B&GThe BLUE & GOLDAteneo de Naga University High SchoolOfficial Student PublicationJune-October 2012

In Omnibus Amare

et ServireIn All Things

to Love and to Serve-St. Ignatius of Loyola

esse Manalastas Robredo a God-fearing man, a loving husband and father, and a simple leader of the people. Not everyone knew him that way, but every Bicolano did. Not everyone loved him, un-like every Bicolano did. Only then after his demise that he became known and loved for his deeds as a devoted public servant to the people. Only then after his demise that people wanted to know Jesse more not just as a man but as a hero. The way the nation has remembered his acts of service towards the people and his desire to change the country by his means of genuine and selfless governance has evidently shown that the people hunger longingly for the true essence of public service, which Jesse has fully manifested.

He is one of the many modern heroes that we Fili-pinos recognize today, but are we fully aware how heroes become heroes?

Heroes can be pictured in the most uncanny of ways, as many of us think of superheroes who beat up bad guys, or men with magic swords who fight for freedom from foreign power.The irony is that heroes can also be found in the most common oc-currences of daily life. Think of your teachers who use chalk and blackboard to free you from illiteracy, your classmates who use pens and papers to free themselves from their own ignorance, your friends who make you cry and laugh to free you from unre-sponsiveness that can make you less humane can they be heroes too?

Yes. Everyone can be a hero, as many Filipinos have already proved: Jose Rizal is a hero who asked for reforms by pen. Manny Pacquiao is a hero who has put the Philippines in a place of honor through his boxing career. Jesse Robredo is a hero who served the country truthfully by living out his principles. The list is long and it goes on.

A hero can be a hero by his own unique way of becoming one. Everyone is called to be a hero. Nevertheless, people find it difficult to heed the call. Is there something in a human being that can help him/her answer this call? A good old Jesuit, Saint

Ignatius of Loyola, said that man is created to praise, reverence, and serve God. A man of good example who lived out this principle is Jesse Robredo. He was able to praise, reverence, and serve God while he was still with us. What made him do so much for the people and for God? The answer is: It was because of his love and his pure desire to serve. Be-ing the secretary of the Department of Interior and Local Government, he could have chosen to do his job in the easy, self-serving way, but no. He chose to do his job the hard way, but he did not mind, for he really wanted to help his fellowmen especially the poor and the needy because he loved them.While in the nations ministry, his strong faith in God has taught him to be in the likeness of Christ to live in simplicity. He served others as he served God. His exemplary leadership and service has awed many as it had awed God. He had a good relationship with the masses as he had with God.

Jesse was extraordinary despite his being ordi-nary. He has proved that the rich, the poor, the weak, and the powerful can all be heroes in their own ways. Their means do not always have to be grand. It is the authenticity of the heart that always counts.

In the story of Superman, a fictitious hero, he was born to become a hero. In reality, no one is born to become a hero. We have the freedom to choose and what we choose is what we become. This is Gods great challenge for us in life: to choose what is right, to do what is right, and to live what is right as we deal with the people around us.

In the story of Jesse Robredo, he made himself a hero because of the choices he made. He chose to become a man for others, and because he chose right, he did right and he lived right, he has proven to the world that heroes are made through the life that they live.

So dear Ateneans, are you up for the challenge to become men and women for others? By saying yes and living up to it, you become heroes even as you live.

Heroism

J

EDITORIAL

Vol. 57 No. 1 June -October, 2012

Editor in Chief: Trisha Marie RubioManaging Editor: Rickdane GomezNews Editor: Isis Normagne PascualFeatures Editor: John Paul Sabio

Senior Writers:Ian Villaverde, Bryan Zantua, Michael Real, Jeff Ryan Imperial, Masahiro Kuronaga, Michael Tes-ta, John Noble Bobis, Nikki Marie Rubio, Vienna Marie Rubio, Charliene Alexie Deliva, Reycel Hyacenth Bendana, Ted Aaron Dogillo, Denise Geandra Tan, Zerah Graciene Alba, Christian Lloyd Bertumen, Emerson Borja, Joshua Ben-jamin de la Fuente, Senador Matthew Vargas, Geosh Aeron Gomez, Mark Joffel Aonuevo

Junior Writers:Cirenia Jovian Baluyot, Kim Abraham Pahati Photographers:Cecille San Buenaventura, Michael Real, Adrian Olivan, Reina Santiago, Jarra Mangente

Artists:Fiel Payte, Danielle Angela Aragon

Graphics Artist: Jan Gabriel de Guzman

Moderator:Mr. Meljohn Tatel

INTHISISSUEMY FAVORITE JESUITS 6Fr. James OBrien was our Bikol Culture teacher. Even up to this day, I still wonder how and why he took on the subject. Of course, he knew it more than everybody else did. (He gave grades of 99% to those who knew the lessons by heart.) He taught me to know Bikol, love Bikol and return to Bikol when the right time comes. Never did I realize that I will be a disciple someday.

DIOS MABALOS 8I have heard many people thank the late Secretary Jesse Robredo through the Bikol expression, Dios mabalos. In my native tongue, it literally means, God will return the favor. When one says Dios mabalos, however, one endeavors to do more than to appreciate the other. In a heart that overflows with gratitude, one responds by seeking to be the revelation of God to others.

MY MEMORY OF JESSE 10Jesse was in my 3A moderating class in 1972-1973. At that time, there was no Pistaym, no JS. The one big thing was Intramurals. Like today, every student was listed in an event. But unlike today, in the end, year level champions in 1st Year and 2nd Year competed for the Junior Championships.

GOING THE WAY OF THE DODO 14Long ago, the whole world lived together in harmony, then everything changed when evil and greed attackedOnly the real hero, master of his values could stop them, but when the world needed him most, he vanished. A thousand years passed and I discovered the new real hero.

ADIEU, AMONG 161.5k, 3k, 5k, 10k, 21k.These are not new carat measurements for gold or other gemstones. No theyre not. These are the most common distance divisions for those running enthusiasts and the fun runners during fun walks, fun runs, and even marathons. While this running trend is now getting popular, so does the Maogmang Lugar keep up with it.

MEET THE NEW SHEPHERD OF THE FLOCK 18Cherishing the 28 rich-filled years in building and nurturing the Kingdom of God under the archbishop-emeritus, the Caceres welcomes Bishop Rolando Tirona, O.C.D., D.D., the 34th Ordinary and fourth Archbishop of the see of Caceres.

In the feast day of St. Ignatius of Loyola, an Ateneo girl assists an orphan during the outreach at the Gift of Love, Naga City. (Photo by Mr. MeljohnTatel) Cover Design by Mr. Meljohn Tatel

Ignatius of Loyola, said that man is created to praise,

Aar

on P

atric

k A

rand

ela

The Blue&Gold. June-October 2012 5

AdminNew mid-level admin appointed

Assuming office at the start of the academic year, the following are the new appointees: Mr. Isagani Oloya (Registrar and Director of Admission and Aid Office); Mr. Mario Francis Embestro (Campus Minister); Mr. Claro Chavez (Prefect of Students); Mr. Geraldo Brizuela (Director of Guidance); New chairpersons: Mr. Freddy Pandes (Values Education Dept); Ms. Flonina Real (Computer Ed); Ms. Lisa Magdaraog (Biology-Chemistry) and Ms. Gemma Moreno (Physics-General Science Cluster).

Clubs Orgs win new members in Club Trek 2012

The Ateneo de Naga High School held its annual Club Trek last June 24 and 25 at the Covered Courts. The different clubs and organizations set up exhibits to advertise their goals and activities to members, especially to the freshmen. Sixteen clubs set up their exhibits.

ActivitiesPista sa Nayon highlight Buwan ng WikaThis months celebration of Buwan ng Wika, with the theme Tatag ng Wikang Filipino, Lakas ng Pagka-Pilipino, is ushered in by the Pista sa Nayon held August 6, 2012, Monday, at the hallways of the Main Building, with the students preparing the food and decorating the place. By homeroom and break time, the hallways were transformed into a town-like place at fiesta time.

ONLI IN DA PILIPINS!: Sophomores showcase local delicacies in the Pista sa Nayon celebration launched by the Filipino Department.

ActivitiesFreshmen orientation include parents, guardians

As the government spearheads the implementation of the K-12 (Kinder to Grade 12) reform in the Philippine educational system, parents were gathered at the Seminar Hall on June 2, 2012 for the orientation on Ateneo freshmen education.

International programJapanese students visit Ateneo

In time for their summer break, students and teachers from the Japanese Jesuit high school Hiroshima Gakuin visited the Ateneo de Naga High School and immersed in ap-preciation of Phil-ippine culture and educational sys-tem last August 3-11, 2012.Also visiting places and welfare institutions in Manila, the Jap-anese contingent arrived in Naga City on August 3, with a tour of the campus and the city as initial activ-ity.

MariologyAdNU High receives hundreds of scapulars on Carmel feast

For the first time, the Ateneo de Naga High School community witnessed the mass in-vestiture of the Carmelite scapular on the feast day of Lady of Mount Carmel on July 16, 2012. In the short paraliturgy held in the Covered Courts during the Monday

assembly of the community, the scapulars were blessed as the community sang Mar-ian songs and prayed the Litany of the Lady of Mount Carmel.

Chinese StudiesHS welcomes new Mandarin teachersMr. Richard Lian Canxing from Fujian Province and Ms. Lily Lu Chunli from Shichuan Province, Mainland China are the new Mandarin mentors. They join the old team of Mandarin teachers. Mr. Lian and Ms. Lu teach 3rd year students.

ActivitiesSchola Brevis, Holy Spirit Mass opens academic year

The academic calendar for years 2012 and 2013 opened with the traditional and ceremonial Mass invoking the Holy Spirit and the presentation of the members of the academic community in the Schola Brevis on June 1, 2012 at the High School Covered Courts.

INSIDESTORY

BNZAI & MABUHAY!: Filipino host brothers and their Japanese guests pose against the background of the shy Mayon Volcano. The sojourn to Albay forms part of the 11-day annual Hiroshima Gakuin-Ateneo de Naga Mutual Exchange Program. The Japanese students were: Yuichi Izuhara, Yuki Yanagawa, Yoshimasa Hirata, Taka-hikoSatoh, Akihide Takami, Motoki Akiyama, Hayato Asakura, Fumiaki Kanda, Shun Yoshida, Kyohei Okazaki, Kanta Fujishima, Shuhei Muranaka, Takumi Hiasa, Kensei Hanaoka, and Yuta Inoue.

ActivitiesPersons for others marked founders feast day

As the Ateneo community and the rest of the Jesuit network in the world commemorated the feast day of St. Ignatius of Loyola, each showed the generosity of the founder in the series of worthwhile activities.Ateneans spent the

day being men and women for others by reaching out to other people, thus continuing the spiritual mission of the company of men started by Ignatius of Loyola in Ateneo de Naga High School.

SportsIntrams formally opened The schools year-long Intramurals formally started with a grandiose opening on July 13, 2012 at the Ateneo de Naga High School Covered Courts. The lively and charged opening rites commenced with the lighting of the Intramurals Torch by the relay race winners. Soon after the year-level cheer-and-dance competition followed. The recently concluded opening had TRENDING as central theme. Class team names, class T-shirt designs, and the class cheers and yells focused on the theme.

ActivitiesBikol Patroness visits AdNU High Despite the overcast sky threatening a heavy downpour, the Ateneo de Naga High School warmly welcomed its Queen, the Lady of Penafrancia, in the traditional Pagsungko (visit) on August 15, 2012, the feast day of the Ladys Assumption. The visit started with the images procession in the campus thoroughfare, followed by a Eucharistic celebration and class vigils in the school chapel.

Alumni AffairsAteneo mourns for its Son After a supposedly worthwhile four-day break from school work, the Ateneo de Naga community went back to school mourning for the loss of the great son, alumnus and epitomy of man for others, Interior Secretary and former Naga City mayor Jesse M. Robredo, who died in a plane crash off the coast of Masbate City, August 18, 2012. A procession and series of requiem masses were offered for the great Ateneans memory.

to school mourning for the loss of the great son, alumnus

ActivitiesMobile planetarium highlights Science Week

In celebration of the science week, The DGreat Rovers Event Management visited our campus and brought along their Mobile Planetarium. The mobile planetarium offered a lot of activities like film showing, photo rock exhibits, sun-spotting, telescope-viewing and hands-on activities that Ateneans enjoyed. The mobile planetarium aims to motivate students, teachers and the general public to take the first step towards astronomy awareness.

Jesuit EducationAdNU mentors join all-Ateneo confab in Zambo

Thirty-seven administrators, faculty and staff of the Ateneo de Naga High School joined the Second Basic Jesuit

Education Commission (JBEC) Congress held in Ateneo de Zamboanga on September 24-26. Dubbed as MindaNow: Re-imagining the Filiino Soul and Story. The participants toured the historical and scenic spot of the Latin City of the South. In the congress, the participants were exposed to the challenges in Mindanao. They also discussed pressing issues in Jesuit schools.

Mr.

Mel

john

R. T

atel

Mr.

Mel

john

R. T

atel

Mr.

Ric

hard

Lia

n

Mr.

Ric

hard

Lia

n

ChurchAdNU joins Year of Faith opening Members of the Naga Jesuit community and the university joined in the opening of the Year of Faith at the Naga Metropolitan Cathedral on October 11, 2012. The Year of Faith was declared by the Holy Father to commemorate the 50th year of the Vatical II Council and the 20th year of the Catechecism of the Church.

N U M B E R SSLICE OF THE PIE.

Here are the figures from the First Term of the 2012-2013

Academic Year.

1,575The total number of students in the Ateneo de Naga High

School for the Academic Year 2012-2013. The number ex-cludes those who dropped.

242The total number of students

who qualified for the Honor Roll - First Honors, Second Honors

& Honorable Mention.

283The total number of students who has at least one failure in

a subject or more.

8The number of subjects stu-

dents grapple with.

69The total number of teachers handling any of the 8 subjects

of all the students.

20%Percentage of the student body who are on scholarship which

may either be academic or financial aid.

ClubCollectors Club showcase Japanese, Marian collection In two separate exhibitions, the Collectors Club put on display some collectibles of the faculty, staff and students. Initially, the club put on display anything Japanese - dolls, utensils, mementoes , etc. In September the club exhibited the communitys images of Mary.

ActivitiesParents grace Career Awareness Week

To instill awareness among the students of the future career lying ahead of them, a number volunteer homeroom parents talked about their present job and work. The par-ents exposed the students to a career path they may pursue after 4 years in the Ateneo High School.

4 The Blue&Gold. June-October 2012

B&

GHE

ROES

B&

GHEROES

Mr.

Ric

hard

Lia

n

My Favorite Jesuits

My Favorite Jesuitsby Hon. Jesse M. Robredo

High School Class 74Mayor, Naga City

The Blue & Gold 1st Semester IssueAcademic Year 2009-2010

Fr. James OBrien was our Bikol Culture teacher. Even up to this day, I still wonder how and why he took on the subject. Of course, he knew it more than everybody else did. (He gave grades of 99% to those who knew the lessons by heart.) He taught me to know Bikol, love Bikol and return to Bikol when the right time comes. Never did I realize that I will be a disciple some-day. Father OBrien (OB for those who knew him well) who coached the Ateneo High School Basketball Varsity Team, conducted the try-outs for our class basketball team. Looking back, I realize now that I was short in talent, but I was rich in his encourage-ment. Everyone was good enough for him. Father OBs measure was different. Disci-pline and character first!

Fr. Jack Phelan was my confessor and counselor. He was not close to high school students. But Fr. Jack was the most approachable Jesuit priest I ever met. When I returned to Naga City, I decided to renew my ties with him. On many occasions, I asked him what his thoughts were on difficult matters related to my work as Mayor of the city. On almost all of them, I heeded him. Fr. Jack was always very subtle, very insightful and in no way imposing on his views. In gratitude, there was not anything that he asked for that we did not grant. All of them, of course, were little things for the Ateneans who sought his assistance in their schooling. He deserved having a building in his name even when he was still alive.

I met Fr. Raul J. Bonoan (Fr. Rolly to most of us) when I returned to Naga City. I have never seen somebody as passionate and as committed as Father Rolly. In a meet-ing with President Ramos, Fr. Rolly, who was an active member of the RDC, asked pointed questions which almost annoyed the President. To everyones surprise, Presi-dent Ramos invited Fr. Rolly to work for him after the meeting. It was good he refused. It would have been Ateneos loss. The last time I talked to him was when I was doing my MPA at Harvard University. He called me up and invited me to teach at the Ateneo. I told him I would when I get back. Unfortunately, he passed away before I returned. Naga City benefited from Fr. Rollys presence. Fr. Rolly was not only a thinker but a doer. Ateneo was never the same after he took over. We are fortunate that during the most difficult times for us in City Hall, Fr. Rolly was around. We were always certain that we were doing the right thing because he was behind us. We surely miss him.

I realize now that I was short in talent, but I was rich in his encouragement. Father OBriens measure was different. Discipline and character first!

Fr. James OBrien SJ

Fr. John Phelan SJ

Fr. Raul Bonoan SJP

hoto

cou

rtesy

of H

S T

rium

ph

In 2010 the Philippine Province of the Society of Jesus celebrated the 150th year of the orders return to the Philippine Islands since the Suppression in 1768. The Blue & Gold then featured in its first sememster issue of the historical highlights of the congregation in the Philippines. To shed light on the Jesuits stint in Bikol, the Blue & Gold picked Jesse Robredo, then city mayor, to share simple recollections of the Jesuits while he was a high school student in the Ateneo. B&G Staff Dominic Nobleza, who served as city youth official in the previous year, requested Mayor Jesse and the latter responded right away. The B&G reprints Jesse Robredos recollections.

Ihave heard many people thank the late Secretary Jesse Robredo through the Bikol ex-pression, Dios mabalos. In my native tongue, it literally means, God will return the favor. When one says Dios mabalos, however, one endeavors to do more than to ap-preciate the other. In a heart that overflows with gratitude, one responds by seeking to be the revelation of God to others.27 May 1958Jesse was born to Jose Chan Robredo and Marcelina Manalastas in Naga City.

1966Jesse entered Naga Parochial School (NPS) an became a distinguished chess player.

1986Jesse returned to Naga to become Program Director of the Bicol River Basin Development Program (BRBDP).

1980Jesse joined San Miguel Corporation.

1999Under his leadership, Naga was named one in Asiaweeks Most

Improved Cities.

1988Jesse defeated fellow Atenean Ramon Roco In the city mayoralty race. He became the youngest mayor at 29.

2001He was reelected as city mayor.

The Making of a Hero

Dios mabalos does not end in platitude, I pray that God return your good favor. It is an active commitment, I,through whom God is present, will return your good favor.

This highlights two things about Bikol culture: first, the inestimable importance of faith to the Bicolano such that Dios (God) is embedded in everyday language; second and more sig-nificantly, that gratitude, a value imperative to the Bicolano, is an active response founded on this faith.

Jesse Robredo, true to his Bikol heritage,

1970Jesse graduated from NPS. In the same year he joined Ateneo de Naga High School.

1972Jesse was a 3rd year high school boy when Martial Law was declared.

1974Jesse graduated from the Ateneo de Naga High School.

1979He obtained his degrees in Industrial

Management Engineering and Mechanical Engineering from De La

Salle University.

1998Ending his 3 terms as mayor,

he was accepted to Harvard Universitys John F. Kennedy

School of Government.

2000Jesse was awarded

the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Government

Service.

2010Ending his 2nd term, Jesse

was appointed Secretary of the Department of Interior & Local

Government.

2012His chartered plane crashed off the coast of Masbate City.

Ten Outstanding Young Men (TOYM)

1996

Ten Outstanding Young Persons (TOYP)

1996

Ten Outstanding

Ihave heard many people thank the late Secretary Jesse Robredo through the Bikol ex-Ihave heard many people thank the late Secretary Jesse Robredo through the Bikol ex-I Dios Mabalos, Jesse

Needless to say, the entire nation has shown gratitude in mourning the loss of a great man. But Dios mabalos requires the same humility that abandons our illusions of control.

showed all of us the power of this gratitude.

That he was always the first and last person on the streets of Naga amid the strongest of typhoons; that he painstakingly listened to ev-ery person who asked for his help regardless of socio-economic status; that he built genuine democratic institutions aimed at inclusion and participation in the citys legislative processes; that he unwaveringly supported many of our youth programs; that he was always there for us for the 18 fruitful years he was our mayor all these were because Mayor Jesse was

deeply thankful.

He was thankful for being elected to a privi-leged position where power does not rest in the hands of the leader to whom this power is merely bestowed; he regarded himself simply as a vessel of this grace of God.

His faith in God and his people further deep-ened and animated this gratitude: All are equal in Gods Love, hence all are deserving of his time. All are called to be agents of change and to be persons for others, hence no one is ever too young to do good. Power rests in

the hands of the people, hence all are called to speak up and partake in this exercise of power.

When he emptied his hands from flawed visions of self-entitlement that usually stem from power, and instead trusted in the goodness of his peo-ple, we in turn trusted him. This was the reason why he always won, and in several instances even ran uncontested as Naga Citys mayor.

In fact, so closely did we connect with him that every time we met him in youth events or saw him strolling along the plaza, my high school friends and I would endearingly call him Mayor tang Jesse (our Mayor Jesse).

Tsinelas leadership

Secretary Rene Alemendras was spot-on when he referred to our Mayor Jesses brand of lead-ership as tsinelas leadership. The metaphor beautifully illustrates the humility of wearing slippers worn by anyone regardless of social or economic status.

The same slippers that fruit and fish vendors wear at the Naga Wet and Dry Market, our May-or Jesse also wore as he unassumingly saun-tered around the Plaza Quince Martires talking to his beloved Nagueos without bodyguards. The same slippers he also took off as he walked barefoot, as he accompanied his In with fellow voyadores during the annual Traslacion Proces-sion at the Feast of Peafrancia.

All walk on the same ground; all are sons and daughters of the same Mother and the same Lord.

How then do we relay our gratitude to him who has given his entire self to us and has taught us so much?

We thank our Mayor Jesse by living and commit-ting to Dios mabalos, just as he had so greatly done in his lifetime.

Needless to say, the entire nation has shown gratitude in mourning the loss of a great man. But Dios mabalos requires the same humility that abandons our illusions of control.

It is an acceptance that not everything is in our hands whether it be in leadership, in life or in

death. Dios mabalos is a resignation and defer-ence to the reason and will of God that we will not always understand.

Dios mabalos is also the recognition that much to the same humility and gratitude that Jesse Robredo showed in his lifetime, The Kingdom is not only beyond our efforts, it is even beyond our vision./We accomplish in our lifetime only a fraction of the magnificent enterprise that is Gods Work.

As the Prayer of the martyred Oscar Romero of El Salvador so eloquently puts, We are proph-ets of a future not our own.

If there is one lesson our Mayor Jesse taught us, it is to be truly and deeply grateful. And as our hearts in turn are filled with love and gratitude over the life of our beloved Jesse, we respond by returning his good favor as we seek to be the light of God to others, and as we continue to build the future for the country he so steadfastly dreamt of.

Dios mabalos, our Mayor Jesse Robredo. By Kenneth Isaiah Abante, HS 08

Ramon Magsaysay Award for Government Service

2000

At Ateneo de Naga, Ro-bredo met two Jesuit priests

who made a tremendous impression on him. One was Fr. Jack Phelan , his father confessor. The other was

Fr. James OBrien, an Irish-American Jesuit who spent

his years in Bicol deepening the peoples love for their

region....

Among Ateneos lay teach-ers, Robredo remembers his English teacher Greg Abonal

for having taught not only English but, more important, the art of living. How clearly

Robredo recalls Abonals constant reminders: the

process is more important than what you learn. Grades, while important, are not your

life. Faith is important, as is honesty, and exams are a means not only to test what youve learned but to test your character as well.

(Excerpt from the 2000 Ramon Magsaysay Award souvenir programme)

Dangal ng Bayan Award 1990

At Ateneo I learned to deal with people and I learned to deal with the external environment.

My Memory ofJesse

MESSAGE FROM

MR. JUNE PAOLO ABRAZADOAteneo HS Class 2003

Aide de Camp of Sec. Jesse Robredo

I told myself not to post any com-ments and just let myself suffer in silence. But I just could not ignore anymore the people who are con-tinuously praying, hoping and wor-rying for my well being up to this moment.

Every time I see the remains of the plane on TV I always ask myself how can anyone possibly survive such disaster. The point of impact keeps on playing over and over on my mind and keeps me wondering why did I still manage to wake up inside the plane after such magnitude? I rarely have witnessed miracles in my life, but in this tragedy Ive seen series of miracles that led me to my survival that if only one of these circumstances was taken out or had turned otherwise there would be no one that could tell what really had happened in that flight. But unfortunately my survival even complicated the tragedy. Some media men who seemed very eager to break the news earlier aired unconfirmed rumors and hearsay reports about me such as jumping out of the plane and many other versions that I think impossible to happen speaking from the point of view of the actual person who experienced the accident. It further gave doubt and misconceptions to many people that gave opportunity to others to pry on the issue. I hope people should not take advantage of the accident to voice out their propaganda against the government and the PNP without giving respect to vic-tims of the tragedy. I also deeply condole with the family of Capt. Jessup Bahinting and Kshitiz Chand.

There is nothing to explain to those who criticize me like they have gone through

10 The Blue&Gold. June -October 2012

MR. GREG ABONALThird Year Moderator

Father James OBrien once told me Greg never ever love your students. I asked him why? He said Its hard to see them leave.

I can rattle off a string of stories about Jesse Robredo in high school, but let just this one suffice.

Jesse was in my 3A moderating class in 1972-1973. At that time, there was no Pistaym, no JS. The one big thing was Intramurals. Like today, every student was listed in an event. But unlike today, in the end year level champions in 1st Year and 2nd Year competed for the Junior Cham-pionships. Likewise, 3rd Year champions competed with 4th year champions for the Senior Championships. Also, varsity members could not compete in their events.

This 3A team name was the School of Nursing (decades before the university opened a real col-lege of nursing). This was a champion class the previous year. Among them were 7 basketball varsity potentials who had tried out with the varsity and had very good chances of being drafted. We prevailed upon them, however, not to join the varsity and play in the intrams instead. So we had a very good basketball team, as well as softball, volleyball, table tennis.

In the end, all our entries except table tennis singles won year level championships and were, therefore, scheduled for Senior Championships. Jesse Robredo was our chess contestant. He was ranged against 4A Ruel Nael who was not only campus champion many times over but had also been playing the chess circuits in Bicol. Incidentally, Ruel Nael graduated uncontested valedictorian of his class.

At the time and venue set for the chess finals, Ruel Nael did not show up for which Jesse Ro-bredo was declared champion. A few minutes later his classmates ran to me reporting that Ruel Nael arrived later and asked Jesse Robredo for the match, which Jesse Robredo granted. So I rushed to the venue and bawled him out. X#vmgr! Youre already champion, why did you agree to play still. Youll lose to this guy! His curt reply was,Marhay na yan, Sir, para fair (Its better

(continued on p.25)

that way, Sir, so its fair.) You know what happened? He drew with the regional champion! So both made gold medals.

Little did I know that that one line was going to define his character. All throughout, especially in his public service, it was constantly like that, FAIR. Never was he known for taking advan-tage of the upper hand. He always gave people a fair chance. In politics, he brought to City Hall even known oppositionists and gave them a fair chance to serve well. Despite strong recommendations for very good reasons to prohibit vending outside schools, Jesse Robredo chose alternatives just so these poor small time vendors would have even the littlest chance for livelihood. Despite complaints, he did not ban padyak to give padyak drivers a fair chance at honest work. Marhay na yan, Sir, para fair. That was Jesse Robredo. From the afternoon he said it nearly 40 years ago until that woeful August 18 day, that was Jesse Robredo, through and through.

ATTY. NELSON PARAISOFourth Year English Teacher

I handled Jesse Robredo in their 4th year in the Ateneo de Naga High School. I was their English teacher. English classes then were divided among speech, grammar and literature classes. Ateneans were grilled in training in communicating - written and spoken. We had small classes and fewer sections then.

Jesse, as I remember him, was an ordinary student. He was, in fact, not a standout among others. He never called attention to himself. He was not in the forefront of the activities. Short in stature, Jesse did not want to be in the limelight. He was the unassertive type. Jesse never called attention to himself. He was not competitive.

In my class, I am sure they learned many things as a group in the group projects I gave - like the magazine projects where everyone had the opportunity to write news and feature articles they wanted. They also did a lot of artworks. The students liked it because they stayed togeth-er overnight finishing the magazine. Jesse perhaps cemented his friendship with his friends.

I remember Jesse getting average grades in my English classes. But he was diligent - very dili-gent. He loved reading. I noticed it because I required oral book reports. It was a one-on-one reporting on the book read with me flipping the pages and asking questions.

In high school, Jesse was not a standout leader. The leaders then were the big boys. The tall ones who stood out normally led the rest. That was why it was a surprise for me and the rest of his classmates and batchmates when he ran for mayor of Naga City. It was a wait-and-see moment for most of us who knew him in high school, especially that he was groomed by this big politician. This big politician will do anything to ensure victory. It was when he defied the politician who groomed him that he showed his being a true Atenean.

At the time when he was the mayor, I remember defending one of his enemies in court. I cross-examined him. He never took it personally. The teacher-student rapport we invested in remained. He was even apologetic after the court hearings. He never seized to call me Sir. His respect for his teachers never seized.

What was in Ateneo education that made him the leader he was? The tough training in high school was one. First, it was then difficult to enter Ateneo. Surviving Ateneo in four years is tough. Another, - cohesiveness among friends and classmates made him the leader we know.

MR. VERNON DE LOS TRINOPhysical Education Teacher

I do not remember Jesse Robredo well in High School. But I am sure he was my student in Physical Education. I handled all PE classes before. I also taught English and History classes. Different from the accolades he has now, he was an ordinary boy. Mostly for teachers, the smartest or the worst students are mostly remembered.

One good memory I have of Jesse remains - he was into baseball then. We played baseball in what is now Dolan Building in the Ateneo Main Campus. He played baseball but most of the time cheered for his team mates. One afternoon, he was cheering for the big boy Belmonte, shouting, Sige, paaboton mo duman sa Burn Hall!. As he said it, I and Mr. Greg Abonal looked at each other laughing. The building is BURNS Hall.

Compiled by Aeron Geosh Gomez, Trisha Marie Rubio & Cecille San Buenaventura

Well cheer our men unto the end; Well cheer them as they fight

(Regnum Dei)

Well cheer our men unto the end; Well cheer them as they fight

Farewell, Jesse.

Mr. Herold Pelonio (HS04)

Bro. Sherwin Santos SJ Bro. Sherwin Santos SJ

Bro. Sherwin Santos SJ

Bro. Sherwin Santos SJ

Bro. Sherwin Santos SJ

Bro. Sherwin Santos SJ

Bro. Sherwin Santos SJ

Mr. Lian Canxing

Mr. Lian Canxing Bro. Sherwin Santos SJ

Mr. Herold Pelonio (HS04)

Mr. Herold Pelonio (HS04)

Mr. Herold Pelonio (HS04)

Mr. Herold Pelonio (HS04)

12 The Blue&Gold. June -October 2012 The Blue&Gold. June -October 2012 13

B&

GHE

ROES

B&

GHEROES

M O L D I N G MEN FOR OTHERS

B&

GHE

ROES

B&

GHEROES

Long ago, the whole world lived to-gether in harmony, then everything changed when evil and greed at-tackedOnly the real hero, master of his values could stop them, but when the world needed him most, he van-ished. A thousand years passed and I discovered the new real hero, an ordinary man named ________. And although his skills are great, he has a lot to learn before hes ready to save anyone. But I believe ________ can save the world.

You are not mistaken if you feel like these words are from a fa-mous anime hit series. They are indeed rephrased from Avatar: The Legend of Aang- something that teaches us that we could also be Avatars, extraordinary heroes of the now.

A year ago we Filipinos commemorated the 150th year of the Heroism of our National Hero, Jos Rizal, with the challenge of endeavoring ourselves to become heroes like him in the best ways we can. It seems that the air still smells of heroism until now, with the same challenge, but with greater heights. Not long ago, our beloved Ateneo alumnus and noble public servant Jesse Robredo proved way of becoming a hero, an avatar of the modern world, paving more until God had his flight redirected to Him. Even Pedro Calungsod is now a full-pledged saint- a hero for the Filipinos and for God.

But even as so innate heroism for one person maybe, there sure are still many factors that help him become and prove him a hero. Even as so the Avatar did not master the four elements without his masters, his friends, his dreams, principles, inspirations, advices and guidance from other people, and without the problems and adversities that he faced. We Ateneans are very capable of becoming heroes and avatars, with the disciplines we have, our own free will, and a good aid of our Jesuit Education.

Pages ago in this same publication, heroism of Rizal was highlighted, together with it was also given importance the roots of his being a hero- the societys conditions, his values, and his education- one we take pride in as well. The call for heroism in this modern age is a different approach than that of the before, nevertheless it will not become clich to know what leads and molds people to become heroes, for heroism remains heroism. We Ateneans are well known for the kind of educa-tion and formation we are given, and reliving them every once in a while will help us respond better to become heroes for the call of the present world.

Seeing God in everything. When we learn how to see the reality and find not only the comforts and leisure of the pain and misfortunes in life, but finding God in every little piece of our journey, we begin to realize and heed the call that awaits each and every one of us and act with full dedication

for Gods greater glory. The present world has so many things to see, but not all of which can be sighted and are sights to consider, yet when we see God in it, we find deeper sense and meaning, a clearer view of our mission and purpose in life.

Men and Women for others. Poverty is on the rise. Discrimination, corruption, abuse, and mis-lead paths along with it too. Gifted with our abilities and talents, we are very capable of doing something to make things right. With the aid of technology and social multimedia we can right wrongs not simply to correct, but also to evoke self-awareness and righteousness for ones doing, and to become better examples and pioneers of change, good leadership, and social justice. In the modern world, it is a challenge to break free from walls that keep us isolated from the rest. It is an arduous task to go outside our comfort zones and experience the real scene. A hero and man/woman for others is there, outside, in action. Heroes are servants. Servant leaders are heroes, not only serving but setting as a model for others to emulate. Servant leaders are men and women for others. Men and women for others are heroes.

Together with service, heroes and avatars also possess the conscience and responsibility for the things that they do. It is together with his actions that he takes in consideration the possible effects and consequences of the things that he does. A hero acts not only due to the call duty (that is carelessness, though, notably brave), but acts with full sense of direction and knowing. A hero acts and serves with the utmost spirit of Magis, and knowing that what he does is not only for himself, but for the greater good of others, and all the more for the greater glory of God.

We Ateneans are very privileged of having this Ateneo education and Jesuit formation because they are reasons to prove ourselves becoming heroes. Nonetheless it is not full guarantee that having these immediately qualifies us worthy of being heroes. Maybe, yes, but heroism lies not only on the virtues or education or the what-you-have of a person, but to how he uses what he has to become useful and be of service to others- anytime, anywhere, and at no extra cost.

Being an avatar, a hero may be indefinitely defined for we all have our own definitions and concepts, but knowing these definitions and having our backpacks filled and ready for use with our whole total being, we may, can, become, are, heroes of our scenes, heroes of the present, heroes of all time.

And I believe, _________(say your name) can save the world.

HEROIC LEADERSHIP

What training formula do the Jesuit mentors of worlds great men have? Chris Lowney, Jesuit-educated and an ex-Jesuit himself, describes how the Jesuits, in their 400 years of existence, tackle leadership using four great pil-lars:

SELF-AWARENESSThe leader understands who he is and deeply knows what he values. This understand-ing includes continuous self-reflection on ones strengths and weaknesses. To face ones weaknesses is to con-quer them. Thus the leader appreciates himself as tal-ented, ready to learn all the time and maneuver oneself in the sea of change.

INGENUITYThe leader approaches any problem with imagi-nation, creativity, adaptability and quick response. This way, the leader responds to new challenges and situations with a full heart and confidence. The leader becomes imaginative towards new approaches all the time because of two reasons: first, the leader has no fixation over anything, thus attachments or prejudgments never stop him to pursue new and innovative ideas; second, he is optimistic and always hopes that there is an opportunity and an avenue to tackle a problem.

LOVEUnlike the other leaders who invest on fear, the Ignatian-inspired leader invests on love. Away from the reward-punishment model, a leader following the example of St. Ignatius sees ev-ery individuals talent and potential to grow and eventually lead. While a self-serving leader sees subordinates as mechanical workers, an Ignatian leader sees a full human potential also capable of loving. Thus, the loving leader, through the cura personalis, provides support and full en-couragement. In effect, the group governed by love is marked by loyalty and mutual support.

HEROISMAn effective leader inspires others to achieve broader aims. The leaders followers are moti-vated towards heroic or meteoric undertaking.Fired by ingenuity and love, the leader inspires everyone to own the groups mission and is pro-pelled to model the groups virtues. by the lead-ers example, everybody in the group magnifies the groups undertaking. Thus, with love and in-genuity, everyone is driven by the magis - the drive to do more for the noble purpose.

The Blue&Gold. June -October 2012 15

By Rickdane Gomez

Adieu, Among

25 Nov 1935Msgr. Legaspi was born in Meycauayan, Bulacan to Enrique Legaspi and Luisa Zamora. He is 3rd of 10 children

1951After the war, he studied elementary at the Religious of the Virgin Mary-run St. Marys Academy. He completed secondary studies in 1951.

1971He was appointed first Filipino rector of the University of Santo Tomas Central Seminary & Rector, Magnificus of the Pontifical and Royal University of Sto. Tomas.

The Shepherd of the flock1952He joined the Dominicans and studied at the St. Albert Priory in Hong Kong.

1955Msgr. Legaspi completed his degree in Philisophy in the same priory.

1960He was ordained priest of the Dominican order at the Manila Cathedral

1962He completed his Licentiate in Sacred Theology (Magna Cum Laude) in 1961 from the Faculty of Sacred Theology of the University of Santo Tomas. In 1962, he was conferred Doctor of Sacred Theology (Magna Cum Laude).

1971He completed degrees in Educational Management at Harvard Graduate School of Business Administration.

Aug 1977He was ordained bishop on feast of St. Dominic de Guzman (Aug.8) at the Santo Domingo Church, Quezon City.

June 1977He was elected Titular Bishop of Elefantaria in Mauritania and auxiliary bishop of Manila in 30 June 1977

1983Msgr. Legaspi was

appointed by the Holy Father as the third

archbishop of Caceres, replacing his predecessor, Msgr. Teopisto Alberto DD.

Jan 1984He was installed in a solemn ceremony as the 33rd Ordinary and 3rd Archbishop of Caceres at the Naga Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint John the Evangelist on January 18, 1984

Sept 1984He was conferred the pallium

by Msgr. Bruno Torpigliani DD, Apostolic Nuncio, on

September 14, 1984

2011As he turned 75,

he announced his retirement from

episcopal duties.

Mr.

Her

old

Pel

onio

B&

GHE

ROES

B&

GHEROES

By Rickdane Gomez

The fullness of being a priest is becoming a bishop. These words echo through the walls of my mind as I recall my Religion teacher say these things in class. As a child

with a religious member in the family, I have always been fascinated remembering the names of the bishops in each suffragant dio-cese in Bicol, admiring the names, titles, col-orful and pleasantly embroidered vestments, long processionals, and all the clamor that go along with it. But of all the many people who religiously shepherds us people, I give my greatest tributary honors to no other than His Excellency, Archbishop emeritus Leonardo Z. Legaspi, OP. DD.

Appointed as Caceres thirty third bishop and the fourth archbishop in 1983, he has given his life to shepherding the flock. For the 28 years of genuine zeal and service to the flock, I take witness of the many remarkable contributions Caceres has ever experienced under this mans shepherding.

Recalling back to how Caceres was before, one can see the numerous changes and the great distance it has travelled now in the sands of time. Under his watch, the archdio-

cese grew larger, not specifically in land pe-riphery, but covering and reaching out more to the flocks needs. From 39 parishes then, the number had now grown to 75 parishes all throughout the archdioceses jurisdiction. Through the archbishops petition to Rome, the Prelature of Libmanan was born as a new ecclesiastical jurisdiction, which is now the Diocese of Libmanan under then-Ca-ceres Auxiliary Bishop Jose Rojas but now Libmanan Bishop Jose Rojas, DD.

As a Dominican noted for their teaching legacies, a former Catholic educator, the first Filpino Rector Magnificus of the Royal and Pontifical University of Sto. Tomas, he revital-ized catechesis and gave it much importance during his years.

He established the Caceres Catechetical Ministry which molds and trains catechists who help teach religious matters in public schools. Not only did he serve as an efficient leader for catechism in Caceres, he is also one of the notable persons who strength-ened and shaped catechetical instruction in the country, earning him the title Architect of Philippine Catechesis on our Time. As President of the Catholic Bishops Conference

of the Philippines (CBCP) and chairman of Episcopal Commission on Catechesis and Catholic Education (ECCE), they were able to design tools such as the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC), National Catechetical Directory of the Philippines (NCDP), and the Manual for Family Catechesis.

As archbishop, the laity was awakened to many of his pastoral letters which called for the need of understanding of many religious matters. Some of these letters were the Pas-toral Letter on the Peafrancia Celebration Towards the Year of Faith and Pastoral Letter on the Worthy Reception of Holy Commu-nion. He also wrote books like Katekismo Ki Ina and Light to All.

Much like Pope John Paul IIs hope for the youth, Among (as he is also called) also saw the great potential of the youth and with it he also established the Caceres Youth and Campus Ministry. Partnering with local Catho-lic schools like Universidad de Sta. Isabel and the Ateneo de Naga University, and other schools like Universidad de Nueva Caceres and Naga College Foundation and other non-sectarian ones, youth involvement in the archdiocese was eminently seen through

youth encounters, vigils, and in the Marian Youth Congress (MYC). School partnerships were also fortified through the Bicol Asso-ciation of Catholic Schools Meeting (BACS MEET) and the Catholic Education Associa-tion of Caceres and Libmanan (CEACAL).

Remarkable institutions and edifices also rose under his jurisdiction. There are now 34 religious congregations for women and 8 congregations for men in the archdiocese. Caceres has become a haven for religious and apostolate calling, a wharf for charitable acts, giving homes to the homeless, elderly, orphaned, abused, abandoned, disabled, the sick and dying. Retreat ministries, pre-school education and non-formal education, and livelihood promotion were also given importance.

Churches like the Basilica Minore, the Pe-afrancia Shrine, Naga Metropolitan Cathe-dral, Archbishops Palace, and other religious edifices were also kept well and sound. The magnificent Quadricentennial Arch and Porta Mariae are also a great milestones for Caceres.

It should also be taken note that through the archbishop, the Church of Nuestra Seora de Peafrancia was given the title Basilica Minore from Rome.

Archbishop Legaspi, a faithful devotee and living witness of the Ladys miracle, has thor-oughly devoted his life to God and to his Ina, our Ina, Our Lady of Peafrancia. By birth he is not a Bicolano, but through Ina he lived as a Bicolano and strived well to preserve the fervor devotion to the Lady and even deepen our faith through many revisions, implementations, and actions. Together with the local government of Naga, the Peafran-cia festivities were solemnized. Fussy public figures were given very little prominence, voyadores underwent seminars and proper briefing and orientation. The andas was stra-tegically changed so as to inhibit the scenes wherein Ina is almost stripped off her manto due to the rowdy gestures of the voyadores. The original image was also ought to be preserved through the use of the replica during Traslacion. Certain intrigues came up when the Church publicly criticized the rising commercialization of the Peafrancia festivities therefore losing its real essence. The archbishop asked the local government

to limit the nine-day novena for the religious devotions and have other civic activities like pageants and concerts out of the said dates. The use of the brand Peafrancia for gay pageants and the like were also abolished together with many street parties and beer fests. In the end these efforts were effec-tive, pleasing, and brought out better results, directing the flock to the real essence and values that should have been discerned by each one of us.

A whole spread may never suffice to fill all the noble and great achievements Archbishop Legaspi has led during his years of service. I do believe the title of Emeritus does not put his service to a cease. His retirement may had come, his new successor may have arrived, but his genuine work of love will unceasingly continue with Gods grace, and so will we.

Archbishop Rolando J. Tria Tirona will con-tinue the mission of fostering and shepherd-ing us, and it is with great hope that Caceres and each and every one of us will continue to grow, reach out, and deepen in faith and Gods love, and that we too may all leave our footprints in the sands of time.

I thank the Lord and Ina for this blessing. During those years, the shape of the Church in Bicol has changed: more vibrant, more united, and clearly faith directed.

Msgr. Leonardo Legaspi, O.P. D.D. is fondly called Among by the clergy of Caceres. Now as he becomes bishop-emeritus and as he leaves his post in the local Church, he sets down footprints in the sands of Caceres, placing him among the champions of the Faith in one of the oldest dioceses and bastions of Catholicism in the Philippines.

His genuine work of love

will unceasingly continue with

Gods grace, and so will we.

CThe BISHOPSREGALIA

MITRAMiter. This tall folding cap, consisting of pointed front and back with two short lappets is the traditional, ceremonial head-dress of bishops.

ZUCCHETTOSkull Cap. Italian for small pumpkin, the skull cap used to be worn by all clerics. It accompanies the miter and the beret. Its original purpose was to warm the tonsured head of clerics.

BACULOCrozier or Pastoral Staff. This stylized staff shaped like that of a shepherds is the symbol of authority or governing office. In a diocese, the bishop is the Good Shepherd of the flock.

EPISCOPAL RINGSymbolizing the bishops authority and bond to the diocese, the ecclesiastical ring traditionally bears the bishops coat of arms. Before the ring imprints the bishops seal in wax. In reverence, the ring is kissed by the faithful.

PALLIUMThe Y-shaped ecclesiastical vestment was originally worn only by the Pope, but is now bestowed by him on metropolitans or archbishops as a symbol of the jurisdiction.

BIRETTABeret. The biretta was worn by all ranks of the clergy from cardinals to priests, deacons and seminarians. This varies in color according to the rank in the Church. The Pope wears the red camauro (Santa cap-like head gear) instead of biretta.

CRUX PECTORALIS Pectoral cross. This stylized cross is worn on the chest, usually suspended from the neck by a cord or chain. Pectoral cross is also a symbol of authority and indicator of governing office.

The New Shepherd of theFlock

herishing the 28 rich-filled years in building and nurturing the Kingdom of God under the archbishop-emeritus, the Caceres welcomes Bishop Rolando Tirona, O.C.D., D.D., the 34th Ordinary and fourth Archbishop of the see of Caceres.

Gone are the days of fervently waiting by people most especially those involved in religious voca-tions for the successor of Most Rev. Legaspi who had filed his resignation to the Pope two years ago. The appointment of Bishop Rolando Octavus Joven Tria Tirona by Pope Benedict XVI actually coincided with the day Virgin Mary was born, September 8, 2012, when Bicolanos were as well at the height of preparation for the then forthcoming Peafrancia Celebration.

Many, if not all, started exploring who he is behind his name. One thing in his life that would often grab attention from people is his childhood. It appears to be a miracle that he became a priest. Being the youngest among eight siblings, he was often tagged the black sheep in the family by his teachers. Ironically, his palms which would often be whipped by his teachers for some reason were the palms the same teachers sheepishly came to kiss. This suggests that one really does not know what will happen in the time to come. For the people who know him since he was a young boy, the child-hood experiences of Bishop Tirona alone make it unexpected and nearly impossible for him to be a priest. No wonder that God really works in marvelous ways.

Archbishop-designate Tria Tirona was born in Kawit, Cavite, on July 22, 1946, and completed his basic education (grade school and high school) at Centro Escolar University (CEU). In college, he went to the Benedictine-owned San Beda Collge for his degree in Political Science. He earned his degree in Philosophy at San Carlos Seminary in Makati. He joined the Order of Discalced Carmelites thereafter and finished

Theology at the Carmelite Monastery in Haifa, Israel.

1974 in Rome, Msgr. Tirona was ordained priest after his further studies at the Collegio Internazio-nale Carmelitani Scalzi or the Teresianum. And after completing his Licentiate in Sacred Theology at Institutio di Spiritualita in 1975, Tirona returned to the Philippines to take key posts in the Car-melite-run institutions in Manila and Davao. He became the Carmelite superior in the Philippines in 1992-1994. He rose to the ranks in the Church hierarchy when he was ordained bishop in 1994 at the Manila Cathedral, becoming Auxilliary Bishop of Manila. In 1997, he was appointed Bishop of Malolos and in 2003 the pope placed him as bishop of the prelature of Infanta, Quezon.

Succinctness when it comes to his homily is what really defines Bishop Tirona. Having been a priest and bishop to a number of dioceses in the country, he urges that a short homily moves the heart while a long homily moves the chairs. His efforts in working his mission as a bishop and as a priest in continuing what our Lord has started are under-pinned by his motto in life, Christi Sumus We belong to Christ.

The Archdiocese overflows with joy and gratitude to the bishop who was untiringly creating effec-tive efforts in bringing the people close to God as he continues the mission of Christ. But sorrow becomes inevitable. Transition does not affect what we have become and what we will become. As we receive our new bishop, Bishop Tirona, with exuberance and hope-filled hearts and as Most Rev. Legaspi departs, let then be our prayers go with both of them.

The Order of Discalced Car-melites is a reform movement within the older Carmelite or-der. It was established in 1593 in Spain under the leadership of St. Teresa of Avila and St. John of the Cross. The break-away branch sought to follow the stricter eremitic tradition of the early desert hermits in Mt. Carmel in Israel. The Dis-calced Carmelites came to the Philippines in 1947. The first group of friars came from the Province of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, in Washington. The Carmelite monastery of nuns in Naga was established in 1949. The order produced famous saints such as St. Therese of the Child Jesus, St. Teresa of the Andes, St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Jewish NAZI victim, Edith Stein).

CARMELITES

Meet the new spiritual leader of the four-centuries-old Faith in this part of the archipelago. The new caretaker has brimming background and experience to lead the faithful of Caceres in another chapter of history.

Mr.

Mel

john

Tat

el

18 The Blue&Gold. June -October 2012 The Blue&Gold. June -October 2012 19

B&

GHE

ROES

B&

GHEROES

By Emerson Borja & Christian lloyd Bertumen

The Bishops of Caceres

Luis Maldonado OFM 1595-15961595-15961595-1596

Francisco Ortega OSA 1599-1602

Baltazar de Cobarrubias OSA1603-1605

Pedro Godinez OFM 1605-1608

Pedro Matias 1612-1613

Diego Guevara OSA 1614-1621

Luis de Caizares OM 1624-1626

Francisco Zamudio OSA 1628-1639

Nicolas de Zaldivar OSA 1644-1646

Antonio de San Gregorio OFM 1659-1661

Andres Gonzalez OP 1685-1709

Domingo de Valencia 1718-1719

Felipe Molina 1724-1738

Ysidoro de Arevalo 1740-1751

Manuel Matos OFM 1754-1765

Antonio de Luna OFM 1668-1773

Andres de Echeandia M 1675-1777

Francisco Maceira OFM 1777-1778

Juan Orbigo OFM 1778-1788

Domingo Collantes OP 1788-1808

Bernardo de la Concepcion OFM 1836-1839

Juan Antonio Lilio OFM 1833-1840

Vicente Barreiro OSA 1846-1848

Manuel Grijalvo OSA 1848-1861

Francisco Gainza OP 1862-1879

Casimiro Herrero OSA 1880-1886

Arsenio Ocampo Monasterio OSA 1887-1903

Jorge Barlin 1905-1909

John Bernard McGinley 1910-1924

Francisco Reyes 1925-1937

Pedro Santos 1938-1965

Teopisto Alberto 1965-1983

Leonardo Legaspi OP 1983-2012

Rolando Octavus Tirona OCD 2012

OFM - Franciscans (Order of Franciscan Minors) OSA - Augustinians (Order of St. Augustine) OM - Minimi (Order of Minims) OP - Dominicans (Order of Preachers) M - Mercedarian OCD - Order of Discalced CarmelitesNames and Pictures Courtesy of the Caceres Archbishops Palace

KEEN ABOUT

KENWhat keeps the three-time valedictorian and recipient of Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines (TOSP) 2012 award on fire? This Knight-and-Eagle hybrid pours out his heart on his ascent to fame while keeping both his feet firmly planted on the ground.

The BLUE&GOLD asked questions to Kenneth Isaiah Ibasco Abante, the Ateneo de Naga High School Class 2008 Valedictorian and Pillars Awardee (consistently No.1 in the batch in four years). Former mentors in the High School disclose of his mastery of everything: intellectual prowess, oozing talent in singing and dancing, good looks, compas-sionate heart for the needy, and a bundle of energy to juggle all sundry tasks. Also hailed as collegiate valedictorian of the Ateneo de Manila University, he now works as Executive Assistant to the Secretary of Finance.

B&G: How did you make it to the list of the Ten Outstanding Stu-dents of the Philippines?KEN: The TOSP screening committee from the Ateneo de Manila Uni-versity nominates three Ateneo students one from the Med School, one from the Law School and one from the Loyola Schools (college level). After the nomination stage, an independent screening committee

spearheaded by the RFM Foundation picks 20 to qualify for the NCR regional finals (and 20 each from all the other regions). From the 20 NCR national finalists, ten are chosen to go to Nationals.

These shortlisted finalists then resubmit their bidbooks, applications and materials to be part of the thirty national finalists. Out of these thirty, there is another round of inter-views and selections that result to the final list of the Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines.

You may see more information about the history of the search here: http://tospac.org/about-the-tosp-search

B&G: How did the Ateneo help you be-come the man that you are now? KEN: My eight years in Ateneo taught me how to discern in an Ignatian way: to be able to listen to Gods movements in my life and my society and use these to make the most loving and life-giving decision possible.

My four-year high school experience in Ateneo de Naga helped me understand where it was I was good. My high school teachers pushed me out of the shell of my insecurities, to understand that it is possible to be good at something one loves doing.

And it is only in doing something that one loves that he serves his community with the fullness of his dignity. I found out through my teachers, who have been great examples, that it is possible as well for me to serve my community.

My college experience at the Ateneo de Manila further grounded me to the reality of poverty and the larger social situation. It was here that I learned that it is possible to serve the poor in any course and in any profession. It broadened my horizons, and deepened my faith. This faith and commitment in God I learned is the best basis of decisions.

B&G: Were you ever guided by a motto, principle or philosophy?KEN: First, excellence is futile if it isnt an excellence for service. Walang kuwenta ang pag-aaral ng mga kurso, pagbabasa ng mga libro o pagtatrabaho kung hindi ito para sa ibang tao.

Second, one lives life by daring to fail. Mangahas kang mabigo.

Hinding-hindi dapat mahiya ang mga taong nangahas na sumubok at nabigo; sila ang pinakamatagumpay na tao sa mundo. Higit silang matagumpay sa sinumang naduwag at hindi man lang sumubok, o sa sinumang binaba ang matayog na pangarap sa pagna-nais na umiwas sa mahirap na landas.

Third, one should fix ones gaze on God, lest one stray from the path of truth.

B&G: What were the challenges that you faced during your college life in the Ateneo de Manila?

I faced many challenges: one was making sure that I had enough to spend everyday. Had it not been for my academic scholarship, I would not have been able to fully afford going to the Ateneo de Manila for college. But with the generosity of my parents, my benefactors and my friends, we were able to make ends meet.

The second challenge albeit temporary, was my struggle with humility and pride: to accept that I was ordinary in the face of extraordinary students from all over the Phil-ippines. But on the other hand, that humility isnt about the self emphasizing weaknesses and downplaying strengths, but admitting weaknesses and leveraging on strengths.

The greatest challenge, however, was convincing my parents to allow me to go to government despite hefty corporate offers. After many phone calls, dialogues, tears, and an 8-page single-spaced letter to them, I was able to convince them that I was dead set in my chosen job.

TOP OF THE CLASS: Ken Abante (front row, 4th from left) with other nine finalists of Top Ten Students of the Philippines at the Malacanan Palace.

B&G: What is your dream that you plan to fulfill?KEN: My dream is a zero-corruption govern-ment that attracts more young people and generates hope because it is just and has preferential option for the poor and marginal-ized.

There is a lot of hope in government. With an administration that has declared zero-tolerance on corruption, there is definitely every reason to hope for better. I believe in this government that has brought us closer to peace in Mindanao and unprecedented eco-nomic growth and development, with analysts declaring that the countrys vibrant perfor-mance is like an emerging tigers. I believe in this government that has filed more tax cases and administrative cases in two and a half years than all the five years of the previous administration. I believe in this government.

My dream is to give people more reasons to expect better from their government and from their country. In this way, more young people who have a healthy sense of doubt

and a lot of good intentions, will infuse new energy to serving the people through the civil service.

B&G: What are you most thankful of?KEN:I assume the question is made in the context of the recent award. But awards and recognition are just a bonus of doing what I can in the service of others. Lahat ng ito ay bonus, regalo, biyaya. (After meeting the 21 other regional finalists, it was just an honor to have just been selected finalist.)

I think there is a beautiful paradox revealed in being named one of the Ten Outstand-ing Students of the Philippines: for who am I really but a student who stands out because I am the combined effort of everyone Ive ever met? The community that I fell in love with, that has transformed me, is really what changed me radically. Paradoxically, this honor is more to them, for them and because of them, rather than for me. There is no out-standing student if there is no community

that he stands out from, a community that has nurtured him. I am definitely not the well that gives, but the bucket that receives.

While fundamentally after the award I still am the same person singing Salbakuta songs in the showers and corridors, the award for me is a reminder to stay true to who I am, while improving myself in service, wherever God calls me to go. The award, according to the TOSP community, isnt just because of what we have done, but what we are capable of doing. I pray that with the grace of God I can realize this potential in my lifetime.

What is gratitude but the only possible response after having realized that we are from nothing, yet we receive everything in Gods Love? In failure we are humbled and reminded that we are loved by God, with a Love that overflows without condition, that seeks not whether we deserve this Love or not.

One should learn that gratitude is always two-pronged: it is an expression and a com-mitment.

One lives life by daring to fail. Mangahas kang mab-igo. Hinding-hindi dapat mahiya ang mga taong nangahas na sumubok at nabigo; sila ang pinaka-matagumpay na tao sa mundo.

20 The Blue&Gold. June-October 2012 The Blue&Gold. June -October 2012 21

B&

GHE

ROES

B&

GHEROES

(continued on p.30)

Correspondence with Trisha Marie Rubio

TheBULL The Tale of Two Victims

YPuksaanpuksaan. are one of the few things overheard in the certain ght caused by some misunderstanding or some sort that sometimes result to physical harm and psychological detriments.

San Pedro CalungsodYoung Migrant, Student, Catechist, Missionary,

Faithful friend & Martyr

Jesuit missionary Diego Lus de San Vi-tores beatification in 1985 brought the memory of Pedro Calungsod to our day. On 5 March 2000, Pope John Paul II be-atified Pedro Calungsod at Saint Peters

Square in Rome. Recently, the Vatican canonized Saint Pedro Calungsod of Cebu on 21 October 2012. Saint Pedro Calungsod is now the second Filipino Catholic saint following Saint Lorenzo Ruiz of Binondo, Manila.

Pedro was a young na-tive of the Visayas region of the Philippines. Very little is known about him prior to his missionary work and death. He was just one of the boy catechists who went with some Spanish Jesuit missionaries from the Philippines to the Ladrones Islands in the western Pacific in 1668 to evangelize the Chamorros. The islands were renamed Marianas by the missionaries in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary and of the Queen Regent of Spain, Mara Ana, who was the benefactress of that Mission.

The hatred of the missionaries was caused by a propagan-da of a Chinese merchant, Choco, who started to spread the talk that the baptismal water of the missionaries was poison-

ous, causing the death of many of the natives infants. Incidentally, the baptized infants died earlier.

The assault occured in April 2,1672, when Padre Diego and Pedro sought to baptize the ill daughter of Matapang, a baptized native, who refused the rites. Determined to kill the missionaries, Matapang speared Pedro and another native. Hirao, finished Pedro with a swords blow on the head. Matapang snatched Padre Diegos crucifix and pounded it with a stone. Padre Diego was murdered right after. Both bodies of Padre Diego and Pedro were tied with large stones and thrown into the deep sea. The remains of the martyrs were never to be found again.

When the companion missionaries of Pedro learned of his death, they exclaimed, For-tunate youth! How well rewarded his four years of persevering service to God in the dif-ficult Mission are: he has become the precursor of our superior, Padre Diego, in Heaven! They remembered Pedro to be a boy with very good dispositions, a virtuous catechist, a faithful assistant, and a good Catholic whose perseverance in the Faith even to the point of martyrdom proved him to be a good soldier of Christ.

By Michael Real

22 The Blue&Gold. June-October 2012 The Blue&Gold. June-October 2012 23

B&

GHE

ROES

B&

GHEROES

PALM BRANCH. The expect-ant Jews waved palm fronds on Jesus entry to Jerusalen on Passion Sunday. This is the generic symbol for any martyr.

LILY. The lily symbolizes purity. This is normally associ-ated with virgin saints. It also symbolizes the Virgin Mary. Thie lily, if portrayed among thorns, sybolizes the immacu-late conception of Mary.

SKULL. This symbolizes mor-tality. When under the cross, the symbol evokes Christs triumph over death. Most Spanish depiction of saints has a skull for it was custom-ary for monks to meditate on ones death in front of a skull.

Path to SainthoodThe Vaticans Congre-gation for the Causes of Saints prescribes four stages before a person becomes part of the canon or official list of saints or he-roes of the Catholic Church:

1. SERVANT of GOD. Before a candidate is declared Servant, a body promoting the cause is formed to gather data and investigate on the virtues of the candidate. A detailed biography is written and forwarded to Rome. Relics are taken and the body is exhumed. This is allowed ve years after the death of the candidate. Exceptions are John Paul II, Mother Teresa and Lucia dos Santos, Fatima visionary.

2. VENERABLE. After enough information has been gathered, Rome declares the candidate Venerable if proven to have lived a life of Christian virtues of faith, hope and charity to a heroic degree. Prayer cards are printed to encourage the faithful to pray for miracle.

3. BLESSED. The candidate is declared Blessed in the beatification. This means the candidates sanctity is worthy of belief and that he or she is in heaven. The candi-date is assigned a feast day but celebrated only in the diocese of origin. Churches may be dedicated or named after the would-be saint.

4. SAINT. To be canonized or to be officially listed among the recognized saints by the Holy Father, the candidate must perform at least three miracles. The feast day is allowed to be celebrated anywhere in the Catholic Church.

HEAVENLY FACE: Saint Pedro Calungsod who died 340 years ago left no extant engraving nor paintings. The portrait of the boy saint unvailed in Rome was based on a commissioned painting by Fr. Catalino Arevalo SJ for his book published in 1998. It was painted by Rafael del Casal. It was modeled after Ronald Tubid, now a professional PBA cager and former varsitarian of the University of the East. Having Tubid as close representation of the martyr in the book came as a divine inspiration while Fr. Arevalo was watching a UAAP basketball game. Like the saint, Tubid is from Iloilo in the Visayas.

IconographyEvery saint has a story and a reason lead-ing to an exemplary life. Symbols normaly tell these stories. Since artists may repre-sent the saints in similar physical features, attributes or emblems are used to distinctly identify a saint from the other. Some ge-neric symbols:

As we roam about the different parts of this world, it is now hard to guarantee safety and protec-tion. In any place that we go, there is always this fear that we ourselves would suffer from the pains that life may bring us. Even to that in schools where parents entrust their children to the second guardians, the school itself, that as their children go to school they feel that their children will not encounter any acts that would inhibit the self-growth of their children. In this context, we can hear over the news reports about students who are suffering from bully-ing in schools, either pivate or not. With this in mind, bullying, indeed, had crawled its way up even to this culture that we Filipinos have be-fore, and it had inculturated itself to the mod-ern times where we are living at.

Agta man baga yan and other more related statements are now overheard over the cor-ridors of the so-called rooms of learnings. Hiding behind them are promptings for some fights or other matters that would either result to fights or exchange of vulgar or highly-de-grading words. In line with this, bullying then is an act that does not only involve the physical aspect of the persons involved but also to the totality of the person. Here, we can clearly see that different forms of bullying have now been rising in our society. Such are highly affecting the life or performance of a person in his life. These forms are somewhat things unknown but are discovered when one realizes that what he has already been doing.

As we situate ouselves over this topic, bullying

By John Paul Sabio

would come in many forms, verbally, physici-cally, or even sexually. This then implies to us as we go to any place, things unexpected may still happen to us.Commonly, physical bullying is one of the major kinds that involves body contact between two opposinging persons. Aside from this, one kind that we can see in our surroundings is that of the common verbal bullying which is present when people speak of things or insults to certain person. There are still other forms of bullying and all of them lead to a two-fold path which directs both par-ties into one common area, that is their per-sonhood as a whole.

Research says that bullying can affect the psy-chological aspect of a person which applies to both the bully and the victim. Here we can see that there are instances in which traumatic ex-periences would lead to a negative change on the victim. Like that of not wanting to to go to school already or being a person who is now afraid to socialize or mingle with other people. In another view, if we would look at the buly, ef-fects can also be see through his personhood. Here, he may either feel that he already has the power to repeat all the things all over again since he knows that everyone would now be afraid of him and that would not only affect his present situation but also it would play a big role in his developmenatal process. Consider-ing these, both parties would suffer from the detrimental effects of this bullying acts.

As we gaze upon the components of bully-ing, causes of it come in various forms. Some could eiher be a racial discrimination or just a simple misunderstanding that created a dom-

ino efect on the things tha have direct contact with it. This bullying would choice no one; for anyone who can be silent today may become a victim or bully in the near future because who knows one may change his ways in the nearest possible time. Here, we should take note that the victim is not the sole stakeholder in bullying because even the bully is one too. It is because a bully tends to be one because of several factors. One of them is to capture at-tention because this person is attention deficit; thus, causing him to do a certain act of bully-ing. This then may be a result from lackness of friends or a broken family or parents who lack support to their children. In another view, a bully could also be formed because he wants to gain authority over others for he want to be respected and hailed over by others and for him to be feared of. Considering all of these, both the bully and the victim are much affected by this bullying.

Bullying is a form of violence. It may attack silently when one is not aware of it or it may act with a blow of hands. In this world we are living at,all of us are ganted the right to be free but we must take into action that we must use it propely in the right way and not for violence. For this act acts as an instrument of degrada-tion for ones personhood, even though one is a bully or a victim. In this particular scenario we must all be mindful that we must stand strong no matter what things we may encoun-ter in life. With this, consider bullying as a chal-lenge, a challenge to eradicate it and promote a better way to express ones emotions to oth-ers and not on a manner where ones dignity is at ones hand.

TheBULL

Fel P

ayte

Communication is a double-edged sword - it can harm or boost life. It remains double-edged in any medium, even in the cyber-

space. What implications will the Cyber Crime Law have on student life?

Cyberspace: It is a world where new and fresh ideas surface - world where

interpersonal relationship has been defined by clicks of the mouse; a world crunching the globe into a small sphere when people connect; a world where anonymity is a safeguard. Cyberspace has since been equated to being free in doing anything one wants. Worse, it has become a breeding ground for new wave of criminals. This is the reason why lawmakers decided that it was best to pass the Republic Act No. 10175 or The Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012. This law will protect us from anyone who would do harm to us via digital means. But this said law also threatens to take away our freedom of speech in the world wide web. Thus, this said law was dubbed as the cyber martial law. The law, in its spirit, has good points. But there are also points in the said law which cannot be overlooked. Here is a list of the laws scary parts.

It only wants nice things If you hap-pen to use the social media such as Face-book, Twitter, Tumblr etc. as a medium for all of your anger to, lets say, a government offi-cial, then you can consider yourself a criminal answerable to this law. If you, for example, tweeted something about your local elected officer being a womanizer, and he pays more attention to these women than to his own job, then consider yourself a cybercriminal. That could be classified as libel, which is defined in the Revised Penal Code as the public and malicious imputation of a crime, or of a vice or defect, real or imaginary, or any act, omission, condition, status, or circumstance tending to cause the dishonor, discredit, or contempt of a natural or juridical person... Take note of the part wherein it mentions real or imaginary. It means that whether you bring the truth or just trash lies, youre still a cybercriminal.

Its a time traveler - under the Cyber-crime Prevention Act of 2012 the so-called victims and their lawyers could argue in court that old libelous posts [that are still live today can be charged with online libel. Because it could mean by keeping it there today, youre still publishing it now. So if you posted something that can be considered as a libelous act before the idea of the law even existed, then the law will look at you as a cybercriminal.

Like something and youre in big trouble - Those who play a part in unwit-tingly or willfully encouraging the spread of libelous content shall be charged for abetting libel. So the basic act of liking or retweet-ing posts that contain libelous contents is already considered a criminal act based on this said law.You cant be smart enough Even saying things in an ironical, sarcastical or metaphori-cal way could be considered as libelous. You dont have to directly say to a person that s/he is a lying crook to get sued for libel. Its enough to say it in a sarcastical way, as long as you do it in a public manner like posting it in the internet.

It has ridiculous penalties If you get sued for online libel, you may spend a maximum of 12 years behind the bars, and/or pay a ridiculous amount of 1 million pesos . So either waste twelve years of your life, just because you liked an Anti-government page or waste a million pesos that could supply you for many days.

The law isnt really that bad. It actually has some good points since it promotes safety in the cyberspace. The only problem about the law is its misarticulation. If only the law would be revised, then maybe the said law wouldnt be that bad. But of course, the said law would not be implemented if we were law-abiding netizens.

This law will protect us from anyone who would do harm to us via digital means. But this law also threatens to take away our freedom of speech in the world wide web. Thus, this said law was dubbed as the cyber martial law.

CRIME IN THE

CYBERS P A C E

B&

GHE

ROES

B&

GHEROES

the same ordeal. I hate myself more than they hate me. I un-derstand why they dont even consider the injuries I had suf-fered after the crash and the trauma it had brought me that continuously haunts me until this very moment. The bottom line question is why Sec. Jesse Robredo did not make it and yet I survived. It is a mortal sin for an Aide no matter how im-possible I could have done any better given the unfavorable circumstances. I was very willing and prepared to give my life for Sir Jess. When I accepted the job as his aide I knew very well my responsibility and the things I should sacrifice without any mental reservation, that includes my life. All aide and security officers follow the same code of honor. None of us dream of outliving our VIP especially on our watch. I was always prepared to take bullets to protect the Good Secretary and ready to leave my family with nothing but pride and honor. How I hated fate for not giving me the chance to give it so that the person I swore to protect should have lived. Sometimes fate do put us in situations out of our hands that trainings and experience will never be the basis for our reaction. I had encountered several near-death experiences in my life but none of them prepared me for such tragedy.

I thank everybody who supported and gave me inspiration to move on most especially the Robredo and Bondoc Family. Despite having failed them for not bringing home Sir Jess alive they themselves are the ones who defended me from the negative specu-lations and false information being aired by the media and even took care of me at the hospital. Mam Leni, Aika, Tricia, Jilian, to the family and close friends of Sir Jess, though I still feel ashamed, my family and I deeply thank you. To my family, relatives, friends, Lakans, classmates, high school batch, and to the ones whom I dont even know but understood my suffering and defended me, thank you all for the comfort and full support. To Mr. Joseph Delfin Beldaboy, the fisherman who took the courage to go the crash site despite of the prohibitions not to go near the plane because of the dan-gers that it could have brought, I owe you my life when you came just on time before I could have drowned and saved me. Im sure we will see each other again and I will thank you formally. To the first responders of Masbate PNP, Fire, Coast Guards, Local officials and fishermen, and the reinforcements from national and local government and private sectors especially the ones who painstakingly endured the dangers of the sea and risked their lives just to bring back home the remains of the victims to their families, I salute each and everyone of you sir/maam. Though I survived, it still gave me a feeling of relief that if I was not able wake up after the crash my body will still be found. To the doctors who took care of me and my hospital needs in Masbate, Manila and Crame, thank you sir and maam for your warm accommodation. How I wish I could thank all of you personally. The first week after the crash I wished I should have never waken up in that plane and things could have been easier for everybody, but all of you made me realize that there is more in life to live for, especially having my wife and our new born baby.

Sir Jess, I know you are looking down upon us from your rightful place in the heaven with