2.(Instruction) Adavnce quality and relevant instruction to boost regional economes 3.(Research) Develop pionerring science and gender and culture-sensitive solutions to reduce regional vulnerabilities and boost socio-economic conditions 4.(Extension) Develop proactive extension programs for disadvantaged communities and vulnerable sectors 5.(Administration and Finance) Promote integrity-based governance and efficient management of resources 6.(Business Affairs) Balance progressive resource development while maintaining existing biophtyysical resources 7.Strengthen and expand strategice partnerships YRARETIL 7 Cultivate resilient and future-ready human capital through excellent teaching, responsive research, proactive and sustainable community engagements, strategic partnerships, and progressive leadership. MMOCVED 3 A premier university in transformative education, innovative research, inclusive extension services, sustainable development, and stewardship of culture and development. SWEN 11 TROPS 3 11 NEWS NOINIPO 6 7 LITERARY REVOC EHT TUOBA Goals ERUTAEF 3 Mission LAIROTIDE Vision EDITORIAL 3 FEATURE 3 DEVCOMM 6 OPINION 3 SPORT ABOUT THE COVER The garden at the College of Teacher Education is more than just a peaceful spot. It’s a silent witness to the countless student stories. Here, under the shade of green umbrellas, students laugh, study, share their dreams, and sometimes even shed quiet tears. It's a place where friendships grow, ideas take root, and futures begin to bloom. Every corner holds a memory of hard work, joy, struggles, and hope making this garden a true heart of the college and of the future teachers.
3 EDITORIAL BOARD 2ND SEMESTER A.Y. 2024-2025 ANGEL FAITH B. SAYSAYAP EDITOR-IN-CHIEF SHARINA MARCELLE B. CAMPILAN ASSOCIATE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF NEAVAE FAITH F. VELILIA MANAGING EDITOR FARAH TRISHA M. KIW-AN FINANCIAL EDITOR | LAY-OUT ARTIST BEA AMANDA S. BALBARONA FEATURE EDITOR DANIELA M. DALILIS NEWS EDITOR | STUDENT CONSULTANT NESLYN JOY P. ELIS SPORTS EDITOR EDRALIZ P. GABINO DEVELOPMENT COMMUNICATION EDITOR JAZEL NUJ A. WALLACE LITERARY EDITOR DANIELLE S. PAGADDUT LITERARY GRAPHIC EDITOR | SENIOR CARTOONIST ARMIE T. AMCAY DAPHNE GRAIL T. BENITO JUNETTE M. MACANES ANGELICA W. MANGAYABAS NELSON F. PADCHONGA SENIOR STAFF WRITERS MARY ANN C. DODON RIMMUEL B. FANASAN JUNIOR STAFF WRITERS CLAISA ANN B. DIO-ALAN EMELITA ESPARAS JERICHO G. AGUINAS JR. JUNIOR CARTOONIST GELISE E. SIADTO SENIOR PHOTOJOURNALIST JHEFAMAE D. HENRY AGUSTINA B. AWIDAN JUNIOR PHOTOJOURNALIST CAMILLE KATRINA C. CAYACAY CONTRIBUTOR JOHNA G. BELARDO CO-ADVISER DOLORES E. ALAWAS ADVISER DIVINA M. YANGO DEAN VOLUME 27 ISSUE 2 || JANUARY - MAY 2025 When awards fail to reflect real achievements The College has been one of the most active and consistent contributors to student development. With its strong culture of service and leadership, CTE’s various student organizations have consistently taken the lead in organizational projects, extension activities, and student engagement. Receiving consistent awards for the annual OSShayao, a program organized by the OSS to honor student organizations.This steadfast commitment has led them to receive numerous awards—not only in recent times but also throughout past years of student leadership. Undeniably, the success of CTE’s student leadership has been a proof that it is not the award that recognizes the effectiveness of one’s organization but the effort put in by the people involved. From the unending processing of activity permits and accomplishment reports, to the documentation of year-end reports, sudden change of templates, finding the right signatories, crafting of letters and consents, then finally beating the deadline. As the OSS requires timely submission, complete paper works, proper documentation, and a variety of activities including extension activities. All this has served as the student’s training ground for further endeavors. As exhausting as it may seem, work as a student and as a leader is not an easy job but it benefits one’s growth. “Leadership and service go beyond forms and folders.” Not only focusing on accomplishing required documents but extending it to serve genuinely for the students by providing tangible projects and activities that will help with students growth and their development of acquired skills. They are lived out in how students are empowered, how needs are addressed, and how communities are reached. With this we answer another important question: Should student leaders strive only for the sake of getting an award? The essence of student leadership lies in the work itself, not in certificates or titles. Many student leaders continue to serve diligently without stepping on stage. Their value is not diminished just because their names were not called. Leadership is not about one’s visibility during recognition but one’s day to day presence in the field. Another important point often overlooked is the diversity of organizations. Generally, organizations are run by elected officers, however, for publications the designation of staff is based on written outputs and oral interviews. In addition, membership and work force vary. Activities conducted by these organizations fall under different classification. Comparing them under one rigid standard may fail to recognize the unique challenges and strengths each group faces.With these points raised, it is hoped that the criteria for giving awards will be reviewed. Thus,clearer guidelines, consistent criteria, and transparent evaluation will be rolled out by the committee. This ensures that the members will appreciate the value of the organization and not simply comply with the requirements for the organization to exist. Still, recognition plays an important role: it affirms, encourages, and motivates. When deserving individuals and organizations are overlooked, and when questionable names make it to the list, the entire process is put into question. With clearer guidelines, consistent criteria, and transparent evaluation no awards will be questionable instead it will be a reflection of real leadership and hard work.
4 FEATURE Aklat ng paglakbay: Lihim na pagtuklas THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE COLLEGE OF TEACHER EDUCATION Junette M. Macanes Sa bawat tagumpay na namumukadkad, may mga kwentong nakakubli sa dilim ng katahimikan, pilit pinipigilan upang hindi maramdaman, ngunit sa pag tahimik ng kapaligiran, lumalabas ang mga agam-agam. Sa pagbuklat ng bawat pahina ng aklat, unti-unting matutuklasan ang mga guhit ng pagtitiyaga at pag-aaral ng isang atleta. Ating tunghayan ang kwento ng isa sa mga atleta na patuloy itinataas ang ating bandera sa larangan ng pagtakbo. Unang Kabanata: Pagbabagong Landas kalaban ng isang atleta dahil kapag tinamad ka na sa pag-training doon mo mapagtanto na mahirap nang magpatuloy. Pangatlo, pinansyal, kasi kapag wala ito, hindi mo mabibili ang sapatos at damit na gusto mong gamitin sa laro. Isa rin sa pinakaunang naranasan ko ang sakit kasi, bago maging atleta asthmatic ako, pero nung pumasok na ako nakayanan ko naman iyon," seryosong saad niya. Sa pagbuklat ng unang pahina, matutunghayan ang kwento ng isang lalaking nagpapakita ng kahusayan sa larangan ng pagtakbo. Siya ay tubong Mountain Province at kasalukuyang nasa ikatlong taon ng Batsilyer ng Sekondaryang Edukasyon - Medyor sa Filipino, ang dalawampu't tatlong taong gulang na si John Paul Roldan. Siya ay isa sa mga atleta na nagpakita ng kanyang galing sa mga palakasan, nag-uwi ng mga parangal at karangalan sa ating kolehiyo. Mula sa BSU Intramurals hanggang sa Cordillera Administrative Region Association of State Universities and Colleges (CARASUC) at maging sa State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (SCUAA) noong nasa unang taon palang siya ng kolehiyo, ang kanyang pangalan ay naging kilala sa kanyang piniling laro. Kamakailan lamang ng umalingawngaw sa community group chat ng mga estudyanteng nasa ikatlong taon ng kolehiyo ang mga katagang "CTE vs. Roldan", na nagpapahiwatig ng maraming kahulugan nakadepende sa mambabasa. Sa likod nito, may katotohanang hindi maitatanggi sapagkat mula noong “freshmen”pa lamang ay si Roldan na ang palaging nagwawagi at nag-uuwi ng unang pwesto sa pagtakbo tuwing CTE sportsfest. "Hindi sa pagtakbo ako nagsimula, boxing at basketbol sana pero noong highschool ako walang boxing sa paaralan namin, isa pa sa larangan ng pagtakbo malakas yung paaralan namin. Ang ginawa ko nung nagintrams kami sinubukan ko lahat ng laro at doon mas marami ang mga parangal na nakuha ko sa pagtakbo", aniya habang nakatingin sa malayo. "Naging inspirasyon ko yung McFarland USA kung saan ito ay isang movie na tungkol sa teamsports ng countryside running, hindi ito nagaga- nap sa oval kundi sa bundok at mas na-inspire pa ako sa mataba na runner kasi siya ang nagpanalo sa team niya, kahit pagod na yung mga kateam niya na malalakas, ipinagpatuloy niya pa rin.", detalyado niyang dagdag. Ang simula ng kanyang kwento ay isang patunay na ang kahusayan at katapangan ay hindi lamang nakasalalay sa natural na talento, kundi sa dedikasyon, sipag, at pagpupursigi. Ikalawang Kabanata: Paglalakbay Ang pagiging atleta ay hindi isang madaling paglalakbay, kundi isang mahabang paglalakad sa daanan ng pagsubok at pagtitiis. Ang kapaligiran ay nagiging isang malakas na hangin na nagpapabagal sa kanilang pag-usad, habang ang mga kakulangan ay nagiging mga bato na nagpapahirap sa kanilang mga paa. "Unang hamon siguro ay dedikasyon, kung wala ka nito hindi mo matutuloy ang layunin mo. Pangalawa ay katamaran na isa sa pinakamahirap na Sa mundo ng palakasan, maraming atleta ang nagpapakita ng kanilang kahusayan at bilang patunay, sila ay nakatatanggap ng karangalan hindi lamang para sa kanilang sarili kundi para rin sa paaralan at kolehiyong minamahal. "Noong first year, hindi pa ako masyadong kilala pero tumuloy ako sa BSU intrams at gold naman lahat iyong nakuha ko. Siguro ang pinakamataas na naabot ko ay CARASUC at SCUAA kasi first year palang nakapasok na ako sa SCUAA kaya tinuturing ko yun bilang isa sa mga achievements ko. Ngayong third year, nakakuha ako ng dalawang silver (4×4 men, 4×4 mixed) at dalawang bronze (200m,1500m) malakas na rin kasi ang CARASUC at siguro dahil tumatanda na tayo,” tumatawang aniya. Sa bawat tagumpay na umuusbong, may mga kwentong nakakubli sa dilim ng katahimikan. Sumasabay sa buhos ng ulan, pilit pinipigilan, ngunit hindi makakaiwas sa katotohanan. "Tuwing Intramurals, ramdam ko na mahirap pagsabay-sabayin ang maraming events dahil may time rin na pagkatapos nito naroon ako sa gilid na umiiyak, at nag iisip. At kung yung nakikita nilang malakas at parang kaya lahat ng events, sa loob ko lalo na kapag mag-isa na ako doon lumalabas lahat ng emotions ko at sa mga oras na nararamdaman ko ang pagkatalo at hindi ko nagagawa ang best ko doon parang gusto kong sumuko," aniya. Ngunit, sa kabila ng mga pagsubok na ito, siya ay patuloy na nagpapakita ng katapangan at kakayahan na harapin ang mga hamon para magtagumpay.
VOLUME 27 ISSUE 2 | JANUARY - MAY 2025 I k a t l o n g K a b a n a t a : Wa k a s - S i m u l a Sa mundo ng palakasan, maraming atleta ang naglalakbay sa mga pagkakataon na darating sa kanila. Sa bawat paglipas ng araw, ang mga pahina ng kanilang buhay ay nagbabago, nagbubukas, at nagtatapos. Ngunit, sa pagsara ng isang pahina, siyang pagbubukas ng bagong kabanata. "Gusto kong makamit ang isang layunin na hindi ko nakuha ngayon, yung sa SCUAA kaya gusto kong ipagpatuloy hanggang sa fourth year. Yun na rin ang huling karangalan ko bilang isang kinatawan para sa unibersidad at kolehiyo, yung susunod na oportunidad ay para naman sa akin." Dito sa ating kolehiyo napakarami ring atleta ang patuloy na itinataas ang ating bandila sa iba't ibang pampalakasan. Bukod kay Roldan, maraming nagpupursigi rin upang FEATURE 5 makamit ang karangalang inaasam. Tulad ng pahina ng aklat ang buhay atleta ay patuloy na nagbabago at sumasabay sa agos ng nagbabasa. Subalit, kahit ito’y patapos na, ang kanilang paglalakbay ay mas humahaba at lumalawak dahil kahusayang kanilang tinataglay. Kaya SALUDO sa mga atletang patuloy na kumakatawan para sa ating akademiya at ang pagsasakripisyo para makapag-uwi ng tagumpay at pagkakakilanlan! A glimpse beyond the ordinary Jazel Nuj Wallace At first glance, the student lounge might seem like nothing but a spacious area within the walls of the College of Teacher Education (CTE)---perhaps merely the scattered monobloc chairs, the clattering of stilettos against the floor, and the occasional forgotten snack wrappers. However, what appears like an ordinary space actually breathes life like a living entity—a breeding ground of laughter, whispered conversations, and a collection of intricate stories from students of different walks of life. A Comfortable Slumber Between an avalanche of academic workload and the extreme pursuit of deadlines, students often seek a momentary escape. The CTE student lounge offers an escapade and serves as a stress-free zone. A place where a 10-minute power nap can somehow recover a sleepless night. Upon taking a peek into the sleepyhead’s haven, expect to find students’ heads lying on backpacks, arms folded across books, and fantasies embroidered while basking under the sunlight, only to be interrupted by the sudden buzz of an alarm or the notso-gentle nudge from a friend. Social Getaways Just like a quilted fabric, the student lounge is a patchwork of unique personalities, commitments, and wholesome dilemmas. A place where procrastinators and perfectionists coexist. It is a confession booth where students would exchange complaints about a strict professor, with arms crossed and a sympathetic nod. In the corner, a group of students would be seen rehearsing for a demo presentation, their leader’s furrowed eyebrows signaling to start all over again. Meanwhile, across the room, someone stares dramatically at their laptop screen, trapped in an internal debate whether to start their project or surf through social media just to feast their eyes with “inspirations”. An Order To Go Through hustles and bustles, the student lounge is more than we could ever imagine than just a gathering space--accommodating a bunch of paperwork. The lounge also serves as a one-stop shop, most likely a marketplace for the business-minded. In between lunch breaks and study sessions, students with their strong entrepreneurial spirit seize the opportunity, offering comforting meals, and homemade snacks to satisfy one's craving. Perhaps a great deal and a life saver as well for students on a rush or anyone who might have skipped breakfast. Beyond Closed Doors Other than the enclosed space of the classroom where learnings transpire, the student lounge becomes a knowledge reservoir as it fosters diverse intellectual and creative capabilities. Students would gather around a single textbook, collaboratively calculating, synergizing, and deeply absorbing its contents. On the other hand, others would engage in debatable discussions, strongly defending their theories and hypotheses while openly obtaining new perspectives from one another. A Home Away from Home Beyond the glimpse of the ordinary, the CTE’s student lounge is not just a convenient venue for academic endeavors and momentary relaxation. But rather, it stands as a second home—a museum of faces where each student exhibits their own story. Just like clockwork, the quiet atmosphere suddenly turns into a clamor of personal getaway and an everyday sanctuary. The lounge might be unaware, but if it could, it would realize the pounds of stories it holds and the lives it carries.
The Blue Courier FEATURE THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE COLLEGE OF TEACHER EDUCATION Stories under the umbrella Mary Ann C. Dodon The newly installed green umbrellas now dotting the CTE garden, provides ample shade over the previously exposed tables for CTEians. This umbrella construction is under the Project "Shedom” of the Secondary Education Pre-service Teachers Society (SEPTS). “Shedom” is an Ibaloi word meaning "shade" and perfectly encapsulates the project's rationale to provide students with a comfortable space to relax and work in the open lounge. Planning and Construction Proper Project "Shedom" began with material assessments and initial preparations under the previous SEPTS administration. However, it was delayed due to incomplete materials, funding shortages, and insufficient manpower. "During our term, we tried to complete the necessary materials and invested Php 40,000. Also, to make it a collaborative effort, we engaged with other organizations because all students will benefit from this project," explained Nelson F. Padchonga, SEPTS Mayor. Furthermore, he shared his gratitude for the support of BSU President Kenneth Laruan, who directed the General Services Office to initiate the shade construction. With the available funds, materials such as green flat sheets and poles were then procured in February. Planning and Construction Proper Project "Shedom" began with material assessments and initial preparations under the previous SEPTS administration. However, it was delayed due to incomplete materials, funding shortages, and insufficient manpower. "During our term, we tried to complete the necessary materials and invested Php 40,000. Also, to make it a collaborative effort, we engaged with other organizations because all students will benefit from this project," explained Nelson F. Padchonga, SEPTS Mayor. Furthermore, he shared his gratitude for the support of BSU President Kenneth Laruan, who directed the General Services Office to initiate the shade construction. With the available funds, materials such as green flat sheets and poles were then procured in February. CTEians’ open library, recreation space, and sanctuary Following construction, all umbrellas were in place by the second week of April, and more CTEians immediately utilized the shaded area as an open-air workspace immersed in nature. Norma P. Kudan, a 2A student conducting research under a shaded table, commended the project, noting that the umbrellas maximized the tables’ functionality, especially during hot weather. Likewise, David Felua from the Bachelor of Elementary Education, 3B deemed it a perfect place to work. “Maganda na ditong paggawan ng IMs at pagsulatan ng lesson plan sa garden.” [It’s now good to make IMs and write lesson plans here in the garden,] he enthused. He also contrasted the previous experience of students taping materials under the tables while enduring the heat with the newfound convenience not only for working, but for playing, eating, and relaxing as well. This resonates with CTEians who play card games and mobile games during their free time under the shade. More students were notably eating in the CTE garden during lunchtime, and after a long day, CTEians took respite in the comfortable chairs beneath the umbrellas. Fruit of Collaboration As noted by the SEPTS Mayor, such projects that benefit CTEians also come from membership fees. “I hope through this, you can see that your membership fees are being spent wisely,” Mr. Padchonga highlighted. This success of Project “Shedom” underscores the strong leadership and the unwavering cooperation from the student body, highlighting how collaboration drives the college forward. Furthermore, this is a testament to CTE’s commitment to fostering a conducive learning environment for pre-service teachers and the overall welfare of everyone using the college facilities. SSALC EROFEB What haffen vella? Why you cryin’ again? BEFORE CLASS Isang episode lang tas magrereview na ako pramiss J.A. E.E. I know. This sem right? right? D.P. .P.D Coffee is life. .A.J .E.E STNEMOM ETC E.E. .E.E LC SSA FA RET D.P. S LAS C ER Fighting!to. AFT kaya ko E.E. .E.E .D.A.C .P.D Saan na kaya yung pusa ng lahat na lagi nalang buntis? Libre kita candy. C.A.D D.A.C C.A.D.
VOLUME 27 ISSUE 2 | JANUARY - MAY 2025 DEV COMM 7 The Entertainment Industry: From screens to ballots Edraliz P. Gabino The entertainment industry has long been a cultural powerhouse, shaping public sentiment through films, music, and television. Today, its influence extends into politics, where celebrities and social media personalities leverage their fame to transition into governance. The power and peril The entertainment industry includes businesses that produce and share content for leisure and cultural activities, such as movies, music, TV shows, and live events. In the Philippines, this sector relies on local talent and partnerships with global entities. For example, leading TV networks like ABS-CBN and GMA produce popular shows and films, while international music festivals (e.g., Wanderland) and K-pop concerts in Manila attract global audiences. Despite growth, challenges like limited funding and changing audience tastes remain. Celebrities often enter politics to boost their influence; boxer-turned-senator Manny Pacquiao, for instance, used his fame during the election under President Marcos Jr.’s alliance to appeal to voters. Political governance involves the structures and methods used to manage a country’s policies, resources, and public welfare. In the Philippines, power is often tied to political families and election strategies. The 2025 midterm elections highlighted this, with President Marcos Jr.’s moderate coalition (Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas) facing Vice President Sara Duterte’s populist group. Major debates focused on infrastructure projects, human rights concerns, and pork barrel schemes— where politicians redirect public funds to personal projects to secure votes. For instance, Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, a Duterte supporter, promoted harsher antidrug policies, while Marcos-backed candidate Camille Villar prioritized job creation. The exclusion of reform-oriented candidates also revealed clashes between public progress and political favoritism. Dissecting Differences A call for vigilance Article V of the Philippine Constitution declares voting as both a right and a responsibility — a way to ensure leaders answer to the people. The 2025 elections showed democracy strengthens when voters focus on real issues over empty promises. Younger voters, for example, pushed candidates to take stronger positions on climate change and human rights. At the same time, the Church’s public rejection of vote-buying helped uphold fairness in the electoral process. But maintaining honest governance doesn’t end on election day. As Archbishop Socrates Villegas urged, “Clean, moral, and ethical politics is a daily chore for both the government and the governed.” This means citizens must uphold their responsibility in fact-checking viral claims, attending town halls, and demanding transparency, not just during elections, but throughout the leaders’ terms, even after elections are over. Democracy demands more than clicks and popularity but actions. Platforms like TikTok and Facebook allow influencers and some politicians to talk straight to voters, skipping the need for big political parties or TV networks to back their campaigns. Luis Manzano’s recent gubernatorial bid in Batangas, though unsuccessful, is a clear example of this — many voters supported him for his celebrity status, not his governance ideas. His campaign leaned heavily on his celebrity persona, even sparking debates about whether his post-election social media query that is asking fans which TV shows they wanted revived, made public service look unserious. Meanwhile, Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto’s success shows the opposite example. His blend of relatability with actual reforms proves that leaders can balance charm and competence after ending the long reign of his opponent. The voters’ dilemma Marisa (not her real name), a student at Benguet State University, echoes a view common among young Filipinos: "It’s easy to get swayed by someone just because they’re popular online. But we have to ask ourselves—are they truly qualified, or are they just good at gaining likes and shares?” Her sentiment reflects the rising consciousness among the youth who formed 60% of registered voters in 2025 according to COMELEC and heavily influenced online political conversations. Although digital platforms enable civic engagement, they are also hotbeds of misinformation. Logical fallacies, such as attacking candidates’ personal lives or framing debates as extreme choices like “You’re either pro-Marcos or pro-Duterte,” often drown out policy discussions. Social media algorithms worsen this by trapping users in echo chambers that repeat divided ideas, reinforcing existing biases. A 2024 Indiana University study found that networks leaning conservative on Twitter shared more unreliable news, distorting public views. Fake accounts pretending to be grassroots movements manipulate trends, such as portra-ying former President Duterte’s ICC arrest as “political persecution” to influence opinions. To prevent this, voters must carefully assess candidates. This involves checking their past performance to see if they kept past promises, evaluating if their policies address systemic challenges like inflation or corruption, and checking their campaign funds’ origins to ensure transparency and prevent hidden interests. By focusing on these factors, voters can rise above misinformation and make choices that align their values and needs. Relying on popularity has risks. Celebrities might create viral content, but their leadership skills are often unproven.
DEV COMM The Blue Courier THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE COLLEGE OF TEACHER EDUCATION Red-tagging: The bloody war on activism and progressivism no raw ydoolb ehT :gniggat-deR msivissergorp dna msivitca Sharina Marcelle B. Campilan Back in 2023, a colleague recommended a book entitled “Some People Need Killing” written by Patricia Evangelista, a trauma journalist. The extrajudicial killings in the country took her career into a new path, documenting every death involved and stories witnessed by survivors. When I read the book, I understood that democracy in our country is slowly crumbling into dust that can be easily carried by the wind — can easily vanish, can easily be just part of the printed pages of history, can easily be dreamed instead of practiced. A license to kill supposed to help end armed conflicts, they became the sharpened knives that would In the long history of the Philippines, stab their fellow Filipino compatriots in the red-tagging has been notoriously practiced back — penetrating you in the flesh, leaving in the country with various recorded cases you bleeding and betrayed. that strengthened the idea of dangerously The red in red-tagging classifying people with different political and societal beliefs. The Supreme Court When we see the color red, it reminds us (2024) ruled and declared that red-tagging of negativity. War, blood, danger. The spill is a threat to the lives, liberty, and security of blood — warm, sticky, and the very of the Filipino people. pillar of life. situation in our country, activism became a word that was grudged, chewed, and spat on the ground, like a poison in the tongue. Red-tagging has been rampant in the country due to the insurgency of communist organizations that oppose the government and recruit young minds to join them. During the administration of Rodrigo Duterte, various methods were used in order to prevent the rising power of communist and terrorist organizations in the country. Within the duration of the Duterte administration, both Executive Order 70, also known as the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), and the AntiTerrorism Act of 2020 (Republic Act No. 11479) were used as the main weapons of the government to counter-attack the organizations that disrupts “peace.” They gave law enforcement officers and security forces a license to illegally arrest, detain, and kill nonconformists. In the country, our rights as human beings are protected by the government with laws and bills being made based on Article III of the 1987 Constitution that describes the Bill of Rights, along with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), and international treaties ratified by the country. With a legal basis, lawmakers can enact laws that would ensure that all the rights of Filipino citizens are protected and promoted. However, with red-tagging, human rights are not just violated but also disrespected and ignored. Red-tagging prevents the progress of democracy in our country — a vortex that pulls us under until we cannot call for help. When NTF-ELCAC and the AntiTerrorism Law came to be, they became the legal basis for people to discriminate, justifying their prejudice. Additionally, redtagging is used by the authorities to intimidate activists and individuals who oppose the government. The Philippines is one of the dangerous countries in Asia for environmental activists, human rights defenders, and indigenous leaders (Aznar, 2021). This is no surprise when cases of forced disappearances, extra-judicial killings, and red-tagging keep on rising — clear violations of human rights. Bodies would be found ditched in tree-dominated areas, most not at all — forever leaving their loved ones with unanswered questions and unattained justice. A dangerous force that pushes the very rights of the Filipino NTF-ELCAC is a government people to the edge, with death waiting for organization created to confront the local them at the very bottom of a cliff. communist armed conflict, mostly using a Activism is not a stranger in Philippine "whole-of-nation approach." However, with its noble goals for the nation, NTF-ELCAC history. Social activists that are widely uploads a lot of press releases and known throughout history are the likes of messages, many of which erroneously Jose Rizal and Andres Bonifacio, who accuse young activists of being affiliated aimed to reform the Philippine government with armed groups or demonize them as through their means. They were brave "terrorists" (Amnesty International, 2024). enough to fight for our freedom and did In addition, state security officials use the not cower in fear of being silenced, and Anti-Terrorism Act to hold individuals for used their voices to amplify the needs of up to 24 days without a warrant or formal their communities. They aim for a charges, denying them the right to due progressive country where oppression is no process. However, with these signed laws longer present lives are valued, and rights that are are protected. However, with the current When we see the color red, it also reminds us of one emotion: anger. A strong feeling that motivates people to stay awake, to demand changes in a country that is slowly losing its democracy. Threat to democracy For the coming years, I dream of a place where people are not afraid to speak their minds, to criticize the government officials they elected, and not be a mindless sheep that follows a leader who is secretly a wolf in sheep’s wool. I hope that the words, “Ayaw kong magsalita, baka ma-red-tag ako,” will decline once the citizens of the Philippines gather their courage to never choose the quiet. One single voice may not be heard, but a demand will be hard to ignore if we sing all together — in unison and harmony. When you inflict fear on your subjects, that is not leadership but a strong statement of your greed for power and taking advantage of the broken system of the country. Fear silences people, boxing the voices that demand change and limiting the power of democracy. Silence becomes the power of the oppressors.
DEV COMM VOLUME 27 ISSUE 2 | JANUARY - MAY 2025 9 Usapang Seks: Batang may alam, ‘di kailanman mapapariwara! id‘ ,mala yam gnataB :skeS gnapasU !arawirapapam namnaliak Bea Amanda Balbarona Tago nang tago, wala namang sikreto. Tawa nang tawa ngunit wala namang nagbibiro. Saway nang saway ngunit wala namang mali sa pag-uusap tungkol dito. Sa bansang minana ang konserbatibong pag-iisip sa mga mananakop nito, ganito palagi ang eksena kapag pinaguusapan ang sekswalidad ng isang tao. Nakalulungkot dahil lubos nitong naapektuhan ang sitwasyon ng maraming isyung panlipunan na nakakabit dito. Tunghayan ang sitwasyon ng Comprehensive Sexual Education (CSE) sa Pilipinas at implementasyon nito mahigit isang dekada ang nakalilipas mula nang ipatupad ito. anorablaB adnamA aeB Sekswalidad: Sentro ng pagkatao Ang sekswalidad, ayon sa UNESCO (2018), ay ang sentrong dimensyon ng pagiging tao na kinabibilangan ng pagkaintindi at relasyon sa ating katawan, emosyon at pagmamahal, seks, kasarian, katauhang pangkasarian, oryentasyong sekswal, sensasyong pangsekswal at reproduksiyon. Nasasaklaw nito ang biyolohikal, sosyal, sikolohikal, espirituwal, politikal, legal, relihiyoso, makasaysayan, etikal, at kultural na mga dimensyon na nagbabago habang nabubuhay ang tao. Dapat na may malalim na pagkakakilanlan ang isang tao sa kaniyang sekswalidad sapagkat ito ay kaakbay niya sa buong buhay at isang simbolo rin ng kapangyarih- hang makapagpasya para sa kapakanan ng sariling katawan (Weeks, 2011). Ang pagpapa-syang ito ay naiimpluwensyahan ng mga paniniwala, batas at alituntunin na umiiral sa isang lipunan. Halimbawa nito ang serbisyong medikal at ang pagkakaroon mismo ng Comprehensive Sexual Education ay hindi natatamasa ng lahat ng tao sa mundo dahil sa pagkakaiba ng mga batas at pananaw ukol sa mga ito. Samantala, ang CSE naman ay proseso ng pagtuturo at pag-aaral na nakaangkla sa kurikulum (gaya ng MATATAG at K-12) tungkol sa pagkatalos, emosyonal, pisikal, at sosyal na aspekto ng sekswalidad (UNESCO, 2018). Ibinalita rin ng Asia-Pacific Resource and Research Center for Women (ARROW) noong 2018 na epektibo ang CSE sa paguudlot ng pakikipagtalik, pagbaba ng kadalasan ng pagtatalik at ang bilang ng mga kapareha sa pagtatalik at pagdalas na paggamit ng condom at iba pang uri ng contraceptives. Higit sa lahat, ang CSE ay nakaangkla sa mga karapatan sa edukasyon, pang-kalusugan, sekswalidad, pagkaka-pantay-pantay, at otonomiya ng tao sa kanyang katawan. Labing-tatlong taon para sa RH Law pagsusulong ng CSE na siyang isasama sa massive youth education vs HIV, 2025). Nakaaantig ang isang taong naghihintay kurikulum sa basic education. Sa ilalim ng sa kanyang irog, ngunit ang maghintay ng CSE, ituturo ang mga isyu ng maagang 13 taon para sa sa batas na pumoprotekta pagbubuntis, ang reproductive system ng sa karapatang pangkalusugan ng babae at lalaki, mga contraceptives at maraming tao ay nakababagot. Sa isang konsepto ng pagpaplano ng pamilya, at doku-mentaryo na inilathala ng CNA mga Sexually Transmitted Diseases. Sa Insider (2023) kung saan nakapanayam ng katunayan, ang Baguio City Health CNA ang punamaw na punong may-akda Services Office (CHSO), kasama ang ng RH Law na si Edcel Lagman, aniya, Department of Health (DOH) ay naka-babahala ang mataas na fertility rate, ikinakampanya ang mga mag-aaral tungkol infant death rate, at maternal death rate sa HIV dahil sa tumaas na bilang ng kaso dito sa Pilipinas. Sa batas din ito nito sa lungsod kamakailan (Baguio eyes nakapaloob ang Matayog na ambisyon, kulelat na implementasyon PLANS 57+ +75 Implimentation -- Illustration by Jericho Aguinas Busog sa magagandang batas ang ating lehislatura ngunit balewala ang pagpapasa ng magagandang ambisyon kung hindi ito maisasabuhay. Sa pag-aaral ni Jaminal (2024), nalaman na ang kakulangan sa suplay at tulong pinansyal sa mga paaralan ang pangunahing hadlang sa implementasyon ng CSE. Ito ay lubos na nakapagtataka dahil sa lahat ng kagawaran ng gobyerno, laging ang kagawaran ng edukasyon ang may pinakamalaking badyet. Bukod pa rito, ang mga guro ay may kakulangan din sa pagsasanay sa pagtuturo. Ikatlo, mayroon ding pagkukulang sa kolaborasyon ng mga pampubliko at pribadong kagawaran sa implementasyon ng CSE. Mahalaga ang pagtutulungan sa implementasyon ng CSE para masiguro na makararating ang programa sa malaking populasyon. Ikaapat Tumagal ang prusisyon ng RH law dahil sa pagtuligsa ng maraming mga konserbatibong grupo. Ayon sa isa sa mga grupong ito, mahihikayat ang mga tao na makipagtalik kung ituturo sa mga tao ang paggamit ng contraceptive. Ito naman ay kinontra ni Erikson Bernando, miyembro ng Likhaan Center for Women’s Health dahil naniniwala siyang ang pagtuturo nito ay hindi nakahihikayat na makipagtalik, bagkus ay naghihikayat na gumawa ng responsableng pagpapasya (Grunebaum, 2023). ay ang malabong komunikasyon sa pagitan ng mga magulang at ng paaralan. Panghuli, nakaabala ang pandemya noong 2020 sa pagpapatupad nito. Sa ating paglalakbay sa mundong sagana sa impormasyon, bagamat abot daliri na ang mga ito, may mga sagabal pa ring maaalis lang kung mabibigyan-solusyon ang mga kaakibat nitong mga problema. Sa kaso ng CSE, parehong mga isyung pangistruktural, pangkaisipan, at pampinansyal ang kailangan malutas upang masigurong ang bawat bata ay may kaalaman sa usapang seks. Bilang parte ng pagkamit ng ikaapat na layunin tungo sa Likas-Kayang Pag-unlad, dapat nating pagigihan ang implementasyon ng CSE, dahil ang batang may alam, hindi kailanman mapapariwara, mapaseks man o sa ibang bagay! saniugA ohcireJ yb noitartsullI
Fleepit Digital © 2021