Wanted TFP Models: MC310 Class

My photography class will have a photoshoot this Saturday, 2 August 2008, 1PM-5PM at 5th Floor (MC Lab/ Production Room) Finster Hall, Ateneo de Davao University. Interested models who want to have TFP sessions, please go to mc310bp.multiply.com and send PM.

Many photographers, models, makeup artists, and so forth do shoots on a “TFP” basis. Some do strictly TFP, some do a mix of TFP and pay shoots. What should you expect from a photographer who wants to shoot TFP? What exactly is TFP?

TFP stands for one or more of the following:

Time For Prints	Time For Portfolio
Trade For Prints	Trade For Portfolio

You will also see digital shooters use the phrase “TFCD” or “TFP/CD.” These mean:

Time/Trade for CD

Time/Trade for Prints/CD

Whatever the particular phrase the letters stand for, the basic idea is simple: In a TFP shoot, no money changes hands. The model doesn’t get an hourly or session fee, and the photographer doesn’t get an hourly fee, a session fee, or any pay for providing the model with prints and/or digital images (the “CD” part – usually the model gets a CD-R with her image selection burned onto it.) All participants are doing the shoot in hopes of getting good quality images for their portfolios, which they can use for self-promotion to get more, and hopefully paying, work.

TFP is usually the domain of amateur photographers and/or beginning models, although many pros will do a TFP shoot with an amateur model (or an amateur photographer) who can’t pay their usual rates but whose look or previous work the professional finds intriguing. That doesn’t mean that outstanding work can’t be produced at a TFP shoot: many amateur photographers are “amateurs” only in that photography is not how they pay their bills, and have talent and equipment equal to most professional photographers. Images obtained through TFP sessions are in many a model’s portfolio and have earned many a callback from an agency or pro shooter.

What a model should expect from a TFP shoot:

1) A friendly, professional demeanor from the photographer. Even if the photographer is an amateur, or a beginner, that’s no excuse for not treating the model as the valuable contributor to their work that she is.

2) Work that is a reasonable approximation of the photographer’s talent and expertise. TFP is not “second-class” photography and it should be of good quality.

3) A signed release specifying what the model is to receive as her compensation in the form of prints or digital images. This protects both the photographer and the model by making their rights and obligations clear to each other.

What a model should not expect from a TFP shoot:

1) Any money. That includes revenue from later sale or license of the photographs in most cases. Many photographers have a policy of giving the model some percentage of revenue from such sales or licenses, but unless the model is a pro and the photographer is not, this is not something the model usually demands. It is more in the nature of a pleasant bonus.

That being said, I would like to address a disturbing trend which has developed in the "Internet" modeling world and is starting to cross over into lower-budget print modeling: "Commercial TFP." This is where a client seeks a model (or a photographer) for advertising or other commercial usage but only wants to pay in "tears" and/or prints as opposed to compensation in money or at least in desirable products and services (it's quite common for models to get paid with a designer dress for walking the runway at Fashion Week, for instance, and while they're harder to spend than cash designer dresses are certainly not something to idly turn down.)

In my opinion, commercial use is not an appropriate venue for TFP because it's bad for models, and photographers, and makeup artists, et cetera, to give other people the means to make money from their work without getting money in return. Trade for portfolio, fine. Trade for art, fine. Trade, or work cheap, for an editorial tear, fine. But the line should be drawn at trading for commercial advertising use. It results in an inferior product and diminishes the overall power of models and photographers with relation to commercial clients.

If you're good enough to be in an ad, you're good enough to get paid. Now if a client has no budget to pay a model for an ad, I can sympathize, and I don't blame somebody for trying to get the best deal they can for themselves. But I don't have the money for a Lamborghini, and I suspect that this fact will be notably unhelpful if I try to use it as the justification as to why the dealer should give me one for free. Nor is "experience" or "exposure" a good reason to do commercial work. You need experience and exposure to get commercial work. Once you've got good enough to be in commercial work, it's reasonable to require some economic benefit for yourself in exchange for the economic benefit you provide.

2) Unlimited rights to the photographs. It is the law in most countries that photographs are the property of the photographer. The model may have the right to have some say in how they are used, but the photographer is the primary rights-holder. Most TFP releases provide that the model may only use the photographs for self-promotion and may not sell or relicense them. However, some models, especially models who are already under contract or hope to submit photographs to a specific user, will specify that certain uses (for example, print use of nude shots) are not allowed.

3) Unlimited prints. Prints, especially portfolio-quality prints, are not cheap. The photographer should offer a reasonable quantity, perhaps based on the total number of usable images captured. If the model wants more prints than are agreed upon before the shoot begins, she should expect to pay a reasonable price for them.

Probably the most common complaint about beginning models doing TFP is that they are unreliable and sometimes don’t show up for scheduled shoots. The usual reply to a complaint of this sort is that since the model’s not getting paid, she doesn’t have a real obligation to the photographer. This is, bluntly, wrong. The photographer has committed to the shoot. If they did not believe that they were going to have a shoot with that model at that time, they could have scheduled something else. A no-show model represents time and opportunity wasted, and both of those have a very real monetary value. Models with reputations for dependability get callbacks and referrals: models who don’t, don’t. The world of photography is surprisingly close-knit and it doesn’t take long at all for word to get around.

It is also important for the model to understand what will be expected of her at a shoot. This should be agreed to ahead of time and both photographer and model should honor the agreement. If the photographer specifies “figure studies,” expect to be asked to remove your clothes. f you told the photographer “no nude shots,” and they press you to undress, leave. If the session is going well and you are both comfortable with each other, you may jointly decide to “kick it up a notch” and do a lingerie shot, or an implied nude, or whatever you are both willing to do. There’s no harm in either party asking politely, once, and you shouldn’t be offended so long as the inquiry is polite. If it’s not polite, or if the photographer won’t drop the subject after you’ve made your limits clear, you should end the photo session.

MC310 Class: Photoshoot

Please come to class tomorrow. We will leave for field work/ photoshoot at 1:30 PM, 19 July 2008. Wear rubber shoes, jeans, bullcap, umbrella, and bring extra shirts, bottled water, camera bag and your PRESS ID. Do not forget to charge your camera battery packs.

*If you have asthma, bring your anti-asthma medicine. The cogon grass may trigger an asthma attach. =) Photos for this activity will be your prelim examination requirement. See you.

I Want to be a Good Catholic

I Want to be a Good Catholic
By Antonio Meloto
Theology Class Public Lecture
Ateneo de Manila University
July 1, 2008

There is a time to speak and a time to be silent. Tonight is the first time that I will speak publicly about the upheaval that rocked Couples for Christ.

For over a year, I chose to keep quiet out of respect for long cherished friendships and refrained from adding fuel to the fire while emotions were high. What was an internal leadership transition within an organization I felt should not have been made into a public issue and prudence should have been taken not to drag the Catholic Church into the conflict. I must admit that it was tempting at times for me to speak out and defend myself but I listened to the voice within my heart that kept telling me "keep still, I will defend those who defend the poor."

Now I understand how God shielded me by making me computer illiterate. The fight for control over CFC was being waged in the internet, while the struggle to ease human suffering was happening in the GK communities. During the most difficult moments, I went to the poor for consolation. It became clear to me that the poor are oftentimes the victim when there is conflict among leaders. When politicians fight, it is the poor who suffer. Ironically, when religious leaders fight it is also the poor who suffer, just like the CFC controversy where Gawad Kalinga became the central issue. My stand on this is clear; I will always be on the side of the poor. As a Christian, I believe that this is also the stand of Jesus. I have remained with CFC that is building the church of the poor.

As I turn the page to start a new chapter in my life, I want to make one thing clear. Contrary to allegations, I have not veered away from the Catholic Church and set aside my faith for social work. I have put my social work inside my faith.

In God's perfect plan he gave me the gift of being Filipino by virtue of birth and the privilege of being Catholic by baptism and choice. Both are absolute realities that I treasure. Being Filipino for me is a way of life that must be lived with honor. Being Catholic is a covenant of love that must be practiced, not just preached.

It is my personal conviction that I am not a good Catholic if I do not love my country or if I allow my countrymen to remain poor even if I live a devout and decent life. Within our context, where 85% of our population profess to be Catholic, faith and patriotism must go together to address the twin sisters of underdevelopment- poverty and corruption.

Bishop Francisco Claver, SJ., comments on the reluctance before of the Church to address this issue in his new book The Making of a Local Church. "Economics, so the charge went, is outside of the Church's competence. Not so much now. It is readily seen that if, faithful to Christ's concern for the least of his brothers and sisters, we must feed the hungry, teach the ignorant, heal the sick, we can and must do something about the causes, not just the symptoms, of their hunger, their ignorance, their sicknesses." When addressing corruption, which is a moral issue, the Church is also being accused by the powerful and those with vested interests "of meddling in politics."

Ordinary Catholics like myself can and must do something about politics and economics in the interest of the poor in order to build a nation.

Central to my being Catholic is Jesus' love for the poor. He saw the world through their eyes. His world-view was from the bottom up. His value system was always skewed in their favor- the last shall be first, the lowest shall be raised to the highest. The challenge for me is to care for them in a manner that will help them rise to their highest potential. My piety and pity alone will not save them; the squatters need land, not alms
justice, not dole-out. Without land, they cannot build homes or produce food. Without decent homes, they have no dreams. Without dreams, they have no desire to study or work. It is terribly unchristian for Filipinos to be squatters in a country where there is so much land in the possession of a few.

When a country like Vietnam, deemed godless by us, is able to reduce poverty from 60% to 15% in 20 years and produce surplus rice with technology coming from the Philippines and export to us, what message are we giving to the world? That we love the poor so much that we want them to remain poor and to produce more of their own kind? True love for the poor is redemptive and transformative, not condescending or patronizing or accepting that poverty is their destiny.

One interesting issue raised about me was that I was talking too much about nation-building when I should be preaching about Kingdom-building. For me, there is no dualism: nation-building is Kingdom-building. We need to make every Filipino passionate nation builders. Our country needs more builders, not just more preachers. The Jesus of history that I know, before he became the transcendent Christ to us, was a carpenter and the builder of both a physical and a spiritual kingdom. His disciples followed his example and built the early Christian communities where believers shared their resources with one another and no one was in need. This was the inspiration to start the first Gawad Kalinga village in Bagong Silang, Caloocan City. Building sustainable GK communities is about values as well as economics. It is also about politics. It is our antidote to corruption by promoting servant leadership. Our slogan for leaders is " Una sa serbisyo, huli sa
benepisyo" (First to serve, last to benefit).

Tonight we are joined by former gang members of Bagong Silang who have graduated from college including one of them who is now a nursing professor at the Far Eastern University. Together with them are other former out of school youth and delinquents from other GK sites who are representing their local parishes at the World Youth Day celebration in Sydney, Australia. They have shown to us what they can be if we do not give up on them. True Christianity is giving power to the powerless. It is about restoring human dignity and liberating God's people from begging and stealing.

Since our independence from America, we have become more mendicant and mercenary as a people while our biggest Asian neighbor, China, is hitting 11% growth and on its way to improving their quality of human life and reducing corruption. This is another case of a godless society practicing the values that we preach as Christians; seeking the collective good and protecting the interest of the many from the exploitation of the few. I do not approve of some of their means to attain their end- imposing abortion to achieve their one-child policy and curtailing human rights in particular- but I do admire their success in curbing human greed which is our greatest failure in our version of Christianity and democracy.

What happened to us?

At the heart of Christianity is social justice anchored on Jesus' love for the oppressed and the spirit of democracy is equality for all but looking at the vast social inequity in wealth and opportunity in our country clearly shows that we have been unfaithful to our core values and belief systems.

God is not about structures and rituals but about caring. Nation is not about politics but patriotism. Politics is competition for power; patriotism is giving up our lust for power, sharing our wealth and making heroic sacrifices for the weak to build our collective strength as a people.

Another concern raised about our spirituality for nation-building is our emphasis on heroism when the focus should be on holiness. I do not see how you can separate one from the other. To be holy in the Philippines is to be a hero for the poor. Given the influence of religion on us, we need a faith-based model as a blue-print for sustainable development. We find the feeding of 5000 people with 5 loaves of bread and 2 fishes as the gospel's version of the Bayanihan spirit, the Sermon on the Mount as the best template in building a just and caring society, and Jesus' passion on the cross as the ultimate act of self-giving and the best model for heroism to build a nation. In Gawad Kalinga, we call this brand of heroism padugo or bleeding for the cause- the passion to serve others out of love
without counting the cost and beyond self-interest.

A nation is built with sacrifice, not money. It is natural for us to sacrifice for people we care about; sadly, the poor who need it the most are not among them. What we need is a fundamental change in mind-set: the poor are our friends. They include the squatters on our land, the laborers in our farms, the helpers in our homes. It is only when we consider them as friends that we will gain divine favor and delivery from material and spiritual poverty as a nation.

"I no longer call you slaves but friends." This short line in scripture says it all: social justice is the path of faith and the way to peace.

Friendship is about being available to the people we care about. Poverty to me, complex as it is to others, is a simple case of absence and rejection. We have forgotten that Jesus' entire public ministry was a spirituality of presence; the son of God becoming flesh and blood, entering human history to leave behind a physical presence for all eternity. He left a trail of friends and witnesses to all His marvelous deeds, and many concrete examples for us to follow. In our lifetime we need to leave a trail of witnesses among the poor who will honestly testify- "he was our friend"- about us.

While Jesus preferred the company of the poor, he also dined with sinners; he was present to the innocent and the immoral alike
clearly, he came to save not to judge. Christianity, by his example, is a gospel of engagement, not judgment. It is a spirituality of acceptance, not rejection. His compassion towards the repentant tax collector liberated the heart of the corrupt public official from greed and released his money to the needy. Love, not condemnation, softens the heart, opens the pocket, spreads abundance, restores trust, and builds peace.

Pope Benedict showed us authentic Christian witnessing on his recent trip to the United States. He came to the biggest producer and distributor of contraceptives in the world not to condemn but to love. And America loved him back. He did not arrive in glory as the supreme leader of the most powerful church in the world but in humility to ask forgiveness for the sex abuses of the clergy. This simple act of humility had greater impact on me than all the sermons that I have heard in recent times. Despite the embarrassing nature of his visit, I've never been prouder to be Catholic.

My prayer today is for the Holy Father to come to the Philippines to ask forgiveness for our failure in social justice and for our hypocrisy in covering up or justifying our unfaithfulness. This for me is the symbolic act of humility needed to redeem a sinful nation and usher in a new season of grace.

Yes, we need to repent and reform rather than blame anyone for our collective sin against the nation. Our citizens are no longer fooled by scapegoats and excuses. Now that there is greater connectivity, they know what is happening and they are starting to demand accountability. The moment has come for us to stop pointing an accusing finger on anyone since we are all compromised. We need to change now
and do what is right.

Let me set this straight before I am taken out of context. There is nothing wrong with the social teachings of the church; there is only our failure to practice them, clergy and laity alike. I cannot speak for the clergy; they have their own accountability to their vows as I have mine to my oaths as a citizen and as a believer. Admittedly, I feel trivialized and embarrassed when people joke about the clergy. While the public demands the highest level of morality and witnessing from our moral icons, the most that I can say oftentimes to defend their lifestyle or to explain their indiscretion is that "they are also human." I know that it is hard for them as it is for me.

It was this cognizance of being human myself that made me join Couples for Christ in 1985. I needed a support environment to keep my vows as a husband and as a father in a world of philanderers and scoundrels.

I must admit that growing up male in a Third-world setting is definitely a challenge to the gender with the bigger ego and the more aggressive hormone. Ego without a mature conscience is power without honor; testosterone in a body without character is like keeping a fox inside a chicken coop. Without conscience and character, we are a danger to ourselves and to the world around us. The trusting innocent are particularly vulnerable to those in robes and other religious leaders.

Without exaggeration, the male in our society are weak because we have not been properly raised to be stewards. Many homes do not have fathers and our communities lack heroes. To compensate, women are forced to take on these roles even at the risk of abuse from emasculated partners.

In retrospect, Couples for Christ helped me grow a conscience and develop character without which I would have no credibility as head of my domestic church. It was a decision to find strength through discipleship and surrender of my ego to a greater power in the company of other fallen men. It is a lifetime process learning to detach from my wants and to be passionate about His will.

The demands of discipleship helped me discover the essence of real manhood: honor. In a country of cheaters, honesty is of the highest value. In the land of the corrupt, a man of integrity is king. To a follower of Christ like myself
weak and imperfect as I am
truth is the way to real power and freedom. The reward of taking this difficult path of honor for me is priceless- the affection of my wife and the respect of my children after 30 years of marriage and family life.

Building the church of the home however was just the first phase of the journey for me. For others, perhaps it is enough. Family renewal in my mind is not an end but foundational to the bigger mission- societal renewal and nation building. As development of conscience and character are vital to effective family governance, they are also cornerstones for good citizenship. Nation-building is about character-building.

Oftentimes we are not conscious that the higher collective good is sacrificed for self and kin. Family is the common and most acceptable excuse for greed in a society that prides and thrives on strong familial ties. Family demands the highest value because it is an extension of the self. The poor is not seen from the perspective of a relationship, either as family or friend, but as an object of charity or as a servant. So we give them alms and orders- not respect or affection that are only bestowed on those we love or people we consider important. Dona Victorina was outwardly religious, pious, and devout but she was also a matapobre according to Dr. Jose Rizal.

This is the heart of our problem as a Christian nation. We have not invested enough in building the church of the poor. We missed Jesus' point of view and wisdom when he spoke about leaving family as a condition for discipleship. The poor not only deserve our attention but investing in them will catalyze economic activities, create opportunities, and build a safer environment for our children. Our greatest asset, our biggest market- the poor – are just waiting to be mentored, empowered, and harnessed as our engine for growth. The stones that were rejected will become the cornerstone for nation-building.

Knowing this, how do we face the future as Catholics in a country of immense potential but mired in poverty of spirit and body?

My personal response is simple: Gawad Kalinga- the Filipino expression of integral evangelization that seeks to build good citizenship on earth as it is in heaven. Being Catholic is my choice that demands conviction and action from me.


This is my anchor: faith in God, love for family, and pride in being Filipino.


This is my compass: Christ as the core of my conscience, my model of citizenship, and the source of commonsense. He is my navigator through controversy and conflict, the mirror to my soul, my companion and consolation.


I go to Church for mass and communion every Sunday but I strive daily to be in communion with the masses and those who want to see their lives improve. To many, going to church is an end. For me, being Catholic begins the moment I step out of the church. I am called to be a man for others.


To build solidarity, I am guided by Pope Benedict's spirit of ecumenism in this country divided by religious intolerance and partisan politics. For me, Catholic fundamentalism is just as bad as fundamentalism that we deplore in other religion. Hypocrisy and bigotry in any language and form are unacceptable to me as a Catholic as they were to Jesus.


With all our imperfections, I am proud to be Catholic and I want to bring passion in the Church to serve God by serving the poor.

There are rumors that I am doing all of these because I will run for public office. To set the record straight, this is not my desire or calling. I value the freedom to serve more than the authority to rule. To gain freedom, I will not seek political power or personal profit from business. Real power is in not wanting it. True wealth is in not loving money but sharing it with those deprived of a dignified life due to lack of it. To be free is not to put a price tag to one's soul.

To end, let me share with you my wish before I die. I want to see the Philippines as the first Catholic nation in Asia that will rise from third-world poverty and corruption. I will not rest until we put Fr. Damaso and Dona Victorina finally to rest.

MC310 Class: Photographer's Code of Ethics

ATENEO DE DAVAO UNIVERSITY
Mass Communication Department
MC 310: Basic Photography
Bong S. Eliab

Photographer’s Code of Ethics


1. Strive to present myself in a manner that reflects the highest levels of professionalism; and deal with all others in matters relating to photography with honesty and integrity.

Specifically:

2. I will not show, publish, or exhibit any picture without the models prior permission.

3. I will act in a professional and responsible manner at all times.

4. I will not engage in any behavior that may be deemed harassment.

5. I will not engage in any speech that may be deemed harassment.

6. I will not touch any model without asking for and getting her/his permission prior to doing so.

7. I will not hog any particular model, background, or scene and will allow the other photographers ample time to take their pictures.

8. I will not show any model pictures of herself/ himself she/he might consider embarrassing, unless she/ he specifically asks to see them.

9. I will not take time away from any model or the other photographers during an event to show my portfolio.

Also:

10. I will not allow any other photographer to violate this code of ethics and will promptly report him to the teacher, sponsors or organizers of the event and or other appropriate authorities.

11. I will strive to upgrade and improve my knowledge and skill of photography and to put this new knowledge to use.

12. I will strive at all times to produce photography in accordance with the highest levels of professionalism.

13. In all dealings with my mentor, fellow photographers, students and others who aspire to be photographers, I shall share the knowledge and skill of photography; and I will support efforts for and assist in the education of all interested persons in the art and science of photography.

14. I will not violate any laws about photography and especially child pornography. I will immediately report to the proper authorities any activities I may become aware of which might be child pornography or child molestation, sexual harassment

(cf. Republic Act 7610 “An Act Providing for Stronger Deterrence and Special Protection Against Child Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination and other Purposes” and Republic Act 7877 “Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995”)

Tsk-tsk-tsk!

All Roads Lead to Ateneo

I am making a survey about the route of public utility jeepneys (PUJs) in Davao. As I was told by a Jesuit when I first arrived in Davao way back 1993 that all PUJs passed by the University. So he told me if I would be lost to just take any PUJ and tell the driver to drop me at Ateneo/near Ateneo.

I do not know if at present this is still true.

I intend to design a shirt for the Jubilee Year of the University (60 Years) with a title: "ALL ROADS LEAD TO ATENEO".

I know the following:
- Obrero jeeps pass Jacinto
- Mintal, Toril, Calinan PUJs pass Roxas Avenue
- Sasa, Bajada and Panacan jeeps pass the Acacia area
- Matina jeeps pass the Uyanguren/ Claveria area
- ACDC jeeps pass by Jacinto or Claveria

Any comment will be appreciated.

ATENEO DE ILOILO (ADI) TASK FORCE FRANK

ATENEO DE ILOILO (ADI) TASK FORCE FRANK

Typhoon Frank left thousands of families in Iloilo and Panay Region homeless. Accordingly, this is the worst disaster that has ever struck the region. As early as Saturday morning, June 21, reports came in from different towns and barangays of flash floods leaving entire barangays submerged. Many people evacuated their homes to seek refuge in churches, schools and other makeshift evacuation centers. Still many others remain trapped in their homes and waiting for rescue. Rescue efforts have been hampered by damaged bridges and roads. As of Monday morning, recorded death toll has reached more than 100. Most parts of the region have no electricity and water. Food and water are badly needed especially in worst hit towns and barangays.

In view of the emergency situation, we are pleading for your assistance for our brothers and sisters in Iloilo and Panay. We are in need of food, especially canned goods, clothing, and water. We will coordinate the distribution of goods with the Jaro Archdiocesan Social Action Center. Donations may be sent to:

Ateneo de Iloilo – Santa Maria Catholic School
c/o Fr. Manny Uy, S.J. or Bro. Arthur Nebrao, S.J.
139 General Blanco St., Iloilo City
Tel. (033) 337-5532; (033) 338-2245
Fax. (033) 336-2903
Email: anebrao@gmail.com

Cash donations will be greatly appreciated. You may also send your cash donations through:

Banco de Oro (BDO)
Iloilo SM Delgado Branch
Account Name: ADI TASK FORCE FRANK
Account Number: 0710515588

Let us continue to pray for the countless victims of Iloilo and Panay Region. Thank you for your generosity.

TASK FORCE BULIG

Ateneo de Davao University
Jacinto St., Davao City

TASK FORCE BULIG
For Panay Island

Typhoon FRANK (International Codename: Fengsen) caused vast damage to lives, properties and livelihood of our follow countrymen over the weekend. Latest reports said that the number of casualties had been increasing. Damages were greatly felt in some regions where the actual path of the typhoon crossed. Almost all of the provinces of Iloilo, Antique, Aklan and Capiz were submerged in water. People are still stranded on top of the roofs of their houses for two days now in some towns of Iloilo and Antique. Other areas of the Western Visayas are also calling for aid.

General Information:

As of 23 June 2008:
• 10,000 families (40,000 individuals) affected of 20 provinces, 10,000 families are in 275 evacuation centers and increasing.
• Under State of Calamity: Provinces of Iloilo, Capiz, Aklan, Antique, Masbate. Cities of Iloilo, Roxas, Zamboanga (selected areas).
• NDCC: Floods, storm surge and landslides mostly in the Visayas and Southern Tagalog have affected 366,444 people. Of the total number of affected people, 182,686 were in the Western Visayas, including 155,005 in Antique province alone.
• Stranded 5,095 passengers, 288 rolling cargo, 90 trucks, 59 passenger buses, 48 small vehicles, and eight sea vessels.

Iloilo Facts
• Philippine National Red Cross; based on field reports from PNRC staff, the death toll had reached 229, with 101 reported in Iloilo alone.
• Iloilo Gov. Neil Tupas earlier said 59 people drowned in the province while another 40 were missing. “Almost all the towns are covered by water. It’s like an ocean,” Tupas said, adding thousands have been displaced in the province that is home to 1.7 million people.
• Health Secretary Francisco Duque also said he received reports that the Aniway District Hospital in Iloilo, was submerged in floodwaters as deep as six feet.
• Almost all of Iloilo’s 42 towns and this city, including those that had not previously experienced flooding, were under water according to Jerry Bionat, Executive officer of the Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council (PDCC).
• Power outrage reported in Iloilo City; including Odiongan town, Romblon and Antique Province

DONATION MECHANISM

GOODS
You may directly donate your goods: ready-to-eat goods, clothing, water at Alumni Affairs Office (Finster Hall, Roxas Avenue) or Social Involvement Coordinating Office (Del Rosario Hall), Ateneo de Davao University, Jacinto St., Davao City
Contact Person : Ms. Theresa S. Eliab or Fr. Renato C. Ocampo S.J.
Trunkline : (82) 221.2411 local 8329 or 8353


CASH/CHECK
Direct deposits may be made to:

United Coconut Planters Bank
UCPB Account Name: Ateneo de Davao University - Paymate
UCPB Account No.: 417-103300-8
Use Bills Payment Slip and indicate Task Force Bulig

One Network Bank
ONB Account Name: Ateneo de Davao University
ONB Account No.: 21-00005-5
Use Deposit Slip and indicate Task Force Bulig

Or channel to:

Social Involvement Coordinating Office
Ateneo de Davao University
Jacinto St., Davao City
Landline: (82) 221.2411 local 8329 or 8353
Telefax: (82) 226.4116
Text : SICO FEEDBACK YOUR MESSAGE and send to 700ADDU
Web : www.addu.edu.ph
Look for : Magay

For proper acknowledgement:
- Please fax a copy of the validated deposit slip to SICO (82) 226.4116
- Kindly indicate contact information: Name, address, email, landline/mobile
- Those who wish to be anonymous may skip this procedure

Donations will be sent to the victims through Ateneo de Iloilo-Sta Maria High School.

Drink, Don't Drive

Davao Traffic Advisory

When the Bankerohan bridge closed due to construction, the government (either the City's Engineer's Office or the TMC) placed traffic advisories in Ulas Bridge and in GSIS Matina-Ecoland Crossing (Quimpo Blvd-McArthur Highway Corssing). The signage informed the motorists of the volume of traffic passing through Bankerohan and suggested to take either the Diversion Road or the Ecoland route. When the new Bankerohan bridge opened, the riding public from the south heaved a sigh. First week of classes was fine for students coming from Toril or Matina -- a good 15-20 mins drive to downtown.

Yesterday, motorists and the riding public were surprised to to know that the end of the Bankerohan bridge going downtown was closed, traffic was rerouted to a side road going to Magallanes Street. There were no advisories nor announcement along Quimpo-McArthur that volume of traffic along Bankerohan was heavy. Many were stuck along McArthur highway (from NCCC to Bankerohan) for 1-2 hours! The traffic enforcers knew all along that the traffic volume was heavy -- yet no signage telling motorists along Matina about the jam. The poor drivers were entering a trap, they only found out when they got to Bankerohan after 2 hours wait under the gruelling heat of the sun.

My one million dollar question: who's responsibility is it to give the riding public traffic advisories and suggest alternative route?

Sa Mata ng Bata

WHAT IS THE PROPER AGE TO GET MARRIED?

"Eighty-four, because at that age, you don't have to work anymore, and you can spend all your time loving each other in your bedroom." (Judy, 8)

"Once I'm done with kindergarten, I'm going to find me a wife." (Tom, 5)

WHAT DO MOST PEOPLE DO ON A DATE?

"On the first date, they just tell each other lies, and that usually gets them interested enough to go for a second date." (Mike, 10)

WHEN IS IT OKAY TO KISS SOMEONE?

"You should never kiss a girl unless you have enough bucks to buy her a big ring and her own VCR, 'cause she'll want to have videos of the wedding." (Jim, 10)

"Never kiss in front of other people. It's a big embarrassing thing if anybody sees you. But if nobody sees you, I might be willing to try it with a handsome boy,
but just for a few hours." (Kally, 9)

THE GREAT DEBATE: IS IT BETTER TO BE SINGLE OR MARRIED?

"It's better for girls to be single but not for boys. Boys need somebody to clean up after them." (Lynette, 9)

"It gives me a headache to think about that stuff. I'm just a kid. I don't need that kind of trouble." (Kenny, 7)

CONCERNING WHY LOVE HAPPENS BETWEEN TWO PARTICULAR PEOPLE?

"No one is sure why it happens, but I heard it has something to do with how you smell. That's why perfume and deodorant are so popular." (Jan, 9)

"I think you're supposed to get shot with an arrow or something, but the rest of it isn't supposed to be so painful." (Harlen, 8)

ON WHAT FALLING IN LOVE IS LIKE?

"Like an avalanche where you have to run for your life." (Roger, 9)

"If falling in love is anything like learning how to spell, I don't want to do it. It takes too long." (Leo, 7)

ON THE ROLE OF GOOD LOOKS IN LOVE?

"If you want to be loved by somebody who isn't already in your family, it doesn't hurt to be beautiful." (Jeanne, 8)

"It isn't always just how you look. Look at me. I'm handsome like anything and I haven't got anybody to marry me yet." (Gary, 7)

"Beauty is skin deep. But how rich you are can last a long time." (Christine, 9)

CONCERNING WHY LOVERS OFTEN HOLD HANDS?

"They want to make sure their rings don't fall off because they paid good money for them." (Dave, 8)

CONFIDENTIAL OPINIONS ABOUT LOVE?

"I'm in favor of love as long as it doesn't happen when 'The Simpsons' is on television." (Anita, 6)

"Love will find you, even if you are trying to hide from it. I have been trying to hide from it since I was five, but the girls keep finding me." (Bobby, 8)

"I'm not rushing into being in love - I'm finding fourth grade hard enough." (Regina, 10)

THE PERSONAL QUALITIES NECESSARY TO BE A GOOD LOVER?

"One of you should know how to write a check. Because, even if you have tons of love, there is still going to be a lot of bills." (Ava, 8)

SOME SUREFIRE WAYS TO MAKE A PERSON FALL IN LOVE WITH YOU?

"Tell them that you own a whole bunch of candy stores." (Del, 6)

"Don't do things like have smelly, green sneakers. You might get attention, but attention ain't the same thing as love." (Alonzo, 9)

"One way is to take the girl out to eat. Make sure it's something she likes to eat. French fries usually works for me." (Bart, 9)

HOW CAN YOU TELL IF TWO ADULTS EATING DINNER AT A RESTAURANT ARE IN LOVE?

"Just see if the man picks up the check. That's how you can tell if he's in love." (John, 9)

"Lovers will just be staring at each other and their food will get cold. Other people care more about the food." (Brad, 8)

"It's love if they order one of those desserts that are on fire. they like to order those because it's just like how their hearts are on fire." (Christine, 9)

Devi

ON THE MEANING OF AN ATENEO EDUCATION

ON THE MEANING OF AN ATENEO EDUCATION
by Agustin Martin G. Rodriguez, Ph.D.


When my daughter had the chance to finish high school in New York, we
agonized about it: I more than her. Her agony centered around the need to
moderate her desire to embark on this adventure because she knew it would
break my heart. My agony had two thorns. Firstly, I didn't want her to go
because in all our lives, we had never spent more than 2 days apart from
each other. Secondly, there was the irony of her studying in the United
States. As a nationalist academic and development worker, I always believed
that one's spirit had to be formed with one's people—among their myths and
their sufferings—in order to understand who one is, what one's
responsibilities are and to whom one's heart belongs. I know to the
sophisticated global citizen I would sound archaic and provincial, but I
still believe that before our spirit can embrace the world it must be rooted
in a home we love. But I knew that the idea of giving up this opportunity
was breaking her up inside because, as she said, she might spend the rest of
her life wondering what if, so I let her go. She left with the promise that
she would come back for college because I still believe that the university
years are formative. But we all know how those promises go. Two years in the
glitter of a new world could weaken the bindings of promises made in times
of great emotions. It has been a year and we are now completely at peace
with her decision to leave.

All that I have said is a prelude to why I am writing this piece. I am
writing this to explain why I believe her formation in the Ateneo would
still be the best for my daughter. I want to clarify to everyone else who
raise their eyebrows at me, what I mean when I say that I believe an
education here is superior to any ivy league education. Many of my
colleagues who know that my daughter has a chance to study in an American
university cannot understand why I would prefer that she study here. One of
them even exclaimed: "You would prefer that she study here even if she had a
chance to study in Harvard!" with a you-are-so ridiculous tone. And to me
the answer was "Yes, of course, you're so ridiculous." And the reason is
simply this: she may get a superior technical education in some top ranking
university abroad but only in the Philippines will she have a superior
education in being a Filipino for Filipinos.

My daughter wants to be a writer and recently she has had a chance to attend
a prestigious workshop in an American university best known as a center for
writing. And I was witness to how because of that opportunity, her writing
skills have advanced light years from when she left. I have no doubt that if
she studied creative writing in one of the US universities known for it, her
skills would be strengthened even more. But what would she write about? A
great writer is as much about her skill as it is about her great insight. If
you have the skill but not the immersion in the profound re a l i t i e s t
h a t h ave formed yo u r s o u l , w h a t i s t h e re t o w r i t e
about? And who would she write for? A truly great writer is one whose
passion is fueled by the need to speak for her people, especially the mute.
And to even begin to want to speak for them, you have to be grounded in
their misery. One's people are never generic: they take concrete form in the
faces that resonate in your heart. I think an education in her own country
would prepare her to face the faces that resonate in her heart and perhaps
an Ateneo education could awaken the passion to respond to those faces.

I know that many complain that Ateneans lead a very sheltered life in this
campus. In an infinite number of ways that is ridiculously true. In the end,
the Ateneo is the Ateneo: a separate world from the world of the margins.
But what most people don't understand about the Ateneo, is that the Ateneo
is not just about the majors or the specific programs. It is about a spirit
that pervades among its best people.

When I was young, I was ready to quit the Church because I was convinced
that there were no intelligent and just Catholics. And then I came to the
Ateneo where I met Catholics who strove to serve the margins because of
their love of God. And because they loved God's people, they strove for
excellence. That realization astounded me and kept me in the Church and in
Ateneo. If anything, Filipino Jesuit education just means to teach people
that the love of God means nothing but to love the people who suffer
forgotten in the margins, and that we strive for excellence in what we do to
serve them best: otherwise excellence and the love of God is empty. What
else does faith mean? What else grounds excellence? What else measures the
good of a life but that? And if you take Ateneo education seriously enough,
and if you are open to its opportunities enough, it will lead you to that
realization and it will lead you to your first opening to the faces that you
will have to serve. At its core, Ateneo education is an apprenticeship in
the work of being a Filipino for others. This is only a slogan so long as
one misses out on the living examples of alumni, scholars, administrators,
maintenance and staff who show us the way to realizing the truth of an
Ateneo education. Open your eyes to those who serve radically and they will
radically educate your heart. And if one is open enough one can see that
such people dwell in this school because there is a spirit in this school
that cradles them and supports their vocation. It is intangible, but it is a
spirit that guides the best of us.

Some people feel that we are an elite school that cultivates an elite
rationality. Radioactive Sago's brilliant third album is entitled "… Ang
Daming Nagugutom Sa Mundo Fashionista Ka Pa Rin." In one gig, Lord de Vera
was plugging their album and he said "Bilhin ninyo ang aming album '… Ang
Daming Nagugutom Sa Mundo Atenista Ka Pa Rin.'" I could understand his
sentiments exactly. Just listen to conversations in the pocket garden where
people complain about the heat, their slow laptops and their old school
phones and anyone who knows anything about the hardships in our country will
easily agree with Lord. But then, if you think about it, although some of
our graduates are oblivious to the suffering around them and even if some of
them do reinforce structures that exploit the suffering, there is that core
of Ateneans touched by the spirit of this school who choose to genuinely
build communities founded on justice, to found enterprises that serve true
needs, to lawyer for the oppressed, and to doctor for the poor. Many
innovations of justice building in our country arise because of their
apprenticeships in the magis of our service. We just don't hear about these
things because they don't find their way into our tarpaulins. But the spirit
is there and it is the spirit that defines us more than basketball
championships or the number of CEOs we produce. Somehow, because of our
formation, Ateneans still tend to be idealistic about service. And so I say
"Dahil ang daming nagugutom sa mundo kailangan mong seryosohin ang pagka-
Atenista." This is why, my dear fellow parents, I think an Ateneo education
is more valuable for my daughter than a Cornell or Harvard or Princeton
education: because here, we learn to be excellent for something
important—our people and our Filipino humanity.


Dr. Rodriguez is currently an Assistant Professor of the Philosophy Department of the Loyola Schools.
His daughter, Leal, is a freshman in the Ateneo majoring in AB Humanities.
Edited version of "To my colleagues: On the meaning of an Ateneo education"
by Agustin Martin G. Rodriguez, Ph.D.
Chalk Marks. The Guidon. Volume LXXV. Number 6.

One Year After

More at my Flickr Collections

May 2008 Shoot

More at Flickr


Ahleen at the Food Court (Wifi)
Ateneo de Davao University



Studying at the American Resource Center
Ateneo de Davao University



Faculty Resource Center
Ateneo de Davao University

Creative Commons Video Bumpers

For the Summer 2008 Production Class (click the image for choices of license that will suit your project):

Earthquake Prediction on SMS

I got several same SMS that say: "Received a forwarded message about a predicted 6.8 earthquake will hit (sic) philippine plates tonite from the u.s. geological society in hawaii. let's be alert and pray for miracle. please share with others for stronger prayers." How true is this? I know some people go ballistic on hearing calamities that are beyond the common sense.

However, according to Wikipedia:

"An earthquake prediction is a prediction that an earthquake in a specific magnitude range will occur in a specific region and time window. Predictions are considered as such to the extent that they are reliable for practical, as well as scientific, purposes. Although there is evidence that at least some earthquakes in some tectonic regimes are predictable with useful accuracy of time and space, the reliability and reproducibility of prediction techniques have not been established and are therefore generally not accepted by seismologists. For practical purposes, seismologists bring forth seismic hazard assessment programs by estimating the probabilities that a given earthquake or suite of earthquakes will occur."

Read more.

Attention Blue Eagles!

Ateneo Blue Eagles Fellowship May 17

“Mary for you, for your white and blue . . .”

In line with Ateneo de Manila University's preparation for her 150th anniversary in 2009, a team from Loyola Heights has been visiting key cities in the Philippines and abroad updating alumni of developments in the university and the activities lined-up for her sesquicentennial celebration.

For the Davao leg, the roadshow team will be led by University President Fr. Bienvenido Nebres SJ.

Alumni of the grade school, high school, college of arts and sciences, graduate school, law school and professional school of Ateneo de Manila University, as well as students who are currently on summer vacation, are encouraged to attend the gathering of Blue Eagles on Saturday, May 17, 6:30 pm at the Harana Pavilion along F. Torres St., Davao City.

Generous servings of cocktail food and drinks will be available. No assessment will be collected. To confirm attendance, please contact Benjie Lizada, Tetet Tolentino-Aviola, Melissa Suarez, Bong Eliab, Gilbert Veruasa, Dennis Sto. Domingo or Paul Garcia. You can also call Taps Inc. (305-8031), Tricom Davao (227-4137/4138), Terra Romana Realty (226-8659) or the Ateneo de Davao Admission Office (221-2411).

“Win or lose, it's the school you choose. This is the place where we belong.”

Classes Start on June 10

Classes Begin on June 10, 2008 (Tuesday) for College, High School and Grade School in Ateneo de Davao University. June 9, 2008 is a holiday per Proclamation No. 1463 dated February 2008. See link: PROCLAMATION 1463

SMART TEXT

As part of efforts to get feedback effectively,
the University is in the processing of setting up
the InfoBoard powered by SMART Communications.
(For SMART Phones Only)

To send feedback to the Office of the President: key in OPFEEDBACK YOUR MESSAGE, and send to 700ADDU.

To send feedback to the Asst. to the President: key in ATPFEEDBACK YOUR MESSAGE, and send to 700ADDU.

To send feedback to the Admission Office: key in ADMISSIONFEEDBACK YOUR MESSAGE, and send to 700ADDU.

To send feedback to the OSA: key in OSAADDUFEEDBACK YOUR MESSAGE, and send to 700ADDU.

To send feedback to SICO: key in SICOFEEDBACK YOUR MESSAGE, and send to 700ADDU.

To send feedback to the SAMAHAN: key in SAMAHANFEEDBACK YOUR MESSAGE, and send to 700ADDU.

I am still in the process of training other personnel on how to use the technology which includes group broadcast, poll, text your grade, text your balance, text your dean.

Ateneo Website Banners (www.addu.edu.ph)

Tinubdan: Eden Nature Park

More at www.flickr.com/banyuhay

Wanted Photographer

A group of ADDU High School Bacth 1979 will be climbing
Mt. Hamiguitan on May 1 - 3, 2008.
They need a freelance photographer
who can document their trek.
Photographer's Fee: Php6,000
Food, transport and porter will be
shouldered by the group.
e-Mail me at: jse@addu.edu.ph

Located in Brgy. La Union in San Isidro, Davao Oriental
At 1,650 feet above sea level, one can found more than a thousand hectares
of 2-3 ft. tall century-old trees that are very sturdy
that one can literally stand over it without falling.
It is like a huge vegetable garden in the middle of the jungle.
The area is a favorite camping site of many local and foreign tourists,
mountaineering enthusiasts, biologists,
orniterologists and plain adventure-seeking people.
A regular organized climb is being conducted by the Local Government
every 2nd week of May.

Tua Ra!

I was curious about this phrase which was so often used by my students in the mass communication program. Its provenance in the world of sematics signifies that the phrase was used "to point" something, something outside the consciousness. It could be an object (of affection, a simulcra of desires, etc.). Well, the Latin objectum (pronounced as obyectum) means "something being thrown" in front of our consciousness.

Objectum per se may not be an equivalent of "tua ra", for the former is a noun while the latter is an action word. It speaks of a subject as if reaching out, "desiring" what is presented to its psyche. It does not speak of an object being known, but a subject trying to point, understand or even learn what is being presented.

"Tua ra" is a recognition of presence, something that presents itself. And in the process of this prescencing, the subject is "amazed", and called forth to exclaim "tua ra."

Recalling when those words were uttered by students, I noticed that the expresion was about:

(a) discovery of something anticipated, when they suddenly see two people doing something in a movie;
(b) amazement, when they are overwhelmed by what's being presented both visually and aurally;
(c) acceptance of the real, when they know that nothing can be further from the truth.

Yes, I see also faces of people uttering these words in my class. Tua ra!

Discover new words to see the meaning of our world - what have you discovered today?

Summer Writers Workshop

University Summer Writers Workshop The Ateneo de Davao University Summer Writers Workshop is now accepting applications for fellowship in the 2008 ADDU Summer Writers Workshop to be held on May 19-23, 2008 in Davao City.

The applicant should submit any of the following: five (5) poems or two (2) short stories, or two (2) essays, or one (1) one-act play, or a combination of the above literary genres together with a brief bio-data and contact number of the applicant.

Entries in English, Tagalog, and Cebuano are accepted. They should be typed, double-spaced, and accompanied with an electronic file in diskette or compact disc (CD).

The entries should be sent to Mr. Don Pagusara, Humanities Division, Ateneo de Davao University, E. Jacinto Street, 8016 Davao City. They can also be send by email as attachment to ateneodavaowritersworkshop@gmail.com.

Any resident of Mindanao is qualified to apply. Deadline of submission of application is on April 30, 2008. Those who will be accepted as fellows will enjoy free registration. They will be notified by the first week of May 2008.

For more information, please contact the Humanities Division at (82) 221.2411 local 8314.

Cafe Andessa

After the ADDU Baccalaureate Mass last 14 March 2008, I was invited by one of ninongs of our wedding to a newly opened cafe. Mr. Bobby Orig, Senior VP of Davao Light, has been a close friend since my NAMFREL days in early 90's until the 2004 elections. I met my wife in my last stint as NAMFREL coordinator, with Sir Bobby as our NAMFREL Chairperson. Currently, Sir Bobby is the Vice Chairperson of the Ateneo de Davao University's Board of Trustees.

The place is named Cafe Andessa: “Andessa” is a combination of siblings’ names, “An” for Sue Anne, “D” for Dino and “Essa” for Vanessa. It sits right in front of their residence (#2 Cabantian Road, Carpio Subd., Davao City; from Buhangin Road, it’s just a few meters away from the Buhangin/Diversion Crossing, after Cartir Square. The cafe can accommodate approximately 50 people. Interior decoration is very similar to the Orig's house.

Ms. Janette Huang-Teves in her Sunstar article "Lutong Orig" has this to say:

"Huge mirrors and colored glass adorned the wooden walls. Wicker and wrought iron chairs as well as dark wooden tables were especially ordered from Angeles City, which was where the Origs resided in the mid 80's. The high ceiling contributed to the restaurant's relaxing log cabin ambience, pleasantly reminding you of Tagaytay or Baguio. The quaint cafe is filled with Tita Joy's collection of novelty items and unique decorations."

The menu includes Filipino and international recipes. The cafe offers good old fashioned home or "lutong bahay" cooked meals. The specialties include Bicol Express (P105), laing (P75). The SMB was great, and wine, too.

I recommend this cafe when you are in Davao City.

Sue-Anne, Sir Bobby and Tita Joy Orig

For reservations: Telephone number (082) 2410004. It is open from Mondays-Saturdays, 10am-10pm and Sundays, 11am-9pm.

Valedictory Speech of Cristyl Mae B. Senajon (ADDU Class 2008 Valedictorian)

VALEDICTORY SPEECH
Ateneo de Davao University Commencement Exercise 2008
March 15, 2008

Cristyl Mae B. Senajon, AB Mass Communication, magna cum laude
Class 2008 Valedictorian

“Although we are obliged to avoid all that is evil, still we must be especially on guard against that which our nature is most inclined, for it is precisely from that source that our ruin will come if we do not exercise vigilant care over ourselves” (St. Ignatius Loyola).

History tells us about the multifarious times upon when this native island we now proudly call the Republic of the Philippines has been subjected to ostensibly unceasing political, social, and economic arrests. It is as if though we cannot go beyond the tales of our past, yet another time in our nation’s flow of history, we have come to subsistence at this juncture in a period of tumultuous trade where an existing gap between the haves and the have-nots is growing with much disparity, where the value of integrity is almost becoming likely an intolerable norm in a political sense, and where our people are seemingly becoming socially dislocated. In the past few months, we have been hearing and watching reports of indicated substantial corruption in the government implicating some of our high-ranking bureaucrats including even in those web of issues the alleged participation of the chief executive herself. Whether or not true, based upon testimonies of certain bold men who have chosen to walk from their shadows, we have been taken aghast by the pressing reality of corruption lurking behind the boulders of our system. As in the case of the much talked-about NBN-ZTE mess, it has become for instance a public knowledge that 20 percent overprice for a government contract would qualify as acceptable or moderate greed. Hence, to put this in another terms, kickbacks of 20 percent were the “norm” in government transactions. This is a case of dysfunctional procurement system. As in the words of Senate’s star witness Rodolfo Noel Lozada Jr. in its inquiry into the controversial NBN-ZTE deal, government’s procurement system does not work because institutionally the process is supply-driven rather than need-driven. This means projects go to suppliers who are close to the powerful.” Unquote. This is what is meant exactly by St. Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus when he said that we be on constant guard against that which our nature is most inclined. We can be at any rate be inclined to do what is evil only if we allow it to be. It is safe to assume almost certainly that what some officials in our government dub as “moderate greed” which is greed nonetheless is an absolute repercussion of letting one’s human nature be inclined against what is truly good.

Moreover beside this, the current national political crisis only compounds certain things that have already been enshrouding the country’s stale political system. But now, we might wonder and ask, in the midst of recurring political crisis, where do we try to locate ourselves even more as graduating students in terms of values and principles that within four or five years of study in the Ateneo have been formed according to Ignatian spirituality and leadership?

The Jesuit mission in education is that which that proclaims the service of faith through the promotion of justice. It is faith that does justice, so as to say.

Encapsulating the center-fold ideas of this phrase Father Pedro Arrupe, SJ once said, and I quote, “Our experience has shown us that our promotion of justice both flows from faith and brings us back to an even deeper faith. For the vision of justice which guides us is intimately linked with our faith. It is deeply rooted in the Scriptures, tradition and our Ignatian heritage. It transcends notions of justice derived from ideology, philosophy, or particular political movements, which can never be an adequate expression of justice of the Kingdom for which we are called to struggle at the side of our Companion and King.”

In the times when thinking about the welfare of the others seems to be the least of things most of us would opt to do because we busy ourselves with our own immediate and constant needs, there are a few individuals who have their lives selflessly dedicated to the upliftment and empowerment of those that our society cast to be downtroddens. We hope to share with them the same vision of a more just and more humane society for all the livings. Our Jesuit education has for us, the graduates an equal calling. We are called to be leaders concerned about the society and the world, we are called to join the ranks of those who desire to eliminate hunger and conflict in the world, to be more sensitive to the need for more equitable distribution of the world’s goods; no less are we called as graduates of this institution to seek to end sexual and social discrimination and finally but equally important, to share our faith with others. In short, we are called to live upon the goal of Jesuit education to form students who will become leaders-in-service.

In truth, we have every opportunity to render response to the call of our times based on the principle of the service of faith and the promotion of justice. The current national political crisis is in and of itself a challenge to every member of the community to actively participate in the search for the whole truth. While our country might not yet be ripe for another Edsa-type peaceful revolution as the economy is holding up unlike in 1986 and 2001 when the peso was sinking, prices escalating, business deteriorating and investments migrating (Artemio V. Panganiban, PDI March 2008), members of the academe as we are there is much that we can do in helping to address not only this recent political problem but also as well as to any foreboding threat to our national welfare. Because all that we are confronted with during this time is substantially a question of morality more than a question of politics accordingly, from our level we can act like true leaders-in-service.

In no time, we the graduates will be flooding the spigots of both the local and national workforce. Some of us here might be working as accountants, others businessmen, computer programmers, engineers, architects while others still will be joining the lines of some of our best media practitioners, medical doctors, nurses and teachers. Whatever field of specialization we shall have chosen for ourselves as we start out a new career in the future never hesitate but always act like true leaders-in-service. We can always begin from ourselves by way of living a life that earnestly promotes honesty and integrity in our intents and actions. We can become agents of transformation when others see by our example that we try to our very best to be honest and fair in terms of our dealings with others.

“The Ignatian ideals of magis, cura personalis, and contemplation-in-action fit very well with this vision of leadership and spirituality. On one hand, Magis helps transform our minds to look at the world as filled with hope and possibility for doing great things for God. (Karel San Juan, SJ). While we have been formed into becoming effective future leaders of our society the purpose of the development of our whole person, head and heart, intellect and feelings is however not centered on the development of the self alone. Rather, the purpose is to develop leaders who are committed to ideals and values to such an extent that they will work to change the society (Themes of Jesuit Higher Education). Concretely put, we aim at constantly improving ourselves, intellectually and affectively, going beyond the borders of limited horizons so in return, we come to serve others best. This is the essence of doing more. On the other, cura personalis helps renew our hearts to relate with others with deep personal care and attention. The spirit of the contemplative-in-action is the spirit of a sensitive soul discerning and finding God in all things. (Karel San Juan, SJ). Through our education, we have come to be molded into becoming men and women who are both aware and at the same time sensitive to the needs of the society upon which we inhabit. As we end our tenureship in college, may we carry along with us the mission of the society to promote justice in our society. May this ideal be always concretely operative in our lives.

Fr. Peter-Hans Kolvenbach, S.J. tells us insights of Ignatian transformation: to know as God knows, to choose as God chooses, and to love as God loves. This transformed knowing, choosing, and loving are the hallmarks of the person who has learned Ignatian discernment, who engages the call to justice in all dimensions, refusing to cave in to the limitations of ideology even as he or she cooperates fully with others of good will.

To my fellow graduates, I pose before us the challenge of our times: let us heed the call for participation in the transformation of our society as it fully appears to us. Let us do our share in promoting the basic Ignatian purpose and thrust to our respective communities. Let us model the process of transformation by ensuring that we observe and live upon the ideals of truth, justice, and equity. And to our parents, teachers, colleagues and friends, continue to be our beacons of hope as we embark on yet another point in our lives where we face a new set of challenges we all wait to triumph over.

Thank you very much.

(Source: www.addu.edu.ph) - Thanks to Cristyl for sharing a copy of her speech.

STAND WITH TIBET

Stand With Tibet

Photo courtesy of BBC News

Dear friends,

After decades of repression under Chinese rule, the Tibetan people's frustrations have burst onto the streets in protests and riots. With the spotlight of the upcoming Olympic Games now on China, Tibetans are crying out to the world for change.

The Chinese government has said that the protesters who have not yet surrendered "will be punished". Its leaders are right now considering a crucial choice between escalating brutality or dialogue that could determine the future of Tibet, and China.

We can affect this historic choice--China does care about its international reputation. China's President Hu Jintao needs to hear that the 'Made in China' brand and the upcoming Olympics in Beijing can succeed only if he makes the right choice. But it will take an avalanche of global people power to get his attention--and we need it in the next 48 hours.

The Tibetan Nobel peace prize winner and spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama has called for restraint and dialogue: he needs the world's people to support him. Click below now to sign the petition--and tell absolutely everyone you can right away--our goal is 1 million voices united for Tibet:

STAND WITH TIBET

China's economy is totally dependent on "Made in China" exports that we all buy, and the government is keen to make the Olympics in Beijing this summer a celebration of a new China, respected as a leading world power. China is also a very diverse country with a brutal past and has reason to be concerned about its stability -- some of Tibet's rioters killed innocent people. But President Hu must recognize that the greatest danger to Chinese stability and development comes from hardliners who advocate escalating repression, not from Tibetans who seek dialogue and reform.

We will deliver our petition directly to Chinese officials in London, New York, and Beijing, but it must be a massive number before we deliver the petition. Please forward this email to your address book with a note explaining to your friends why this is important, or use our tell-a-friend tool to email your address book--it will come up after you sign the petition.

The Tibetan people have suffered quietly for decades. It is finally their moment to speak--we must help them be heard.

With hope and respect,

Ricken, Iain, Graziela, Paul, Galit, Pascal, Milena, Ben and the whole Avaaz team

PS - It has been suggested that the Chinese government may block the Avaaz website as a result of this email, and thousands of Avaaz members in China will no longer be able to participate in our community. A poll of Avaaz members over the weekend showed that over 80% of us believed it was still important to act on Tibet despite this terrible potential loss to our community, if we thought we could make a difference. If we are blocked, Avaaz will help maintain the campaign for internet freedom for all Chinese people, so that our members in China can one day rejoin our community.

Here are some links with more information on the Tibetan protests and the Chinese response:
BBC News: UN Calls for Restraint in Tibet - http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/7301912.stm
Human Right Watch: China Restrain from Violently Attacking Protesters - http://hrw.org/english/docs/2008/03/15/china18291.htm
Associated Press: Tibet Unrest Sparks Global Reaction - http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5gSSpPcDOPMoAiRLhPUyezuCRiXBQD8VFDD680
New York Times: China Takes Steps to Thwart Reporting on Tibet Protests - http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/18/world/asia/18access.html?ref=world
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ABOUT AVAAZ

Avaaz.org is an independent, not-for-profit global campaigning organization that works to ensure that the views and values of the world's people inform global decision-making. (Avaaz means "voice" in many languages.) Avaaz receives no money from governments or corporations, and is staffed by a global team based in London, Rio de Janeiro, New York, Paris, Washington DC, and Geneva.

To ensure that Avaaz messages reach your inbox, please add avaaz@avaaz.org to your address book. To change your email address, language settings, or other personal information, go here, or simply go here to unsubscribe.To contact Avaaz, please do not reply to this email. Instead, write to info@avaaz.org. You can also send postal mail to our New York office: 260 Fifth Avenue, 9th floor, New York, NY 10001 U.S.A.

If you have technical problems, please go to http://www.avaaz.org.

Janina San Miguel, my take

The most entertaining part of Bb. Pilipinas 2008 was the question and answer portion. Based from the questions prepared for them by the judges, one contestant said she would like to emulate President Macapagal Arroyo (ows, kawawa naman), another one would like to do Mother Theresa (go gurl!) and the answer of Janina San Miguel, who eventually won Bb. Pilipinas World, was a classic that could go viral and surpass the interview boo boos of Miss Teen South Carolina Lauren Caitlin Upton.

Hilarious it may seem, many thought that she did not deserve the award. Some commented that the pageant should advance the tradition of "beauty and brains" in the country, and her winning was a disaster to the Philippines. A few opined that she would be a catastrophe when she would represent the country in the international pageant.

... and all of these because of her answer to the question: "Well, my family’s role for me is so important becoz there was the wa- they’re, they was the one who’s …. very… Haha .… Oh I’m so sorry, uhmm …. My pamily .… My pamily .… Oh my god …. Ok, I’m so sorry .… I .… I told you that I’m so confident .… Eto, uhhmm, Wait .… Hahahahaha, uhmmm, Sorry guys becoz this was really my first pageant ever becoz I’m only 17 years old and ahahaha I, I did not expect that I came from, I came from one of the tough 10. Hmmm, so .… but I said that my family es the most important persons in my life. Thank you."

She is a Mass Comm student in the University of the East, and the one who posed the question was Viviene Tan, the executive of Thames Business School and a daughter of PAL's Lucio Tan (hmm related to Ms. Criselda Tan, ADDU Mass Comm 2007). Dissecting her verbatim speech and seeing her actual video footage on You.Tube, I wonder if people realize that she knew the answer, but she was destitute in words. The poor girl was laughed at by the audience, as in ROFLOLMAO. Kawawa talaga.

My take: when she goes to the international pageant, I suggest she answers all questions in Filipino. She brings an interpreter. That's what those Brazilian, Ukrainian and Mexican contestants have been doing because of the the FACT that ENGLISH is not their mother twang. I guess Janina should do it also.

Second, question and answer in Bb. Pilipinas should be both be in English and Filipino. Everyone has a common sense and such question as posed by Bb. Tan can be answered even by a pre-schooler. Just ask it in Filipino, and Janina can answer you in 30 minutes extemporaneously. Kaya nga Binibining Pilipinas!

Latin Honors: Commencement Exercises 2008

Magna Cum Laude:

1. Jollie May S. Alegre, AB Med Bio
2. Pamela A. Bitang, AB Engl
3. Kristine Jan F. Donayre, BS Math
4. Rafonzel J. Fazon, AB MC
5. Joseph III M. Go, BSPA
6. Louie Mark D. Iligan, BSA
7. Noewen Kristine R. Lamoste, AB MC
8. Jennifer Jeanne S. Lim Bok, BSA
9. Raymund Christian S. Ong Abrantes, BSA
10. Joanna Grace M. Rivera, AB Med Bio
11. Rico Angelo H. Rivera, BSCS
12. Marvelous A. Sarael, AB Med Bio
13. Cristyl Mae B. Senajon, AB MC
14. Florence Therese A. Tan, BSBA Entrep
15. Venetia Ruth S. Uyking, BSBA Entrep

Cum Laude:

1. Mahany C. Abdullah, AB IS-AMST
2. Kaye Lina Rae D. Acob, BSA
3. Shanilee A. Alimes, BSA
4. Jeffrey S. Aliudin, BSN
5. Aril Jay E. Allera, BSA
6. Niña Marie C. Ancajas, BSN
7. Allen Benedict S. Andama, BSCS
8. Mary Ann C. Andicoy, BSEd Engl
9. Valerie A. Angelitud, BSN
10. Jessa M. Aringo, BSA
11. Glen Martin B. Arquiza, BSA
12. Eda Mae A. Badilla, BSA
13. Harvey P. Ballo, BSC MA
14. Eonel Ray S. Barut, BSN
15. Paolo Ray E. Bataller, AB Engl
16. Liela Mae B. Bohol, BSA
17. Fasl Goldanne B. Buenaflor, BSN
18. Katlene O. Cacho, AB MC
19. Jenny-Lyne Rachelle M. Cagadas, BSN
20. Vernice Ria G. Calderon, BSC MA
21. Crystal Angelie A. Cansancio, BSA
22. Amaylou L. Chua, BSA
23. Ian B. Corbilla, BSA
24. Mary Donna Grace J. Cuenca, AB PolSc
25. Norman Farrish A. Datukon¸BSA
26. Jeannie C. Dedicatoria, BSN
27. Cherry Marie E. Delfin, AB MC
28. Guia Marie C. Delicana, BSIE
29. Dionisio C. Diniay Jr., AB PolSc
30. Peter Paul S. Dormile, BSA
31. Bernadine Joyce S. Elizaga, BSEd Engl
32. Lora Angeline B. Embudo, BSN
33. Claire Y. Evangelista, BSA
34. Gabrielle Angela G. Fuentes, AB Psych
35. Philip S. Galagar, AB MC
36. Angelica Kay D. Go, BSN
37. Faith P. Go, AB Engl
38. Frances Claudine R. Granada, AB IS-ASST
39. Bryan Edgar K. Guevara, AB Med Bio
40. Auda Amor A. Gullos, AB Psych
41. Laureen Mae K. Hao, BSC MA
42. Louelyn N. Hermano, BS Bio
43. Erika Gail G. Hernandez, AB Med Bio
44. Daniel Unno H. Hiquiana, AB Med Bio
45. Cherry Anne M. Jabonero, BSChE
46. Lanie A. Jamboy, AB MC
47. Lovely Mae F. Kintanar, BSC MA
48. Hanna M. Leyes, AB MC
49. Sheana Marie B. Liza, BSA
50. Kimmy A. Lopez, BSA
51. Zenith Krismerlyn P. Lu, BSCS
52. Ivy Sheryl Q. Madelo, AB Med Bio
53. Jan Dino R. Magnaye, BSBA Mgt
54. Princess R. Martin, AB IS-ASST
55. Jared Manuel P. Martinez, AB MedBio
56. Rafael L. Mendoza, BSA
57. Edelyn T. Mondejar, BSBA Mktg
58. Michael Dorothy Frances G. Montojo, BSN
59. Trisha Marie F. Nalla, BEEd Presch
60. Beryl Charm P. Narciso, AB MedBio
61. Rose Sheena C. Navacilla, BSC MA
62. Paolamarie L. Nicolas, AB IS-AMST
63. Leonard B. Odjinar, BSBio
64. Joy Reihannah U. Paguital, BSA
65. Janeth G. Parreño, AB MC
66. Ryan B. Perocho, BSA
67. Maricar L. Pinat, BSA
68. Daryl John M. Pinili, AB Psych
69. Theresa Fe Q. Pitogo, AB MC
70. Ruann May C. Pogado, AB MC
71. Anna Rhieza S. Rallos, AB MC
72. Freah G. Ramos, BSA
73. Liemer Grace P. Rivera, BSC MA
74. Eda Karla O. Rodriguez, BS Arch
75. Joseph Anthony F. Rosello, BSC MA
76. Candice Dominique L. Sayson, AB MC
77. Eishen F. Serra, BSBA Mgt
78. Lani L. Shiong Shu, BSChem
79. Carmel Grace O. Simafranca, BSEd Math
80. Katherine Ann V. Soledad, BSBio
81. Patrick James B. Son, BSBA Mgt
82. Willa Mae L. Taboada, BSA
83. Vic Anthony A. Tabuada, BSA
84. Patricia Angela B. Tacder, AB IS-ASST
85. Bernadeth V. Uybubulante, BEEd Engl
86. Aileen Rose Uy, BSIE
87. Maria Ysabela I. Vergara, BSA
88. Julie Marie M. Villa, BEEd Engl
89. Josef Rene L. Villanueva, BSECE
90. Joanne Gracelle C. Yap, BSBA Mktg

Graduation Awards 2008

In a memorandum issued by the Officer-in-Charge of the University, Dr. Jessie B. Manuta, Ph.D., at the recommendation of the Graduation Honors and Awards Committee, the following graduating students will receive these awards at Commencement 2008:

Class Valedictorian: Ms. Cristyl Mae B. Senajon, AB Mass Comm (magna cum laude)

Class Salutatorian: Mr. Joseph M. Go III, BS Public Adm (magna cum laude)

Leadership Award: Ms. Cristyl Mae B. Senajon, AB Mass Comm (magna cum laude)

Faith and Justice Award: Ms. Cristyl Mae B. Senajon, AB Mass Comm (magna cum laude)

Division/ Program Awards:

Accountancy: Raymund Christian S. Ong Abrantes, BS Accountancy (magna cum laude)

Business Administration: Lloyd A. Genesiran, BSBA-HRM

Computer Science: Jeshurun Ray E. Flores, BS Computer Science

Engineering/ Architecture: Joyce A. Lamoste, BS Civil Engineering

Humanities: Noewen Kristine R. Lamoste, AB Mass Comm (magna cum laude)

Natural Science/ Mathematics: Kristine Jan F. Donayre, BS Math (magna cum laude)

Nursing: Fasl Goldanne B. Buenaflor, BS Nursing (cum laude)

Congratulations!

Ngayong gabi maari kong isulat Ang pinakamalungkot na taludtod

Ngayong Gabi Maari Kong Isulat ang Pinakamalungkot na Taludtod
Pablo Nedura
(Salin ni Bong Eliab mula sa "Tonight I can write the saddest lines")

Ngayong gabi maari kong isulat
Ang pinakamalungkot na taludtod.

Isulat, halimbawa, "Winasak ang gabi
At nanginginig ang mga bughaw na tala sa kalayuan."

Sa gabing umiikot ang hangin sa himpapawid, kumakanta.

Ngayong gabi maari kong isulat
Ang pinakamalungkot na taludtod.
Inibig ko siya, at minsan inibig niya rin ako.

Habang gabi tulad ngayon niyakap ko siya
Paulit-ulit na hinagkan sa ilalim ng langit na walang hanggan.

Minahal niya ako minsan, at minahal ko rin siya.
Paanong `di maaring mahalin ang kanyang dakila't mapayapang mata.

Ngayong gabi maari kong isulat
Ang pinakamalungkot na taludtod.
Isip-isipin wala na siya sa akin.
Ramdam na nawala ko siya.

Dinggin ang kalawakan ng gabi,
Nang nawala siya mas lumawak.
Nahuhulog ang mga berso sa kalooban
Parang hamog sa parang.

Ano ang halaga ng aking pag-ibig
Na di kaya siyang panatilihin.
Winasak ang gabi
At wala siya sa aking piling.

Ito lahat. Mula sa kalayuan merong kumakanta.
Mula sa kalayuan.
Mabigat ang kalooban
Nawalan.

Aking paningin naghahanap sa kanya
Tila tumutungo sa kanya.
Aking puso naghahagilap sa kanya
At wala siya sa piling ko.

(abangan .....)

Alert! Stolen Laptops

Apple MacBook (white)
serial no. W875 24CG Z62
part no. MB0 61Z A/B
model A1181

ASUS EEEPC (white)
serial no. 7A0 AAQ 025 997
model no. ASU 701

HP COMPAQ NC6220 (black)
serial no. CNU6 091H JQ
par no. EA7 66U C#UUF

Please inform the Davao Mac Users Group (davmug@gmail.com) if you happen to be offered the following the laptops with those serial numbers. Please report immediately the name of the seller to the nearest police outpost or dial 166, 241-1411 (Buhangin), or 226-4835 (San Pedro), 300-1244 (Sta Ana), 297-1598 (Talomo). The computers are owned by Mark Maglana and were stolen last March 1, 2008 in their home.

Prof Baltimore Talk in Davao Cancelled

In an email received this week, Prof. Baltimore postponed his trip to the Davao City, Philippines after he made this comment recently (see news below). So with Prof. Ramos-Horta still in Australian hospital and Prof. Baltimore cancelling his talk in the University, we hope to have another Nobel Laureate coming late this year.

I will keep you posted.

----- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -


HIV vaccine research hits impasse

By Helen Briggs Science reporter, BBC News, Boston

HIV has evolved to protect itself from the human immune system

Scientists are no further forward in developing a vaccine against HIV after more than 20 years of research, a Nobel Prize-winning biologist has said.

Professor David Baltimore, president of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), said there was little hope among scientists.

But he said that they were continuing efforts to develop a vaccine.

"Our lack of success may be understandable but it is not acceptable," he said.

"Some years ago I came to the conclusion that our community had to seriously undertake new approaches or we might find ourselves with a worldwide epidemic and no effective response," Prof Baltimore told the annual meeting of the AAAS in Boston.

"That is just where we are today."

I believe that HIV has found ways to totally fool the immune system - so we have to do one better than nature Professor David Baltimore Is HIV beating the scientists?

HIV had evolved a way to protect itself from the human immune system, he said.

"This is a huge challenge because to control HIV immunologically the scientific community has to beat out nature, do something that nature, with its advantage of four billion years of evolution, has not been able to do," Prof Baltimore said.

"I believe that HIV has found ways to totally fool the immune system.

"So we have to do one better than nature."

'One shot'

Attempts to control the virus through antibodies or by boosting the body's immune system have ended in failure.

This has left the vaccine community depressed because they can see no hopeful way of success, Prof Baltimore said.

Guide: The biology of Aids

Among the novel techniques that scientists are turning to are gene and stem cell therapy, although these are still in their infancy.

"In the human you really only have one shot which is to try to change genes in stem cells," said Prof Baltimore, one of the leading experts on the HIV virus.

"So we're trying to do that, to design vectors that can carry genes that will be of therapeutic advantage."

Prof Baltimore won the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 1975 for the co-discovery of reverse transcriptase, an enzyme that was later found to be used by HIV to replicate in human cells.

He now leads the Baltimore laboratory at Caltech, with support from the Gates Foundation, to look for ways to genetically boost the immune system against infectious agents, particularly HIV.

Tell the Truth! Now!

More photo at Prayer Rally at ADDU

Ateneo de Davao University Community Statement

Ateneo de Davao University Community Statement
22 February 2008, Davao City

The Scandal of Corruption

Our country today is in a very deep political and moral crisis. We see its impact on the face of Jun Lozada, the reluctant star witness. He fears for his life and for his family’s safety, as he struggles to speak out what he knows about the NBN-ZTE deal. This $329-million controversial deal apparently has a built-in $130-million kickback. This is very disturbing! Whoever has the key to the solution to this problem, speak! We want to know the truth!

Whistleblower Lozada, of course, is not a saint. He himself confesses his previous wrongdoi8ng. But his bold witnessing overcomes the tricks some authorities employ to avoid saying what they know and to prevent those who know from speaking out. The greatest casualty here is the truth. So tell us the truth, now!

For if all this is true, then it will confirm the grand scale corruption that the Philippine bishops have relentlessly been preaching against. According to the Editorial of the official publication of the Philippine Bishops, “Graft and corruption in the government are so endemic and extensive that socio-political integrity in governance has seemingly become a moral impossibility to achieve during the remaining three-year tenure of the present national leadership” (CBCP Monitor June 25-July 8, 2007, p. A4). This is a heavy statement.

We would be hypocritical, however, if we blame only the government. At the moment, no social institution in Philippine society seems immune to corruption. So, like Lozada, the media must also say “Mea culpa” for some distorted reporting. Like Lozada, the Church must also admit its lack of transparency in its institutions, and should also say “Mea culpa”. Like Lozada, the private sector must stop bribery and not yield to extortion, and say, “Mea culpa”. This collective admission of guilt is part of our communal cleansing. And this Lenten Season should be a good time to confess the sad truth of our participation in corruption.

The Blessing of Integrity

Thank God, there is another truth to be told. The probinsyanong Intsik is not alone. There are many more whistleblowers, who, in less sensational ways, live up to the demands of living a life of integrity. We witness the heroic citizenship of ordinary employees who continue, despite low salaries, to pour their energies into their public service. We know of judges who retire with peace of mind because they have held fast to their principles. All this is also true!

We bless the dynamic leaders who literally walk the streets in delivering basic services to their people. We affirm the achievements of conscientious individuals in the corporate world and the religious groups who combine professional competence with social conscience. All this must also be hailed for they are true!

We celebrate, with both sacred rage and serene faith, the death of our contemporary martyrs who have sacrificed life, job, and family for the sake of justice. They lived in the joy and consolation of the truth!

Communal Action for Truth

Now, in response to the call of Philippine bishops and various vigilant groups, the Ateneo de Davao University students, faculty, administration, staff, and other concerned citizens here in Davao City join together in “communal action,” to pray hard and work even harder for enlightenment, cleansing, and the courage to live by the “truth that sets us free” (John 8:32). We commit ourselves to continuous struggle—within our own selves, our families and institutions—to abhor lies and to uphold truth.

At the same time, we challenge those who hold positions of public trust—please check and recheck your values. We call on their relatives to interrogate the acts of their fathers or mothers or sons or daughters in positions of power. Do not be the cause of their downfall.

We call on the students and alumni—you are the best contribution of schools to society. Remember the values that your school stands for. Do not bring shame to your Alma Mater.

We call on the religious communities and members of civil society. Support the authentic whistleblowers. Give them shelter. Help them discern. Take care of their families. More importantly, do not leave individual whistleblowers to carry the burden of shaking the conscience of society. Let us transform our groups into prophetic communities and communal whistleblowers.

We call everyone to tell your stories of pain and anger, your dreams and energies. In homes and classrooms, talk about Filipinos who tell the truth. Tell children not to cheat their way to success. Teach them hard and honest work. Tell them to respect the real value of words—and numbers. Remind them of the dignity of our people.

We believe that the present crisis is not in our genes. Even our seemingly immovable social structure and incorrigible culture of corruption cannot be our eternal destiny. If we dare to change, things will change. So let us change!

What we now see as an apparent dead-end may yet turn out to be the threshold of a new creation. In the “darkness that covered the abyss” in the beginning of creation, God’s “mighty wind swept over the waters. God said, ‘Let there be light. And there was light’” (Genesis 1:2-3). In the seemingly desperate situation our country is in today, let the mighty wind of God’s spirit move us. Let there be movement! And there shall be change! But first, give us no less than the truth, and the faith to face it—now!

Contact information:

Social Involvement Coordinating Office
Ateneo de Davao University
E. Jacinto St., 8016 Davao City
Tel. No. (82) 221.2411 local 8329
Fax (82) 226.4116

Fr. Albert E. Alejo S.J.
Ehem! Coordinator
Jesuit Residence
Ateneo de Davao University
E. Jacinto St., 8016 Davao City
Tel. No. (82) 221.2411 local 8716
Fax (82) 226.4116