Wednesday 20 June 2012

Attention!








"UNDER MAINTENANCE"

Did you know that…?

· The narrowest strait in the world is found in the Philippines. San Juanico Strait is only 2 kilometers (1.2 ml) wide.

· The blood of a lobster is blue.

· In Reykjavik, Iceland, it is a crime to own a pet dog.

· To prevent crying while cutting onions, chew gum.

· Lachanophobia is the fear of vegetables.

Source: www.triviachamp.com

VOX POPULI

Are you convinced with CJ Corona’s conviction?

“The non-declaration of his dollar account and katong ni-admit si Corona na naa siay’y 80 million peso account, siya na’y ga-buko sa iyang self. Iyang mga palusot palpak. CJ Corona is convicted because he broke the trust of the people. Being the highest official in the Judiciary, he is not a good model. Dapat wala jud siya’y hugaw bisan gamay, for this will affect the economy of the Philippines since many people across the globe are watching. Betrayal of public trust is an impeachable offense.”

Bethlyn Joy Pagasian – Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering-IV

“Corona was not honest enough. Bearing the highest position in the Judiciary Department, his integrity must not be unquestionable. In all aspects, he should be honest.”

Dr. Dalisay Dumalag – Dean College of Nursing, Dentistry, Pharmacy and Allied Health Sciences

“I’m not convinced. It is very clear that the decisions of the senator judges are tinted by their political and personal interests especially that the senatorial election is fast approaching.”

Ace Vincent Zerna – Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering-IV

“I was convinced because of the senators’ proofs against him concerning his statement of assets, liabilities and net worth (SALN).”

Everon Joy Catanus – Bachelor of Secondary Education-I

“Corona is proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt. He did not fairly present his SALN. As a public official and as the top official of the Judiciary Department, he should be the role model and his integrity must be untarnished. This serves as a warning to the ones concerned, who until now did not declare their SALN fairly and honestly.”

Dr. Recto Reyes – Assistant Dean College of Business and Accountancy

“Yes, klaro nga guilty siya kay wala niya natarung ug defend iyang self.”

Karla May Iñgan – Bachelor of Science in Business Administration-IV

“Based on the presentation, although I was not in Manila, I can say that Corona is really guilty. As far as a government employee is concerned, there should be amendments that any official shall have transparencies like the so called SALN. What he did was an abuse of power and that was really unfair for us. So mabuti lang sa kanya.”

Dr. Reynaldo G Tan – Instructor, College of Business and Accountancy

“Mura’g guilty. Basing on the evidences presented.”

Giovanni Co – Bachelor of Science in Biology-III

“Yes, because he has a lot of properties nga wala naapil sa SALN.”

‘Catherine’ – Bachelor of Science in Business Administration-I

“Dili ko in-favor nga guilty si Corona kay iya rang sala is wala niya napakita ug tarong iyang SALN.”

John Dave Calanza – Bachelor of Science in Business Administration-IV

“No, kay nasagulan ra gihapon ug politics. Kay sa pag-ingun ni Santiago about atong “Grounds for Impeachment,” wala nakabutang nga ma-convict if kulang ang SALN.”

Catherine Abella – Bachelor of Science in Business Administration-IV

“Although the impeachment trial was politically motivated, I believe that as one of the top officials, he should be a model to everyone. He should be fair especially in filing the SALN. And there were a lot of instances which influenced the Senator Judges to accuse him guilty; such is when Corona walked out from the hearing.”

Mr. Floro Salgado -- Instructor, College of Industrial Technology

VOX POPULI

What can you say about the current enrollment procedure in NORSU?

“Medyo taas jud ang linya… so far okay ra sa pag-kuha og schedule compare didto sa cashier nga perteng taasa dayon dugay pa jud kaayo.”

John Rose Balangaan – Associate in Hospitality Management-I

“Very tiring samot na ang interview …super daghan jud ang mga students.”

Germelyn Elnar – Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy-I

“Lisod jud ang mu-linya samot na kay bali pa jung taasa. Pero mura’g makaya ra man, mahuman ra bitaw japun.”

Edna Bangkat – Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering-I

“Taas kaayo! Kapoy kayo og tindog!”

Rosedy Cuevas – Bachelor of Science in Business Administration-I

“Kapoy kaayo tungod sa kataas sa linya.”

Lady Hazel Albina – Bachelor in Technological Education-I

“Taas ra jud kayo ang linya, dili parehas atong sa MC-II nga maba ra tapos gamay ra pud ang tawo.”

Marijoy Enero – Bachelor of Science in Architecture-I

“Taas ang linya, dugay pa mahuman ang process maong kapoy jud kaayo.”

Chade Absin – Bachelor of Science in Nursing-I

“As in bali jud taasa ang linya; maka-ugtos lami na dili i-balik pero unsa-on ta man kinahanglan man jud mi mubalik. Kapoy jud og tindog.”

Romalyn Avanzado – Bachelor of Secondary Education-I

“Daghan kaayo ang students maong ‘big trial’ jud nako ning paglinya. Ganahan na jud kong maki-insert na lang pero policy man nga dapat jud mu linya, so wala na ko’y mahimo.”

Evangeline Muit- Associate in Hospitality Management-I

“Makahulat ra man ko bisan taas ang linya; part man pud ni siya sa enrollment so okay ra.”

Michael Louis Tilos – Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation-I

“Taas. Dugay. Tapos bali jud inita, kung i-compare, mas dali jud ang line sa pagkuha ug schedule.”

Melody Gadingan – Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy-I

“Ang positive thing aning pag-line, paspas. On the negative side, taas ra jud kayo, dayon daghan ang students.”

Jonah Taniog – Bachelor of Science in Geology-I

“Bisa’g asa man pud ko mu linya parehas ra man tanan.”

Marjorie Lozada – Bachelor of Secondary Education-I

“Okay ra man. Kaso kapoy ug sige’g tindog samot na kay taas ang line.”

John Bart – Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation-I

“Taas kayo ang line! Very tiring and I observed some students sitting on the bench, maybe, they are tired too.”

Ayah Calumpang – Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management-I

2 die after truck sideswipes pedestrians

Victims walk on the wrong side, authorities said

By Joeylen Dela Cruz

Bayawan City – Two pedestrians were dead and four injured after a speeding Isuzu Elf truck sideswiped the victims along Talas Place, Cansilong, Bayawan City, Negros Oriental on May 19.


The fatalities were identified as Analy Torres, 36 and Glenda Gelera, 19, a fresh graduate of Bachelor of Elementary Education in Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) – Bayawan-Sta. Catalina Campus (BSC). The two were declared dead on arrival by attending physician Dr. Victor Nuico of Bayawan District Hospital.

The other victims who sustained bruises in the different parts of the body were Apolonio Copra, Ramon Cayang, Globilyn Cayang and Yen Gelera.

Victims were on the wrong side

Based on the initial investigation conducted by the Bayawan City–Philippine National Police headed by Police Chief Inspector Teodorico Picardal, at around 10:30 p.m., a fast Isuzu Elf was travelling en route Basay to Bayawan City upon reaching the curve of Talas Place, Cansilong area.

The chief inspector added that the six victims were walking “on the wrong side of the road.” Meanwhile, Picardal noted that the Isuzu Elf driver was drunk when the incident happened.

The driver, Herman Baldado, 49 years old and a resident of Brgy. Cawitan, Santa Catalina, will be facing the cases of reckless imprudence, homicide and multiple physical injuries.

Picardal advised pedestrians to be more vigilant when walking along or crossing national highways to avoid the same accident.

Marve Fabela, a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy student and one of the witnesses of the incident, admitted that they [pedestrians] do also have a fault since they were walking on the wrong side. According to him, they should have walked on the left side of the road.

NORSU extends help for Gelera

Glenda Gelera is the youngest among the three children of Mr. and Mrs. Bordet Gelera and is a magna cum laude awardee.

NORSU–BSC College of Education (CEd) donated a humble amount for the victim’s funeral. CEd Assistant Dean Lucille Himpayan shared that she was really shocked about what happened to Gelera. She added that Gelera is surely a big loss to the community since she had been a good student leader and a member of The Pylon.

Meanwhile, NORSU–BSC Student Affairs Office Director Francis Galon said that the parents of the victim will receive their daughter’s death insurance worth P50, 000.

BSN grad qualifies for TOSP R-VII 2012

By Shenmae S. Sojor

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) graduate of Negros Oriental State University (NORSU), Felix Mosqueda III was adjudged as one of the top 20 qualifiers for this year’s search for the Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines (TOSP) in Region VII.


A cum laude graduate, Mosqueda was nominated under the field of Medicine and Health-Related category after excelling in the academics, leadership and social responsibility categories.

College of Nursing, Dentistry, Pharmacy and Allied Health Sciences Dean Dalisay Dumalag expressed her happiness for the achievement of Mosqueda and encouraged other students to be involved in activities that will hone both their leadership skills and academic performances.

The dean added that she had seen the potential in Mosqueda that is why she pushed him to join conferences and activities outside NORSU.

“We are very proud of him,” Dumalag said.

The top 20 qualifiers underwent series of evaluations and were determined by a roster of screeners in the different fields.

Wina Jane Gulima a BSN student said that Mosqueda is a pride of the university since such honor of being a nominee is a rare opportunity.

“Although he did not make it to the top 10 list, at least Mosqueda did his best,” second year BSN Jennelyn Traumata said.

Likewise, senior BSN students Rechelle Lee Ramoda and Kimberly Rose Miano said that Mosqueda deserves a “big congratulations because of a job well-done.”

“I hope next time maka-sulod gi-hapon ang nursing sa TOSP,” Miano asserted.

The TOSP is an Awards and Formation Program that seeks to stimulate the youth into nation building through exemplary academic achievements, societal change, and inspiring leadership services to their school, local communities, and the country.

The regional TOSP was a joint project of the Outstanding Students of the Philippines Alumni Community, RFM Foundation Incorporated, Commission on Higher Education and the Philippine Long Distance Telephone Corporation.

NORSU's first-ever summa cum laude,

Ymbols breaks university's academic record

By Francis Ivan G. Ho

With a cumulative grade point average of 1.2 or 93%, Bachelor of Science in Mathematics graduate Henzel Mae Ymbol made a record-breaking feat after being hailed as Negros Oriental State University’s first-ever Summa Cum Laude during the university’s 54th Commencement Exercises last March 23.


Twenty-year-old Henzel Mae Ymbol is a scholar of the United Coconut Planters Bank–Coconut Industry Investment Fund (UCPB–CIIF). Ymbol is the first ever graduate who achieved the summa cum laude award in the history of NORSU and in UCPB–CIIF.

NORSU President Henry A. Sojor told the The NORSUnian (TN) that he was glad with the achievement of Ymbol as the ‘record-breaker’ in the university’s history. He added that if someone will gain such recognition, he/she will lead a way for aspiring students.

“Because someone broke the record, soon enough, [more] Norsunians will follow,” the university president disclosed.

Ymbol, being the NORSU graduate who first achieved the summa cum laude award, also received the Medal of Excellence from UCPB-CIIF Foundation, Medal for Leadership Award from Senator Aquilino Pimental III and the Medal of Excellence from Senator Manny Villar and former Finance Secretary Margarito “Gary” Teves.

“Your advocacy for excellence has guided her [Miss Ymbol] to strive for the highest academic performance as well as hone her leadership skills,” said UCPB-CIIF President Edgardo Amistad in a letter to the university president.

Edgardo also expressed his admiration for what Ymbol has done and recognized her as the first UCPB-CIIF scholar to gain the highest award among the 385 UCPB–CIIF scholars from the different universities in the country since 2004.

Meanwhile, Ymbol in an interview with TN, expressed her happiness about the recognition. "I am happy with the awards I have received…it was a mixture of feelings actually. I am even afraid because there's a bigger responsibility I have to shoulder. I'll be representing and carrying the flag of NORSU, and I have to live up with the expectations of the people," she said.

Ymbol also thanked her scholarship [UCPB-CIIF] for letting her avail of a free college education that her parents could not afford.

"We were classmates before. She is very quiet but answers questions well," said Katherine Villocillo, a fresh graduate of Bachelor of Science in Technological Education.

Furthermore, Rojan Talita, a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy student said, "I hope that she can achieve what she opt for."

Ymbol’s achievement solicited national attention and that several leading newspapers in the Philippines published articles about her ‘record-breaking’ performance.

EE grad tops RMELE

By Janethriz B. Aso and Jela Mae Ruales 

A Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) graduate of Negros Oriental State University (NORSU), Mario Erosedo placed 10th in the Registered Master Electrician Licensure Examination (RMELE) last April 24.


Erosedo obtained an 81 percent passing rate, putting him on the 10th spot of the board examination. With him is another NORSU–RMELE passer, Reinhold Jek Abing.
Sought for his reaction on the recent examination, Erosedo said that the result surprised him a lot and he never anticipated in topping the exam. According to him, with added prayers and patience in reviewing, nothing is impossible in obtaining a satisfactory outcome.
Screen shot image from www.prc.gov.ph
Erosedo added that he had a hard time focusing for the RMELE. “Lisod para nako ang RMELE kay wala jud nako nabasa maayo ang Philippine Electrical Code book; focused man me sa Electrical Engineering Licensure Examination,” he stressed.

College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA) Dean Josef Vill Villanueva congratulated Erosedo and Abing for the name they have brought to their college. He added that he was glad with the two passers for inspiring students to excel in their field of endeavor.

“There were those who topped the Master Electrician Exam before, and I am glad that my students continued doing it,” Villanueva disclosed.

Third year BSEE student Charess Villalva said, “His [Erosedo] five-year stay in CEA was all worth it.”

Another junior BSEE student, Gladys Marie Morales, commended Erosedo’s satisfying mark in the exam. She said, “I was never regretful upon choosing my course for I know our instructors are molding us well to become successful engineers in the future…it shows on the number of passers CEA gains every year.”

“Engr. Erosedo brought NORSU’s name into fame,” said fourth year Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering student Armand Paul Mangubat. For Bethlyn Joy Pagasian, another senior BSEE student, the result will motivate and inspire her and other students to study harder. Pagasian related that CEA’s instructors are really employing their best skills to train students and future topnotchers.

The Professional Regulation Commission announced that 690 registered master electrician passed out of 1,953 RMELE takers.

Dumaguete’s Pride wins 3rd in It’s Showtime inter-town tilt

By Joeylen A. Dela Cruz

After showcasing their best dance moves, Dumaguete’s Pride emerged third during the grand finals of the top-rating noontime television show It’s Showtime.


The dance group is Dumaguete City’s representative to the reality talent show with dancers from the Skip Dance Crew, Kabilin Dance Troupe, and the Tightbeat Crew of Negros Oriental State University (NORSU).

Dumaguete’s Pride Trainer Jerome Culanag said that he is happy and thankful with the result even though they were not hailed as the champion and that the city government of Dumaguete, with Congresswoman Jocelyn Limkaichong and NORSU President Henry A. Sojor, aided them financially.

To note, the dance group made its way to the top by winning the daily and weekly eliminations where the remote performances were held inside the university gymnasium.

“The experience was great and it taught us to be more responsible, patient and respectful towards our teammates,” Culanag shared.

Meanwhile, performing with them live in the remote during the grand-finals were The Most Wanted Crew, New Born Crew, Silent Crew, Sole Extreme Crew, Kids Supremacy Dance Crew, Teenage Crew, School Boys, Skip Dance Crew, Kabilin Dance Troupe, Street Dance Crew and other Dumagueteños.

City Tourism Officer Woodrow Maquiling Jr. opined that the group did their best in the competition. Though Dumaguete’s Pride did not win the Grand Champion title, Maquiling said that they “are still the champion for me.”

Mariz Cellona, a sophomore Bachelor of Mass Communication student said that she is contented with the result since it was adjudged fairly.

Moreover, sophomore Bachelor of Science in Accountancy student Shienna April Fausto shared that she is proud of Dumaguete’s Pride for giving another name for NORSU in the national level.

Two of the remote performers, Steffany Cox and Jexter Majan, expressed their gratitude to all the people who supported them all throughout the practice. The two disclosed that the hectic schedules of their practices did not hinder them from obtaining the 3rd spot.

7 BS Accy grads pass CPALE 2012

By Myrna B. Alarcio

After posing no passers from last year’s examination, Negros Oriental State University–College of Business and Accountancy (NORSU–CBA) have finally produced seven Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) during the May 2012 Certified Public Accountant Licensure Examination (CPALE).


The new CPAs were Charlotte Alinsunurin, Jonald Bendaño, Ranelo dela Cruz, Shelah Dorio, Christine Chelo Laurante, Meriane Salik, and James Earl Villacorte.

NORSU-CBA mustered a 53.85 percent passing rate after seven out of 13 takers passed the CPALE, higher than the 37.85 percent national passing mark set by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC). The passers consist of three from the six Bachelor of Science in Accountancy (BS Accy) fresh graduates and four from the seven repeaters.
Screen shot image from www.prc.gov.ph
CBA Dean Silveria Ochotorena said that she is pleased with the performance of the examinees. “I am happy that they have reached the passing mark, thus the performance of NORSU is quite improving,” she said.

The dean shared that dedication and religious studying, together with the right preparations, helped the CPALE takers pass. Meanwhile, Ochotorena disclosed that the CBA gave monetary assistance worth P20, 000 to the takers for the review materials.

However, Accountancy Department Chair Brigido Enquilino said he was a bit dissatisfied with the result. “The performance was not that good that’s why we are aiming to get a 100 percent rate or maybe at least 80 percent this October,” he said.

Moreover, the department chair advised future takers to have proper study habits. “They [BS Accy students] need to study with a minimum of 5 hours daily.”

He furthered that the department is employing the zero-based grading system effective this year where students must maintain a grade of 75 percent or higher in all major subjects. “Once they failed in a major subject, we advise them to shift,” Enquilino disclosed.

Stephanie Bilocura, a senior BS Accy student, opined that she was glad with the result. “I am happy because it is already an achievement of the department from 0 to 50 percent,” she said.

Jennilou Sienes, another freshman BS Accy student, shared that she was inspired to finish her course. “If nakaya nila, makaya pud namo,” she said.

Meanwhile, the PRC announced that 1, 995 out of 5, 315 examinees passed the CPALE conducted in the cities of Manila, Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, and Legazpi.

CEA produces licensed engineers, topnotcher

By Jela Mae Ruales

The Negros Oriental State University–College of Engineering and Architecture (NORSU–CEA) produced a new set of passers during the April and May Electronics and Communications Engineer Licensure Examination (ECELE), Electrical Engineer Licensure Examinations (EELE), Civil Engineer Licensure Examination (CELE) and a 10th placer in the Registered Master Electrician Licensure Examination (RMELE).


The successful ECELE passers were Melvin Belnas, Mark Jaed Bendijo, Roderick Indab, May Joy Leonora, and Karole Joseph Torres. Meanwhile, the CELE passers were Ernie Diputado, Kristoffer Gantalao, Celestina Ojano, and Lemalyn Ragasa. Moreover, Reinhold Jek Abing and Mario Erosedo were the EELE passers.

Of the six examinees who took the April ECELE, five of them passed, giving NORSU an 83.33 percent passing rate as compared to the 53.55 percent national passing rate set by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC). Meanwhile, two out of three EELE takers passed, mustering a 66.67 percent passing rate as compared to the 43.87 national passing rate.

On the other hand, four of the seven takers of the May CELE passed, obtaining a 57.14 percent passing percentage as compared to the 34.07 national passing rate.

In a related development, Erosedo placed 10th in the RMELE after gaining an 81 percent passing rate. (See related article.)

CEA Dean Josef Vill Villanueva shared that he is very happy with the results of the examinations because the marks only prove that they are still able to produce passers and a topnotcher in the national examinations. The dean also commended the success of the teachings in their college. “Our faculties are giving their best in providing our students with quality education,” he said.

John Kevin Racabal, a graduating Bachelor of Science in Electronics and Communications Engineering (BSECE) student said, “We are so proud of them! They will become an inspiration to the rest of us.”

Furthermore, senior BSECE student Lili Andrea Piñero shared that she is proud with the result. She believed that their college will continue to produce more batches of licensed engineers especially that they are now equipped with modernized tools and competent instructors.

The different examinations were done in the different testing centers in the Philippines.

Faith Ignited

By Rock in Roll’in

It was the dawn of May 21. I was awakened by the blinding light of the fluorescent lamp and the steady stare of three pairs of eyes on the ceiling of that old rest house. For a moment, I wondered how unreactionary I was at the presence of the three geckos when I used to freak out at the sight of one reptile. As I checked on the time and the plight of my sleeping colleagues, I crawled out of bed, said a little prayer, and began throwing into my bag some necessities to bring.


It was indeed a beautiful Monday dawn, the day our five-day youth camp would commence and the day I planned to enroll myself as a senior student of this state university. I was more or less one hundred and five kilometers away from Dumaguete City that time, and a good Christian friend, who was also an officer of our youth church organization, offered me a lift back home so that I could prepare for the enrollment. We had a deal done weeks before that big day.

Everything was well-planned before we embarked. We gave instructions to the rest of the officers left behind and prayed for a good weather. I was pretty confident that everything will be fine. Everything. Except for one.

As the morning sun made its graceful entrance to meet and greet a Monday anew, our travel was as smooth as silk on the asphalted road. Though both of us were in a ‘sticky situation’, literally, (since we skipped taking a bath before leaving the venue) and were almost hungry for breakfast, we managed to have short conversations once in a while and filled the car’s atmosphere with gibberish talks. But still, my main concern was what lies ahead, what awaits me when I arrive home. I may not look fresh, but my father’s voice over the phone the night before was as fresh as a newly-picked orange in a tree.

“Ging, have you prayed for your enrollment?” He meant the money intended for my enrollment. (He had told me months ago that he could not assure me of an amount for my senior year education. We were also struggling with our finances during that time because of my summer classes.)

I quickly sensed what was going on. Either God has already answered my prayers or has delayed it for some more hours, I was certain that I could be enrolled the next day.

“Today,” I thought, “I will be going home empty-handed and without the full assurance that I will be enrolled. But I am happy and excited for I know that I am rich in faith and hope that God has answered my prayers. I have prayed to God for the nth time that He shall provide my needs for my enrollment, according to what has been said in Philippians 4:19. But my God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”

After a very quick drive of one hour and a half, I shut the door of the car and said goodbye to my friend who also made earlier plans of having himself enrolled at the neighboring university. I was welcomed with a smile by my mother as she kissed me. She told me she missed me.

I did not immediately ask for the tuition from my father, neither asked my mother about it. I wanted to prolong the thrill that I was feeling inside – the thrill of an answered prayer. I just uttered from time to time, “Oh Lord, help me accept the news with a grateful heart.”

Then my father called me, saying, “Ging, I have something to tell you.”

I looked at my mother who was standing beside him that time and she gave me a frown. I turned back to my father and I could not read his countenance.

“Okay, this is starting to give me goosies,” I thought.

He started opening his mouth and told a story. I gave a half-smile and a lazy stare at both of them and started turning pale.

“Could you please get to the bottom of this already?” I thought again.

And suddenly, out of the blue, my father fished a very small brown envelope from his pocket, about 5 centimeters wide and 7 centimeters long. I did not even know how he ended his story. I was so pre-occupied with the brown envelope. That thing seemed to sparkle, just like that of the cartoon shows I used to see on Disney and Cartoon Network, with a hushing, almost screaming, tinkling sound of glory along with it.

My father handed it to me with a grin. My mother said nothing. She only gave me another big hug.

“Ging, you can now enroll. God answered our prayers. And congratulations kay 4th year na ka.”

“Pakuyaw kaayo ka Tay. Kaingon ko’g di na ko ka eskwela,” I blurted in excitement.

“Ah madahan? Naa kay Ginoo. Di g’yud ka Niya pasagdan,” he answered.

I did not ask for more questions. I just heaved a sigh of relief and thanked them both. My God is an awesome God indeed.

To cut it short, I was enrolled on that same day and it took me just half a day to do it. Later that afternoon, my friend and I went back to Basay with his family and another youth camp officer. I knew by that time that my business in NORSU was over. Hence, I have to face my responsibilities for another event, all for God’s glory.

I could only stand amazed on how God continues to sustain my needs. The time I made my first tiny steps into my first classroom in kindergarten until today that I am almost nearing the finish line, He has never failed to prove how rich and gracious He is. Until today, I am living under His mercy and grace, and until today, I claim His promise. “And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.” Matthew 21:22

Rock in Roll’in is a Baptist, and a member of one of the organizations here in NORSU. She is currently in her senior year.

The Woman of the Hour

By Lycel D. Caingcoy

The deafening drums and the yells of amazement echo simultaneously around the four-walled stadium. She humbly walks through a narrow aisle where a thousand pairs of eyes stare at her. But she knows that she is going to be alright because her family is right there, too. In their faces are hues of vibrant smiles and proud hearts. And from them she took the courage to step forward towards the stage and shake hands with the upper echelons of the university. She is yet to receive the highest form of academic award a Norsunian can ever achieve.

The cheers and never ending applauses continued to overwhelm her as she finally arrived at the stage. For the first time in her life, she herself has become the spotlight. The mass media flocked at the sides of the stage to commemorate an event that will mark a new local history of the province – the only state university in Negros Oriental to produce its first Summa Cum Laude.

Bitterness of Life

Twenty-year old town girl Henzel Mae Ymbol was raised in a simple life with her average earner parents. A native from San Juan, Siquijor and the eldest of four siblings, she admitted that she helps her father tend their coconut farm, livestock, and usually do chores that are intended for boys. Recounting her yesteryears, Ymbol related that in behalf of her mother, she was the one who sets their food and that her usual routine was to wash the wet blankets and baby pads of her younger brother before heading to school and babysit him after classes. Ymbol shared that the sacrifices she undertook during her grade school were the ones that tested her courage and made her realize that there are a lot of more important things to attend to.

Going to school without a penny in her pocket, having been mocked by classmates because her clothes and bags have once been theirs’ and retaining old pencil and notebooks at the start of the school year did not beset her. Henzel admitted that she started to become aware and worry the thing that worry her parents—and that is the financial status of her growing family. It was the time she painted a mark in her heart that she will become more serious. Henzel ensured to manifest whole shrewdness towards her studies. Her adversities did not hinder her to graduate class valedictorian at Catulayan Elementary School.

Was and Always a Victor

After treading the rocky road of her elementary years, she had to face another unsure chapter of her student life. Her being a high school student brought her another set of responsibilities and undertakings that yielded another gathering of tough times to further assess her persistence and faith in the Almighty. She became a working student in her school for free miscellaneous fees and even accepted laundries and cleaning jobs from one of her teachers to fund her projects. When summer comes, her father would send her as a family helper at Larena, Siquijor where she learned how to deal with other people and that the values she attained from doing so lives up until the present. With the plight she was in, she still managed to work and even brought home the bacon after graduating as class valedictorian at Catulayan National High School.

Plain living as it was, Henzel was rest assured that her parents could not send her to college. She knew that her old and frail parents would be grappling with more and more expenses. Indeed, desperate times call for desperate measures; hence, her brother was urged to stop schooling, giving way to pursue her dream.

Being top of her class, a scholarship program was offered by the United Coconut Planters Bank–Coconut Industry Investment Fund (UCPB–CIIF) to shoulder her studies here in Dumaguete City. She never disappointed them anyway. To further compensate her schooling, she worked as a student assistant in the Mathematics Department and even conducted tutorial classes in Math. She borrowed a laptop from a tutee so as to finish her thesis and projects.

Because of Henzel’s brilliant academic performance, her four siblings would battle with endless queries regarding their individual standing in the academe, figuring out who among them had a share of blessing. Henzel however related that she is still their proud “ate” who accepts and loves them for who they are and what they are capable of.

Friendly Gal

When among friends, Henzel shared that she wanted her pals to feel comfortable with her as a companion. Instead of getting pissed off when a joke is thrown on her, she manages to gag back and eventually join with the laughter. She treasures her friends as much as they treasure her. That is why she always exerts effort in knowing them first before getting at ease with them. When she is left alone, she can be found daydreaming after reading a novel. Some of her most favorite novels were Jane Eyre and Uncle Tom’s Cabin by English writer Charlotte Brontë and American author Harriet Beecher Stowe, respectively. Aside from that, she could also be seen sitting alone in the Perpetual Church or having a walk around the city with no certain destination.

To satisfy your insatiable desire regarding her potion to success, Henzel shared that she has always been a fan of merely understanding the lessons instead of doing so much memorizations. “The best way to learn is by sharing,” she continues, “but not in the sense of letting others copy my works, rather, letting them understand what we are doing and why we have that certain answer.”

Moreover, Henzel said that she always thinks that she knows nothing or the least so that her mind would be open to greater ideas when a new discussion arises. “Just like a glass. If it is already full and you still pour water in it, that water will just end up overflowing. But if you are like an empty glass, craving for knowledge the world could offer, you’ll learn even small things humbly,” she quoted.

Asked about her study habit, she said that she does a little scanning for minor subjects whereas she patiently studies her major subjects especially the higher Math to the point that she needs to write her notes respectively.

“And one thing, there should be mellow music playing—some kind of a relaxing tool for me,” she confessed.

Bearing the fact that she had been the Summa Cum Laude, her love for pure Mathematics cannot be denied. According to her, Mathematics gave her the hint to look at things deeply. She added that the field is in everything, without us realizing it. To her, life is a problem with certain ends but it is up to us what formula to be used to come up with the ultimate answer.

“If you believe in Mathematics and its concepts, you’ll have the perception that every problem has a solution,” she asserted. On the other hand, if Math was her first love, she reveals that her second and third love were Science and Agriculture and related craft, respectively. Asked about her lovelife, Henzel shared that it is almost three years now since she entertained someone special. Conflict of interests and distance were some of the factors that made them unable to maintain their relationship. Henzel realized that she cannot serve two masters at the same time.

Currently, Henzel works as a Market Specialist in Makati City, leading the way to finally raise their standard of living as well as supporting her siblings’ school fees.

No matter how good you are in something, no matter how skillful you are, no matter how edgy you are among others, if you do not put into actions these God-given talents, you will gain nothing. You will remain the same person as you were yesterday. The kind of values you live today greatly spells the kind of person you become in the future. Indeed, Henzel serves as a model for students who are never afraid to dream that once impossible dream.

Unprioritized Priority

By The Arbitrary Pointer

Several complaints have been created by students who do not have proper classrooms to hold their classes with. In fact, a few of them have dropped their subjects because of the hassles brought about by this dilemma. The rest remained voiceless and complacent because of fears of being reprimanded when they complain.


When I first stepped inside Negros Oriental State University three years ago, this problem has already existed yet it remained unanswered. I know students have been telling their teachers about the issue but still nothing happened. Perhaps, if indeed teachers have told the administration, they could have probably answered or if not, perhaps the authority covered their ears to refrain from hearing the students’ similar cries. That is a problem!

For Bachelor of Mathematics students for example, looking for vacant classrooms has been their struggle. The course is no less than attached to the College of Arts and Sciences, yet they still go to the College of Education to have classes or if not to the College of Business and Accountancy and to the College of Industrial Technology. Others conduct classes under lounges in the university.

While we are in the peak of sacrifices, it is sad to say that the administration is a slowpoke regarding these concerns. We know we have to understand the university because evidently they are after the best welfare of the students. However, for the past few years, the same problem has been aired by the students in the university.

Remember! We are supposed to enjoy an ideal training place as part of the privilege of being a student. And classrooms are one of the most essential elements of our development.

Classrooms are believed to be a safe space where learning can take place. It is where instructors and students share ideas. Moreover, it is in classrooms where instructors integrate learning into students’ daily life.

Now, what do you think will happen if this part is missing? Perhaps, proper class interaction cannot take place or maybe the interests of the students will slowly disappear. We know you aim for higher in advancing our proficiency as mark is showing. So we suggest you have to sensitively look this matter.

As part of the studentry, we can say that the university still has wide pylons to hone our personalities. We, students, hoped that the university will not take our requests for granted.

Partly a part, partly apart

(EDITORIAL)

We have finally come to the dawning of a new school year. The university is pleased to welcome all freshmen, transferees, and returnees with a wide smile. With a sure increase of enrollees, it could be said that Negros Oriental State University is an institution no lesser than other high-class universities in the province.


But how does it really feel like to be a true-blue Norsunian?

Evidently, there are a lot of students who seem to have successfully enrolled themselves in NORSU but have not really felt the essence of being one. Perhaps, here is the answer to that.

Being apart. It is quite a sad thing to still see a lot of students who remain lax and indifferent about the events happening around them. They are consciously aware of some anomalies and probably misconduct of some administrator or faculty member yet they remain mute. They are witnesses to acts that order on abuse by some teachers, yet they act blind and pretend not to see the real picture. They are aware that they have the abilities and skills that they can use for the common good yet they remain secretive, saying that they are shy or that their skills and talents are nothing compared to others. They are students with capabilities, strength, power and knowledge to make a difference for themselves and for the community yet they remain ignorant, indefinite and unsure.

Be a part. It is high time that all students become a part of something that benefit themselves and the people around them. This state university is a good ground for excellence in almost all fields. Various organizations, institutions and small groups have been put up for the empowerment of students.

We have the Kabilin Dance troupe for aspiring dancers, the Kabilin Choir for golden voices and the Kabilin Band for music makers. We also have The NORSUnian, the official weekly student publication of Negros Oriental State University, an institution that seeks to fight for the welfare and rights of students thru paper and pen. At the same time, the institution hones the writing, drawing, and photography skills of students. Then, we have The Pylon, the official yearbook of Negros Oriental State University, which seek to empower students thru developing the graphics designing and writing skills of individuals, among others. We have more or less fifty organizations under the League of Student Organizations in the academic, religious and special interest categories.

There are a lot to choose from. Unless you have not graduated yet, you still have all the chances in the world to participate and be a catalyst of change. We assure you it is all worth the effort and sweat, knowing that you have become a part of something, be it an organization, institution, or group.

This academic year 2012-2013 opens with a lot of opportunities offered for you. It is for you to decide – to remain apart, or to be a part.

K to 12: A Boon or Bane?

By The Anatomy Of

Statistics says it. A rough estimate of 21.49 million elementary and secondary public school students will once again enter the premises of their beloved alma mater for once the school year 2012–2013. Well, that’s a big challenge to our Department of Education (DepEd) officials and teachers since this year also marks the implementation of the K to 12 curriculum and the inclusion of “mother tongue” from Kindergarten to Grade III.


Apparently, in a country that’s seeking for advancements in education and in producing qualified learners, the K to 12 program might be the answer to these problems. As a matter of fact, the Philippines is the only country that’s been following the 10-year basic education cycle in Asia; hence, it is high-time for our basic education system to follow the trend of other countries— one year Kindergarten level and 12 years of basic education (which includes six years of primary education, four years of junior high school and two years of senior high school).

However, there are glitches in this new system.

Since this school year’s batch serves as the ‘pilot class’ for this new program and that a sum of 21.49 million students will flock to nearby public schools, how then will our Filipino learners grab a gist of the lessons taught in the classroom if they don’t even have, or lack a classroom in the primary and junior high levels, plus the two-year senior high level?

More so, this curriculum would also mean that additional teachers will be hired to man the extra levels, but, as the DepEd noted that a total of 47,000 teachers are badly needed, who will then handle those remaining echelons of learning with qualified and professional skills in teaching?

And the perennial problems still exist like inadequacy of books, overcrowded classrooms and sometimes the learning of the basics under the shed of a tree.

For me, what the Filipino learners need is the quality of education rather than focusing on the quantity or number of years an individual should spend to become a more competitive and productive graduate of this K to 12 curriculum. Although, we lagged in the lowest spot during the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), maybe this problem could be remedied by sewing first the weak spots in some of our learning institutions and providing adequate supports and funds.

With that, I think the Filipino learners will strive hard and excel if they feel that their learning environment is conducive for learning. Above all, learning occurs in the learner and therefore should not be solely based on the years a learner must take.