DLSP delegates attend 2008 Energy Summit

Three delegates from De La Salle Philippines (DLSP) are expected to make a report on assessing the energy conservation and efficient utilization of energy for the 18 La Salle schools, after learning insights on the 2008 Philippine Energy Summit. Dubbed as $100/barrel, Crisis or Opportunity?, the convention was sponsored by Department of Energy (DOE) held at SMX Convention Center - Mall of Asia from 29 to 31 January 2008 and 5 February 2008.

The DOE, in cooperation with Asian Development Bank (ADB) and World Bank, invited representatives from multi-sectoral groups (oil industry, consumer, industry, transport, and labor sectors). They were given the opportunity to air their concerns and recommended their solutions on policies, laws, and action plans.

Butch Evarola and Paul Darwynn Garilao of Corporate and Communications Services Team and Nonoi Maralit of Education and Research Services Team, together with other representatives, participated in plenary sessions that tackled global and national concerns.

Aside from the plenary sessions, workshops were also prepared for participants to discuss energy-related issues. Participants were asked to share their insights through focused group discussions and to draft their recommendations, which will be used by DOE and experts to make the appropriate action plans.

The DLSP delegates attended workshops on Promoting Renewable Energy: Regulatory Framework and Policy Direction and Market and Financial Barriers, as well as Setting Success Indicators and Mechanics for Monitoring Cross-Sectoral Interventions. They considered these topics relevant in reviewing energy-related concerns across the network. DLSP will also form an ad hoc committee on energy as tasked by DLSP President Br. Armin Luistro FSC.

DOE Sec. Angelo Reyes stressed that the Summit is structured as a listening post and venue for collaborative discussion. “Instead of dwelling on issues that divide, I choose on causes that unite”, he added.

On the last day of the convention (5 February), DOE will present the outcome of the discussions will be presented to President Arroyo.

SPECIAL REPORT:
“Invest in people and R &D” – Dr. Alvin Culaba, DLSU-M University fellow

“We are not lacking in talent. If only we invest in people and Research and Development (R&D), then we can make a difference,” Dr. Alvin Culaba, a University fellow at De La Salle University – Manila emphasized during the second day of the summit.

Dr. Culaba was invited as one of the panel of experts for the workshop Promoting Renewable Energy: Regulatory Framework and Policy Direction. (Dr. Culaba is also the director of Center for Engineering and Sustainable Development Research).

R&D plays a vital role in choosing the best alternative energy for the country, Dr. Culaba emphasized. He believes that the government has overlooked the research arm for a long time. During the focused group discussions, most participants agreed to Dr. Culaba's observation and suggested that DOE should intensify its R&D programs.

Believing that the country is not lacking in manpower, Dr. Culaba cited the success of Sinag, the first Philippine Solar Car that placed 12th in 2007 Panasonic World Solar Challenge. The solar car was designed and fabricated by students and faculty of DLSU-Manila in cooperation with some companies. Unlike other solar cars which were built for two years, Sinag was only formed within 10 months.

Dr. Culaba explains the alternative energies used by the academe.

Micro-hydro project, a program that he also highlighted, was conceptualized by Mechanical Engineering students 15 years ago. Now, hundreds of residents from Abra are benefiting from the project.

As a consultant of DOE, he hopes that the department will invest in research and tap the potentials of experts, who are passionate in addressing this major issue.

For other information and insights about the Summit, you may visit the following links:

1. Four-day energy Summit opens Jan. 29

2. DOE geared up for Energy Summit

3. Militants picket energy summit , brand it "costly show"

4. The Energy Summit by Ronny Diaz

5. Energy Summit starts

Some interesting websites related to energy:

1. Energy crisis

2. World Future Energy Summit

3. Ethanol

4. Biodiesel fuel

Photo and video footages by Paul Garilao, DLSP Media Bureau Correspondent

Br. Andrew Gonzalez: A man with a vision

Celine Hernandez, DLSP Media Bureau Student Correspondent

What he visualized, he actualized. Br. Andrew Gonzalez FSC deeply moved the society, especially the youth, through his contributions to the Philippine education.

Br. Andrew, who passed 29 January 2006, served as President of De La Salle University -Manila from 1979 to 1991 and from 1994 to 1998.

Born in 29 Febuary 1940, Macario Diosdado Arnedo Gonzalez - his real name - was the son of a wealthy businessman, Augusto Gonzales and Rosario Arnedo, daughter of then Pampanga-governor.

Bro. Andrew, as he is called after he joined the De La Salle Brothers in 1955, was responsible for conceptualizing the now-defunct De La Salle System of teaching Lasallian students. (The System is now replaced by the De La Salle Philippines that networks 18 La Salle schools throughout the country).

The College of Saint Benilde came about from Bro Andrew’s concept of specializing in specific careers. He then helped to establish the De La Salle University- Dasmarinas and the De La Salle Health Sciences Institute.

Appointed as DECS Secretary from 1998 to 2001, he slowly tried to get rid of the corruption in the system by thoroughly making sure that the textbooks and other materials acquired by the department are well accounted for. “Thousands of classrooms were built to meet the increasing student population. He commenced the changing of the language of instruction to the regional language for the first three grades,” Alejandro Camilling wrote for the famous Kapampangans.

After serving the government, Br. Andrew devoted his time in helping the DLSU-M as a Vice president for Academics and Research from 2001 to 2003 and Presidential Adviser for Academics and Research from 2003 to 2005.

In his lifetime, he was the educator everyone looked up to not only for his exceptional intelligence but also for his sensible managing abilities.

Br. Andrew Gonzalez Hall FSC, the newest building of DLSU-M and the country's tallest educational institution, proudly stands for the man it represents.

Though he joined the creator two years ago, the Lasallian community still has a vivid image of this visionary. He was a servant for all, and a teacher who remains an inspiration.

Testimonials for Br. Andrew

“The idea that there should be support and prioritization for scholarship is a very important statement the University can make and we have to thank Br. Andrew for articulating that in a very emphatic way – without negating the other roles of university like teaching.”

Dr. Allan Bernardo, DLSU-M University fellow

“In one particular oratorical contest, Br. Andrew had me practice in the old school gym after supper. He would be at the entrance while I was up on stage at the other end of the floor, an entire basketball court separating us. There he would engage me in a conversation to help me project my voice. And he did this nightly for almost two weeks. Looking back, I believe that was the beginning of my vocation as a “public speaker” and the discovery of my voice as a “instrument for good” in teaching individuals and facilitating groups.”

Br. Ceci Hojilla FSC, Lasallian Brother

“A man, like Br. Andrew Gonzales, comes only once in a lifetime. He was a well-respected towering figure in the Philippine academe, a man for all seasons, and truly a quintessential man: an accomplished and seasoned educator, a brilliant and multi-talented professor, an academe specialist, a versatile school innovator, and a pragmatic, forward looking administrator.”

Dr. Florentino Timbreza, DLSU-M University Fellow

For more information about Br. Andrew, you may visit the following websites:

1.Biographies of Famous Kapampangan.

2.Manila Bulletin article

Some resources were taken from The La Sallian February 2006 special issue.

Lasallian Community extends support to Sumilao farmers

Christopher Alcantara, DLSP Media Bureau Correspondent

The Lasallian Community's support to Sumilao farmers didn't just stop from accommodating them last week. Wadel Cabrera III, Institutional Advocacy Coordinator of the De La Salle University – Manila (DLSU-M) Center for Social Concern and Action (COSCA), met the Sumilao farmers last 24 January 2008 at Asilo de San Vicente de Paul in UN Avenue to get updates regarding their case against San Miguel Foods, Incorporated (SMFI).

It may be recalled that 12 farmers from Bukidnon returned to Manila after the revocation order issued by the President, through Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita last 18 December 2007, was delayed. This issuance also did not include an order for SMFI to cease its hog shelter construction in the area.

According to Cabrera, the Sumilao farmers continue their fight for two main reasons. The first is that the land acquired by SMFI was in bad faith, and the on-going construction of a piggery in the said area is considered "illegal". Another reason is an SMFI advertisement that discredited the cause of the farmers. The SMFI had submitted to a newspaper broadsheet last 26 December 2007.

The farmers resorted to a tour of schools and parishes around the Metro to gain additional support for their case. DLSU-M and De La Salle - College of St. Benilde accommodated the farmers last 18 and 19 January.

There are various initiatives and programs by which La Salle schools could extend their support to the Sumilao farmers. Cabrera urged the community to take on the following measures:

1. Continue to explain the case to others in the community, especially those who have influence or authority, highlighting it as a violation of social justice.
2. Make the issue a matter of discussion for students. Such efforts will encourage students to be critically aware of socio-political issues.
3. Consider the moral dimension of the issue by encouraging awareness and involvement from La Salle schools. This will help future entrepreneurs and corporate tycoons to mold their moral standards when addressing similar issues.
4. Encourage relatives of San Miguel stakeholders enrolled in La Salle schools to support the just cause of the Sumilao farmers.
5. Maximize the signature drive launched by the Sumilao farmers.

Cabrera encourages the Lasallian community to exercise vigilance regarding the issue. “What is the price of constructing blocks of development when it is at the expense of injustice against ordinary people?”, he asked, similar to the question SALFA President Napoleon “Yoyong” Merida, Jr. had posed to the students and personnel a week ago.

The 12 farmers will continue their school tours in Manila, stopping over at Santa Isabel College and University of Sto. Tomas later this week. “Until their simple demands are realized, their fight for justice will not cease,” Cabrera furthered. He is hopeful that the case will arrive at a favorable decision soon.

For more information and updates, you can visit the multiply site of Simbahang Lingkod ng Bayan

Photo by Francis Garucho, DLSP Media Bureau Student Correspondent

La Salle student journalists compete in 19th Campus Journalism Awards (2nd update)

Campus journalists from different La Salle schools participated in the 19th Campus Journalism Awards (CJA) with the theme Renewing the World through a Culture of Peace. The competitions were held at the 9th floor of Br. Andrew Gonzales FSC Hall last 26 January 2008.

Green and White (G&W), the official student year book of De La Salle University-Manila (DLSU-M) and sponsor of CJA, said that the theme was in line with DLSU-Manila's effort to promote peace. The University is partnered with International Peace Foundation, an organization that has been promoting the Bridges: Dialogue towards a Culture of Peace through inviting Nobel Laureate speakers in schools.

The G&W used a creative format for the contest. For the editorial writing category, the participants watched the film Kingdom of Heaven and related the film's message in their articles. For the sports writing, the contestants were required to write an article about the following subjects: American football game (with statistics), a boxing game, and a press conference where in a fencing player exposed how he was cheated in a certain game.

Student Journalists from five La Salle schools in Luzon competed for different categories. They belong from different publications:

• DLSU-M - Ang Pahayagang Plaridel, Malate Literary Folio, and The La Sallian
  
• De La Salle - College of St. Benilde - The Benildean
  
• De La Salle University – Dasmariñas (DLS-D) - Heraldo Filipino and Vicissitude
  
• De La Salle Lipa (DLSL) - Lavoxa, L Magazine, and Umalohokan
  
• De La Salle Araneta University (DLSAU) - Tinig
  

DLSL students topped the competition with eight awards, followed by DLSU-M and DLS-D students with both seven awards. (See the winners below).

SPO Director Fritzie de Vera awards the campus journalists.

Here are the winners for the 19th CJA:

1. News Reporting (English)

Julianne Maverick Juan (1) - Heraldo Filipino
Mihaela Hinayon (2) - L Magazine
June Ann Ong (3) - Tinig

2. News Reporting (Filipino)

Williebeth Adajar (1) - Umalohokan
Regina Dalusung (2) - Tinig
Marestan Palma (3) - Ang Pahayagang Plaridel

3. News Writing (English)

Jade Cuatro (1) - Umalohokan
Rudney Manalo (2) - Umalohokan
Adrian Joseph Garcia (3) - Ang Pahayagang Plaridel

4. News Writing (Filipino)

Rizza Mendoza (1) - Heraldo Filipino
Regilin Hernandez (2) - Heraldo Filipino
Jinky Pascua (3) - Vicissitude

4. Feature Writing (English)

Franz Joel Lib-on (1) - Ang Pahayagang Plaridel
Ruth Ravina (1) - Tinig
Mihaela Hinayon (2) - L Magazine
Jamille Regis (3) - The Benildean

5. Features Writing (Filipino)

Rhalain Pipo (3) - Ang Pahayagang Plaridel

6. Editorial Writing (English)

Stanley Russel Geronimo (1) - Malate Literary Folio
Alex Dimasacat (2) - Lavoxa Broadsheet
Rap Sta. Cruz (3) - The Benildean

7. Editorial Writing (Filipino)

Juan Carlos Garcia (1) - Ang Pahayagang Plaridel
Krist Trizha Mendoza (2) - Ang Pahayagang Plaridel
Martin Antonio Frias (3) - The Benildean

8. Sports Writing (English)

Luis Olitoquit (1) - Heraldo Filipino
Jovan Jotojot (2) - The Benildean
Triza Kaye Tanggalin (3) - Lavoxa Broadsheer

9. Photo Journalism

Andrew Tadalan (1) - Heraldo Filipino
Karla Peralta (2) - The La Sallian
Dennis Israel Nantes (3) - Lavoxa Broadsheet

10. Editorial Cartooning

Kirk Tefora (1) - The Benildean
Linane Lou Pineda (2) - The Benildean
Vicbert Maceda (3) - Heraldo Filipino

The judges were former student editors of DLSU-M publications, faculty, and coordinators from DLSU-M Student Publication Office (SPO).

CJA recognizes the "talents, skills, and potentials of future journalists. It is devoted to providing a venue for healthy competition among its participants, which in turn will create a positive impact to the quality of Lasallian school news papers and journalists.”

The campus journalists will again gather for the annual Lasallian Press Conference that will be held at University of St. La Salle in Bacolod City come 3 to 5 May 2008.

For more information about CJA you may visit http://www.cja.greenandwhite.org.ph .

With reports from Elinor Malicdem, Green & White 2008 Managing Editor and Alex Dimasacat, Lavoxa Broadsheet EIC.

Philippine Union of Lasallian Student Organizations (PULSO) launched

by Jose Emmanuel Ramos,
DLSP Media Bureau Correspondent

Dasmariñas, Cavite - The Philippine Union of Lasallian Student Organizations (PULSO) was formally launched during the 1st Lasallian Convention of Student Organizations attended by representatives from the Council of Student Organizations (CSO) of five La Salle Schools at the Severino De Las Alas Auditorium at De La Salle University-Dasmariñas on 25 January 2008.

With the theme Lasallian Leadership Excellence Aiming for Development (Lasallian LEAD), the convention was attended by more than 200 students from De La Salle - College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB), De La Salle Lipa (DLSL), De La Salle Canlubang (DLSC), De La Salle University-Manila (DLSU-M), and De La Salle University-Dasmariñas (DLSU-D), the host school . RockEd Philippines Founder and Executive Director Gang Badoy gave a talk on Youth Social Responsibility in Nation, which was followed by an open forum.

The event marks the official launching of the Philippine Union of Lasallian Student Organizations (PULSO). “One of my personal dreams when we started De La Salle Philippines was that at some stage, there will be a nationwide association of all student and youth groups”, quipped Br. Armin Luistro FSC, De La Salle Philippines (DLSP) President, during his speech. PULSO, a student-initiated and led organization, envisions itself to be an agent in realizing the Philippine Lasallian Mission of One La Salle.

Br. Armin has expressed his enthusiasm that relying on the initiative of the student leaders themselves, without much prompting, PULSO was born.

Kamalayan 2007: Economy, Environment, Education

Christopher Alcantara and John Bellosillo,

Media Bureau Student Correspondents

An assessment of socio-political issues that rocked the nation last year became the center of this month's Kapihan ng mga Malalayang Lasalyano (Kamalayan), which the Center for Social Concern and Action (COSCA) and the De La Salle University-Manila (DLSU-M) Student Council sponsored. Three keynote speakers shared their insights on economic development, environmental issues, and the Philippine educational system in the forum held on 24 January 2008 at the Yuchengco Hall Ground Floor.

Economy

JP Rivera, a magna cum laude graduate of DLSU-Manila, touched on the problems of the Philippine economy. He said that even though the country's stocks show favorable results, Filipinos still don't feel the improvements as growing inflation rate continues to hound the market.

One factor that should be considered was last year’s employment rate. Rivera said that although jobs were generated, the migration of professionals and skilled laborers will significantly affect the economy in the long run. His assessment also views corruption as the main culprit that stunted the country's growth in 2007. He, however, has high hopes that the upcoming national elections will rally responsible and conscientious voters in favor of genuine economic development.

Environment

An active volunteer of the One Million Tress in 2011 and Beyond (OMTB), Jorge Buenaventura shared his thoughts about the environment. A staunch advocate of the Lasallian Institute for the Environment (LIFE), Buenaventura expressed the urgency of environmental awareness and involvement in efforts to save what's left of our depleting resources. He stressed that the Philippine environment is in bad shape and called for sustainable programs that must be initiated to rectify the situation. He also mentioned four key areas to gauge the environmental situation:

1). Forestry. If deforestation continues, we would only have 6.6% of our forests by the year 2010.

2) Air. High concentration of air pollution is prevalent in the country's major cities. This is primarily attributed to automobile emissions.

3) Water. Certain cities south of the metro have contaminated water due to improper waste disposal. Concerns like the Guimaras oil spill should also be of primary concern.

4) Solid Waste Management. Proper disposal and segregation of solid waste should be further implemented.

He challenged the Lasallian community to play an active part in preserving the environment by participating in programs that promote its welfare. One of which is the OMTB campaign of De La Salle Philippines, which was launched in September 2006. The goal is to be able to plant one million trees by 2011, the centenary of Lasallian presence in the Philippines.

Jorge Bueneventura encourages Lasallians to participate in environmental concerns

Bueneventura also noted that De La Salle University – Dasmariñas and De La Salle Lipa have intensified their efforts for solid waste management, and shared that other La Salle schools are initiating more programs and advocacies for the environment. Buenaventura hopes for the continued involvement of Lasallians, as well as strengthened collaborations with the local communities towards the achievement of their environmental objectives.

Education

For an assessment of the Philippine educational system in 2007, Anil Ratanchandani, College Assembly President of the College of Education, stated that government and academic institutions should focus on the root causes of the problems of the system.

Ratanchandani said that the expenses for educational programs, which would supposedly improve Philippine education, outweigh the direct benefits. He suggested to form a committee that would check the system.

Wrapping up the discussions, Wadel Cabrera III, Institutional Advocacy Coordinator of COSCA, urged the Lasallian community to be vigilant and to maintain a critical eye for relevant social and political issues.

(Photos and interview Footage by Francis Garrucho, DLSP Media Bureau Student Correspondent)

La Salle schools celebrate Catholic Teachers' Day (3rd Update)

Even after the celebration of Catholic Teachers' Day last 26 January 2008, La Salle schools across the nation are still giving tribute to teachers who have made a difference in their lives.

A portion of the De La Salle Philippines (DLSP) website has been dedicated to online greetings and public testimonies for the teachers. Students are invited to post a letter for at least one teacher or mentor who has influenced them. This service, open to all Lasallians can be accessed at http://delasalle.ph/myteacher starting 23 January. Private letters submitted through the site will be delivered by DLSP, its distinct way of thanking the Lasallian educators.

As of today, there are more than 500 replies in the DLSP website, mostly coming from students of La Salle University in Ozamis City.

Here are the activities of schools across the network:

Switch of job functions and a treat at La Salle College Antipolo (LSCA)

Selected students were given the opportunity to take the role of their teachers last 24 January at La Salle College Antipolo (LSCA). RJ Miranda, Student Council (SC) officer from LSCA, said the student affairs body organized a contribution fund and treated the teachers this 25 January from the high school and college levels.

Lasallian Partners Day in De La Salle Santiago Zobel School (DLSZ)

The DLSZ Student Council reserved 25 January in the school calendar to hold their own celebration dubbed as Lasallian Partners Day. The first 30 minutes of the day was dedicated to a tribute to class advisers. Students from grade four to 4th year high school also took over one period for all of the teachers to gain firsthand experience in teaching. Games and other activities in the afternoon - sponsored by the Student Council - include ultimate frisbee, water polo, water relays, and ballroom dancing will allow the students and teachers to spend time and bond outside the confines of the classroom.

For more information, visit DLSZ website.

A poem recital at DLS Andres Soriano Memorial College (ASMC)

Dr. Erlinda Desierto, principal of the High School Department of DLS-ASMC in Cebu, said the department had an earlier celebration last 17 January. Unleashing their creativity, students composed poems, gave tokens and cards to teachers and personnel. After a mass dedicated for the teachers, chosen students recited the poems they composed.

Bowling activity near La Salle Green Hills (LSGH)

LSGH Grade School coordinator for Student Affairs Menchie Iniola said that after a short activity on 25 January, the students treated their teachers to a bowling game.

A mass for teachers at De La Salle University - Dasmariñas (DLSU-D)

Aside from the mass dedicated in memory of Br. Andrew Gonzales FSC, DLSU Dasmariñas held a mass for teachers this 26 January.

Free green shirts from De La Salle Lipa (DLSL)

De La Salle Lipa set the Teachers' Day Celebration from 26 to 31 January. According to Pamla Sala, the teachers will be given green shirts with statement "I am a Lasallian Educator" in front and "Education is my vocation" at the back.

A mass and a dating game (for singles only) will also be organized. Winners will be treated in a dinner date. During the game, there will be masseurs, manicurists, and barbers at our office where everyone can avail them for free.

Recreational activity at La Salle University (Ozamis City)

After the morning mass to grace their Teachers’ Day, alternative classes held 25 January were facilitated by students and some invited speakers. Students treated the teachers have been treated to a 2-hour recreation program in the afternoon, which included sports challenges and film viewing.

The day ended with some production numbers from the Su Thetro Guindegan, DELTHEA, Daninao Dance Company, the La Salle Ballet and Jazz Ensemble, and a message from one of the teachers, 2007 Chimes Awardee Laura Guangco.

Other La Salle schools also prepared special activities for the teachers. There are 8,458 teachers in all 18 La Salle schools. Brothers, Sisters, priests, and lay people comprised the teaching community.


SPECIAL FEATURE

Some Lasallian teachers who belong in the roster of
Metrobank Outstanding Teachers and CHIMES

1. Dr. Tereso Tullao (1993 Metrobank Outstanding Teacher Awardee )

Dr. Tereso Tullao is a University fellow and a full time professor of DLSU-Manila College of Business and Economics (CBE). As a favorite teacher in Economics and business related subjects, he used to giving his lectures in Filipino.

In 1993, he was hailed as a 1993 Metrobank Outstanding Teacher (Higher Education Category.)

2. Dr. Manuel Belino (2005 Metrobank Outstanding Teacher Awardee)

Dr. Manuel Belino is a former chairman of Mechanical Engineering (MEE) Department of DLSU-Manila. He was 2006 Metro Bank Outstanding Teacher (Higher Education Category). Though still teaching in a part time basis at DLSU-Manila, Dr. Belino serves as the dean of MEE College of Mapua Institute of Technology. This is his message:

"I believe my contribution to nation-building is the unique combination of my academic degrees - mechanical engineering and theological studies, which enables me to strike a balance between technology and human values in engineering education. Integrating ethics into the technical courses I teach such as materials engineering, safety engineering and mechanical systems would hopefully prepare engineering students to become technically competent and ethically responsible engineers. Eventually, these holistic engineers design and create technologies that are most beneficial to human beings and the environment."

Other Metrobank Awardees

1991
Dr. Marcelino Foronda (History)

1994
Dr. Wyona Patalinghug (Chemistry)


Dr. Ma. Cecila Nava(Humanities)

1999
Dr. Marie Marjorie Evasco-Pernia (Poetry)

2000
Dr. Rose Marie Salazar (Counseling Psychology)

3. Laura Guangco (2007 CHIMES Awardee - Teacher Category)

Co-teachers perceived her as a workaholic and a perfectionist teacher. The Outstanding Faculty and 2007 CHIMES awardee Laura Guangco is one of the most honored teachers at La Salle University, Ozamiz City not only because of her academic contributions but also for her selfless service to her community.

In one of her community involvements, she and other volunteers trekked an orphanage despite the outpouring of rain and presence of flood. In fighting for the rights of her friends, she has exemplified social justice with her involvement in denouncing of Expanded Value Added Tax (E-VAT) and the increased power cost of the local electric cooperative in Ozamiz.

Guangco has been teaching since 1969. She is currently working as Institutional Planning and Evaluation Director of La Salle University. As the 2007 CHIMES awardee, she immortalizes her as one of the servant-educators who is known for helping and guiding her community without asking anything in return.

The Lorenzo M. Tanada CHIMES Awards is an annual event that seeks to recognize outstanding Lasallians who embody the values of Common good, Honesty, Integrity, Meritocracy, and Excellence in service to the mission of St. John Baptist De La Salle. The awards are given to a student, faculty, co-academic personnel, alumnus, or administrator who lives and selflessly serves others and ensuring values that influence teamwork, innovation, competence in their community.

With reports from:

Jonie Solon, DLSP Media Bureau Student Correspondent
Celine Hernandez, DLSP Media Bureau Correspondent
Menchie Iniola, Grade school coordinator for Student Affairs (LSGH)
RJ Miranda, Student Council Officer (DLS Anipolo)
Dr. Erlinda Desierto, Principal of High School Department (DLS ASMC)
Jamina Munasque, SRCC President (DLS Zobel)

Graphics by Alice Espinosa, DLSP Media Bureau Graphic Artist
Video by Celine Hernandez, DLSP Media Bureau Student Correspondent

De La Salle Canlubang holds concert for scholarship drive

Biñan, Laguna – It all happened in one night. Highlighting the start of the Family Week celebrations at De La Salle Canlubang (DLSC) last 18 January 2008, was Kundirana Concert 2008 coinciding with the official launch of the One La Salle Scholarship Fund Campaign.

Kundirana, an all-male singing group from La Salle Green Hills, serenaded the crowd (composed of students, teachers, support staff members, alumni, administrators, Brothers, and friends from the 10 Lasallian Institutional Gift for Adopted Pupils or LINGAP partner public schools) with song and dance numbers. Koro Lasalyano did the front act with a rendition of Michael Jackson’s “Man in the Mirror.”

Also enjoying the night were Brs. Gus Boquer FSC, Felipe Belleza FSC, and Mario Dacanay FSC. Mrs. Marivic Mercado, De La Salle Philippines (DLSP) Development Officer, Mr. Noel Generoso, DLSC Parent-representative to DLSP, and Dr. Estrellita Castañeda, DLSC volunteer for the LINGAP Project were also spotted in the crowd.

As a network-wide drive coordinated by DLSP, the One La Salle Scholarship Endowment Fund targets “to raise a billion pesos by the year 2011 to support full scholarships for students from marginalized sectors to comprise at least 20% of the population of all 18 De La Salle schools in the Philippines.”

DLSC’s Family Week celebrations will run until 26 January 2008. For more information about their celebrations you may access www.canlubang.dlsu.edu.ph

Related news:

Kundirana Concert

With reports from Christopher Polanco, Development, Information and Special Projects Officer – DLSC Office of the President

Photo taken from www.canlubang.dlsu.edu.ph

Lasallian community supports Sumilao farmers

By Chis Alcantara and Paul Garilao, Media Bureau Correspondents

12 Sumilao farmers, who marched from Bukidnon to Manila late last year, were accommodated by the Lasallian community in DLSU-Manila last 18 and 19 January 2008. The community provided them food and shelter.

It may be recalled that 55 Sumilao farmers marched 1,700 kilometers to claim the 144-hectare land, which they contested to own. But dismayed with the government’s response, 12 of these farmers returned to Manila again.

The farmers were given the opportunity to share their concerns to students during the activities at DLSU-Manila. They toured to selected National Services Training Program (NSTP) classes and asked for the community's support. Beefing up the discussions, DLSP President Br. Armin Luistro FSC accompanied them and explained the implications of the issue.

“Kahit kalian hindi namin hiningi ang ibang lupa, gusto lang namin ay ibalik ang sa’min,” [We never asked for other lands, we just want them to return our own land] Napoleon “Yoyong” Merida Jr. shared. With the incessant delays in government processes, Yoyong - president of one of the farmers' federation - furthered the country’s justice system only seemed to protect the interests of the capitalists.

A female Sumilao farmer shared her sentiments about the issue:

The farmers were also invited to talk at the Business and Economics Convention for Students held at the Yuchengco Auditorium. Mang Peter appealed to the audience who came from different schools in Manila. “Kung walang isasagot ang presidente (GMA), samahan ninyo kami na muling kausapin ang presidente [If the president will not respond, please join us to talk to the president]," Mang Peter requested.

The farmers left the campus around 4:30 pm and marched to Malate Church to conduct a prayer vigil there.

Citizen journalists’ take:

1. A Multiply user Jolo Tamayo shared his experience with the Sumilao farmers. He said, “We, the students, were enlightened about the pros and cons of the issue, especially when Br. Armin told us the reality behind the protest.”

2. The following were taken by a photo journalist during the Sumilao farmers' visit at San Beda College last 17 December 2007.

Related stories:

1. Disappointed Sumilao farmers back in Manila.

2. Palace puts Sumilao farmers on hold.

3. DAR chief assures quick resolution of the Sumilao case.

You tube videos:

1. The Sumilao farmers entry to Naga City on November 17 2008

2. Sumilao farmers crossed San Juanico Bridge.

3. Farmers march to Surigao del Norte.

(Photo and videos were taken by Francis Garucho, DLSP Media Bureau student correspondent)

Br. Armin calls for a "morally upright government" during Inter-faith gathering

By Paul Darwynn Garilao, DLSP Media Bureau correspondent

As the nation commemorates EDSA II, members of various religious and civil society groups organized an inter-faith gathering to condemn the Arroyo Administration held at La Salle Green Hills (LSGH) last 18 January 2008.

In his keynote address, De La Salle Philippines President Br. Armin Luistro FSC called for a morally upright government. “Part of what we see now is a government that is morally bankrupt,” as it is involved in allegations of rampant corruption and other anomalous transactions.

Br. Armin also stressed that “economic gains cannot be used as a means of the government to continuously reign. It is easy to manipulate [economic] statistics for illegal means." Instead, a government must be moral, upright, and truthful.

Select representatives read the group's collective thoughts contained in a document dubbed as “7 Years is Enough". The group declared: “Corruption has become more blatant at the highest level...GMA may claim that there are many factors that contribute to these problems. That is also true. But she is still the single, biggest factor, especially as she has illegally expanded and, more so abused, the powers of the presidency.”

Prominent people such as Former Secretary Atty. Josefina Lichauco and Business Editor Vergel Santos also shared their sentiments.

From LSGH, some 800 protesters marched to EDSA Shrine, the site of two People Power revolutions. Since police officers barred them  from approaching the base of the Shrine, they just lit candles and sang nationalistic songs in front of the barricade and fire trucks. 

Among those who participated in the protest were former Vice President Teofisto Guingona, Bayan Muna (People First) Representative Satur Ocampo, Gabriela Representative Liza Maza, and former DSWD Secretary Dinky Soliman. Members of the Black and White Movement, Union of the Masses for Democracy and Justice, Bayan Muna, and Bagong Alyansang Makabayan also took part in the assembly. The participants also gathered in an inter-faith rally at the Bay Walk in Malate, Manila last 14 December 2007.


(Photos were contributed by DLSU-Manila Student Council President Noey Arcinue)

Related stories:

Cops bar anti-Arroyo protesters from EDSA shrine (Inquirer.net)

Inter-Faith Gathering at Bay Walk

An Inter-Faith gathering was held at Bay Walk in Malate, Manila last 14 December 2007 to “reject a morally bankrupt government.” Different groups from schools, churches, militant activists, and the Muslim community attended the said rally. On January 18, the groups will again gather for another Inter-Faith gathering.

Here are some photos taken by Paul Darwynn Garilao, DLSP Media Bureau correspondent:

Inter-Faith Gathering at La Salle Green Hills on 18 January 2008

Inter-Faith Gathering at La Salle Green Hills on 18 January 2008

11 January 2008

To All Members of the Philippine Lasallian Family:

Greetings of PEACE!

Thank you very much for joining us in the last Inter-faith Assembly held on 14 December 2007 at the Baywalk in Malate, Manila. For those of us who were present, we really felt the spirit of unity among the 700 warm bodies united in prayer for action against a morally bankrupt government.

Present day Philippine society still depicts a picture of ill governance, where the practice of virtues is not necessarily the order of the day. Issues regarding propriety, honesty, integrity, transparency and accountability mar our political institutions.

We enjoin everyone to join us for a gathering and candle-lighting ceremony on 18 January 2008 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at La Salle Green Hills. The date commemorates EDSA II, when courageous, patriotic and God-fearing citizens gathered to ask a former Philippine President to step down because of moral and political issues. Seven years have passed since EDSA II and still nothing has change; in fact, the situation has worsened.

The Inter-Faith Gathering on 18 January 2008 will provide us with a venue to remind the people of EDSA II of the lessons we need to learn from the experiences of EDSA: that good governance entails vigilance and active participation on the part of the citizenry to hold the government accountable, and that what we need is not a change of leaders but a change of heart in every Filipino. The De La Salle Brothers have spoken. Let us start the change we want to see.

The gathering is also a follow-up on the Inter-Faith Prayer Rally held on 14 December 2007. It will also be a venue to pray for the forthcoming Inter-Faith-Dialogue with the CBCP Permanent Council, a meeting between the religious, lay faithful, ecumenical bishops and civil society organizations on the current national situation.

Assembly time is at four o’ clock in the afternoon at the Cafeteria of La Salle Green Hills. There will be a symbolic walk to EDSA Shrine. We are requesting the participants to attend the six o’ clock celebration of the Holy Mass. We ask that the schools provide candles for the said activity. For safety and identification, may we ask participants to wear something Lasallian (preferably GREEN).

We are proud to be part of a nationwide movement to promote awareness and activism for the
welfare of all Filipinos. We hope that you will accept our invitation and join us in our efforts toward a moral revolution.

If you have any questions, please contact Ms. Nelca Balisado-Villarin, DJPC Director, at 526-7441 local 258, or send email to djpcdir@gmail.com. You may also contact Mr. Levi V. Albania, DJPC Liaison Officer, at 721-2000 local 611, (0922) 833-5384, or send email to prvlevi@lasallian.ph.

Thank you very much.

In the service of Christ,

BR. ARMIN LUISTRO FSC
Chairperson
District Justice & Peace Commission De La Salle Brothers Philippines

BR. EDMUNDO FERNANDEZ FSC
Brother Visitor
De La Salle Brothers Philippines

Nobel Laureate David Gross tackles lessons of Science

by DLSU-Manila Marketing Communications Office

“Science cannot flourish under any authoritative state,” said 2004 Nobel Laureate for Physics Prof. David Jonathan Gross during a lecture on “The Lessons of Science” last January 10 at the Yuchengco Theater.

In his lecture that was part of “Bridges: Dialogues Towards a Culture of Peace” hosted by the International Peace Foundation, Gross pointed out that a healthy scientific culture requires an open society. He raised the notion of a world government that is grounded on science and opens the door to democracy and tolerance.

Gross likewise noted how the human race has advanced its knowledge of nature, noting a vast surge of information about ourselves, our environment and even beyond in only a matter of 100 years. As he talked about humanity’s control of nature, he also underscored the many threats that we are doing to the health of the planet.

He cited two factors that affect the planet today, namely world population and global energy consumption. He stressed that we must build on an economy and political system that is not dependent on unlimited consumption and growth.

Gross, who won the Nobel Prize for Physics in 2004 together with Frank Wilczek and David Politzer for discovering asymptotic freedom, also discussed their discovery in a manner that the non-Physics majors among the audience— including a large number of high school students—understood.

He explained that asymptotic freedom holds that the closer quarks are to each other, the less the strong interaction (or color charge) between them; when quarks are in extreme proximity, the nuclear force between them is so weak that they behave almost as free particles. Quarks are the smallest form of matter.

The lecture of Gross was the second of the four-part Bridges series to be held at De La Salle University-

Manila. The first Nobel Laureate to visit was Prof. Robert Mundell, 1999 Nobel Laureate for Economics. Former President of the World Bank James Wolfensohn will visit the Philippines in March and 1996 Nobel Laureate for Peace Prof. José Ramos-Horta, President of Timor-Leste, in April.

The International Peace Foundation started Bridges in Thailand, and extended this year to the Philippines, with the aim of facilitating and strengthening dialogue and communication between societies in Southeast Asia as well as with people in other parts of the world, to promote understanding and trust.

Through Nobel Laureates and with local universities and other institutions in Southeast Asia, Bridges seeks to contribute to the United Nations’ Decade for a Culture of Peace and Non-violence, with the establishment of long-term relationships which may result in common research programs and other forms of collaboration.

For websites related to the topic, refer to the following:

http://nobelprize.org/
This is the official website of the Nobel Foundation, which honors the achievements of renowned individuals for their outstanding achievements in particular fields. It provides comprehensive information about the Nobel Prize and Nobel Laureates in Chemistry, Physiology, Literature and Peace dating back to 1901. Resources on the two Nobel Laureates who visited De La Salle University – Manila (Prof. Robert A. Mundell – Nobel Laureate for Economics and Prof. David A. Gross – Nobel Laureate for Physics) are also available on this website.

http://www.peace-foundation.net/
The International Peace Foundation is the host of “Bridges: Dialogues Towards a Culture of Peace”. The event, which is launched by the Vienna-based organization in Thailand and the Philippines, is geared towards the achievement of better cooperation for the promotion of peace, freedom and security. Their official website is updated regularly, with information on the significant cause of each Nobel Laureate.

http://www.globalwarming.org/
The website offers a more analytic view on global worming, linking the environmental issue to overlooked factors such as flawed economic, scientific and risk analysis. Nobel Laureates who are part of the “Bridges” program, such as Prof. David J. Gross, affirms the urgency of a reassessment, stating that it is not technology or science that is at fault but the mismanagement of these resources by contemporary societies.

(Compiled by Chris Alcantara)

Signs of Faith

Christopher M. Alcantara, DLSP Media Bureau Student Correspondent

“…And behold, the star that they had seen at its rising preceded them, until it came and stopped over the place where the child was. They were overjoyed at seeing the star, and on entering the house they saw the child with Mary his mother. They prostrated themselves and did him homage…” (Mt 2:1-12)

The Signum Fidei or Star of Faith is a well-known Lasallian symbol of the De La Salle Brothers. St. John Baptist de la Salle took inspiration from the story of the three kings who set out to pay homage to the newborn King, as told in the Gospel of Matthew. The bright star served as their guide and inspiration all throughout their journey. It was for them a sign of hope. St. La Salle’s instructions to the first Brothers were firm, “your faith should be a light that guides you in all things, and a shining beacon for those whom you instruct (MDF 178:1).”

It may be said that the same hope is what drives millions of Filipinos to the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene, popularly known as Quiapo Church, every 9th of January of each year. They brave the heat and the large crowd to join in the procession in honor of the much-revered image of the suffering Christ. Their ardent devotion leads them to hope that through their faith with Jesus Christ, there will be peace and harmony among families, long life and good health among people, deliverance from all calamities and disasters, and prosperity, joy and love among nations.

For more information on the devotion to the Black Nazarene you may click on one of the links below. Francis Garucho, our Media Bureau student correspondent, went to cover this year’s celebration. Here are some images he brought home for us.

The Black Nazarene: By The Numbers

1606
The year when the life-sized wooden statue of Jesus Christ was brought to the Philippines. It also celebrated its 402nd Anniversary.

1791 and 1929
Years when the Black Nazarene survived two notorious fires that destroyed Quiapo Church. The statue also endured two great earthquakes. It even survived the chaos and destruction brought about by World War II.


1987
The authentic Black Nazarene statue was replaced by a hybrid: the authentic body of the figure (now covered in stainless steel to prevent deterioration) is fused with a replica of the head made by renowned sculptor Gener Manlaqui.

50,000
Estimated number of people gathered around Quiapo Church during the peak of this year’s procession, between 12 and 2 pm.

700
Total number of police officers who secured the perimeter of downtown Quiapo.

1.5 to 3 million
Capacity of Plaza Miranda and Quezon Boulevard, the usual route of the procession, in terms of land area.

2.6 million
The actual number of patrons in this year’s procession. Majority of those who participated were local residents who only joined the procession along its route.

4.7 kilometers
The approximate distance covered by the Black Nazarene procession.

50
Estimated number of people injured during this year’s Black Nazarene procession.


44 and 51
Ages of this year’s two fatalities. Alex Radovan, 41, was a vendor who was trampled in the stampede. Cecilia Fajardo, 51, died of a heart attack. The latter had told a friend that she was supposed to go to Baclaran Church instead, but found herself amidst a turbulent crowd following the Black Nazarene. She was declared dead on arrival at the Philippine General Hospital at 2:40 pm. Last year, two patrons also passed away during the procession.

13 and 15
Number of medical teams and ambulances on standby.

Sources:

Filipino Devotees Honor Jesus Statue
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5j6uv3oHI7UqGZ077IApGIyDs_FfQD8U28TO81

2.6M devotees at Nazarene feast; 2 die, 50 injured
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080110-111438/26M-devotees-at-Nazarene-feast-2-die-50-injured

Crowd swells to 80,000 in Quiapo - police
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/storypage.aspx?StoryId=104924

Black Nazarene devotees hold mass for fatalities
http://www.gmanews.tv/story/75978/Black-Nazarene-devotees-hold-mass-for-fatalities

Black Nazarene image 400 years in Manila on Wednesday
http://www.gmanews.tv/story/7301/Black-Nazarene-image-400-years-in-Manila-on-Wednesday