where we encompassed the national passing rate nga 41.41% with our passing percentage of 85%.”

Marjorie R. Polio, a third year Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSCE) student, expressed her happiness, “I feel very proud for them, most especially for our college. Thinking that I come from the same college gives me the hope that I too, can do it one day.”

Another third year BSCE student, John-Reynald Narciso, said, “I feel so proud. It is very encouraging in our part to do better with our studies.”

By Mayette Hannah F. Diez, Kleine Jun Ontolan, and Mary Grace G. Bornales

Vol.XXXI Issue No. 12 January 6 —17, 2014

T H E N E G R O S ORIENTAL State University—College of Engineering and Architecture (NORSU—CEA) graduates soared high again as they attained 85.71 passing rate in the November 2013 Civil Engineer Licensure Examination (CELE).

NORSU got a passing rate higher compared to the national passing rate of 48.12% set by the professional r e g u l a t i o n

C o m m i s s i o n (PRC).

Of the 21 t a k e r s f r o m

CE grads attain 85.71% civil engr licensure exam passing rate

N O R S U P R E S I D E N T D R. Don Vicente C. Real announced that the University is actually 106 years old this year, and not 86 years old as previously thought.

In his speech during the All University Academic Convocation last November 27, 2013, Dr. Real said that the university’s chief administrator and executive secretary, Nino Zamora, presented scholarly works and other evidence to back up what he thought was the correct year NORSU was established.

Dr. Real disclosed that after thorough study, the National Historical Commission confirmed in a ruling dated November 5,

NORSU redefines its history: 106 Years Old

By Everon Joy P. Catanus

WITH THE OFFICIAL release of results last November 22, Negros Oriental State University-College of Education has produced 132 new licensed teachers—78 Elementary level teachers and 54 Secondary level teachers during the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) held September 22, 2013.

F o r t h e e l e m e n t a r y l e v e l , t h e Professional Regulat ion Commission (PRC) announced that NORSU got a high percentage of 91.73% compared to the national passing rate of 70.91%. For the secondary level, NORSU got 71.33%, also higher compared to the national passing rate of 37.50%. These results include the fresh graduates only.

Dr. Craig Refugio, one of those professors who reviewed the takers, said they conducted institutional reviews for General Education,

CEd producesnew teachers

College of Education. (Photo by: Kendrex B. Pael)

Professional Education, and the Major Field. “We started our review probably last week of March until the last week of April. We also had pre-board.” he added.

Moreover, Refugio said they supported the takers by accompanying them going to their examination venue as well as helping them in identifying their testing centers.

“We were very happy with the result because all our efforts were not put in vain. We garnered what we were supposed to have despite the budget and the hectic schedule,” he disclosed.

Passers speakAccording to Charise Mae Labe, “Wala

jud koy giexpect after sa exam kay mura’g wala pa man gud ni sink in dayun nga mao na toy exam nga mu determine sa amung future. I mean, naa ra japun ang positive spirit pero as what they say, expect the

NORSU, 18 of them successfully passed the CELE. The following new civil engineers are Marie Grace A. Dinglasa, Raymond B. Abiera, Eumer Anoya, Kimberly T. Asa, Mon Carlo D. Frejoles, Essyl L. Lisondra, Jesrelle A. Patenio, Gabriel V. Robedizo, Jessalyn R. Velez, Neil Allen I. Ybañes, Dennis A. Tumala, Lourdito B. Revidad, Emma I. Ojario, Cone E. Ojales, Francil Dave A. Filipinas, Jonathan A. Euraoba, Josie Mae A. Dingal, and Alexander P. Caingcoy.

In an interview with The NORSUnian, CEA Dean Josef Vill S. Villanueva, said, “We are really happy with the result of the examination kay taas gihapun tag passing rate this year, like last year

I N D E V E L O P I N G INTERDEPENDENCE with various stakeholders, University President Don Vicente C. Real and College of Arts and Science (CAS) Dean Fe Violeta B. Taring signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Dumaguete City Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Ramir Uytico for the Alternative Learning System (ALS) University Extension Project at the CAS Audio Visual Room, December 19, 2013.

Dr. Real expressed the des i re of

NORSU partners with DepEd for ALS Extension Program

the university to partner with various institutions to provide quality education especially to the less privilege people in the province. In his speech, he said “The Alternative Learning System or ALS is one of the most resounding programs of the DepEd and I personally support and admire this.”

Dr. Uytico responded that he is happy with the support of NORSU towards the extension program. “We have a lot of challenges in the DepEd. And so we are making a lot of strategies to convince out-

CED PRODUCES NEW... page 3

NORSU PARTNERS WITH ... page 6

By Kimberly Rose E. Lumaya

GARNERING A 54.48 percent passing rate, 55 Bachelor of Science in Criminology graduates of Negros O r i e n t a l S t a t e U n i v e r s i t y - M a i n Campus passed the October 2013 Criminology Board Examination (CBE) as announced by the Professional Regulation Commission.

The passers from NORSU-Main Campus are composed of 48 first timers and 7 repeaters out of 101 total examinees.

55 criminology grads pass CBEThis gave NORSU-Main Campus a passing rate higher than the national result of 45.27 percent.

College of Criminal Justice Education Dean Armando A. Alviola commended in a letter addressing to the University President the good performance of the first-time takers of the said examination. He added, however, that this was affected by the unsatisfactory ratings of the repeaters.

“For this reason, a more aggressive teaching, as well as an improved review

2013 that NORSU was indeed established in 1907 as a wood working class on what was then known as Negros Oriental Provincial High School.

Dr. Real added that the Commission is now in the process of engraving a marker that the university will proudly display and unveil in a future date.

In line with this historical shift, Dr. Real is forming a Centennial Committee that will be tasked with articulating the significance of this development. The committee will also propose activities that will mark the celebration of NORSU’s 107th year in December 2014.By NORSU-IPO

55 CRIMINOLOGY GRADS... page 5

Excellent: College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA) Civil Engineering department continues to produce high quality graduate. (Photo by: Kendrex B Pael)

Vol.XXXI Issue No. 12

2

For the year 2013, the whole Negros Oriental State University community has celebrated its 86th fruitful year of existence as an institution. This reflects the length of time our institution has offered good quality education to the ‘poor but deserving students’ not only in the province and in the country, but also to the other parts of the world. We have been believing for almost a century that this institution was established in 1927 way back the Negros Oriental Trade School (NOTS) times.

But who could ever believe that what we thought of NORSU’s birthday is actually not the real one to date?

University President Don Vicente C. Real surprisingly announced in his speech during the All University Academic Convocation that NORSU is already 106

years old and not 86. He said that the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), an institution responsible for the conservation and preservation of the country’s historical legacies, confirmed that NORSU was indeed established in 1907 at what was then the Negros Oriental Provincial High School as a woodworking class, which was one of the only 23 high schools in the country at that time.

It was University Chief Administrator and Executive Secretary Nino Zamora who presented the scholarly works and other evidences to back up the authenticity of this historical shift. The NHCP is now on the process of engraving a mark for NORSU to be recognized as one of the historical legacies of the significance of this development and this committee will also propose the activities that will mark the next 107th Founding Anniversary of NORSU on December 2014.

Given these facts, we can proudly say that NORSU is an older sibling of some of the leading schools in the country. We could also say that our institution can also achieve what those schools had already achieved in different arena. Now, it is the right time for us to prove how good NORSU is, as an institution of dynamic higher education.

As time goes by, our university will be known for its more-than-a-century-old age. We must bear in mind that we should not only be boasting for the number of years NORSU existed, but for its excellent achievements and good deeds that it offered for the benefit of others and the whole community. This will only be made possible if the whole NORSU community––together with its stakeholders––will work hand-in-hand in achieving this goal by putting all those words into actions.

Sources: http://www.norsu.edu.ph and NORSU Information and Publicity Office

More than a century

Webpage Developer HeadLeonil G. Dayado

Webpage Developer Jergo T. Acido

Contributions, comments, and letters are most welcome. Articles must be typewritten or computer encoded, double-spaced

and with sender’s full name and signature. The staff reserves the right to edit submitted articles.

Adviser Joy G. Perez, Ph.D.

Senior ReportersMary Grace G. Bornales

ReportersDayanara G. Villalon • Sheila Mae Guad • Niña Marie T. Pino

Kimberly Rose E. Lumaya • Meljean Dela Peña • Kleine Jun B.OntolanRichel Mae S. Dennison • Everon Joy P. Catanus

Cartoonists Ranulfo D. Repe, Jr. • Angelo K. Sastre Karlo Billy S. Rubia • Joleos June Vegare

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Froiland D. Liu

Editor-in-Chief Jessie P. DoliaAssociate Editor Joeylen A. Dela Cruz

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Arts and Graphics Unit Head Mayette Hanna F. Diez

Layout Artists Head John R. Rio

January 6 —17, 2014

I was walking past the red-bricked pavement of the university grounds together with all walks of life, hoping to see the same manifestations of what we call law-abiding citizens (or students as we consider ourselves). I was hoping to see students wearing the required dress code that has long been implemented by the university administration, specifically by the University Security Management Office (USMO). But it turned out the other way around.

There were those wearing sleeveless fabrics; some even were so thin that you can visualize what’s hidden inside, like satin textures, far from the required sleeved shirts and blouses for girls. There were those not so stunning men wearing shirts with no sleeves at all. I even saw women wearing not jeans nor the desired uniform, but skirts hanging above the knee level.

I myself tried to do that unintentionally, like

Dressing up!

wearing slippers while going in. Yes, the security officer caught me. “Nganung wala man ka nagsapatos dong?”

I tried to say some excuse, explain myself for the misconduct, “Naguba man gud akong sapatos kuya guard,” and poof! No harm done. Not even one punishment, sanction or any.

What’s alarming? It’s the fact that the security officers are aware and are noticing it, but it seemed l ike they a re no t pay ing any a t t en t ion to the implemented rule as regards to the dress code policy. Or they may pay some, tell the violating creature not to do that again, then what happens next? It will just be the same over and over again. Those students may not do that on the next day, but will do that again the following day.

The dress code policy states that students from different colleges must wear their course uniforms every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Is this followed? I don’t think so. Also stated there were not to wear morally offensive clothes including sleeveless blouses and shirts, slippers, shorts, tattered pants, not even earrings for male students. Students are even expected to be properly groomed while entering the university grounds.

Questions, Are there sanctions done to students violating this policy? Will they be punished if they do so?

If there will be none, does this justify that we are not following the so-called dress code policy anymore. If they will not be sanctioned, does this mean that it’s fine to just dress the way they like, or wear anything that they want

MORE THAN A... page 5

By: The Frustrated Extrovert

A MINUTE BEFORE YOU DIE, probably you are still hearing the VHONG NAVARRO`s set-up issue streaming the media circus. You are still confused why many are claiming the end of the world in 2012 and never happened. You are still questioning and will no longer know why FLOYD ‘MONEY’ MAYWEATHER is stil l ducking to face the Filipino icon MANNY ‘PACMAN’ PACQUIAO inside the ring. You are still hoping for a comeback of L.A. Lakers` star Kobe Bryant or Chicago`s Derrick Rose even. Maybe you are expecting Rafael Nadal to land another title in the tennis world. You are still anxious in your love life or married life or the G2B.

A MINUTE AFTER YOU DIE, probably you are still cold about spiritual things. Probably you`re still skeptic to the word ‘religion’. Probably you are a believer—probably you`re not. Probably you are religious—probably you`re not. Whether you fall either of the black and white—like all, you are going to face God. Sad! You`re not going to be asked about your career nor your mistakes nor your

A minute after you die

shortcomings nor your wealth nor your achievements nor your religion. You’re going to be asked about a relationship question: If you have a moment in your life that you believed or not, accepted or not and trusted or not His Son, the only way, who died on the very shameful, so degrading cross—just for you—to save you from eternal damnation in hell. God cares not of your past but cares more of your becoming and your destiny in eternity, that’s why there was that life story of a cycle—the Christmas and the Crucifixion.Destiny?You are not a robot, and it`s up to you. You choose your own.

A MINUTE BEFORE YOU DIE—an instance—a minute to live your life. How will you live it? How will you spend it? How will you make it? How will you win it? Will you still be addicted to pornography? Will you still not forgive your irresponsible parents, your teacher who dropped you, your best friend who stabbed you at your back, your loved ones because of some empty/unfulfilled promises? Will you still love those things or continue those habits that can hurt you and the rest of your relationships? Will you still be a rule-breaker? Will you still be the one swindling your college allowance, spending on nonsense? Will you still be the quiz-cheater ever? Will you still be the non-sense talker? Will you still be the backbiter of your officemates? Will you still be the insecure? Will you still be the dishonest friend? Will you still be the cheater-lover? Will you still be the mediocre? Will you still be the prey, always begging? Will you still be the one taking advantage of the weak? Will you still be fearful of everything? Will you still be worrying of your financial security? Will you still be the same? Uncertain where you spend your life after you die?

A HALF MINUTE BEFORE YOU DIE: Will you be the difference to the world because God is in

A MINUTE AFTER... page 5

DRESSING UP... page 4

Vol.XXXI Issue No. 12

3January 6 —17, 2014

fortunately, she was one of the receivers of the full scholarship grant of PHCCI — a known cooperative establishment of the province- which made her way to the pavements of this university.

Arlene also shared that she really wanted to be a nursing student especially that the grant was pledged full. However, her parents insisted her to take a journey on education. She was very disappointed but on the other hand thought that, “Better try the field than nothing at all.”

Like many other students, giving up has nearly come to her psyche especially when she experienced b reakdowns , s l eep less n igh t s and financial instability. Good

thing she has gained t rue friends who encouraged and motivated her to continue, strive, and finish her course.

“With the years that followed, I realized that God never leaves

you in your most desperate times,” she furthered.Arlene also cited an instance in

which her friend took up nursing but never landed on the proper field. She

then said, “Any struggle deserves the best counteraction, and that you really deserved to be blessed if you’ve worked and done your part as a faithful being.”

Teaching as a noble professionFor her, teaching life is a challenging

“Ang pag-aaral ay hindi lamang n a n g a n g a i l a n g a n n g s i m p l e n g pagsusumikap, dapat din ay maging m a t a t a g a n g p a n a n a m p a l a t a y a s a Panginoon upang makamit ang mga pangarap.”

—Ma’am Arlene

Arlene Lindayao Decipolo bet ter known by her students as Ma’am Arlene is a 22-year old eloquent educator hailing from the citadel of Cangmating Sibulan. She is the eldest daughter of Merlinda, a housewife; and Armando, a noble and proud fisherman. With a not-so-tall height, this Filipino subject teacher has served NORSU for almost three years.

Decipolo graduated with flying colors in Cangmating Elementary School. She spent her high school years in Negros Oriental High School. In tertiary, she took up Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Filipino at Negros Oriental State University and finished at the age of 19. At twenty, she became a licensed teacher. And as of the press time, she is rendering her service teaching Filipino subjects.

Study LifeLike many o ther people in the i r

individual entities, this young Sibulanon also holds common experiences in life.

According to her, studying is a lifelong process, and that no one stops learning as time goes by. But despite these words, she never realized nor imagined to continue the journey of being a student after she graduated in high school.

“Back then, I joined many groups that influenced me negatively. Samut na ang mag apil ug binuang. O n e o f m y m e m o r a b l e experiences was when we were caught stealing some fruits of the sereguelas by the owner and was af ter then called to the principal’s office.”

She continued, “I never imagined being a college student, kay mangisda ra gud akong papa, ug way trabaho akong mama , so they really could not sustain my needs nor send me to college.”

Considering their status in life, she accepted the fact that studying is not their number one priority. But that reason did not hinder her, instead, she made it as motivation to strive hard. She, then, looked for jobs during summer vacations and searched scholarship grants. And

experience especial ly i f you can get something from the know-hows of your students. She added, “Bisag gamay ra imung madawat, basta ganahan ka sa imung gibuhat, the painful and stressful days are worth it jud.”

Until now, several questions are still boggling in her mind. These include her purposes in life as a teacher, as an educator, and hopes that will still grow literally as time goes on.

In a casual interview, she was asked about her wish in life and she answered, “You know what, my number one wish is to gain more friends, because I believe that they really are the big things that form a part of what I am now, and what will I be tomorrow, and of course, to gain more self-confidence.”

Meanwhile, her main plans are to finish her master’s degree, to help her parents, to build her dream house and to teach her students with the best way she can. She is even asked about her future family, and said, “Wala pa ko ana run, but the plan is always there. And if it’s God’s will, I want to have twin kids if possible, para cute di ba? Pero sana ka height ni papa nila. Haha! Bitaw, si God na ang bahala sa tanan for He knows what’s best for me. His blessings alone are the best.”

Surprisingly, when asked about her love life, she openly blurted out, “Honestly, I am not wanting to have that, but as of

now, there really is someone who soothes me and my agitations.” Believe it or not, within the 22 years of her existence in this planet, she is in her very first relationship with a guy, but is not quite sure what will happen next. “Ayaw lang jud mo pauwat,” she advised.

She also said something to the students: “To my students, thank you so much for being a part of my teaching life. I hope you could still remember me when time will

come na professionals na mo. Basun unya mangligis na mu ug naa na muy 4 wheels. Bitaw, I am so happy with them bisag mas taas pa sila nako. Don’t give up. Be good for He never fails. And to my future students, good luck to you, and see you soon.” Arlene moreover thanked her teachers and friends including her best friend Rhea for being patient supportive.

She summed up everything and said, “Each of us can make a difference to someone’s life. Just do your best and you’re time will come.”

As of the time being, Ms. Arlene L. Decipolo is currently pursuing her

master’s degree in Filipino, and is still teaching the same subject to the students who need her wisdom, positive approach and goodwill. So if you’ll be under her supervision, be prepared for a happy semester.

There it goes! The booth stock competition compelled us to make our own org`s booth. Just a gloomy afternoon, we were waiting for the materials to arrive, there were a bunch of girls who are also doing the same thing just few meters away from us--dancing and joking around and laughing around in short-- doing odd things for a buy, sometime. Okay!?Hmmmm…they are just girls and making that booth meant that they must wait for the carpenter to come. Among all of them, one girl stood out, a chinita in yellow shirt with a well toned skin and rosy cheeks. Beautiful and attractive. I was just looking at her trying to gain some courage trying to let her know that I exist. Yet the day ended, and I was unnoticed.

I am not shy but there is just something in her .That night I could not sleep because the memory, the feeling, the emotion I felt the first time I fell in love seems to be very clear. Clear enough that I even thought it just happened one day before that day. Special? I figured it out and that night I swore to myself that I am going to know her name the next time around. Tomorrow came,

but I did not see her, and so as the next day. Disappointed but still hopeful, I continued searching for her. Now the Founders day celebration was already starting. With enough courage and dedication, I approached her to get her phone number. Yet I did not pursue my goal and let another day pass.

We met again! I did the same thing and my mouth was heaving some words of appreciation. She’s a little naughty, I guess,but I was able to get her number .Well, a dream come true for me. We started texting and knowing each other a little more and yes I was right, she was a little naughty. However, when I came to know her more I found out that she wasn’t just a girl with a beautiful face. The next day we finally agreed to meet. In a place where freedom is imposed, I mean literally. She was wearing a white shirt with short shorts bringing that unspeakable aura. “Gosh I think I just saw an angel in disguise.” We sat down in a pathway made of brick with one pack of nova and bottled water. The atmosphere was just perfect: the blowing wind was cool. When we started chatting, I noticed that she was really an amazing person. Just so great. She likes to touch my ear while I loved touching her waist .It’s really cute especially when I’d just stare right through her eyes and apologize then things will just

“It all started when the Founder`s day is fast approaching.”

LOVE BITES... page 5

unexpected. Pero pagkabalo nako nga nakapasar ko, lapaw pas langit akong kalipay and thankful kaayo ko ni Lord. Ako lang ika advice para sa mga mu take next year, always believe in God and in yourself. Pray reverently because God knows the desires of your heart. He grants wishes in His own perfect time.”

Meanwhile, Albert C. Umbac said that the exam was not that

CED PRODUCES NEW... from page 1

hard. “Not to brag, but I was expecting to pass kay sayon ra jud ang exam. Mas lisud pa man gani ang pre-board. After the result, I was very happy to see my name on the list of the passers. All the worries were gone and it just proved nga tanan namung natun-an, nagamit jud.”

Furthermore, last year’s Suma Cum Laude Israelli Dela Luna expressed her joy after the result.

“Dili man sa panghinambog but I was expecting to pass. Pero, ako gi assess ang exam, di man jud sya baling lisuda. Nanggawas man pud ang gireview namu. Murag I saw a little hope na makapasar but kuyawan ra japun ko. After the result, baling lipaya jud nako. I praised the Lord for answering my prayer.”

Students opineTo a certain Wilma T. Cimafranca,

fourth year BEED student, she was very happy and proud not only for the passers but also for NORSU. “Siguro, naa’y possibility nga ma 100% na next year sa kagrabe sa among mga trainings. Kung naa’y mga seminars nga pwedeng apilan, apilan jud. Dayun kana pung sa amung practice teaching run, more hours ang gi require namu. Pero si Lord ra jud ang kabalo mu pahiluna namong tanan.”

Furthermore, Cresi lda G. Buling extended her felicitations to the passers. “Happy kaayo ko para nila kay for 4 years nila nga stay dinhi sa NORSU, na fulfill ra jud nila ilang dream nga mag maestra. Happy pud ko sa mga retakers kay nakapasar na jud sila. Next year, kami na man pud mu take, gi kuyawan na jud ko pero nag hope ra jud ko nga makapasar ko dayun maka land ug job.

By Niña Marie Pino

T H E N E G R O S ORIENTAL State University—College of Education (CEd) celebrated its Christmas Party in a unique way on December 20, 2013.

Root crops and fruits were the main menu and gifts were worth one peso only.

CED Dean Libert ine De Guzman said, “Some people nowadays are very materialistic and that is the main reason why we have conducted such kind of party”.

De Guzman said celebrating Christmas with their college was not a party at all for according to her, parties require gowns, sophisticated outfits, nice food and drinks. However, she said, “I am so happy that we came up with this event in which ube, camote, cassava and banana are the only food to eat”.

F u r t h e r m o r e , t h e d e a n s h a r e d t w o t h o u g h t s a n d learnings about the event. She said, “First, we could enjoy even

CEd serves fruits, rootcrops during Christmas Party

in midst of complex and second, we could be happy in this world even if we don’t have the money nor the delicious foods”.

She continued, “This is summed up that even if you don’t have the lavish things, you can still be happy in the season of Christmas”.

For CED Governor Harold Pelaez, “It was a successful event. We don’t need to spend much money for the foods and the gifts. Also, it is a good way since there is also a thanksgiving that was done.”

Sophomore BSED student, Kenneth Omnos said, “I was really happy for our college; I r ea l i zed tha t ce lebra t ing Christmas party was not only for the excessive foods, nice Christmas trees but as long as we are all united as one”.

Moreover, third year BSED s tudent , Je rome Lumpayao said, “Ok ra nga root crops kay para pud malahi and food and i t i s hea l thy. Bonding was the most important in the occasion.”

Vol.XXXI Issue No. 12

4January 6 —17, 2014

I always look down on myself, and that`s me! I came to a place where I knew no one. An environment where I never used to be. Alone, lonely and remote I am. New faces, new traits that make me intimidated. But then I came to realize that I have more than what they have. I mean the people around me.

“Excuse me, is someone sitting here?” “NO.” oh! Thanks...Like strangers? I am talking of my classmates. I

was in the fourth row of the third column. Silently, peek ing on wha t my row sea tmates had been busy doing and hugging my bag suspiciously like someone’s going to steal it. Everyone was actively talking, giggling, and shouting. I just felt like I was on a busy street. All of a sudden an average height man, with white flawless complexion and shiny black average hair entered the room. He used black bordered graded eyeglasses, wore black slacks paired with long sleeves polo with a shirt inside and a backpack and a tablet on his hand.He looked cute on his decent style of outfits. At my first glance, I knew that he is very meticulous in terms of old happenings or so I say HISTORY.

Then days passed and I a t tended my class

“Don’t judge the book by its cover.”

By Niña Marie T. Pino

THE ELECTION FOR the new set of Negros Oriental State University Alumni Association (NORSUAA) officers highlighted the 86th Alumni Homecoming held at the university sports and cultural complex on November 30.

The new president of NORSUAA is last year’s one of the outstanding alumni awardees, Hon. Nilo D. Sayson. The vice president is the university security management office (USMO) Chief Executive Officer Benjamin Valencia.

T h e s e c r e t a r i a l p o s i t i o n is designated to Dr. Laarni C. Diamaoden. Her assista1nt is English Department instructor, Ms. Rhodora Cleope.

The Treasurer and Assistant Treasurer positions are assumed by Ms. Maricor Cordora and Ms. Roxcyl Tano respectively. Mrs. Cristina G. Rona and Rafaelito Piñero take the positions being the NORSUAA auditor and Press Relation Officers (PRO) respectively.

Moreover, the Board of Directors of the association were also elected: Dr. Romula S. Aleta, Jose Guiuan, Dr. Armando Alviola, Ms. Gericah May Rodriguez, Ms. Virgie Cadiz, Mrs. Marlyn Piñero, Ebenezer G. Sanchez

New NORSUAA officers elected

and Rudolph Taub.The new set of NORSUAA

officers will assume the office for the next three years.

Homecoming celebrationFormer NORSU President

Henry A. Sojor, the guest speaker, attended the said celebration and gave his inspirational message. He tackled on the functions of the university’s foundation and referred it to the NORSU administration, the faculty and staff, the students, the alumni and

other stakeholders in the community. He said, “Without the help of one, the others will not stand alone just like the four legs of a chair.”

V i c e P r e s i d e n t f o r Administration, Planning and Development Peter Dayot also gave his message. He said, “No one can be alumni that can love the university more than his own.”

M e a n w h i l e , l a s t t e r m ’s NORSUAA President Gilberto Fuentes presented during the

A GLANCE OF... page 5

LOOKING AT THE... page 6

NEW NORSUAA OFFICERS... page 5

Facebook has gone wild through our nerves as it replenishes the drought of our personal endeavors and quenches our thirsts for fun and entertainment. So let us go back to some of these trending sorrow-erasers of 2013.

Sharing your obsessions on food, with full of spectacle and glamour, is called

food porn. You might be wonder ing why they use such obscene word to describe food, and maybe that foodstuff is designed with such

nudity. But that’s a big no-no, for elegance is the

only reason in describing such bounty, or if not, doing

it with a style. Maybe you were able to see a friend, sharing

and posting a photo of the food he has eaten, elegantly made and was

designed with all extravagance. Well, that is one of the bragging rights.

Let the world know what you’re doing or feeling through hashtag.

As you have experienced, tagging a friend or another is a common way to share something or let anyone know your sentiments, not until hashtag was introduced to the public via social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter. By typing the # sign and encoding a word—it could be anything

as long as you wish to supply the word to the hashtag sign and good enough to be savored by others, and alas! Your message or status can be read by someone by just searching for the hashtag that you’ve encoded.

Give that one a meme comment.Writing a response to a status or a posted photo is quite

boring. Some will put some smileys on it, but you’d think it’s enough? Why won’t you try to post something funny that would bring laughter to ones l i p s ? M e m e s are just photos o f a l l s o r t s , blended up with some hi lar ious ac ts and some f u n n y w o r d s wi th i t , and i t surely will make someone happy and boisterously laugh with a memorable meme that you’ve made and posted just for him.

What is your OOTD? Some really can’t stop their will to post their glamorous OOTD or outfit of the day. Many poses on the camera with their vain smiles and their elegantly unusual outfit that they desire for the public to savor and envy on. There were few who poses with some out

‘A vote for a Change’. A NORSUAA Scholar assisted some NORSU alumni with regards to the election of the new set of officers and board of directors. (Photo by Marve G. Fabela)

to? Where then is decency? These are just some of the

questions that need answers, not only for the student’s compliance, but also for the security of this

university, for who will suffer from the misconducts of many but the whole institution. And, who stands for the decency of the students but the university.

DRESSING UP... from page 2

Vol.XXXI Issue No. 12

5

By Kimberly Rose E. Lumaya

THE NEWLY ESTABLISHED Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) Dramatics Guild has staged its first ever theatrical play entitled, “Ang Paglilitis ni Mang Serapio” on December 12-13 at the University Sports and Cultural Complex.

The play was about the contemptible fate of the lead character, Mang Serapio. Mang Serapio is a member of a federation composed of beggars. One day, he was accused to have been safekeeping a child so he was forced to face the court. According to the laws of their federation, he violated the law of spending money for the needs of the child instead of donating it to the federation.

For the main actor of the play, John Dave Laturnas, “Wala mi capital sa pagsugod. But still with the initiative of our director, na manage namo ni. Through being resourceful, naka come

NORSU Dramatics Guild stages Ang Paglilitis ni Mang Serapio

“ANG PAGLILITIS NI MANG SERAPIO”: The theatrical play showcased by the newly established NORSU Dramatics Guild with main actor, John Dave as Mang Serapio in the center. (Photo by Kent S. Mapula)

up mi sa mga basura ug among itarong ang among performance because this is the most important element of a play.”

“I just hope that you enjoy the play. There will be more soon. This is just a beginning”, he added.

Meanwhile, the Dramatics Guild Director Virgilio Nicasio said the actors did their best and the entire play was really successful.

However, before the successful enactment of the play, the Dramatics Guild family according to the director faced several problems financially but more particularly with the venue of their rehearsals.

Nicasio said, “One of the problems we have encountered was the place of rehearsals. We were kicked out of the gym for many times although we had the approval of the university president”.

He shared he almost had a fight with somebody who have been verbally abusive to him. He said, “He wanted us to

January 6 —17, 2014

be out of the gym ‘cause he said this is their gym that should be owned by NORSU”.

The director said, “We also couldn’t have our rehearsals in the amphitheater for it rains and sometimes, too hot”.

The director added, “As of now, they haven’t given me any place for rehearsals. I told Dr. Real about it. I wrote him a letter. I told him verbally about it in follow up to what I wrote to him. Until now, nothing was given to me.”

When asked about his plan to conduct another play for the next semester, Nicasio stated, “I’m trying to envision to have “Mga Hapit ni Sisa” in the first semester. It’s a classic pre-Hispanic era. This particular play needs a lot of casting.”

He continued, “So, there would be an audition sometime before the end of the semester. I need more actors for the casting of it”.

get better. Next thing I did was a little crazy, slowly I caught her hand held it for few seconds without saying anything then slowly I looked into her eyes and asked “N__z? Is it ok to like you?” I can’t really believe I said those words but luckily she responded fairly saying I have the freedom.

I took a deep breath then I said to myself “Gosh I think I’m really in love with this girl”. Then I asked her “Do I have a chance?” and she said “Yes, a big chance”. Wow! At that moment I really thought my heart was two times bigger because it was filled with hope. We continued to meet and guess what? She gets even sweeter every time. I fell in love with her, truly I did and it was the most amazing feeling I ever felt. Love is just so amazing that we can’t even predict it, not even close. But more than a week later, things changed drastically. She seldom replied my texts and won’t make ways for us to meet. I really don’t want to think negatively that time, not

until she texted and I quote “Your too nice para nako. Love kau q nmu maskin di keu nq masuklian na and pasalamat kau ko sa days nga nagka koug ta kai nakaila ko nimo gamay. Kathink ko nga dli jud q deserving para nimo.)... we’re better off being friends”.

My tears did fell down without me noticing it. I was really devastated and empty so I went to my hometown for me to gather all the broken pieces. Back home I hugged my mama, apologizing for loving another girl as much as I love her. She didn’t understand it obviously but she hugged me back, fair enough. Now I’m almost over her, I’m saying almost because it’s really not easy. But things will just get better soon, I hope and if that happens I wish I’ll never be afraid to try again. I’m not making love stories real, I’m making a real love story and I know for sure there are still lots of chapters left to unfold. And hey by the way who says only mammals with tooth can bite? False love hurts.

NEW NORSUAA OFFICERS ... from page 4LOVE BITES... from page 3

program is needed” he stated.The dean further said as a preparation

for the next licensure examination, CCJE will be offering a free review for retakers.

Alviola congratulated the graduates who were able to pass the examination. “I hope nga makapangita ra dayon sila ug trabaho” he added.

He also revealed the passing rates of other satellite campuses which are way above than the national passing rate except for the NORSU-Bayawan-Sta. Catalina Campus which garnered a 24.00 passing rate.

According to Alviola, the failure of most of the graduates in the CBE is due to not attending the review because of financial problems.

Dumaguete Main Campus II posted the highest result with 84.21%, followed by Bais Campus (73.08%), Siaton Campus (71.42%), Mabinay Campus (70.00%), Guihu lngan (69 .23%) and Bayawan (30.30%).

The PRC reported 11,217 passers out of 24,779 examinees for the October 2013 CBE.

55 CRIMINOLOGY GRADS... from page 1

A GLANCE OF... from page 4

of the box dresses and with their own fashion statements, never mind the opinionated minds of those jealous perks around.

Your friends became giraffes? Of course, who wouldn’t recognize this mind boggling, consequential, logical riddle game in Facebook? If you don’t, well, that wasn’t because they just loved to see giraffes on their profile pictures; that just meant that they weren’t just good enough to answer the widely spread one riddle. Logically, this game doesn’t have to be answered on the most drastic mental analyses, which some were using when they tried to decipher the answer to such. Here, if you were to be answer this riddle, “3:00 am, the doorbell rings and you wake up. Unexpected visitors. It’s your parents and they are there for breakfast. You have strawberry jam, honey, wine, bread and cheese. What is the first

thing you open?” What would your answer be?

Reminisce the past, press on throwback. This may be is one of the most trending

features in Facebook for the past year, letting every users to have their chance to go backwards, to the memories of the past and to the treasures of what they have shared. More often, throwback pictures are those ones with the happy moments, some even are so funny that you could just roll on the floor laughing and realizing that you were once a silly little kid. Some also post a photo of a friend just to make fun of him, or just to remember the laughter and tears.

Give yourself a perfect selfie. Do I still have to elaborate this self-taken pictures of yours, which you’d actually prefer to be uploaded more than the photos

with your friends? Newsfeeds are all bound with Facebook’s selfie pics users around the world. No wonder! The word selfie was chosen as the word this year.

Welcome 2014, here’s our number game. Who would not recognize this contagious

game in Facebook? Early in 2014, this trending feat has dominated the profiles of many users. If out there somewhere that you weren’t able to play this game, here is how this game was played: You will give your number to your Facebook friend, any number of your choice will do, then you will let that friend of yours say something about you, and post it on your timeline, or in your profile, filling your newsfeed with numbers and praises. What’s interesting is the mystery of your identity that others might be wondering who this mischievous being is.

According to answers.yahoo.com, the

proper way to play it is this: You will be given a list of things in a post, numbered accordingly, and if there’s an instant that you weren’t able to recognize the thing enumerated on a specific number, let’s just say the thing number 8, then such will be your number. After that, to complete the task, you have to say 8 things about yourself, just to satisfy the desire of this game to entertain others and you maybe.

Humans as we are, what comes to the top trend shall be applied to our customary social minds. One click and, Tada! The fun starts and never stops. A short browse and you can see all sorts of acts and apps that may uplift your agitated entity. So go on and savor another facebook trends of this year and the following years to come. Just make sure that your rights and responsibilities are well taken care of.

your heart? We are not perfect, but how about pursuing excellence? Will you be the poet or a novelist who inspires? Will you be the comforter of a confused fellow? Will you be the good model of the youth? Will you be the faithful lover/friend? Will you be the confident learner? Will you be the secure? Will you be the honest one? Will you be the thankful? Will you be the faithful? Will you be the one loving difficult people unconditionally? Will you never hesitate correcting a friend of a mistake? Will you be a provider and a loving husband? Will you be a good follower as a mark of a leader? Will you be flexible and open to criticism? Will you be trustworthy? Will you give justice of your time? Will you be a good influence to your circle? Will you be someone`s brother/sister through ups and downs? Will you be a help to a stranger in times of trouble? Will you be that person who loves to see changed

lives because of your life story? Will you be that competent teacher who loves learning? Will you be that someone who can talk to someone gracefully? Will you be that someone who can settle a conflict over a cup of coffee? Will you be that someone who cares the people and the world? Will you follow Jesus?

DEATH IS ABSOLUTELY INEVTABLE. It can happen to anyone, anytime, anywhere. Death does not choose whether you are a newly born or old, whether you are rich or poor, whether you are an achiever or reluctant, whether you are encouraged or discouraged, whether you are a leader or a follower, whether you are the good sheep or the black sheep, whether you are called the ‘HONESTO’ or the worst liar, whether you are happy or the broken-hearted. It does not choose. So simple--DEATH SUCKS! How much more

spending eternity in inferno? A NEXT FOR A TIME, if you don`t

have His Son; expect HELL coming your way. If you have believed, then you are saved from sin, death, hell; and good news, you are going to give account of your life—you will be judged of the amount of rewards/crowns that you will have in heaven. In other words, you are rewarded with your good works. See! Seek God first; then all things shall be added, not mine, but according to the Scriptures.

I AM JUST CONVINCED that there is more to this life that we are having. There is more to this journey that we are trying to ride with the longing for fulfillment or satisfaction. There is more to this time that we are trying to spend expanding our self-territories, getting out from the shell, moving out from our comfort zones. There is more to this cycle of giving birth, and

raising kids, and finding careers, and finding a lifetime companion, and struggling with the life-downs, and dying. There is more to these. Fact, in deduction, it is neither religion nor your own good works that will bring you to heaven--as your eternal home; it is having a personal relationship with the only Mediator, Jesus—the one perfect connector of a sinful man and a holy God. A minute after you die? Come to think of it.God loves you. You should know. Decide to know Him by committing your life to God, by accepting—a Savior—not a religion, but a relationship. Products of PROMISED POWER l ike loving uncondit ional ly, patience, passion for helping people to name a few and the fruits of the Holy Spirit will just follow.

Email the writer at rujcariaga@ gmail and/or follow him @RujCariaga on Twitter for comments/updates.

A MINUTE AFTER... from page 2

celebration this year’s outstanding alumni, Princesita Fiscus and Demetrius Bracamonte. Fuentes also acknowledged the accomplishments of the association for the previous years, the NORSUAA scholars, the services rendered by the “Balay sa Alumni” and those alumni who garnered several awards in their chosen fields.

Attending the event were the Batches from 1959 to 2013 and fifteen NORSUAA scholars were also pesent.

This year’s alumni reunion was organized by the Batch ’88 that celebrated its 25th anniversary.

Vol.XXXI Issue No. 12

6January 6 —17, 2014

By Mary Grace G. Bornales

T O D E V E L O P A D V O C AT E S f o r g e n d e r e q u a l i t y a n d w o m e n empowerment among students, the Gender and Development (GAD) together with the senior nursing students initiated a seminar and campaign to end Violence against Women (VAW) on December 5.

The one-day seminar with the theme “Empower ing the Vulnerables: Speak for Equity and Stand for Dignity” was about the public issues and concerns regarding Gender Sensit ivity, Violence against Women and Children (VAWC), Magna Carta

GAD initiates seminar, campaign to end VAWfor Women, Sexual Harassment and Anti- trafficking. Each of these topics was discussed by invited speakers.

GAD Direc to r Rosa l inda Abellon has lectured on Gender Sensi t ivi ty and VAWC where she enumerated and explained the different domestic violence like physical, psychological or emotional, sexual and economic abuse and focused more on Republic Act 9262 which opposes the said violence.

Meanwhile, Assistant City P rosecu to r Mary F lo r Duka talked on the Magna Carta Law f o r Wo m e n . S h e d i s c u s s e d the different provisions of the constitution stating the roles of

the women in nation building and the protections, rights and opportunities for women.

She also explicated about the equal treatment of men and women in different fields before the law.

M o r e o v e r , A n t i - s e x u a l Harassment was lectured by a member of Gender Watch Against Vi o l e n c e a n d E x p l o i t a t i o n (GWAVE) lawyer, Pristine Ramona Raymond who expounded about the act of sexual harassment, the possible grounds or settings and the suspected doer.

Romualdo “Dondee” Señeris, a member of Provincial Inter-a g e n c y A g a i n s t Tr a f f i c k i n g discussed the human, child and internal trafficking. He specified

identically as what I used to be in our first meeting. No friends. I remained silent and my voice could only be heard in our class recitation. I was supposedly about to take my guts on action because I want someone whom I could ask for in times I could hardly get what my teacher says.But then, I decided not to make friends anymore since I’ve seen how invisible I am on them.

“Good afternoon class.” “Good afternoon sir.” “Now let us continue our discussion.” As our teacher conversed, I was

busy scanning my copy because I was not ready for any questions raised by him. Good thing, as our discussion goes deeper, I was not called. After thirty minutes, we finished one topic and he decided to assign to us something we could do by group. After we were grouped, our teacher instructed us to meet and talk about our presentation. This time I didn’t dare move a leg. I just waited patiently for them to come closer. Another problem came; we have to decide on what to do to the assigned

LOOKING AT THE... from page 4

“Gifts for Smiles”. With the cooperation of three organizations of Silliman University namely Leyte Samar Sillimanities, Sigma Rho Fraternity, Delta Lambda Sigma Sorority and Societas Viri Scholasticorum Patriea of NORSU, the president of Student Government NORSU, Norelyn Talorete helps serve the food to the students of Janay-Janay Elementary School, San Jose, Sibulan this month.

topic which I could hardly think of a good idea because I was bothered by the unfriendly environment I was in.

I gazed skeptically on this typical lady, my group mate. I doubted if we could be friends since she looked unapproachable. She has this snob-like factor. You know! Our practice came and I was so unsure of what will happen to me at the end of that day. As I came to our practice place, I saw her, Prom (not her real name). But this time, I didn’t doubt and approached her.

“Hi!” I said with cross fingers. At that moment I was thinking that she’ll never care nor look at me. But what I thought was wrong. She answered me with that soft smile I’ve never seen. I was overwhelmed that she was not bad at all. We talked a lot, laugh and shared scary moments. When our class came, I was quiet. I saw Prom on her seat. She still do what she used to. But this time, her voiceless personality was changed. She approached me. I was glad Prom called me. I thought she was like the others, instant friends you say. But she’s not. After what happened to us, she has changed. She told me everything what

lies behind her and all the reasons that motivated her to do such actions. I was so happy because she trusted me though we barely know each other. I saw myself in her. We had so many similarities that I’ve never seen to my other comrades.

Our friendship goes deeper. She told me things that even her parents don’t know. I was so shock of knowing her disease, cerebral arteriosclerosis. I felt the pain that she has. What’s worse is she can’t even tell her parents about it because they don’t care. I was so down knowing that she’s l ike an outcast in their family. She had so much trouble of adjusting herself to the environment with the deadly disease she is carrying. She had lots of absences, unpassed projects and untaken exams. Her head aches in any minute. With that, she failed so many subjects. She was a scholar back then. But because of what happened she lost it and was blamed. Her parents never did try to listen to her side. She tried explaining but it was of no use. She could do nothing but to receive all the heartaches and distress. Now I know my thoughts of her being

weird and introvert and my mass of questions are answered.

I wanna cry. I never realized how lucky I am. With all the things she shared to me, she altered. She told me how I changed her. From that old her, she evolved. Now she is merry and radiant. She has this cheery attitude I didn’t expect from her. She cares for me more than what I thought. She could even risk her life for me. We treated each other as biological sisters. She can be one of the great things you could ever receive or the best thing you could ever have and you’d simply choose to die rather than losing her.

You could never tell what happens in the future. What you think is not really what it is. Impressions are just senses. What you see at first should not be your bases. God really has good plans; He collided our ways and changed our lives.

Lollipop is a first year psychology student who always wanted to appear invisible in the crowd.

By Meljean F. dela Peña

DUMAGUETE HAS A new bishop after Most Reverent Father Julito Cortes had his Calonnical Installation and Liturgical reception on December 5, 2013 at the Cathedral of Saint Catherine of Alexandria.

Cortes, 57, has served in the Diocese of Dumaguete in the early years of his priesthood as wells as in the Archdiocese of Cebu. Now, he is the fourth bishop of the Diocese of Dumaguete replacing Bishop John Du.

Father Crisologo “Cris” Baroyla expressed his all-out felicity for having their new bishop whom who could guide and set direction for them. “In behalf of all my colleagues, nalipay jud mi og dako kay naa nami’y obispo,” Baroyla said.

Community NewsNegOr has new bishop

J u n i o r B a c h e l o r o f M a s s Communication student, Shynne Marie Peral said “I hope he would be a good leader in spreading Christ iani ty to everyone especially to the youth and I hope there will be no anomalies in his leadership when it comes to money.”

Meanwhile, third year Bachelor of Elementary Education student Airene Joy Merced, said, “God had already answered our prayer. It is a good thing that we now had our new bishop in the Diocese of Dumaguete. Let us just hope and pray that he will remain in good health always”.

Moreover, freshman Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology student Giramae Torres hopes that Cortes will be a good bishop for all Dumagueteños and that he can lead all the people to God.

legalized or tolerated prostitution, force labor and poverty as the things that drive human trafficking.

For a fourth year nursing student Alvie Dagle, the seminar was great. He said, “It was a successful and good seminar kay ma-aware jud ang mga students sa mga current issues sa society”.

Senior Bachelor of Science in Criminology student Marie Fe Alabata said the seminar taught her lot of things like what are the indications if the person is already victimize. ”As a crim student, dapat naa jud kay knowledge about ani kay kung naay navictim, naa kay ikaadvise ug unsay buhaton,” she said.

“It is indeed sad to know

nga naa diay mga violence cases nga ga-occur. But thanks to the seminar since I have learned now how to manage this matter and the sanctions that will be imposed to those who commit ted i t ,” said sophomore Nursing student Lyanada Feiam Aguilar.

Furthermore, after the series of discussions, all of the participants signed a banner as an indication that they support the campaign to end VAW.

The event was participated in by students and the faculty of the College of Nursing Dentistry, Pharmacy and Al l ied Heal th Sciences and some criminology students. It took place at NORSU Cultural Complex.

of-school youth and others who are not in school. That’s why we have a lot of programs and projects. We even have a homestay program wherein NORSU is willing to adopt”, Uytico said.

T h i s e x t e n s i o n p r o g r a m w a s conceptualized to assist in providing basic education to ALS students. “The university would help review the students for nat ional achievement exams, to prepare the ALS students who wish to pursue college education by enriching their academic preparation and to prepare the ALS graduates for the Technical Educat ion and Ski l l s Development

NORSU PARTNERS WITH... from page 1

Authority (TESDA) program,” ALS Project Coordinator Rhodora D. Cleope said.

Among the people who witnessed the MOA signing are the Vice President for Research, Extension, and International Linkages (REXIL) Office Bernadette O. Tan, University Extension Director Evelyn M. Lazalita, College of Criminal Justice Education Dean Armando Alviola, College of Education Dean Libertine De Guzman as well as the different Department Chairs and faculty members of CAS. By NORSU-IPO