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White & Blue

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White & Blue is the official student publication of Saint Louis University, Baguio City We're more than just a paper.

24/12/2024

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝗲𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗩𝗼𝗶𝗱

The twinkle of lights glistened against the cold air—a small celebration, yet full of love and laughter. There was a time when our Christmas feast was simple –bread, a hotdog on a stick with a marshmallow, and perhaps a small macaroni salad that felt like a luxury. Cousins played around while the adults filled the room with broad smiles and laughter. My family would be there, having a moment amid the December breeze, surrounded by Christmas decorations and flickering lights, reveling in the joy of having everyone together.

We didn't have much back then, but in my own precious eyes, I knew we had everything. Our plates were never full, but our hearts were overflowing. The warmth of my cousins' embrace, the raucous jokes from my titas and uncles, and the soft hum of Christmas carols in the background are the moments we unwrap every year. No material gifts were given, but I will never trade those moments with anything.

Now, the table is grand with food I only dream of having. The feast is grander, the decorations are extravagant, and our lives are better. The laughter, however, is quieter. Many of the chairs are empty, filled only by the absence of those relatives who’ve left or moved to different places. My titas and titos, along with my cousins are scattered, their lives busy and distant, with only a greeting sent through cold screens instead of a warm, tight embrace. My Mama still tries to play a Christmas carol in the background, but it sounds lonelier now, echoing through the house that feels so large.

I silently sit at the table, longing for the presence of those who once filled the room with love and memories. My hands touch the silverware, but my heart yearns for the moments of our past. The gifts we now have feel hollow, unable to replace those moments I shared with a complete family at the table.

We thought that having more would make us happier, but the truth is no celebration, however lavish it is, can replace the joy of a full family. I close my eyes and say a silent prayer, not for more distance, but for a miracle — the kind that brings back the spirit of Christmas, fills the empty seats, and rekindles the warmth of togetherness. I pray that one day, the simple meals of our past will return, not on our plates, but in the love that surrounds our home and makes it whole.

This is the meaning of Christmas: it's not the lavish meals on the table that matter, but those people who make the celebration worthwhile. And though I cannot go back to the yesteryears, I hold on to the hope that the years ahead will not bring loneliness, but be filled with warm and tight embrace from the people who shaped Christmas into a time for laughter.

By Honey Keith Cabela
Layout by Sam Santiago

20/12/2024

𝐋𝐀𝐒𝐀 𝐍𝐆 𝐋𝐀𝐍𝐒𝐀𝐍𝐆𝐀𝐍

Sa mundong hindi perpekto, nasa ating kamay ang kapangyarihang baguhin ito. Ang ambisyon at determinasyong dumadaloy sa ugat ng bawat tao ang nagpapatakbo sa pagbabago, kahit ito’y nakaaapekto lamang sa sarili o kaya’y sa buong bayan.

Kahit tila’y mahirap mabago ang mundo mula sa ating mga munting boses, ang ating simpleng pananalita ay paniguradong maririnig ng iba. Makilahok, makibaka, at sumigaw—buksan ang tenga ng mga nagbibingi-bingian—dahil ang pagbabago ay magsisimula sa’yo.

Kaya’t para sa’yo, ano ang lasa ng lansangan?
____________________

KUWADERNO XIX CALL FOR ENTRIES

Ang Kuwaderno ay ang literary folio ng White & Blue. Sa temang Lasa ng Lansangan, itatampok ng Kuwaderno XIX ang mga tunay na kwento, sining, at repleksyon na magbibigay-liwanag sa mga mahahalagang isyung panlipunan at mga kuwentong hinubog at binuo ng lansangan. Ngayong edisyon, pinapaunlakan namin muli ang lahat ng Luwisyano na ibahagi ang kanilang kuwento gamit ang malayang sining.

Ipasa ang inyong entry sa pamamagitan ng pagsagot sa form na ito: https://tinyurl.com/2x5r6zjk

Frequently Asked Questions: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/AZJfBHNd7XUuthb9/

Para sa iba pang katanungan, maaari kayong magpadala ng mensahe sa aming page.

Scriptwriter: Josiah Joshua Bruno
Actress: Ruth Anne de Jesus
Videographer: Johan Rickardo Roxas
Video Editor: Johan Rickardo Roxas

11/12/2024

𝗢𝗣𝗜𝗡𝗜𝗢𝗡

𝗜𝗻 𝗗𝗲𝗳𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗗𝗲𝗳𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲

It is the nature of animals, man included, to do whatever it takes to survive. Self-defense is an innate reflex of a living body; when someone or something with a heartbeat senses a threat to its safety, it employs all necessary means to protect itself. Because of self-defense, many have killed, and many have been killed.

The infamous drug war of the Duterte administration registered an estimated 12,000 to 30,000 deaths and many of these involved self-defense. The usual narrative goes, “an addict killed for fighting back,” this kind of news is easily shrugged off by people after affirmative reactions, because in this rubble of a society, people would rather see a dead addict than a dead cop. Sycophant law enforcers speak their most favorite word with so much passion, nanlaban, and even wear it like a cape. Self-defense on the side of the addict or on the side of the cop?

Self-defense is the deployment of reasonable means to deflect an attack in order to survive. Anyone can kill and the Revised Penal Code of the Philippines can provide a wall of protection for a man who killed another. Article 11 of the mentioned law protects anyone who acts in defense of his person or rights from any murder charge. Another, it also exempts any person in fulfillment of his duty and any person who acts in obedience to an order issued by a superior for some lawful purpose, from any criminal liability. Killing a suspected criminal is still a crime except under circumstances like self-defense, this is why self-defense is often and widely invoked in defense of extrajudicial killings.

Everything checks out in self-defense on the side of a cop in a gruesome incident of killing. In order to invoke self-defense, the person who killed carries the burden of proof. A dead man cannot speak for himself. The burden of proof will just be anchored on the fact that there were only few witnesses, the body of a dead man with his alleged .38-caliber gun, and the statement of the cop who apparently fought for his life to defend himself from a suspected addict who according to him was raging and behaving dangerously.

It’s quite clever how they have learned how to circumnavigate the laws to shift the odds in their favor. With their knowledge and position, at this point, it can be concluded that somehow, a badge constitutes a license to kill. It’s ironic how the law is being used in defense of defiance of the same. The grave use and abuse of power left the country facedown in the mud. Who should the people blame for the thousands of deaths in the drug war; the addict who apparently is a danger to society, the cop who pulled the trigger, the government who enabled this horrid killings, or themselves who voted for a man who promised to kill his fellowmen?

The police force was greatly applauded by the former government for their actions in the drug war, praising them like victors. but the moment the latter's name is tainted by the acts of the former in the name of duty, the government's shadow is gone with the wind, nowhere to be found to protect their so-called heroes, as they even gravely condemn them as dulcet facade to the victims as if they weren't the ones who had encouraged this massacre.

The stories that we read were just patchworks of police reports and official statements from witnesses weaved with prevalent misinformation of what had happened the moment drug war victims were killed; we were not able to read the part where these people were good husbands, wives, parents, or children to their families; these stories fail to reveal how human they were, as they were just presented as tolls, just additions to the statistics of the drug war. Who was once a breathing bloke with sins and love is now reduced to a mere number and a cautionary tale.

Former president Rodrigo Roa Duterte is now facing the legislative department to answer questions regarding the impunity and violation of human rights of the extrajudicial killings that emerged from his administration’s drug war. Still, with his egotistical persona and disregard of the integrity of the legislative proceeding, he faced the legislators head high as if he had nothing to lose. The nation hopes that this legislative inquiry will bring the families of the victims of the macabre drug war steps closer to justice, and not just an avenue for the performative act of legislators to show that they are doing something, in preparation for the 2025 midterm elections.

12,000 to 30,000 are dead, which means 12,000 to 30,000 families will celebrate their Christmas incomplete, still with nails lodged in their hearts that long for justice. Hopefully their stories will not cease to exist together with the height of the issue that is very much feast on on social media with just the will of people to jump on a trendy bandwagon.

Many have killed and many have been killed in defense of life. A nation mourns because a man decided to use his power to play god.

What keeps a man alive? His power.

By Leslie Mon
Layout by Russel James Manucdoc

10/12/2024

𝗥𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗕𝗲𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗚𝘂𝗻𝗳𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗦𝘂𝗯𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝘀

Are we to wait only when the smoke of gunfire subsides before we rise? To rise only when the blood of the innocent drowns the oppressed and the clamoring cries of the secluded and unseen become muted in the ruins of their abode?

Are we too blind to foresee that one’s protest is no more than a faint warble in an unbridled hurricane of inhumanity?

When we casually scroll through stories of havoc, do we heedlessly breathe a sigh of relief to our own sense of entitlement to peace while turning a blind eye to the horror that ensnare the lives of others? In the end, when the smoke of gunfire clears, what remains visible are the shattered lives and dreams of those who have been silenced.

A stroll on the streets will walk us through the parade of discrimination amongst those who stand tall to project the colors of their own rainbows because this world posits that a breath of autonomy is but a forgotten whisper. On the outskirts, the crushing demands of survival and the burden of old hatreds trap souls in the suffocating smell of greed and corruption where progress is obstructed by the ironclad of control.

In this world infected with a virus of lies, we should allow the shadow of truth to endure—declaring that everyone has an unshakable dignity and shared existence. For beyond the frames of our dwellings lie families whose homes are no more than remains of logs and embers barraged by wars. In their atmosphere, the echoes of the thunders of war persist where once-fertile earth now thirsts for peace, stained with the blood of those who dared to covet freedom.

Feigning ignorance will let our rights be conquered by the hands of the oppressors, whose hands are stained with crimson and terror. No matter our differences, when we stand united in quest of justice, we create a world where every whisper and shout is heard, and every breath is valued; ergo, the picture of a humane and dignified world will endure not just as ideals but as tangible realities for all. Collective hands and hearts will bloom into a world where humanity blossoms, so even if we are cruising in the gap of conflicts and injustice, we must choose to sail towards the upliftment of humanity.

By Lylija Omengan
Illustration by Robert Mariano Molina

______________________________________________________________________

White & Blue, the official student publication of Saint Louis University, joins in the commemoration of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), annually marking December 10th the observation of Human Rights Day. As we continue the call for freedom, equality, and justice for all, we resolutely condemn the atrocious violations of human rights and the crimes against humanity as a result. May the victims and martyrs whose rights have been trampled and still continue to be trod on be remembered for their ceaseless fight against the oppressive, tyrannical systems and powers that serve to restrain them from realizing and achieving a world of peace, justice, and liberty.

09/12/2024

Every December 8, Catholics celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, recognizing that Mary was conceived without the original sin in preparation for her role as the Mother of God. In recognition and observance of this significant celebration of faith in the Philippines, the government, through Republic Act No. 10966, designates this day annually as a non-working holiday nationwide to honor the Blessed Mother, who is also the country's principal patroness.

As we celebrate the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, may this serve as a reminder to rekindle the deep connection of our spiritual devotion to our Blessed Virgin Mary, and may we reflect on her kindness and sacrifices towards our savior, Jesus Christ.

May this also serve as a reminder of our faith in God.
–

White and Blue, the official student publication of Saint Louis University, pays tribute to the sacred holiday by honoring its significance and acknowledging the deep-rooted traditional religious beliefs that it represents.

Layout by: Jovan Pascua

06/12/2024

𝘽𝙞𝙮𝙖𝙝𝙚 𝙣𝙜 𝘽𝙪𝙝𝙖𝙮

Lasap mo ba ang lasa ng lansangan—daang mahaba, puno ng kurba, at iba't ibang hain ang dala? Sa bawat eskinita, kasabay ng simoy ng hangin ay ang mga kwento na nag-aanyaya sa atin na sumakay sa biyahe ng buhay. Biyahe kasama ang mga taong may kaniya-kaniyang timpla at husay.

Sa daang puno ng pasakit, naroon ang alat ng mga matang nagliliyab sa galit. Sa kanto, may tamis sa halimuyak ng mga labing may guhit. Sa laylayan, may pait sa tunog ng mga boses na minamaliit, at sa ilalim ng maaliwalas na ulap ay naroon naman ang linamnam ng tagumpay na pilit kinakamit. Sa bawat pagpara, nakapaskil ang larawang binurdahan ng kurbang mananatili sa iyong alaala. Sa bawat pagliko, biglang darating ang asim ng kabiguan o ang anghang ng mga pagsubok habang pinapanday ka ng init ng karanasan. Sa iyong pagbaba, maaari mong matikman ang tabang ng paghihintay sa buhay na tila walang kasiguraduhan. Sapagkat sa bawat kilometro na ating binabagtas, nariyan ang mga kwentong pinipiga ng mga alon ng pangarap na siyang humuhubog sa agos ng buhay.

Saksi ka sa mga ganitong kwento. Pero, ano nga ba ang tunay na lasa ng lansangan para sa’yo?

ni Lylija Xyra Omengan
Litrato ni Kraig Ethan Luis
Inilapat ni Dave Adrian Ortiz at Allyson Joye Awingan

________________________

KUWADERNO XIX CALL FOR ENTRIES

Ang Kuwaderno ay ang literary folio ng White & Blue. Sa temang Lasa ng Lansangan, itatampok ng Kuwaderno XIX ang mga tunay na kwento, sining, at repleksyon na magbibigay-liwanag sa mga mahahalagang isyung panlipunan. Ngayong edisyon, pinapaunlakan namin muli ang lahat ng Luwisyano na ibahagi ang kanilang kuwento gamit ang malayang sining.

Ipasa ang inyong entry sa pamamagitan ng pagsagot sa form na ito: https://tinyurl.com/2x5r6zjk

Para sa iba pang katanungan, maaari kayong magpadala ng mensahe sa aming page.

03/12/2024

[𝗥𝗘𝗖𝗔𝗣] 𝗔𝗻𝗮𝗸𝗯𝗮𝘆𝗮𝗻 𝗠𝗕, 𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗽𝘀 𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗱 𝗕𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗳𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗼 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁

In commemoration of the 161st Bonifacio Day, 60th Kabataang Makabayan Anniversary, and 26th Anakbayan (AB) Anniversary, members from various progressive and civic groups convened for a protest at Malcolm Square last November 30.

Led by Anakbayan-Metro Baguio (AB-MB), the theme “Isabuhay ang Diwa ng Kabataang Makabayan! Ipaglaban ang Lupa, Sahod, Trabaho, Karapatan, at Edukasyon,” aims to express minor sectors’ sentiments and petitions on different social issues, including jeepney phaseout, minimum wage increase, political crisis, human rights violations, and agricultural challenges.

In his speech, Carlito Wayas, President of Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Operator Nationwide-Metro Baguio (PISTON-MB) expressed his plea to help them in line with the oil increase and the modernization of Public Utility Vehicles (PUVs).

“Nandyan din po ang sinasabi nilang modernisasyon ng aming mga sasakyan, na matagal na naming tinutunggali o ipinaglalaban dahil kapag ito’y natuloy, ang privatization ng mga sasakyan o modernization, ibig sabihin mamatay na ang mga tsuper at maliliit na operator,” Wayas said.

Meanwhile, Gerry Cacho of Tongtongan Ti Umili-Cordillera Peoples Alliance (TTU-CPA) discussed the implications of PUV Modernization including the fair price hike in mixed Filipino and Ilocano.

“Kung iyong mga modern busses ang tatakbo sa mga kalsada ng Baguio, o ng buong rehiyong Kordilyera, pero partikyular sa Baguio, ang first 4km fair ay magiging P53. Kabataan, dakayu ti mangtawid iti daytuy nga pag-iliyan… Mawawala pa sa kontrol ng estado kung papaano ang fair nating mga komyuters. Isu nga saan laeng nga laban dagiti operators ken draybers daytuy nga transport modernization,” Cacho said.

Further, she also discussed the current development aggression happening in Baguio and urged the youth to fight for the minor sectors saying, “Ang mukha ng development aggression sa siyudad ng Baguio ay iyong maraming neoliberal projects dito; iyong mallification ng market, expansion ng airport, iyong korporitasyon ng mga lupain na saklaw ng BCDA na lumawak pa by 50 hectares dahil sa approved charter ng current congressman.”

Moreover, Ana Patricia Adiaz, AB-MB Spokesperson, discussed some of the challenges faced by the minorities such as underpayment of workers, farmers being deprived or even dispossessed of their farmlands, the lack of access to free and quality education, and the suffering of indigenous peoples through exploitation.

She further emphasized the government’s actions in line with the said social issues saying, “At ano ang tugon ng estado rito? Walang iba kundi matinding pasismo, pananakot, pandarahas, pandurukot, militarisasyon, at pagkitil sa mga mamamayang lumalaban.”

Adiaz also challenged the authorities in light of their red-tagging scheme by saying, “At bago pa man po kami bansagan ng estado bilang mga terorista at bago pa man kami i-red-tag, kayo po ang tatanungin namin. Alin po ba sa mga hawak namin ngayon ang maituturing ninyong armas? Alin po ba sa mga panawagan namin dito ngayon ang maituturing ninyong banta sa seguridad ng ating bansa? Alin po ba sa pagyakap naming mga kabataan sa kalayaan naming mag-isip ang ituturing na terorismo?”

Meanwhile, in an interview, she explained the importance of embodying Bonifacio’s teachings in addressing the pressing issues in our society today, drawing a resemblance to the 1896 Philippine Revolution.

“Parang same essence lang na pinaglalaban din natin sa kasalukuyang panahon iyong kalaayan natin, ng bansa natin, hindi lang sa mga ibang mga bansang nanghihimasok kundi gusto rin natin palayain ang lahat ng mga Pilipino sa kahirapan, sa korapsiyon, sa kawalan ng serbisyong panlipunan, sa paglabag sa mga karapatang pantao, at iba pa,” she stated.

She also mentioned that Anakbayan does not only do rallies, but also promotes educational discussions and visits other communities to understand their conditions and identify the issues that oppress them.

“Iyong Anakbayan, bukod sa pagsasagawa ng mga rally, ng mga kilos-protesta, constantly rin siyang nagsasagawa ng mga educational discussions… Tapos bukod doon, pumupunta rin ang Anakbayan at ang mga kabataan sa iba’t ibang mga komunidad na labas pa sa lungsod…,” Adiaz stated.

Among the participants were AB Saint Louis University (SLU), SLU Democratic Alliance of Students for Integrated Governance (DASIG), Bahaghari SLU, Innabuyog Gabriela Youth (IGY), AB University of Cordilleras (UC), AB University of the Philippines Baguio (UPB), UPB Outcrop, Kabataan Partylist Cordillera, AB-MB, AB Cordillera, League of Filipino Students MB, Campus Alliance for Dedicated and Unified Action (CADUA), Progressive Igorots for Social Action (PIGSA), Dao-Ayan Ti Kultura Iti Kordilyera (DTKK).

By Paul David Bermudez
Photos by Mond Baldonadi

03/12/2024

𝗦𝗟𝗨 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝗯𝗿𝘂𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗲𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀, 𝗽𝗹𝘂𝗰𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘁𝗵 𝗶𝗻 𝗕𝗕𝗘𝗔𝗟 𝗦𝗲𝗽𝗮𝗸 𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗿𝗮𝘄

Saint Louis University (SLU) Navigators portrayed teamwork and resiliency in the Baguio-Benguet Educational Athletic League (BBEAL) Season 35 Sepak Takraw tournament held at the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Gym and University of the Cordilleras (UC) Gym last November 16 and November 30, respectively.

Despite the fierce competition, SLU Navigators secured a commendable fourth-place finish after falling short against powerhouse teams Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC), University of the Cordilleras (UC), and Benguet State University (BSU), who claimed the top three spots in order.

by Xylo Fernando

03/12/2024

𝗦𝗟𝗨’𝘀 𝟭𝟲𝘁𝗵 𝗟𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗲 𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝘂𝗽 𝗕𝗮𝗴𝘂𝗶𝗼; 𝘄𝗲𝗹𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀 𝗬𝘂𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝘀𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗼𝗻

The City of Baguio dazzled once again as Saint Louis University (SLU) celebrated the 16th Lantern Parade at Upper Session Road en route to Melvin Jones Grandstand yesterday, December 1.

Conveying the theme, "Missio et Excellentia: Championing Sustainability, Promoting Inclusive Education, Pioneering Innovation," this year’s lantern parade highlights the use of recycled and eco-friendly materials and centers on embracing the season of giving with a renewed focus on impactful education that promises a responsible future for all.

Before the commencement of the Lantern Parade, performances by the University of Baguio (UB) Voices, contestants of Enchanting Christmas Dance, SLU Marching Band, and University of the Cordilleras (UC) Dance Company entertained the onlookers as part of the Baguio Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Upper Session Road Rotonda.

Thereafter, the much-anticipated lighting of Baguio’s stained glass-inspired giant Christmas tree where Rev. Fr. Emery Ebumea Mwako, CICM; SLU-Sacred Heart Medical Center Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Emanuel Enjang Pranatal, CICM; Rev. Fr. John Salama; and Rev. Fr. Macwayne Maniwang, CICM blessed the said Christmas tree.

𝘼 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙𝙬𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝘾𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙢𝙖𝙨 𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙖𝙘𝙡𝙚
Anchored on the theme “Christmas Festivities Around the World,” the competing schools delivered their five-minute field performances representing their specific country, followed by a ‘Unity Dance’ where participants danced in unison prior to the awarding ceremony.

As the only non-competing school for this year’s Lantern Parade, inspired by the beauty and symbolism of sakura blossoms and the uniqueness of a parasol, the School of Advanced Studies (SAS) represented Japan for the second time through their lanterns that conveyed hope and individuality.

Further, the School of Law (SOL) paraded their lanterns inspired by the folklore and Christmas traditions of Norway.

Moreover, inspired by the advent and Christmas season of Austria, the School of Teacher, Education, and Liberal Arts (STELA), showcased their lanterns with Christian traditions, moral narratives, and seasonal symbolism.

Featuring ice and fire elements, the School of Nursing, Allied Health and Biological Sciences (SONAHBS) illuminated the parade with their lanterns highlighting the Christmas folklore of Iceland.

Representing the United Kingdom, the School of Medicine (SOM) danced with their illuminating lanterns inspired by different eras that occurred in the country over time—the Tudor Era, the Victorian Era, and the Modern Era.

Further, captivating the culture of Christmastime in the Netherlands, the School of Engineering and Architecture (SEA) paraded with their colorful lanterns derived from symbols associated with the country and icons celebrated during the season.

Inspired by the teachings of Pope Francis, the School of Accountancy, Management, Computing, and Information Studies (SAMCIS) paraded with their lanterns, representing the Vatican, reviving the importance of what Christmas is all about—the birth of Jesus Christ.

Representing Venezuela, Basic Education School (BEDS) sparkled with their lanterns, showcasing the symbolic festivities related to the country.

The competing schools were evaluated by the board of judges, including Ron Mirabuena, Anthony Legarda, Ching Pangilinan, Leonardo Rey Cariño, Wi******er Lopez, and Manolet Garcia.

𝘽𝙀𝙙𝙎 𝙨𝙚𝙘𝙪𝙧𝙚𝙨 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙨𝙩-𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙣 𝙋𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚 𝙘𝙧𝙤𝙬𝙣
After a long wait, BEdS bagged the coveted overall championship spot for this year’s lantern parade. Further, BEdS secured the EcoLantern Innovation Award, Best in Field Performance, and Best Rhythmic Accompaniment.

Sandy Selga, the head organizer of the Basic Education School, shared that their win is an answered prayer after long years of competing in the Lantern Parade Competition.

“My prayers were granted for how many long years as 3rd runner-up and 4th runner-up. [But] this morning, I prayed. I told Him, ‘Make us number one for a change’,” Selga said.

“It took me one week just to prepare this. These 160 people. I started last week, Monday, and I finished last week, Thursday. So, the following week, starting Friday, last week until yesterday, repair-repair parts, polish na lang. So, that's why I was able to finish it for this including the choreography and everything,” Selga added.

Moreover, despite financial constraints, they were able to push through using recycled materials for lantern making.

On the other hand, SONAHBS placed 1st runner-up followed by SOM as 2nd runner-up. While the minor and special awards can be found on this link: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19Y12dWMAT/.

By Penelope Dela Cruz, Kamal Khaled Kamal Khedr, Naomi Reinoso, Angelica Christine Reyes, and Keziah Tingga-an
Photos by White & Blue Photojournalism Department

02/12/2024

𝙎𝙇𝙐-𝘾𝘾𝘼 𝙝𝙤𝙨𝙩𝙨 𝙇𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙉𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙝 𝘾𝙝𝙤𝙧𝙖𝙡𝙚 𝙁𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙖𝙡; 𝙁𝙀𝙐 𝘾𝙝𝙤𝙧𝙖𝙡𝙚 𝙘𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙨 𝙩𝙤𝙥 𝙨𝙥𝙤𝙩

Far Eastern University (FEU) Chorale was crowned as the overall champion during Saint Louis University’s (SLU) first-ever Light of the North Chorale Festival and Competition at the Center for Culture and the Arts (CCA) Theater on November 30.

"Today we have witnessed the incredible talents of 15 competing choirs, and one guest choir, each bringing their unique voices, their energy, and artistry to the stage," said Ms. Normita "Bing" Rio-Pablico, Chairperson of the event and Head of the CCA.

Judged by Mr. Tristan Ignacio, Mr. Anthony Go Villanueva, and Mr. Mark Anthony Carpio, the competition assessed each choir’s Technical Proficiency (40%), Artistic Performance (40%), and Overall Artistic Impression (20%), with each group performing two pieces, balancing technical precision with artistic creativity.

After the captivating performances, FEU Chorale emerged as champions, followed by Tarlac Männerchor as first runner-up and UB Voices Chorale as second runner-up.

A Gala Concert featuring SLU’s choral group and the award-winning Baao Children-Youth Choir added grandeur to the event. The festival concluded with a collective performance of Kumukutikutitap, showcasing the participants' shared love for music.

𝑨 𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒚 𝒐𝒇 𝒗𝒐𝒊𝒄𝒆𝒔, 𝒂 𝒔𝒚𝒎𝒑𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒚 𝒐𝒇 𝒄𝒖𝒍𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒚
The competition began with the Bataan Choral Artists, led by Mr. Joven Aguirre, whose voices painted a sacred and cultural mosaic through ‘Cruxifixus for 8 Voices’ and ‘Three Kalinga Chants.’

Following them, the UB Voices Chorale, under Mr. John Glenn Gaerlan, showcased ‘Ili-ili’ and ‘Pal-So-Seong: 8 Laughing Voices,’ which captivated the audience with its contrasting moods.

Next, the Adamson University Chorale, under Mr. John Rufiel Gallardo Aniceto, brought forth the ethereal beauty of ‘Ave Maria’ and the heartfelt innocence of ‘Marcos 10:14.’

Their performance was followed by the Baguio Central University Chamber Choir, led by Mr. Jomard Calamba, who enchanted the audience with the Baltic charm of ‘Mate Saule’ and the radiant celebration of life in ‘Nativitas.’

Afterward, the Pangasinan State University Himig Ensemble, under Ms. Ma. Cristina Cendaña Gamo, delivered a powerful performance of ‘O Magnum Mysterium’ and ‘Daluyong.

The Bicol Voices Chorale, led by Mr. Jim Rey Baloloy, led the listeners on a soulful journey of faith and belief in ‘Credo’ and ‘Kaisa-isa Niyan.’

The energy of the event was lifted by Coro Calle, under Mr. Reis Luke Aquino, whose performance of ‘Pater Noster’ and ‘Cantate Domino’ filled the hall with solemn fervor and jubilant exuberance.

Their performance was followed by M.E.S.S.I.A.H., under Mr. Ryan Samuel Ramos, who captivated the audience with the mystical depth of ‘O Sapientia’ and the vibrant brilliance of ‘Tumataginting.’

Continuing the flow of exceptional performances, the all-male Tarlac Männerchor, under Mr. Darwin Vargas delivered a stirring rendition of ‘Jubilate Deo’ followed by the soulful ‘Didn’t My Lord Deliver.’

The Nueva Ecija Singing Ambassadors, led by Mr. Joshua Fontanilla, enthralled the audience with energy and precision with ‘Avinu’ and ‘Rytmus.’

The FEU Chorale, under Mr. Roijin Suarez, next took the stage, filling the hall with the sacred tones of ‘O Magnum Mysterium’ and ‘Ang Tren.’

Further, the ELYU Chamber Singers, led by Mr. Danriv Leo Gamboa, captivated the crowd with the folk beauty of ‘Salidummay’ and the lively energy of ‘Kalejs Kala Dabesis.’

The RTU Grand Alumni Association Inc. Singers, under Mr. Cristopher Ryan Roncales, followed with a moving rendition of ‘Magnifikat’ and the heartfelt ‘Let My Love Be Heard.’

The stage was then set for Light of the Nation, under Mr. Mark Gregory Isip, who captivated the audience with the uplifting ‘Umagang Kay Ganda’ and the peaceful harmonies of ‘Peace Song.’

To wrap up the competition, the University of the Philippines (UP) Baguio Tinig Amianan, under Mr. Emmanuel Louie Aribon, left the audience with a deep sense of connection and inspiration with their ‘Amazing Grace’ and ‘Iisang Bangka’ performances.

𝑨 𝑽𝒊𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝑹𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒛𝒆𝒅
During the closing ceremony, Ms. Rio-Pablico highlighted the festival as a realization of their vision to unite choirs nationwide and provide a platform for showcasing talent and passion for music.

"Saint Louis University is known to be the 'Light of the North,' symbolizing brilliance and inspiration in the pursuit of knowledge and creativity. And now, through its Light of the North Chorale Festival and Competition, it also stands as a center for collaboration in the arts," she said.

"This vision has been close to our hearts for so long, and then one day, we all just knew it was the right time," she added.

Preparations for the event began in August, culminating in a successful celebration of unity, culture, and the power of music. Ms. Rio-Pablico expressed her gratitude for SLU’s support, particularly from Fr. Gilbert Sales, saying, "We were very happy that Fr. Gilbert Sales gave us the 'go' signal to promote it, and then, it was history." She emphasized that the event was more than just a competition—it was a celebration of unity, culture, and the boundless power of music to bring people together.

"I cannot wait to see what's next, but all I can say is... see you all in the second Light of the North Chorale and Festival Competition," she concluded.

𝑭𝑬𝑼 𝑪𝒉𝒐𝒓𝒂𝒍𝒆 𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒃𝒖𝒕𝒆𝒔 𝒔𝒖𝒄𝒄𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒄𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒆𝒇𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒅𝒆𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏
In a post-interview, FEU Chorale's Artistic Director, Mr. Suarez, described their victory as a result of determination and three months of rigorous preparation.

"Ayon, challenging kasi mayroong pinanggalingan na previous batch na kailangan mapanatili iyong same level of excellence talaga. Pero, we did our best, and we would just like to thank the judges din dahil nakita nila iyong efforts na binigay namin doon sa mga kinanta namin na aming pinaghandaan ng ilang buwan," he said.

Audience member Mr. John Jude Flores from La Union remarked, "Iba-iba talaga iyong mga performances nila, and I can say na iyong FEU Chorale, iyong programming nila... ang ganda. Iyong unang song, followed by 'Ang Tren,' grabe... na-execute talaga nila nang maayos."

By Ralph Ivan Aniceto
Photos by Ethan Luis

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