TheCrusaderThe official student publication of Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan

Vol. 38 No. 7

XUFD ‘11 highlights heroic leadership

Buklod Atenista focuses on SLP Various departments rev up Mindanao Week of Peace

By Dharyl Jean A. Indino

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By Caroline Joy R. Go and Princess E. Tolentino, with reports from Bianca Nathalie Y. Llamis

By Ressan Nash N. Alonto

Xavier University Festival Days (XUFD) 2011 advanced the bandwagon of heroic leadership

as it kicked off on November 29 with the theme Xavier Engage: Creating New Possibilities. The event ended on the evening of December 3, making the five-day event one of the longest XUFD celebrations in University history.

Creating New PossibilitiesAs the University underwent a myriad of

changes this academic year – most notably the appointment of the new University President, Fr. Roberto C. Yap and the infrastructure being developed in the campus - the XUFD theme reflected the new challenges, new changes and new triumphs that the Xavier community will face.

The theme was also aligned to Dr. Jose P. Rizal’s 150th birth anniversary. Fr. Yap said in a video in the XUFD’s opening program, “Dr. Jose Rizal created new possibilities for the country and he is now one of our heroes, inspiring the nation to become heroic leaders.”

This year’s festivities accentuated the four pillars of Jesuit leadership from Chris Lowney’s book “Heroic Leadership: Best Practices from a 450-Year-Old Company that Changed the World.” The four pillars are: self-awareness – the basic foundation of leadership; ingenuity – the ability to innovate and adapt to change; love – the sense of magis; and heroism – being energized through heroic ambitions of transforming the community.

“We are invited to follow Chris Lowney’s heroic leadership. Let us reflect on how we can truly become heroic leaders and create new possibilities as we serve the community,” Fr. Yap further remarks.

In the absence of the PresidentFr. Yap’s absence from the event did not

go unnoticed. The University President fell off the stairs of Xavier Hall on October 2011. The fall fractured his knee, requiring him to undergo surgery and a three-month

On October 21 to 24, student leaders from the five Ateneo universities’ student governments

converged in Xavier University for the 28th Buklod Atenista Leaders Summit Midyear Conference to discuss various issues concerning their respective academic communities and the Philippines as a whole.

Mario Tero II, Central Student Government (CSG) president, describes Buklod as a “top view of what’s happening in the country and in our own universities”.

The Xavier University community joined in the national celebration of the Mindanao Week of Peace on

November 23-30, with various XU departments hosting activities in its duration.

The week-long event was filled with activities such as National Service Training Program (NSTP) alternative classes on peace

With the theme “PAKIGLAMBIGIT: Bridging the Gap Between Service and Leadership”, Buklod Atenista came up with five major resolutions: Service Learning Program, Re-echo, Course Curricula, Ateneo Task Force and Mining in Palawan.

Implementation of SLPThis year, the participants focused on

the inclusion of Service Learning Program (SLP) in their schools, among other concerns. “We saw it [SLP] as a 21st-centrury

academic tool. We want a University that does not only focus on student formation but also community building,” Tero explains. It was XU, he adds, who pushed for SLP as the theme of the Buklod Atenista midyear conference.

The other Ateneo schools soon took up the banner. “Yun talaga ang mga kailangan sa mga schools. Everyone feels strongly about that kasi yun yung goal ng Buklod Atenista

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652 ZOOMING OUTWe take a step back from focusing on campus news and have a bird’s eye view of happenings beyond the walls of XU. After all, Cagayan de Oro, the Philippines, and the world are but one shared village.

KURIS - KURIS

EDITORIALTHE XAVIER STAGE13TH NDC

Inside www.thecrusaderpublication.com

AND IT WAS ALL YELLOW. Sky lanterns fill the night sky in the Xavier University soccer field as the XU community gathers to light the sky in part of the 5-day celebration of XUFD last November 30. (H. MAGTRAYO)

TheCrusader December 2011 | Vol. 38 No. 7

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NEWS NEWS

In a collective picture of grief and sorrow, students, friends, and batch mates pay their last respects to deceased 4th year Nursing student Colomba Caragay during a funeral Mass held at the University chapel on November 29. Caragay, 19, was ambushed in Maramag, Bukidnon at midnight of November 25.

Ethniko Filipino Handicrafts, a social business enterprise operated by a group of Business Administration seniors, won in the Mindanao division of the British Council’s I Am A Changemaker awards. It received a monetary grant of P100,000 as additional seed capital for the enterprise. Ethniko is an implementation of the group’s feasibility study.

XU College of Agriculture (XU-CA) delegates finish off as 1st runner-up in the 5th Northern Mindanao Federation of Agriculture Students Congress held at Central Mindanao University on November 23-25. With 33 delegates, XU-CA bagged several awards against seven other agriculture schools in Region X and CARAGA.

Sharing the light, a joint project of STREAMS: XU Pathways to Higher Education and TheCrusader Publication, receives a cash grant of P50,000 from Globe Telecom for winning Globe Represent! and another P50,000 from Colgate for topping the Colgate Fresh U Project.

St. John Vianney Theological Seminary (SJVTS) presented a play, “Kalis”, in the Little Theater on December 2. “Kalis” is a series of monologues reflecting the priestly vocation based on the passion and death of Fr. Agustin S. Consunji, SJ, a Jesuit missionary who served in Mindanao. Fr. Consunji died during the Japanese occupation in the Second World War.

The Xavier University women’s football team won one of two matches against Silliman University in the XU Friendly Games with the first game ending in a 5 – 2 win, and the 2nd in a 2 - 2 stalemate. The XU men’s team had a 1 - 1 draw in their first game and lost in the second, 1 -2.

The first XU Time was launched on December 2 as part of the Xavier University Festival Days 2011. XU Time, based on the popular TV show Showtime, is an open competition where the participants try to impress the crowd with a show of their talents and skills. A group of 4th year BS Accountancy students were judged winners of the contest.

Dean Cris Acabo was among ten winners of the 2011 Search for Outstanding Expat Pinoy Children. The search, organized by the Bank of the Philippine Islands, recognizes children of overseas Filipino workers who excel in fields of academics, community service, and sports despite the absence of their parents.

SBMSC to hold biz youth summit in CdeOBy Bianca Nathalie Y. Llamis

The School of Business and Management Student Council (SBMSC) is set to add a new event

to its repertoire.On December 10 at the VIP Hotel,

SBMSC will launch the first Cagayan de Oro Business Youth Summit (CBYS) with the theme “Igniting Young Kagay-anon’s Entrepreneurial Competence and Leadership Potentials: A foundation

for the youth to be in the forefront of Entrepreneurial Development and Leadership in Cagayan de Oro City and the Country.”

CBYS’ speakers will include City Mayor Vicente Emano and Misamis Oriental Governor Oscar Moreno, who has expressed interests in taking over the mayoral position in 2013. Other speakers are Elpidio Paras of Parasat Cable TV, Ma.

Rowell Cortes has officially stepped down as Agriculture Student Council (ASC) prime minister, with Deputy

Prime Minister Cyrus Seraspe taking over at the onset of the second semester.

Cortes points at the stress of being prime minister as the major factor leading to his resignation, recounting, “It’s really a lot of work. I felt that I was working alone with physical and emotional stress, murag naapektuhan tanan aspect sa ako especially my academic status kay nag-deteriorate siya.”

Cortes had thoughts of resigning even in the early stages of his term. He was initially skeptical of stepping down, thus he did not walk away immediately.

“Since katong nagsugod pajud ko, nag-thought najud ko na ‘What if mag-resign najud ko?’ Pero many people would encourage mao gaka-strengthen akong faith na magpadayun

By John Kenneth E. Ching and Dharyl Jean A. IndinoCortes resigns as ASC head; Seraspe is new PM

lang for this sem. We’ll try to see kung unsay mahitabo sa ako after ani na sem,” he says.

He also admits that he has shortcomings during his tenure, saying, “Dili lang nako mabasol sa council work kay naa japun problema sa ako. Personally, naa koy problems when it comes to working ethics.”

Yet, from his perspective, Cortes insists that he doesn’t have bad blood with other members of ASC. He even said that there is an open-door policy within the council.

“As far as I know, wala man pud mi conflicts. Dili sad ko sure kung naa jud tao na dili ganahan with the way I lead them. Pero as far as I know, we’re working smoothly kay everyone has the freedom to talk, to share what they feel. Wala man pud sila’y na-share na pangit jud.”

Despite his resignation, Cortes is ready to help ASC in its activities. “Karon na wala

nakoy position, it doesn’t mean na dili nako mag-involve kay dili man pud ingun na out-of-coverage najud ko. Dili man total detachment kay naa man pud times na matawag ko sa council kay naa koy ma-contribute sa ila.”

As for Seraspe, Cortes is impressed, and pleasantly surprised, on the former’s management of the council.

“So far, he’s doing good. He was able to delegate the tasks dayon without my presence kay nadala niya ang mga tao […] Proud kaayo ko sa iya kay he was able to deal with them nicely and build a good relationship.”

Seraspe, on the other hand, says he was shocked with the sudden turn-over, saying, “Nalain ko sa iya kay wala jud siya nagpahibalo. [He should have informed] na mag-resign siya and ako na mag-hawid sa iyang position para at least na-prepare nako akung kaugalingon ug apil ang council.”

He also said the two of them were unable to discuss the issue thoroughly. However, he affirmed that Cortes is still active in rendering his service in the council.

“He’s willing paman na magtabang sa council until now. Ginakamusta pa niya ang council and okay man na kay at least wala jud siya totally nawala,” Seraspe adds.

Now that Seraspe’s the new leader of ASC, he pointed out that the council is still experiencing problems with his subordinates. However, he assured the Aggie community that he will keep his post as the prime minister.

“One thing is for sure: dili nako biyaan ang ASC. Dili ingun na wala tungod kay wala ko’y choice but because it’s my initiative to pursue it kay the council needs it. Mas kelangan sa council ug tao na mu-motivate kaysa sa tao na mubiya sa ila.”C

The Artscies Festival concluded November 26 with a program at the Magis Student Complex roof deck,

which was also a fundraiser for selected families of flood victims in Barangay Macasandig.

United Arts and Sciences Student Council President Sean Jared Lastimoso describes the purpose was to show that there is cooperation in spite of diversity through the goal of raising money for charity.

“So I think, somehow, if they reflect on what they did during the event, makita nila ilang selves kung unsa sila karon. Nakita nila ang purpose,” Lastimoso articulates.

By Princess E.TolentinoArtscies festival ends with fundraiser

Representatives from seven of theten Arts and Sciences courses showed off their talent while wearing clothes from and by their sponsor brands and designers. Biology student Paola Dulce earned the title as Artscies Next Top Model, and also won Best in Cultural Attire, Miss Photogenic and People’s Choice.

During the Festival, a sportsfest was held and AB-Psychology garnered overall championship. The sportsfest featured traditional sports like basketball and volleyball, and childhood Filipino games like patintero and tug-of-war. C

The Xavier University – United Religious Organizations (XU-URO), with Christ’s Youth in Action (CYA)

spearheading, celebrated Christ Awareness Week, held from November 21 to 26 with the theme“Christ is everywhere”.

Christ Awareness Week started with a CYA-sponsored thanksgiving mass held at the University Chapel. It was also the start of the week-long photo exhibit.

On November 23, a fun walk was held, entitled “A Walk with Christ”. The route stretched from the Rotunda up to MacArthur Park near the Provincial Capitol Grounds. The walk was attended by an estimated 200 participants, including participants from CYA. Other groups that joined the walk are from XU-URO, Lourdes College, St. John Vianney Theological Seminary, Carmelite Missionaries, and the Philippine Army 4th Infantry Division.

Later that night, the annual “Praise Jam” was held at the former Agriculture Satellite Canteen, in cooperation with Youth for Christ (YFC), which was also part of the University’s celebration of the 2011 Mindanao Week of Peace.

Terrence Molina, provincial project head of Project Torch of the YFC-Misamis Oriental, spoke to the crowd about the importance of praising God in every way. Molina says, “Through this activity, we now know that God is real, because He is in us.”

On November 26, the week ended with “Acoustic Jam” held across the Magis Student Complex. During the program, CYA alumnus Cesar Pagapula-an spoke about the existence of God, which also followed the awarding of the week-long photo exhibit and contest, won by Francis Jane Lumacang (BSDC-2). C

XU-URO walks, jams for Christ Awareness WeekBy Ressan Nash N. Alonto

Theresa Alegrio of STEAG, Ma. Ruby Saño of SM CdeO, and Isidro Borja of the City Planning and Development Office.

The summit aims to focus on five key topics: Cagayan de Oro City itself, entrepreneurial competence, social responsibility, people development, and leadership. Two hundred delegates from the various universities in city are expected to be in attendance. C

After its successful first launching on February 2011 exhibiting Lino Brocka films, the Xavier Center

for Culture and the Arts (XCCA) launched its second Cinedukasyon on November 24-26 at the XU Little Theatre, XU Grade School, Capitol University and SM Cinema 2 respectively.

Cinedukasyon incorporates two film

XCCA launches 2nd CinedukasyonBy Saharah Iman M. Alonto

festivals: the Cinemalaya showcase and the Science Film Festival. According to Mr. Hobart Savior, XCCA director, “This time it’s fresher…it has become more innovative.”

The showcase consisted of five films, four of which are made by Mindanao filmmakers: “Crossfire” by Arnel Mardoqio, “Limbunan” by Guitterez Mangansakan II,

“Halaw” by Sheron Dayoc, and “Teorya” by Zurich Tan. Rounding out the five is “Last Supper No.3” by Veronica Velasco.

The Science Film Festival, which is provided by the Goethe Institut through the French Embassy of the Philippines, is composed of nine German and French documentaries that focus on the environment.

Savior intended Cinedukasyon as a film appreciation and education program, included in the cultural education program in the University. He said, “[It is] a very powerful medium for instruction…somehow through film we could get their attention.” C

Host Xavier University, bannered by Gian Libot and Rene Gandeza, make sa milestone in this year’s

National Debate Championship (NDC)as they finished among the top four in the 13th National Debate Championships held in Dynasty Court Hotel.

Other finalists the 13th NDC include champion University of the Philippines – Diliman, Ateneo de Manila University, and Far Eastern University.

“I feel so happy and proud of course. This is really history. This is the first time for XU and the second time for Mindanao.” says Christian Aries Paye, Prime Minister of Xavier University Parliamentary Debate Circle, on the magnitude of the achievement.

This year, XU-A and XU-B – composed of Lee Arvin Gogo and Jim Ibañez – both advanced to the semi-final round after not having a team in the final 10 last year. XU sent six teams to this year’s NDC.

“It’s historical for what it’s worth. This is a testament that XU, [particularly] the Debate Circle, is reaching farther heights,” said Libot, who also was ranked 8th in the award for best speaker with 619 points.

XU-A was ranked 10th in the team break

XU among top 4 in Debate ChampionshipsBy Leasusana C. Ty and John Kenneth E. Ching

points, scoring 16. Also, XU-A figured in the Union Cup with Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology, Father Saturnino Urios University, and University of the Philippines – Los Baños (UPLB), which UPLB eventually won. The Union Cup is a side tournament in the NDC featuring the best teams that were

non-finalists in the previous years.The NDC is one of the largest and most

prestigious British Parliamentary debate tournaments in the Philippines, where students can showcase their proficiency in expressing their views in today’s most pressing issues. The 13th NDC features 31 institutions with 97 participating teams. C

Robin Diallo, the new counselor for Public Affairs of the United States Embassy in Manila, challenges XU

alumni of various US-sponsored programs to unite and engage with other alumni nationwide during a gathering on November 29 at the XU-American Corner.

Part of Diallo’s plan as the new public affairs counselor is to unite the alumni of US-sponsored programs nationwide and for them to work together.

“Rather than having a bunch of little bitty [alumni] groups [nationwide], have one

By Ryan Louie G. Madrid

US diplomat: alum groups to work togethergroup that communicates and works together on the big challenges,” explainsDiallo.

She added, “The good thing about this is you got a lot of alumni here in XU and they are from different programs. So that is a good start. But you have to work with the [core] alumni group and work with all the [other] alumni groups in Mindanao and even throughout the Philippines.”

Diallo was also in XU to sign a memorandum of understanding between the US Embassy and XU to reaffirm their partnership for the American Corner in the

University Library.“[This is to] make

sure that we all know what our responsibilities are. It’s our way of reaffirming our commitment to the American Corner,” said Diallo.

XU-American Corner, now celebrating its 27th anniversary, is the first of a network of 14 American Corners in the country that provides “current and

factual information” on American studies. It is located at the 2nd floor of the Old University Library. C

(R. AVELLANA)

(C. SALCEDO)

(R. MADRID)

Point of Order. Gian Libot and Rene Gandeza raise a point of order during the final day of the 13th National Debate Championship.

Cultural Catwalk. ArtScies top models showcase cultural attire during the closing program of the ArtScies Festival.

Diplomat at Work. Public Affairs Counselor Robin Diallo calls XU alumni of US-sponsored programs to work together.

TheCrusader December 2011 | Vol. 38 No. 7

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NEWS NEWS

rest to heal the fracture, keeping him from active presidential duties including the XUFD celebration.

The XU community expressed their disappointment in Fr. Yap’s absence. “I didn’t know Fr. Bobby [Yap] got an accident until the opening program [of XUFD]. It was sad that Fr. Bobby’s not here to celebrate with us. Excited paman unta ko kay first time baya ni niya,” an Education student says.

Despite this, he remained active in the planning of the XU Days. According to Ivanell Subrabas, head of Student Activities and Leadership Development (SACDEV) and a member of the committee overseeing XU Days 2011, Fr. Yap approved without hesitation the suggested opening of the feast on the November 29th due to the celebration of Bonifacio Day on the 30th, making this year’s XUFD a five-day event.

“Fr. Yap is very supportive and always kept track of the preparation through emails and conference calls. Even in terms of finances, he was very generous. And we never had a problem with the proposals,” Subrabas remarks.

XUFD takes the spotlightThe need to provide a variety of activities

for the students, staff and visitors during XUFD prompted the addition of new events to the usual festival’s activity line-up.

The friendly games of football and basketball against invited schools as well as the All-Star Games, a gathering of the best basketball players from each college, were organized for sports enthusiasts.

XU Time, XU’s version of ABS-CBN’s

Show Time, was also carried out for those who wanted humor and wished to showcase their different talents.

To endorse Fr. Yap’s Green Campus agenda, the Sikad Parade 2011 and the Food Festival were conducted. Both events showed the university’s engagement in the crusade against climate change; and the promotion of Filipino delicacies and the non-utilization of plastic and styrofoam for food preparation respectively.

“Xavier Days as much as possible would like to provide the enjoyment and fun the students want. This is the time for celebration. However, we believe that it’s important to give the activities substance,” Irene Grace Guitarte, Director for Student Affairs, notes.

Even annual activities, such as the Xavier Engage Festival Night, also showed variance from the previous years, with the Festival Night showcasing production numbers by the CDO Bikers and stunts by the Mindanao Skateboarding Association.

In Kinauyokan: Xavier Engage Festival Night event, participating colleges showed off their interpretation of public issues through contemporary dances.

XUFD’s finale – Party XV – was packed although few followed the dress code of glamorous attire. Moreover, the fireworks which followed the event that concluded this year’s festival awed the public as it flaunted an array of colorful patterns.

This year’s festivity garnered mostly positive feedback from its spectators. Even social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook were filled with favorable posts.

“This year’s XU Days so far is the best. Bibo kaayo and the programs’ flows were smooth. And the fireworks [were] so cool,” an Engineering student comments.

The lowlightsControversies and criticism hung around

the event. Subrabas, contrary to his previous account of Fr. Yap’s generosity of the funding of XUFD, said that the committee had a difficulty in financing the all the activities since they were only given a limited budget. With that, they resorted to finding sponsorship from the establishments in the city.

Criticism was also directed towards the release of the sky lanterns in the Soccer Field after the I Move Concert with comments citing its harmful effect on the environment and the possible fire hazards. “It’s a nice idea but it’s not safe,” observes a Business Administration student.

The All-Star Game was not spared from the criticism. Some were against the delayed commencement of the game. “Daghan na kaayo tao sa gym dayon dugay pa kaayo nag-sugod. Ga-program-program pa sila,” remarks a Development Communication student.

Batoong Bitoon had its fair share of controversy. On December 2, a band was asked to stop their performance prematurely due to the blunt displeasure of the priests from the Loyola House with the noise coming from the played rock music, thus concluding the event to an earlier time than scheduled.

Still on the noise mishap, an International Student conveys her dissatisfaction with the

noisy surroundings while a Mass was being held in the chapel. “Ga-Mass pero saba kaayo especially sa Magis. Maka-distract jud siya.”

The Physical Plant Office, charged with the maintenance of the University’s physique, also shared its disapproval. They complained about the increased amount in and irresponsible disposal of garbage around the campus.

Another unit, the Security Office, articulated their similar complaint as visitors and students try to go overboard the temporary suspension of the dress code policy by wearing too revealing attires, and smuggling alcoholic drinks, cigarettes and sharp objects. Marker pens were also confiscated to control vandalism around the campus during the event.

It’s Xavier’s DayBehind XUFD is the often forgotten

foundation of it – the feast day of the University’s patron saint, St. Francis Xavier. “Through Xavier Days, we recount St. Francis Xavier’s contribution as a saint and give him honor. It’s also a form of thanksgiving to God for all the blessings that He had given the University,” Guitarte emphasizes.

Subrabas further articulates the point of the festivity: “XU Days is celebrated to affirm our sense of community and to strengthen the camaraderie throughout the university. We are challenged to become true to our theme – Xavier Engage – since better engagement is what we really hope to achieve.”C

Xavier Center for Culture and the Arts (XCCA) features stunts from CDO Bikers and Mindanao Skaters during the Xavier Engage Festival Night on November 29, 2011 at the Covered Courts. The program includes performances from various organizations to promote the theme of XU Festival Days 2011: “Four Pillars of Ignatian Leadership: Self-awareness, Heroism, Ingenuity and Love.”

I-Move Concert showcased four Ignatian values; self-awareness, ingenuity, love and heroism through a series of band performances, pep talks and video presentations. It is a launching activity for a movement that inculcates simple Atenean values. I Move was completed with the flying of more than one hundred sky lanterns as symbols of hope.

XU Soundtable rolls out Batong Bitoon 2k11 at the Main Lane throughout the XU Festival Days. Batong Bitoon features performers from the Soundtable and alumni as well as those based outside Cagayan de Oro. Each session is founded on the themes of self-awareness, heroism, ingenuity and love.

“Unexpected ang pagdaog,” says Sweet Belle Sarino, member of the Center for Integrated Technologies Student Council that won 2011’s Kinauyokan Neo Dance Festival. Teachers Guild emerged as first runner-up and the Council of Nursing Students second runner-up. The said event took place December 01, 2011 at the Covered Courts.

“Going green” seemed to be the theme for the costumes for the 2011 Christmas Carol contest held December 2 at the Immaculate Conception Chapel as different colleges serenaded the crowd while wearing recycled materials. College of Nursing, School of Education and College of Arts And Sciences placed first, second and third in the contest respectively.

With the theme “Musika Para Sa Pagkakaisa”, the XU band stirred a celebrative mood to bring out the Christmas spirit of the people with their lively performances. They played their well-delivered renditions of Christmas songs and all-time classics on November 30 at the Main Lane.

The main event of XUFD’s last day was Party XV, which took place at the soccer field last December 3, 2011. The event was held to celebrate the many victories and distinctions garnered by XU students and faculty. The anticipated fireworks display wowed the “party-goers”, serving as the grand finale for the closing program of Xavier University’s Festival Days 2011.

The Xavier University community paid tribute to St. Francis Xavier on his feast day as they witness this year’s wreath-laying ceremony, held at the statue of the saint on December 3. Fr. Eric Velandria, SJ, acting University chaplain, blessed the wreaths offered by the different offices and the Central Student Government (CSG).

XUFD ‘11... (from p. 1)

in Mindanao from November 21 to 25, and a photo exhibit by MindaNews.

On November 23, the celebration in the campus kicked off with an exhibit forum entitled “PeaceBook”, which is also part of the annual travelling exhibit organized by the Communication Foundation for Asia (CFA) that started last September 16, in cooperation with the Campus Ministries.

Later, Youth for Christ (YFC), in cooperation with Christ’s Youth in Action (CYA) held the annual “Peace Jam”, held at the former Agriculture Satellite Canteen, which was also part of CYA’s Christ’s Awareness Week.

On November 25, MindaNews, in cooperation with the Campus Ministries and the College of Agriculture’s Department of Development Communication (DevCom) opened a photo exhibit entitled “Mindanao: from A to Z”, held at the former Agriculture Satellite Canteen. The exhibit displayed photos

of life in Mindanao by the photojournalists of MindaNews.

In an interview with ABS-CBN Cagayan de Oro, Shiella C. Balbutin, DevCom department chairperson, spoke on the importance of the media’s contribution to peace in Mindanao. According to Balbutin, the purpose of the exhibit is “primarily to send a message that Mindanao is not just about the war, and that there has to be a different perspective that the island [Mindanao] is not totally war-stricken.”

On November 29, the Kristohanang Katilingban sa Pagpakabana Social involvement Office and the Samahang Lingkod ng Bayan (SLB) jointly organized the “e-Ugnay: Field Reporters’ Training”, held at the Campus Ministries Multi-purpose room. Barangay officials and the Philippine Air Force were in attendance. The seminar aimed to train people on how to find help in case of any calamity in every part of the Philippines.C

...Mindanao Week of Peace (from p. 1)

Everyone has something to hide.In celebration of their first anniversary as a

theatre company, The Xavier Stage presented Isa Pa: Dalawa, a twinbill production of Luna Sicat’s “Dalawa” and Steven Patrick Fernandez’s “Isa Pang Kawig”, which ran from December 5 to 10.

Turning TablesThe set is a girl’s bedroom. Jiji and Rita

have been friends for so long, they could write each other’s biographies. Jiji is bubbly, energetic and flirtatious, and sees courtship as a girl’s privilege, while Rita is somber and boyish, dislikes mushy talk, and sees being wooed as a sign of weakness.

One night when the best friends are at Jiji’s pad, they talk of their families, of boys, and of “traumatic experiences”, as Rita puts it. Jiji says hers is when her ex-boyfriend took her to a motel - that, and failing and retaking Math 01 four times. Rita’s, the audience will find, is much deeper. They talk about their secrets - how many of each other’s they know, and how many they haven’t told each other. Rita reveals her deepest, darkest secret of all: she’d been molested by her father since she was 10 years old. Shock from Jiji, shock from the audience.

Rita breaks down, and in the confusion of her anguish and Jiji trying to tame her, everything is calm, and when the lights are off as they try to sleep, she is fondled by her best friend, and her terrors are rekindled. The once-bubbly Jiji has become her tormenter, and Rita succumbs to her screaming, yelling and seduction. Jiji is played by Mary Kris Gebe, while Rita is played alternately by Pauline Marie Empeynado and Chrislyn Mae Cabusog on different days.

The other is set in a swanky hotel suite. A handgun is hidden under the pillow. Aya and Mike are supposed to be doing what couples do on their honeymoon, but they aren’t your ordinary newlyweds. Their families have come to a decision to have them married to

By Nadine Hendrikka E. Legaspi

Secrets revealed at TXS 1st anniversary specialeach other to end their long-running family feud, and to be able to share in the authority in their province.

Now, on their wedding night, while Mike is trying to consummate the marriage, Aya is cold and unwilling. The play progresses as a roller coaster of yeses and noes, much to the entertainment of the audience as Aya becomes very aggressive, it’s comical, and Mike is the one who becomes unwilling, until all the comedy comes to an abrupt halt. They quarrel about divorce after just one day of marriage, the disgrace it could bring to both their families, especially Mike’s, if that were to happen. He contradicts it fully. The newlyweds’ lives were worlds different before they met, and each other’s past secrets are revealed. Mike, to the audience’s shock, has actually been having steamy affairs with other men, as evidenced by photographs he took that were gathered by his wife.

The gun is brandished by Aya. Mike is completely at her mercy, with her being able to spread the scandal throughout the province with just one group message, and a gun pointed at his face. Mike yells that they should just divorce, forget about everything, but this time it is Aya who says no. The gun is made of plastic. She is two months pregnant, and no one will ever be able to tell that the child isn’t Mike’s. The play ends with Mike standing defeated in a corner, while his missus follows up on their dinner. Mike is played by Daryl Shane Flores, and Aya is played by Sheena Marie Pagtalunan.

The CompanyThe Xavier Stage (TXS) was founded

last year by Hobart Savior (known as Sir Bart to the people of TXS), director of the Xavier Center for Culture and the Arts. “At that time, there [were] so much resources. There [were] so many stories to tell. There were so many talents, and I thought perhaps it would be nice to establish another theater company that does not really compete, but

complements what Xavier has already,”says Sir Hobart. “I thought of how to continue my craft, because sayang naman, I’ll be at the university— and I’m a theater personality— na I could just be frozen, and there’s nothing to do with my talent, and I could share this to the thousands of students of Xavier University.”

TXS’s logo, a lotus flower embedded on masks, was designed by Nonoy Estarte, curator of Museo de Oro. A lotus flower symbolizes rebirth and beauty, among other qualities; much like a phoenix rising from the ashes.

As the company was established, its maiden production was Wilfrido Ma Guerrero’s Ulilang Tahanan, a drama about family and patriarchal tyranny in February last year, followed by Dalawang Komedya, a twin bill of Filipino comedies “New Yorker in Tondo” by Marcelino Agana, Jr. and “Wanted: A Chaperon” by Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero in June this year. This was then followed by Edward Perez’s “Barracks Ni Tenyente Fuego”, a bonggatious production about the roles and lives of homosexuals

By Joule Artemson D. Visabella

Dulaang Atenista showcased their first production for the semester with a patriotic rendering and

celebration of Jose Rizal’s 150th birth anniversary with “Pepe”, written by PETA playwright Malou Jacob.

The lead character Pepe, alternately played by Kenneth Sabijon (BS Accountancy) and Dennis Flores (AB International Studies), comes to life in the form of the Jose Rizal monument at present-day Luneta and zooms in on his

Dulaang Atenista pays Rizal homage

in the society. They can now add “Isa Pa: Dalawa” to the star-studded list of successful plays they have staged, and there are surely more to come.

One very unique feature of plays by The Xavier Stage is how the lines are changed to make them more relatable to the audience – which makes it more comical – and how fearlessly the actors take on roles that are far from their ordinary selves. With dialogue that will make you happy and sad and maybe scandalized at some points, with actors that know their stuff, and overall technicals that cap off a delightful play everytime, a ticket to their play is your peso well spent.

His message to all the aspiring thespians walking about in the halls of XU? “Unleash your talents! I’m the type of director who trusts newcomers, especially new actors, because I believe I can train them... What is important is the willingness to undergo my trainings… I would really like to harness their potentials, so I invite everyone to join us, to be onstage, and be a slave of the life we have, whether it’s real, imagined, or assumed.” C

family and the situation of the country in the whole duration of the production.

“It’s about Jose Rizal coming to life in the modern-day Philippines and tries to express his own opinions about what the country has been for how many years from his death.” says director Ryan Lao. “He talks about his life muna then all of a sudden he shifts to the present. He was trying to compare what was then and what is now.”

Lao explains that Rizal coming to

life in this generation will certainly have a lot to say in the present. “He was able to compare the Philippines what was then and what is now. The thing that struck me most about the material is that he thinks that the Philippines is still the same. It’s still a slave. It’s still a country that’s a slave to the Kastila before and now a slave to the Americans. He talks about how we hated the Kastila before and karun we praise the oppressors. These are the things that you come to realize that it’s true. We patronize

imported products, become more appreciative of products from abroad but not our own, so… for me it’s really true and it exists because the play was written around 1990.”

Ryan Lao, a BS Development Communications graduate and part-time instructor, is the artistic director of Dulaang Atenista. He has seven awards in the Cinemagis Film Festival for his short play “Pan de Sal”. C

THE SECRET IS OUT. Rita (right) tells her best friend Jiji her deepest, darkest secret in “Isa pa: Dalawa”, TXS’s first anniversary special.

(J. VELARMINO)

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EDITORIAL OPINION

PublishersStudents of Xavier University

EditorsRyan Louie G. Madrid Editor-in-ChiefBianca Nathalie Y. Llamis Associate EditorJose Alfonso P. Sendaydiego Design EditorMa. Rosetti G. Villamor Managing Editor (Interim)John Kenneth E. Ching News EditorMa. Therese D. Agcopra Campus Features EditorHannah Mae S. Salugsugan Local Features EditorMa. Rosetti G. Villamor Acting National Features EditorNadine Hendrikka E. Legaspi Global Features EditorLyle Justin A. Egay Sports EditorRico M. Magallona Layout Editor (Interim)Haiko B. Magtrayo Photography EditorAlexes June E. Baslot Freehand Editor

Finance OfficersShola Mae Rose G. Zamayla Senior Finance OfficerCaroline Joy R. Go Junior Finance Officer

ManagersPrincess E. Tolentino Human Resource Manager (Interim)Robert A. Villaluz Jr. Office Manager (Interim)Kristoffer L. Nambatac Acting Computer Systems Manager Janrick Romales Jr. Acting Computer Systems ManagerNadine Hendrikka E. Legaspi Circulations Manager (OIC)

Staff WritersRessan Nash N. Alonto (Trainee)Saharah Iman M. AlontoSam D. Garcia (On-leave)Caroline Joy R. GoDharyl Jean A. IndinoKen Loizar Monton (Trainee)Sheila Mae Roldan (Trainee)Princess E. TolentinoLeasusana C. Ty (Trainee)Jacqueline P. UyRobert A. Villaluz Jr.Joule Artemson D. Visabella

Staff ArtistsFrancis Ryan O. AvellanaRochelle D. Barros (Trainee)Jenamae G. Espineli (Trainee)Christian Louie S. Gamolo (Trainee)Rico M. MagallonaVolco Louie J. Magbanua (Trainee)Arsenio F. Meneses III (Trainee)Carmi Yvette C. SalcedoVenice Marie P. VilloAlvin Paul R. Yao (Trainee)

ModeratorAnn Catherine Ticao-Acenas

For contributions, please address your articles and/or comments to TheCrusader Publication office, StC 302 Xavier University 9000 Cagayan de Oro City

Circulation: 2, 000 copies

TheCrusader

Vol. 38 No. 7 | December 2011Layout by Rico M. Magallona and Jose Alfonso P. Sendaydiego

John Kenneth E. Ching

Ryan Louie G. Madrid

Sky’s the Langit

Versus

Quality education is what students are here for in Xavier University. The faculty, as universally mandated, is

here to deliver just that. But, with complaints floating around the incompetence and irresponsibility of some faculty, that mandate appears to be holding no water.

According to the Office of the Academic Vice President, there are a total of 588 faculty members in the college department: 303 full-time, 50 substitute and 235 part-time. Excellent education from this team of 588 is what was promised upon our enrollment, and that we rightfully deserve as our parents dole out money for tuition. Reckoning, however, did we really learn that much? Were the classroom discussions of quality? Is the education we’re getting here in XU worth the money?

Take the case of part-time teachers. While there are those who were sought for their expertise and are delivering well, there are also those who, like their title, are only partly dedicated to the education of their students. As observed by various students, some part-time teachers come to their classes late, worse, don’t show up in class. No course outline is given – a clear violation of Section 4 of the Magna Carta that requires teachers to give such at the beginning of the semester. Some even appear as if they don’t know what their lesson plan is (that is, if they really prepared one).

Let’s convince ourselves of quality education

Dedication seems to be missing as some part time teachers come unprepared for class and are resorting to unreasonable and just-to-kill-the-time type of discussions.

The aforementioned situations are not isolated cases for part-time teachers. More unforgivable than the lack of commitment of some part-time teachers is the irresponsibility of those who work full-time. Teaching is their day job and to educate haphazardly and incompetently is a huge slap in the face of students and their parents.

Those who hired the faculty members may counter that they are the best in the field. Being an expert doesn’t mean that one can teach the theories and applications effectively. Being smart is not parallel to good teaching.

In George Washington University in Washington, DC, a well decorated faculty virtually missed all of her classes, gave little work to her students and gave all of them an ‘A’ grade at the end of the semester. The students took to the streets and protested. She was kicked out and was facing court charges. Lest the faculty improve their pedagogy for a better learning experience, XU students can also kick out badly performing faculty members. Radical means are always available.

For the moment, we don’t need to stretch our call for responsible teaching that far just yet because we would like to believe that we

have faith in the administration. We would like to believe that the university and college administrations, both of whom are tasked to keep the quality of education in check, are doing what they are supposed to be doing.

University President Fr. Roberto Yap said in his investiture that he is bent on faculty formation. Zeroing in on faculty selection and making sure they are fit for the job should be the first step of his game plan. Faculty evaluators in each college also need to look closely at the evaluation sheets they make students answer if they are to make sense. With the continued emergence of incompetent teachers, it appears that student evaluations don’t matter and they are just symbolic materials in XU’s attempt to “evaluate” the faculty.

It can never be stressed better: Teachers – full-time, part-time or substitute – need to reassess themselves. Responsible and competent teaching is more than necessary in the delivery of quality education. Shame on faculty members who slack off and don’t put their students’ best interests at heart.

But, then again, we will convince ourselves to believe in the academic plans, if any, of the administration. We will believe the administration is bent on improving our education and giving justice to our money’s worth.

We will believe, but not for long. C

An oft-repeated phrase, a cliché even, was coined after a slew of developments turned Cagayan de Oro

into a city it is today.Cagayan de Oro: a city in blossom, in

bloom, and in boom.You can see it everywhere: from the new

buildings at City Hall; to road re-pavements at Divisoria; and to malls and hotels sprouting like mushrooms. In a few years, we will have an international airport an hour away from downtown.

We, as residents of the city, are of course excited at the prospect of seeing our beloved and/or adopted hometown growing into a metropolis that could be very well be mentioned in the same breath as Cebu and Manila.

Who wouldn’t want that?Yet, for all the development Cagayan de

Oro is experiencing and celebrating – bragging perhaps – there are things that appear to be taken for granted.

Case in point: on rainy days, Macanhan flyover seemed like a waterslide in a theme

park, without the screams of thrilled riders and the anxiety/excitement of getting soaked wet (unless you’re riding a motorela). The flooding at the lower terminus of the flyover got a lot of negative reactions from passersby to the point that it spilled over – pun intended – to the social networks. Clearly, this is not what we expect as we dream of better traffic flow and safer travel.

Then again, the flyover is not really finished (as of press time). I’m pretty sure that the contractor will study and remedy this in time for full-scale operations.

Other than this, even though we have sparkling new traffic lights and better paved roads, we complain of traffic caused by jeepney drivers who seem to make their own traffic rules. We complain about how some parts of the city can be flooded easily or how our drainage system doesn’t hold all the rainwater to keep them from overflowing. We complain about the garbage on the streets being just plain unsightly and smelly, despite having garbage trucks on their regular gathering rounds and trash bins visible nearby.

A lack of monitoring, perhaps? Imbalanced spending? Too much concrete? Uneven development? Poor hindsight? Whatever the problem is, this needs to be addressed before it gets too late. It’s not really a sure sign of failure, but it is alarming, nonetheless.

We wonder then on how we are going to maintain the fast pace of development without sacrificing comfort and convenience. Ideally, we want a flawless and spotless development. The city government did – and spent – much (and they delivered), but we are still left wanting. As observers and recipients of the change, we can see that there is still something that puts a damper onto the improvements we have.

For the meantime, let us give our administrators a break while at the same time be keen on observing any potential missteps they make. Let’s take solace of the fact that these improvements are done with good intention. So, we shall wait for speedy action while keeping an open eye.

Chalk it up to growing pains.C

Growing pains

Take that, vain politicians!Let’s play a game.Walk around your town. Look at all

the signages of on-going government constructions (hint: school and road constructions). Look at government vehicles and equipments (hint: ambulances, multicabs, fire trucks, bulldozers, etc.). Look at tarpaulins saying “Merry Christmas!” or “Happy fiesta!”

Now, count how many of these are plastered with emblazoned names of politicians, the layout of which is sometimes bigger than the name of the project itself. How many of these are brandished with grinning faces of politicians with matching rock star poses?

Innumerable. Awfully many that you’ll get sick seeing them.

“This project is brought to you by [insert politicians name here].”

Seriously? You, certain politician, made it happen? Or was it the taxpayers’ money that actually made the project possible? How shameless and convenient of you to claim credit for projects funded by taxpayers and then get free publicity for your bid on the next election season.

Classic. Classic example of traditional politics and a 10/10 exhibition of epal-ness (derogatory slang for attention-grabbers and narcissists a.k.a mapapel).

But here’s a run for your money, trapos: an “Anti-epal” bill is here to shake up the system.

Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago filed Senate Bill No. 1976 titled “An Act Prohibiting Public Officers from Claiming Credit through Signage Announcing a Public Works Project.” It stipulates that public officials are barred from appending

their names and photos to signages of public works projects which were either funded or facilitated through their office. Only the logo and name of the government agency handling the project are allowed in the signage. Offenders will be jailed between six months and one year.

Sen. Santiago explained that putting names and photos of politicians in public works is “unnecessary and highly unethical” and that it “promotes a culture of political patronage and corruption.”

I couldn’t agree more. Emblazoning government services with names and photos of politicians is nothing more of a self-serving gimmick to solicit fame and to perpetuate political and social power at the expense of public funds.

As of press time, the Senate is backing Santiago’s bill and has agreed to expand the measure to include prohibition in donated transport vehicles (e.g. police cars, ambulances, fire trucks). However, senators are still arguing whether penalization for offenders is necessary. Senator Antonio Trillanes said that this practice will just go away without penalization.

I say it won’t. Without penalty, the offenders will only be emboldened to continue their self-serving promotional gimmicks. Instead of arguing whether or not to keep the penalty, the Senate should consider adding a provision on empowering the local police force if they are to implement the bill and go against their local politicians. The bill should also include the banning of naming buildings (e.g. Ynares Center) and programs (e.g. Ginintuang Msaganang Ani) funded by taxpayers after the incumbent public official.

If politicians are to continue their epal-ness, then we might as well expect janitors to plaster a poster at every comfort room they clean, saying, “This place was cleaned through the effort of (insert janitor’s name here).” Janitors are paid to do their job, and so are politicians. But janitors don’t claim credit and put their names in the mops they’re using, and so should politicians.

Some may counter the bill by banking on the ‘need’ to inform constituents of government projects and that our leaders are doing something. But when the benefits and effects of the projects facilitated through their offices are actually seen and felt, the ‘need’ to promote the politician and his project won’t be necessary anymore.

Tip for politicians: Let the effects of your projects speak of your incumbency, not your emblazoned names and blown-up photos in signages. Else, let’s see how your vanity fares in prison once the bill becomes a law.

Of course, the bill is still being deliberated. As Santiago expected, the bill will be hard to pass. In spite of strong backing from the Senate, the bill is seen to gain resistance in the House. The House is dominated by members of political dynasties and congressmen who may be largely affected once the bill becomes a law, according to Santiago.

So, I am urging our congressmen, especially 1st district Cong. Benjo Benaldo and 2nd district Cong. Rufus Rodriguez, to support the bill and see it as a big measure to eliminate unethical and self-serving political practices. Supporting the bill will be a step forward in repairing the sorry state of our political system.C

for this conference, and possibly the next,” enthuses Catherine Therese Sison of Ateneo de Manila, Secretary-General of Buklod Atenista.

The resolution to include SLP in the thrusts of Buklod Atenista for the next three years was authored by the five member universities of Buklod. The resolution includes three phases which basically suggest initiating and developing them service learning programs, of which XU has already established in the form of Kristohanong Katilingban sa Pagpakabana, the social involvement arm of the University.

Tero expounds that part of the goal of Buklod and the CSG is to lobby that each college have its own office dedicated to SLP. “SLP is focused on your forte, which is why in every college there should be facilitators—which we call RSO [Research and Social Outreach]. For example, if you’re a business student, your SLP should be focused on business.”

Bringing home knowledgeBuklod also revised the resolution

regarding re-echo sessions in an attempt to produce better output for the benefit of the student body. These sessions will be the venue for student delegates to share their inputs and experiences from seminars attended.

“It says in the resolution that hopefully every time a student goes to—example to Aboitiz [Future Business Leaders’ Summit in Cebu] or to Ayala [Young Leaders Conference in Manila]—there will be a re-echo of their learning,” Tero says. He elaborates that the re-echo sessions will be in the form of group discussions or small conferences.

When asked to whom the re-echo will be given, “First priority would be the student leaders [of the different organizations],” he replies.

Other landmark resolutionsThe student governments of ADZU,

ADNU and XU also moved to reduce academic units for selected courses as they found it more correlated with the primary concerns of the Buklod Atenista Constitution which are academic excellence, spiritual formation, and social awareness. They believe that this could not be fully achieved if one had to compromise academic load or extracurricular activities or both. Tero reveals that the CSG plans to lobby this to the Academic Council when it convenes this December.

The universities agreed to create a task force for integrating youth involvement in the 2013 elections. The resolution stresses registration, voters’ education, and mock elections in its phases.

On the issue of mining in Palawan, the participants agreed to launch campaigns encouraging students to act on the said issue. For XU, Tero states that the signature campaign, which has reached 2000 to 5000 signatures, will be continued. Information drives will also be launched by the CSG. But more than that, Tero says the CSG would like to see the various student organizations taking up the cause. “We wanted to point out the organizations could also have their own environmental advocacies.”

To monitor the progress of the said resolutions, each student council agreed on giving monthly updates to the rest of the universities.C

Buklod Atenista... (from p. 1)

ErrataTheCrusader Publication apologizes for the following mistakes in its 2011 Intramurals issue (Vol. 38 No. 5):

1. In the “Rule of the Tribe” article, the Warriors also bagged gold in Women’s Basketball, aside from the seven other games enumerated in the “Warriors charge” subsection.2. In the men’s volleyball, we mentioned the Tigers as champions for three con-secutive years. This is incorrect. The Warriors were volleyball champions in the 2010 Intramurals.3. Kimberly Alia, the Standout for Women’s Athletics, is a Fourth Year student, not Third Year. Prince Allen Lolor, the Standout for Men’s Basketball, is a Fifth Year student, not a junior.4. We misspelled the names of Jestoferson Uy (as Jefferson Uy in the Men’s Bad-minton article), Marven Malalay (as Marien Malalay in the Women’s Taekwondo article), and Joy Ipanag (as Joy Idanay in the same article).

To rectify these, we are uploading a new PDF version of our Intramurals issue, with the corrected details. Please check TheCrusader Publication’s Facebook page for the link.

FULL CIRCLE. Student leaders from five Ateneo Schools gather for the 28th Mid-year Buklod Atenista to focus on Service Learning Program.

(BUKLOD ATENISTA)

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ZOOMINGOUT DEFINITELYXU

Tarlac - “Supreme Court orders the distribution of the 4,900 hectares of Hacienda Luicita lands to over 6,000 registered tenants of the estate owned by the relatives of Pres. Benigno Aquino,” according to Philippine Daily Inquirer.

Maguindanao - Journalists, relatives of the Ampatuan massacre and supporters around the country commemorate the first International Day to End Impunity on the 2nd anniversary of the Ampatuan massacre.

North Cotabato - “Some 130 fami-lies from a remote village in Tulu-nan, North Cotabato have fled their homes following a clash between two warring factions of the Moro Is-lamic Liberation Front (MILF),” accord-ing to GMA News.

Bukidnon and Surigao del Sur - Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivol-cs) record two earth-quakes in Mindanao: the first earthquake with a magnitude of 3.6 in Valencia City, Bukidnon and the second with a magni-tude of 3.2 in Surigao del Sur.

Lanao del Norte - Authorities retrieve all three Ko-reans abducted on Oct. 21. Choi In Soo was found abandoned last Nov. 24 while the other two were found on Nov. 26. All three Koreans were looking for mining opportunities when they were abducted by an unknown group. Soo died in a hospital in Cagayan de Oro on Dec. 2 due to his ulcer.

Iloilo - A wounded whale was found in the area. Resi-dents tried to push the whale back to sea but it kept coming back to shore.

Davao - Officials from the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and breakaway group Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Movement (BIFM) have denied a report from a rebel peace negotiator that Ameril Umbra Kato died in Davao City.

Brgy. Lumbia - An 86-meter tunnel was found near the Lumbia City Jail on Nov. 15. A makeshift hut found 170 meters from the jail concealed the starting point of the two-meter-wide tunnel. The unfinished endpoint of the tunnel would lead to the cell of high risk and high profile inmates.

CdeO and Iligan - The Mind-anao Railway Project, which aims to cut down travel time between CdeO and Iligan, will no longer be considered for budget allocations by the National Government be-cause it is “too expensive and impractical” according to the Department of Finance.

Poblacion - Bombo Radyo’s Michael Licuanan, known as “James Dacoycoy,” was shot by two men along Cap. Vicente Roa-Ebarle Sts. on Nov.r 24. Police said the shooting is work-related and possibly connected with the drugs issue the broadcaster discussed in his program.

Archdiocese of CdeO - The Arch-diocese is set to implement changes in the English Mass liturgy, next year. Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Antonio Ledesma, SJ, said the language tries to run in a more literal, faithful translation of the original words of the liturgy and not something radically new.

It’s fact. Xavier University, for all of us, has become home away from home. It has become a witness of our growth

as individuals and as person for others. It is where we experienced some of our most trying times and our happiest moments. But before you succumb to this cheese fest let’s take a look at the little things that make our stay in XU the best ever. And it’s not just about the brand spanking Atenean learning system or the advanced facilities.

A place to stayThis year we saw a lot of major changes

regarding infrastructures around campus. But despite all of that, the classrooms where we maintain our presence most of the day remain as they are—warm as ever. And it’s not even the happy kind of warm you feel during Christmas time, but the heat stroke-inducing kind of warm. The kind that’s potentially life threatening. But it’s not really that big of a problem anymore. Two years into college and you get used to it eventually, I think.

Or maybe not.The worst classrooms to be in at noon

periods are probably those in Xavier Hall. Sitting inside a class is like sitting roasting inside an oven minus the annoying flapping sound of a faulty ceiling fan. If that’s not enough to make you flare up, the building is located near Corrales street, and Corrales street at noon hosts

an automobile noise barrage. It’s nearly impossible to concentrate on anything but an escape plan. A block of Business Administration students have their classes in Xavier Hall at noon wearing corporate attire that involves long sleeves. I wouldn’t even bother trying to picture myself in their shoes (or in their long sleeves for this matter). Oh yeah, did I mention the classrooms in XH had air-conditioning units that are never allowed on during classes? Yes, hello.

The good thing about XH classrooms, though, is that they’ve got far lesser vandals on their tables compared to any other classroom. Maybe all that heat drains up creative juices. If you wish to have your vandal fix, you might as well visit the STC elevator, home to some of the most nonsensical random doodles and scribbles. The school has tried again and again to cover sometimes troubling rants by repainting the elevators, but for some reasons people think the best way to keep the once newly-painted elevator clean is by writing, in classic black ink, the words “Bawal magvandal dinhi.” Way to go, Captain Obvious.

A place to eatCome lunch time, the school canteen is

still the easiest and best place to grab a bite. The new location in the Magis Complex plus the addition of cafeteria tables (which, by the way, give people the itch to stand on top

of them and do an impromptu dance number like one

of them High School Musical movies)

make the canteen a happier and less

fly-infested place to be in.

But that’s

not the point.The point is XU is

a diverse food hub. But seriously where else can you find mango float shakes and crispy deep-fried flour—I mean pork chop—in one area? And with Business Administration students having their FS every now and then, the menu grows. But despite the new stuff, there’s no denying how people always tend to order “the regular”.

According to one canteen personnel, the bestsellers are the pork and soy sauce ensemble, humba, and the beef and soy sauce ensemble beef tapa. When asked about chopsuey, the all-vegetable dish actually does well in the market. The least ordered dish, however, is the canton, sotanghon, and vegetable combination known as bam-i.

And if you didn’t already know, one of the best places to buy beverages from is found on the 4th floor of the SC building. Looking at it from the outside, the first room near SC4 looks like any other faculty office except that they sell chocolate milk and calamansi juice in all its ice cold glory. Not only that but they also offer cookies and chips of different varieties and all are served crisp and fresh.

A place to do businessWhen nature calls, the nearest of all

comfort rooms would suffice—nevermind the lack of mirrors or the lunch remains in cubicle 1 that didn’t go down the drain. But if one did have the choice to choose or the perseverance to walk a few extra yards, the boys’ and girls’ comfort rooms in the library building would be everyone’s refuge. Although not as roomy as the ones in Aggies or STC, the lib CRs make up for it by keeping itself cleaner than all the others. The mirror is also a plus, and the fact that they are strategically located near the main gates gives a clear escape route especially when the worst case scenario comes about.

Just as there are CRs we love, there are also those we never think about when doing

number two. For the guys their least favorite are the ones on the Social Science Center’s 2nd and 3rd floor. Guys’ CR preference depends on the facilities that make it an actual CR. Girls have it different (or maybe guys are just lucky), and their reason for ignoring this next CR is not about the dysfunctional faucets or always out-of-order toilets but more so about the story behind the unmanned toilet flushing, the faceless footsteps, and the regular visitors. Perhaps the least occupied bathroom is the girls’ CR near the clinic in Campion Hall. Compared to others the room seems rather dim, with a bolted cubicle at the far end and a creepy-looking mirror that looks older than my mother. There are different stories regarding the suspicious-looking cubicle, the most famous being that of a girl who committed suicide there. Her ghost is said to haunt the area and tap on students who go there alone. One student says while she was tidying up in front of the mirror she saw a girl pass behind her and walk straight to the cubicle. How the girl managed to disappear into the cubicle without the slightest sound of a door opening baffles the witness to this day. Stories of apparitions also linger around the second floor bathroom of the SC building. Rumors say that a student was dropping a bomb when a figure hovered above her and touched her forehead.

***To put it simply, we’ve seen a lot of XU

and XU has seen a lot of us. We grow with it, it grows with us. All these trivialities may mean so little, but it all makes learning a truly XU experience nevertheless. And as the famous tagline goes, “taga XU ka kung…” you can relate. And I’m pretty sure you do.C

XU on the flipsideBy Maria Therese D.Agcopra

Manila - The US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Philippine police arrest four hackers responsible for AT&T, the No. 2 US mobile provider’s $2 million loss ac-cording to Philippines’ Criminal Investigation and Detec-tion Group (CIDG).

Florida, USA - NASA launches a rocket containing the rover "Curiosity" headed for Mars to search for signs of life on the planet. Analysts are criticizing NASA's move for exploration isn't the best use of the Americans' money, but a possible answer to the quintessential question: "Are we alone in the universe?" may change our lives forever

Cairo, Egypt - Many men and women queued up to vote during the very �rst parliamentary elections since the fall of former Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak. Many in their 40s to their 60s are voting for the �rst time because they've abstained in the past, owing to the well-known fact that Egyptian elections were marred with fraud and violence, the votes never even being counted.

Yeonpyeong, South Korea - North Korea threatens "a sea of �re" upon the South when the latter staged exercises near the attacked island. The South responded that it merely intends the exercises to mark the anniversary of the North's attack of the civilian island.

Sendai, Japan - More than half a year has passed since the 9.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami hit the northeastern coast of Japan. Many are still living in the temporary apartment shelters outside of Sendai, but they are now scared to live near the water. Rebuilding has been at a considerable lag, as the government promised to inject $5B for reconstruction but did not spell out when the process starts.

Guadalajara, Mexico - Drug cartel con�icts were presumed to be the reason 26 men were found bound and gagged inside three abandoned vehicles. Drug-related violence is not rare in Mexico, where 43,000 people have been killed because of it since 2006.

Lobamba, Swaziland - King Mswati III accuses his 12th wife of adultery after her having an illicit a�air with his Justice Minister, who was found (literally) under her bed. The king has 14 wives, and holds an annual gathering of young virgins called the "Reed Dance", in homage to the Queen Mother, where he chooses his next bride.

Islamabad, Pakistan - The Pakistan Telecommunica-tion Authority (PTA) sent the country’s three largest mobile carriers a list of more than 1,500 words that are deemed o�ensive, and are to be banned from being texted. Common obscene words have been banned, but words like "taxi", "idiot", "showtime". "�atulence", "Satan" and even "Jesus Christ" have also been included in the list.

Balham, South London - A bar in Balham called the Exhibit Bar has just recently installed stream-operated video games atop each urinal in their men's restroom. Male customers can now play video games while they relieve themselves, putting their “aim” to the test. The bar owner says he hopes that the urinal games can bring new customers in, and surely the men will be buying more drinks to �ll their bladders.

Sirte, Libya - Dictator Muammar Gadha� is captured and killed by rebel forces on October after 42 years of tyranny. He was not given the chance to face a court trial for the many charges against him concerning crimes against humanity.

Rome, Italy - Premier Silvio Berlusconi resigns as Italian prime minister in response to growing pressure from Italians. His resignation ended a scandal-�lled 17-year reign. While he is cleared of his many other charges, he still faces one of paying for sex with an underage nightclub dancer, who claimed she was 24 years old.

Laguindingan - Cagayan de Oro officials expressed support to the idea of renaming the Laguindingan Airport Development Project (LADP) into the “Cagayan de Oro-Misamis Oriental Airport” for easy recall and to attain global impact.

We take a step back from focusing on campus news and have a bird’s eye view of happenings beyond the walls of XU. After all, Cagayan de Oro, the Philippines, and the world are but one shared village.

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Hello mga Atenista!! Andito nanaman si Manang Dyonisya, manghud ni Aling Dyonisya (pero gwapa ha). Kung naleleto kana sa life? may ged!!! Ako rin. Heto na, hindi ko na patatagalin, mag inom sa kog soup, soup drenks. Kanang Eight Onz. Uhmmmmmmmmmm.....

Aquarius (pala-inom... ug tubig)Likayi ang pag nganga ug dako, ayaw limti nga kana siya baho… Lucky day: Sunday ra park. Lucky color: mama pink+ daddy pink = baby pink

Aries (gaka hadlok... ug tubig)Nay magpaila sa imo na stalker inday, undoy.muingon dayon siya, “hello, ako bugoy!!” Lucky day: malan-day Lucky color: royal true orange

Cancer (na, sakit na siya ging)I know nadesmaya naka, si papa P ay mama P na pala. Lucky day: day-lit Lucky color: dark transparent

Capricorn (mga kapring mais)At last! Dili najud puro candila ang gift this Christmas miga, migo, naa najuy mag hatag sa imo ug posporo. Lucky day: someday Lucky color: dirty white and very dirty black

Gemini (sige lag duha2x)It’s time to change, pagstudy na anak. Aron dili mapareha sa imong buhok nga bagsak na bagsak. Lucky day: day monyeta Lucky color: purple violet

Leo (rawr)Gusto ka makabalo kung ngano ang mga gwapa ug gwapo busy? Wait sa ha, unsaon mani? wala koi time mo answer ani. Lucky day: the day you ate kalamayLucky color: color blind

Libra (timbangan na siya)Ayaw palabe sa imong expectations, kay ang imong crush nga imong pinapanagarap ay iyong kamag-anak. Apir gaw!! Lucky day: yoda day lehoo Lucky color: blue tooth

Pisces (igsoon sa pishes)Ayaw pansina ang nag libak nimo, dili man ka pangit, dili lang jud sila kasabot sa imong pagka exotic. Lucky day: kal-day-roLucky color: yellow green

Saguitarius (ungo na siya yots)Akala mo lang kong wala, pero Meron! Meron! Meron Sinta! Buko ng papaya! Lucky day: day-jimonLucky color: peach chapay

Scorpio (igsoon sa alimango)Padal-an kag ibon sa imong tita, dili parrot o maya. Kana bitaw lepstik, etc. bsata ibon products na sila. Lucky day: yesterday tonightLucky color: fleshed light

Taurus (moo)If ga problema ka mangitag kwarta, Na!!! pareha jud ta!!! Lucky day: day tourLucky color: sky black

Virgo (kung babae Virga)Love just one person…char. And taste the rest..este!! take the risk diay.Lucky day: Dec 21, 2012Lucky color: red horse

On Wednesdays:Wednesdays are semi ghost town days now. When they planned it for student activities, I don’t think they meant for “sleep” in and “play fashion world” to make the list, other-wise most of us actually nail it pretty well.

On SBM uniforms:Who loves pencil skirts, heels, and uncomfortably hot long sleeves—especially when no one checked whether you even agreed to (or could afford to) wear them every week? Now we know how most pet poodles feel.

On the XU canteen:Surprisingly, the canteen layout works. It’s much more organized, though a lot easier to play Gossip Girl on people from the nearby tables. xoxo

On XU days:Fireworks, the horror house, interesting stalls, and even lanterns—XU days was fun this year, but you have to wonder who got stuck clean-ing up the litter. Kudos.

Congrats sa mga winners sa Spot the Crusader Logo contest!! Hurrah!! Dawata ang usa ka sako nga bugas, luto na!! Joke lang best!! Get your prizes at TheCrusader Office STC 302. And the winners are... “Tantananan!!” : Ralp Lester Gonzalez, Emherlie Lozano, Mohammad Rehan Raopan, Ian Paul Clarinay, Diana Xandrea Dusara, Elson Velasco, John Beth Galice, Almer Omandan, Steffi Inocian, Bea Jayan, Stefanne Barros, Fernando Salvacion, Arizziel Lynne Eduque, Vincent Renan BAculio, JP Ibarra.

Across3. Name of the University President of XU5. Artscies Next Top Model6. Winner of Kinauyokan Neo Dance Festival 20118. The dot above the small letters “i” and “j” is called _____.9. Flower that symbolizes rebirth and beauty11. Intramurals 2011 Slogan13. Intramurals 2011 Champion18. XUFD 2011 Band Performances19. XUFD Game show: Atenista, _______!20. 2011 NBA playoffs champion: Dallas _________22. City that hosted the 16th Philippine University Games (UniGames)23. Host of 26th SEA games 201126. Islands undergoing territorial disputes between China, Taiwan, Malaysia, Vietnam, Brunei and Philip-pines28. Current Supreme Court Speaker of the Philip-pines – Atty. _________Marquez30. XU’s age this year31. Film by Mindanao film maker Arnel Mardoqio32. Surname of current United Arts and Sciences Students President33. XU’s newest college

Down1. Soon to rise student mall in XU: __________ for Entreprenuership2. Surname of the Director of the Philippine Breast Cancer Society4. Winner, Pilipinas Got Talent Season 37. Alliance of the student leaders of Ateneo de Naga University (ADNU), Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU), Ateneo de Davao University (ADDU), Ateneo de Zamboanga University (ADZU) and Xavier Univer-sity – Ateneo de Cagayan10. Is the squiggly thing on top of the letter “ñ”11. A social business enterprise operated by a group of business adminis-tration seniors

12. Host of this year’s National debate Championship14. Intended as a film appreciation and education program15. Title of exhibit forum which is also part of the annual travelling ex-hibit organized by the Communication Foundation for Asia (CFA)16. Ms. Earth-Water 201117. Play produced in celebration of Jose Rizal’s 150th birth Anniversary21. Self-awareness, _________, Love and Heroism24. The only bird that can fly backwards25. Pacquiao’s latest opponent in the ring27. Name of the “^” symbol, used mostly to denote exponents in Math29. “________ is everywhere”

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EclipseCrossword.com

To join: photocopy this crossword puzzle with your answers and submit your entry to TheCrusader Publication office at STC 302 with your name and contact number. Fifteen lucky participants will receive limited edition collectibles.