Arts and Fights

Beyond Words

2011-10-17T01:12:00.000-07:00

By Cheeno M. Luang

(Vol. XXVIX No. 12, Editorial Cartoon)

When pound-for-pound king Manny Pacquiao sets foot inside the ring for a battle, the Filipinos are glued to their television screens to witness the event that will once again create a remarkable history. Everyone would feel proud and would boast of how lucky we are as Filipinos.

That same joviality was felt by everyone inside the very core of Lamberto Macias Sports Complex on the 26th of September, 2011 when the Negros Oriental State University community has assembled to witness and support that phenomenal win over the defending champions, the Silliman Stallions.

We have seen how motivated the Tigers were with the every shout and cheer their fellow Norsunians made. They were filled with passion and inspiration. Because of that oneness, the team won the game and clinched the third spot for this year’s Governor’s Cup.

After so many years, we have once again proven our love for the sport and resembled a team of true-blue Norsunians. The feeling was just simply indescribable – we cheered, yelled, and clapped even until the very last seconds of the game.

At the same time, we have seen how sports could draw all people together. We saw students from the different colleges and departments of the university. We were theresome faculty, staff, and even the university president Dr. Henry Sojor himself. The game once again tied each and every one of us, enveloping us in a fortress of unity and nationalism.

With this, we can conclude that if we will support our athletes in all of their games, surely, winning a championship is close at hand. The move done by the NORSU community boosted the confidence of the Tigers, thus, making it easier for them to dribble, drive, and shoot the ball into the basket. Then, support is one of the essential ingredients that make an institution reach the pinnacle of success. We might not have been there yet, but surely, it is to come.

The Tigers have proven their worth; Tigers Chess and Taekwondo Teams have won gold medals in the national level several times for the past three years already. Recently, NORSU Tigers Basketball Team dismantled last year’s champion and held top three out of eight teams.

Now, the university administration should realize that these Tigers are also an asset of the institution. Training and molding a future national winner takes time and investment. Investment means giving scholarships to all of them, not just the winners but to all the new varsity members.

Every Tiger has a potential to win and all he or she needs is support. They need scholarships and they need the cheer and the yell of all the Norsunians out there.

Kudos Tigers!

Paralled Principles

2011-10-17T01:08:00.000-07:00

By Paul Anthony M. Eso

(Vol. XXVIX No. 11, Editorial Cartoon)

Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) – Student Affairs Office (SAO) has been successful in their attempt of producing student identification cards (IDs) that is designed to last longer.

They have come up with something to replace the mere sticker at the back of the ID into one that is made of vinyl. They have at least asked for P50 for the vinyl-made validation sticker though not all students have this yet since they have not been fully distributed.

However, most of the guards do not seem to be aware of the delay in the distribution of the new IDs. It has been reported time and again that they bar students from entering the campus, or at least give those with old or temporary IDs a difficult time before they can enter the campus.

There is certainly a paralled principle between these two divisions.

First, to the SAO. From its name alone, we can already define that it is a safe haven for the students. They should, in the first place, coordinate with the Office of the Security Matters (OSM) on the delayed distribution of the new IDs.

Since they are supposed to cater the concerns of students, they should have considered even without the slightest provocation that there is a possibility for the students to be stopped at the gate if they use their temporary or old IDs. If the SAO cannot produce new student IDs yet, at least they should have informed the OSM for the latter to be guided properly.

Second is to the OSM. They are, after all, for the students’ security. But why do they have to bar the students from entering the campus, which will eventually make them miss their classes?

In the very first place, students are required to pay additional P50 for the validation stickers. So, who would not want to get and use what they have paid for? And who among them would not want to wear their IDs to school since they know this will surely bar them from entering the campus? Who in their right minds would like to argue with our guards?

Therefore, student appeals are valid. If they enter the school with temporary or old IDs, most likely it is because their IDs are not yet available.

The best remedy for this paralled policy is to have proper coordination between SAO and OSM. They should work hand in hand for their own established principles. They should meet and deliver a commendable performance and not merely do their job. They should be connected all the time.

With this, students would surely be protected and served by all means, and they would not have a hard time.

Overlooked

2011-10-17T01:05:00.000-07:00

By Ranulfo D. Repe

(Vol. XXVIX No. 10, Editorial Cartoon)

The sun was up once again, and the university is back to life. Back are the students into their respective classrooms. Back are the teachers and faculty members into their offices. Back are the vendors into their stalls, and back are the construction workers into their humble roofless abode above the CIT premises.

With the every spark of their welding rod and with the every thump of their iron hammer, one can say that the construction is on its way to completion sooner or later. This is worth commending the administration. It is of no surprise that the university, we are so proud of, is slowly metamorphosing into a more beautiful institution, both in its physical appearance and in creating a great name of excellence in different career fields.

Sad to say, however, that with the serious attention the administration has given to its massive constructions, they may have overlooked the small and the simple. The ceilings of some classrooms need to be fixed. Some lights need to work. Some fans and electrical outlets need to function. And some classrooms lack chairs.

Would not it be better if we start with the small needs and focus on building new and costly projects later? It does not mean that we should put the latter a level lower than the former. There is nothing wrong with new constructions, just as long as the minor repairs and the little needs for a more conducive classroom are also given attention. Besides, these developments do not benefit a number of people only. Each and every Norsunian feels pride with a more beautiful and well-maintained campus.

It seems like someone in the administration has overlooked these little things. It is important that more attention should be given to it before these grow to be big problems.

But of course, this is our campus. Though it is expected that the administration lead in the maintenance of our facilities, we students will have to do what we can. Student Government of Dumaguete City I (SGDCI) President Angelo Nabalse has already made plans of fixing damaged doors, repaint rooms, put up additional stand and ceiling fans, and replace fluorescent lamps that are not functioning. He even promised that he will do it before the current semester ends. But words are cheap. We hope Nabalse’s are not.

We know that the administration will have to act to fix these little things. Now that the SG President has promised to also do something about it, Norsunians are hopeful that what we have now will not be overlooked in favor of what we will have in the future.

Defining Peace

2011-10-17T01:02:00.001-07:00

By Arvin V. Rodriguez

(Vol. XXVIX No. 9, Editorial Cartoon)

Peace is a one syllable five letter word. It simply means the absence of conflict. But how does one define it for our brothers and sisters in Mindanao?

The 500-year old conflict between Christians and Muslims in Mindanao has not been resolved until now. Peace talks, treaties and other countless solutions aimed at ending this seemingly unending problem has been offered by the government, but to no avail. Some doomsayers proclaim the problem to be unsolvable.

However, some people and organizations are still hopeful that peace and unity will someday be achieved in Mindanao. The Initiatives for International Dialogue (IID) is one of those trying to promote peace in Mindanao. They do it through signature campaigns, fun runs, symposia, and the like.

The main objective of the group is to stop the conflict between the Moro Islamic Civic Groups (MICG) and the Government Military troops which has resulted in unnecessary bloodshed. The group also strives to prevent civilians from being caught between the two opposing forces, something that have occurred countless times in the past and which have led to numerous fatalities.

Because or probably in connection with this never ending dispute in Mindanao, extrajudicial killings, kidnap for ransom, murder, and inhumane executions are just some of those reportedly committed by some rebel groups. Though whoever the perpetuators are, they can never be ascertained, it is crystal clear that this conflict has displaced and affected hundreds of thousands of our Mindanao brethren, especially the young ones.

It is really heartbreaking to see that this conflict has forced some of the youth in the affected areas to carry high caliber guns instead of school bags with pens, notebooks, and books in it, forced some very young children to beg and even prostitute themselves on the streets instead of playing in them.

In a press conference, IID calls for Filipinos around the globe and to all Norsunians and all Dumagueteños in particular, to lift their hands and help promote peace in Mindanao. Be a contributor to the one million voices for Peace in the Philippines by being vigilant in what is happening in Mindanao, by joining contests aimed to commence peace, and by writing literary pieces with peace as its theme. The IID believes that through these little initiatives, someday, peace will unite the country.

The NORSUnian joins this call. We encourage all of those who read this paper contribute to any effort that would bring peace to Mindanao. Our efforts may be small and our contributions perhaps insignificant when compared to the size of this conflict. Nevertheless, if we are all united in advocating, helping our brothers and sisters in Mindanao, we might just be able to help them find their own definition of peace.

An Honest Centavo

2011-10-17T00:56:00.001-07:00

By Cheeno M. Luang

(Vol. XXVIX No. 8, Editorial Cartoon)

Early this semester, several incidents of theft at the University Library baggage counter have been brought to the attention of the Office of Security Matters (OSM). Police Colonel Rosalinda Abellon, chief officer assigned to the case, reported that the culprit behind the five cases of theft at the said location is a student and that she has finally been caught and is now under disciplinary action by the Board of Discipline.

The student was apprehended with the help of the close-circuit camera installed at the library baggage counter. “Technology is really working and is very important,” said Abellon. The NORSUnian agrees to that. In today’s advent of technology, crimes such as theft can be easily solved because of Close Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras that are installed in some areas here in the university.

However, that does not mean that because of this technology, we will just become careless and irresponsible with our belongings. Since it is not every time that the CCTV is there to record activities inside the university, it is our primary responsibility to safeguard our things.

We encourage all students to take good care of your wallets, bags, and valuables when inside and even outside the university. As what this unfortunate event has shown us, people may get tempted, and anyone may be a culprit. On the other hand, anyone can also be a victim. Bad elements never warn you of their intentions. They simply wait for the opportunity to pounce.

Life is hard, and many have made this a reason for their criminal acts. But life’s difficulty does not absolve us of our moral values. Poverty does not justify dishonesty. Being underprivileged does not give us license to prey on those who are also less fortunate.

We have to learn to live within our means. We have to learn to find honest sources of income. There are part-time jobs out there that we can avail of. NORSU also has some student jobs available. Maybe it is a good idea for the university someday to have a mechanism to help students who are really financially challenged. But while we hope and work for things to turn out better for us, let us not forget that stealing is never acceptable and that “an honest centavo is better than a stolen peso.”

Not Worth the Price

2011-10-17T00:46:00.000-07:00

By Paul Anthony M. Eso

(Vol. XXVIX No. 7, Editorial Cartoon)

Our very own Internet Research Station (IRS) is considered to be one of the most serviceable facilities that the Norsunians ever had. The facility provides students and faculty access to the fast mode services of the internet. It is also a God-sent educational tool, especially for those taking computer-related courses.

However, there are numerous complaints about the seemingly poor management of the IRS. These include allegations that IRS personnel are inconsiderate and that students are not allowed access to available computer units.

It has reached The NORSUnian that an IRS staff member allegedly shut off computers even when students are still in the middle of their work. Why should he turn the PCs off if someone is still using it? Is it to punish the student for going beyond his/her allocated time? That is just plain heartless. The students deserve to be warned so they can save or secure their work.

Crowds of students needing to use the computers have also swelled outside the IRS since the staff only made one out of the three rooms available for students to use. It has been explained by Information Technology Office (ITO) Director Henedino Ramacho that the IRS only keeps one room operational throughout the day to save electricity. He was quick to add, though, that IRS staff members have been directed to open the other IRS rooms when the first room is full. But why was this directive was not carried out immediately? Why open the two rooms only after numerous complaints from students?

We appreciate the immediate reaction of the ITO and the IRS to appease the students. But we suggest for them to be more proactive and considerate. May we also suggest that they keep their 8am to 8pm operating hours instead of opening almost at 9am and closing at 7pm.

Students have been accused of complaining too much. Students complain because it is their right. Students also complain when things need to be remedied or when they feel they have been short-changed.

If the IRS personnel think that students are making too much of a fuss, please remember that every semester, each student pays 300 pesos to avail of the services of the IRS. Right now, its services are certainly not worth the price.

Hopefully

2011-08-10T19:37:00.000-07:00

By Ranulfo D. Repe

(Vol. XXVIX No. 6, Editorial Cartoon)

We are now under the transition period of a new student administration, under two student leaders – who have seen the existing predicaments of the university and who have been ever ready to cater to the needs of their fellow students.

We extend our congratulations to Student Government of Dumaguete City (SGDC) I Presidents Angelo Nabalse and SGDC II President Jillie Ann Rubio for winning the highest offices in the two main campuses of Negros Oriental State University.

It is interesting to note that these presidents have a well-rounded background of what leadership should and would be, having wonderful and interesting plans at present to employ under their administration.

Nabalse, in an interview, said that he did not run for the office to be famous but to serve as a good role model to his fellow students, helping them to develop whatever abilities they have. He also mentioned his concern for the students during rainy days so he is to erect more canopies along the sidewalks inside the campus.

Rubio, on the other hand, aired her frustration on how the students in the Main Campus II suffer during rainy days and promised to have the pathways covered. She is also concerned about the cleanliness and comfort of the students and wants to repair and construct more comfort rooms for them.

They are both strong in their will to give the students of Negros Oriental State University a better administration and better service. However, as concerned students, we have to question them on how committed they are to serve us.

They have taken their oaths several weeks ago. Since they have been good at presenting problems with interesting and commendable solutions, they could hopefully do better at realizing what they have promised for the betterment of the studentry, for the betterment of NORSU.

Would these two presidents be really that transparent to the community they serve? Would they be willing to be overt in every plan and implementation, including all expenses included in all transactions and businesses they create? Would they really serve as the role models of goodwill and be outstanding figures that will make a difference?

These are challenges we are presenting to them this early in their administration. It is in the hope that they do not forget whom they serve and that they will remain true to the ideals of real leadership. It is in the hope that they do very well to lead us to the possibilities we can achieve.

A Welcome Facility

2011-08-10T19:30:00.000-07:00

By Angelo K. Sastre

(Vol. XXVIX No. 5, Editorial Cartoon)

With the opening of a new semester, a new fully-furnished air-conditioned Audio Visual Room (AVR) that will enhance the efficiency of classes was built. With the new AVR, instructors and students now have a suitable avenue for film showing, PowerPoint presentations, oral defense and other related activities.

It is indeed a very important facility invested in by the Negros Oriental State University administration. It is envisioned to boost the students’ and teachers’ view on learning. It is certainly a prelude to a more sophisticated learning environment.

The new AVR would really be a great help to the whole NORSU community especially to many poor but deserving students of this university for in the past, students used to spend P100 to rent a LCD projector for every hour. What a burden!

However, with the realization of this facility, questions will be raised concerning its availability and accessibility to the general population of the university. If we could take note that its sister facility – the Speech Laboratory – which cost a million pesos to built, has not yet been fully maximized. It is our hope that the AVR will not follow this path.

With this, we ask the whole student community to make use of the facility. If you have reports or any activity that will fit the functions of the AVR then start making your request letters. It is your right, our right to utilize what has been created from our resources. Nonetheless, we must take note that any equipment must be handled with care.

Also, we challenge all the teachers to acquaint their students with the new facility that the university has. It is for a fact that not all students even know how to use an LCD projector, or even what the acronym stand for. With the advent of technology, every student must be familiar with the functions of basic multimedia equipment that may come quite in handy when they graduate.

With the new AVR, we at NORSU will once again be proud for our university has created another trademark of progress and pure excellence.

2011-08-10T19:16:00.000-07:00

By Arvin V. Rodriguez

(Vol. XXVIX No. 4, Editorial Cartoon)

As the university opens its gates for the freshmen and continuing students, a familiar disappointing and confusing situation meets the students at the campus gates. This is the inconsistency of the policy of the university security guards in determining what is required for students to enter the campus.

Most of us are aware that the security guards have a hard time implementing policies regarding their manner of dealing with the students. More often than not, they are allowed to make hasty decisions in the conduct of their duties; keeping in mind not to step on the rights of students and to practice proper etiquette on what a good security guard should do. But their decision-making does not always seem to be beneficial to the students amid the series of reports about guard-against-student scenarios that are reported in The NORSUnian.

Though it was already agreed by Student Affairs Office Director Giovanni Macahig and Chief Security Officer Nilo Lauron that students are allowed to enter the university using their enrollment load slips while waiting for the university Identification Cards to be finished, there are reports that a certain guard continues to bar some students from entering the campus. These students claim to have presented their enrollment load slips. Worst, it has been reported that the said guard insults students when the latter tries to explain their side. The said guard even lets the students wait for some time before telling them they cannot enter the campus at all. Because of this, some students were not able to attend their classes. Sounds familiar? This is not the first time it has happened.

There is really something wrong with how some of our university security guards conduct their duties. Lauron should do some checking. He especially should look into one of the security guards who seems to be the perpetrator of all this. To save this guard from embarrassment, we have decided not to name him here. It is a courtesy we are extending to him, in spite of his discourtesy to a lot of students. But the same security guard was the subject of a motion of last year’s Student Government officials. The said motion stated that this guard was causing trouble here in the university. With this in mind, it would not be very difficult for university officials to identify who he is.

The CSO or the NORSU administration should do something about this. As long as there is inconsistency in the security guards’ understanding of certain policies on what is required by students to enter the campus, some of them can go as far as bullying the students. If this goes unchecked, some students may not be able to control their anger and frustration at the guards.

We, the students, should try to do our part. We have been given ample time to change or validate our IDs. Let us take that opportunity to go to DBM and get some pictures taken for our new IDs. We should remember that our IDs are necessary for us to enter the university. Also, remember, we have paid for it.

This is our way of supporting Lauron and Macahig in creating better disciplined individuals. Hopefully, this will ease the tension at the entrance gate--an issue that we have come across for the nth time.

Call a Spade a Spade

2011-07-08T17:17:00.000-07:00

By Paul Anthony M. Eso
(Vol. XXIX No. 3 , Editorial Cartoon)

College Acquaintance Party. For the oldies of the university, this is an opportunity to be re-acquainted to old buddies and friends. For the newbies, this might be a chance to establish new, and possibly, intimate friendships with other students.

Normally, different governors of the various academic colleges of this institution exert great effort in organizing successful acquaintance parties. They cook up elaborate themes and rent the trendiest venues.

This year, however, there will be no such party to prepare for after University President Henry A. Sojor said that there will be no acquaintance parties.

Sojor said that students should be engaged in more relevant activities like debating, orating, public speaking, dancing, singing, and acting. He said that these activities will contribute greatly to a student’s development. He continued that acquaintance parties are not the only avenue to get acquainted with the rest of the students in the university.

It is a fact that the activities suggested by the university president will hone the skills and talents of the students. Anyway, for the past years, students complain about the inadequate food, lousy program, money-consuming motifs, and dreadful venues during and after every acquaintance party.

College governors should bear in mind that they are leaders and that they are supposed to be creative and resourceful. They should better be thinking of other ways for students to be acquainted without spending more than what they have paid for.

So here’s the rub. What will they do with the P200 contributed by each student? Won’t the amount be too much for just a series of contests? How many students can participate in such activities, anyway? It would be a certainty that colleges will only field their best students. So what happens to the rest of us? Become part of the audience? We pay P200 so most of us can become part of an audience?

Also, why did the university president allow the students to continue to pay for the acquaintance party fund, when, in the first place, he did not intend to conduct one? Why did he make and disclose of this decision just now?

Imagine buying P200 worth of junk food from a store selling them only to be given milk and bread by the vendor because he thinks it is healthy for you. Why is the vendor selling junk food in the first place?

It’s the students’ money after all. Why not give them the chance to decide on how and where to spend their money?

And would not it be best if we call a spade a spade.

PhD: A Standard and a Challenge

2011-07-08T17:13:00.000-07:00

By Cheeno M. Luang
(Vol. XXIX No. 2, Editorial Cartoon)

It was not so long ago when University President Henry A. Sojor encouraged the teachers of this institution to have, as much as possible, an access to acquiring a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree. This would not only benefit the school where they are employed in but to also boost their morale as educators. With the challenge on hand, the people concerned arrived at varied conclusions, including those who were not so up to the challenge.

With the president’s ambitious plan of sending teachers back to school, not to only teach but to study as well, is quite hard to reach as of the moment.

There are reasons at stake for such a plan. Though enticing as it seems, getting a PhD is not an easy thing to do, considering that it is the highest academic degree academic scholars can give to an individual.

First is money. Money is the worst nemesis of most teachers. As much as they wanted to pursue higher education, scarcity of money is always present. Teachers have to spend a feasible amount to pay for the transportation, the boarding house, the piles of books needed for study, the allowance and other minute expenses, and of greatest need, the dissertation.

Next is the minimal availability of universities in the entire Central Visayas Region offering PhD programs thus hindering teachers to earn a degree in their field of specialization.

The degree calls for a much higher level of critical thinking so only those who can endure the hassles and twist their brains like never before can pass.

At this point in time, after the president gave his challenge to the teachers to acquire a Doctoral degree, there should be a concrete plan and program as to what should be done next. If this university allocates millions for the development of the facilities and renovation of buildings, why don’t they try to set aside an amount for those aspiring NORSU teachers having Masters degree and support them in their Doctoral ambitions? If other universities can send their teachers abroad to study PhD in their respective fields, why can’t NORSU do so?

On the other hand, the greater help must come from the aspirants in order for them to reach the Doctorate level. According to what Dr. Henry A. Sojor said, it is the moral and professional obligation of a teacher to develop himself. He related that when he was still studying for his PhD, he was supporting himself all the way through until he finally earned what he deserved.

The university is there to help those who help themselves, to those who show great potential in their respective fields, to those who can benchmark with international standards, and to those who never make money a reason for not getting a Doctorate degree.

This is the highest academic degree offered to deserving individuals and thus a standard to look up to. This is a challenge to those who have aspired to go for the highest rank and be called Doctors of Philosophy. This is both a standard and a challenge to those who always find reasons of quitting and being contented with their Bachelor or Master’s degree.

Fight Apathy!!!

2011-07-08T17:07:00.001-07:00

By Paul Anthony M. Eso
(Vol. XXIX No. 1, Editorial Cartoon)

What is a student publication? It is either a reading material used to inform or just pieces of paper used to kill time. It could also be used as a protection from the dirt of the benches in the open court or as head coverings when it is raining. It could even be the wrappers of your lunch boxes or a substitute of the toilet tissues. It could be the place where students who have the writing prowess could brag to other students on how good they are.

But it is more than that. The essence of having a student publication is not for the fame or superiority but in having YOU as the clientele.

You. Yes, you. You, the students, who allocate P150 every semester to provide the funding of the publication. You, who comprise the largest number of readers. You, who are the main target of the information presented in every issue.

The student publication is not bound to serve ourselves but to serve YOU. Sometimes, however, we doubt if you have even realized that thought, that we are here to do so. When your instructors give you grades that you do not deserve, you remain silent. When you are asked to pay for questionable funds, you just murmur. When you are strangled with unjustified policies, you bear with it. When you are emotionally, verbally, and even sexually harassed, you just close your eyes. When your rights are being denied, trampled and thrown away, you do nothing.

Mutes, blinds, deafs, and cowards. Is that what we all are? You must have forgotten or have just simply ignored the fact that you have a school paper that will fight for YOUR rights, OUR rights.

With this, we echo this challenge to all Norsunians today. Fight for YOUR rights! Use this school publication as your mouth to speak out what is right, as your hand to get what you deserve, as your key to release you from the clause of apathy. If you will not do it, who will? And if not now, when? Only then, we can call this institution a STUDENT PUBLICATION.

Negligence

2011-02-25T20:06:00.000-08:00

By Paul Anthony M. Eso
(Vol. XXVIII No. 17, Editorial Cartoon)

One of the populous spots inside the university is the NORSU library. For Norsunians, the books in the library are still the best reference in making their projects and assignments. For some, it is always a favorable place to study.

But before a student can enter the said library, a student should leave his belongings on the bagagge area. For University Librarian Pablita Munar, it is for the safety of the books and periodicals which the students might be taking home. Thus, she ordered that students can only bring limited items upon entering, while the rest will be placed in the shelves and will be guarded by student assistants (SAs).

But with the advent of modern technology, some Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras were placed inside the library to ensure safety to the properties of the students, and to lessen manpower. The librarian herself claimed that students need not worry about their belongings because the cameras will be helpful in identifying the culprit if anything is lost.

But students are still complaining to have lost something in the library. Why are there still cases of missing properties of students after leaving the said area? Was it because of plain negligence on the part of students, or pure disregard of authorities on the alarming situation?

Some Norsunians have already been suggesting to bring with them their properties inside the library to ensure its safety, but the authorities declined. The reason still goes the same. Why do not they just allow and trust the students to bring their valuables and to observe proper usage on library materials? It would be better to give it a try.

Meanwhile, authorities said that some Norsunians are picking the wrong thing because of too many bags being placed in the library shelves, but are students not vigilant enough with their personal things? What a lame excuse.

Moreover, they said that the cameras are weak during brownouts, so there is less possibility that the culprit will be known after the incident happened. It seems that they are taking their words back. Why are they letting students leave their properties behind without proper security?

Thus, there are two options. The students should be allowed to bring with them their belongings to observe proper security, or presume the SAs to guard students’ belongings.

If the first option will be granted, then the students should be responsible with their actions by taking care of the books that they have borrowed. The CCTV cameras should then be placed inside the library premises to watch over the students’ behavior. In that way, the proper usage of the cameras is highly realized.

Meanwhile, if the latter option will be good for them, then students’ belongings will be properly secured. The librarian and the office of security matters as well, need not worry with the limitations of the cameras installed and that the uncontrolled incidents will not happen again.

Negligence should never be an excuse. The administration and the students should work hand in hand for the safety of all. Let us stop blaming each other, and instead be responsible enough in observing what is right.

Let common sense work

2011-02-25T19:59:00.000-08:00

By Cheeno M. Luang
(Vol. XXVIII No. 16, Editorial Cartoon)

The No-Smoking Ordinance was implemented last August 2010; the new Internet Research Station was opened early January this year; and the drinking fountains were put up last month.

However, it is disturbing to find out that some students are letting their ignorance hamper the effectiveness of these facilities.

Let’s consider these concerns one by one. First, the No-Smoking Ordinance of the Provincial Government prohibits the selling of cigarettes in public areas, and disallows smoking within the 100-meter distance from educational institutions, government edifices, vehicles, and all public places. To recall, University President Henry A. Sojor himself announced during the university’s 5th Charter Day of the university that anyone violating the policy will be sanctioned.

However, after several months, it was found out that some students still violate the ordinance by smoking along the pathways outside the campus, apparently because no authority apprehended them.

Second is the new IRS at the 4th floor of the College of Arts and Sciences building. In just three weeks, students were found to have defeated the real purpose of the facility by viewing social networking sites, notably Facebook, instead of researching for school requirements. With the behavior showed by the students, the IRS personnel preferred to block the sites because aside from spending more time on these, students are not attending their classes anymore.

Third, the drinking fountains which were supposedly for drinking were used for hand washing and cleaning of utensils.Worse is the fact that even some teachers do the same action when they are supposed to be role models. It is a good thing though to see students slowly learning and avoiding doing that disturbing habit.

However, we cannot escape from the fact that these realities are signs of ignorance, if not stupidity, and lack of common sense.

We are not elementary school pupils anymore who need to be told on what to do. We are supposed to be mature enough and are expected to understand, by the use of our common sense, what and where a certain facility is intended for.

If we continue this intolerant behavior, we will put the whole Negros Oriental State University system to shame.

Recently, the amphitheater was officially opened. We hope that the facility’s real purpose will be strictly followed and that students will not just use this as an avenue for gossiping, eating, drinking, and even, dating.

We, Norsunians, should give a full throttle of cooperation and attitude make-over so that these attitudes of making and following our own rules be carried on before things get worse.

For the better

2011-02-25T19:24:00.000-08:00

By Arvin V. Rodriguez

(Vol. XXVIII No. 15, Editorial Cartoon)

It has been years now since each of the colleges of Negros Oriental State University celebrate their individual college fun days separately. As a matter of fact, it has been anticipated every year by most of the students who wish to know their college colleagues better and who seeks for a one-day fun to escape the constraints of education.

Very recently, a proposal was created to merge the fun days of the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Education, and College of Business and Accountancy. This is mainly to prevent further postponement of classes, to save time, effort, and money, to extend the camaraderie by mingling with other students from neighboring colleges, and to maximize the amount of fun each student will experience during their college fun day.

When we look at the surface, this is a good move from the deans and faculties who formulated and supported this plan. In fact, the realization of this plan will be implemented few days from now.

However, since this will be the first time that the three colleges merge their fun day, there will definitely have problems and complications along the way. One would be the proper accommodation of an increased crowd. With the swarming of a multitude on that day, there is a need for a firmer security to watch over the welfare of the students. The preparation would be tighter and activities would be enhanced. There are even some students who are still crossing their eyebrows on this plan and commented that they won’t see the real meaning of college fun day when they share it with other colleges.

With these possible glitches, much optimism should be poured on that grand affair. We have to expect that on this first merging of fun day, there will more amusement and laughter, gaiety and socialization – an experience that we will always keep. Negative feedbacks are always there to contradict the plan but it would still be better to try for a change. Erase the bitterness and support what needs to be bettered.

Just like the rest of the ‘first times’ that we have attempted to do, this major event needs fervent prayer and ample support. Though not everyone agrees that it would be more fun compared to the typical fun day celebration, many are still anticipating for the surprises it will offer.

If this event becomes successful , then let congratulations be extended to the people who made it possible. But if nothing goes right, it would be a doubt if there will be a second or a third merging of college fun day.

A job well done

2011-01-03T20:03:00.000-08:00

By Paul Anthony M. Eso

(Vol. XXVIII No. 12, Editorial Cartoon)

After bidding goodbye to the most anticipated guest of the night, the Rocksteddy band, one can see how badly the university needed to clean up some corners of the university.

Outside the main gate, the presidents of different student organizations has started giving instructions to their members on how to clear their respective areas and remove the erected canopies. As the night of December 3 ended with a very colorful presentation of fireworks, everyone sighed for the long week of fun was finally over.

Negros Oriental State University’s (NORSU) Founders Week, with the theme “Nurturing desire for harmony of man and nature,” was undeniably a success. Though with a few glitches, the Student Government and the League of Student Organizations (LSO) have proven that they can provide the students with back to back events loaded with fun and excitement.

To recap, on the night of the much awaited Mister and Miss NORSU 2011, the university gym was jam-packed. Students gathered and shouted their hearts out in cheering for their representatives and bets. And when the spotlight highlighted the new Ambassadors of Goodwill, not all; but most of the students were at peace that the judges were able to choose the deserving ones.

The Dance Sport, Cheerleading, and Cheering Squad competition also brought delight to its spectators. Each jump, throw, and thud were keenly watched. The students’ eyes were stuck on the groovy steps; and when mistakes were committed, everyone gave an “aww” expression almost simultaneously.

Another event that aroused the interest of Norsunians was the modern dance. Clad in their best costumes, all the participants gave it at their best. They brought dancing to a whole new level as they gave out the latest dance moves and the unique ones that their group made. Each contingent’s choreography was also well thought.

The Choral Singing Competition, not to be forgotten, also made a mark to each of the student’s heart as the participants tried to reach out to their audience with their angelic voices and lively song pieces.

Another event that showcased the creativity, discipline, and talent of all the Norsunians was the Hugyawan Festival. On the busy thoroughfares of the city, the dancers showed their colorful costumes and synchronized moves, each portraying a story. The amazement and curiosity were purely evident in each of the faces of the spectators despite the scorching heat. The excitement continued as each contender showed their entire potentiality on the whole duration of the showdown held at the gym of the university.

The said events could not be made possible without the collaborated efforts of the SG and LSO members, the administration, and of course, the students. It is then appropriate that we commend the SG and LSO members for all the hard work in putting up all the events successfully and the administration for the support. We, the Norsunians, should also give ourselves a round of applause for participating in the celebration of our alma mater’s birthday, and of course in giving importance to the bond that each of us and the faculty and staff member were able to strengthen. A job well done everybody!

Better than the best

2010-12-15T07:37:00.000-08:00

By Cheeno M. Luang

(Vol. XXVIII No. 11, Editorial Cartoon)

Everyone is spic and span for one of the most significant events of Negros Oriental State University (NORSU)—the 83rd Founder’s Week Celebration with its theme, “Nurturing Desire for Harmony of Man and Nature.” The full-wit and grace ambiance is already lingering widespread the campus, and Norsunians are now making their shift in fulfilling a dedicative contribution for the most anticipated event.

With the ample time given, various colleges and satellite campuses are now giving a full-swing performance in every event that will surely leave the spectators a wow feeling. The different organizers are now in the thick of fulfilling their promise to make the best out of what they are doing to contribute to the success of the university celebration. Even the homecoming alumni have their part—sharing their gratefulness and the successes they have achieved to their alma mater.

However, while the rest of the NORSU family are gathered as one in this big celebration, there are still those who take advantage and decide to go home and have an early vacation. More often than not, students would just leisurely disregard the must-have-been bond between students and faculty members, which can be strengthened during the Founder’s Week Celebration.

This gleeful event is not a time for long sleeps and more siesta. This is a high time wherein we need to be happy and have fun. It is the moment to wash away all the stresses given by bulk of tasks in the university while unleashing our artistic and playful side. An undeniable fact that twinned with the participation in these events is, tiredness, but it should never be an excuse not to participate.

Each and every Norsunian and all the members of the faculty and staff should take part in this celebration because we all have roles to play making the best Founder’s Week ever.

To those who are not part any of the events, try helping through other little ways like volunteering on doing the props and costumes, distributing snacks for the participants, or helping in designing the canopies. These little things should not be overlooked, because these may turn to something significant in the end. Thus, it is your job to make sure that you have done your part in making things go smoothly.

We all have the intelligence, uniqueness, and talent to make it to the top, but only a true blue Norsunian has the character to appreciate and be thankful of each special moment along the way – and that character could never bear the idea of leaving his alma mater in times when his presence and participation is greatly needed. Happy Founders Week NORSU!

Not far from true

2010-12-01T02:53:00.000-08:00

By Paul Anthony M. Eso

(Vol. XXVIII No. 9, Editorial Cartoon)

Five months after implementing the first departmental enrollment system in the history of Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) piloted by the College of Industrial Technology, the College of Education (CED) and the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) followed.

The College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA), College of Maritime Education (CME), and College of Agriculture and Forestry (CAF) in Main Campus II also implemented the same. However, students from the three colleges still have to go to Campus I to pay their tuitions and other fees, settle their subject-related problems, and process other important papers which are not handled by the faculty and staff of their campus.

But the University Registrar answered that the money collected must be put into consideration first. He continued that the other campus is a little far from the main, hence transporting the amount paid by students might be taken by whoever has big interest on it.

Moreover, going back to the focal point, through the advancement brought by the departmental way of enrollment, the line of students decreased and the crowd was controlled.

However, the problem is on the payment of NORSU Scholars Federation (NSF) Fund which was handed to the Cashier’s Office and to colleges having the departmental system such as the CIT, CEd or CAS (depending on where the student belongs), instead of receiving the payment right after the verification of scholars’ grades in the Student Affairs Office Hall. So, which most of the scholars considered a hassle and burden.

One week after enrollment was officially started [when the schedule was set for the second years to higher years], colleges implementing the departmental system were no more accepting NSF fees from students because according to a receiving personnel in one of these colleges, it was the instruction given to them.

Thus, scholars did not have a choice but to proceed to the Cashier’s Office. Students with different purposes (e.g. paying tuitions, INCs and retakes, NSF) flocked in the area. Students from Campus II were one of them too.

This long queue delayed the enrollment of students resulting to the closing of subjects they wanted to take. Worse for scholars for they still need the approval and the signature of the authorized person for their forms. So they have to stand in line outside the Accounting Office, and when they proceed to the encoding station, there were no more available schedules aside from the major subjects.

The aforementioned situations only indicate that the system of enrollment still has many things to improve.

One of these is to give ample time for scholars to process their scholarship because some benefactors do not submit the lists and approve the scholarship grants on time.

In the Accounting Office, there should be two or more personnel to cater the needs of thousands of scholars because if you ask the latter, majority would say that it is the major hindrance of scholars to enroll early.

The main solution is to implement the departmental enrollment in all colleges [in the two main campuses] of NORSU, for this will assure a convenient and speedy enrollment.

But let’s not lose hope. Let’s continue believing on the capability of our leaders, of the school administration especially of the University President to make the great enrollment process transformation in our school.

It will happen in a no longer span of time. Let’s just patiently wait for this big improvement we have been aiming for.

A value to be valued

2010-11-15T00:37:00.001-08:00

By Cheeno M. Luang

(Vol. XXVIII No. 8, Editorial Cartoon)

Everyone was disheveled upon hearing the staggering news that the NORSU guards are once again acting gruesome on the affairs of the students especially on the status of their identification cards and their decency as university goers.

These might be considerable for it is their job to ensure the safety of the institution as well as follow orders from higher authorities.

But it seems more than enough already to include confiscating food and drinking items from outside the campus. Even candies and gums were never exempted.

Instead of pelting a splendid amount of negativism to the administration, especially to the university president who gave direct orders of confiscation, let us try to delve deeper into the justification of the one man who started it all, for a change.

In a statement, University President Henry A. Sojor said that the students have to do their part in maintaining the cleanliness of the school. “Ask not what NORSU can do for you but what you can do for NORSU,” he said. Norsunians seem to act like grade one pupils for disregarding pieces of paper and plastic loitered everywhere, waiting to be reprimanded every time. Aside from that, the comfort rooms are not well taken care of, even after giving necessary repairs to it. He saw that the cleanliness of the school was at stake together with the comfort rooms and utilities which ceased to flush and started to malfunction so he put up a solution, which obviously was not taken lightly by the students and even by the parents.

Students cannot just turn tail and run from the fact that we are so much better in wailing for an upgrade of facilities, which, of course is beneficial, but are never cautious in taking good care of these provisions. We even ignore the efforts of having a clean school environment by not disposing garbages properly or neglecting the overlaid trashes on foyers and walkways; but then advocate on the upheaval of the students against the disciplinary acts of the father of the university.

Always put in mind that we are in a state university, which tries to be grateful for that meager budget coming from the higher office. We are not contained in a private institution wherein we can enjoy airconditioned rooms, high technology facilities, and instant servicing systems.

This year, the national government’s proposed budget for the 2011 has cut the fund for state universities and colleges. But to an optimistic leader like Sojor, Negros Oriental State University can still “do more with less.”

This time, more than ever, it would just be quite right for us to remember and put in heart the elementary values taught to us by the song, “This Is My School,” This is my school and because I love her, I shall try to make and keep her beautiful…so shall my school become the school beautiful, back-upped with the adage, “cleanliness is next to godliness.”

The president is then right in inculcating one important value: Responsibility.

NORSU’s crowning glory

2010-11-06T06:10:00.000-07:00

By Paul Anthony M. Eso

(Vol. XXVIII No. 7, Editorial Cartoon)

NORSU’s crowning glory

A few months ago, the whole NORSU community was amazed by the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) declaration that Negros Oriental State University is one of the top performing schools in the entire country offering Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Imagine the mixed emotions of surprise, gratefulness, and glee for those who were directly and indirectly concerned of the news. That was the time when this institution was very much awed with the performance of the Nursing students —when all the pioneer 17 graduates who took of the Nurse Licensure Examination (NLE) passed, making the university an automatic 100 percent achiever.

This made us, NORSU-Main Campus I, the number one record-holder for range three (those schools with 10 to 99 takers) and the top nursing performing school along with the Bukidnon State College—Malaybalay Campus and the University of the Philippines—Manila Campus.

Very recently, NORSU’s banner was once again raised after three board takers namely: Dante Alcona, Richard Bajado and Edsel Electona successfully passed the Master Mariner Licensure Examination (MMLE), giving the university a glorifying 100 percent passing rate. They would not definitely conceal that wonderful feeling of receiving kudos from fellow Norsunians and a highly-acclaimed future waiting to be ventured. In line with that is the succes of the 19 more Norsunians who passed the O.I.C.- Navigational Watch Licensure Examination (NWLE) which furnished the school a 63 percent passing rate, and Timotheo Buscato Jr. who, out of two takers, made it to the Chief Mate Licensure Examination, giving the university a 50 percent passing rate. Wonderful performance indeed!

Here is another fact. The dean of the College of Maritime shared that “as far as the College of Maritime Education is concerned, we are glad that in every board examination, the college has passers.” He assured that this 100 percent passing rate in MMLE will certainly inspire the students to strive harder.

With the university’s top performing colleges, the College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA), the College of Maritime Education (CME), and the College of Nursing, Dentistry, Pharmacy, and Allied Health Sciences (CNDPAHS), Dr. Henry A. Sojor is very much confident with the potential of every Norsunian and said that intelligence will not matter whatever the social status of a person is.

What do you think would be the best way for you to contribute to this notable success of the university? Would you want your name to be in tarpaulins and be the future reasons of the beaming smiles of the faculty and staff of this institution, too? It is your choice, and it is your decision to make.

Tightening the leash

2010-11-06T04:41:00.000-07:00

By Karl Sheen A. Ates

(Vol. XXVIII No. 6, Editorial Cartoon)

Tightening the leash

University President Henry A. Sojor is convinced that it is important for the students to attend grand events like convocations every now and then. Because of its importance, he has ordered students to remain within the gymnasium premises where the event is being held.

For him, not letting the students go regardless of reasons is teaching them discipline. His challenge is for students to act maturely, to become university students as they are, rather than becoming whiners like high school kids.

So imagine the reaction of some students who begged the security guards to let them go because they have to go to their part-time work, but rather got snide remarks and hostility. But instead of spending their time where they can earn money so that they have something to eat the following day have to miss a day’s work and have to stay in a crowded gymnasium.

In an interview, Sojor clarified however that some students will now be excused provided that their deans approve the validity of their reasons.

It was a lousy attempt to appease the students who are not only disgruntled over the not-so-well-thought-about policy, but angry as well, that they are becoming guinea pigs of the university president’s fickle mindedness.

What has become a threat is that Dr. Sojor made a sweeping statement that students will now be asked to attend all grand events. Whether university–led and sponsored masses are included in these events is yet to be clarified. Because imagine how students of other religion would feel.

In line with Sojor’s excuse which is to discipline the students, it seems like the university president is saying that the four units and countless of hours spent by the students in Reserve Officers’ Training Corps training (ROTC) are for nothing. That the efforts of the commandants and officers of the said program are useless and that the security guards of the university can teach the students discipline better.

That the security guards are better than the commandants? That would be both offensive and demeaning. Even the officers of the ROTC training programs will most likely agree.

It is understandable that convocations play a major role in every student’s life. It is also commendable that the university president has thought of ways to make sure that every student takes time to attend these. However, in making policies, the administration should always consider all things relevant to the matter and be more specific in giving out new policies.

Because imagine the damage they have done to students. And imagine the damage they might have caused to some others who chose to keep quiet.

One skewed rule

2010-08-24T05:05:00.001-07:00

By Paul Anthony M. Eso

(Vol. XXVIII No. 5, Editorial Cartoon)

One Skewed rule

It seems that University President Henry A. Sojor felt like the students of Negros Oriental State University are not only hardheaded but also beyond help. Perhaps, because of this belief he has cooked up a policy that is not only absurd but also ridiculous if not demeaning for an administrator of his stature.

Who wouldn’t want a clean university?

If Sojor will be asked, he would most likely point his fingers to the students. That is why in one of those boring days, he had a talk with Chief Security Officer Nilo Lauron. No one really knew what they talked about, only that days after that, Lauron has mobilized his minions and asked them that foods taken inside the campus by the students should be confiscated.

By the way, Lauron said that it was not their job to inform the students of the orders given by the university president. He said that it is the Student Government’s job. So, even without properly informing the students, they continued with their stunts. As usual, they hid again behind “we are just following orders.”

So imagine the surprise of the students when the baon they brought from home [took time to prepare and pack it] were taken away like it was a piece of bomb ready to explode. Imagine the faces of the students who, because they have no extra money at hand, have to buy biscuits in advance just to save some extra pesos, but only to end up with nothing to eat at all.
Sojor said that the main purpose of this is to maintain cleanliness, sanitation and hygiene inside the campus.

Could this mean that the university president is finally reaching that point wherein he can’t come up with better means to discipline the students, so he would stoop as low as confiscating baons and hide behind saying that it is to maintain cleanliness, sanitation and hygiene?

It is true that drastic times call for drastic measures. There is no problem about wanting to maintain cleanliness but to go as far as confiscating baons is stooping down way too many levels.
It was Sojor who keeps on admonishing that NORSU is a school for the poor but deserving students. It was also Sojor who said that students go to school in order to learn.

But with this new policy, is it even fitting for the poor but deserving students? A lot of students cannot afford the food served at the canteen. Guess they have no choice now but to really buy, wouldn’t they?

And what kind of lesson does he want the students to learn this time? Obviously, he wanted the students to learn cleanliness at the expense of the students getting hungry because the baon they can afford is taken away.

If Sojor thinks that the students are beyond help, that they cannot be disciplined anymore by plainly showing them how to do it, then what difference is NORSU to a prison or an asylum?
Only the university president can answer that.

More improvements

2010-08-05T23:26:00.000-07:00

By Cheeno M. Luang

(Vol. XXVIII No. 4, Editorial Cartoon)

More improvements

There were significant developments in Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) that made the NORSU community commend the progress, while there were some others who did not even care to give a single note.

There is the ongoing construction of the College of Nursing, Dentistry, Pharmacy, and Allied Health Sciences building. Also, the offering of two new courses last school year: Doctor in Dental Medicine and Bachelor of Science in Mining Engineering. However, the latter was temporarily closed since it attracted only a few enrollees. An addition is the beautification of the NORSU grounds with the repainting of the buildings.

It may either be big or small improvements, but the institution has made its part to create a new environment for the NORSU community. As most of the said ventures were successful, there are another new set of progress that NORSU community will start embracing for the next few days.

The university administration’s line-up of projects this school year are the renovation and construction of a three-storey College of Business and Accountancy (CBA) building, an Amphitheater, a religious activity center or a Chapel, a two-storey food building, and the roofing of the open courts. The Amphitheater and the Chapel will be situated in front of CBA, west side of the NORSU Cultural Complex and at the back of the College of Tourism and Hospitality Management building. University President Henry A. Sojor, in an interview, shared that any religious activity can be done in the Chapel.

The two-storey food building will include the seven-unit food stalls located at the ground floor and the Engineer’s, Supply’s, Bids and Awards Committee’s/Technical Working Group’s, and Evening Vocational Courses’ offices that will be positioned in the second floor of the said building. Sojor also related that with the said project, the neatness of the university will be improved since everything will be in place this time.

From all of the projects of the institution for this school year, it only provides that NORSU has been stepping on from one ladder to another – higher and higher. Subsequently, these plans will add dominance and prestige of the school since it builds up growth of the institution and at the end, the stakeholders will benefit from the said development. It’s quite a big challenge at first to provide some of the many needs of the NORSU community especially for the students. But despite all the odds, the institution remained firm and established to provide not just quality education but also a one-of-a-kind security and tenure.

But since NORSU has been improving a time now, most Norsunians and the watchful NORSU community were already hoping that the needs in facilities and equipment will be catered as well in the near future – as soon as today. Students were even claiming that if not with hard work and dedication to pursue their goals in life, things would have not fall into place – relating to Norsunians who top exams. Consequently, since it is a known fact that NORSU has delinquency in facilities and equipment, it should also have been addressed.

If then the administration has appropriated a big amount for building new structures for the university, it might as well be better if they could also supplement the requests of the students with their demand on facilities and equipment, and allocate some for the said appeal.

It is assumed that there are still some other set of projects that will be implemented in the next few years for the improvement of the institution and the betterment of the NORSU community as a whole. But still, there are other important needs that supposedly been addressed by the administration by now. The projects are a commendable one though. Kudos to more improvements!

Vague policies

2010-07-25T08:32:00.000-07:00

By Arvin V. Rodriguez

(Vol. XXVIII No. 3, Editorial Cartoon)

Vague policies

Many rules and policies of Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) have been discussed and debated by most students, faculty members, and other staff many times already, and even the outside-of-the-campus community has participated in the discussion, took different actions, and questioned the indifferent moves and sanctions of the university administration and authorities. But of all the parties concerned, students are constantly the vulnerable ones to inconsistent and prejudicial implementations of such school regulations.

Most Norsunians are relatively annoyed with the confusing [past and current] policies of the school. Some of these policies are enforced without giving the students enough information – leaving students hanging and defenseless on what to do.

Like the case of the proper dressing attire policy, it drew adverse reactions from the NORSU community especially the students. The confiscation of IDs for renewal and the bag inspection from the security department have also earned different impressions not just from Norsunians but the local community as well. It was and never been announced to students that such rules will be implemented. There weren’t even posted announcements.

The security personnel claimed that they were tasked to execute certain policies directed from the administration. However, the confiscation of IDs was not directed from the administration but merely the idea of the chief security officer that made students asking “why”.

According to the student handbook, no one of any authority can confiscate any personal belonging of the students. Then and there, there is already a manifestation of abridging the right of the students. Is the execution of the policy helped the students to acquire a new ID though they have the choice to have it renewed or not? It might also be a good idea that students will no longer pay for renewing of IDs.

Yes, the chief security is correct with his reason that it is for the students to avail of the renewal of IDs since they are paying that every school year that’s why he confiscated the IDs. On the other hand, the Students Affairs Office who is in charge in facilitating the renewal of IDs is defending students.

It also upholds the right of the students to whether obtain a new ID or not. If that’s the case, why are students paying it every school year when in fact they are given the option? It might as well be a good idea that students will only pay if they wanted a new ID.

Meanwhile, Norsunians have also abided the policy on the random bag inspection. Security personnel will check bags if there are food and all related stuff inside of which are not permitted to be taken inside. For what reason? Cleanliness – was the main rational.

The administration assumed that students will only litter the plastic wrappers that were accumulated with the food anywhere inside the school premises. So if students will buy foods inside, will they not litter it anywhere in the campus? Will they politely throw it in the garbage can? How will that be sure? Some will perhaps, but students are just students.

To some extent, the administration has the point. However, if students could no longer avail of the costly meals in the cafeteria or the food court, do they have no right to bring a packed meal inside? It would sound too insensitive if they don’t have. The administration might as well provide food for the students if they will not permit bringing of such in the campus.

Such were some of the many confusing policies of NORSU that baffles the students at no end.

Strict but inconsistent

2010-07-05T02:11:00.000-07:00

By Paul Anthony M. Eso

(Vol. XXVIII No. 2, Editorial Cartoon)

Strict but inconsistent

Another school year has opened, but still some of the many rules and regulations in Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) are still left unclear, not apparent, and even unapproved. Consequently, there were no consistent implementations of such policies from authorities concerned. As a result, the NORSU community has raised their eyebrows to the said personnel because of the way the policy is executed. There were even confrontations and misunderstandings between students and authorities.

One of the policies that gained most attention is the proper dressing attire. The Student Government of Dumaguete City I has revised the dress code for several times last school year. But with several revisions, the policy is still not yet approved until this very day. However, the security department of the university is implementing the previous policy.

The office of the security matters shared the dress code that provides the proper dressing attire with specifications addressing to all concerned that says “no wearing of short pants, sleeveless, spaghetti strap and tubes, slippers, sandals below two inches, and sando shirts; and third sex is not allowed to wear sandals, pedals, tube-top, and spaghetti strap blouses.”

The chief security officer once revealed in an interview last school year that the said policy will strictly be enforced not only to students but also to administrators, faculty members, and practically all the staff. The security department even clarified that the policy will have to be observed not only on weekdays but also on weekends excluding those who will have their clean-up drive.

The rule on the proper dressing attire is a little bit clear from the said point although the policy is not yet approved by the university administration. However, heating arguments between students and the security personnel and even between some bigwigs and the latter occasionally broke out.

The common cause of the dispute is that the concerned students and university staff are not following certain policies. But Norsunians reasoned out that the policy is not properly disseminated since there are no appropriate announcements posted.

Some of the security personnel also refuted that they are only following orders from the office of the security matters. If then the policy on the proper dressing attire is simply implemented without further squabble, it would just have been smooth sailing. However, there are university guards who were too harsh in the execution of such rule. They tend to frighten students from entering if they will not follow the policy. But is that how the policies are implemented?

There were other events that a security person allowed a student to enter the university premises even without following some of the rules while other students were not permitted. It only suggests that they were either considerate to people they know or they were simply careless on their work.

On the other hand, it would have been better if they could just simply ask the students to obey the rules calmly without hostility. But they simply brag themselves being the security personnel – a great authority that no one should ever violate. What a great power, but have they ever been responsible with their actions?

Moreover, university guards’ schedule varies from time to time, and it seems that some policies vary as well from one personnel to another. Were they ever told the same points from their superiors? Norsunians even noticed that there are some security personnel who were strict but inconsistent with the implementation of the rules.

Round up of changes

2010-06-23T07:50:00.000-07:00

By Cheeno Luang

(Vol. XXVIII No. 1, Editorial Cartoon)

Apparently, most neophytes were too religious and excited to attend the first week of classes in Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) Main Campus I and II, and the System as a whole while many continuing and returning students did not even bother to set foot in class. Such are amongst the many noticeable episodes in the first few days of schooling in the institution. Aside from all of the first day blues and anticipations, there are other obvious sights and notable events that caught the attention of many students and even the community while producing different impressions and remarks.

One of the most noticeable sights in the university that dragged different reactions is the color red that is painted and highlighted on most buildings in the university. At first, it turned out to look awkward since the main colors of the buildings is believed to be based mainly from the NORSU hymn which is azure blue and lily white. The NORSU community felt anew given the idea that they are not used to the color red.

From the opening of the main gate will embrace colors white, blue, yellow, and red in the College of Law building when entering. University President Henry A. Sojor reasoned that said colors are actually based and inspired from the hue of the Philippine flag. However, Buildings and Grounds Supervisor Benjamin Valencia added that such were based in an old Chinese belief that color red is a sign of good luck and fortune.

But were those hues appropriate colors for a school building? Anyhow, no matter how colorful the buildings will be, what is more important is the promise of the acquisition of knowledge that the institution will provide to its students. Alongside the changes of the institution is the new enrollment system. It was first put into implementation this semester with College of Industrial Technology (CIT) as pilot college. The end result was claimed to be a success since long queues were lessened because encoding of subjects was done in the said college.

The plan was supposedly a departmental enrollment system where encoding will be done this time in the respective colleges. But requirements like computers, sufficient manpower, and proper venue were not met by most colleges that was why the first plan was cancelled. Inquiries were raised: What happened to the many computers promised to be bought? Why not mobilize the many students and other faculty and staff for the manpower? Why not utilize vacant spaces of the respective colleges’ buildings? These are only queries that need to be answered and at a point a suggestion for the concerned officials to do something. The only thing that remains is the hope that the departmental enrollment system will aid the longtime problem of queuing.

Another transformation of NORSU is the changing of the name of then College of Technology Education (CTE) now to College of Tourism and Hospitality Management (CTHM). Together with the new name of the college is the transfer of courses – BS Tourism from the College of Arts and Sciences is now part of the CTHM programs while then CTE technology courses namely Bachelor of Technology Education, BS Aviation Maintenance, and Diploma of Technology are now moved to the CIT. According to Sojor, the transfer of courses was set so that concerned colleges can offer relevant programs. He continued that this will also help students acquire better skills since facilities and equipment of courses are available at the new assigned college.

If transferring of courses can provide students better acquirement of knowledge and skills, why is it that some of the technology students from then CTE now CTHM are already having problems that include difficulty in room assignment, conflict in subject schedules, and professors to teach their major subjects? It might as well be a good move if the administration had prepared some plans before implementing such action.

However, some of the many changes in the university are worth-praising and commendable. These items might have negative effects, as expected in every new implementation; but there are still positive outcomes as well. What matters most is how these changes are being held, handled, and addressed properly. More to go with round up of changes!

Hopefully

2010-04-22T00:25:00.000-07:00

By Paul Anthony Eso

(Vol. XXVII No. 29, Editorial Cartoon)

Hopefully

Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) has been known as a university that has the longest queues during enrollment. This is because of two reasons: the large number of students and the poor enrollment system.

Enrollment in NORSU has always been spiced up with complaints and irritations since time immemorial. Well, who would not? Early in the morning, the closed entrance of some offices in the university are already flocked with stressed faces of patient and impatient students who sacrificed waking up at dawn and going to school just to gain a front turn in a long line. Complaints and murmurs would usually arise. At the height of the grumbles and mumbles, some personnel come in late, move like there is still ample time to chill and relax, and leave the office early with plenty of reasons in hand. In the lateness of the hour, they begin marking and stapling papers and unnecessary documents and tell the students to go to the other line for completion. Outside, one can hear the eerie voices of babbling and cursing mouths due to the inconsideration and favoritism of some criminology students and staff on-duty. Others also exchange unpleasant words after allowing a late friend to insert in the never-ending line.

Unfortunately, though most students come to school before sunrise, it is next to impossible for them to be enrolled on the same day because after finishing one long line, other long queues await the following day.

These scenarios had been the common setting during the past enrollment period. Every Norsunian endured hardships just to be enrolled on time.

In the past years, the Office of the University Registrar has been working so hard to bring a stress-free and a better enrollment system for the university. And indeed, improvements were seen in the past years. From the manual enrollment system which could turn everyone impatient because of the seemingly endless long queues, it leveled up into a full-swing computerized enrollment system. The computerized scheme had somehow made the enrollment of this university a little better compared to the past years.

But just as when we thought the computerized enrollment is already the answer, we then realized that it was only better than the past systems but it was not good enough for this university. Problems and complaints continue to arise. Lines are still long. This is because computerized enrollment could only gratify 1, 200 students every day.

University Registrar Reymil Cadapan, upon seeing the annual dilemma of the students during enrollment, proposed a departmental enrollment system to the NORSU administration which could not only help lessen the burdensome sight of complaining students but will also help deans evaluate students’ grades easily. This idea got a big ‘yes’ from the university president with a word that the departmental enrollment system will be implemented next enrollment period. Also, the deans and the students responded positively to Cadapan’s suggestion and promised for their support, seeing that the whole enrollment issue has disturbed and brought discomfort to many.

After years of witnessing the same problem during the enrollment, hopefully NORSU will have a good enrollment system this time. If the departmental enrollment system will push through, it is expected that the coming enrollment will have a smooth flow.

Hopefully, it will be realized and give Norsunians an easier enrollment. A better enrollment system will create a new positive name for the school. A better enrollment system will lessen the students’ burdens. Hopefully, the departmental enrollment is already the answer for the quest of a better enrollment system.

A touch of apathy and ignorance

2010-04-22T00:04:00.000-07:00

By Cheeno Luang

(Vol. XXVII No. 28, Editorial Cartoon)

A touch of apathy and ignorance

The recently concluded Student Government of Dumaguete City (SGDC) I and II national and local elections have demonstrated the indifference of the majority of Norsunians to select their leaders. The votes for every candidate in different positions were tallied and elected officials were already announced. But, the bigger number of Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) student population in SGDCI totally snubbed the polls.

Unlike SGDCII elections, SGDCI had registered a lower turnout of voters. MCI Committee on Elections (Comelec) results revealed that there was only 33.91 percent or 1,872 of the 5,522 SGDCI student population that have exercised their right of suffrage. Of the five colleges permitted to vote, the February 26 national and local polls became a subject of skepticism because most students just ignored the elections – if that was such.

One of the perennial problems of the SGDCI for so long a time now is the less participated, if not snubbed, elections - an election that is as silent as a desert, an election that never was. Most of the local elected officials were uncontested and if opposed, there were only two or three candidates that vied for the different electoral positions. However, for the SG topmost seats, there were two candidates for the presidency, while the vice-presidential position was uncontested.

More than that, the College of Nursing, Dentistry, Pharmacy, and Allied Health Sciences (CNDPAHS) had no candidates in any of the national and local electoral positions and in the end, have not cast their votes. According to Comelec, the students have no interest to join in student politics because most of them were concentrating in their studies.

Questions were raised if the information-dissemination campaign for the polls were done. But, Comelec claimed that they have done their part in circulating posters on bulletin boards of every college that contain information on the filing of candidacy and the date of the election. The commission cited in defense that most Norsunians just did not mind reading the announcement. The Comelec added that many students have no concern on exercising their right to vote.

On the other hand, there was an electoral forum conducted. It is aimed to educate students on the voting process and to know their bets more. But then again, it became an election campaign. Most of the candidates, as expected, laid their platforms and plans.

In such case, there were reasons why those things happened– reasons like no support from the faculty and staff, and even the candidates’ families. Subsequently, outgoing student-leaders have not come to think of leadership training to their probable successors. It just proposes that some of the incumbent officials have no concern to what will happen to the next administration. Others might also claim that they have done one, but the query remains – have they done it smoothly and honestly?

This only proves that Norsunians have no interest on SG matters and affairs. On the other side of the coin, most students just complain and only criticize the SG administration. But have they come to realize that they chose that student-leader? Or have they ever remembered to cast a vote? Realizations come in the end but the problem comes over and over again if students will not make a move by participating in SG elections.

CNDPAHS students might be busy with their studies but are the other colleges not? If a simple casting of vote becomes a problem in SGDC, how much more outside the school – the Philippine political battle? If students could not exercise their right of suffrage in NORSU, how could they ever go for the May 2010 polls?

Library blues

2010-04-22T00:03:00.000-07:00

By Christian Edu Villegas

(Vol. XXVII No. 27, Editorial Cartoon)

Library blues

At the start of the second semester, various offices and sectors in Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) were disconcerted upon hearing the news that the number of student assistants (SA) was trimmed down due to the meager funds of the Student Government (SG). One of the sectors that was badly affected by the reduction of the number of SAs is the university library – from 17, it went down to 12.

In effect, this has led to various burdens on the part of the library goers. Aside from the fact that they cannot be accommodated easily because of the lack of SAs to attend to their needs, there is also no guarantee that valuables left at the baggage counter will be strictly guarded. Most of the time, because of lack of SAs, the baggage counter is left unattended.

University Librarian Pablita Munar apparently blames the problem to the decreased number of SAs assigned in the library this semester. Munar pointed out that with the current number of SAs, they cannot handle their work well.

Munar’s claim is indeed true. The poor service of the library is the result of the scarcity of manpower. With only few SAs hired this semester for the library, more work is pelted on the remaining SAs; they cannot maximize their assigned tasks because new errands are to be accomplished, thus leading to stacks of pending works. Also, considering the number of library goers, the 12 SAs would surely find it difficult to accommodate all the students flocking, especially during the examination week. Moreover, it should also be considered that SAs are students, too, and they cannot devote all of their time to the library.

In defense, Student Government of Dumaguete City I (SGDCI) President Christopher Don Catacutan answered that the SG should not be blamed for the problems that the library is currently suffering. Catacutan said that before the second semester started, he already informed the university librarian that they will be decreasing the number of SAs assigned in the area because of meager funds. Thus, according to him, it is already the librarian’s full responsibility to look forward to its consequences. Catacutan opined that Munar should have screened well the SA applicants so that she can set the SA’s vacant time for duty. He asserted that hiring SAs is only one of their projects and that they cannot spend the entire SG fund for the said project.

On that note, Catacutan is right. Funding SAs in various offices is only one of their projects, and they also have other projects to attend to. With their insufficient funds, it is only right that they will hire less SAs – for if they will still hire more, they will suffer the consequences like that of the previous administration’s where some SAs were unpaid.

Looking at the problems currently suffered by the library, both parties are right in defending their sides. Munar was right in saying that the poor service of the library is because of the SAs number reduction. Catacutan is also right in saying that the blame should not be put to them because they are only hiring SAs according to their available funds.

With both parties being right, so what now? Will the library problems remain as they are? Having no one to bear the blame, will the library’s poor service continue? The school year is already ending, will these problems continue to haunt until next school year?

Looking for appropriate solutions to the problem may seem out of reach, but if well planned and deliberated, it will lead to impressive results. Maybe, it is now time for the university administration to start thinking of hiring more full-time personnel in the library so that its manpower will not largely depend on its SAs. Also, it is now time for the next SG administration to start assessing that in the coming school year, they must regulate their unnecessary projects like pageant and beautification, allocate more funds in hiring SAs, and assign more SAs especially in the library, because it is an important spot – being the avenue for learning – for most Norsunians.

The library is a very important tool for Norsunians. Its problems go to the students as burden. May authorities work together to put up a worry-free and efficient NORSU library.

A fiasco

2010-04-22T00:02:00.000-07:00

By Paul Anthony Eso

(Vol. XXVII No. 26, Editorial Cartoon)

A fiasco

The inter-school live band competition dubbed as “Chaos of Love” which was organized by the Student Government of Dumaguete City I (SGDCI) turned out to be a one big failure. The SGDCI headed by Christopher Don Catacutan may declare that the recent “Chaos of Love” band competition was still a success despite the poor crowd, yet the fact remains that the main goal of the event was not achieved.

When Catacutan first declared that they would stage a live band competition which will be called Chaos, in early interviews with him this school year, he emphasized that the purpose of the activity is to build the Norsunian spirit which, according to him, is slowly deteriorating and could no longer be felt in the university unlike before. He said that Chaos would be a great project to bring back to life the weakening spirit of most Norsunians.

There were two Chaos staged this school year. The first Chaos was a live band competition featuring different colleges and satellite campuses of Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) and was staged on October 2, 2009. The second Chaos was dubbed as ‘Chaos of Love’, an inter-school live band competition for the universities and colleges of Dumaguete City in which NORSU’s representative was the winner of the previous Chaos. The second Chaos was staged last February 19, and the very poor turnout of audience is a solid indicator that it was a flop.

To recall, Catacutan first scheduled the second Chaos in November last year just in time for the Founders Week Celebration. SG only moved it to February this year because, according to him, Chaos needs ‘heavy marketing’ which by that time, they could not do because they were focusing on staging Mister and Miss NORSU 2010 pageant.

Now here are the questions.

Firstly, where was the strengthening of the Norsunian spirit during the activity when there were only few Norsunians who participated during the event? And those few means, it can only be counted by the fingertips. Secondly, where was this ‘heavy marketing’ that Catacutan said? Was the few audience and few Norsunians already the product of their so-called ‘heavy marketing’? More Norsunians and other students could have watched the event because the weekend was extended that time since there was no class the following Monday.

Some students claim that the Chaos was a flop because of the poor dissemination of information about the event which Catacutan denied. According to the SGDCI president, SG did its part and even went as far as advertising “Chaos of Love” in a local radio station. Sure thing they advertised it in a radio station, but what about Norsunians? Do all Norsunians know about it? Was their posted advertisement enough?

The bottom line here is that SG could have advertised it first among all Norsunians before going into the whole Dumaguete City community. After all, Chaos was not only staged as a mere fund-raising activity-it was supposed to uplift the Norsunian spirit.

Obviously, SG made their goal a success during the first Chaos. It can be accepted if they will say that the first Chaos was a success, but the recently staged Chaos? No way.

Catacutan was probably shallow when he said that it was successful because they gained a P5,000-profit. What has the profit got to do with Norsunian spirit? Given that there were ‘some’ who attended and witnessed the event, but a few number of crowd, most of which are people from the participant-bands, was still not enough for the Norsunian spirit to be uplifted.

Let us admit it: “Chaos of Love” was definitely a flop no matter what the head of the SG might have said. The few people who were there and the contestants could honestly attest to that.

On promises

2010-04-21T01:46:00.000-07:00

By Ren Angelo Elevera

(Vol. XXVII No. 25, Editorial Cartoon)

On promises

It is only a matter of time and school year 2009-2010, like its predecessors, will be added to the pages of Negros Oriental State University’s (NORSU) colorful history. It is only a matter of time and the most awaited graduation rites for this year’s graduates will take place. Also, it is only a matter of time and the tenure of all Student Government positions in the university will end.

Yes, it is only about a matter of time for incumbent Student Government of Dumaguete City I (SGDCI) President Christopher Don Catacutan before he vacates his seat for incoming SG President-elect Mary Dawn Valencia who will assume the position come June this year. But the outgoing SG president is apparently not worried with the little time that is left of his administration.

Matter-of-factly, Catacutan is even confident that he will be able to realize his remaining projects before the curtain falls for his administration. His promising endeavors include the construction of a new building along the Automotive vicinity at the College of Industrial Technology (CIT) where SG’s executive branch office will be housed; repairing of the Legislative office and providing them with a session hall; landscaping of the areas beside the Administration building and near the power supply and the Tablet of Fame for the planned mini-park; a prayer room for all religions to be situated in the present SG national office; and the realization of the long-delayed mini-theater project of which he promised to build last school year when he was still the governor of the College of Arts and Sciences.

No doubt, these projects, if ever materialized, are indeed beneficial to the whole studentry by and large. But the question on whether or not these projects will be realized is one big thing we all have to be worried about. With only a few remaining days to go before the second semester closes, we cannot be blamed if we start believing that all of these promises will never be translated into deeds.

If we can recall, the SGDCI president promised the students that he will put up a bell system in the university, organize an all-black university acquaintance party, and pursue with the mini-theater project when he assumed the presidency at the start of the school year. But apparently, all of these projects are nowhere to be found hitherto. Catacutan reasoned out that the university acquaintance was not pursued because the sponsors of the event had earlier withdrawn their support, while he promised last semester to really continue with the mini-theater project before his tenure expires. In a recent interview with him, he vowed another promise saying that he will pursue with the almost two-year delayed mini-theater this summer vacation. He said that the P200, 000 budget for the project has been available and that the construction will start this summer. The project, according to him, will be erected on the greenhouse area located near the open courts.

Now, if we are going to believe that, it means that before NORSU opens its gates for another semester in June, we shall expect that the said mini-theater, together with all of his pending projects, is already visible in the campus and available for students’ use.

Nonetheless, reality tells us to believe the other way. If we look at the real situation, Catacutan is promising us big infrastructure projects such as the construction of the new building at the CIT premises and the mini-theater—these are major construction projects that cannot be done in just a few months. Of course, these projects translate to hundreds of thousands—we thought the SG is hiring only few student assistants because of its meager funding, how come they have such amount?

One more thing, the Omnibus Election Code of the Philippines prohibits all government office to pursue with their projects 45 days before the day of the elections. This means that if Catacutan cannot start with the project before the implementation of the election ban, he has to postpone it until after elections. In which case, he cannot stand with his promise to finish all his pending projects before summer ends.

Indeed, time is running fast like a ticking bomb for Catacutan. With only a few more months to go before June, it is now a big challenge for him to realize all of his promises before he bequeaths the throne to Valencia. So the question now is: Will Catacutan beat his deadline? The answer is: He must if he wants a good review in NORSU’s history.

Let us wait and see.

Good news!

2010-02-18T01:45:00.000-08:00

By Cheeno Luang

(Vol. XXVII No. 24, Editorial Cartoon)

Good news!

On a cold morning of February 1, a different euphoria enveloped the whole Main Campus I of Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) after everyone was greeted with the good news written by the university president himself on the bulletin board. It was a news that immediately contained in forwarded chain text messages and social networking shoutouts of most Norsunians. It was a news that instantly became a talk in the university. It was a news that again, made every Norsunian proud of being enrolled in this university of poor but deserving students.

The good news is: NORSU’s BS Nursing (BSN) and BS Pharmacy (BS Pharm) pioneering graduates registered a very impressive performance in the recent Nurse and Pharmacist Licensure Examinations. It is beyond what was expected.

In the November 2009 Nurse Licensure Examination alone, NORSU registered a 100 percent passing rate after all of its 17 pioneering graduates successfully made it. This is too impressive and remarkable considering that the national passing rate of the licensure examination is only 39.73 percent, having only 37, 527 passers out of 94, 462 takers.

Moreover, in the January 2010 Pharmacist Licensure Examination, five out of the eight pioneering BS Pharm graduates of NORSU successfully passed the exam gaining a 63 percent passing rate which is 20 percent higher than the national passing rate. The national passing rate of the said examination was 44 percent with 1, 091 takers and only 481 passers. Adding to the good news, NORSU is now the newest pharmacy school in the Philippines after it ranked eighth nationwide and third in the Visayas among the top performing pharmacy schools based on its overall performance in the licensure examination.

Such achievements, especially from first time takers of both professions, are truly unexpected and remarkable. It is something that deserves a standing ovation paired with continuous applause from every one of us.

But like what is often said, good fruits shall only come from good trees. Therefore it is only proper that our ceaseless congratulations be extended to the entire College of Nursing, Dentistry, Pharmacy, and Allied Health Sciences (CNDPAHS) for such a job well done. Kudos to the dean, assistant dean, faculty and staff, and students of CNDPAHS for bringing such an overwhelming pride to every Norsunian. Our only hope is that you continue to impress us every year.

At any rate, if there is one thing that this good news tells us, aside of course from the goosebumps it brings, it is the very fact that we, the poor but deserving Norsunians, can absolutely do more with less. It is the fact that although our university is still young, its graduates can also do what graduates of long-established universities can. It is the fact that albeit NORSU is a state university, its graduates are not far from the graduates of private universities. And our latest achievements in the Nursing and Pharmacy professions as well as being hailed as the newest pharmacy school in the country are more than enough evidences to prove such claim. As what University President Henry A. Sojor succinctly states: “the poor can rise up through this university.”

Moreover, another lesson learned here is that the less equipment and facilities that this university has, is not a hindrance for anyone to succeed—although it will be of great help if the university can provide more. After all, if we can do well with less, we can, by all means, do better with more.

But otherwise, let us rejoice for this good news. Kudos NORSU!

Be cautious

2010-02-17T04:11:00.000-08:00

By Ren Angelo Elevera

(Vol. XXVII No. 23, Editorial Cartoon)

Be cautious

With the kind of era we are in today, it is without a doubt that we can easily find an instant friend. With just a single click, we can immediately find a date. Even with just a simple text message, we can easily make friends with someone we barely even know. But with everything easy for access, we should all be extra careful, especially in meeting new people because we might not know that that someone could be the very person who will send us to our graveyards.

Just weeks ago, Jayfel Rayoso, a Mass Communication student of Silliman University, was reported dead after allegedly meeting with his textmate. Reports said that Rayoso brought with him an amount of P20,000 which he just withdrew from a local bank before meeting his textmate-friend. Five days after he disappeared, his body, which was allegedly dumped, was found in a creek near Barangay Isugan, Bacong on January 12.

We do not really know what happened before Rayoso’s death. We do not know whether his textmate-friend knew that he had brought a big amount of money with him. We do not know if he happened to mention about the money to his textmate. We do not know how his corpse reached Bacong. Yes, we do not know about these things, but only one thing is clear at the moment: we should not trust people whom we only met through phones or internet.

Perhaps, most youths will not agree with this idea of not trusting persons they have known via cellphones and internet only. Nowadays, teenagers most likely prefer the idea of having textmates and callmates because they think that it would be fun befriending someone whom they have not yet met in person. Indeed, the idea is exciting; it implies a sense of mysteriousness in it.

In fact, not only the youths find the idea exciting. Even those who are of right age also get hooked to it sometimes.

Most, if not all, seem to be under the spell of the present technology. We all get hooked to the things that technology offers to the point that we even get to depend our short-time happiness to it. Many of us, especially the young ones, depend on cellphones, being the most common communication tool among teens (according to research), in looking for new friends and most of all, love ones.

The recent incident that happened to Rayoso is one proof that meeting people whom we only know through text is not safe. No matter how sweet a person may sound in the phone, it is still not an assurance that he is a good person.

Rayoso is just one of the thousands of students who finds technology a tool for building a relationship. He may not be a Norsunian, but his passing is one big proof that strangers are surely not to be fully trusted. Perhaps, what happened to Rayoso will serve as a lesson for all of us.

Befriending new people is not a bad thing, yet it is also not a bad thing to be cautious in meeting them, especially if we only know them through phone or internet.

Let us not wait for the same incident to happen to a Norsunian before we become extra cautious.

The Norsunians’ year

2010-01-25T21:06:00.000-08:00

By Christian Edu Villegas

(Vol. XXVII No. 22, Editorial Cartoon)

The Norsunians’ year

Weeks ago, every one of us in this planet, welcomed the year 2010, the Year of the Metal Tiger, with optimism and high hopes. It’s been already weeks since we started our respective journey on this new year – new stories, new adventures, and new pages to fill another chapter of history. It’s been already a while when we finally left and closed that chapter which was filled with eye-popping surprises – the year 2009.

Looking back, the year 2009 had been another healthy chapter in the history of Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) as a young and budding university, struggling to be a dynamic higher education institution of preference in the Visayas and Mindanao. In the year that was, NORSU had another period of commendable transformation.

NORSU-Mabinay Campus was opened; new teachers and faculty members were added to the university’s teaching and working force; IP cameras were installed for tighter security; the ground floor of the College of Nursing, Dentistry, Pharmacy and Allied Health Sciences building was opened for the students’ use; a Doctor in Dental Medicine course was offered; the university grounds were beautified; the mock ship for the College of Maritime Education students was finally furnished and was launched for students’ practical hands-on; more foreign students enrolled here – these were only some of the remarkable improvements embraced by the Norsunian community last year.

Along with these transformations were achievements that added significant pages to the history of NORSU. The year 2009, just like in the past, was another year of achievements for Norsunians, especially in topping national licensure examinations. It’s a year of adding laurels to the university and extending the long list of Norsunian achievers in the history.

To recall, Childrico Caingcoy, a graduate of BS Marine Engineering, landed in the second spot of the written phase of the Marine OIC Examination with a score of 87.75 percent. Jessie James Lasconia, a BS Geology graduate, ranked 9th in the August 2009 Geologist Licensure (Board) Examination. Another remarkable achievement was that of Dan Jerome Saycon Barrera, a graduate of NORSU-Bais Campuses, who ranked 3rd in the September 2009 Criminology Licensure Examination.

These accomplishments which highlighted the year that was are pages of history that surely each Norsunian will be proud of. It is very inspiring that despite the evident lack of facilities and equipment in the university, Norsunians excel as one of the best and finest across the nation.

We finally bid adieu to those pages and those are nothing now but parts of history. The chapter had ended and here goes the university and the whole NORSU family paving pages of another chapter to NORSU’s history. As we look back to last year and continue journeying, it is not bad to hope for this year to have an increase in the record of achievers. It is not bad to cross our fingers that this year, like last year, would be another chapter of remarkable achievements for Norsunians.

Moreover, it is not bad to hope that somehow, some longings of the students for equipment and facilities would finally be realized. It is not bad to pray that hopefully, the students’ concerns would be the main priority this year because if Norsunians did more with less, they could do more with adequate facilities and equipment.

Norsunians are known as the Tigers. May this Year of the Metal Tiger be the Norsunians’ Year!

Election and corruption

2010-01-25T20:59:00.000-08:00

By Paul Anthony Eso

(Vol. XXVII No. 21, Editorial Cartoon)

Election and corruption

The circus is once again in town.

With the national poll set in May, it is very apparent that the election circus is now almost engulfing the whole local and national atmosphere. Election campaign jingles like the much sung ‘Nakaligo ka na ba sa dagat ng basura’ are now redundantly played on television and radio stations. Campaign posters, with the candidates’ smiling faces, are starting to sprout everywhere. Different fora and debates about the candidates’ platform and background were staged and were witnessed by the Filipino people in the past days – and more are to be staged and may be witnessed in the coming days.

Popularity matters in the Philippine election that is why, candidates are now spending millions for their political ads. Leadership and personal background also matter that is why, every candidate now seems to be digging everything in their respective coffer to show proofs of their luring achievements and pictures of their charitable deeds like helping people in a flood scene, offering food to street children, launching program for Mother Nature, and the like that has dramatic soap opera features. Every candidate now seems to be ‘nagbubuhat ng sariling bangko’ just to lure the Filipino masses.

Popularity, leadership skills, and personal background are the traditional factors that are considered by most (responsible) Filipino voters before voting. But, if there is one more factor that should be secured first above the rest, it should be the ‘incorruptible’ factor – a voter must vote for the candidate who is not corrupt, a candidate who is strongly determined to fight corruption.

The problem about corruption has been hounding the government since time immemorial. As the May poll comes, it also means that there is a chance that it can be ended, or at least, minimized by electing an incorruptible leader.

These days, the issue about corruption is already alarming and at these times, it appears that it is not just a problem of perception but an actuality. Despite the countless corruption issues exposed in the past, corruption cases are increasing not only in number but also in the amount of money involved.

What is also alarming is the fact that among the reported big cases of corruption in the government, not one was given proper action by the government, despite the efforts of whistleblowers and concerned groups. It is a sad reality that corruption has freely spread its roots and branches in the Philippine government because the current administration itself has done nothing to cut it. Well, how could they afford to cut it if it would mean cutting their own roots and branches?

If only corruption were not present in Philippine government today, the life of every Filipino would have been, at least, a little easier. But this social illness, instead of being eliminated by our leaders in the past, has gone far until the present and has even worsened – freely and healthily. It’s been there growing sturdy because our leaders allowed it.

Corruption these days may have turned into the sturdiest tree in Philippine government, but it is not yet too late to cut that tree down. It may appear impossible, but we can still do something about it.

This coming election is our chance to revive the fight against corruption. Let us choose an incorruptible leader.

Take part

2009-12-09T00:39:00.001-08:00

By Cheeno Luang
(Vol. XXVII No. 19, Editorial Cartoon)

Take part

The most anticipated event of the whole Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) system this school year is now kicking — the 82nd Founders Week Celebration, bearing the theme “Industry and Hard Work for Productivity.” Efforts for a successful Founders Week Celebration can now be felt in the atmosphere and even at the thick of the preparations.

Early this semester, before everything was being put up, the League of Student Organizations headed the clean up drive at the back of the Science and Technology Building – the area which was dubbed by many as the “mini Payatas” of NORSU because of the piles of garbage and other scrap materials. Days passed, the ugly space was cleared. Now, the place is transformed into a clean area as 19 booths were built on it.

Other booths of different student organizations are also found in different areas of the campus. As observed, the registered student organizations were in the busy clock of constructing their booths in the past days. Heavy rains did not stop their eagerness to build their homes to stay during the occasion.

With the remaining number of hours left, colleges and satellite campuses are also at the thick of their preparations—from simple props to detailed costumes; from easy hand and foot steps to splits, tumbling, and powerful moves; from extra characters to the stars of the presentations — all for the activities that they will be participating in during the anticipated event. Organizers of the major events of the week such as the Mister and Miss NORSU Pageant, Cheerleading competitions, and Hugyawan Festival are trying harder to present nothing but the best. To note, Hugyawan this year promises another kind of fun as it is set to feature the hilarious encounter with the most popular Hollywood and Pinoy superheroes.

But while others are exerting too much effort and time, other students are also having their own plans and focus. Some are planning or have already returned to their hometowns for a weeklong vacation. Some thought that Founders Week Celebration means no classes – some days to detach from their student lives. Some thought that the occasion is only for talented and confident students to stage their skills on various competitions; for organization leaders and active members to head and organize the events; and as well, for those who are in the position to make the celebration possible.

Let every Norsunian be reminded that the Founders Week Celebration is to commemorate the existence of NORSU. It serves as an instrument for us, Norsunians, to pay tribute to this university—this university that has provided us with the kind of education that we need for us to have a better future. Thus, let us not take this celebration for granted. Let us show our gratitude to this university by cooperating and by giving our hundred percent support for the weeklong celebration.

Justice

2009-12-09T00:38:00.001-08:00

By Christian Edu B. Villegas
(Vol. XXVII No. 18, Editorial Cartoon)

Justice

Days ago, while the whole Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) system was in the thick of preparation for its 82nd Founders Week Celebration, the whole Filipino nation was shocked with the news on the brutal killing of 64 persons (as of November 28), that include the wife of Buluan Vice Mayor Esmael Mangudadatu, his two sisters, lawyers, relatives, supporters, and some 31 media practitioners. The victims of the gruesome killings were mercilessly slaughtered in cold blood at the grassy hill of Barangay Salman in nearby Ampatuan town of Maguindanao .

Dubbed as the most spine-tingling massacre ever to happen in Philippine history, the news tore the hearts of all media practitioners and the people in the world because the most wicked killings did not only include innocent civilian supporters of the Mangudadatu clan but also 31 journalists – 31 innocent public servants who had nothing to do with the political rivalry between the Ampatuan and Mangudadatu clans, but were just there to chronicle the filing of the certificate of candidacy of Esmael for governor, through his wife, sisters, and lawyers.

What took place was an unimaginable crime that befell in the land of promise. The perpetrators were like demons and beasts. It was the most evil political and media carnage ever to have been perpetrated in the Philippines.

Circumstantial evidences are pointing to Maguindanao Governor Andal Ampatuan’s son, Datu Unsay Mayor Andal Ampatuan Jr., as the principal suspect in the gruesome massacre. He surrendered to the government, and appeared to have been handled with kid gloves and is now held under the custody of the National Bureau of Investigation. The state prosecutors have found sufficient evidence to recommend the filing of multiple murder charges against Andal Jr., among others cases.

But the question is: Why is it that the Arroyo administration seemed hesitant to use an iron hand in dealing with the suspects?

The Arroyo administration at first publicly offered, in what appeared to be sincere condolences to the families of the victims – condemning the carnage in the highest sense – and vowed to hail the perpetrators to the bar of justice. However, what have been said and promised has not been satisfactorily done.

It is noted that the Ampatuan clan was primarily instrumental in giving the late Fernando Poe Jr., who was very popular among Muslims in Mindanao, a zero vote in many towns in Maguindanao in the 2004 elections against Arroyo. In the 2007 senatorial election, the candidates of PGMA took an unbelievable 12-0 victory against the opposition in Maguindanao.

Obviously, PGMA owes a lot from the Ampatuans. In her statement published in Philippine Daily Inquirer, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Lorelei Fajardo said, “I don’t think the President’s friendship with Ampatuans will be severed… Just because they are in this situation doesn’t mean we will turn our backs on them… It doesn’t mean that they are no longer our friends, if ever they indeed committed the crime.”

Fajardo’s statement is enough to explain everything. It goes with the statement of Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Raul Gonzales who urged the government to go slow in arresting the suspected mass murderers. “If we use the iron hand on them, they might fight back… We should take precautions. These are not ordinary people,” Gonzales warned.

By these statements, it appears that the Ampatuans are extraordinary people by almost any measure. They control almost everything in the town and province of Maguindanao. They control the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. And worst, they have that clout to influence Malacañang, which had to be pushed by public opinion from both ends of the globe to act sensibly.

The outraged media people, media organizations, local and foreign institutions, are calling for immediate action from the government. The killings are way beyond every man’s thoughts and are extremely outrageous. The perpetrators are animals, not humans. The doers of this barbaric massacre must not be tolerated and should not go unpunished – even if they are administration’s allies, even if they are powerful. After all, nobody is above the law. The victims should be given justice and their deaths must not turn in vain, like other political scandals which were gradually forgotten with the change of time.
Justice should be served.

Another chapter

2009-12-09T00:37:00.001-08:00

By Ren Angelo Elevera
(Vol. XXVII No. 17, Editorial Cartoon)

Another chapter

The campus is again jam-packed with students rushing for their classes, or if not, finishing the last touches of the tiring enrollment. Classes are shortened and it seems like everyone is already at the height of the preparations for the 82nd Founders Anniversary Celebration of the Negros Oriental State University (NORSU). These and all, are implications that the first semester is now a part of the history, and a new chapter of our student life is unfolding. Indeed, time can spin almost unnoticed that here we are embracing this new chapter.

Looking back, the first semester had been a period of another transformation for NORSU in its quest to live up as a dynamic higher-education institution of preference in the Visayas and Mindanao. It was remarkable that the university tried to step a notch higher in that period of time by making big ventures. There was the offering of Doctor of Dental Medicine under the umbrella of College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences (now College of Nursing, Dentistry, Pharmacy, and Allied Health Sciences or CNDPAHS). The university also introduced BS Mining Engineering, but due to its few enrollees caused by lack of advertisement, it was temporarily set aside and will, perhaps, be offered in full swing next school year.

More than the offering of the new courses, the biggest step that the university had taken in the first semester was the opening of another satellite campus which is the NORSU-Mabinay Campus. With 349 student population and two rooms, the campus offered courses in criminology, agriculture, forestry, and industrial technology to the poor but deserving students of Mabinay and its neighboring places.

In terms of facilities and equipment, NORSU also leveled up. The mock ship for the College of Maritime Education students was finally furnished and was launched for students’ practical hands-on; the ground floor of the CNDPAHS Building was opened for students’ use; as well as, various beautification projects were made inside the university making it more presentable compared to its previous look.

Last semester, Norsunians also continued to shine, showing who and what kind of students this university has. Jessie James Lasconia, a BS Geology graduate of this institution, ranked 9th in the August 2009 Geologist Licensure (Board) Examination – proving that although the Geology Department of NORSU obviously lacks equipment and facilities, Norsunians can always do more with less. Before the first semester ended, Dan Jerome Saycon Barrera, a graduate of NORSU Bais Campuses, ranked 3rd in the September 2009 Criminology Licensure Examination – living proof that Norsunians, regardless of what campus, are competitive.

The part of the history of this institution weaved during the first semester in indubitably healthy – NORSU, as a university, continued to seek for improvement. Norsunians, as the products of this institution, also continued to shine.

As the second semester began, may the whole Norsunian community work together to give this chapter of NORSU’s history colorful and healthy pages. As another chapter unfolds, may everyone continue to do more with less, and exert industry and hard work for productivity.
This second semester: Level up NORSU! Shine Norsunians!

Overdue

2009-12-09T00:26:00.000-08:00

By Christian Edu B. Villegas
(Vol. XXVII No. 16, Editorial Cartoon)

Overdue

Ever since the day the university administration decided to have a dress code for Negros Oriental State University (NORSU), deciding what clothes are proper and what are not, has been a dilemma for the students. In the first few months of implementation, arguments between guards and students are a common occurrence. Without a proper guideline, a lot of students are often seen milling outside the university, unable to attend their classes because they were not allowed to get inside.

It was therefore a relief when the Student Government (SG) Legislative body started to formulate a proper dress code which will be followed by the NORSU System. With a proper dress code, there will no longer be questions as to what clothes one should wear to get inside the university.

Unfortunately, the said dress code which has been ‘in the process’ since last school year remains unapproved until now. The result, therefore, is the frequent bickering between the guards and the students, unable to agree with each other because they do not have a proper dressing guideline to follow.

The first semester has ended and the second semester has started and as the term of present officials are getting shorter, one cannot help but wonder if this dress code will ever be realized.

Despite the fact that the dress code policy has been implemented since the previous school year, questions of “nganong naka-sulod ka?” can still be heard inside the campus and girls wearing mini-skirts and sleeveless clothes can still be seen walking around the campus. The latter usually cause other students to grumble why mini-skirt-wearing students are allowed to enter when this type of clothing is explicitly prohibited together with flat sandals and shorts.

A proper dress code will not only eliminate grumblings from the students but will also be an advantage since students will no longer have to constantly worry if the clothes they are wearing will be allowed or not. It would also be easier for the guards to discern which type of clothes are considered proper and which ones are not. In addition, the guards will no longer have to quarrel with the students because they will finally have a document to show to the students and they need not rely on their judgments as to what is decent and what is not.

Every Norsunian is getting tired of the dress code problem, even the Chief Security Officer expressed his weariness regarding the issue. However, just because the NORSU community is getting tired of hearing it doesn’t mean that we have to take for granted the fact that after almost a year, the university still hasn’t come up with a proper dress code for the students to follow.

With the recent discrimination complaints raised by transgenders in the university who were not allowed to get inside the campus for wearing women’s outfit, the need for a proper dress code is again emphasized. Unless the resolution for the proper dress code is approved, the confusion surrounding this policy will continue.

Regrettably, time is running fast. The days are getting shorter and soon it will be the end of another school year and still, no dress code has been approved. Soon it will be too late to implement the said policy because new sets of officers will replace the present ones and new questions will be raised regarding the present proposed dress code.

Unless the SG-Legislative could present the approved dress code, the dilemma will continue and there will be no harmony between the students and the university guards. Norsunians can only hope that by this semester, the headaches and confusion caused by the dress code policy will finally be solved. Each and every student is looking forward to a confusion-free dress code policy this semester and for school years to come.

Only the NORSU admin and the SG can solve this problem. So help them God.

When Ondoy and Pepeng meet Pinoys

2009-10-16T07:32:00.000-07:00

By Paul Anthony Eso
(Vol. XXVII No. 15, Editorial Cartoon)

When Ondoy and Pepeng meet Pinoys

Recently, the Filipino nation has two uninvited cruel visitors which we wished have not visited at all – Ondoy (International Name: Ketsana) and Pepeng (International Name: Parma). Both typhoons, in the span of their short visits in the Philippines, did not only make this country suffer, but also exposed how lame the Philippine government is and how superficial the commitments of Filipino leaders and leaders-to-be are.

When Ondoy visited the Philippines on the afternoon of September 26, it brought the worst rainfall to a large part of Luzon – a rainfall which was said to be equivalent to a month of rain. It killed people; it destroyed properties – Ondoy was even dubbed as the most destructive typhoon recorded in the past 40 years in the country. As reported, Ondoy caused billions of damages and killed hundreds of lives. As estimated, it will take about a year before the Filipino nation could recover from its loss.

Moreover, Ondoy did not only give depressing pictures on the span of its visit but also on its aftermath. Days after Ondoy struck, everyone was tormented to see how immensely it has affected the lives of a lot of people – muddy houses; dead people and animals found everywhere; destroyed properties and sources of livelihood; and the most depressing: hunger, homelessness, and hopeless people. Ondoy stole the hope of some Filipinos and tested the faith of others.

Due to Ondoy’s destructive visit, the Philippine government declared a ‘state of calamity’ on the affected areas. It also sought for international humanitarian assistance from the world community. The United Nations also took part by pleading to other nations to help the typhoon victims. Over a hundred relief centers opened into action, with thousands of concerned citizens immediately offering donations or volunteering their services.

Barely a week after Ondoy’s visit, while the Filipino nation is still shocked with Ondoy’s aftermath, Pepeng came in uninvited in the afternoon of October 2 bringing rains that consequently caused floods and landslides. Pepeng is maybe less forbidding than Ondoy but still, the damages it caused, particularly in agriculture, cost billions. Pepeng is maybe less harsh than Ondoy but still, it soaked a lot of Filipino homes and livelihood with flood water and killed hundreds of people.

In the past two weeks since Pepeng and Ondoy visited the Philippines, the death toll reached 699, with 462 injured and 87 missing as stated in the latest reports published in Manila Bulletin. Moreover, infrastucture and agriculture damages amounted to P15 billion with more reports expected to come.

Ondoy and Pepeng’s visits indeed made the lives of many Filipinos miserable. It made this nation submerged in floods that washed away the hopes of almost everybody. Moreover, their visits also tested the kind of government we have – unfortunately, what they revealed is a lame government of a disaster-prone nation. Their visits tested how truly committed our leaders and leaders-to-be are – and sorry to say, what they have revealed are superficial leaders who are only good in words but never in action.

The visits of Ondoy and Pepeng revealed that the Philippine government is never prepared for big calamities. At the height of the two typhoons, it was discovered that the government does not even have sufficient equipment to rescue the almost hopeless victims; to feed the hungry evacuees and to reach out even a little help to the unfortunate ones.

It is so ironic that the Philippine government can spend millions for a dinner of the Philippine president and her party, but incapable in providing the needs of the typhoon victims. It is so ironic that our leaders and our aspiring leaders can spend millions for their political ads, but at this grim point in the lives of a lot of Filipinos, most of them are not visible. It is so ironic that the Philippine government is begging help from other countries when in the past months, it has been spending lavishly on senseless causes.

Ondoy and Pepeng, when they met Pinoys, revealed what Filipinos really have. Uunfortunately, what they revealed is as saddening as their aftermath.

Chronic migraine

2009-10-16T07:23:00.000-07:00

By Cheeno Luang
(Vol. XXVII No. 14, Editorial Cartoon)

Chronic migraine

Lack of facilities is probably one of the things that remain constant in Negros Oriental State University (NORSU). Students and teachers alike are clamoring for better facilities to enhance the university’s quality of education. This is no longer new as the demand has been going on for many years now.

As the university expands and accommodates new courses under its wing and as its population continues to increase, the need for better facilities become more apparent. However, instead of focusing on these problems and like a parent who does not know proper family planning, NORSU keeps on opening new courses unmindful of its insufficient resources. And while the parent nurtures and focuses its attention to its latest fledgling, it inadvertently shuts out the cries of its other children.

The Geology Department is just one among the many children of this university clamoring for better facilities for years now. Lack of classrooms, proper equipment, among others are just few of the things that the department has been asking for years to no avail. Fortunately, the department has generous alumni who never forget the needs of their department and willingly share what they have for their classes.

Geology is not the only department suffering from its parents’ inattention. A lot of other departments need facilities similar to those of the Geology Department, but like the latter, their pitiful cries remain unattended.

The saddest part is that, like an uneducated parent, instead of prioritizing the needs of the existing departments, the university went on and opened new courses that need even more expensive facilities than the existing ones. Like an irresponsible parent, the university spawned a new offspring whose needs would add more strain to the family’s already inadequate budget.
Time and again, the administration has been claiming insufficient funds as a reason why the needs of departments such as the Geology Department, remain unfulfilled. If the university cannot manage to provide for its existing departments, how can it possibly provide for new ones?

Classroom discussions are not enough to ensure quality education. While it is alright for some courses to rely on books and the expertise of their instructors, it cannot be denied that some courses need equipment so that its students could familiarize and apply what they learned from their teachers. This is not only to ensure that the students understand their lessons but also to ensure that our graduates don’t get shocked when they are already in the real world and encounter their profession’s tools for the first time.

Book-knowledge is different from actual experience. It would be preferable that a Mass Communication student, for example, actually knows how to handle a TV camera and edit videos than just memorize the use of a TV camera. Likewise, it is preferable that a Geology student knows how to use an actual Brunton compass than just imagine how it looks like. That is why, it is significant that the university provides the equipment needed by its departments. Proper facilities equate to better quality of education. Better quality of education equates to a more successful future.

Though it is understandable that the university aims well in opening new courses, it would have been better if they were able to solve the persistent and continuing problem on school facilities and provided proper equipment first before they opened new ones.

If the existing courses’ problems are causing headaches to the administration, for sure, the new ones will create a severe migraine because these new courses need more expensive facilities than the existing departments. It would have been wiser if the existing problems were solved first before welcoming new ones. For, is it not only prudent for a parent to ensure his financial stability first before bringing another child into this world?

The problem on the university’s facilities is a headache not only for the administration, but for the students and the instructors as well. It is a problem that remains constant despite the so-called improvements and developments in the university. It is a problem that continues to haunt the university like a ghost that refuses to be buried.

Like a headache, this problem will only stop nagging the NORSU community if the proper antidote is given. This is one headache, however, which a dose of pain reliever cannot cure. This is one headache which only the collective efforts of the whole NORSU community could heal.

Ondoy – the destroyer, the reminder

2009-10-05T05:24:00.000-07:00

By Christian Edu Villegas
(Vol. XXVII No. 13, Editorial Cartoon)

Ondoy – the destroyer, the reminder

On September 26, Saturday, typhoon “Ondoy” (International Name: Ketsana) brought massive rains resulting to the death of at least 140 people and displacement of nearly half a million individuals in a large part of Luzon, particularly in Metro Manila. Dubbed as the most terrifying storm recorded in over 40 years, Ondoy brought a month’s long rainfall within six hours. As a direct consequence, Ondoy severely affected hundreds of thousands after it filled 80 percent of Metro Manila under water.

Flashed on national televisions and shown in the internet, the whole nation watched in horror at the scenes and pictures of devastation and how Mother Nature could cruelly strike back equalizing everyone – poor or rich, young or old, unknown or popular. The Ondoy tragedy, for the Filipinos who are safely watching in their respective homes, will be remembered in images of helpless men and women, children and aged, desperately balancing and hanging on electric cables to get out from the chest-deep water level; of cars and properties being worthlessly washed like toys by the raging floodwaters; of movie and television actress Christine Reyes being vulnerably stranded on the rooftop of her Marikina house.

The storm is over by now, but the nightmare continues to haunt especially the ones who are brutally affected by it. The grim pictures continue to flash as well. On the lighter side, Filipinos are now working hand in hand to at least aid a little to the damage that the typhoon caused. In fact, just a day after the destructive typhoon, over a hundred relief centers opened into action, with thousands of concerned citizens immediately offering donations and volunteering their services. Also, the Philippine government, 48 hours after the tropical storm, sought for international humanitarian assistance from the world community after it has placed Metro Manila and 25 provinces under a state of calamity.

While Ondoy causes inestimable damage and while Filipinos struggle hard to cope with or recover from it, at the same time, we are given one picture of irony by the tragedy as a disaster-prone nation.

Filipinos are very good at organizing relief programs once a disaster strikes but they are a failure at preventing disaster in the first place. Ondoy may be a natural disaster and no individual or institution has control over it, but its effects were compounded by human behavior – Ondoy, too, was a man-made calamity. Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration or PAGASA is logical in saying that the unusual volume of rain in Ondoy’s wake could be due to climate change and while we cannot blame ourselves for the fact that rains fell, we cannot escape from the reality that we have no one else but ourselves to blame for the fact that the floodwaters did not quickly subside.

Because the Filipino people only knew how to dispose of their trash by word and not by action, because the Filipino people are still slow learners in understanding that “prevention is better than cure”, because the Filipino people have not yet learned how to be safety-conscious and invest in disaster-prevention – there is no one who is responsible for everything but the Filipinos themselves. We bear responsibility, not for the rains, but for the floods.

Filipinos, indeed, have a fine tradition of helping each other in times of disaster, of quickly and efficiently organizing disaster relief work. It is indeed commendable that, these days, the tradition floods to the people who are affected by the grim typhoon. Unluckily, that tradition runs counter to the culture of recklessness and irresponsibility of Filipino people on little things – even in proper garbage disposal – that best explains why the Philippines is a disaster-prone nation in the first place. It is sad to say that it is this type of culture that creates man-made calamities.

May the Ondoy tragedy awaken the Filipino people now. May Ondoy, the destroyer, serve as a reminder to everyone to be more responsible – even on little things like proper garbage disposal. We should not wait for another calamity to victimize us first before we can have the best learned lesson.

A challenge

2009-10-03T04:54:00.000-07:00

By Ren Angelo Elevera
(Vol. XXVII No. 12, Editorial Cartoon)

A challenge

Recently, Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) Tigers Basketball Team competed for the Negros Oriental Inter-Collegiate Basketball League. The Tigers landed on the third spot after knocking down the St. Paul University-Dumaguete (SPUD) Saints.

Settling on the third place is not an easy victory for the Tigers. Having only four veteran players, they found it difficult to win over the Saints whose members are mostly veterans. Aside from that, the fact that they also lack proper training due to lack of facilities and equipment needed for their practice also mattered.

With a lot of rookies in the team, it is understandable that the team would not be as strong as it was a few years back. These rookies, who are supposed to be trained well before playing at the court and competing with other players of the different university teams in the city, are not getting enough practice. How can they practice well when they do not have the needed facilities and equipment? In short, they lack proper training.

Looking back, NORSU Tigers was once considered as one of the strongest basketball teams in the city. Tigers used to compete for the championship in Inter-Collegiate basketball tournament which always bring excitement to the NORSU community. It used to be the center of attention of Norsunians, especially in the months of September where the Negros Oriental Intercollegiate Basketball League takes place.

But what has happened to the former spirit brought by the Tigers to the NORSU community? Where has it gone?

The fact is: we no longer feel it. Before, the whole NORSU community was really updated as to when will be the next game of the Tigers, what team will be their next opponent, and the like. But now, it seems that Norsunians no longer care about it. It seems that they have been abandoned—by the students and the administration.

The Tigers, being the basketball team of the university, plays an important role in uplifting the NORSU spirit. In every game they play, they bring with them the name of the university—they bring with them the name of NORSU. If they do well in court, they do not only get the praises for themselves but also for NORSU. The same goes with the criticisms. Whatever criticism they get, NORSU also gets it because in every game they play, they represent our school. It is the name of NORSU which is at stake. Therefore, the university must answer the call for the needed facilities and equipment of the team for them to improve.

Since it is the goal of the Student Government to uplift the NORSU spirit, why not start on this one? After all, the NORSU spirit was once uplifted by the Tigers because of their victories which made Norsunians shout on top of their lungs the name of the university. Their cheers just showed how proud they were of their school because Tigers defeated other university basketball teams. And Tigers even made it to the championship in some tournaments that they participated.

On the other hand, the team should also do its part. The lack of equipment should not be the reason for the team’s losses. They should not also reason out that because most of the members are rookies, it is just okay to lose. Everybody knows that it is not; thus, they should make it a habit to always do their best in court for them to be the victor.

Even with the lack of facilities and equipment, they should show it that they can win over other teams. Because it is not only the equipment and facilities that matter but also the commitment and the hard work of the team members.

Though they made it to the third spot in this year’s Negros Oriental Inter-Collegiate Basketball League, we can still say that it is not enough to gain back the spirit that was once felt by every Norsunian every time the Tigers play. Everyone knows that the Tigers can do better than that. Thus, they should try their best to make it to the championship game next time. Who knows? Perhaps, it would be one way of recovering the spirit that this university is slowly losing.
This is a challenge to the Tigers!

Looking forward

2009-09-28T03:50:00.000-07:00

By Cheeno Luang

(Vol. XXVII No. 11, Editorial Cartoon)

Looking forward

Ongoing commendable improvements can be seen vividly inside the university. The university entrance, aside from the main gate being restructured earlier, was beautified by bricking and landscaping it. Indeed, we can now say that the university entrance is in a more presentable sight – something which is an eye candy not only to Norsunians but to the passersby as well.
Another improvement is the putting up of cemented covers to the stinking open canals of the university. The administration’s action put an end to the perennial problem of the canals’ stinking smell – the smell that once threatened Norsunians’ health. The diffusion of the smell, because of the cemented cover, is now dissipated – meaning, students can now breathe freely while passing or staying at the area. The Physical Education (PE) students, as well as the students who have classes nearby, will not be disturbed by the foul smell anymore.
The ongoing construction of the College of Nursing, Dentistry, Pharmacy, and Allied Health Sciences (CNDPAHS) building is also one commendable improvement that this university undertakes. Being one of the targets of University President Henry A. Sojor this year, the building would mean that the once premature college is slowly metamorphosing. The CNDPAHS students will soon have a building that they can call their own, especially that the college’s population is growing. On the other hand, if the building will be furnished, it would also mean a relief to the College of Law students. The lack of rooms is the major problem of law students; hence, they will have more classrooms soon as CNDPAHS will move to their new building.

On the other hand, some projects are now in the pipeline of the university’s plan and will also be realized soon, such as the reconstruction of the drainage system of the university to minimize flooding during heavy rainfall. Another is the plan of the Federation of University Parents-Teachers Association to construct a two-storey clinic. Indeed, if these things will be realized, these would be a relief to the perpetual problems long suffered by the students.

Looking at these improvements and looking forward to the incoming ones, it is commendable that little by little, as time passes by, some things are done to unload some of the students’ burdens. It is noteworthy that finally, some of the students’ cries were heard. It is worth praising that after years of suffering, some students can now heave a sigh of relief because some problems have been remedied.

On the other hand, if we will look closely, these improvements are only droplets compared to the ocean of problems that the Norsunians are suffering in this university. There is still a lot to be done before everyone could heave a sigh of relief; before everyone will be jubilant. To name some, there is the obsolete and crowded building of the College of Business and Accountancy (CBA) which calls for renovation because of its dilapidated state and to cater the growing population of the college. Another is the long time cry for equipment of the engineering and geology students – the courses that have been producing topnotchers through the years. Worth mentioning is the need for roofed pathways inside the university so that students will not be soaked wet during rainy days. Another is the need for roofed class areas for PE students so that they will not suffer under the unpredictable weather.

Moreover, as we look forward to the university’s next set of projects, we hope that the university would go for improvements that are really beneficial to most students; improvements which are practical and necessary; and improvements which are important and long-lasting. As University Engineer Joseph Noay puts it in one of the interviews of The NORSUnian, there are a lot of projects that are lined up to aid the cries of the students but since they are only dependent on the available budget, they are implementing it according to priority.

With that, we hope that the administration is really thinking of the students first before others.

In our hands

2009-09-28T03:40:00.000-07:00

By Paul Anthony Eso

(Vol. XXVII No. 10, Editorial Cartoon)

In our hands

Many times, the youth has been tagged as the hope of the fatherland. With a total population of more or less 24 million as projected by the National Statistics Office, this is not so hard to imagine. The youth, age 15-30 years old as defined by Republic Act 8044, plays a major role in the making or breaking of the country’s future. At least one third of the country’s population is composed of young people who, if will move as one, can change the course of the country’s history.

And if there is one moment in the history of this country where the voice of the youth is greatly needed, it would be in the upcoming elections. The youth population alone could ensure the victory of the candidate who embodies the ideals of the young generation.

In an article published in abscbn.com, entitled “Imperatives of the Youth” by Maxine Tanya Hamada, it was noted that in the 2004 elections, almost 13 million of the total number of voters were 18-24 years old, five million of which are first time voters. However, it was also noted that roughly two million supposed new voters failed to register for that election. In that same year, the president won by more than a million votes than her opponents’ and as what Hamada said, “Had the two million youth voters registered and voted, it could have tipped the scale.”

For so many years now, the vote of the youth has been considered negligible because a huge number of young people are not registered voters. A lot of them are either unaware that they need to register to vote or they prefer not to vote at all. The latter is perhaps the more damaging since the decision to not participate in the polls is a blatant act of apathy to the fate of the country.

But of course, registering for the elections is only the first part in taking the steps to attain the changes that we aim. It is not enough to just have yourself registered for the elections; you have to take part in the actual voting. According to Youth Vote, an organization that encourages the youth to vote in the election, 54 percent or 34 million voters for the 2010 election fall on the age ranging from 15 to 24 years old. Comprising more than half of the total number of voters, the youth therefore should exercise the right to suffrage.

The 2010 election is fast approaching but out of the 6.4 million potential voters, only 2.6 million are registered as of August 2009. Though the 4.2 million unregistered voters are given until October 31 to register, it is still expected that only a fraction of it will be able to register.

The youth is more than the hope of the fatherland; we are agents of change. If we are not satisfied with what is happening in our country today then it is high time to do something about it, and the best way to show our discontent is to choose for new leaders to lead our country.

With the threats of Cha-Cha and extended terms for politicians, the upcoming election is a crucial moment in the lives of every Filipino. This is not only the time to choose a new leader but also the time to express our dissatisfaction to the government. Our collective votes could change not only a new leader but also the course of our history.

The change that we have been looking for could not be found elsewhere. The power to change the country for the better is in the hands of every Filipino—it is in the hands of the youth. It is up to us to do something to ensure a better future not only for us but to the future generation. By taking part in the elections, we are chartering the future of our country. Through our votes, we are expressing to the world our choice—the choice of change.

Every single vote counts. Every single drop of the indelible ink makes a difference. Every stroke of the pen charts the destiny of our country. And the youth plays a crucial role in attaining this change.

The youth must vote. The youth must take part. The future is in our hands.

Hayop at malansa

2009-09-03T11:20:00.000-07:00

By Christian Edu Villegas
(Vol. XXVII No. 9, Editorial Cartoon)

Hayop at malansa

“Ang hindi marunong magmahal sa sariling wika ay higit pa sa hayop at malansang isda.” Ito ang isa sa pinakatanyag na sinabi ng ating pambansang bayani na si Gat. Jose P. Rizal – isang linya na naglalayong ipabatid sa lahat na kailangang mahalin ang ating wika, ang wikang Filipino.

Sa pagdiriwang ng Buwan ng Wika ngayong Agosto kung saan nagiging tanyag na naman ang pagsasabi sa pangungusap na “ikaw ay higit pa sa hayop at malansang isda kung hindi mo mahal ang iyong sariling wika. Malamang marami sa atin ang naguguluhan dahil hindi nagkakatugma ang mga itinuturo sa atin sa apat na sulok ng silid-aralan. Sa asignaturang Filipino, sinasabing ang pagmamahal sa sariling wika ay susi sa pagkakaisa at kaunlaran. Sa kabilang dako, sa asignaturang Ingles o maging sa halos lahat ng klase, hinihikayat tayong pagyamanin at gamitin ang wikang Ingles o maging ang ibang wikang banyaga. Wika nga, “Speak good English, your future depends on it”.

Malamang marami sa atin ang nagtatanong: Kung ang pagsasalita ng wikang banyaga ay pagiging mas masahol pa sa hayop at pagiging mas malansa pa kaysa sa isda, bakit tayo tinuturuan ng wikang Ingles? Bakit lahat ng ating mga asignatura, maliban sa Filipino, ay Ingles ang ginagamit na wika? O, ang pagsasabi ba sa pangungusap na “ang hindi magmahal sa sariling wika ay higit pa sa hayop at malansang isda” ay nagagamit lamang tuwing buwan ng Agosto?

Itinuturo ang Ingles mula elementarya hanggang kolehiyo, at ito’y bahagi na ng buhay ng bawat mag-aaral. Hinihikayat ng halos lahat ng paaralan na gamitin ang Ingles bilang midyum sa pakikipagtalastasan at hindi maipagkakailang malaki ang naging epekto nito sa buhay ng bawat Pilipino, lalo na sa mga estudyante. Sa katunayan, ang Pilipinas ang isa sa mga bansa sa buong mundo na may pinakamaraming populasyon na gumagamit ng wikang Ingles.

Alam natin kung bakit kailangang pagyamanin ang pagsasalita ng Ingles. Ito ay dahil ang Ingles ang itinuturing na “universal language”, kaya para makipagsabayan sa pandaigdigang kompetisyon, kailangan ng bawat Pilipino na matuto at magsanay sa wikang ito. Ang wikang Ingles ang pangunahing sandata natin upang makipagsabayan sa kahit sinuman sa mundo.

Totoo nga na mahalagang pagyamanin ang pagsasalita ng wikang Ingles. Sa kabilang dako, narito naman ang kahalagahan ng sariling wika – ang wikang Filipino. Maliban sa ito ang instrumento ng komunikasyon sa bansang Pilipinas, ito rin ang nagbubuklod sa isang bansang malaya at ang sinasabing daan tungo sa sariling pagkakakilanlan, pagkakaintindihan, pagkakaisa, at pagpapalaganap ng kaalaman. Mahalaga ang wikang Filipino dahil sa pamamagitan nito, nagiging mas madali ang pagkakaintindihan ng mga Pilipino mula Aparri hanggang Jolo lalung-lalo na dahil ang Pilipinas ay isang bansang binubuo ng mahigit isandaan at pitumpung wika.

Mahalagang pagyamanin, at higit sa lahat, mahalin ang sariling wika – ang wikang Filipino. Sa kabilang banda, mahalaga ring matutunan at sanayin ang pagsasalita ng wikang Ingles. Hindi natin maikakaila na parehong mahalaga ang wikang Filipino at Ingles.

Ngayon, ang pagsasanay ba sa wikang Ingles ay nangangahulugang pagiging hayop at pagiging malansa? Hindi. Bakit? Dahil hindi nangangahulugang ang pagsasalita ng Ingles ay paglimot sa wikang Filipino. Hindi ka hayop at malansa kung nagsasalita ka ng Ingles dahil maaari namang pagsabaying sanayin at pagyamanin ang dalawang wika. Parehong mahalaga ang dalawang wika– ang Filipino upang mapagbuklod ang ating bansa, at ang Ingles upang maging handa sa pandaigdigang kompetisyon.

Tungkulin ng bawat Pilipino na mahalin ang sariling wika kasabay ng pagsasanay ng sa ibang wika upang maging handa sa pandaigdigang panukatan. Nagiging totoong ‘higit pa sa hayop at malansang isda’ lamang ang isang Pilipino kung nakaligtaan niyang gampanan ang ganitong tungkulin.

Losing a great gift

2009-08-17T17:57:00.000-07:00

By Ren Angelo Elevera
(Vol. XXVII No. 8, Editorial Cartoon)

Losing a great gift

On August 1, the news of the death of the Philippines’ icon of democracy, former President Corazon “Cory” Cojuangco-Aquino, broke out, leaving the Filipino nation in a state of shock. Rich and poor alike, grieved for the woman who is considered a national treasure of the country.

President Cory, a global icon of democracy who led the ouster of one of 20th century’s most corrupt dictators, died at 76 after a 16-month battle against colon cancer. Her family announced that she died in the early hours of August 1, shortly after a private mass was held in her hospital room. President Cory, affectionately known as Tita Cory, was the Philippine president from 1986 to 1992 and is best remembered as the slim woman in yellow who led the “People Power” revolution that toppled Dictator Ferdinand Marcos more than two decades ago.

The death of Tita Cory brought back the People Power spirit which engulfed the nation years ago. From her sickbed down to her grave, the whole nation witnessed the outpouring of love from the Filipino people across the nation – rain or shine, daytime or nighttime. At the height of the nation’s mourning for the death of the icon, people wearing yellow ribbons and yellow dominated outfits tirelessly line along the streets, flashing the former president’s trademark “Laban” hand sign while repeatedly chanting the former president’s name, throwing yellow confetti, releasing yellow balloons, and freeing doves – all reminds us of the historical People Power revolution.

Moreover, though it pains to see President Cory pass away, the reaction showed by the Filipino people is heartening. In the past months or even in the past years, it seemed that the essence of democracy was set aside and was considered irrelevant and immaterial – the democracy which President Cory and her husband, Ninoy Aquino, together with the multitude of unsung heroes and heroines of EDSA I, have fought for came to the fore once again.

President Cory’s passing ended her life and her battle against her illness, but reinvigorated the spirit of People Power – it reminded both the older and the younger generations that Philippine democracy should be cherished and upheld at all times. Her sickness and death have, obviously, regenerated faith, peace and unity among Filipino people. The series of novena prayers and healing masses held all over the Philippines and in other parts of the world; the rapid spreading and posting of the images of that meaningful yellow ribbon on the web and on the prints; people tying yellow ribbons; and the gold-colored banners, flowers and balloons swarming along the streets everywhere in the Philippines is a reminder that Filipinos can always unite and work as one for a brighter and progressive nation.

These only proves what President Cory is to the Filipino people – a treasure.

President Cory’s very meaningful life and death, as well as her heroism should continue to live and should be proudly shared to the coming generations. Indeed, when Tita Cory died, the Philippines lost a gift – a great gift. But, her gift to the Filipino people was not buried with her. Our country’s democracy from the decades of corruption and dictatorship is the living and the most precious legacy she has ever given to every Filipino.

Thank you and goodbye President Cory! Long live democracy!

More work

2009-08-14T20:09:00.000-07:00

By Cheeno Luang
(Vol. XXVII No. 7, Editorial Cartoon)

More work

In her State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 27, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo (PGMA) did not only report her accomplishments in her nine years of service but also left another set of promises to the Filipino people for her last few months as the president of the Philippine Republic.

In the twilight of her administration, it was expected that PGMA would boast of her accomplishments since she started to take hold of the presidential seat. Indeed, achievements like the upgrade of credit rating, citing the resilience of our economy; putting up of new tax revenues and a strong educational system; construction of more roads and infrastructure; building of airports of international standard, etcetera… etcetera…were enumerated by the proud president during her SONA.

Aside from the annual accomplishment report, another remarkable part of her speech was the set of promises she left. As the end of PGMA’s term approaches, she still has promises for the Filipino people. She promised to help more fisher folk shift to fish farming with a budget of P1billion. She promised to aid hungry families. She promised to support the youth to make sure that they get a healthy start in life. She promised to address terrorism in the country. She promised this and she promised that. It is beyond doubt that her SONA was full of promises.

Yes, promises. Promises that every year bombard the ears of the Filipino people. Promises that we do not know when they will be fulfilled, or if they were fulfilled at all. This time, it seems that mapapako na naman ang mga pangakong ito since there is not enough time left for PGMA to fulfill these promises.

Looking back, PGMA has indeed accomplished some things – she has all the evidences to prove it. But, as ordinary citizens, did we really feel it? Did we, the poor ones, benefit from the so-called achievements of PGMA? If you answered ‘yes’, perhaps it is because you got persuaded by the convincing speech of the president. But think again. Maybe, you were just influenced by the 74-minute speech of the president seasoned with 126 applauses. Truly, she had a nice speech that she even made special mention of those who criticize her administration. She said, “Had we listened to the critics of those policies, had we not braced ourselves for the crisis that came, had we taken the easy road much preferred by politicians eyeing elections, this country would be flat on its back”. This wonderful line from the president has gained positive response from some members of the senate.

But the bottom line is: Is she really telling the true state of the nation? Do we feel it?

Moments after the 9th SONA of the president, Senator Ramon ‘Bong’ Revilla Jr. posted his reaction in the official website of the Senate of the Philippines 14th Congress (www.senate.gov.ph), saying positive stance on the president’s address. Revilla said that despite the achievements of PGMA’s administration, politicking still continues. Thus, politicking is the only thing that the Filipino people see, not PGMA’s achievements.

Well, Senator Revilla could be right in saying that politicking continues to reign despite the accomplishments of the president. But is it not because PGMA’s achievements were not good enough? Anyway, if there is nothing to say about her administration or if she’s doing her job excellently, then people will not castigate her.

Let us see if the president will do her job right this time when she is already at the last minute of her final term. She even stated this: “Some say that after this SONA, it will be all politics. Sorry, but there’s more work...”

Let’s hold on to that line. And let’s all cross our fingers.

A little consideration

2009-08-01T08:29:00.000-07:00

By Paul Anthony Eso
(Vol. XXVII No. 6, Editorial Cartoon)

A little consideration

The “Exit Only” sign blocking the pathway between the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) building and the College of Law (COL) building has always been a bane of the students. This is because the pathway is the easiest route to the side stairs leading to the Internet Research Station, the library and the third floor of the CAS building. Also, the pathway is the easiest route to get to the CAS dean’s office as well as the classrooms on the ground floor of the CAS building.

Aside from being a hassle to students who are in a hurry to get to their classes held in the CAS building, the “Exit Only” sign is a curse during rainy days when the alley is the only convenient route to the building and to the other buildings near it.

As practiced, students can only use the main pathway along the side of the CAS building to avoid clogging the path between the CAS and COL buildings as well as to avoid damaging the landscape beside the Dean’s office. Before, students were allowed to use the alley during rainy days to get to their respective classes. However, this year, students have to suffer getting wet during rainy days because the alley remains “Exit only” even during rainy days.

It is understandable that with the growing number of students of Negros Oriental State University and the recklessness of some students, there is a great possibility that the landscape beside the dean’s office of the CAS building will be trampled and damaged. It is also understood that because the alley is smaller than the main pathway, the alley will be clogged if students will just be allowed to get in and out of the alley. But what is not understandable is the inconsideration of the people concerned during rainy days.

It is a well-known fact that the main pathway offers no protection to students who are in a hurry to get to their classes during rainy days. It is also a known fact that the only pathway that could offer the students protection without hindering them from getting to class on time is the pathway between the CAS and COL buildings. But because the alley is for “exit only”, the students have to either wait in the student lounge and risk being absent from class or run under the rain and risk getting sick, not to mention getting wet.

Some adventurous students would sometimes take their chances and play the “cat and mouse” game with the security guards. They would simply wait when the guards are no longer looking and dash towards the “exit only” alley. Aside from the risk of being reprimanded by the guards if ever the students get caught, it also poses danger to them. With the wet pavement, the rain and the anxiousness of the students to escape from the guards, an accident is not that far a possibility.

The only way to avoid a possible accident from these “cat and mouse” games and wasting of time reprimanding the students is to allow them to use the alley even during rainy days.

It is commendable that the security guards are observing their orders and are maintaining their vigilance in implementing the policies. However, in situations such as these, a little bit of consideration should also be applied. It is only normal for the students to find the most convenient road for them to use during rainy days, especially if they are in a hurry to get to their classes. It just happens that the most convenient way is the one blocked by the “Exit Only (for students only)” sign.

Allowing the students to use the alley during rainy days will not change the effectiveness of the “Exit only” sign on regular days because after all, criminology students are standing to guard the area on regular days. This will only give a little bit of consideration to students who do not want to get wet and certainly do not want to be absent from class during rainy days.

Moreover, if the authorities would not really allow the students to use the alley even during rainy days, then they should start roofing the pathways so that the students would also stop their “cat and mouse” games with the guards and accidents could be avoided. Besides, the students’ health is of utmost importance than any other purpose of that “Exit Only” alley.

As time passes

2009-07-24T20:35:00.000-07:00

By Christian Edu Villegas
(Vol. XXVII No. 5, Editorial Cartoon)

As time passes

Time, indeed flies fast and we almost did not notice that even the midterm examination is already fast approaching. Classes have now become intense, except for those that are handled by irresponsible instructors. Projects, paper works, presentations, reports, examinations, etcetera, are now loaded to most students’ shoulders. Indeed, we can already feel that from the exhausting enrollment we had, we already have gone a little farther.

Along with the fast-paced days is the revival of the urgent cries of students about the perennial problems that this university has – perennial problems which, unfortunately, remain unattended up to this very day. These problems burden the students since they have to deal with them everyday.

One of the perennial problems is the unroofed pathways. With the onset of the rainy season, treading the pathways under the pouring rain is absolutely a burden. If we will recall, among the recommendations of the accreditors in the past accreditations was for the administration to provide covered pathways for the students. These days, with the unpredictable weather, the need for action on this recommendation has become more imperative. More rain means more burden for the students, and of course, more victims of flu.

Another problem is the lack of comfort rooms (CRs) that really mean ‘rooms for comfort’. This has been a problem of the university since time immemorial. Concerted efforts from the past Student Government (SG) administrations up to the present have been poured, yet, it is only alleviated for a short time, and then later on, it still remains a problem. This time, hiring personnel to maintain the cleanliness of the CRs is not good enough since no matter how hard they try to clean it, the CRs remain disgustingly stinking and are obviously, not rooms for comfort. True, we put the blame on students for not doing their part in the proper use of CRs, but perhaps it is time to consider that students do not care about the CRs because after all, it is not worth caring for. If we are going to look closer on the CRs that this university has, the problem is not with the maintenance as well as with the users – the problem is with the type and kind of CRs that we have.

The lack of a roofed place for Physical Education (PE) classes is also another problem. With the unpredictable weather these days, this is another burden. In the past years, it has been a long promise of most SG candidates who seek for top position in the SG – to find means to provide roofed class areas for the PE students but, unfortunately, no one made it to fruition. PE students remain almost toasted under the scorching heat of the sun and their classes are cancelled when the rain pours. Or if not, after a heavy rain, they would often settle on the slippery wet floor of the open courts which is prone to accidents.

These are only some of the perennial burdens that the Norsunians have. There are still a lot of problems out there and a lot more will come this school year. How to solve even the three mentioned burdens is next to impossible. We were taught in the past years to do more with less since NORSU, as a state university, gets very limited budget from the national government, thus, it is too ambitious for us to say that these can be solved right away.

On the other hand, we should not think that being in a state university, this problem will remain a burden to the students. Now is the time to slowly but surely address these problems, or put them among the priorities of the administration since these concern the students. This way, the students’ burden will be lessened. Someone in power should take the cudgels for these!
Could the Federation of University Parents and Teachers Association come to the rescue? Or the SG? Maybe it is now time to prove to everyone that SG’s remarkable project is not only about beauty pageants. Now is the time to focus on something that really answers the concerns of the majority of the students.

May this urgent call not fall on deaf ears.

On thievery

2009-07-15T05:14:00.000-07:00

By Ren Angelo Elevera

(Vol. XXVII No. 4, Editorial Cartoon)

On thievery

This is not the first time that cases of thievery take place inside the very parameters of the university. In fact, issues of thievery inside the campus had already appeared to be more of an ordinary issue to us that every time we hear of one, it does not alarm us anymore. Just recently, an array of reported cases of thievery and lost items once again surfaced – and most of it happened at the university library.

This time, it is lame to place the blame on the security officers who are in-charge of everyone’s safety inside the campus. As we observed, since blue guards came into this campus and since the Office of the Security Matters was finally defined, there has been very tight security that sometimes, we even thought that the implementations of security rules are too much and exaggerated. As we have all experienced, bags are checked, IDs are checked, and visitors are checked – meaning, we are safe from malicious intruders from the outside because no one can easily get in.

Sadly, thievery cases are repeatedly happening despite the efforts of the security department in implementing tighter security. Why? The very reason is because we allow it to happen again and again. Thievery happens because of recklessness and less cautiousness from most of us.

In the library for example, where most of the recent thievery happened, despite the sign in the baggage shelf that says “Please leave your backpacks, bags, attache case, and big envelopes but DO NOT LEAVE your wallets, cellphones, calculators and other valuables”, a lot of students still carelessly leave valuables in their bags, thus, become easy prey for thieves. Also, the fact that nobody is attending to the baggage shelf, prudence dictates that everyone should not leave any important belonging because obviously, it is not safe.

Many are duped, because many are careless. Because a lot of students remain not cautious, thievery continues.

Let everyone be reminded that being extra careful and being cautious are the best weapons against thievery especially that the culprits were, apparently, students of NORSU too - since outsiders cannot easily get inside the campus because of tight security. Past experiences teach us the painful lesson that the culprit could be that person sitting next to us.

On the other hand, it is high time now for authorities to do something beyond the mere “do not leave your important belongings here” warning. Someone should be assigned to man the baggages of the students for obvious reasons.

Organizing the system of the baggage counter and extra diligence are surefire formula for winning the fight against burglary in the library, in particular, and in the campus, in general.

Of plans and promises

2009-07-08T01:30:00.001-07:00

By Christian Edu Villegas
(Vol. XXVII No. 3, Editorial Cartoon)

Of plans and promises
It has often been said that promises are easier said than done.

This is especially true in politics where we often experience being showered with promises by our political leaders. Unfortunately for us, broken promises are not only limited to the national political circles.

Overflowing plans and broken promises had become a part of our political culture, that even when we are unsatisfied with our leaders we keep quiet and pretend that everything is all right. But is it right?

As the new school year starts, new student leaders will also take the helm of the student government. New leaders mean a whole new year of prospective developments for the student body and the university, a whole new set of leaders laying out their plans for the students—or at least, that is what they say.

While a lot of the promises made by the past SG officers remain unfulfilled, the student body is looking forward to see what the present set of officers have to offer. After all, they did promise a lot when they ran for office.

Aside from fulfilling the many promises that they have made during their campaigns, it is also important to remind the present set of SG officers of the many issues that they need to address now that they are finally in office. It is high time that the student government realize that leadership is not only about providing enjoyable programs and putting up lounges and other projects.

The Student Government is a representative of the student body. The SG officers should serve as the liaison between the students and the administration. The SG should, therefore, fight for the students and not act as puppets of the administration.

For one, the SG should at least come up with a clear and final dress code policy to avoid the continuing confusion in the proper dress code of the university. It is somehow commendable how the past officers tried to come up with a clear dress code but as its present implementation is again being questioned, then the SG should do something about it.

Also, the SG should learn to start fighting for students’ rights as a lot of it are already being violated. Programs that could help the students in matters such as sexual harassments and abuses should be given attention also.

Though it is still too early to judge the kind of leaders that we have, still we are hoping that they will be a lot better than the past student leaders that the university had.

Our present student leaders have countless plans, many of which focus only on beautification and cleanliness, and like our national political leaders; they too showered us with promises during their campaigns. It is still too early to know which among the many promises will be fulfilled but it wouldn’t be too much to expect that the present SG would finally make a difference. Will they? That remains to be seen.

Big ventures, bigger responsibilities

2009-07-04T01:44:00.000-07:00

By Ren Angelo Elevera

(Vol. XXVII No. 2, Editorial Cartoon)

Big ventures, bigger responsibilities

Five significant years have passed since the birth of Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) – five significant years of continual progress and development. Within that span of time, the institution, which once started from lowly wooden classrooms, has served as a learning ground for exercising academic freedom, fairness, and equality of opportunity. Now that it has reached the pinnacle of its dreams, it keeps on striving to gradually enter the door to the higher level of global competence.

Just recently, NORSU determinedly made several ambitious ventures. Two new courses, which are the Doctor in Dental Medicine (DDM) and Bachelor of Science in Mining Engineering (BSEM), were opened at the start of the semester. There was also the official opening of the NORSU-Mabinay Campus at Barangay Namangka, Poblacion, Mabinay, as one of its satellite campuses. Indeed, these are big undertakings for NORSU – undertakings which mean a start of something that has to be looked after, cultured, and improved as time passes.

These ventures obviously imply improvement for a university that sprouted from humble beginnings. Offering DDM and BSEM this semester only means that NORSU has progressed a lot in the past five years because it can now provide wider choice of better courses for its students. Besides, DDM and BSEM are two of the in-demand courses nowadays.

On the other hand, opening NORSU-Mabinay Campus is one testament that NORSU answered the needs of the community for an accessible higher education. With the development, the NORSU family was not only expanded, but also, it gives a sigh of relief to the parents and guardians of the poor but deserving students in the Municipality of Mabinay and other neighboring towns. Their sons and daughters can now avail of higher education without going to far places and without spending more.

On the other side of the coin, while looking at the ambitious ventures of the university, questions flood. Is NORSU ready to offer DDM and BSEM especially that those courses require additional facilities and equipment? If we are going to look around, it cannot be denied that some old courses in this university are left unattended while the students seemingly wait for eternity on their wanted facilities, equipment, and even instructors. Some courses in this university are yet to be improved, and now, here it is again, offering two courses that have to start from zero. It is very possible that these new courses will just fall to the row of academic programs in this university that lack equipment, facilities, and instructors.

The same thing goes for the opening of NORSU-Mabinay Campus. One cannot help but ask if the campus is already geared up in terms of instructions, facilities and equipment before its opening. Is it a relevant move? Is the university prepared? What quality of education could it offer? It was reported that the campus has a population of 271 students with only two rooms. Shouldn’t adequate rooms be built first before opening the campus?

These big ventures currently taken by NORSU definitely mean big improvements. On the other hand, it also means big risks and bigger responsibilities. By offering these new courses and opening a new campus, is NORSU making the wrong move? Now that NORSU has taken the step and has already started the program, there is no turning back.

We can only cross our fingers and hope that these ventures would not be an addition to the piling academic programs that lack facilities, instructors and equipment. There is nothing we can do but hope and pray that NORSU will be able to handle these higher steps as time passes.

Everything starts from scratch, from nothing and NORSU started from humble beginnings. Let us continue hoping that the newest programs of the university would rise from scratch to something that we can all be proud of. Do not stop to cross your fingers yet, we still have a long way to go.

Higher!

2009-07-01T04:31:00.000-07:00

By Christian Edu Villegas
(Vol. XXVII No. 1, Editorial Cartoon)

Higher!

With the issues hounding the country today such as the pandemic influenza A(H1N1) virus, Hayden Kho Jr. and Katrina Halili et. al. sex scandal, Constituent Assembly, and many more, it is good to see that everything is still doing good in this side of the Philippine archipelago. After the postponement of the opening of classes as declared by the Commission on Higher Education due to the A(H1N1) virus threat, we are finally back to school ready to make another milestone in our students’ lives.

Like us, our Alma Mater, Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) is now also ready for another academic year. This school year marks the sixth academic year of NORSU in its flight as a young and flourishing university.

Looking back, the past five academic years of the university have been a period of transformation. That is indubitable. From its humble beginnings as a new university, it has risen to what it is now. It can be observed that the university had never drifted but keeps soaring higher. Its colorful history, seasoned with the splatters of success, failures, changes, lessons, struggles, and progress, could give justice to its present stature.

Doors for changes and development have been opened in the past. Significant improvements of the university in terms of upgrading its standards, instructions, facilities, equipment, and other educational tools have taken a large place. Norsunians continually reap honors and kept proving what this university can produce. All of these significant things have taken place along with NORSU’s flight as a university.

We don’t have to go far to see proofs of these transformations. Just last year, although rocked with many issues, NORSU was able to improve a lot. The Office of Security Matters was put up along with the installations of blue guards, making the university’s security tighter. There was the adoption of the E-system in the grading process of the university. More equipment and facilities were also acquired. NORSU provided Engine Room Facilities and Mock Bridge for College of Maritime Education students and a mini-hospital for College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences (CNAHS) students. The university gate was also restructured and the construction of the first phase of CNAHS building was started.

On achievements, Norsunians were never left behind. Engr. Bernard Duran Jr. ranked 5th in the Civil Engineering Licensure Examination; Engr. Winston Gomez and Engr. Jephunneh Paalisbo placed 2nd and 7th, respectively in the nationwide October 2008 Mechanical Engineering Licensure Examination; and Catherine Capilla, a graduate of Bachelor of Elementary Education major in Special Education, made it to the top ten of the nationwide Licensure Examination for Teachers – a first in NORSU’s history!

These were only some of the transformations and achievements in the past.

From the good things that every Norsunian is savoring now, we can indeed say that NORSU has lived up to the expectations of the people in providing quality education for the poor but deserving students. None of these good things, however, were achieved in an instant or in a blink of an eye. Of course, it took a lot of painful lessons and arduous toils before they were accomplished. It had to rise from some failures and bittersweet pains before success was finally achieved. It took a lot of guts, determination and genuine efforts before changes and progress took place.

As NORSU opens its gates for the school year 2009-2010 – marking its sixth academic year since its conversion into a university – it must continue to soar and it must go higher this time. There are still a lot of things that this university has to achieve, that is why efforts, toils and hard works must be continually exerted. There are still a lot of problems that have to be boldly faced. There are still a lot of unrealized dreams. That is why the quest to soar high must go on.

Let us all work together to give this chapter of NORSU’s history a colorful and healthy page. To quote American poet Oliver Wendell Holmes, “The great thing in the world is not so much where we stand, as in what direction we are moving.” Let’s move higher. Fly high Norsunians! Soar higher NORSU!

On Sojor’s suspension

2009-02-22T04:08:00.000-08:00

By Jick K. Iñgan
(Vol. XXVI No. 12, Editorial Cartoon)

On Sojor’s suspension

One hot issue discussed in the university for months now is the 90-day preventive suspension of Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) President Henry A. Sojor.

The issue broke out earlier this school year after the Supreme Court (SC) upheld the disciplinary authority of the Civil Service Commission (CSC) over state university presidents.

Everything rooted from the three separate complaints lodged by some faculty members of the then Central Visayas Polytechnic College (now NORSU) against the university president in 2002. Complaints for dishonesty, grave misconduct and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service; dishonesty, misconduct and falsification of public documents; and nepotism were the sets of complaints filed with CSC against Sojor.

While on the height of the celebration of the University Founder’s Week, the talk on the issue intensified again when CSC issued an order dated November 19, 2008, placing Sojor under preventive suspension for 90 days for the commission to proceed with the formal investigation of the charges against him. Despite the order, Sojor remained in his office attending his daily responsibilities as president of the NORSU system.

Questions from the Norsunian community started to flare. Was the university president really suspended? If so, why did he remain in his office? In an earlier interview with The NORSUnian (TN), Sojor also refrained to give official comment on the issue due to the sub judice rule, a principle in law which prohibits litigants from discussing the merits of a case in public because it may influence the result of the litigation.

The queries were finally answered when Sojor released a special memorandum circular on January 15 this year stating that “as an act of responsible leadership”, he “voluntarily submits to the Civil Service Commission (CSC) Order of Preventive Suspension without prejudice to the outcome of the appeal therefrom.” Effective February 9, 2009, Sojor temporarily left his position and upon his recommendation, the NORSU Board of Regents (BOR) designated NORSU Vice President for Academic Affairs Victoria P. Dinopol as Officer-in-Charge of the university during his absence.

Looking at the issue, Sojor’s decision of submitting to CSC’s suspension order is the right action for a leader. It did not only answer all the questions thrown about his suspension and it did not only stop the various hearsays and perceptions, but it also gave him an avenue to clear his name with the allegations against him. For a leader, especially in a big university like NORSU, it is very important to continue enjoying the trust of most, if not all of the members of its community.

But of course, his submission to CSC does not make him instantly safe or cleared from the allegations against him. On the other hand, his action does not also mean that he is already guilty. Preventive suspension is not also a penalty or punishment. Let everyone be reminded that the university president is not yet proven guilty with the allegations and that the purpose of the 90-day preventive suspension is for the subject to be prevented from doing things that may influence the integrity of the probe.

For now, it’s too early to give judgment to Sojor. Let the CSC investigate first and rule over the case. If Sojor would be found guilty in the end, then let the axe of legal consequence fall on him. But if the accusers fail to prove their accusations, Sojor should continue his presidency of NORSU and the university’s journey with him until 2012 should go on.

Let us wait and let CSC do its work.

Hopefully

2009-02-17T18:56:00.000-08:00

By Christian Edu Villegas

(Vol. XXVI No. 11, Editorial Cartoon)

Hopefully

It’s been more than a month now since every one of us in this planet welcomed the year 2009, the Year of the Earth Ox, with high hopes and positive expectations. It’s been already a while since we started the journey in making new pages to compile another chapter of the history. It’s been sometime since we closed that chapter filled with hues and colors – the year 2008.

Looking back, for Negros Oriental State University (NORSU), the year 2008 had been a healthy chapter of its history. The university had been through a lot of transformations. New teachers and faculty members had been added to the university’s teaching and working force; the dress code policy was implemented; the construction of the College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences building started; the university gate of Main Campus I was restructured; the blue guards took in-charge of the university’s security; the university started adapting the e-System – these were only some of the remarkable improvements embraced by the Norsunian community last year.

Along with these transformations are achievements that added significant pages to the history of NORSU. The year 2008 was a year of accomplishments for Norsunians, especially in topping national licensure examinations. It’s a year of adding laurels to the university and extending the long list of Norsunian achievers in the history.

To recall, on the May 2008 Civil Engineering Licensure Examination, Engr. Bernard Duran Jr. was named as the 5th top passer. Two months after Duran joined the list of topnotchers, another two Norsunians proved that the products of the university are of high calibers. The names of Engr. John Michael Villagonzalo and Engr. Christian George Pal-ing were placed on the 2nd and 5th spots, respectively, in the August 2008 Master Plumber Examination.

On September 2008, Catherine Capilla, a graduate of Bachelor of Elementary Education major in Special Education, ranked 10th in the Licensure Examination for Teachers. Capilla, who ranked first in the region and top ten nationwide, is the first Norsunian in history who was included in the top ten LET passers. The triumphs continued. On October 2008, two Norsunians made it to the top ten of the Mechanical Engineering Licensure Examination. Engr. Winston Gomez landed in the second top spot of the exam while Engr. Jephunneh Paalisbo was the 7th top passer.

These accomplishments, which were the highlights of 2008, are pages of the history that each Norsunian should be proud of. Despite the fact that there is an evident lack of facilities and equipment in the university, it is very inspiring to know that Norsunians excel as one of the bests and the finest in the nation.

That chapter had ended and here goes the university and the whole NORSU family paving pages of another chapter to NORSU’s history. As we look back to last year and continue journeying, it is not bad to hope for this year to have an increase in the record of achievers. It is not bad to cross our fingers that this year, like last year, would be another chapter of remarkable achievements for Norsunians – of showing what really a true-blue Norsunian can be.

More than that, it is not bad to hope that somehow, some longings of the students for equipment and facilities would finally be realized. It is not bad to pray that hopefully, the students’ concerns would be the main priority this year because if Norsunians did more with less, they could do more with adequate facilities and equipment.

Have a happy journey to 2009 everyone!

Sa paglipas ng panahon...

2008-11-21T07:29:00.000-08:00

By Ren Angelo Elevera
(Vol. XXVI No. 9, Editorial Cartoon)

Sa paglipas ng panahon...

Ang wika ay kaluluwa ng isang bansa. Bawat bansang malaya ay may kanya-kanyang wika. Ang Pilipinas, na itunuturing na isa sa mga ito, ay may sarili ring wika. Ito ay ang Wikang Filipino.

Iilang buwan na rin ang nakalipas nang ipagdiwang ng Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) ang Buwan ng Wika. Sa halip na buwanang pagdiriwang, ito ay idinaos sa loob ng isang araw na lamang noong ika-20 ng Agosto sa pamamagitan ng mga patimpalak gaya ng comical skit at katutubong sayaw.

Naging matagumpay man ang paggunita ng unibersidad sa Buwan ng Wika, hindi pa rin natin maitatanggi na ang pagdiriwang ngayon ay payak na lamang kung ihahambing noong mga nakaraang taon. Naging kasiya-siya man ang ginawang selebrasyon, hindi naman ito naging sapat upang lubusang tumatak sa isipan ng lahat ang nais ipahiwatig ng pagdiriwang.

Noong mga nagdaang taon, hindi maipagkakailang mas masaya at mas pinaghandaan ang pagdiriwang ng Buwan ng Wika dito sa NORSU. Iilan sa mga pinaghandaang palatuntunan na itinampok noon ay ang paligsahan sa pagkukwento, madulang sayaw, talumpati, sabayang pagbigkas, at katutubong sayaw. Noon ay mayroon ding mga dulang may iisang yugto, at may ginawang pagpili ng Lakan at Lakambini ng Wika. Mayroon pa ngang tabo sa banay at mga paligsahan sa katutubong laro na noo’y nilahukan ng mga mag-aaral.

Mapapansing habang lumilipas ang panahon ay unti-unting nawawalan ng tingkad ang dating makulay na selebrasyon. Bakit unti-unting nagiging tahimik ang dati’y siksik na siksik sa saya na pagdiriwang ng Buwan ng Wika? Bakit mula sa mahabang hanay ng mga palatuntunan noon, dalawa o tatlong programa na lamang ang natira?

Hindi naman natin masisisi ang Departamento ng Filipino dahil makatarungan naman ang kanilang mga dahilan kung bakit naging simple na lamang ang pagdiriwang ng Buwan ng Wika ngayong taon.

Ang kawalan ng badyet, ay isa sa mga pangunahing dahilan. Ang mas magarang selebrasyon ay mangangahulugang mas malaki ang perang magagamit, na mangangahulugan ding mas mabigat para sa bulsa ng mga estudyanteng kumukuha ng asignaturang Filipino ang gagawing paggunita. Pangalawa, maaantala ang klase kung gagawing mas matagal ang selebrasyon.

Tama nga naman– naging praktikal lamang ang departamento na isipin ang kapakanan ng mga estudyante.

Ngunit sa kabilang banda, hindi natin maiiwasang magtanong: Paano naman natin bubuhayin ang unti-unti nang namamatay na larawan ng wika at kulturang Pilipino kung hindi naman natin magawang ipadama sa mas nakakaraming estudyante ang tunay na diwa ng selebrasyon? Paano mararamdaman ng mga mag-aaral ang nais ipahiwatig ng pagdiriwang kung hindi nga nila halos mapansin? Mayroon ngang nanood sa payak na pagdiriwang ngunit hindi pa rin maitatangging mas marami ang nagsawalang bahala dito.

Hindi ba maaaring pagsabayin ang pagtitipid at ang isang matingkad na pagdiriwang? Wala na bang paraan upang maibalik ang dating nakaka-agaw pansin na pagdiriwang na hindi magiging mabigat sa bulsa ng mga estudyante at hindi nakakaantala sa kanilang mga klase? Sa panahon ngayon, hindi na nga ba praktikal ang magdaos ng isang magarbo at makulay na Buwan ng Wika?

Sana ay maari pa. Sana ay may paraan pa. Bakit? Dahil ang isang maingay, matingkad at makabuluhang pagdiriwang ang siyang pupukaw sa damdamin ng mga mag-aaral– damdaming dapat pahalagahan ang tunay na kabuluhan ng kultura at wikang Filipino.

Preparedness

2008-10-23T06:52:00.001-07:00

By Christian Edu Villegas
(Vol. XXVI No. 8, Editorial Cartoon)

Preparedness
In the next few months, Negros Oriental State University(NORSU) will finally be producing new sets of pioneering graduates.

The courses, which were born four years ago–BS Accountancy, BS Business Administration, BS Nursing, and BS Pharmacy, will finally show to the world the Norsunian version of these offshoots.

It maybe is too early to talk about graduation. But as early as now, the present situation of these pioneering students should be diagnosed so at least, if something is left undone, it can be ironed out in the little time left. In a random interview done by The NORSUnian with the pioneering students to find out whether they are ready or not to face the life outside the pylons of NORSU, not all of them nodded with confidence that they are ready to face the real world of their course.

The interviews showed that some Norsunians are not yet ready to tread out of the pylons of NORSU because they lack trainings and hands-on exposures in most of their courses. Some are not yet prepared to adhere to the incoming changes when they go out of the university. This is because, according to the respondents, they are just fed with theories and not actual demonstrations which could have helped them better than just plain classroom meetings and discussions. Others, on the other hand, are not yet ready to practice what they have learned because these are still insufficient to cover the real scope of the job that they will be doing in the outside world.

Despite the sad reality that not every Norsunian is prepared enough to graduate, some still believe that it depends on their ability to use the most of what they have learned in school. Others say that the teachers and their discussions plus the curricula that they are following are enough to equip them with knowledge for their chosen fields. Students are well-motivated to strive hard and help themselves succeed in the outside world.

These motivations are good because at least, students become enthusiastic to strive hard and be successful outside NORSU. But, it could have been better if students are exposed to the things that will help them survive their courses with full confidence of making it to the world- rather than just feeding them with pure speculations. And though the university offers good quality education, it still lacks equipment and facilities to support the students’ learnings. This has been a problem since time immemorial and it will continue to be one if nobody will pay attention to it. This problem with the lack of facilities and hands-on materials for every department in NORSU is turning into one of the major reasons why students say that they are not yet prepared to do the work outside.

There may be courses here which are given full attention with regard to the facilities they need for their departments, lucky are students who took up these courses. But, how about those who belong to the least-attended departments? How are they going to get ready for the challenges that the real world will bombard them if they are not even given attention adequate for their learning?

This problem should have been answered a long time ago because it will only worsen as the years pass by. The lack of support for “important, appropriate and usable” classroom facilities and equipment should have been one of the university’s main focus because it would help the students more effectively than supplying with a lot of projects that are, oftentimes, for our “eyes’ only.

This is also the reason why Norsunians are not that confident to face the world. Because students are fed only with theories and books (which are barely enough), and a number of facilities (which could only be used during accreditations and need a lot of request letters before usage), it is no longer questionable why students who are graduating this year are not prepared.

Education is supposed to be a right that should be given justification, not a privilege of lack and insufficiency. Thus, to have the best education that will prepare the students to share their knowledge outside NORSU would be the best thing that the university could give. This is becoming a hope against hope- that sooner, before the students step out of the university, they could proudly say that they are completely ready.

If this happens, maybe ALL and not just SOME of the Norsunians will be geared up to face the world outside. If it does not, then, it goes without saying that no student will ever be fully ready to step out of this university.

The True State of the Nation

2008-10-23T06:48:00.000-07:00

By Karl Sheen Ates
(Vol. XXVI No. 7, Editorial Cartoon)

The True State of the Nation

“We have come too far and made too many sacrifices to turn back now on fiscal reforms. Leadership is not about doing the first easy thing that comes to mind; it is about doing what is necessary, however hard.”

Thus, said President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (GMA) in her 58-minute State of the Nation Address (Sona) last July 29, 2008, interrupted 104 times by the applause from her allies in the Congress.

Analyzing GMA’s fourth Sona after she assumed the position in 2004 and the eighth since she took over former President Joseph Estrada’s administration in 2000, it is very apparent that instead of laying the true state of the nation, what she did was to deliver her general situation report on the economic and political condition of the nation that tells of the accomplishments of the government in the preceding year. More than a report to the people, it appears more to be a report of the accomplishments under her administration and what auxiliary legislation and judicial actions may be needed to attain her administration’s objectives for the coming year.

A Pulse Asia survey showed that only 14 percent of the Filipino people expected the Sona to be truthful. With these findings, we cannot help but wonder: Is the recent Sona of GMA credible? To be fair, the Sona should be credible enough because they have thousands of supplementary documents to support their specific claimed accomplishments that can be easily verified. The accomplishments that were tackled are really factual. What can put it to ridicule is if certain aspects of what was promised in the previous Sona was not realized and fulfilled.

But then, weighing over the credibility of the Sona would still always depend on one’s political orientation – whether he or she is pro or anti-administration. If the GMA administration failed to fulfill its promises in the previous Sona, her supporters can always say that the failure will be attributed to something beyond the control of the administration or circumstances beyond reasonable expectations. On the other hand, for the anti-GMA, no amount of excuses will do and no explanations are needed.

Sona is credible insofar as it concerns the specifics of accomplishments. On the other hand, it does not represent the true state of the nation. Why?

It is simply because the true state of the nation address should have focused on the real issues that concerned the Filipino people. Issues on poverty, hunger, crime rate, employment, education, health, justice, and most especially, corruption, should have been the center of GMA’s Sona. These burning issues that befuddled the nation for so long must be answered, not ignored. These must be given attention.

GMA, being too optimistic, overlooked that the following is the true state of the nation: A Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey said that after eight years under GMA’s administration, 50 percent of the population of 88.6 million rate themselves “poor” in March 2008. In another survey of SWS in June 2008, it was found out that about 2.9 million families or 14.5 million people experienced involuntary hunger between April and June.

As to the crime rate, although the Philippine National Police authorities claimed that the total crime volume in the past three months of the year decreased, an SWS survey published last February said that 10.5 percent of Filipino families lost properties in a house break-in; 8.6 percent encountered pickpockets; 1.9 percent had their vehicles stolen; and 1.3 percent suffered physical violence. In health, Asian Development Bank reported that despite the presence of a few modern medical centers, health conditions in the Philippines remain the poorest in East Asia with an estimation of one doctor for every 9,689 people and only one hospital for every 809 patients.

Moreover, in the area of corruption, the Philippines appeared No.1 in Asia. A World Bank study released in June said that the Philippines is now at the bottom of the list of East Asia’s 10 largest economies when it comes to control of corruption, edging out Indonesia which scored the worst in the region in the 2007 survey. It was estimated that the Philippines loses more than $2 billion (about P88 billion) a year to corruption.

These representative figures should give us a general picture of the true state of the nation today. Unless, these issues are addressed in the Sona, the report of the President will be taken as nothing more than self-praise and window-dressing. To quote famous American football coach John Madden, “Self-praise is for losers. Always have class and be humble.”

Late Aid!

2008-10-23T06:45:00.000-07:00

By Ren Angelo Elevera
(Vol. XXVI No. 6, Editorial Cartoon)

Late Aid!

When the proper dressing policy was implemented on June 16 of this school year, it confused and caused inconvenience to a lot of students who were barred by the guards at the gate area.

There had been no clear guidelines as to what types of clothes were admissible inside the campus and what were not. Students since then complained about its vague guidelines and the way it was implemented.

In an attempt to answer the queries of the students, The NORSUnian took the initiative of interviewing University President Henry A. Sojor regarding the issue. In the interview, the university president said that there had been no agreed guidelines yet as to the exact standard of dressing because it is the Student Government (SG) who should be formulating it. Sojor explained that it is the SG who will make the memorandum and that, he will only approve it. Sojor said that while no standard is formulated yet, they will be implementing the policy according to their “standard” of decency.

It has been a month now since the policy was implemented and weeks since the explanation of the university president was published in the student publication; and yet, the confusion goes on. For more than a month since the confusion started, there had been no move from the SG, not even a simple clarification about the policy.

According to the SGDCI President, the SG recently busied themselves in preparing the guidelines of proper dressing, currently securing the signatures of respective university heads. But it is still questionable why their move is too delayed. SG should have exercised this move the moment the confusion arose. Matters that concern the students should always concern the SG because they exist for the students. They do not need to be hit first before they do something about issues that should have been addressed to a long time ago.

It is worth reminding that the SG was created to represent the student body and are supposed to serve as the voice of the students. However, for the past years now, it is quite evident that the SG is not living up to what is expected of them. The role of the SG is not only limited to providing projects and organizing programs because, in the first place, they were elected to become leaders and not just event organizers.

Supposedly, SG should serve as the mediator between the administration and the students. It is their responsibility to voice the students’ complaints to the administration. The SG has the responsibility to champion the cause of the students and to at least clarify issues like the dress code policy, which caused a lot of confusion to the students ever since its implementation.

The SG had been silent for so long now and it is high time they wake up and face the very reason why the students placed them in their positions. The SG is the voice of the students, but this voice is still yet to be heard. Hopefully, the prescribed dress code will be defined clearly through SG’s effort in the coming days, now that a memorandum had been processed. A lot of students have already suffered and if ever the dress code will finally be defined, well, it would still be a relief to the students – but a staled one already.

SG officers should not procrastinate in aiding problems that concern the studentry because after all, the students put them there.