Calliope's Ink

The labor setting in the Philippines is gruesome, it is unkind and inhumane. Throughout the years, the diasporization and migration of Filipino professionals have been increasingly visible and the effects of the decreasing number of professionals are causing significant loss in our economy and progress.  The cruelty of the labor environment lies in the factors outside of work, factors that are rooted in the lack of proper management of the government and are perpetuating unlivable situations for Filipino workers.

Fresh graduates already face a paradoxical job market wherein entry-level job positions require an extensive amount of qualifications, demanding a lot of work experience, employers often set high qualification standards, and require a bachelor’s degree with specialized skills for minimum wage jobs. 

The government should construct new labor laws that oblige employers to reassess or adjust job requirements to reasonable requirements appropriate for an entry-level job. The government should also maximize its agencies to partner with private companies to develop internship training programs that can bridge the gap between academic learning and practical work experience. 

Aside from the working conditions our workers go through in the workplace, they often must go through the same abyss of hardships as how they did while fulfilling their duties, sometimes even worse. Regardless of distance, Filipinos usually spend more time traveling than they should. 20-minute drives or an hour of traveling becomes two-fold with the country’s traffic problems. To compensate for the traffic, workers usually spend more time preparing and traveling.

The Philippine public transportation situation has plenty of issues and it all boils down to one problem, how the transportation system is structured. The country’s transport infrastructure is catered towards private car owners. While one cannot and shouldn’t blame Filipinos for opting to resort to purchasing a private vehicle for convenience, the country’s traffic crisis reflects why Filipinos resort to that.

Along with the ineffective public transport system, the road infrastructures are built to benefit car convenience. Roads are usually filled up with individual cars with 1 to two passengers only. Compared to UVs that can cater to 15-25 passengers, buses that can seat up to 60 passengers, and the train system that can transport a thousand passengers, all share a common problem. The quantity of these vehicles in comparison to private vehicles on the road, and uncomfortably long queues. The ratio between PUVs and private vehicles consuming road space is overwhelming, which is one of the main causes of traffic.

Despite this issue, commuting is unpaid labor. Not all workplaces compensate their workers for the time and resources they spend in traveling to the workplace, and with a cruel minimum wage for necessities. What more if you’re raising a family? In this day and age, even if one has the potential to do well in their jobs, that does not mean they will achieve a high standard of living due to the unsustainably low wages that do not compare to the constantly rising prices of goods. It is also difficult to find a job with a decent salary. Many workers are avoiding taking leaves because working five days a week is not enough to meet their needs, government taxes are further pulling the salaries of Filipino workers down.

The government should stop investing in car-centric road infrastructures and prioritize investing in programs that will benefit the general public. Road widening and building more expressways are not the long-term resolution to the traffic crisis but programs that will reform and radicalize the public transportation system should be the government’s priority. In this crisis, it is common for Filipino workers to spend 2 to 3 hours ahead of their working hours. The time consumed by traveling could have been used to be more productive and invest in self or personal improvement. If our workers do not have to spend unnecessary time than what they are required to, Filipino workers would have a much easier and happier experience in the workplace.

Sharp rises in the national debt, increased government spending, inflation's bite, and other more pressing matters, yet still, the government seems to prioritize gambling away our public funds through their questionable way of allocating foreign loans. 

As much as debt can be an essential thing in funding infrastructures that will in turn create more job opportunities for Filipinos, we cannot overlook the fact that this has been misused in so many ways within our past and current administrations. This is visible with the planned P2.46-trillion borrowing program that will be used to further increase the government’s target national budget for this year 2024. To take note, this is not only for the sake of our state but also to make up for the shortfall of the government from taxes and such. This just means that due to the lack of proper checks and balances, mismanagement, and improper use of funds of the past administrations with regards to national debt and foreign loans, the public funds could just be overthrown by strong waves and be lost with billions of Filipino workers, especially those working with minimum wage can suffer at stake.

The misuse of debts not only adds to the underlying issue of an unfair tax system towards Filipino workers but also how the past administration tended to overlook the western commercial investments in our country. This can be seen in how Western countries have suspended further investment plans here as Former President Duterte focused more on courting China. Filipinos have been given a wealth of opportunities by western commercial companies like in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry wherein the workers here often enjoy better salaries and employment conditions. Now that the deal has been pulled out by some of them having internal conflicts with our past administration, most of the BPO-sector workers have been forced to replace their jobs.

To better resolve this issue, we must say that transparency and integrity should be always set on the grounds of the entities that manage most of the public funds and the taxation system. These entities should utilize the funds to save us from economic distress, and not the other way around. Doing otherwise, subsequent administrations and legal actions must be there to correct the misappropriation and mismanagement of the people behind these government entities that hold the finances of the workers. In this way, we can ensure that the loans and funds borrowed in the people’s name would be used for morally right and accurate purposes.

These issues are constituted by the centralization of these jobs in urban areas like Metro Manila, forcing many workers to migrate away from rural areas. The mismatch between job requirements and employee qualifications causes several problems. It leads to a high turnover rate because the need to search for better jobs increases hiring and training costs for companies and disrupts work.

The state of labor in the Philippines is leaving tired workers with unnecessary and avoidable difficulties along with being underpaid for the unnecessary inconvenience caused by the poor management and forethought of the government.

Written by: Calliope's Ink

The love I see in others is the love I’ve always experienced, too with different people; friends, romantic relationships, and even for stray people I give my love to by giving them food, water, and clothes. I don’t mind letting people know how I love them because I also feel the reciprocity of how their heart speaks out to me in any form. No matter how much love I receive from others, there’s this feeling in my heart that needs a lot of bandage to cover the hole. It isn’t just a missing piece like I lost a piece of a puzzle. It feels like I don’t know if the love I knew was the love I’ve always wanted; to be straight up honest with myself, I could write a book about how lost and confused I am, like how Shakespeare writes his stories. 

As the clocks started clocking a little louder, I wondered why I felt something. My mother’s love is the love   I want to experience in any language; it isn’t love but it was more of a longing. I’ve always kept a whole lot of baggage that I didn’t know was there all along. I carried all of it growing up, that’s why it felt heavier. I’m not someone who writes about how hurt it gets but for my mom, it has to get out of my chest, and no matter how much I write about it there’s a new subject to write on the paper. 

About a year ago, I was sitting in my bed, collecting my two thoughts when writing something: the artistic side and what I feel towards my mom. I thought, “If only my pen and papers could talk.” For the very first time, I considered gifting my mom something for Mother’s Day. So, why not give her something that came from my heart? I wrote a poem titled “1433” which means “I love you, Mom.” I was about to give her the poem until she found out I wanted to pursue Films. 

My friends were living in my fictional stories; a mother’s love for her daughter. Like Jesus rising from his tomb, I grew up with no hatred regardless of what kind of flower was destined to bloom for me. I have loved people, including God in a way I learned how to. It’d be like a box full of dust if I kept all the words I’d been wanting to say to my mother. I’ve been having conversations with Him for some quite time now.

Loving my mother didn’t feel like a punishment for me but I felt like a girl who got cursed because I’ve been feeling like I’m living in a place where cruelty pours, and every room has been on fire; I feel abandoned. 

Countless wars and enmities with myself, I kept praying to be raised with the thought that there is destiny. Holding back until the chaos is over, like patiently waiting for the longest month of the year to be over while I continuously scream, “I love you, Mom. In this lifetime and the next one, you’re my true love.”

Written by: Jackielou Almajose

In a sunny field where platoons of flowers and herbs grew, an admiring Daisy bathed under the light. 

This Daisy enjoyed busking in the Sun's light and presence for it gave her warmth that the soil underneath her could not shed. The Daisy drowned in love as the Sun’s luminosity lit the whole meadow with such vibrance. 

...

A few weeks came by, the urge to tell her love only grew stronger. 

Each day, her appreciation grew stronger.

The thought slowly ate Daisy. 

She was ready to unfold her buds and blossom under the Sun— for his light touches her like a warm embrace. 

She looked up and called the Sun. Her shout was loud and clear. A fully blossomed flower, conspicuous over the green field.

The Sun replied with much light and warmth— the reason for her growth. 

Weeks of mustering up the courage, she stood her ground as she gripped the soil with her roots. 

“I have loved you from afar.”

... 

“Your light shines within me even after dusk. I can only feel a heating embrace from your warmth, more so comfort.”

With much love, she blew a gentle kiss to the wind— hoping to reach above. 

She waited a couple of minutes. A few hours. Days.

She knows that the Sun will be above her as a constant. Every day, it was only the Sun above her.

... 

His soft glances faded away as he turned away, avoiding her.

Her heart sank as deep as her roots burrowed into the ground. She could not speak the words to draw the hurt out of her veins.

A gush of wind pushed over a dark cloud and shaded the Daisy from his light. 

Her first tear— masked by the first raindrops falling from above; seemed like a star in the morning blending with the bright skies.

... 

Daisy kept her ground. She held on– until the dusk made the moist field dark and freezing. 

She finally could rest her restless body. 

The warmth that day felt uncomfortable, it was a heat that could After the rain cleared the skies, her eyes laid upon the moon.

She murmurs a question for herself— 

“Does the Sun know that his light still reaches me? That even when he's not here, he's still here?”

The Daisy shed another tear as she busks-still under his light.

...  

The morning came after that night. She was wakened by his gravitating shine.

She could not bear his disregarding smile— a smile ignoring away her yesterday's love. 

She swallowed her pride as the Sun rose above her that day. 

cause waves along the field. 

Everyone but the Daisy felt warmth under his light. She tried to tolerate the heat. 

She could not look at him directly. He was getting too bright, too warm. 

The Daisy was blinded by the burning rays of her love.

He was simply getting too much for her to bear. She hides that day and the days after it. 

She could not live with the Sun holding her heart above her— ignoring her love and looking away. 

She could not live with the thought of not being enough to be looked at by the Sun— so she pulled her deeply burrowed roots out of the soil and planted herself into a vase. 

Alone. 

Under the shade of a roof. away from his light. Only to slowly wither and fade away. 

His light gave her a love that could not be given nor replicated. A love worth of dependency. 

The Sun was everything to her. 

But the Sun didn't even know she left.

Written by: Neil Carolino

Their crooked hands clasped a rust- covered wire,

barely noticed the details under the flickering fire.

Unsteadily bent it into a circle-shaped figure;

Binded the twines under the enigmatic pressure.

Might paint themselves with the brightest paints—

but they will still be that uncleaned saint.

Controlled by illusion, like a master puppeteer.

Their fogged heads couldn’t be cleared.

By the dint of being berserk, 

they began objectifying my existence.

Intensified a sickly pale stain from flesh.

Smeared lots of bloods on it to form a ceaseless mess.

Through sunken, black eyes, they stared at me with a dead gaze. 

For the meantime, they were dazed.

Not because of the utmost realization—

yet because of the baffling dissatisfaction.

The muddy skin in me was wickedly gashed,

overlap the wreaths’ base in a flash.

The rugged nails filed into sharp point

were lay around on its full extent.

Tangles of hairs falling over the eerie faces of greed

were horridly scattered all over me.

The piteous eyes of my departed soul

were painted by pure blood, fake allure.

Cautious not to horrify this place,

I have witnessed the crime that laid before me.

My existence—the witless victim.

While their minds and its state—the vicious culprit.

With all fours, I once screamed for another life.

Fighting to resurrect my present.

Six feet deep thread, whelved in dust,

darkness coveting over today. 

I once plead for justice,

in this life deprived of a future

and a present held captive 

by their stinky intents. 

Hangs on the door, all and sundry might adore.

Holds a twisted truth at its core.

Rusted wires held by cold sweats.

Twisted branches comprising of lasting tears.

They made me the lively wreath

that dies from their ruthless hands.

A lively wreath they may thought—

yet been lost from humanity ‘til its last breath.

Written by: Cathleen Jasmin Marfil

Once, when I was free as my imagination,

To write and embody myself as a voice.

Unaware a hand of censor would silence me,

Chaining me inside the chamber of darkness.

Now, a captive of a persecutor,

Restricted from my own freedom,

Consumed within a pool of concern for my people,

Asking myself, will I ever feel my wings again?

I only wish for change with no resentment,

Violence will never be the answer we want.

For the hopes of betterment in our motherland,

Just lend an ear to what we are speaking for.

I had never imagined greed would fill their soul,

Ruling with an iron fist and a rusty heart,

Caging away the freedom to express,

To hide the truth beneath a wall of lies.

Is it still possible to be heard while being hidden?

Yes, it is. You can feel the wind without seeing it.

Everything is possible for a man who is not scared,

For a man who fights for his own rights.

Even in a cage, little to a man, my words will melt these barriers.

Wounds inside me will never shatter my dream apart,

A dream to continue the passion of holding my fiery pen,

Shading down the depths of false trails.

No chain can wrap someone to fight for oppression,

A threat cannot silence our desire for change and reveal their cruel deeds.

Winds of truth will serve my people with no gilded lie,

Until the very last sheet of my paper and the ink of my pen.

Written by: Francheska Ivana Piñon

Facing a piece of paper and pen on my table, I would write a masterpiece again. It is still clear in my mind, how an admiration for words and phrases became embedded in the heart of a deep thinker, in the heart of mine. My passion for writing arises from being a book lover and this is what compelled me to start making it a hobby. Years ago, I began writing fanfictions until I churned out poems, an excerpt, an anthology, and a few other writing pieces. 

But despite my passion for it, I tend to never show this skill of mine to anyone. All of my works were kept solely for my own use. I think it was because I didn't want to hear criticism from anyone, or maybe I just didn't dare to do so. Not until a certain writing competition in our school happened. 

There was a competition at our campus that piqued my interest. It was just a year ago that our English Month's Flash Fiction Competition took place. I decided to join since my classmates encouraged me to do so. That wasn't the first competition I've ever joined, but that was the first time I've joined a writing competition.

At first, I felt doubtful that I might disappoint myself and the people who were rooting for me. But there was something incomprehensible bubbling up inside of me, and it was a desire to not only win this competition but to also showcase what I'm capable of. I psyched myself up for everything. I was excited at that time.

Just like a novel, some things could make the plot turn things upside down. The moment I was informed about the guidelines and genre that we must utilize for our work, I felt worried and anxious since I was not into the science fiction genre. I must say that anything related to science is my weakest point as a person. 

Doubts invaded my inner emotions at that time. There was a point when I thought to back out from the competition and not continue writing at all. I was trying to look for the positive side of it and be optimistic, but it wasn't easy to do so. I became the strongest warrior throughout my whole existence and my novel, but still, I've got to experience the extreme fear of being judged and wasn't able to live up to their expectations. 

But then, I tried to face those fears again. Suddenly, something came to my mind, and that was to build a story that focused on the crisis and time machines. Before the competition, I researched about time machines and its possibility to exist in this world. I found some articles and facts regarding time machines that eventually led me to build an upgraded version of this for my story. 

With this information that I've gathered my work became more relevant, informative, and timely. I can say that doing this became essential to the accomplishment of my work and its improvements as well. It helped me understand the process of this scientific discovery, that's why it became more interesting to me. That also became the way for me to take home the bacon and be proud of what I've done.

Indeed, writing is the most natural way for me to express myself. Maybe it's true that I've come across uncertainties and doubts due to the criticisms I have received from reality. Maybe the deep-seated words, the sentiments that were written and embarked on me might not be able to be comprehended by some minds, but that's what makes me 'me'. I write not to impress anyone, but rather to express my inner self. I write to speak my mind. I write to prove that the art of writing literature is still alive, the same way it enlivens my entire life. To write not just to escape the darkness, but to catch sight of the light.

Written by: Cathleen Jasmin Marfil

Located along the busy Alabang-Zapote Road in Las Piñas, SM Southmall, opened its doors in 1995. It's part of the SM Supermalls chain, which is one of the largest mall operators in the Philippines. SM Southmall currently ranks as the 7th largest SM mall in the country and it is the second mall to feature an ice-skating rink after SM Megamall. For over 29 years, it has been the go-to retail and lifestyle hub in the south. In fact, the mall was also the first SM Supermall in the southern part of Manila so there's a lot of history and stories associated with the establishment. 

Over the years, SM Southmall has undergone expansions and renovations to meet the evolving needs and preferences of shoppers. Today, it stands as a prominent shopping destination in the south of Metro Manila, offering a wide range of retail, dining, and entertainment options.

It’s Community Friendly

SM Southmall's design was inspired by the concept of a tropical paradise, with lush landscaping, water features, and open spaces giving it a resort-like ambiance. Since its opening, SM Southmall has undergone several expansions to accommodate more stores and amenities, including the addition of a spacious food court and more parking spaces. Moreover, the mall is home to major anchor tenants that offer and satisfy our needs and wants. SM Southmall features SM Supermarket, SM Department Store, and other necessary and opulent stores to make shopping convenient for its devoted customers, whether they are searching for groceries or branded stores.

In addition, the mall often arranges concerts, community events, and other activities to interact with its customers and enhance the liveliness of the neighborhood. Its prime position in Las Piñas allows it to be conveniently accessed by major thoroughfares and public transportation, catering to the needs of both local and foreign consumers and visitors. Everyone is welcome!

The Fun Side

For those who seek exciting date ideas to cherish with their friends, families, or loved ones, SM Southmall's entertainment complex features a bowling alley, arcade, and cinemas. Another alternative is SM skating, which seeks to provide everyone with an enjoyable, leisurely time on the ice and avenues for training in ice sports (ice hockey, figure skating, speed skating, and other skating). If you like something uncommon and are looking for something new to try, SM skating is another possibility. Finally, some of the most memorable experiences of 2000s youth were also cherished by those who visited Storyland at SM Southmall. Storyland l is one giant liminal space full of nostalgic few grownups who had the opportunity to experience the famous roller coaster "Silver Streak" and had some amazing, joyous moments with the amazing track. The tragic closure of SM Storyland amusement park in May 2011 was a result of renovation. Nonetheless, a few of its rides and attractions have been moved to the Mall of Asia Complex's SM By the Bay Amusement Park.

With a wide variety of stores meeting every Southern’s  lifestyle needs, it's safe to say that SM Southmall has developed into the South's leading urban lifestyle center. SM Southmall has you covered, whether you're a foodie on the market for the newest dish or a weekend warrior searching for cutting-edge, high-performance gear especially if you're the kind of smart shopper who patiently waits for amazing discounts.

At SM Southmall, one of the recommended SM malls in the South, you can satisfy all of your lifestyle needs. Whatever you're in the mood for, this massive one-stop place has everything you need, with amazing prices to top it off. It got it all for you!

 Written by: Dustin Fernandez

Intramuros is an old, but classic place with wonderful sceneries where we can get a glimpse of our history. Intramuros is a place to consider as your new favorite date spot, where you can enjoy the sights with your family and friends. Intramuros, located in the heart of Manila, is a historic walled area in the Philippines that commemorates the Spanish colonial era in the nation built by the Spanish government during the 16th century. 

Today, Intramuros serves as a popular destination for tourists and locals, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Philippines. Visitors can explore well-preserved Spanish-era buildings, churches, and museums inside Intramuros, allowing us to learn about the country's colonial heritage.

Intramuros is known for its iconic landmarks such as Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral, and San Agustin Church, all of which hold significant historical and architectural value. 

The place stands as one of the most attractive spots for both locals and foreigners who are interested in exploring different places in Manila. It’s also a great location for morning walks that will allow you to enjoy while roaming around; it will not make you yawn as it will take your breath away. 

Fort Santiago used to be a prison that was used in the Spanish colonial era, but now it serves as a park-museum. Around the area are local cuisines, including the popular food store called Walls’ Famous Friedrich Spicy Chicken that are popular among locals.

The two churches inside Intramuros are anything but ordinary. Inside the San Agustin Church, there is a museum that shows the old equipment used in the mass back then, different images of saints, paints, and discovered different medicinal plants. The old mural was located in that church during the Spanish era.

Next, the Manila Cathedral is one of the places that has experienced different disasters and many renovations before it came to be what it is today. The structure of the church is very pleasant to the eyes, the windows in the church are made out of glass, and the floor is marble. The old stone iron bars along the Pasig River can also be seen. The place will continue to charm people with its perfect place for any celebrations since plenty of historic buildings can be found there, like Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church.

Aside from different spots and Filipino delicacies that are a must-try, there is a coffee shop with an ambiance that is aesthetically pleasing, the Café Adriatico. This café is one of the best coffee shops in Intramuros that should be your go-to, and it can be found along General Luna Street. 

The said cafe  has been around for some time now, famous for its charm that comes from being located within an old structure, the ambiance is one of a kind that speaks nothing but warmth, hence making it ideal for you and your date or just somewhere quiet where you can relax over some early morning coffee before going on with your day. 

Their espresso-based beverages have an inviting smell, especially their famous Intramuros Blend. These beverages are served alongside other pastries that will likely be anyone's choice when they feel like coffee and Intramuros is a perfect match.

Intramuros is a timeless place in Manila that is forever worth remembering. In the era of modern infrastructure, this place will take you to the past with its stories etched on every stone. The Walled City of Manila truly holds a significant value as a historic place of Spanish oppression and the Filipino pursuit of liberty.

Written by: Gayle Estrada

Everything is interrelated with something we cherish and care about. Being in college is one of them. All of the decisions that I have to make, and the dreams I have to pursue because life will automatically start leveraging you to think practical. The end of high school was the beginning of what the real-world world is for me, and this means I have to spend four years of my life building connections and relationships that will truly help me with my growth. 

When I was in elementary, I started to see colors but only in my Toy Story coloring book and interesting episodes of cartoons I used to watch as a kid. I didn't grow up with role models that I could look up to. So, I ended up looking for role models that aren't even related to me. Although I am still thankful for them, but how different would it be if I wasn't alone before I started to become a fantasist?

I stepped into junior high school with friends already determined about which schools where they hoped to go to, while I was still stuck on which episode of Gilmore Girls I should rewatch. But during senior high school, I became surprisingly devoted to becoming an ace student in our class before I even knew it, I was already at the top of my class. I received a lot of certificates, my professors were fond of me, and I even got to receive "You got a bright future ahead of you,” a praise from my dad's group of friends whom I didn't even know existed. Consequently, Most of all, they've come at a time when people knew me for my achievements. I was obsessed with the idea of me as an academic achiever. I kept studying to the point that I didn’t care, even if the world got too much to bear and I had my name written on a headstone. I have held my breath for far too long and time passed as my mind slipped, applications for college had begun. 

I already pictured myself in two of my "I will continue to be someone I've always wanted to be" schools at Ateneo de Manila University or De La Salle University but did I get the chance to take an entrance exam in one of those universities? I didn't. I've gotten so busy with our school play and trying to please my mother that I didn't have the time to grab opportunities outside my shell. I thought I was doing pretty well in my previous school. I haven't noticed how long I've been in my life. I always have the image of that I kept in my pocket and forgot how it could have been for me if I put an action to it. College slammed the door on my little world where I believed that contemplating on things I wanted to do was enough.

I've watched myself cry over minor subjects that smashed me and forced hunger because I thought that I wasn’t doing enough to deserve to feel as full as my schedule. But then it hit me that studying will never be enough. I regret not joining different organizations that will enhance my leadership skills, that are aligned with my passion, and felt remorseful for not putting myself out there. I've crafted a narrative that I shouldn't be afraid to be seen trying. That's the way of slowly exploring beyond my comfort zone, and I’m starting to share something I've never done before.

Written by: Jackielou Almajose

Haikyuu is an anime series released in 2014 with five seasons until its last season in 2020.  This year, the long wait is over for the fans, The Haikyuu: The Dumpster Battle will be in cinemas nationwide. The most anticipated Garbage Dump Battle of Karasuno will be ours soon enough than we expected. Nekoma will be on May 13, 2024, for the fan screening and May 15, 2024, for the regular screening. 

For some, watching on free online sites is better than watching on the theaters, because of its convenience and you get to watch for free in your own home. But for fans like David Martin, watching in cinemas after waiting for so long he will be able to watch the movie alongside his friends who are also fans of the series. “Maganda siyang panoorin sa sinehan dahil maliban sa malinaw mo siyang mapapanood, siguradong mag-eenjoy ka din (It’s a good movie to watch on cinema because other than that you can watch it clearly, you'll definitely enjoy it, too).” He said. Waiting for so long and having the opportunity to watch it on the big screen is a blessing to the fans of the series, the battle of the two teams intensifies the waiting. 

The movie is now showing in countries like Hong Kong and Macau on April 11, Taiwan on April 12, and the Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and India in May. In the Philippines, SM Cinemas posted the early buying of the fan screening on May 13, 2024, some branches sold out immediately. The fan screening ticket includes exclusive and limited merchandise from the community of the series, the merch makes the experience more fun and exciting. The fan screening price is 1,600 pesos while the regular, director’s club, and IMAX range from 400 to 750 pesos. 

The feeling of watching your favorite anime series with people who also love it is the best feeling for an anime and sports fan. Through that, people can realize why watching Haikyuu The Dumpster Battle is better than watching it on a small screen. The included experience and fun with the people who you are related with in terms of interests. Watching on a free online site can be an inconvenience to some because of the advertisements, loss of signal, scams, or even the quality of the movie can make the watching experience boresome. The online sites give free access to some movies but contain illegal and pirated movies. These sites make it unfair to some movie owners and can cause bankruptcy 

There are many pros and cons of watching the movie on both platforms, but experience-wise, the majority of people want to experience the full package and watch it on the big screen with their families, friends, and people who relate to them. Online sites are sometimes full of annoying scams that can harm people just by clicking on something accidentally. It’s better to have the experience for an affordable price than sacrificing your important data and private information. Teasers are being shown on every social media platform. The movie has arrived.

Written by: Juan Condeza

On the esteemed grounds of Adamson University, there are many professors who shine brilliantly in their respective roles. However, in the hearts of the students from the College of Communication, there exists one professor who occupies a special place in their hearts. Jessica David, or as her students call her, “Miss Jess,” is an exceptional mentor who possesses the great ability to guide and support freshman students in their transition to college life. Not only does she care about the curriculum, but she also displays a sincere interest in the well-being of her students. She is a highly committed and admirable media practitioner and professor, and the values she imparts to her students are infectiously passing through every corner of the classroom she graces with her presence.

Early Beginnings in Media 

Jessica has been captivated by the realm of media since her early years. Born in a time before social media became popular and advanced technology, her passion for radio and television was ignited. Throughout her childhood, she would spend the time getting hooked on watching TV shows and listening to radio broadcasts, immersing herself with the diverse narratives and captivating storytelling. It was during these formative years that a seed of passion was planted in her heart, and she knew deep within that her destiny lay in pursuing a career in the field of media.

“I was already amazed at how the media works, especially you know radio and television … That inspired me, so really at an early age decided na ko (I’ve already decided) I want to work (with) them, you know the reporters ganyan yung mga nakikita ko (that's what I see on TV), mga naririnig ko sa radyo. (what I hear on the radio)” she said.

Rise in the Industry

Having reached a stage in her life where she could pursue her passion, she ventured into the broadcasting media industry at the FM radio station known as Radyo Singko. This particular platform becomes a starting point for her growth as a media practitioner. Initially starting as a programming assistant, she gradually advanced her position over time due to her exceptional writing and speaking voice. These remarkable qualities that Miss Jess has, opened doors to various opportunities, including writing newscasts, producing and co-hosting radio segments, and even delivering news breaks. Each of these experiences has supplied her with a wealth of sensible lessons and professional principles. 

“My key insights (working as a media practitioner) is one to learn how to practice critical thinking, and the other is to never stop learning, to never stop honing your creativity.” she said.

From Newsroom to Classroom

Besides working in the field of media broadcasting, Miss Jess also aspired to become a teacher. Fortunately, Adamson University has graciously opened its doors to help fulfill this aspiration. She stated that she would like to share the knowledge and values she has acquired working in media. She also found great joy in meeting new people, engaging in conversations, and forming connections, while also recognizing their individual worth telling inspirational stories. Being a part of an academic environment has allowed David to fulfill her passion for meeting new people. She now has the opportunity to engage and inspire various students each year who come from different backgrounds, have different stories, and possess different capabilities.

Hands-on Approach for Learners

David is the professor of your dreams. She is not the typical strict and uptight instructor that we usually encounter in a classroom setting. Despite her many years of being a professional, she treats her students as equals, as her colleagues. 

Transforming the classroom into a dynamic newsroom, she encourages active participation and empowers students to express their perspectives and opinions during discussions. Through her interactive and enjoyable teaching methods, she not only educates her learners but also cultivates their abilities as a producer of content in media. Viewing them as reporters, writers, and researchers, Jessica instills a sense of purpose and potential within her students, enabling them to recognize their own capabilities. 

“I would like the students to basically feel good about themselves, yun yung main goal ko (that's my main goal) in teaching … ‘pag nakikita ko na (when I see) the students feel good about themselves, feel happy about what they're doing sa mga (to those) works that I give them, that they feel confident, feeling ko mission accomplished ako. (I feel mission accomplished)” she said.

She also aims for her students to adopt a valuable trait that she fostered during her years of developing as a media practitioner “I want them to learn early on yung (the) values ng (of) professionalism, respect and of course confidence kasi kailangan natin yun (because it's what we need) if you really want to survive in media, and those are some of the few things na (that) I think kailangang (are need to be) equipped (by the) comm students.” she said.

Being a teacher is a challenging job, and Jessica has without a doubt managed to pull it off. She creates a safe and comfortable environment space for her students while also maintaining a deep appreciation for the work she has. 

“It's a big responsibility, it's a big deal, yet it's a wonderful opportunity to train future colleagues of mine and future practitioners sa (in) media.” she said.

This remarkable quality not only distinguishes her as an exceptional media practitioner and professor, but also as an individual of great character.

Written by: Justiniano Ceruma

The local drag scene in the Philippines has been experiencing unprecedented growth over the recent years, and it’s making waves all around the globe! Here’s what to know about Pinoy Drag:

Evolution

The local queer community has been a prominent force in Pre-Colonial Philippines, the gays have been a pillar of Philippine society before the Spanish even set foot on our shore. Prominent societal figures from the Pre-Colonial Philippines are Babaylans and Asogs, spiritual leaders typically posted by effeminate male tribe members. The prominence of the queer community can also be seen in Philippine Mythology with characters such as Lakapati, the goddess of fertility and harvest who is commonly described as androgynous and intersex, and Nagmalitong Yawa and Matan-ayon, famous maidens that can turn into male warriors called Binukots.

The spotlight the Pre-Colonial queer community received was tainted by the Spanish Colonization through Christian beliefs and reinforced by the Americans through formal education, over the years of colonization the queer community has been looked down upon by society and was seen as a taboo that had opened the doors for the Filipino queers to be subjected to discrimination and disrespect. After the colonization of the Spanish and Americans, the Japanese Occupation reopened the doors for the community but only as sex objects. During the Japanese Occupation, numerous women and men were deceived and enslaved and were called “comfort women/gays.”

The dark history of queer representation in Philippine society had forced the community back into the closet but in recent decades, many movements were established by queer organizations to destigmatize and detoxify the reputation of the queer community that had been tainted by our history. Such organizations are Golden Gays that made an undeniable impact on the local queer community that their existence and legacy are an inspiration.

Renaissance 

The recent growth of drag was fueled because of the rising demand for this kind of entertainment caused by the popular drag reality television show, Rupaul’s Drag Race, hosted by Rupaul, a legendary drag performer since the 80’s. The show stars a cast of diverse drag performers competing for the coveted title of Drag Superstar. The show resulted in bringing back the spotlight to the queer community internationally. The local drag performers have the chance to compete, as a local franchise of the show is now open in the Philippines. Drag Race Philippines is hosted by Paolo Ballesteros, Kaladkaren, and Jiggly Caliente, a contestant from the original franchise.

Drag performers from well-established clubs, such as O-Bar, Nectar, Krib+, and Rapture to name a few, have participated in the Drag Race Philippines. The majority of the contestants have been established performers of these drag bars; the local television show contributed to the growing audience of these bars.

Drag Race Philippines has paved the way for international opportunities for local drag performers to busk in the lights of stages from different parts of the world. Drag Race Philippines contestants have been invited to perform on tours, performing in America, Europe, Australia, and Asia. Marina Summers, the first runner-up of Drag Race Philippines Season 1, had the opportunity to be one of the contestants of another Drag Race franchise, Drag Race UK versus the World, finishing up as a runner-up in the second season.

Legacy

The growth of Pinoy Drag has had a direct effect on queer children and adults alike, drag has always been a platform to showcase the charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talents of the queer community and with the local industry rising and getting international recognition, this growth and its accumulated effects could finally pave the path for political acknowledgment of the queer community.

Filipino drag has been a form of social representation of the queer community, from being prominent spiritual leaders to being used as sex slaves by the Japanese, the Filipino queers paved the way for drag performers to have a welcoming and safe limelight from the spotlights of society.

Written by: Neil Carolino

College life is one step ahead of your dream. Academic life, social responsibilities, and personal development should be well-maintained and balanced. To adhere to all the activities, students have the tendency to forget about their health. To properly improve students' habits, here are easy tips to have a healthy lifestyle in College. 

1. Have a good 8 hours of sleep 

Having improper sleep can affect your brain. It will give you a hard time focusing on your lectures. To think clearly and have a better performance at school, a good night's sleep in your comfortable bed will improve your overall well-being, you will get along with people better and be more active. It also helps alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, as it can beautify your mood and reduce your stress. Having proper sleep at night keeps you healthy and decreases the chance of having heart disease, and severe diseases may be highly controlled.   

2. Drink Vitamin C and stay hydrated 

Vitamin C helps us grow and repair tissues in all parts of our body. It helps to produce the important protein, collagen, which makes our skin glow, and healthy cartilage. Vitamin C is required to repair tissues and maintain healthy bones and teeth. Stay hydrated keeps your body healthy, water can support your immune system, and can moisturize your skin. Vitamins are not just found in medicines, it can also be found in food, especially in some of your favorite fruits.

3. Prioritize proper hygiene

Bathing, showering, and washing your hands often help prevent infection and spreading germs. Don’t forget to brush your teeth, and remove all the bacteria that stay between your teeth. You will finally get the chance to be healthy, strong, and confidently beautiful if you practice good hygiene and proper healthy habits. It also helps the brain to balance health and well-being. 

4. Focus on your mental health 

Mental health is an essential aspect of psychological, social wellness, and emotional health. It’s important to properly handle emotions, feelings, and stress. Mental health is a crucial factor for a college student. As it is connected to your mind and body. Checking yourself up is also a form of self-love and self-care. 

5. Be physically active

It can help to maintain body physics and reduce heart disease. It's common for students to feel anxiety, depression, and mood swings as it relates to stress that they feel and whenever everything at school starts to get overwhelming. It can help to reduce stress and help you relax. It can boost your energy, and the ability to be strong physically. These can lessen the possibility risk of heart disease, anxiety, and depression

6. Avoid eating fast food

By eating home-cooked meals and not ordering out, it willl improve one's health and have more nutrients if we lessen our fast food intake because fast food is made from processed ingredients that have unhealthy fats, calories, and high sugar levels. Avoiding it can reduce severe sickness. Having a healthy diet can make your body and mind more active. It will stop you from getting acne, and improve your skin health.

Your health is the most important in every aspect of your life as it connects to your whole being. It’s difficult to balance your health, academic life, and personal life in college which will give you stress and leave you feeling tired. These are some tips to help you live a healthy life in college. Health starts with us.

Written by: Bianca Heraldo

Having a healthy social life can make college life more meaningful and memorable. But how can we achieve this kind of experience you continuously aim for? Here are a few steps that we must follow to have an effective healthy social life: 

Observe people who surround you and be aware of how they influence you

You must first observe everyone that surrounds you. People are different. They have different hobbies, personalities, and favorites. There’s a big factor in being careful with the people you meet and how they treat you. The closer, the more influence that you can get from them, you’ll see how they act around you and how they treat others including waiters. That is why it’s important to be wise and observe how things will go before you let yourself out. 

We must first know their intentions 

Before you fully let them in your life, you need to understand first their true intentions towards you. In this way, you can prevent and protect yourself from any harm, stress, and disappointment. And once their intentions are pure, you may now proceed to the next step.

Communicate well

To have a successful friendship or relationship with someone, it starts with how both of you communicate with each other. In this way, you can sense their vibe by communicating and once you sense that you have matched each other's vibe, this now could lead to getting to know each other. Once you are already getting to that stage, you may now proceed to step 5.

Always be honest about the feelings or thoughts you are sharing

If you want to gain someone's trust, you have to be honest first for them to do the same thing. 

Avoid being over dramatic, violent behavior, and angry outburst

No matter how close you are to a person, never show them things that could trigger them or harm them. This might cause them to distance themselves from you.

Be open-minded

With this kind of thinking, you were able to accept all their disagreement about your decisions in your life in a way that could help you grow as a person. 

Disagree with others respectfully

As I have mentioned, one of the steps is being open-minded, you have to understand that we have our own wrongdoings. Most of the time, you can't think properly because of things that are driving you crazy, and having a hard time making the right decisions. You can seek advice or help from your friends or those who have a strong relationship with you. Accepting criticisms with an open discussion shouldn’t be a bad thing. 

Set boundaries

Respect others' boundaries and yours. Be mindful of every word that comes out of your mouth, personal space, and privacy. Setting and respecting boundaries are one of the ways to achieve a healthy social environment.

By following these steps you can achieve a healthy social life in college where you feel supported, connected, and empowered. Building yourself up would create something you won’t regret.

Written by: Avegail Bendoy

Have you ever wondered how aspiring artists become popular, creating chart-topping hits? While it’s possible to create music independently, popular artists are most likely under a record label. Record labels release, advertise, and license their music, boosting artists' profits more than what they could achieve independently.

What are record labels?

Labels serve a vital role in the music industry by promoting artists’ talents to the public. Record labels in common serve a primary purpose, to produce master recordings. Master recordings refer to original high-quality recordings of music compositions made professionally in a studio.

Record labels license master recordings to be used in multiple forms of media, especially streaming platforms. Licensing of music refers to the ownership of music. Usually, they get a percentage for what the song or the artist earns in exchange for the benefits a label can give. It includes how the label intends to use the song, to monetize and promote it.

Labels can choose which platforms the music will be used with all the money used and earned will go through the label, including profit-generating events such as advertisement, merchandise, concerts, or gigs and concerts, and they gain a percentage of it.

In exchange for generating profit for the record label, artists get the benefits and support of the label through equipment and recording (usually professional/studio grade), exposure, and finance management. Since the label licenses and pays for the songs, they are usually in charge of managing how they get the artists across to the public, too. They promote songs, sign deals with brands and streaming platforms, and pay for radio and TV airtime. They also organize concerts to boost artist popularity.

Record labels are important because they represent popular artists and help their music reach bigger audiences. Record labels are categorized into two, major and independent record labels.

Some major labels include groups such as Universal Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment, and Warner Music Group. Artists such as IV of Spades, Paramore, Coldplay, and even most Korean pop groups, like Twice, are under the same label, Warner Music. Other major labels include Republic Records, which released “Die For You” by The Weeknd and Ariana Grande, under the same label.

Some independent record labels include Island Records and 88Rising which license artists such as Niki, Joji, and (G)I-dle. Independent record labels usually manage on their own funding, and artists might even shoulder expenses unlike major labels.

Copyright

Record labels are also the ones responsible for ensuring copyright permissions are obtained properly for the music they license. By licensing the music, record labels can legally distribute music and monetize the releases by requiring media platforms to have necessary permissions to use the artists’ music.

Disadvantages of signing an agreement with labels

The disadvantages of signing an agreement with labels may include loss of independence, which affects your creativity, liberty with releasing songs, and funding. The lack of independence may influence music career direction. Artists usually get less profit too from the songs they write due to label deductions. 

Signing an agreement means the artists will be under a contract, which could mean long-term commitments outside of their decisions, and possibly it won’t be aligned with the artists’ career goals. Licensing could also mean the profit percentage, and master recording ownership, which may vary depending on terms the parties agreed on, but most likely will be handled solely by the label.

Taylor Swift and Big Machine Label Group

A good example of these disadvantages is Taylor Swift’s issue with her old record label in 2019, Big Machine Label Group, which was sold to Scooter Braun’s company, Ithaca Holdings. Taylor Swift didn’t get the chance to buy the licensing to her music before it was even sold to Braun. Since the record label was acquired by different management, that means all master recordings will be going to the new management, along with all the rights to the music she made from the start of her career until 2019 (Taylor Swift – Lover).

Should You Consider a Label as a Starting Artist?

That depends on your goals. Labels create greater opportunities, but success isn't guaranteed, as they prioritize popular artists for profit purposes. As an aspiring artist, I would still sign an agreement with a label despite said disadvantages. As mentioned earlier, the label will manage everything from marketing, especially advertising across media platforms.

I believe that artists should sign an agreement with labels that value them as an artist, where profit wouldn’t be taken for granted, and where you have the rights to your music, to your creative freedom, and contract commitment flexibilities.

 Written by: Marco Agas

The University of Santo Tomas (UST), located along España Blvd, Sampaloc Manila, is one of the leading universities across the Philippines. Founded on April 28, 1611. UST has a rich history surrounded by street names with historical backgrounds connected to our national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. 

Dr. Jose Rizal in UST

José Protacio Rizal Mercado y Alonso Realonda, known as Dr. Jose Rizal, studied at the  University of Santo Tomas when he was only 16 years old, from April 1877-1882. He finished a program in Philosophy and Letters before shifting to a medicine program and leaving the country to continue his studies in Spain.

While at UST, Rizal wrote several poems, including “A la Juventud Filipina” (To the Filipino Youth), which was dedicated to the Filipino youth during the Spanish oppression, urging them to use their talents and potential to shape the future of our country.

Additionally, he also founded a secret society called Compañerismo, whose members are called “Companions of Jehu”.

Street names around UST historically related to Dr. Jose Rizal 

1. Laong Laan St.

Laong Laan was Dr. Jose Rizal’s pen name when he was a contributor of poems and articles in “La Solidaridad,” an organization that later became a newspaper based in Barcelona, Spain. Established on February 15, 1889, by Filipino exiles, serving as a platform for Filipino nationalists advocating for political reforms and social justice in the Philippines during the Spanish colonial rule. 

Laong in Tagalog means “a long time” while “laan” means “reserved for a purpose”. Therefore, Laong Laan conveys as “kept in reserve for a purpose for a long time”

2. Dimasalang St.

Dr. Jose Rizal also wrote under the pseudonym “Dimasalang” when he was a correspondent for the same newspaper “La Solidaridad”. He published a literary piece titled “El Amor Patrio” (Love of Country) during his time in Spain. It was later on included in “Diariong Tagalog”, a daily newspaper established in Manila.

3. Blumentritt Road

Blumentritt Road is named after Ferdinand Blumentritt who became Rizal’s closest friend. His friendship with the national hero dates back to as early as July 1886. They often exchanged letters that were used as significant sources for historians prior to Rizal’s execution on December 30, 1896.

4.España Boulevard

España Boulevard was named after the Spanish word for the country Spain, which became the colonial power that governed the Philippines for 333 years.

5. Dapitan Street

Dapitan Street was derived from the coastal town of Dapitan in Zamboanga del Norte where Dr. Jose Rizal was exiled from July 17, 1892, until July 31, 1896.

7.Piy Margal Street 

Piy Margal Street was followed by Pio del Pilar Margal who was a Filipino general in the Philippine Revolution, although not entirely connected to Rizal, he was still one of the figures who fought for the Philippine Independence

Additional streets inspired by Dr. Jose Rizal’s novels;

Here is the list of street names that were inspired by the characters of Dr. Jose Rizal’s novels, “Noli me Tangere” and “El Filibusterismo”.

1. Ma. Clara St.

2. Tiago St.

3. Isagani St.

4. Crisostomo St.

5. Ibarra St.

6. Simoun St.

7. Elias St.

Written by: Francheska Ivana Piñon

Two-time South East Asian (SEA) Games medalist Daryl John Mercado finished with a gold in the men’s - 60 kg and bagged a silver medal in the open weight division in the recently concluded 2024 Philippine Judo Federation National Championship held at the Badminton Hall Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, Malate Manila, on April 27–28, 2024. 

The University of Santo Thomas (UST) and Muntinlupa Judo Club product then proved his endurance via Ippon (a full-point victory) over Philippine Coast Guard’s Jed Mark Pumay with a De Ashi Barai (forward foot sweep) under 51 seconds remaining.

Another close match ended with Mercado using an Osoto Gari (large outer reap) to defeat Janry Pamor of UST, earning Waza-ari (a half point) and winning by pin in 10 seconds.

Mercado had earlier ousted UPD’s Emilio Buenaventura and Vhon Jaylord Mamuag, both via Ippon.

Meanwhile, Daryl Mercado's run in the open weight category ended with a silver after an upset defeat to UST’s Chino Sy via Waza-ari Awasete Ippon.

Another product of Muntinlupa Judo Club, Sian Guevarra closed out the individual events with a bronze medal in the men's -100 kg.

The tournament ended with the Muntinlupa Judo Club bagging one gold, one silver, and one bronze.

 Written by: Dustin Fernandez