The LANCE

The LANCE The LANCE | "Vox Veritatis"- Voice of the Students. The Official Student Publication of Letran-Manila The LANCE Editorial Board A.Y.: 2024-2025

Advisor: Inst.

Carlo Concepcion, LPT
Editor-in-Chief: Eah Marie Dino
Associate Editor: Augusto Urbano II
News Editor: Jetaime Kaina Cerbito
Feature Editor: Zabrina Hong
Sports Editor: Kim Yoshi Espiritu
Design & Layout Editor: Eah Marie Dino
Chief Photojournalist: Ram Christian Campos

Managing Editor: Jia Erikah Fajardo
Deputy Managing Editor: Reigh John Bench Almendras
Web & Social Media Manager: Rich N

oellah Longakit
Circulations Manager: Kathlean Pallorina
Internal Affairs Manager: Reigh John Bench Almendras
External Affairs Manager: Augusto Urbano II
______________________________________

This is not your ordinary history. It is not a story where facts are enumerated and datelines are significant. Looking back at the years of the official student publication of Colegio de San Juan de Letran would reveal not only what happened, but how Letranites acted upon these situations This story will prove why The LANCE is worthy of its name. Four years after martial law banned student publications, The LANCE was born with the sheer passion to be the voice of the students. In September 1976, the first issue was released defining the name of the publication as a symbol of Letran’s spirit of sportsmanship, kindred-spiritedness and chivalry. It also posed the challenge not only to its writers but to the student body as well. An excerpt from the first LANCE editorial by its editor-in-chief, Ramon A. Aliño states that: “…the success of this publication rests on the students, singly and collectively since the LANCE’s aim is not only to record events but also to poke the students out of their shell… Its continued survival depends on what you contribute to the paper, not what it can do for you. Indeed, a worthy challenge.”

It is in pursuit of truth and justice that kept the fire burning in the hearts and hands of staffers. Nothing could be compromised. In the time of Retro

The 70’s were not a merry season for the press. This period of supposedly colors and music was dimmed by the suppression of freedom of expression. However, with fresh belief in the newly established form of government—still with hope— LANCE staffers opted not to contradict the government but educate the students about new decrees and laws. A section in the opinion page was devoted to chronicling political changes so that the readers may understand these. Aside from straight news and opinions, the pages of The LANCE were also filled with artful prose and poetry that showcased the creativity of the writers. A co-ed’s corner featured the beautiful faces in school. Staffers also conducted regular interviews with students to know their complaints against and suggestions for the administration. Knowing the pulse of the students gave The LANCE a clearer voice to speak out. In the time of New Wave

Gradually, the now infamous “conjugal dictatorship” was revealed, yet more journalists were getting killed. It was during the early 80’s when The LANCE staffers began to fight not only as Letranites, but as vigilant Filipinos as well. Martial law was lifted in 1981 when the charade of press freedom began. Perhaps the biggest relief of this period was when Education Minister Onofre D. Corpuz assured The LANCE of its independence from the school administration or any other authority. Ministry of Education and Culture Order 62 s.1981 stated that “no individual who is not a staff member should define nor determine the contents of the paper.” This gave more fire and courage for the staffers to hold their “lances” and fight with their pens. Though the paper was shut down and subsequently revamped in almost a year, it was published with a January 1983 issue. Instead of the traditional hierarchy, The LANCE decided to compose an editorial board which would decide how the paper should be run. Under the editorial board chairperson Medallon Abrena, The LANCE came back on track. The year 1984 can be characterized as the publication’s boldest period, where libel and death threats did not move the staffers from their stand to fight with the Filipino people. Pages of The LANCE during this year were filled with photos from rallies and stories about the struggle against the dictator. Even the feature pages presented the realities of the streets—how people were being killed and how officials were being manipulated. As LANCE staffers braved the streets, they also inked the pages. Ceferino Basilio, editor-in-chief of The LANCE, wrote in his editorial for the September 1984 issue the paper’s view on the political struggle. “They may put journalists behind bars, torture politicians, close down critic-oriented newspapers but one thing’s for sure, ‘PEOPLE POWER’ will prevail. The LANCE will surely do its share in preserving ideals and aspirations, whatever the price.”

Looking up to Marcelo “Plaridel” H. del Pilar—a Letranite who founded the propagandist paper La Solidaridad—the staffers were threatened with a libel suit by a faculty member because they expressed the truth with so much valiance.

“This is probably going to be the bleakest Christmas we’ll ever have…we have nothing to blame but Mr. Marcos who has led us into this miserable state,” said News Editor Froilan Castelo in his column “Recollections” in The LANCE’s December 1984 issue. From the 90’s to the present

The fire of campus journalism continued to burn as a new decade entered. Because the revolution was over and new presidents took over the country, the right to press freedom has never been used more often. LANCE staffers became watchdogs, not only to the government but to the Colegio as well. Discussing the apathy of Letranites remains to be one of the favorite subjects of editorials. Since the foundation of The LANCE, this has been the goal, to take Letranites out of their shell, and it is only reasonable to take some steps for action. Paolo Jamisola, editor-in-chief of The LANCE in 2002, suggested that students would be satisfied with tuition hikes when they see where their money goes. To students, the meaning of “better education” is better information and communication technology and access to better facilities. Students may have agreed with such observation but apathy was still commonplace. However, The LANCE became their mouthpiece so that sentiments were voiced. Also in 2002, Political Science students moved for a change in grade. The LANCE publicized the event and the quest to break apathy was somehow fulfilled. The LANCE encouraged students to air their complaints and not be fence sitters who were nonchalant about their environment. However, the paper reminded them that by doing so, they must not be fidgety but stand up for what they believe in. Beyond the stories and proficiency in language and grammar, The LANCE through the years has maintained a passion and purpose. The LANCE remains to be the students’ voice and the extension of their mind. This purpose may seem difficult to achieve but in the end the sense of fulfillment will be worth the effort. Someone has to stand up for somebody, and that someone is The LANCE. In the new millennium

Thirty years have passed since The LANCE began its mission to be the voice of the students. Still, life in our country has been a continuous struggle against the evils that corrupt the minds of people. Many Letranites are still apathetic about relevant issues that concern them. Problems are similar to what the early breed of writers gave their heart to in search for a solution. The battle is not yet over. Going back to the roots of The LANCE reminds us on what we must set our hearts to, find the passion once more to be the voice of the students, risking anything without compromise. The success of The LANCE still depends on how, together with the student body, make it more than pieces of paper, but priceless convictions inked in every page. All of us have the duty to keep the might of the sword and pen alive as we write new chapters of history. (an article written by: Lutchie Anne Coral)

The views expressed on this page are those of the LANCE other than shared content from the official Colegio de San Juan de Letran’s Social Media platforms, are not endorsed by Colegio de San Juan de Letran nor do they constitute any official communication from Colegio de San Juan de Letran.

Joaquin /wah-KEEN/Belated Happy Birthday!Your creativity knows no bounds, and your dedication continues to inspire every...
14/01/2025

Joaquin
/wah-KEEN/

Belated Happy Birthday!

Your creativity knows no bounds, and your dedication continues to inspire everyone around you. You’ve turned ideas into incredible designs that leave a lasting impact.

As you celebrate another year, may it bring fresh perspectives, bold opportunities, and endless moments of artistic brilliance. Thank you for making our team shine brighter! 🎨

From: The LANCE

HAPPENING NOW | As we kick off the second semester, Colegio de San Juan de Letran students are back on campus today, rea...
14/01/2025

HAPPENING NOW | As we kick off the second semester, Colegio de San Juan de Letran students are back on campus today, ready to take a fresh set of classes and embrace new challenges for the school year ahead.



✍️: Rich Longakit /The LANCE
📷: Julia Iris Eguillano /The LANCE

ICYMI | the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) department announced that updated schedules have been posted on ...
13/01/2025

ICYMI | the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) department announced that updated schedules have been posted on the respective student portals. Students were advised to check their portals for the latest updates.

Attention CLAS students!

BEYOND THE WALLS | A nationwide peace rally organized by Iglesia Ni Cristo commenced at the Quirino Grandstand, drawing ...
13/01/2025

BEYOND THE WALLS | A nationwide peace rally organized by Iglesia Ni Cristo commenced at the Quirino Grandstand, drawing over 1.4 million attendees. The event is a show of support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s stance against the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte and is set to continue across 12 more locations throughout the country.

Read more: https://thelance.letran.edu.ph/Home/ReadMore/5175



✍️: Jetaime Kaina Cerbito/The LANCE
📷: Manila DRRM Office

HAPPENING NOW | The LANCE staff is at the University of Santo Tomas for The 26th Inkblots, a national campus journalism ...
11/01/2025

HAPPENING NOW | The LANCE staff is at the University of Santo Tomas for The 26th Inkblots, a national campus journalism fellowship. Esteemed journalists are set to discuss the campus press’s role in promoting truth and accountability ahead of the 2025 elections. This year’s event aims to equip student journalists with insights and strategies to combat disinformation and uphold ethical reporting.



✍️: Rich Longakit /The LANCE
📸: Kim Yoshi Espiritu /The LANCE

SPORTS UPDATE | The former NCAA Rookie-MVP and Champion, Rhenz Abando, returns with Strong Group Athletics for the 34th ...
10/01/2025

SPORTS UPDATE | The former NCAA Rookie-MVP and Champion, Rhenz Abando, returns with Strong Group Athletics for the 34th Dubai International Basketball Championship taking place on January 24 to February 2.

This campaign is headed by main cog and former NBA All-Star Demarcus Cousins, Gilas big men Andray Blatche and Ange Kouame, PBA’s fifth overall pick Dave Ildefonso, and veteran guard Jason Brickman.

The former Letran star will be activated once again after almost 7 months of inactivity in the pro scene. The last time Abando played was with SGA in the Jones Cup where they took a chip home in July.



Source: Source Group Athletics

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1EeNMScpEp/

✍: Kim Yoshi Espiritu/ The LANCE

ICYMI | Due to the upcoming "National Rally for Peace" organized by the Iglesia Ni Cristo, the Office of the Manila Mayo...
10/01/2025

ICYMI | Due to the upcoming "National Rally for Peace" organized by the Iglesia Ni Cristo, the Office of the Manila Mayor has announced the suspension of all classes and office operations in Manila on Monday, January 13, 2025. Following this, the Colegio has also confirmed that there will be no classes on the said date.



✍️: Rich Longakit/ The LANCE



In light of the scheduled peace rally organized by Iglesia ni Cristo, as declared by the Office of the Manila Mayor, all classes and office operations will be suspended on January 13, 2025 (Monday).

Please be guided accordingly, Letranites! Arriba!

ICYMI |  Malacañang has declared the suspension of classes in all levels and government work in the cities of Manila and...
10/01/2025

ICYMI | Malacañang has declared the suspension of classes in all levels and government work in the cities of Manila and Pasay on Monday, Jan. 13, due to the "National Rally for Peace" organized by the Iglesia Ni Cristo. However, no official announcement has been made yet regarding the suspension of classes at Letran.



✍️: Rich Longakit/ The LANCE

BREAKING: Malacañang suspends classes in all levels and government work in the cities of Manila and Pasay this Monday, January 13, 2025, due to the "National Rally for Peace" of the Iglesia Ni Cristo.

However, agencies engaged in the delivery of basic and health services, disaster preparedness and response, and performance of vital services shall continue their operations.

Suspension of work in private companies and offices is left to the discretion of their respective heads.

ADVISORY | In light of the Feast of the Black Nazarene and road closures, Elementary and Junior High School classes will...
07/01/2025

ADVISORY | In light of the Feast of the Black Nazarene and road closures, Elementary and Junior High School classes will shift to online (synchronous) tomorrow, Jan.8.



✍️: Rich Longakit/ The LANCE

ADVISORY

Due to road closures for the Feast of the Black Nazarene, Elementary and Junior High School classes will be held online (synchronous) tomorrow, Wednesday, January 8, 2025.

The offices will remain open.

Please be guided, Letranites. Arriba!

ADVISORY | Malacañang has declared Thursday, Jan. 9, a special non-working day  in Manila under Proclamation No. 766 to ...
04/01/2025

ADVISORY | Malacañang has declared Thursday, Jan. 9, a special non-working day in Manila under Proclamation No. 766 to mark the Feast of the Black Nazarene. Following this announcement, Colegio de San Juan de Letran confirmed the suspension of all classes in its Elementary and Junior High School Departments, covering both synchronous and asynchronous sessions. Work operations at the campus will also be halted for the day.



Source: Colegio De San Juan De Letran
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/15hxgqq9w4/

✍️: Rich Longakit /The LANCE

As the year comes to a close, we look forward to new beginnings and fresh opportunities. Here’s to welcoming the New Yea...
01/01/2025

As the year comes to a close, we look forward to new beginnings and fresh opportunities. Here’s to welcoming the New Year with hope, gratitude, and determination. May this year bring growth, happiness, and success to all of us! Happy New Year!



✍️: Rich Longakit /The LANCE
🖌️: Justin Hernandez /The LANCE

Today, we honor Dr. Jose Rizal, a hero whose courage and wisdom continue to inspire us. May his legacy remind us of the ...
30/12/2024

Today, we honor Dr. Jose Rizal, a hero whose courage and wisdom continue to inspire us. May his legacy remind us of the importance of love for our country and the fight for justice and freedom. Let us strive to embody his ideals in our own ways.



✍️: Rich Longakit /The LANCE
🖌️: Joaquin Ivan Amor /The LANCE

Christmas is a time to celebrate love, joy, and the spirit of giving. As we gather with our loved ones, may we be remind...
25/12/2024

Christmas is a time to celebrate love, joy, and the spirit of giving. As we gather with our loved ones, may we be reminded of the hope and light this season brings. Wishing everyone a meaningful and joyful Christmas filled with warmth and togetherness.



✍️: Rich Longakit /The LANCE
🖌️: Joaquin Ivan Amor /The LANCE

FEATURES | Last Monday, Dec. 16, 2024 at the St. Thomas Grounds of Colegio de San Juan de Letran-Manila, Paskong Arriba ...
22/12/2024

FEATURES | Last Monday, Dec. 16, 2024 at the St. Thomas Grounds of Colegio de San Juan de Letran-Manila, Paskong Arriba united students, alumni, and outsiders in a night of music and tradition. From heartfelt performances to shared memories, this year's concert truly captured the spirit of Christmas.

Read more: https://thelance.letran.edu.ph/Home/ReadMore/5174



✍️: Nicole Llanderal & Kathlean Pallorina /The LANCE
📷: William Tulagan /The LANCE

As the holiday season approaches, The LANCE will be taking a short break starting December 20, 2024. While we're away, p...
20/12/2024

As the holiday season approaches, The LANCE will be taking a short break starting December 20, 2024. While we're away, pre-scheduled content will continue to be posted to keep you updated. Regular postings will resume on January 3, 2025. Wishing everyone a joyous and meaningful holiday season—see you in the new year!

✍️: Rich Longakit /The LANCE
🖌️: Eah Dino /The LANCE

ANNOUNCEMENT | The Colegio has announced its Christmas break schedule, which will run from December 17, 2024, to January...
19/12/2024

ANNOUNCEMENT | The Colegio has announced its Christmas break schedule, which will run from December 17, 2024, to January 3, 2025. Office operations and face-to-face classes for Elementary and Junior High School will resume on January 6, 2025, with Graduate School classes restarting on January 11, and Senior High School and Collegiate classes on January 13.



Source: Colegio De San Juan De Letran

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/xCpF6C4ZDhx9sTqT/?mibextid=wwXIfr

✍️: Rich Longakit /The LANCE

THE LENS | Highlights from Paskong Arriba — a night of music and holiday cheer at the Letran campus, featuring performan...
18/12/2024

THE LENS | Highlights from Paskong Arriba — a night of music and holiday cheer at the Letran campus, featuring performances by The Itchyworms, SUD, The Ridleys, Penumbra, and Syd Hartha.

📷: William Tulagan /The LANCE

THE LENS | Moments from the Letran community's Christmas celebration: A solemn mass and a festive gathering for faculty ...
17/12/2024

THE LENS | Moments from the Letran community's Christmas celebration: A solemn mass and a festive gathering for faculty and staff at Salón de Actos, marking the season with unity and cheer.

📷: Julia Iris Eguilliano /The LANCE

Address

Third Floor, San Alberto Magno Bldg. , 151 Muralla Street, Intramuros
Manila

Opening Hours

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Tuesday 7am - 7pm
Wednesday 7am - 7pm
Thursday 7am - 7pm
Friday 7am - 7pm
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The LANCE in retrospect

The LANCE Editorial Board AY 2020 - 2021: Editor-in-Chief: Meilinda Marie Malacat Associate Editor: Chantal Macaraeg Managing Editor: Melody Jade Soriano News Editor: Roni Mae Serrano Features Editor: Justin Santelices Sports Editor: Maria Sofia Dimaculangan Photo Editor: Patrick Dominick Romero Design Editor: Eldrick Nolasco ______________________________________ This is not your ordinary history. It is not a story where facts are enumerated and datelines are significant. Looking back at the years of the official student publication of Colegio de San Juan de Letran would reveal not only what happened, but how Letranites acted upon these situations This story will prove why The LANCE is worthy of its name. Four years after martial law banned student publications, The LANCE was born with the sheer passion to be the voice of the students. In September 1976, the first issue was released defining the name of the publication as a symbol of Letran’s spirit of sportsmanship, kindred-spiritedness and chivalry. It also posed the challenge not only to its writers but to the student body as well. An excerpt from the first LANCE editorial by its editor-in-chief, Ramon A. Aliño states that: “…the success of this publication rests on the students, singly and collectively since the LANCE’s aim is not only to record events but also to poke the students out of their shell… Its continued survival depends on what you contribute to the paper, not what it can do for you. Indeed, a worthy challenge.” It is in pursuit of truth and justice that kept the fire burning in the hearts and hands of staffers. Nothing could be compromised. In the time of Retro The 70’s were not a merry season for the press. This period of supposedly colors and music was dimmed by the suppression of freedom of expression. However, with fresh belief in the newly established form of government—still with hope— LANCE staffers opted not to contradict the government but educate the students about new decrees and laws. A section in the opinion page was devoted to chronicling political changes so that the readers may understand these. Aside from straight news and opinions, the pages of The LANCE were also filled with artful prose and poetry that showcased the creativity of the writers. A co-ed’s corner featured the beautiful faces in school. Staffers also conducted regular interviews with students to know their complaints against and suggestions for the administration. Knowing the pulse of the students gave The LANCE a clearer voice to speak out. In the time of New Wave Gradually, the now infamous “conjugal dictatorship” was revealed, yet more journalists were getting killed. It was during the early 80’s when The LANCE staffers began to fight not only as Letranites, but as vigilant Filipinos as well. Martial law was lifted in 1981 when the charade of press freedom began. Perhaps the biggest relief of this period was when Education Minister Onofre D. Corpuz assured The LANCE of its independence from the school administration or any other authority. Ministry of Education and Culture Order 62 s.1981 stated that “no individual who is not a staff member should define nor determine the contents of the paper.” This gave more fire and courage for the staffers to hold their “lances” and fight with their pens. Though the paper was shut down and subsequently revamped in almost a year, it was published with a January 1983 issue. Instead of the traditional hierarchy, The LANCE decided to compose an editorial board which would decide how the paper should be run. Under the editorial board chairperson Medallon Abrena, The LANCE came back on track. The year 1984 can be characterized as the publication’s boldest period, where libel and death threats did not move the staffers from their stand to fight with the Filipino people. Pages of The LANCE during this year were filled with photos from rallies and stories about the struggle against the dictator. Even the feature pages presented the realities of the streets—how people were being killed and how officials were being manipulated. As LANCE staffers braved the streets, they also inked the pages. Ceferino Basilio, editor-in-chief of The LANCE, wrote in his editorial for the September 1984 issue the paper’s view on the political struggle. “They may put journalists behind bars, torture politicians, close down critic-oriented newspapers but one thing’s for sure, ‘PEOPLE POWER’ will prevail. The LANCE will surely do its share in preserving ideals and aspirations, whatever the price.” Looking up to Marcelo “Plaridel” H. del Pilar—a Letranite who founded the propagandist paper La Solidaridad—the staffers were threatened with a libel suit by a faculty member because they expressed the truth with so much valiance. “This is probably going to be the bleakest Christmas we’ll ever have…we have nothing to blame but Mr. Marcos who has led us into this miserable state,” said News Editor Froilan Castelo in his column “Recollections” in The LANCE’s December 1984 issue. From the 90’s to the present The fire of campus journalism continued to burn as a new decade entered. Because the revolution was over and new presidents took over the country, the right to press freedom has never been used more often. LANCE staffers became watchdogs, not only to the government but to the Colegio as well. Discussing the apathy of Letranites remains to be one of the favorite subjects of editorials. Since the foundation of The LANCE, this has been the goal, to take Letranites out of their shell, and it is only reasonable to take some steps for action. Paolo Jamisola, editor-in-chief of The LANCE in 2002, suggested that students would be satisfied with tuition hikes when they see where their money goes. To students, the meaning of “better education” is better information and communication technology and access to better facilities. Students may have agreed with such observation but apathy was still commonplace. However, The LANCE became their mouthpiece so that sentiments were voiced. Also in 2002, Political Science students moved for a change in grade. The LANCE publicized the event and the quest to break apathy was somehow fulfilled. The LANCE encouraged students to air their complaints and not be fence sitters who were nonchalant about their environment. However, the paper reminded them that by doing so, they must not be fidgety but stand up for what they believe in. Beyond the stories and proficiency in language and grammar, The LANCE through the years has maintained a passion and purpose. The LANCE remains to be the students’ voice and the extension of their mind. This purpose may seem difficult to achieve but in the end the sense of fulfillment will be worth the effort. Someone has to stand up for somebody, and that someone is The LANCE. In the new millennium Thirty years have passed since The LANCE began its mission to be the voice of the students. Still, life in our country has been a continuous struggle against the evils that corrupt the minds of people. Many Letranites are still apathetic about relevant issues that concern them. Problems are similar to what the early breed of writers gave their heart to in search for a solution. The battle is not yet over. Going back to the roots of The LANCE reminds us on what we must set our hearts to, find the passion once more to be the voice of the students, risking anything without compromise. The success of The LANCE still depends on how, together with the student body, make it more than pieces of paper, but priceless convictions inked in every page. All of us have the duty to keep the might of the sword and pen alive as we write new chapters of history. An article written by Lutchie Anne Coral