ILPS Commission 10

The Int’l League of Peoples’ Struggle Commission 10 enjoins our Muslim brothers and sisters in observing Eid al-Fitr. Together let us achieve our collective aspirations for freedom, peace, and justice.

As we observe the end of Ramadan, may we all be strengthened and further committed to our struggle for genuine peace based on justice.

#EidMubarak

Greetings from the ILPS Commission 10

By Herman M. Lagon

Campus journalism has evolved into a powerful force in school communities in the digital age, giving students a forum to express their ideas, disseminate news, and encourage activism and responsibility. The days of waiting weeks, even months, for the publication of the school newspaper are long gone. With the speed of an X tweet, Facebook post, or YouTube vlog, today’s campus journalists cover, comment on, and broadcast anything from breaking news to on-campus happenings in real-time via digital channels.

Campus journalists now work in a completely different way thanks to digital media, which allows them to post content rapidly in a variety of formats. The boundaries to instant communication have been broken down, whether it is through an insightful article, an engaging video report, a photo essay, or a digital cartoon that perfectly captures the spirit of campus life. Their immediateness broadens their audience and increases their reach, converting inactive readers into active participants in the conversation.

Communication abilities are honed in a crucible of campus journalism. Students gain experience in effectively and convincingly expressing their ideas through the creation of multimedia presentations, interviews, and article writing. It is not just about aceing your next presentation—this is about learning how to communicate effectively in all spheres of life, from business to interpersonal relationships.

Investigating problems, compiling information, and logically presenting it are difficult tasks. It calls for a level of analytical skill and critical thinking that is developed via the demands of journalism. Campus journalists learn to sift through material, differentiating fact from fiction, and generating well-informed judgments. They become more astute citizens as well as better journalists as a result.

Similarly, black-and-white writing is not the only format used in university journalism. It is a vibrant blank canvas for artistic interpretation. It gives pupils a plethora of opportunities to showcase their creativity, from creating captivating films to creating visually striking designs. Students are inspired to think creatively and independently as a result, pushing them to think beyond the box.

Reporting on local events and issues also cultivates a deep feeling of civic participation and social responsibility. Campus journalists develop into more than just students; they become knowledgeable members of their community, prepared to promote reform and advance the common good. Students learn the importance of their vote and voice in this democratic lesson.

Of course, a group of committed students works behind the scenes to organize assignments, create content, and fulfill deadlines for every campus magazine. This cooperative setting fosters the development of leadership and teamwork abilities. Delegation, decision-making, and conflict resolution are taught to students; they are critical life skills that are useful in both academic and professional contexts.

Campus journalists may now report in real time and instantly share their ideas thanks to the digital era. This immediateness can be extremely important in influencing public opinion, inspiring student activism, and drawing attention to pressing problems on campus or in the community. It is journalism at its loudest, with the potential for stories to become viral and ignite debates that lead to reform.

Their in-depth reporting reveals problems on campus, which prompts modifications to policies and heightened openness. They give pupils vital updates during emergencies and prompt guidance. Reporting on student elections improves the democratic process by increasing participation and voting turnout. Their social justice work encourages inclusivity, equality, and the challenge of the status quo. Furthermore, they celebrate creativity by emphasizing arts and culture, which makes it an integral component of campus life. 

There is no doubt that campus journalism is a shining example of ethics, originality, and activism in a time when information is abundant but the truth is sometimes hard to find. It serves as a breeding ground for the next round of innovators, leaders, and change agents, demonstrating that the keyboard—or pen—remains more powerful than the sword even in the digital age. Student journalists’ work continues to be a monument to the ongoing power of an informed, engaged academic community, reflecting and influencing school dynamics and solidifying journalism’s significance in education and beyond as they negotiate the opportunities and challenges presented by digital media.

External Affairs Division PPAO

LUNGSOD NG MALOLOS– Upang palakasin at suportahan ang pagsasakatuparan ng imahe ng Bulacan bilang ideyal na sentro ng pamumuhunan at negosyo sa Pilipinas, pinangunahan nina Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary at Managing Head ng Board of Investments (BOI) Dr. Ceferino S. Rodolfo at Gobernador Daniel R. Fernando ang paglulunsad ng Invest Bulacan PLUS sa Casie’s Restaurant, Brgy. Dakila sa lungsod na ito noong Biyernes.

Nangangahulugan ang PLUS sa Invest Bulacan PLUS na Promote, Leverage, Upscale, at Synergize o ang pagpapaunlad at pagsusumikap sa pagsulong ng pamumuhunan ng lahat ng stakeholder sa parehong sektor ng gobyerno at non-government tungo sa sustainable at inclusive growth ng Bulacan.

Sa lahat ng mga high-ticket na proyekto kasama ang Bulacan International Airport, Megaworld, at Mega City na ginagawa sa lalawigan, ibinahagi ng trade and industry undersecretary ang kanyang bisyon sa Bulacan.

“Seeing the development in Bulacan, I think we could really work at developing Bulacan as Bulacan, not just because it is near to Metro Manila, not just because it is the gateway from Metro Manila to Central Luzon, and vice versa, but because of the impressive economic development of Bulacan,” ani Rodolfo.

Samantala, binanggit ni Fernando ang mga pagkilala sa larangan ng ekonomiya na natanggap ng lalawigan kamakailan kabilang ang Ikawalong pwesto bilang Most Competitive Province mula sa National Competitiveness Council, Top 7 Fastest Growing Province in the Philippines, at Top 4 Contributing Province sa 2022 National Gross Domestic Product mula Philippine Statistics Authority, at sinabi na ang Invest Bulacan PLUS ang magsisilbing matibay na pundasyon na nakahandang umakit ng mas marami pang pamumuhunan at lumikha ng mga trabaho para sa Bulakenyo.

“Naniniwala po ako na ang tunay na kasaganaan ng isang pamayanan ay matatamo sa pamamagitan ng masiglang kalakalan at kabuhayan na nilalangkapan ng sipag at tiyaga ng nagkakaisang mamamayan,” anang gobernador.

Gayundin, pinirmahan nina Rodolfo at Fernando ang Memorandum of Agreement on the Promotion, and Facilitation of Investments and Investor Servicing sa pagitan ng Pamahalaang Panlalawigan ng Bulacan at DTI-BOI.

Dagdag pa rito, pinangunahan ni Fernando ang panunumpa sa tungkulin ng mga interim officer ng Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions Officers (LEDIPO) Association of Bulacan (LAB).

Dumalo rin sa programa sina BOI-Investments Assistance Center Executive Director Abgd. Bobby G. Fondevilla, BOI-Investments Assistance Service Director Ernesto C. Delos Reyes, Jr., Bulacan Chamber of Commerce and Industry President at Bulacan Investment and Incentive Board Corina T. Bautista, DTI Region 3 OIC Assistant Regional Director at DTI Bulacan Provincial Director Edna D. Dizon, Bise Gob. Alexis C. Castro na kinatawan ni Wynn Rose Cruz, mga Bokal Arthur Legaspi, Cezar Mendoza, at Romina Fermin, at Pinuno ng Provincial Cooperative and Enterprise Development Office Abgd. Jayric L. Amil.

Pumunta rin sa paglulunsad ang mga pinuno ng tanggapan ng Pamahalaang Panlalawigan ng Bulacan sa pangunguna ni Panlalawigang Tagapangasiwa Antonette V. Constantino kasama sina Pinuno ng Provincial Planning and Development Office Arlene G. Pascual, Pinuno ng Provincial Agriculture Office Ma. Gloria SF. Carrillo, Pinuno ng Provincial History, Arts, Culture, and Tourism Office Dr. Eliseo S. Dela Cruz, at Pinuno ng Provincial Public Affairs Office Katrina Anne B. Balingit.

Renowned for its extensive selection of gadgets, SM Cyberzone has evolved into a haven for tech enthusiasts. With offerings from leading brands to emerging trendsetters, it provides a diverse range of options to suit every need and budget.

Be summer ready by gearing up with these essential gadgets:

Smartphones

One of the most sought-after water-resistant gadgets is the smartphone. With models coming out with IP68 ratings, these devices can withstand dust and immersion in water up to a specified depth and duration. Brands such as Samsung, Apple, and Huawei unveil their latest smartphones at SM Cyberzone, offering customers a wide range of options to select the one that best suits their preferences.

Action Cameras

For adventure seekers and content creators, action cameras are essential for capturing life’s most thrilling moments. Whether it’s plunging into the depths of the ocean or braving the rapids of a river, action cameras from GoPro, DJI, and Sony, among others, offer stunning image quality and durability, making them ideal companions for outdoor adventures.

Fitness Trackers and Smartwatches

Fitness fanatics and active individuals use wearable devices such as fitness tracker and smartwatch to monitor number of steps taken, heart rate, and sleep patterns. If you plan to use your tracker during water-based exercises, opt for a model with water resistance to avoid damage. Brands like Apple, Samsung, Huawei and Xiaomi provide comprehensive health insights while withstanding sweat, rain, and even swimming sessions. The summer heat is on for anything and everything tech, follow @smcyberzone on social media for trendy gadgets and accessories available at Cyberzone in any SM Supermalls.

Let’s reject the wang-wang mentality! 

We definitely agree and we laud the President for issuing Administrative Order No. 18. As public officials, it is our responsibility to set an example to our constituents especially when it comes to dealing with traffic. Huwag na po tayong dumagdag sa kalbaryo ng ating mga kababayang araw-araw na tinitiis ang trapik sa iba’t ibang lugar sa bansa. 

It is also about time to limit the sale of sirens, blinkers, dome lights and other similar emergency devices to vehicles for official use by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, National Bureau of Investigation, Police Departments, Fire Departments, and hospital ambulances only.

STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION DIVISION Commission on Human Rights – Central Office

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) lauds the filing of various bills that seek to establish a National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) in compliance with the Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman, or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (OPCAT). The proposed legislation signifies a crucial step towards addressing the conditions of persons deprived of liberty, which may potentially amount to cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment, or even torture.

Having acceded to the OPCAT since 17 April 2012, the government is mandated to establish a National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) through legislation. In 2016, CHR aimed to create an interim NPM (INPM) to encourage the government to adhere to the mentioned convention and its optional protocol. Subsequently, the INPM has persistently campaigned for the enactment of legislation to establish the national NPM, and has carried out proactive monitoring visits to specific places of deprivation of liberty. The filing of the bills—Senate Bill (SB) No. 2522, SB 2486, House Bill (HB) No. 08780, HB 06305, and HB 08933—further reinforce this commitment and underscores the importance of safeguarding the dignity and well-being of all individuals, especially those in situations of vulnerability.

Our gratitude goes out to the legislators who sponsor the various bills, specifically Senators Manuel “Lito” M. Lapid, Francis N. Tolentino, Ronald “Bato” M. dela Rosa in the Senate of the Philippines, and Representatives Bienvenido M. Abante and Rufus B. Rodriguez in the House of Representatives. By recognizing the importance of establishing an NPM, they demonstrate their commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of individuals deprived of their liberty.

The proposed bills hold the promise of not only fulfilling our international obligations but also of instituting a robust framework for preventive monitoring visits to all places of deprivation of liberty to include mental health institutions and youth rehabilitation facilities. More than a legal obligation, it is a moral imperative to prevent and address any potential instance of mistreatment or abuse to genuinely foster a culture of accountability and respect for human rights in our country.

We urge all stakeholders to support this important legislative endeavor and to work towards the prompt enactment of the NPM bill to signify our collective commitment to the protection and promotion of human rights for all individuals under our care and custody, especially against torture and cruel inhuman degrading treatment or punishment.

FEU Intstitute of Technology Apr 11, 2024

It is not every day we see a classroom turn into a tech startup hub. 

But for FEU Institute of Technology, their FEU TECH Innovation Center (FTIC) is the next generation of university learning that goes beyond conventional classrooms, offering a transformative learning environment.

In 2019, FEU TECH took a more aggressive approach to support entrepreneurship and innovation through its output-based programs. The center provides a space where people can interact with fellow innovators and collaborate on game-changing solutions. FEU TECH aspiring entrepreneurs, whether they are students, faculty, or faculty researchers currently working on their startup ideas, can meet to connect and leverage on the center’s resources to help develop their ideas. 

“FEU TECH Innovation Center’s design is a purposeful blend of aesthetics and functionality,” Gianina Napo, FEU TECH Innovation Center Director for Innovation Programs says. “Our goal is to inspire and support the next generation of changemakers who can shape the future of the Philippines and the world. To support this vision, FEU TECH is creating programs, resources, and support mechanisms to cultivate innovative ideas and facilitate the growth of entrepreneurial prospects from the FEU TECH community.” 

A first within the university belt, the 1,170 square meter hub is situated on the 5th floor of the FEU Engineering Building along Nicanor Reyes Street. It houses specialized function rooms, a shared lounge that doubles as an event space, and a Fabrication Laboratory. The whole center is designed to encourage interaction and idea exchange where students, faculty, and external ecosystem players such as entrepreneurs, researchers, and experts are invited  for learning sessions and events organized and hosted by FEU TECH Innovation Center. 

An Innovative Startup Academy

In 2020, FEU TECH Innovation Center introduced an innovative internship track for students who  aspire to be startup founders. The FEU TECH Innovation Center Startup Academy was designed to equip them with the basics of innovation and building a startup through a structured program while receiving coaching and mentorship. Over 700 aspiring student startup founders were under the program which served as a sandbox for  innovation ideas that still follow a structured, industry-standard manner.

“From the past six cohorts, we have seen a range of diverse startup ideas from our FEU Alabang, FEU Diliman, and FEU TECH students who went through the program. This begins with an application period where students with innovative business ideas apply. Once selected, the incubated student startups are exposed to specialized training sessions and workshops. These learning sessions are facilitated by mentors who provide guidance, share insights, and offer practical advice to help students refine their business ideas,” Napo explains.

An upcoming enhanced incubation and acceleration program will be launched to support tech-enabled pre- and early- stage startups from market validation to commercial success. The program will also grant students access to co-working spaces, prototyping facilities, and collaboration tools for business development. Networking activities and industry meetups will expose them to more entrepreneurs and professionals, culminating in a demo day for potential funding and support.

FEU TECH actively partners with key innovation enablers from both the government and private sectors to expand their network. This provides FEU TECH access to resource persons, experts, and even funding for research projects and startups. These external collaborations enhance their ecosystem and offer students and associates valuable connections in the broader entrepreneurial landscape. Their notable collaborations include startup enablers like the Asian Institute of Management- Dado Banatao Incubator (AIM-DBI), QBO Innovation Hub, and PHILDEV Foundation. 

uccess beyond Classrooms with Student Startups 

DWARM Technologies

DWARM Technologies was tapped to develop their artificial intelligence (AI) powered drone to support the COVID response of the government during the initial days of the pandemic. Supported by a grant from the Philippine Department of Science and Technology and support funding from FEU TECH via the FEU TECH Innovation Center, the AI drone which was primarily developed to improve the government’s search and rescue efforts during calamities was redesigned and used to manage the COVID situation.

Espasyo

Espasyo is a team formed after FEU TECH Innovation Center called for student startups to apply for funding opportunities from the Accenture Innovation Grant. It is an all-in-one system for warehouse spaces for e-commerce businesses that helps users find vacant spaces, reserve, pay and rent them as their storage spaces. It will be using Internet of Things technology (IoT) in managing these warehouse spaces. 

Vehic

Vehic is another student startup team that went through the FEU TECH Innovation Center Startup Academy. Vehic is a 360 solution for the auto care industry that envisions making a one-stop solution for any services related to vehicles. With Vehic’s mobile application, you can order or schedule a car wash anytime, anywhere. Its founder, Mr. Amir Anan, was chosen to be part of the Manila Ventures Program, an accelerator program backed by Kaya Ventures. 

WePyro Tech

WePyro Tech developed a small-scale incinerator that generates energy from the electricity and heat processed during the incineration resulting in waste to energy or energy from waste. It has been hailed as one of the top 10 teams of Ways4Waste Innovation Challenge organized by Villgro Philippines and The Incubation Network.

Shaping Future Technopreneurs

Embracing the challenges of Industry 4.0 and beyond is FEU TECH’s driving force.

The FEU TECH Innovation Center is simply the start of the institution’s efforts in creating future-ready and entrepreneurial lifelong learners.

As the FEU TECH Innovation Center continues to innovate its immersive spaces and startup incubation programs, it creates a legacy that extends beyond classrooms—a legacy of future leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs poised to navigate and thrive in the dynamic landscape of the digital era.

By: Maria Alexandra Marmol

In February 2024, the UP Diliman College of Science Institute of Biology (UPD – CS IB) housed the “Making the Invisible Visible” pop-up exhibition of the citizen science project, Bird Window Strike Philippines. 

Featuring the feathered remains of unlucky birds that had collided into windows, the displays served as poignant and striking visuals for this strange, but common phenomenon. Infographics and posters provided possible solutions and detailed accounts of incidents from up to 290 citizen reports from all around the Philippines.

Bird Window Strike PH first started as a research initiative and passion project under Janina Castro of the Ateneo Institute of Sustainability, the school’s hub for sustainable development, and Jelaine Gan of The UP Wild, an online educational community raising awareness on UP Diliman’s wildlife and green spaces. 

The two had long been avid bird watchers—or “birders”—when the idea formed after Janina rescued a Coppersmith Barbet that had struck a window in the Ateneo de Manila University. She realized that little to no research was being done on bird collisions with windows despite their somewhat common occurrence. Teaming up with Jelaine, the two discussed how they could bring more attention to this issue and what could be done to prevent further collisions. 

Bird collisions with windows can happen when they are misled by either the reflections of trees and the sky on the glass surface or by the view of the environment through the glass. Based on studies by various researchers and the American Bird Conservancy (ABC) database, the most efficient means of prevention involved breaking up the reflection. This could be done by installing stickers at least 1 cm in size, ideally spaced around 5 cm apart. The “Making the Invisible Visible” pop-up exhibition showed other solutions, such as ropes and wire mesh screens for windows. 

“[These solutions are] among the most effective, but this doesn’t mean that these are the only choices,” the Bird Window Strike PH team emphasized. “In the ABC database, there are a number of DIY solutions and commercial solutions that people can choose from.” 

(The ABC database can be found here.)

Citizens from across the country aid in raising awareness on the endangerment of various species, as the Bird Window Strike PH regularly receives incident reports and photos—some of which were part of the exhibit. Pigeons (Columbidae), kingfishers (Alcedinidae), barbets (Megalaimidae), and pittas (Pittidae) were among the most common victims of window collisions.

“In particular, we get a lot of Common Emerald Dove (Chalcophaps indica) and Hooded Pitta (Pitta sordida) in the reports,” they explained. “We don’t know why these birds seem to be colliding more, but some of the explanations in literature are related to increased blue light pollution in cities and to birds’ behavior of moving around different forest patches.”

The citizen science and conservation initiative plans to set up more pop-up exhibitions in the future. By showcasing solutions through these displays and serving as an avenue for incident reports, they hope to reach more people and encourage them to take action in preventing any further accidents.

Keep an eye out for the Bird Window Strike PH’s next exhibit and work on their FB page.

Concerned by the vaccine shortage that puts children at risk for pertussis or whooping cough, Taguig Mayor Lani Cayetano called on the Department of Health (DOH) to urgently address this public health issue.

Mayor Lani demanded a concrete response from the national health department regarding the delivery and availability of necessary vaccines.

“Children are in danger because there is a shortage of vaccines. Kahit hindi pandemic level ito, it is still very alarming. We are asking the Department of Health to provide us with definite answers regarding the availability of vaccines for pertussis,” Mayor Lani said.

The Taguig Mayor voiced concern over the apparent lack of urgency from the DOH in procuring and distributing vaccines, particularly against pertussis, a highly contagious respiratory disease.

She also requested the DOH to reassess their forecasting and procurement processes to prevent such delays in the future.

“Our goal is to vaccinate all children within Taguig’s jurisdiction. However, our efforts are hampered by the insufficient supply provided by the national government,” Mayor Lani said. “It is crucial for us in our City to emphasize the need for transparency and accountability, particularly to reassure our concerned parents.”

Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a dangerous infection spread by coughing that can cause intense coughing fits and a loud breathing sound.

It is very contagious and risky for babies under 6 months old. Symptoms start like a common cold but can get much worse, leading to serious issues like breathing problems and pneumonia. While medicines are available to treat the disease, the best way to prevent it is by getting vaccinated early, following the DTP vaccine schedule starting at six weeks old. Wearing masks in busy places and keeping hands clean are also important to stop the spread and keep everyone safe.

If you are experiencing symptoms of Pertussis, immediately go to the nearest health center or call the Taguig City Command Center at (02) 8789 3200, or the City Epidemiology and Disease Surveillance Unit (CEDSU) at 0919 079 9193 / 0915 164 2742.

PH at risk of becoming ‘vape colony’ with vape industry actively targeting Filipino youth — groups

Jose Francisco Luna

MANILA, Philippines — With the vape and e-cigarette industry targeting Filipino youth, the proposition of turning the Philippines into a manufacturing hub for e-cigarettes puts the country at risk of an epidemic of EVALI or e-cigarette or vape-associated lung injury.

“According to the latest Global Youth Tobacco Survey, approximately 1 out of every 7 Filipino youths aged 13-15 are now using vapes. This alarming trend is not a coincidence but a result of the tobacco industry’s calculated marketing tactics targeting the youth,” pulmonologist Dr. Maricar Limpin of the Action on Smoking and Health, warned during a roundtable discussion with media and young people on Thursday in Makati.

To recall, the Department of Trade and Industry touted the country as a potential hub for manufacturing heated tobacco before the international community at the International Tobacco Agricultural Summit in August 2023.

“We will not sit idly by and turn a blind eye to the predatory practices of this industry. By allowing the Philippines to position itself as a manufacturing hub, we are essentially paving the way for an EVALI epidemic,,” Limpin said. “It was just one case in 2019, but we’re beginning to observe more and more cases today, especially among young people,” she added.

EVALI is a medical condition causing lung damage from substances contained from vaping products. While there is no available data on the number of cases of EVALI and related injuries and deaths in the Philippines, the Department of Health (DOH) recorded the first case in the country in November 2019: a 16-year-old girl from the Visayas who was using both vape and cigarettes. As of February 2020, more nearly 3,000 patients had been admitted to hospitals in the United States due to EVALI, with 68 deaths reported so far.

“You’d expect this smoking behavior from a middle-aged smoker, but we saw it in a 16-year-old. With how accessible vapes are, tobacco is now an issue for children, too, and the growing EVALI cases are proof,” Dr. Riz Gonzalez, chair of the Philippine Pediatric Society Tobacco and Nicotine Control Advocacy Group said as she called on lawmakers to revisit the vape law, which transfers regulatory jurisdiction over vapes and other novel tobacco products from the Food and Drug Administration to the DTI.

“The tobacco industry is actively targeting the youth with flavors, colorful packaging, and misleading marketing tactics, and the free rein they get from the Vape Law is to blame. We’ve seen this playbook before with cigarettes, and we cannot allow an EVALI crisis to happen here in the Philippines.”

At the tenth Conference of Parties to the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention for Tobacco Control last February in Panama, Manila’s delegation received the “Dirty Ashtray award” from civic watchdogs for delaying proceedings by up to three hours.

“Our delegation simply failed to uphold public health. Instead of advocating for reducing tobacco use, they proposed a ‘compromise’ which prioritizes profit over public health. The tobacco lobby’s hand is obvious,” said Au Quilala, Deputy Executive Director of the Philippine Legislators’ Committee on Population and Development.

“We urge the government to prioritize the people over the interests of the industry by restricting these tactics targeting children. If this continues, the Philippines could end up becoming a vape colony,” Quilala finished.