WHAT IF?

By Karlo Billy Rubia

(Vol.XXX  Issue No. 6, Editorial Cartoon)

Our university on the previous school year has faced myriad of issues. One of those issues include the expensive amount collected for college funds. Many parents claimed that the said fees were too big for a public university like NORSU. Former SGDC-I President Norelyn Talorete immediately appealed to the president’s office, even to other powerful personalitites in order to make a move about it and after series of meetings and talks, the administration has finally approved to cut down the funds and do some refund for the excessed payments. Students were very happy. Some were thankful for they can at least return the refunded money to their beloved parents. Others jumped for joy for they can perhaps keep the money for good.

            But this good news has sacrificed a lot in terms of the college’s projects and activities. Many Norsunians would complain why there were few programs and activities especially during founders week, well, that simply answers it!

            Another problem emerged on the later part of the second semester wherein one of the college governors who was running for SGDC president was alleged to have personally used the money of their own college. Many were shocked! Especially when the university president announced it during the awarding of honor students. However, what shocked the students most was when the latter won the election. Other students even thought there was sabotage during the election. But no! There was none! The election was peaceful. The results were duly based on the electors’ number of votes.

            Now tell us! Does he really deserve the position? Yes he does! That’s what you answered based on your votes. We just hope you had voted what you think was right, because if not, then you already know what the possible consequences are.

            The third and the biggest problem the university specifically the administration has faced was when the students initiated a rally last ______________. First two aforementioned problems were some of the reasons for the unfriendly act. Other reasons include the alleged corrupt and puppets of the administration, removal of some trusted NORSU staffs ______.

            Said rally was led by some of the powerful student body officers which made it more influential to everyone’s eyes. We say it was partly right and partly wrong. Partly right for it is the students right to express their sentiments towards the administration’s disruptive leadership. And partly wrong because it has dented the image of our university. Since it was aired by the media, many were informed what NORSU really is and what kind of leaders and students it has.

            We wrote this editorial not to favor the admin nor the students. We hear both sides. We balance things. Thus, we believe we are in one family. Yes! We all have the freedom of expression yet that does not give us the reason to create a war between ourselves. Everything can always be solved with a peaceful talk or assembly.

            Students sometime feel they have been neglected by the administration especially by the president because they think he has not allotted time for them. Or perhaps, they were wrong, the president has tried his best to serve yet it was covered up the wrong moves he has made.

            It is just the start of the new school year. What if we give each other a chance? What if we change our perceptions towards each other? What if we work hand-in-hand in establishing a good image for our university? Surely, NORSU aside from being one of the best learning institutions, will also be a school of disciplined people.

Not too late!

EDITORIAL

Not too late!

(Vol. XXXI Issue No. 2)

“Everyday is research day, accreditation day and quality service day”. Hence, each and everyone as expected by the university president, should work stiffer in meeting the requirements as set by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

Lately, our university president has signed a memorandum of agreement containing the partnership between NORSU and three Non-Government Organizations (NGOs). These NGOs namely Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO) Bahaginan , Gawad Kalinga (GK)  and  Saceda Youth Lead (SYL) will serve as partners of NORSU for the entire year.

The Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO) is a non-government organization that allows people to impart their skills, build capabilities, and promote international understanding and action towards changing the world into a fairer place for all.

On the other hand, Gawad Kalinga (GK) Community Development Foundation is a Philippine-based poverty alleviation and nation-building movement. GK was able to launch the Isang Milyong Bayani program wherein volunteers from various nations donate 4 hours of their work per month in order to assist in some community-based activities. GK also offers programs including Child and Youth Development, Community Building, Green Kalinga, Bayan-Anihan, GK Kalusugan Community Infrastructure and Center for Social Innovation.

Completing the three new partners of NORSU is the Saceda Youth Lead (SYL) which gathers teachers, student leaders, NGO workers and leadership practitioners from all over the Philippines and Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN). SYL aims to identify and discuss the societal issues and challenges that affect basic education.

Indeed, we commend the idea of this newly partnership! These NGOs are truly helpful to some certain degrees.  First, it calls for a professional involvement among teachers and students. Second, this would encourage Norsunians especially the teachers to take part as volunteers for international linkages. Lastly, this would uplift the university’s social welfare and external relations thus supporting the area number six of the accreditation requirements which is—the extension and community involvement.

As of the press time, Negros Oriental State University becomes a low performing school on the public’s eyesight due to several programs of the university that were recently downgraded by the  Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities (AACUP). In fact, it is said that those downgraded programs must substantially attain the level of excellence (level 4) by year 2016; otherwise, they will be subjected to immediate closure.

Year 2016 is yet far to go, therefore, it is not too late! As we see, the newly held partnership serves as one of the plus factors in accreditation. Well, that was just area number six. There are still other areas that are to be improved. We believe that with the cooperation of the admin, faculty and staff and students, we will be able to save our university’s reputation. This is a school for “poor and deserving” students and we want that our future children and grandchildren to still could afford enrolling in this school that provides “quality education”.

T he ‘Scarface’ Rule

By Ranulfo Repe

(Vol.XXX  Issue No. 6, Editorial Cartoon)

If you are a returnee—sophomore, junior, or senior student—of this university, you could have remembered the infamous face of the tall, dark, and…never mind…security guard who usually lifts his shoulders like a robust master of the gate. He was a policeman who confiscates unworn IDs, a fashion critic who prohibits students wearing sleeveless blouses and slippers to enter, and an icon of enragement to the students for his unwanted aura. He was better known as ‘Scarface.’ Rude right?

But he is nowhere to be found now. It could either be because of the insistent demand of the students to have him ousted or because of another issue, which we do not know.

Whether he is still working as a security guard right now in another institution or not, a security guard like him must surely be re-employed in this institution. You might protest and contest this idea, but you should hear this out.

When ‘Scarface’ left the university before the start of this semester, we could see some Norsunians entering the premises of this institution in not-so-appealing attires. If you are aware of the decency this university observes in terms of the dress code, then you have the idea that wearing sleeveless blouses, mini-skirts, and slippers inside the university are not advisable. In fact, these are the apparels that will never pass in the standards of ‘Scarface’ when it was his time to stand in front of the entrance gate, which is also the right thing to do.

Though there was a ruckus last school year on how this impolite security guard implemented the rule, it seems that there is a need for the strict re-implementation of the dress code. There have already been a good number of Norsunians who were spotted wearing slippers, sleeveless blouses, very short pants, and mini-skirts inside the university—attires that look less of an educated man who claims to be studying in a university.

Moreover, we ask the committee in-charge to strictly implement the dress code policy or more so, pass a memorandum specifically stating the shoulds and should nots of the policy. The realization of this already-sabotaged-dress-code is what this university needs, not only because this has been what was done in the past, but because this is what we believe is right and proper for university students like us.

Not a Recreation Station

By Karlo Billy Rubia

(Vol.XXX  Issue No. 5, Editorial Cartoon)

The 30-hour use of the Internet Research Station (IRS) located at the fourth floor of the College of Arts and Sciences building per semester is one of the many benefits a Norsunian can enjoy after enrolling himself in this university. The research station provides access to students to the internet and search for random facts which are of great help to their education. The computers can be used by all registeread Norsunians for making their projects and creating presentations using the many features of its software.

However, it seems like the aforementioned are not the only reasons why the IRS is opened for students access. After overcoming the past issues on slow internet connection, dirty PCs, unaccommodating personnel, and unauthorized access to social networking sites, the personnel of the said research station are yet again faced with complaints from dissatisfied and confused students.

Aside from research purposes, the computers are also used for gaming and movie watching. During the students free time, some of them would make use of their 30-hour budget just for entertainment. Behind this scenario is the disturbing fact that the IRS personnel are allowing the students to play computer games and watch movies as long as they do not flock in one unit and make unnecessary noise. Other students whose intention of researching for their school projects and assignments are left with no choice but to wait for these people to finish playing before they can use a PC. It would just be quite disrespectful if the IRS personnel would tell a student to log-out to give way to another student.

Other students reasoned out that instead of researching for their school lessons, they would just resort to gaming and movie watching because some of the PCs do not have internet connections. This is another dilemma the IRS personnel should take into account.

In the first place, why are the IRS personnel allowing the students to use the computers for gaming and movie watching? Who gave them the authority to have those PCs opened for entertainment purposes? Did they not know what the IRS mean? Obviously it does not mean Internet Recreation Station, but Internet Research Station. The two are very much different.

With all the students airing their concern about the inappropriate of the IRS, which has seemingly turned into a recreation site rather than a research station, we hope that the personnel assigned would do something to address this predicament. We do not want the students to get discouraged with the facilities of this university which were built for the improvement of their academic performance.

This is a university which aims at empowering students through providing competent instructors and sufficient facilities. If these facilities are not properly used according to its purpose, then there is no reason for us to use it anymore.

Have you forgotten?

By Cheeno M. Luang

(Vol.XXX  Issue No. 4, Editorial Cartoon)

They have sworn the oath of leadership during the Negros Oriental State University’s (NORSU) 8th Charter Day Anniversary. Together with this oath is their assurance to the studentry that they can put their full trust and aspiration to this chosen body. The new student leaders of this institution will have their chances to showcase their leadership skills in their respective colleges, and NORSU in general, in the way they want it to be.

Every student leader must be equipped with skills that make up a good leader. In the first place, that is one essential reason why the students voted them as their new leaders. It is also expected of them to at least realize the projects that they have presented in their platforms during the campaign period.

But before we judge them, let us first take a look at some of the student leaders’ plans for this school year. College of Business and Administration (CBA) Governor Stephen Villegas said that he will install ceiling fans in the CBA’s 3rd floor rooms, construct comfort rooms and a mini-library.

Meanwhile, College of Tourism and Hospitality Management Governor Juan dela Cruz said that his plans include putting up sign boards and trash bins around their premises. Michael Vincent Tubog, College of Arts and Sciences governor, articulated that he plans to construct a mini-library and audio boxes for special announcements.

Other college governors are also having plans of beautifying, improving, and redefining their respective colleges.
However, some of these plans are abstract and the realization of these lie in the hands of our present college governors—plans that remain in the tip of the tongues of these leaders, plans that remain drafts of an unattended official. We, the students, are witnesses of this kind of “false hope” years ago. Needless to say, some of our student leaders are creating plans just to impress the voting body in order for them to be in the position they are in.

Some student leaders visualize plans that are too superficial and idealistic. In the long run, they will realize that it is difficult for them to accomplish such because of too many things to consider before it is realized. This scenario has happened two or three years ago when the former Student Government of Dumaguete City–I (SGDC–I) President Christopher Don Catacutan envisioned the construction of a mini-chapel inside the university. This is just too impractical and a financially-absurd move since this plan requires money, money and more money.

More recently, former SGDC–I President Angelo Nabalse promised to roof the open-court. This is in order to give students and teachers a more convenient place to hold their classes in. However, nothing happened and his plan vanished into thin air.

Both student leaders are examples of people who have pledged before their co-learners of a better university, a better governance. But seemingly, they have planned too much and they forgot that their plans need a bigger monetary budget.

Now that our local student leaders are already making and visualizing some of their plans for the benefit of everyone, we just hope that these young leaders will use their minds to critically analyze the promises that they have made. Likewise, they must see to it that they are creating plans that are budget-friendly, achievable within a short-time frame, realistic, and a 100 percent factual.

Of Responsibility and Discipline

By Arvin V. Rodriguez

(Vol.XXX  Issue No. 3, Editorial Cartoon)

For an institution like the Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) whose actual training ground for students are held within the country and the scope of engaging in the definite world focuses on local involvement, perhaps holding an on-the-job training (OJT) abroad is a splendid avenue to develop one’s ability better. 

Just recently, companies from Malaysia and Singapore, through Southland College Vice President for International Cooperation and Research Vince Sinining and University President Henry A. Sojor, came up with an idea of sending NORSU Engineering and Industrial technology students abroad to work, learn and at the same time, earn.

Sinining has chosen NORSU among other universities and colleges across the country since he found the students appearing on national news and topping board examinations. He believes that when students are introduced further to actual job involvement, they will be ready to face the real world in the future. 

This development deserves praise for boldly taking higher steps in advancing students’ actual learning experience. If the proposed plan happens, students’ participation on the international field will solicit remarkable optimisim for future jobs. With this, students must be thankful to the administration, to Sinining and to the companies for giving them the opportunity.

We can say that students are given the chance to enhance their skills which are focused on performing real job tasks but this does not mean that they can learn everything from the training since there are no structured lesson guides on the workplace. 

Hence, students must perform well because this opportunity calls for dignity and moral discipline. Students must employ their skills that would improve their knowledge on real-life experiences. They must follow proper guidelines set by the company in order for them to acquire necessary learning and to adapt to the environment and last long. More so, they must impose good values on themselves so as to sustain delegated objectives and when they are given complex tasks, they can accomplish them effectively and efficiently because they have already mastered the routine. 

Students who will attend this international job training must value even the simplest thing in the workplace. This would keep them going despite downfalls. When they are given complex rule, they can still manage it since they have already mastered basic tasks on the training. And when they set things at the valuing level, they can achieve what they desire. 

Thus, we hope that these students to be sent abroad for on-the-job training will show what they are capable of in such a way that they can bring NORSU’s name to international prominence and that they will use what they have learned for the common good of the people in general and the university in particular. 

Ambitious but Possible

By Paul Anthony M. Eso

(Vol.XXX  Issue No. 2, Editorial Cartoon)

If Negros Oriental State University is a human body, the administration has undoubtedly made the university look outstanding on the outside. We are talking about the tall buildings, renovation of classrooms, admirable colors repainted unto the walls, brick-floored entrance, the not-so spacious canteen, and the hundreds of computers acquired to give students an avenue for learning.

All these things are good. All these things are so good to be true. The university has never looked so admirable since the last four years. But some things were left unattended. Some stones were left unturned. They have forgotten how untidy our premises have become.

Students can testify to how uncomfortable our comfort rooms are every time we walk in for some quick-releasing of used body fluids. Freshmen in the first place have been welcomed by the odorous smell coming from these rooms. Water supply has been a constant problem since last year and the odorous smell caused ruckus to many Norsunians. This is not the kind of school we wanted.

Garbage are dumped everywhere. Hills of trashes are evident on certain areas near the Administration, College of Business and Accountancy, and College of Industrial Technology buildings. These university-areas-turned-dump-site have existed long before the 2012 graduates enrolled in this university. This is not the kind of school we wanted.

NORSU delivers high-class education. No doubt. But top-rate educational instruction should be accompanied with a clean and green environment conducive for learning. These two must come together as one. When one of them is out of the picture, there is a big problem. 

But the university officials responsible for this should not get all the blame. After all, it is us students who often use the comfort rooms. It is us who cause these rooms to get dirty and smelly. The garbage hills around the campus are the products of our own doing.

The trashes stuck in there are the remains of our happy eating at the canteen. The wrecked chairs and tables in there are proofs of our ignorance after we break each chair, one after the other. A regular city garbage truck cannot carry all the junk that we have.

With this, we suggest that we set a date at the calendar “ a special date where all Norsunians will have the chance to work hand in hand in solving out this problem, a day that each of us will have his or her own share of picking up the garbage he/she once threw in the trash bin and shovel it into the garbage truck. As for the water supply, we ask the higher-ups to install water tanks in every comfort room.

This idea requires long-time planning, and a few garbage trucks are needed to clean up the whole NORSU area. This idea is nothing but ambitious. Yet everything is possible. We can borrow garbage trucks from neighboring municipalities and ask them to help us with this one.

Again, everything is possible. The Local Government Unit and the Norsunians working together towards one cause has never sounded so good.

This is also a call for the NORSU administration and for the Student Government. This is just a suggestion. Any better ideas that will be presented are very much welcome. Since this is your job, this is also our job. All Norsunians await for your call for a cleaner and greener NORSU community. 

Partly a part, partly apart

By Ranulfo Repe

(Vol.XXX  Issue No. 1, Editorial Cartoon)

We have finally come to the dawning of a new school year. The university is pleased to welcome all freshmen, transferees, and returnees with a wide smile. With a sure increase of enrollees, it could be said that Negros Oriental State University is an institution no lesser than other high-class universities in the province.
But how does it really feel like to be a true-blue Norsunian?
Evidently, there are a lot of students who seem to have successfully enrolled themselves in NORSU but have not really felt the essence of being one. Perhaps, here is the answer to that.
Being apart. It is quite a sad thing to still see a lot of students who remain lax and indifferent about the events happening around them. They are consciously aware of some anomalies and probably misconduct of some administrator or faculty member yet they remain mute. They are witnesses to acts that order on abuse by some teachers, yet they act blind and pretend not to see the real picture.  They are aware that they have the abilities and skills that they can use for the common good yet they remain secretive, saying that they are shy or that their skills and talents are nothing compared to others. They are students with capabilities, strength, power and knowledge to make a difference for themselves and for the community yet they remain ignorant, indefinite and unsure.
Be a part. It is high time that all students become a part of something that benefit themselves and the people around them. This state university is a good ground for excellence in almost all fields. Various organizations, institutions and small groups have been put up for the empowerment of students.
We have the Kabilin Dance troupe for aspiring dancers, the Kabilin Choir for golden voices and the Kabilin Band for music makers. We also have The NORSUnian, the official weekly student publication of Negros Oriental State University, an institution that seeks to fight for the welfare and rights of students thru paper and pen. At the same time, the institution hones the writing, drawing, and photography skills of students. Then, we have The Pylon, the official yearbook of Negros Oriental State University, which seek to empower students thru developing the graphics designing and writing skills of individuals, among others. We have more or less fifty organizations under the League of Student Organizations in the academic, religious and special interest categories.
There are a lot to choose from. Unless you have not graduated yet, you still have all the chances in the world to participate and be a catalyst of change. We assure you it is all worth the effort and sweat, knowing that you have become a part of something, be it an organization, institution, or group.
This academic year 2012-2013 opens with a lot of opportunities offered for you. It is for you to decide – to remain apart, or to be a part.

Beyond Words

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.