of food on their tables. Definitely, Cebu is a melting pot of hybrid gastronomy for its wide array

of the most unfathomable exotic cuisine ever.

With steeled stomachs and a hefty appetite for both food and adventure, the rural Cebuano perceives all animals as prospects to churn out a delicious bite, whether it’s a meal, a snack, or even just an appetizer to go along with their beverage of choice.

With this in mind, it is but a testament that in our kitchen, nothing is ever wasted.

Unconventional yet customary

As you tread deeper into the streets of Cebu, you’ll find some eatery offering Tuslob-buwa, a boiled pig’s brain and liver minced with spices, served with Cebu’s famous puso (hanging rice). This meal requires your bare hands to tuslob or dip the puso into a pan of the boiled brain and liver.

Another main dish found in the pungko-pungko stalls is the Ginabot or deep-fried pork

innards seasoned with spices, often dipped in vinegar, chilies, and onions. Aside from being a sought-after viand during meal time, it is also said to complement well with a bottle of ice-cold beer during hang-outs.

Lansiao (bull’s or horse’s genitals soup), on the other hand, is also a Cebuano favorite and is speculated to be an aphrodisiac or that of which enhances sexual performance. This dish is boiled gradually in a nutty, tomato-based soup that can be spiced up according to taste.

According to Anamelma Alburo, who sells exotic horse dishes in her carenderia at Bulacao, it is essential for the entrepreneur to be truthful with what he/she sells to the public so as to keep the trust of the customers in the business.

Some of the horse meals she cooks are Kinalderetang kabayo and Sinigang na Kabayo, which are respectively cooked similarly with the c o n v e n t i o n a l kaldereta and s i n i g a n g d i s h e s ,

except that the main ingredient is the horse meat.

For only Php20 per serving, you can enjoy this exotic treat. However, the said meals are not advisable for those who are suffering from arthritis, for it consequently agitates the illness.

Savor the seashore

Being an island, Cebu is blessed with immediate access to the bountiful riches of the sea. And with the plenitude of such natural resources comes a plethora of choices to prepare another sumptuous dish.

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FOTOS BY MARK KEVENSON S. RAMIREZ


In an interview with Lakandiwa, Josefina Racho, an owner of a seaside carenderia in Minglanilla, said that serving exotic foods help him in maintaining her customers, because there are patrons who prefer to eat out-of-the-ordinary cuisine; not just to fill their starving stomachs, but to feed their need for an increase in sexual drive as well.

Among her best-selling exotic meals include: Iho (Shark soup stew), Ubod (eel soup), and Kyampao (stingray or pagi) which is cooked with spices, kamias, tamarind, and (fermented black soya beans).

Based on www.yummy-cebu.com, one of the best aphrodisiac meals that Cebu has to offer is Bakasi, a stew made of eel-like edible sea water fish and spices.

Aside from its reputation as a potent aphrodisiac, its bile is also held in high regard as medicinal. It is eaten

un-gutted and intact. (The native insists that the eel eats only what is clean in the ocean.)

Cooking an ‘open secret’

However, not all exotic foods are authorized by the law. One example is the stewed sea turtle or pawikan. Often eaten

with corn grits and sold for only Php60/bowl, this meal is a presumed aphrodisiac and is prohibited from being sold to the public. But people from all walks of life converge at Pasil to taste this exotic dish.

Since 2001, the Wildlife Conservation Act or Republic Act No. 9147, has declared that hunting, killing, and selling endangered species like pawikan are banned. Individuals who will be caught violating it will be given a fine of up to Php100,000 and a penalty of imprisonment up to one year.

Stacy, not her real name, has divulged to Lakandiwa that such selling of marine species is an open secret known even to the police authorities who are also one the consumers of the illicit victual.

“Ma-shock na lang gani ko kung naa’y muabot nga pulis kay abi nako’g gi-raid ang lugar pero muapil pud diay sila ug kaon sa kato’ng pawikan,” she stated.

She also mentioned that although the

vendors are aware of the perils lurking behind this unlawful trade, their business will continue to carry on for an indefinite period because of the continuing demand for pawikan meat.

Indeed, our creativity and ingenuity in

food preparation and consumption of the exotic is motivated by hunger and survival as well as the delight and excitement of eating the bizarre.

At the end of the day, Cebu is not merely a place for those who seek for pristine waters, white sand beaches or tropical islands but also a haven for palatable culinary must-tries for foodies.

A community’s rich cultural heritage can be mirrored in the celebration of food on their tables.“

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digital alternative to earn some

A cash


words and, if available, a portfolio that could impress the client who wants a job done.

A proof that it really works

Clothing line Turbohectic’s main graphic designer Mon Miñosa, who is also a freelance graphic artist specializing in clothing designs since 2010, shared that during his first projects, he had to work with a very low compensation, because he still had a lot to prove.

“Pero sa nadugay, nag-improved na man pud ako’ng mga designs, so nitaas pud ako rate. Pero naa jud mga times na kung needed na jud ang money, mag-suicide na lang ko sa gamay nga presyo,” he added.

He also said that he does not have an average or steady amount of work, and the usual projects that he receives are to work on one or two shirt designs that gives him $120 each which is not really that big compared to other designers in the same area.

What and whatnots

Most of the time, online jobs do not demand contractors to log in at a certain time, which means that people can just decide whether they should start in early or late at dawn. It’s a benefit that makes yourself your own boss.

“Ang disadvantage lang pud kung magka-client na ka kay ug nahuman na ka sa imo gihimo, i-approve na niya, but on the next day, ipausab na pud tanan. So magsugod na pud back to zero. The worst kind is kana’ng mga clients na late na makahatag sa payment kay daghan kaayo’g mga reasons,” Mon furthered.

The idea of working at home and the possibility of earning more than the usual seem to radiate more perks than risks and disadvantages. Freelancing is recommended for those individuals who have what it takes to handle the challenge of proper time management.

However, a fair warning should also be taken note of by those who have yet to take on this trail. They must also realize that even simple clicks and taps on a mouse and keyboard can sometimes bring huge disappointments.

n an era in which the evolution of the digital world is still at its early age, one of the most helpful possibilities that has been introduced is the ability to earn a living inside the walls of your home while crouching or lying down on a sofa or bed and staring at a monitor while doing clicks and taps on a mouse

and keyboard.Finding jobs online is now a steadily

spreading digital fire that’s illuminating in almost all corners of the globe in a happy flare. With just a steady connection to the internet, people who have ample amount of skills in certain areas can engage themselves in online jobs in which, sometimes, the money quickly comes in a huge sum.

The basic process of finding work online is by browsing through certain websites wherein clients display job offers you can apply to. These jobs offer range categorically from writing and translation to web development and software development, customer service, graphic designs, among others.

The application process is apparently a show-off of convincing

Enjoying the ease the global web has to offer, Davinci J. Solidarios surfs on a single strand and shares the latest means of earning money through the wires.

Freelancing is recommended for those individuals who have what it takes to handle the challenge of proper time management.

i

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”

digital alternative to earn some


n today’s evolution of trends when foreign elements invaded the Filipino territory, not just in cuisines but also in the industry of music, entertainment, and fashion, Korean coating stands out among the many.

Korean music is loudly banging in the Philippine atmosphere. The Koreans’ entertainment is

entirely welcomed, and their fashion style is mimicked by countrymen.

Meet K-pop

Korean popular music or K-pop, as defined by www.wikipedia.com, is a musical genre consisting of dance, electronic, electro-pop, hip-hop, and R&B music originating from South Korea. This kind of music has been widely embraced not just in the Philippines but also in some parts of the globe and has pleased teenagers more than the other groups of people. One of the famous Korean songs that captivated the hearts of people around the world, most especially Filipinos, is the song Nobody by Wondergirls, which debuted in 2009. In the present, Psy’s Gangnam style is the trending Korean dance craze that hit

above hundred million views on Youtube.com after it was posted on July 15, 2012.

What pro and anti say

Chelsy Sacaday, a first year Business Administration student, shared that when she saw the TV programs Perfect Match and Secret Garden, she became a fan of K-pop. “Adto na nag-start ang ako’ng pagkaganahan sa ila mga songs. Ako gani kanta-kantahon niya ako’ng mga friends kay mag-act nga nag-nosebleed kay daw wala sila kasabot,” she quipped. Changes also had occurred to her through her gestures, expressions, and a bit about her style of dressing up (which are brought about by Korean fanaticism). “We’re free to adore foreign things as long as we are not forgetting to limit ourselves kung asa kutob ato’ng pag-adore so as to not forget who we are and most importantly, our being a Filipino,” she stressed. However, for Rose, a second year AB Psychology student, K-pop is a song that bugs a person off, because the lyrics of the song cannot be understood. “Factor baya g’yud sa usa ka song ang lyrics niya unsaon nimo pag-ganahan if sa lyrics pa lang gani wa na ka kasabot. For me, mo-matter jud na nga masabtan ang

lyrics kay lain nga maganahan ra ka sa usa ka kanta kay nindot ang melody, ‘nya ang message diay kay bati,” she commented.

Korean’s perspective

Sung Joo Yeon or Chloe, a Korean student of Uni Best English Clinic (UBEC) shared her thoughts about their sensational music, entertainment, and fashion style being welcomed by Filipinos. “It’s nice to hear that Filipinos liked our music, when in fact, Korean artists are just following the style of Hollywood artists. It’s just that, our style is a bit slow yet inviting. I also adore our music because of its simple melody,” she said.

The thing that always surfaces

Influence sets in when there’s fanaticism and the major step making it possible to surface is by following it. In every trend, there are those who adjust and there are those who like but only up to their ears and eyes. In a way or another, no matter how coated or altered one was brought about by the trend that’s foreign, there’s always one thing that’s registered in one’s body and soul that will classify where he/she belongs—that is the true nationality.

InthereigningempireofKoreaninfluenceinthePhilippines, Marjorie O. Borgador deciphers the

spell casted to Filipinos cloaking them in the foreign customs and pens her discoveries.

i In today’s evolution of trends when foreign elements invaded the Filipino territory, not just in cuisines but also in the industry of music, entertainment, and fashion, Korean coating stands out among the many.“ “

SEEING KOREA IN THE

PHILIPPINES


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oards, wheels, tricks, ramps, and unparalleled determination are just some of the things you need to spice up an uneventful afternoon. You might be wondering what magic it took for

guys (maybe some girls, too) to stick to this immensely thrilling sport.

An overview

Skateboarding, according to www.wikipedia.com, was born sometime in the late 1940’s or early 1950’s when surfers in California wanted something to surf when the waves were flat. These first skateboarders started with wooden boxes or boards with roller skate wheels attached to the bottom.

The boxes turned into planks, and eventually, companies were producing decks of pressed layers of wood—similar to the skateboard decks of today. During this time, skateboarding was seen as something to do for fun aside from surfing, and was therefore often referred to as “Sidewalk Surfing.”

Skateboarding aficionados

Joshua Salvacion, 19, a first year Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) student of the university, shared his personal experiences. According to him, skateboarding has been his hobby for almost five years now in which he started in Pacifica Skatepark, California.

“Di ko ganahan ug lain nga sport. Di man sad ko mahadlok madisgrasya kay part mana para makat-on ko,” he shared.

Jonasio Ehem, on the other hand, managed mixing business with pleasure. He is not only a skater but a dealer of skateboard parts as well. He also emphasized that his penchant with skateboarding is self-discovered and was not influenced by others.

Concave Skate Park

Founded by some students from the University of San Carlos (USC), Concave Skate Park started with a group project a year ago and ended up being a profitable and privately owned skate park along Gen. Echavez St.

In an interview with Lakandiwa, Gierome P. Magnanao (one of the founders of the Skate Park), who surprisingly is not a skateboarder by heart but a tennis varsity in USC, shared their experiences in pursuing the establishment of the business.

“We were challenged when we

surveyed skaters kay mura’g naka-ingon sila nga,’Lain na sad nga survey sa skate park ‘nya dili na sad madayon!’ With that, mura’g na-challenge mi nga i-pursue kay there is really a need for a skate park within the city,” he explained.

Just like any other skate parks, Concave also offers a variety of obstacles such as dual stairs, manual pad, pyramid with ledge, boxes, ramps, ledge with rails, kicker ramp, and a twenty-foot ledge.

The said park also conducts monthly competitions for skateboarders dubbed as “Skater of the Month” which will be adjudged by three professional skaters.

The winner will be posted on the succeeding month and will be given a month’s worth of free pass in the venue. It also offers non-stop skating from 12:00-9:00 PM daily in which skaters have to pay for as low as Php50.

Visioneri Landskate Park

Only 45 minutes away from the outskirts of downtown Cebu, lies this skating haven where beginners and pros alike can come together for a friendly competition. Visioneri Landskate Park was founded by Dr. Eugene Neri in Valleyview Subd., Mohon, Talisay City.

Inspired by the DC Shoe Skate Plaza in Ohio, USA, this skate park aims to suffice the needs of skateboarding Aside from having replicas of benches, stairs,

ledges, and handrails found along the streets, it also provides manual pads for special tricks.

There are also the five stairs, double-set, and transitions for those who want it to be a lot more challenging. Aside from that, it also has a skate shop that caters every skater’s needs.

Just recently, another international brand, DC Shoe Company, one of the skate park’s sponsors, welcomed foreign skaters from some of the countries such as Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and the United States to showcase their skateboarding skills in front of Cebuano spectators.

Converse Concept Park

Based on an article of www.sunstar.com, global brand Converse Philippines will install a permanent skateboarding park in 2014.

The oldest American shoe company is planning to promote the skateboarding culture in the country and would like to spend Php1.5 million for the said project.

Earlier, the company conducted the first Converse Asia Crown Skateboard Summit in which Filipino skater Rasheed Al-Rasheed was hailed the first official skateboarding ambassador of Converse Philippines. He will represent the country to compete in the upcoming skate event in China, the headquarters for Converse Asia Pacific.

Challenging and dangerous as it is, the skateboarding mania still remains fiery for those thrill-seeking beginners and perfection-striving pros. Indeed, these people have already discovered the enchantment of this sport. But for those who are yet to try, set up your boards and get ready to skate. Just be prepared to break one bone or two when you stumble down.


BEnthralling.Tricky.Extremeinnature.Adventure-personified.Kristelle Ivy M. Secuya brings into action the sport that has it all—skateboarding.


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ifted with the bounty of the wonders of nature and its rich culture, Cebu is yet to offer again another haven for the industry and its peo-ple. South Road Proper-ties—a path to a new Cebu.

Located at the east coast of Cebu City, South Road Properties (SRP) is a 300-hectare reclaimed land developed and owned by the city of Cebu. It is but a gro-wing hub for the city’s widely booming busi-ness, trade, and commerce.

SRP is now slowly in its rise as inves-tors come and go to venture out their busi-nesses in the lot. With the many companies venturing, SRP will surely be a place for de-velopment in the future.

The rise

The South Road Properties did not just sprout like a magic bean in its making. Ac-cording to www.cebucity.gov.ph, SRP was created through a 12-billion overseas deve-lopment assistance package extended by the Japan Bank for International Coopera-tion, the largest loan amount that the bank ever extended to a local government unit in the Philippines.

Also, according to the same website, the Philippine Economic Zone Authority which promotes world-class and environ-ment-friendly economic zones for foreign

investment has granted the SRP Special Economic Zone status. The property was initially conceptualized to host export-ori-ented light industries. Its evolution into a mixed-use area is a result of thoughtful con-sideration of economic realities, tipping the balance toward social relevance.

Of progress and opportunities

The growth of the SRP will lead to many opportunities for the people of Cebu. Employment, economic activities, health, education, and even leisure are just a few of what it has to offer in the future. The now va-cant lots will soon be a home to state-of-the-art facilities, shopping malls, post-graduate schools, hospitals, real estates, and many more.

Even one of the largest shopping malls will soon rise in SRP. SM Prime Holdings is developing its 52nd SM mall in the coun-try. With a total of 409,000 sq.m. lot, SM Seaside City Cebu will soon be the fourth biggest shopping mall in the world. With its high-end facilities like IMAX theater, Resi-dential towers, Hotel towers, Rooftop Sky-garden, SMX Convention Center, church, school, BPO, and an arena, the said mall will be a huge breakthrough not only to the lives of many Cebuanos but to tourists as well. The mall is expected to rise in the 3rd Quarter of 2014.

University of the Philippines Cebu will also open its post-graduate school in SRP. A five hectare land was given to the university

by Cebu’s former Mayor Tomas Osmeña. On the other hand, with the assistance of Sen. Serge Osmena III, UP was also given a Php30-million fund for the construction of the campus from the senator’s Priority De-velopment Assistance Fund.

The SRP campus will also include space for business process outsourcing (BPO) companies and technology-based in-dustries where students can work and study at the same time and excel as knowledge workers and information technology (IT) leaders.

On the other hand, Bigfoot Entertain-ment Inc. will also establish its first inter-national movie studio in SRP. This studio will be the first one to be built here in the Philippines. A two hectare land will have a director and producer offices, star dress-ing rooms and suites, wardrobe rooms, hair and make-up, art department, and camera and equipment rooms.

A lot of establishments will still be built in the South Road Properties. Indeed as time goes, progress will slowly be on the rise, making the queen city of the south the best in the world. In time, we won’t just be seeing wide roads with their vacant lots spreading widely in field. Soon we will see progress; we will see a new Cebu.

In time, we won’t just be seeing wide roads with their vacant lots spreading widely in field. Soon we will see progress; we will see a new Cebu.

Alongtheasphaltedroadsandwidegrassyfields,Daryl Maye Getubigfindsapathtoadeveloping Queen City of the South. “

“

When you wake up the next day facing the beautiful sunrise, it makes you forget your problems and makes you realize how wonderful the world is.


ith the densely-scattered fog enveloping its jagged hills, heavenly-blown wind gusting its lush

valleys and attractively-shaped trees and boulders adorning its awe-inspiring landscape, one would say that it looked like the location for one of those epic Hollywood movies.

Situated at an approximately 1,000 meters above sea level in Dalaguete, Cebu, Osmeña Peak is undeniably considered as the highest peak in the island province. It nestles in the midst of a hinterland with picturesque mountains inside Brgy. Mantalongon.

In an interview with Lakandiwa, Ian Lipa, a resident of the village, shared that the name Osmeña Peak was dubbed as such due to former president Sergio Osmeña Sr.’s first arrival on the mountain’s summit using his helicopter to take refuge during war time.

“ “

As the Chocolate Hills of Bohol continues to bask in the reputation of being one of the most well-celebrated tourist spots in the Philippines, Jeralyn T. Paculanang treks to show off another promising spectacle of nature, only awaiting for its just recognition.

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Full view of nature

The climb for mountaineers and travelers is rugged and steep but upon reaching the summit, the nature rewards you with a 360-degree panoramic view that includes the southwestern coastline of Cebu, province of Negros Oriental, and the Badian Island.

Northwest, you will be spotting the beaches of Moalboal and Panagsama white sand shorelines. Southeast from the summit, you can see the remaining vegetable farms of Mantalongon.

However, the vicinity is fenced and under private ownership. A lot keeper collects at least Php20 from each climber who enters the area. A few meters down, there is a campsite that has a toilet and bunkhouse available to the public for a fee.

Cebu’s Baguio

Through the Cebu Provincial Board Resolution 215-2006 dated January 23, 2006, Mantalongon was hailed as the Official Summer Capital or Little Baguio of the south for its cooler-than-the-usual breeze ranging from 18- to 25- degree Celsius, especially between the months of November and January.

Since it has also been coined as the vegetable basket of Cebu, various types of crops are being grown here such as cabbage, pechay (snow cabbage), carrots, sayote (chayote), eggplant, and squash.

These vegetables, in which 60 tons are harvested and delivered on a daily basis, make their way to the Mantalongon public market and Carbon market in Cebu City to be distributed around the region.

Trek to Kawasan falls

After reaching the mountain’s summit, explorers can opt to go for an arduous 6-hour trek along the contour of the valley to the famous Kawasan Falls in Brgy. Matutinao, Badian, to help relieve their exhausted bodies with its icy-cool waters.

It also features a three-level cascade, the second of which is mostly ideal for swimming. One can even rent bamboo rafts and relax while floating on the sparkling waters of the falls.

Promoting the peak

In his chat with Lakandiwa, Rodel Hiolen, a fourth year IT student and a mountaineer, said that the greatest asset of the place is the atmosphere itself, for the priceless reward that it conveys when one reaches the pinnacle.

“It’s the feeling when you witness the sunset after a long-distance walk that makes it a priceless reward. And also, when you wake up the next day facing the beautiful sunrise, it makes you forget your problems and makes you realize how wonderful the world is,” he expressed.

He also suggested that to draw the attention of more tourists to the peak, the government should also enhance the accessibility of the mountain by improving its trail.

To promote the summer capital of the south to the public, the local government held an off-road duathlon race in the mountains of Brgy. Mantalongon last May 12, 2012, in time for the fiesta celebration of their patron saint San Isidro Labrador.

As of the moment, Dalaguete’s mayor Ronald Allan Cesante and Badian’s mayor Roddolf Librando are seeking the assistance of Cebu governor Gwendolyn Garcia and DENR-7 so the mountain can be worth declaring as one of the “Natural Landscapes” in Cebu and in the country.

While the government is doing its part in preserving our natural resources, we must not also fail to do the same, because the conservation of our land and concern for the future of the entire environment are completely essential for the upcoming generations to enjoy the chance to experience nature at its finest.

ooted on the streets in the city are so-called dens that are casually trailed on and ignored by both the seemingly and the pure innocents.

Every once in a while, a person or two would enter these dens and in a few minutes, they would come out and hidden somewhere with them are one or more packets of plastic which only contain miniscule amounts of solid chemicals but cost over hundreds or thousands of pesos.

The packets of plastic they carry contain methamphetamine hydrochloride or crystal meth as it takes form in tiny white stones. In street terms, crystal meth is dubbed as shabu and carrying or distributing even a single peck of it is dangerously illegal.

Taking in dangerous breaths

Even with a stake of lifetime imprisonment if caught, crystal meth is still a very sought after underworld drug, which is apparently spread in almost all the cities in the country.

Papart (not his real name) shared why he continues to administer the so-called drug despite knowing the tight four walls that await to bar him up if he gets caught.

“Once nga mutalab na siya, automatic man gud dayon ko maka-feel ug kusog nga bisa’g giduka nako’g maayo, mawala jud.

Taking in these precious crystals is like boarding a runaway train that runs pretty fast yet leads to a dreadfully unclear destination.

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With a consciousness walking on tipped toes and with ears pressing hard on every hollow wall passed, Davinci J. Solidarios sinks deep into the underworld of precious rocks, wide-eyed users, and cautious dealers.

It’s something nga ginapangita jud nako bisa’g kabalo ko nga pwede ko mapriso,” he said.

Methamphetamine’s immediate effects on the users include temporary euphoria, increased state of alertness.It also creates a fake sense of energy that pushes the user’s body to its limits which results to extreme fatigue when the drug wears off. In the long run, regular intake of the substance can result to increased dosage, violence, physical deterioration, depression or, in worst cases, death.

Meth can be delivered via injection to the bloodstream. It can be smoked, snorted, or ingested. But the most common way of taking in the drug is by placing the dusts of crystals in a long strip of foil above a low flame and inhaling in the smoke that appears once the crystals start to melt.

Living beyond the borders of legality

Tucked inside a dwelling amidst the crisscross of cramped and easily-damped alleyways is Reddy (real name withheld) who treads on a similar path yet bags a heavier burden. In a house where the rays of daylight seem to never pass through, he shared his concerns on his daily encounters in his life of selling shabu.

“Kabalo ko nga pwede ko madakpan sa pulis ani sa ako’ng gihimo ug pwede pud ko i-blackmail sa ako’ng mga dealers, pero mao ra man ni ako’ng nahibawan nga

pamaagi aron mabuhi nako ako’ng pamilya. Ug usa pa, dagko kaayo ako’ng makuha na kwarta niining negosyoha. Unya daghan na pud ko’g napundar mao maglisod jud ko ug biya,” he confessed.

He also admitted that his family takes part in dealing the drugs to his customers. As his mother creates the paraphernalia and sells it for Php5 per piece to their patrons, their house is also being rented out, so the users can utilize it for their illegal activity.

Too much of something

Ironically, methamphetamine hydrochloride, in the medical field, is still used in the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and obesity. Although history has vague traces of how crystal meth spread like wildfire into the criminal world, it could be safely assumed that this drug was made for good, but too much of its intake caused an addiction that led to a global outbreak.

And with a little bit of light shed in the dark corners of the underworld, the conclusion to this undercover journey formed up a metaphor. Taking in these precious crystals is like boarding a runaway train that runs pretty fast yet leads to a dreadfully unclear destination. And the ticket doesn’t state whether it has a return trip or if it’s just a one way track.

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n a society where material needs and wants draw the line between living and dying, these young ladies who, instead of being stuck in the safety of their homes, are trading their bodies to men whom they don’t even know for an hour

or two in a sexual euphoria, not minding whether they are still young or not, because not even their homes can protect them from the misery-inflicted material hunger.

Pimping parents

Cherry, not her real name, was still 15 when her parents forced her to be recruited for Japan. Geishas and japayuki are still rampant during those days. However, when she was already in Manila, the authorities found out that her papers were faked and did not allow her to travel. There, she was stuck in a place she was not familiar with and with people she barely knew. Left with no other choice, that’s when she started to engage in prostitution. When she returned to Cebu after two years, she still continued giving a little bit of heaven to her customers who are big-time businessmen when she worked in a club. She was already 17 years old, then. “Nihawa siya sa club after five years kay dili naman siya mahalin. Didto siya nagsugod ug istambay sa ilaha,” Ann (real name withheld), one of her

acquaintances, disclosed. Cherry then thought that her prostitution days are over. However, her parents proved her wrong. “Pugson jud siya bisa’g maghilak pa na siya,” Ann shared.

Cherry’s mother looked for contacts of prospective customers for her daughter as she played mahjong and tong-its. While her father, on the other hand, regularly lays a bet on cockfighting. He would also pimp his daughter to his fellow gamblers. They would force her to dress up for a customer even if she’s not in the mood. Cherry’s “talent fee” would then be remitted to her mother to be used for her siblings’ needs. Her father, as Ann had accounted, maltreated Cherry when she refused to follow her parents’ command. Her mother would just stay mum, since she is under the influence of his husband. Now, Cherry is already married for two years to Carl (name also withheld) who was once her customer. She is now a contented housewife since her husband has a stable job.

Runaway rascal

Meanwhile, reprimands and petty family disputes have led 15-year old Kate (name withheld) to escape from the comfort zone built by her family for her. Little did

she know that she was about to face one of the biggest mistakes she could have ever done in her lifetime. “Namurikat siya paglayas niya sa ilaha kay wala naman siya’y lain kaadtuan n’ya dili na siya ganahan mobalik sa ilaha,” 10-year old Ferdinand, who is one of Kate’s close friends, relayed to Lakandiwa. He said he had befriended Kate since he, together with his 7-year old sister Cassandra, begs for alms from wanderers of Fuente Osmeña Circle. They said the park was already Kate’s bedroom. Kate, according to him, was still 14, then. He also confirmed that until now, Kate still continues to trade her body to men in exchange for a little amount of money that she uses to buy for her food. Ferdinand also mentioned that Kate’s mother knew very well what her daughter has been doing but did not exerted the effort to stop her daughter from ruining her life.

Misguided souls

Desperation indeed pushes a person to great lengths in a million ways one cannot ever imagine. Parents are supposed to protect their children, not trade them to some Pontius Pilate for whatever he can give in return, for in a society where morality is one of the most important values, condemnation is the only possible way to render these women’s justice.

“ Desperation indeed pushes a person to great lengths in a million ways one cannot ever imagine. Parents are supposed to protect their children, not trade them to some Pontius Pilate.”

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Looming behind dark alleys and quiet sidewalks are souls hungry for money and earthly pleasures. But is iteverreasonableenoughtosacrificeyourownfleshandblood just to have these? Kristelle Ivy M. Secuyafindsout.

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A society which looms to develop into an immensely robust body reveals a lucrative yet deceptive practice that lures many individuals toward its black hole. Aware of such pitfall, Jeralyn T. Paculanang scribbles the reality of this sneaky system.

LAKANDIWA MAGAZINE||OCTOBER 201218FOTO BY CESAR V. LEDESMA, JR.

o every action there is always an equal and opposite reaction. Nothing can best describe the existence of this dark operation but this Newton’s third law of motion. The endeavor starts when the government declares something to

be unlawful. Eventually, it results to the adherence of the people to the stipulated mandate. But even though a commodity becomes outlawed, the general public may continue to demand for it. As a result, the underground market secretly jumps in to cater the community’s demand. It is also due to man’s innate entrepreneurial personality, coupled with the government’s propensity to regulate, that these off-the-book activities continue to thrive all over the place.

The underground market

Contrary to the notions of being a physically visible environment, the black market is an economic activity in which the products are being illegally bought and sold. It was called as such since this activity is carried out in the dark or under the radar of the law enforcers. Extensive selection of goods, over the years, has been sold in the black market. Such things may be prohibited to be sold like weapons or illegal drugs, stolen mobile phones, and jewelry. Some products, however, are legal goods sold illicitly to evade tax payments or licensing requirements like cigarettes or unregistered firearms. While the consumer’s demand is met, it is more often that the seller or black marketer is the one who profits from the transaction. The risk that he/she takes in obtaining and selling a good is also included in the price. Black market prices tend to

skyrocket due to lesser supply and constant demand. If it is a difficult good to acquire, basically, it will have a higher price. At a certain time, prices can be lower if the seller has lower “overhead cost,” because he/she stole it or is avoiding hefty taxes.

Impact in the industry

According to www.about.com, when an administration makes a product illegal, we tend to see two things happen: A sharp drop in supply, as the penalties for selling the merchandise cause people to shift into other industries; or a drop in demand, as prohibition of possessing the merchandise prevents some people from wanting to buy it. The shift in supply and demand causes the quantity consumed of the black market to decrease while the price rises. If the demand dominates, we will still see a drop in quantity consumed and in price. Apart from that, black market possessions will cost the industry billions every year in sales lost, price erosion, among others as its sales will lower the demand for products produced by companies. Consequently, it will be a ground for the business to reduce the number of its workers, or most terribly, shut down the entire industry leading to an increase in the percentage of poverty and unemployment.

A matter of survival For Bruce (real name withheld), a father of five children and a black marketer, selling in such unofficial market is not about a battle of integrity but a matter of survival for his entire family. “Unsaon man nato ang integridad kung wala ta’y makaon sa matag adlaw? Syempre mas importante g’yud nga mabuhi ang ako’ng pamilya, mao na buhaton nalang jud nako ‘ni bisag mamaligya ko’g mga kinawat nga butang,” he lamented.

Although he admitted being anxious about being caught by the local authorities, Bruce disclosed that he cannot discontinue such risky business for he believes that his lack of education will impede him from getting a decent job.

‘Like a game of cat and mouse’ In an interview with Lakandiwa, Cebu City market administrator Raquel B. Arce explained that this illegitimate trade is difficult to wipe out as it is like a game of cat and mouse in which during the visibility of the law enforcers, the underground marketers will put themselves out of sight. “The problem here is that you have to catch them in the act jud aron dili na sila makaikyas, and to do that, we need the public’s cooperation to provide us with information,” she added. With the discernment that the public ought to secure themselves from the hazards of divulging the violators’ identity, she is aware that it will be a tough job to obtain the support of the public.

The possible outcome

Nevertheless, this black market will remain in its being and will keep on booming under various forms of management. Its elimination cannot be achieved by government action alone. It should also involve an agreement on the part of the government and ordinary citizens as to which goods may be traded, as well as an overall alteration in the awareness of people to ethical and legal aspects of commercial trade. One way or another, this illegitimate scheme will establish a route to cripple the economic system of the entire nation. It may not happen overnight, but when it does, we might wake up one day realizing that suppressing it may be futile.

It is due to a man’s innate entrepreneurial personality, coupled with the government’s propensity to regulate, that these off-the-book activities continue to thrive all over the place.

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OCTOBER 2012|LAKANDIWA MAGAZINE 19FOTO BY CESAR V. LEDESMA, JR.

he dark night had come signaling the multicolored lights with inviting rhythm to work its ways engulfing the nocturnal guests to their way of enjoyment. Mixed

sounds of chats, cheers, and clinking of glasses are barely audible against the vibrant music that filled the room mobbed with social beings.

When the going got palpable, the night began to be filled with mysterious motions unrecognizable to innocent souls but normal for adults. There went an event that brought May Francis Hilacan to early motherhood.

Her early motherhood

“Nahadlok ko ug nakulbaan pagkabalo nako nga buntis ko kay wala ko kahibaw unsa’y umaabot kung magbuwag mi sa ako’ng boyfriend. Wala ko’y

ika-suporta sa ako anak,” May lamented.

She was saddened that after graduating high school at the age of 16, she got pregnant and failed her parents’ expectations on her (although she was already helping them for she started working at young age).

How it all started

Enjoying the night life at the age of 14, she confessed that there was an incident when the usual drinking hours of their group reached until dawn and led to an accident. When she woke up the next day, she was already in the hotel room with her boyfriend.

“Wala g’yud ko kabalo ngano naabot ko sa hotel. Siguro kay hubog na kaayo ko mao wala nako’y nahinumduman,” she said.

She added that she was mindless that something happened, because her clothes

were still on. Two weeks had passed before she found out her pregnancy.

“Nakabantay ako mga officemates nga hingatugonkaayo ko mao ‘to usa nila kay gihimulsuhan ko niya nahibong siya nga doble ako pulso. Ingon siya nga basta doble daw kay buntis daw na,” she narrated.

Mindful of what her officemates had commented, she bought a pregnancy testing device and tried it on. The result was positive!

Being unprepared for the upcoming responsibility, she thought of aborting the baby, but she was discouraged by her boyfriend. All her worries were put to rest when the guy had faced her parents which gave her the assurance that she’s not taking the responsibility alone.

Ashamed for the possible reaction of the people around her, most especially of her family, May had kept her pregnancy as secret.

“Pag-una wala dayun nako gisaba nga buntis ko kay mahadlok ko sa posibleng reaksyon sa mga tawo hilabi na sa ako’ng family. Dili ra man

sad maklaro kay gamay man ako tiyan, five months na siya kay mag mini-shorts gihapon ko,” she shared.

But her secret was unveiled when her officemates saw the results of her prenatal checkup after rummaging the contents of her bag when checking its quality due to their admiration.

Henceforth, the child served as her inspiration which strengthened her armor in facing the new world. And being true to his promise, her boyfriend helps her in sustaining their baby’s needs since he already has a job.

Lesson learned

Every one has pages of struggles and misfortunes in the chapter of life, but May got hers at her young age. What happened to ladies like her may have not set a good example and may have activated the judgmental instincts of the people, but they are just human beings who are not exempted from committing mistakes.

Nahadlok ko ug nakulbaan pagkabalo nako nga buntis ko kay wala ko kahibaw unsa’y umaabot kung magbuwag mi sa ako’ng boyfriend. Wala ko’y ika-suporta sa ako anak.

As teenage motherhood becomes an epidemic of the society, Marjorie O. Borgador shares a victim’s story whose feelings are ignored by unaffected souls.

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hile tanning fashion is in for the white westerners, the other side of the world preferred skin whitening, like in the case of

some Filipinos—both the celebrities the commoners.

That is the reason why diversified whitening products in almost all stores nationwide are marketable and profit-maker to sellers and manufacturers, for these products are liked and vastly consumed by the public. These said products include

soaps, lotions, creams, pills, deodorants, and even laser and surgical treatments.

However, there are numerous health concerns related to skin whitening products. Hydroquinone has been linked to leukemia in laboratory mice and has been banned in the European Union. Many skin whiteners also contain trace amounts of mercury which has been known to be toxic for many years.

Skin bleaching in olden times

Asian, African, Latin American, and Middle Eastern cultures cherish fairness stemming back to ancient Japan and China. During their time, whiter skin was a noble status for beauty and social rank.

During the Achaemenid dynasty in Persia (now Iran), field workers and farmers who were routinely exposed to the sun used pure hydroquinone, a natural chemical compound, to help keep their skin soft and light in color; and to offset the tanning they get from basking under the sun.

The Chinese, as well, have their unique ways to bleach their skin by grounding pearls from seashells and swallowing them.

White is dazzling As Lakandiwa rummaged around the vicinity of the Queen City of the South, they found out that a good number of people, particularly girls, love to have pinkish-white skin all over their body.

“For me, being maputi is a good thing. Kana gani’ng ma-proud pud ang imo’ng boyfriend na isuroy ka unya head turner ka. Para nako mas makaingon jud ko nga

With an itinerant eye, Jamila L. Malahay unfolds the individual’s point of view on whitening products.

For me, being maputi is a good thing. Kana gani’ng ma-proud pud ang imo’ng boyfriend nga isuroy ka unya head turner ka. Para nako mas maka-ingon jud ko nga gwapa or gwapo kung puti.

Wgwapa or gwapo kung puti,” according to Natashia (real name withheld), a saleslady in a cosmetic store.

In contrast, Aldrich (not his real name), believes that being a Filipino is enough to be stunning. He accepted as true that girls should not add more embellishments on their face to catch a guy’s attention or to be the center of attraction, for he believes that simplicity is beauty.

He is not into such things for he considers buying make-up, beauty products, and whitening stuff as an additional expense to one’s budget. He also added that what matters most is the inside beauty of a person and not the way he or she looks.

The underlying principle

Their effectiveness in treating skin pigmentation disorders, such as acne, blemishes, spots, or freckles is what earned them their fame in the cosmetic field. Aside from improving the texture and tone of the skin, some skin whitening products include active ingredients that diminish the effects of the aging factors and even alleviate and eliminate scars and birthmarks.

In some nations like Vietnam, Dominican Republic, Brazil, and India, bleaching skin has created an enormous societal pressure in which chances of being hired for a job was better if lighter-skinned. It started to become a controversial topic and stirred issues of racial supremacy and self-identity on top of the dangers of bleaching skin.

We cannot blame the modern society for criticizing skin whitening. What transpired in history is not easy to forget and the quest for whiter beauty is still misinterpreted for racial alteration and disapproved for health hazards.

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SUCCINCT MINUTIAE FOR THE

ELECTION2013ilipinos are, without a doubt, privileged enough to have freedom in doing mottled demeanors that they opted to. For

some, independence is not a grave issue divergent to other nations where people thirst and long for sovereignty.

One of the civil liberties of Juan de la Cruz’s race is the right to vote and to choose whom they construe will be the most suitable leaders in the near future. As of press time, it is most likely felt and perceived by individuals that the synchronized elections for the year 2013 is undoubtedly fast approaching.

Information pertaining to the schedule of the upcoming elections from www.comelec.gov.ph uncovers that pursuant to Section 2 of Republic Act No. 7166, the next national and local elections are scheduled on the second Monday of May 2013, which falls on the13th.

For authenticity, the required advertisement paraphernalia, if there is any, is also presented on the site by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC).

Potential entrants in Cebu City For the imminent selection of leaders,

Mayor Michael “Mike” Lopez Rama aspires to be re-elected as the Cebu City mayor,

together with Cebu City councilor Edgar Labella who’s running for the position of vice mayor.

Jointly, they compose Team Rama with the aim of continuing their service to the people of Cebu City along with the aspiring Department of Transportation and Communications Undersecretary Aristotle Batuhan, a lawyer, as the South District Representative; and talent manager/actress Annabelle Rama as the North District Representative.

On the other hand, the opposing party, Bandok Osmeña Pundok Kauswagan (BOPK), is headed by Congressman Tomas “Tommy” de la Rama Osmeña (who is vying for the Mayor’s chair) and Joy Augustus Young as the vice mayor.

Concealed objectives and wrecked guarantees

While looking through the places in Cebu City, Lakandiwa found out that nearly all electorates were already whacked of hearing promises from politicians who, for them, were just sugarcoating themselves in order to procure the voters’ sympathy and vote.

Aling Nena (real name withheld), a fruit vendor for four years now, vented out her frustrations caused by a certain politician who promised her family a help in building

a new house after a fire turned the little fortune they had into ashes.

“Pero wala jud mi nadawat bisan piso. Maayo lang na sila samtang nangampanya,” she disclosed.

You decide It is indisputably palpable that the

people who take part in the ballot and even civilians yearn for the betterment of the politicians. There is also a bit of hope in their heart that anticipates for progress in their status of living; that a candidate’s purpose for running in a certain position is not just about filling one’s pocket but voters’ stomach as well.

Nonetheless, the future of many lies in the decision that each voter will make. Whatever verdict it may be, it will be very much appreciated if it is untainted with any sort of anomaly such as voting for the sake of receiving money stapled in sample ballots.

Before casting your ballot, think all over again if that politician is capable of accomplishing all responsibilities assigned to him/her during a certain period of time given without any hidden agendum. For at the end of the day, we are the only persons accountable for every vote we cast.

Before witnessing voters with ink-soiled thumbs, foreseeing that another voting session will soon take place on the horizon, Jamila L. Malahay reveals the preparations of political aspirants for the upcoming elections in the coming year.

The future of many lies in the decision that each voter will make. Whatever verdict it may

be, it will be very much appreciated if it is untainted with any sort of anomaly.“ ”

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f I were to answer about my greatest achievement in life, it would be, just maybe, to see my father smile while I walk to the stage holding my college diploma. For some, graduation is just an ordinary event in someone’s life.

But for me, it is one of the best things I can give to my parents in return for the love they gave me. When I was high school, I wished to graduate with honors, but as I was elected as the vice president of our student body, I enjoyed so much on my extracurricular activities leaving my academics behind. When the fourth grading ended, I didn’t know how to tell my dad that I only got the twelfth rank of the graduating class. I pretended that I didn’t care, but, honestly, since that day, I just had the first and greatest regret of my life. So when I first entered this university, I had always thought of seeing my name on the list of the top students, but unfortunately, I missed two semesters. Although I am really not into computers, I gave my best during the first two semesters. At first, I aimed to see my grade all in line of one, for that would give me the greater chance to graduate with flying colors. However, my dreams faded with my teenage years, because of the different things the city has to offer. I settled with at least 3.0 on my grade sheet (though I fortunately never had this grade) which made me frustrated now. Now that I am about to graduate, (I’m keeping my fingers crossed.) I have my share of regrets. If I could only turn back time, then maybe, I would’ve given my best. For the students who just started, you’re lucky enough to hold the chance of becoming a very good individual when you graduate. You still have the years to work on your dreams.

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“Onceyouaimforsomething,makeitasyourfirstpriorityand never let anything distract you along the way.”

Never waste the chance you have. Many people of your age who want to study are working in burger stands, call centers, grocery stores, among others, because their parents cannot send them to school. That mere fact makes you even blessed to be studying. You’re even luckier for you have allowance to spend, while others of your age have to work hard to feed their family. Look around you, there are parents who cannot even feed their children because being unable to finish college leaves them unemployed. In fact, some of their children are forced to steal someone else’s food, because they don’t know how to feed themselves. Walk around the Colon Street and you will witness a number of people who make it as their bed at night. Now, try to count the people who are suffering badly before they can earn a few bills to feed their mouths (while you can just easily go to the malls to buy whatever food you want). I am not saying all these to preach. It’s not my intention to share the problems of the community for we may end up with sleepless nights if we will mind. Instead, I just want you to see how lucky you are to be here today—enjoying the money you didn’t work for as you walk toward your dream. Every one of us has dreams in life. We all have reasons why we’ve chosen to go to school instead of staying at home doing nothing. And once you aim for something, make it as your first priority and never let anything distract you along the way. When I passed the entrance exam of the Philippine Military Academy last 2010, I learned that once you dream, you should focus on it and work hard for it. When we had to wake up early in the morning for our calisthenics, march almost

every time we have to go someplace, and eat within a few counts, I realized that my dream was really not a joke and that I had to bring out the best in me; thing that I never did, thing that may have contributed to my failure (although I was diagnosed with double scoliosis). If I could only turn back time, I could’ve studied hard for the past years or at least worked hard to achieve my dream, could’ve not skipped classes, and could’ve listened diligently to my teachers. I could’ve taken things seriously. But things seem a bit late for me. What’s left is the smallest chance of graduating with flying colors. I am slowly letting go of that dream, because I know on my part, I did nothing for it. Yes, many people have tapped my back and sent messages to me saying that they looked up to me, because I am the editor in chief, but honestly, it doesn’t follow. What you have been in school may be part of the history, but what you’ve worked hard with your academics is something that you can always be proud of anywhere you go. If given the chance, I will leave the university this March. I am letting go of the regrets I have here. I am taking my mistakes as a lesson. For some whose aim is to graduate with flying colors, work hard for it while you still have the time. When you dream of something and you work hard for it, nothing will be impossible with the help of God. Work for your dreams and they will all become real. Like what one of my favorite teachers said, it is always better to be one step ahead. It’s never too late for you. Start it now. Hit the target!

For comments, email the writer at [email protected] or follow her on twitter, iamkrizzyfrog.

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am writing this with full conviction and with a faint attempt of understanding the woes that most of us, students, carry on our backs today. More often than not, we find ourselves routinely going in and out of the school

with a few lines memorized from some of our teachers’ ungodly speech. “Sus Ginoo nimo’ng bataa ka!” “Jesus Maria!” some may say. I’m telling you, you’re lucky enough if you’d be named after someone holy. Truth is, these lines are just foreplays to their speeches. Real talk comes with a hundred reasons why they are thrilled to fail you with grin on their faces. I have come across teachers who are just engrossed in seeing failing grades on their sheets, and I have heard stories about them from students who wished they had a chance to freely choose their instructors during enrollment.

Teachers have their own tricky little ways in making our hearts skip the moment they speak about themselves. Some say they can be your worst nightmares while some just put their makeup on (if you know what I mean).

In more ways than one, we often think of our teachers as our second parents. We believe that they provide us the prowess and the knowledge that would enable us to grow as the person that we want to be in the future. We expect from them the wisdom that will aid us in our need for understanding. And most likely, we expect them to carry out the proper morals that we should follow and look up to.

Unfortunately, what we expect from them sometimes turn out to be just the

“Moreoftenthannot,wefindourselvesroutinelygoingin and out of the school with a few lines memorized from some of our teachers’ ungodly speech. ”

opposite. Instead of providing us the knowledge that we need in school, we see some teachers skipping classes—leaving the students empty and a bit happy about the fact that they’re not around. Instead of acquiring wisdom, we hear some teachers having a bad sense of judgment. And instead of being a good example, we see some teachers yelling around at security guards, manipulating evaluation sheets, mishandling funds, and cat fighting with their fellow teachers.

We hear some of them talking clearly with their lapel microphones on but why can’t we seem to comprehend? We hear them with loud and clear voices but why do their words seem to be inaudible? We see some of them bringing heavy books in class but why do they just read? Can’t they just explain?

While other teachers are keeping a silent tone in class, some tend to curse loudly in the air—speaking words not of wisdom but of vain. Talking trash is common to some teachers. While others are keeping track of the students’ scores, some tend to easily manipulate the digits in their class records. While others are hurrying to catch their classes, some just walk leisurely at the portals and arrive 15-30 minutes late. And while others believe that good teaching comes from great experience, some just open their reference books and talk in verbatim like a robot with an almost empty battery life.

Indeed we hear different stories about our teachers. Our bare eyes see what is there to be seen. We’ve witnessed how some of our teachers become the person we did not expect them to be.

On the other side of the coin, we see the other half of the teachers living up to the standards of being the good one. We see this other half being so natural in their profession. We often credit them for handing us more than enough knowledge that we need. We see them not just teachers but as friends—offering us not just books but experiences.

However, it is but sad and true that they are just a few. It is a fact that we rarely talk about them because we already know how good and how capable they are. And we are well aware that these teachers have given us more than what our minds have asked for.

I personally don’t have anything against any of those teachers mentioned above. I respect their effort and style in teaching. I am writing this because I felt the need to express what my fellow students, who share the same sympathy as I, feel. And I am writing this in, again, a faint attempt of letting some teachers realize what they have been doing. I am neither trying to moralize nor teach, because I know less about it yet. And I know that no one except the teachers themselves can change what has been criticized. I expect nothing but open-mindedness from teachers who might actually have something to say about what I am writing. I’m just saying.

For comments & reactions, email the writer at [email protected] or follow her on twitter, therealmaye.


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here always comes a point in our lives when we unconsciously tuck our rationality into the deepest parts of our thoughts.

It’s not that we’re stubborn. It’s just that

there are things we want to do, but a lot of reasons tell us not to since that is what our society dictates us. We try to conform to the norms of the social order we are stuck in; not because we want to be accepted, but because we are left with no other choice.

If somebody would be asking me what I’m thinking right now, I’d rather stay mum than let even a single soul alive know how disappointingly low I feel my morale is as of this moment. You might think I’m a pathetic little bitch but to tell you frankly, I don’t give a damn. Besides, I already stopped caring about practically anything several weeks ago. Well, partly anything.

I don’t want to sound cynical but if I don’t look for somewhere to vent out my frustrations right now, you might find me tomorrow wearing a white hospital gown, screaming like a banshee. So here it goes.

Several years ago, I was still that ham-fisted girl who kept running here and there, not caring with whatever the hell’s happening with the world. I could even boldly say, “To hell with the world! I will do anything that I want.”

But now, here I am, wishing I’d go back to the time when all I would do was argue with myself whether to lick or to bite that pink-and-white lollipop the oldies gave me, not obliged to think of reasons to things that are driving my sanity into haywire.

“Five to ten years from now, I’m sure you will be able to laugh off the stupidity brought about by your youth once those things will be recounted.”

I used to criticize other people who depend their entire lives on others. I laugh at people who ask for others’ opinions before deciding for themselves. I raise my eyebrows to those people who couldn’t even stand for what they believed. And I couldn’t decide whether to feel remorse or disgust for those who allow themselves to be seriously manipulated by their sentiments.

Then along came my turn to be on those people’s shoes. Before I knew it, everything about me deliberately depends on others already—before my decisions, then my actions, sometimes my thoughts, and now my happiness. Truly, as what they say, don’t decide on something you’re not sure of yet. The worst part is I lost it. I totally did.

Time flies, they say, especially when you’re in a sense of euphoria. Indeed. But why not when you’re in oblivion? One of the stupid ironies of life. Right now, I really feel as if life and fate had connived in order to accomplish one major mission: to make me forget how I once lived my life without the things I am now used to having.

Regrets, well, they’re the sucker of everyone’s life, the epitome of a perfect nightmare that forever haunts you. Actually, it’s not the regret itself but the ‘what ifs’ that goes along with it. What if I didn’t do that? What if I took the chance? What if I didn’t make that choice? What if . . . Blah-blah-blah.

Point is, you can’t go back to where you once were. Once you’re all grown-up and mature, you won’t be able to do those reckless things you were once

used to doing, because you know your actions would greatly affect other people. It’s not like that when you were still a child that you can just laugh your heart out when you stumble down. I realized you have to have to look after your actions.

If you’ll ask me where I got all these hilarious ideas I wrote, well, it slapped me—big time. Fate gave me a huge blow for the things that I was dumb enough to not care a long time ago. In all fairness, I think I indeed deserve the credit (*sarcasm*). Stupid enough to even think about it, but that’s reality and it really bites.

Anyway, life goes on. It’s always better if we see what’s ahead than look at what’s left behind. You can’t expect the world to stop just because you’re still mourning over a spilled milk. If things didn’t turn out the way you imagined it to be, then let it be. Don’t stress yourself thinking how to make things happen despite the fact that you know, maybe subconsciously, that it is really impossible.

Besides, five to ten years from now, I’m sure you will be able to laugh off the stupidity brought about by your youth once those things will be recounted. You’ll only remember it as a paradox of how insensible you were at a point or two in your life. Charge it to my experience. Trust me, I’ve been there. And I still am.

Share your thoughts, email the author at [email protected] or follow her on twitter, biangsecuya.

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Legends are one of the highlights of every place. They make up every locale’s history and defineitsculturesandtraditions.

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ccording to myth, a municipality in the southern part of Cebu derived its name from an abundantly-growing

plant locally known as sali-argaw. As the story goes, a group of Spanish officials came to the town and asked a villager, some localities claim that the latter was a fisherman, what the name of the town was.

Not able to comprehend what the foreign tongue meant, the villager presumed that the Spanish official was referring to the sali-argaw plants which were growing abundantly in the area at that time, since the foreigners were waving their arms to mean the entire place.

Hence, the villager simply said sali-argaw. Since then, the Spaniards named the place as El Pueblo de Argao. From that day, the number of Spaniards arriving at the area grew to formalize the establishment of the pueblo and hailed Don Felipe Lucero as the town’s first gobernadorcillo.

ystical powers and magical amulets are also part of the Cebuano history. Take for example that famous street

within the downtown area. And why is this connected to legends? Here’s why.

There was once a man from Bacong, Negros Oriental named Pantaleon Villegas who once worked for a German pharmacy owner and had experienced as a jock in horse racing. His friends and mere acquaintances described him as well-mannered, respectful, sociable, and conversational.

He seemed ordinary, though, except that his sister, Silvestra Villegas-Tindoc, swore that his brother could swallow the blade of a long dagger up to its handle. Not only that, she also attested that Villegas could fold the dagger with one hand while turning a gold coin into dust on the other.

n the highest mountain of Argao, in the cave of Lantoy, there once lived a very beautiful woman called Maria

Cacao. As what the old folks recounted, she was a fairy who would sometimes come down and show herself to the townspeople when the moon was full.

She was called Maria Cacao after her huge cacao plantation on the mountain. In fact, she would sometimes travel to America to sell her cacao.

Sali-Argaw

The Lightning General

Goodbye, Maria Makiling! Hail, Maria Cacao!

Hidden beneath every urban town lies different stories passed on from generation to generation and historical tales eventually forgotten through the span of time. Kristelle Ivy M. Secuya attempts to uncover some legends kept in archives from the wires that have long been part of ancient Cebu.

Another unnamed person also averred seeing him ride on a handkerchief on his way to Cebu. Even the men who fought under his leadership in the 1898 Revolution claimed that several amulets have bestowed him invulnerability to bullets. It was said that only the cold steel of a dagger could kill him.

Furthermore, Villegas’s death was unsurprisingly no less bizarre. Just like Jesus Christ on the Bible, he also died on a Good Friday. It was when the luck of war turned against Cebuano warriors on the Maundy Thursday of 1898. When afternoon came, Villegas and other Katipuneros marched weary and wounded to the town of Carcar in the southern part of Cebu.

They arrived to the town by nighttime and were billeted in the house of First-Capitan Municipal Timoteo Barcenilla. A festive banquet was held to commend the arrival of the rebellious leader. Little did he know that a group of the town’s elite wanted him dead.

At dawn, it was certain that it was Apolinario Alcuitas, who was Pantaleon’s right-hand man, who did the honors of stabbing him. The murderer successfully removed the casulla-like anting-anting from Villegas before driving the cold iron dagger into his chest. So it came to pass that the man from Bacong, Negros Oriental became Leon Kilat, Cebu’s Lighting General.

From her travels, Maria Cacao usually brought new utensils, silverware, and chinaware. The townspeople used to borrow these items for celebrating festivities.

It is said that anyone who wished to use Maria Cacao’s things simply asked for them at the mouth of the cave. On the next day, without fail, these things would be delivered to the borrower’s door. However, some townspeople failed to return things they borrowed from her.

For her trips, Maria Cacao used a huge golden ship. Because of its size, sometimes its mast would snag on the bridge of Argao, collapsing it.

When the Americans were about to build a concrete bridge in Argao, the people said to one another, “The new bridge will have to be very high so that the golden ship of Maria Cacao could not snag it.”

One day, an engineer went to Maria Cacao’s cave and begged her not to pass by the Argao River so the bridge would not be destroyed again. Maria Cacao was said to have agreed. Hence, nothing has happened to the bridge of Argao since then.

However, the people cannot borrow utensils for their feasts anymore. Nor have they seen Maria Cacao. Maria Cacao no longer appears to the townspeople. It is said that Maria Cacao has learned a lesson.

Sometimes, when the townspeople receive news that a bridge somewhere is destroyed, they immediately say, “It may be due to the golden ship of Maria Cacao. Now she has probably moved to another place and has to pass by another river.”

Legends are one of the highlights of every place. Unknowingly, it makes up every locale’s history and defines its cultures and traditions. Indeed, Cebu has a rich a collection of these remarkable treasures. Why not? You wouldn’t be able to see people wearing anting-anting and bringing sundang walking on Colon, would you?


ILLUSTRATION BY REY D. MAGSAYO

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Working catalyst

Being accepted as one of the facilitators in CWTS and one of the fortunate members of the Association of Working Scholars were few of the countless blessings that assisted her to persevere in chasing her ambition.

“Lisod pud ug adjust sa ako’ng oras kay nag-eskwela gud ko, nag-working then inig Sabado kay mag facilitator. Tungod sa akong kakapoy kay nakasuway ko nga nakatog sa Physics lab,” she revealed.

She also made much effort in earning for additional proceeds by working as a labandera in an employed old maid’s premise by means of washing and ironing clothes, cleaning the surroundings, and even plucking white hairs for Php150 per week.

Poverty is not a hindrance

Their difficulties in financing their daily needs were never a barrier for Ana to achieve variety of awards. She was a consistent first honor from grade one to fourth year high school and also did stand out after joining competitions, both academic and extracurricular.

During college, she took up Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education major

in Mathematics. She also graduated with honors.

According to her, she is not that intelligent but was just very motivated to succeed in her studies, because she doesn’t want her siblings to experience all the sufferings that she had been through.

2008 CHEd data

According to 2008 data from Commission on Higher Education (CHEd), out of 100 pupils who enrolled in Grade 1, only 66 finished Grade 6. From 66 pupils who graduated in elementary, only 58 of whom enrolled in high school but only 43 graduated. 23 out of 43 went to college but only 14 earned a degree. The most common reason—poverty.

However, Ana Mae’s story proved that financial insufficiency was never a hindrance in achieving one’s ambitions.

As of press time, she is handling Math subjects in elementary and high school at Cherubs Academy. At the same time, she is reviewing every Sunday for the upcoming teacher’s licensure examination this September.

Abundant blessings come to those who have unwavering resoluteness, unfaltering perseverance, and steadfast faith in God.

Her existence and experiences, when summed up, can somehow be compared to a motivational book for those who want to gain encouragement and to spur their lifeless state of affairs. Just few inspiring thoughts from her story will boost up a fading hope and will inspire a person to pursue his out-of-this-world dreams.

Despite money deficiency

From Dugoan, Sibonga, Cebu dwelt a scholarly lady who is the eldest among three children of industrious farmers. Her parents relied on her to finish studying for the betterment of their future.

But her life was thorny, for trials were with her in chasing victory. She could still remember the adversities that she has encountered when she was still residing in their native land.

“Dili pud to lalim amo’ng kalisod sauna. Nakahinumdom pa jud ko nga pukawon ko ug sayo sa buntag sa ako’ng mama para manglimpyo ug mangguna sa amo’ng baul,” she let dropped.

Born in a peaceful place, she also shared how difficult it was to live and study in a densely inhabited place like Cebu wherein existing without a penny is like kayaking without a paddle—you can hardly survive.

Dili pud to lalim amo’ng kalisod sauna. Nakahinumdom pa jud ko nga pukawon ko ug sayo sa buntag sa ako’ng mama para manglimpyo ug mangguna sa amo’ng baul ” OCTOBER 2012|LAKANDIWA MAGAZINE 27

“

Upon discovering an inspiring story which attests to no obstructions, Jamila L. Malahay unleashes and notches.

ILLUSTRATION BY REY D. MAGSAYO

FOTO BY MARK KEVENSSON S. RAMIREZ

reasures come in various forms and education is just one of them.

It’s the only treasure that can’t be stolen from those who possess it. Everyone is given the privilege to have education, which most people believe as

the key to a bright future. Believing this, University of Cebu (UC) came to life to shelter the priceless treasure as well as to serve as the catalyst in granting dreams as it caters an individual’s thirst for knowledge. As the persons who became part

of the institution carry their own story in the fulfillment of their dreams, UC is not an exemption of having a story that was carved in the timeline of its creation.

There is more to it than what is seen by the eyes of those who simply view it as an azure-hued establishment occupied by those who hope for a better life.

UC in the previous years

The university started as the Cebu College of Commerce (CCC) founded by Atty. Augusto W. Go on August 28, 1964. It had 239 enrollees during its opening in the

first semester, 232 in the second semester, and 69 others during summer. It offered Bachelor of Science in Commerce and Associate in Secretarial Science in its initial year.

On its eighth year as the CCC, the enrollees increased up to 4,185 and more courses were opened like Education, Liberal Arts, Criminology, and Customs. In 1972, CCC changed its name to Cebu Central Colleges.

As time passed by, the list of courses grew longer—Nursing, Midwifery, Health Aide, Naval Architecture and Marine

TWitnessing the gradual heightening of the University of Cebu’s status, Marjorie O. Borgador trailed back to its timeline to personally view the rough path treaded by the institution before it landed to its recent utopia.

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The university, as the foundation of every dream, didn’t give up. It pursued and lasted until now.“ ”

Engineering, Mechanical, Electrical, and Civil Engineering, Hotel and Restaurant Management, Information and Computer Science, Computer Engineering, and graduate school programs as well as Marine Officers’ Training Courses.

In 1983, after Atty. Go returned from his trip abroad, UC was recognized as the first in Cebu and in the entire Region VII to offer a Computer Science course.

Also, like any other universities and colleges that undergo accreditation, UC had first been accredited by the initiative of Dr. Erlinda Barcelo. Then, Philippine Association of Colleges and Universities Commission on Accreditation (PACUCOA) accreditors did preliminary visit for a Level 1 status of BSMT and AME from October 13 to 14, 1986, and in February 1988. PACUCOA then announced that it passed the assessment for the said status.

In 1991, the BSMT campus in Alumnos, Mambaling was inaugurated. The constitution of the Science and Technology Building at the South Expressway commenced as the New Cebu Coliseum is acquired. With 42 years of education, UC has been awarded a “Deregulated” status by the Commission on Higher Education

(CHEd), while it has been recognized by the PACUCOA as a learning institution with the most accredited programs.

Part of the story

Currently, the university has established four campuses: the Main campus along Sanciangko Street, the Banilad campus along Gov. Cuenco Ave., Brgy. Banilad, the UC–LM (Lapu Lapu–Mandaue), and the UC–METC (Maritime Educational Training Center) along Alumnos, Mambaling.

However, UC had gone a rough road before the campuses were established.

According to the university president, in 1964, UC had a very small population. At that time, they lacked so many things. Library books, equipments, and the other facilities were not quite adequate. “Our school at that time was the smallest and the poorest as we were surrounded by educational giants,” Go added.

Of today’s status of the university, Go furthered that one of the factors that brought glory to the university was the

board topnotchers of the institution. They invited a large number of students to enroll in the university.

Due to lesser tuition fee yet quality education, UC was coined as the “school for the masses,” for Atty. Go had said that the school guaranteed no tuition fee increase. For him, having an educational institution as a business is a very fulfilling job since it is about helping people succeed in their endeavors in life. “Our goal is to help students. In fact, the school offered a number of scholarships, so that many students can benefit,” he remarked.

True enough, plenty of educational institutions share the same story as the University of Cebu’s history, as everything undergoes tough and easy times. The point was the university, as the foundation of every dream, didn’t give up. It pursued and lasted until now, believing that rough roads help us recognize the smooth ones.


bro?WHY U NO GRAD,

hat moment when you enter your classroom during the first day of class only to find out that your professor is your

college batchmate.

This is just one of the awkward situations of some students who also once dreamt of wearing black toga after five years or less, but, unfortunately, had ended up realizing that they already spent quite a long time inside the four walls of this institution. Their seatmates may see them as the oldies in the classroom and their teachers can possibly name them dumb. But behind what our eyes can see are the different reasons why they are overstaying in the academe.

Breadwinner takes time

Gilbert, a 30 year-old first year Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSCE) student, believes that his reason for not graduating on time is his responsibility as the eldest child in the family. He started as an accountancy student in 1999 but had unfortunately stopped in 2001 because of financial problems. So he opted to find a job. He worked and supported his siblings in their studies. And, fortunately, last year, the opportunity to continue his studies knocked on his door when he decided to shift to BSCE. “Nag-think g’yud ko’g positive nga makabalik ko’g eskwela kay mao g’yud ni ako’ng goal ug ambition,” he said.

Peers always appear

It cannot be denied that age really matters sometimes in looking for a job after graduation, but what Gerald (real name withheld) worries more is his working

experience for he has none at the age of 28. “Naa g’yud pagmahay kay kasagaran ang mga trabaho karon kay naa’y age requirement. Kinahanglan pud nimo ug working experience and lisod pud kay na-pressured ko sa ako’ng family ug friends sa pagpangita ug trabaho,” he remarked. He had spent twelve years in college, transferred thrice, and shifted twice. But after the long wait, he had already accomplished his Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) course last semester. According to him, his transition from high school to college resulted to a culture shock and abuse of freedom. “Wala na’y gana isulod ug klase kay nasobraan sa kalingaw. Nadaot pud ko sa barkada ug sa love life,” Gerald quipped.

Purpose unknown

For Samuel Macasil, those quite long years when he used to skip classes because of computer games and stupid things (which caused his six and a half years of stay in college) were gone, for he was one of the top students last semester in the Business Administration department. He mentioned that for him, majority of the late graduates suffered course crisis. Macasil used to be an accountancy freshman in 2006 and shifted to Management Accounting, Management and HRDM during 2007, 2008, and 2010 respectively. He said that during those times, he didn’t know his real purpose for studying. “Sauna kay kung dili ko ganahan

sa maestra kay ako’ng i-drop ang subject. Naa gani maestra nga ka-tulo mi nag-abot sa usa ka subject,” Macasil shared his experience. But just like a typical student who wishes to have a good career someday, Macasil still worries of its effect on his Transcript of Records (TOR). Moreover, he admitted that there were times when he felt ashamed because of his late standing.

Macasil is about to graduate this semester. He admitted that he enjoyed his life and learned the lessons from it. “Education is not a race. It’s a journey,” he stressed. UC president Augusto W. Go also shared his stand on the real cause why there are students who don’t graduate on time. “The reason for that is either financial problems or nagliguy-ligoy,” he said to Lakandiwa. According to him, many of the students in UC belong to middle or lower class. That’s why the institution opts to offer numerous scholarships to its enrollees. It may be awkward to still stay sitting on your armchair while your batchmates are already starting to take their journey in the real world, but it is indeed a cruelty to back off and disregard the path you have already built. Students may have wasted time. But it isn’t a reason to stay low; instead, it’s a motivation to strive harder. Graduating on time may be one of the criteria for a student’s success, but at the end of the day, it is still their determination and courage that will make them worthy of the graduation rites.

TAs the issues of overstaying in the university continue to bully the oldies, Cathrina M. Hermoso takes note of the real stories that made them fail once to experience the early graduation.

Students may have wasted time. But it isn’t a reason to stay low;

instead it’s a motivation to strive harder.

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s the rooster crows its high-pitched morning call, employees, students, businessmen, vendors, and all other individuals from all walks of life rush out from their bed just to chase the running time.

For Crisanto (not his real name), it is but an

ordinary, busy daylight in which finding money to sustain his family’s needs concerns him most.

Really different

“Nakahinumdum jud ko ato sauna pa kay daghan jud to ang magpatahi,” he recalled.

Crisanto remembered the time when the shoemaking industry was at its flourishing state. Indeed, we have our own shoemaking capital here in the Philippines—Marikina City.

All shops ranging from small scale to bigger ones were full of clients, and from there, some shops would close down until 10 in the evening.

“Muabot g’yud to ug usa ka libo ang ako’ng kita bisa’g dili tingklase,” he said.

But those things have changed into something far-fetched from what the sapateros

are expecting. Until such time, secondhand shoes from outside the country came into the Philippines’s trade and industry.

‘Kung na’ay maguba, na’ay ayuhunon’

The skyrocketing of Taiwanese shoes, which are indeed very cheap, made the life of the people a bit expense-free, for these items are sold at a very low cost.

Aside from being affordable, most of these footwear are branded as well, which makes them last for a couple of years.

This is what urges the consumer to hesitate the ability of the shoe masters in the repairing and selling of shoes, and it is also the cause why Marikina is now facing its brink of extinction in the global market.

Such reasons triggered the shoemakers to search for other sidelines or part-time jobs like being construction workers, waiters, individual representatives, among others.

Unfortunately, the shoe

engineers who have made their work become part of their system are the ones who are having a hard time in looking for another substitute job. This resulted to difficulties in financial matters, starvation, poor health conditions, and worst, crimes, just for the sake of effortlessly obtaining immediate cash.

“Niabot pa gani ang oras na gibugno ang ako’ng asawa sa ako’ng anak kay dili man sakto ang gihatag namo para makapalit ug libro,” Crisanto stated.

In a separate interview with Lakandiwa, another sapatero based in Colon St. shared the other side of the dilemma they [sapateros] are facing. Chito (real name withheld) voiced out how a shoemaker considers the Taiwanese shoes as threats.

“Hinay lagi tinoud, pero ang Taiwanese [shoes] man g’yud kay dali maguba. Unya kung na’ay maguba, na’ay ayuhunon,” he uttered.

Although he already knew that it’s a risky choice to continue what he had started, his life is still in the middle of uncertainty where no one knows what will be the other chapter outside his shoes.

Wrap up

It’s hard to go with the flow of improbabilities as time changes. No one in the world would outrun the time or even foresee what lies in the future.

Perhaps, life can somehow be cruel or unfair, but it is just a cycle where some people rise and the others fall. Like the shoe making industry, it’s quite renowned here in our country and it is very original that we can export it around the globe, but now it is facing a nearly-coming phase out in the seat where it was once seated—the throne of patronage.

Though Crisanto and Chito already knew their fate, they still believe that somehow, shoemaking industry will soon gather its former prestige and will start anew.

Niabot pa gani ang oras na gibugno ang ako’ng asawa sa ako’ng anak kay dili man sakto ang gihatag namo para makapalit ug libro.

“” OCTOBER 2012|LAKANDIWA MAGAZINE 31

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iolent, dangerous, and terrifying.

These are how zombies used to appear in movies showing their endless desire to consume human flesh. They even come out in more creative and scary features nowadays.

Zombies have become element of thrill and excitement in movies and games, but the face-eating episode that happened in Miami last May 28, 2012, in which a naked man chewed the face of a homeless guy became very controversial on the internet and was even humored as a zombie attack.

Others may conclude the zombies as superstitious. Few may consider them as pure entertainment, while some people get paranoid about them.

Now, let’s take a little look in the University of Cebu (UC) community’s perspective about the Zombie Apocalypse.

If matinuod ang zombies kay ma-shock g’yud ko. Di ko mogawas sa kwarto ug mag-andam ko ug butang nga maka-protect sa ako’ng kaugalingon. I think there is a possibility to have zombies here in the Philippines if we won’t take care of our health. We should not abuse drugs kay dagha’ng pwede mahitabo nato.

Anabelle Azucenas (BSBA-HRDM 3)

Ang mga taw kay maapektuhan sa character nga zombie kay basin hadlok sila mupatay sa ila’ng relatives [zombie] kung mahitabo jud or sa ila’ng loved ones. Maybe sa idea nga natanum sa huna-huna sa mga taw tungod sa salida mahadlok sila. Ug basin sa duwa or salida, ang effect traumatic or nakahatag sa ilaha ug fear. About sa Miami zombie attack, well, ana sila nga bath salt daw, pero after sa investigation marijuana+lsd+coke ang iyang gi-intake, possible nga hallucinated ra siya or naa siya na-intake lain nga nakahatag ug cannibalistic effect sa iya’ng utok. Para nako, di man ni matawag nga zombie, kay ang zombie dead creature nga nabuhi. I don’t know ngano na-zombie na ila tawag ana nga cannibalism man ang issue ana’ng tawhana [Miami zombie].

Pero kung sa true life jud mahitabo na’ng zombie stuff, wa siguro’y magpatukar ug thrilling nga background music para mahadlok ang mga tao.

Francoise Andre Lipura (Animation 2)

Everything is unpredictable. Basin moingon ra ‘ta nga imposible magka-zombie, pero wa diay ‘ta kahibaw nga one day mo-appear na lang na sila. Ako kay dili ko mutuo ug supernaturals pero mutuo ko na ang mga tao magsige ug ka-high-tech. Maybe if magka-zombie man kay resulta pud sa pag-improve sa ato’ng technology like inventions of chemicals or medicines.

Jennifer Ballada (BSHRM 1)

Through the years, movies about zombies feasting on the human bodies have built fear in our minds. And now that hearsay is slowly turning them into reality, who knows? One day they might surprisingly run out of nowhere to eat our brains.


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As people feed their desire for more thrilling and entertaining movies through effective scenes, Cathrina M. Hermoso takes a look at people’s rising fright of seeing fearsome characters outside the television screen.


Is-coOL DAysArtworks By Rey D. Magsayo & Rhenel A. Serencio

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In life’s continuous pursuit for change and with evolution still in its making, it is but inevitable for humanity to seek more than what meets the eyes. Even in the strangest days and in the darkest hours of the night, humans still deem to probe on what reality has in its keeping.

With all the varied things spurred in a whirlwind of speculation humankind sees, through the fogged mirrors of doubt, the certainties that have been long kept are discovered.

TEXT BY DARYL MAYE GETUBIG


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