AguELECTIONS 2009: Socio-Cultural Committee Chairperson

In time for the AguELECTIONS 2009, the Electoral Board is releasing comprehensive Candidate Profiles for all the nominees. This includes their Specific Plan of Action (SPOA) and a few questions prepared by the Electoral Board. The said Candidate Profiles are released in various platforms for maximum reach. This aims to aid all members in truly making an informed decision in determining the officers for the Executive Council 2009-2010.

SOME REMINDERS:
*ELECTION is on Thursday, March 12, with a Miting De Avance at 5:45pm.
*The members are expected to have read all the Candidate Profiles by then.
*PDF copies of the Candidate Profiles will be emailed in the resident mailing list, too.
*Hard copies are also available at the tambayan starting Tuesday, March 10.
*Read everything! Make an informed decision.



SPECIFIC PLAN OF ACTION

S-OCIO
Away from brain-wrecking exams and other acads stuff, most of us usually spend our time exchanging stories with the Agupips. I bet that indeed, UP Aguman has been a family for most of us. And, in our desire to further “promote the spirit of kinship”, I believe that activities such as an inter-committee sports fest would be worthwhile.
Socio Comm. will organize an Inter-committee Sports Fest or an Amazing Race which may be scheduled on the week of UP Aguman’s anniversary. If everybody’s schedule and our budget may permit, we can also have other events or activities on the same week along with Mutya ning Aguman.
We will cooperate with the Externals committee so we may also invite the alumni to participate in this our celebration.

O-RDERLINESS
I believe that our tambayan has become the home of this family. Here is where we spent time to relax after a long and busy day. That’s why, as a responsibility of the Socio Comm., the orderliness of the tambayan will be of much concern to my SPOA.
A. Bulletin Board
We will make our bulletin board more organized and functional. We will post the scheduled events for the month so everyone may be reminded.
We will also try to provide a small white board so we may post immediate or emergency announcements. With this, even those who can’t take time to stay in the tambayan and check out important matters written on the log book may also be updated. They may just simply pass by our tambayan and be instantly informed of important matters.
We will cooperate with the Records and Pub. Comm. for the maintenance of the bulletin.
B. Cabinet
We will fix the cabinet so we may maximize their purpose. We may use this to secure important documents or simply to serve as an organizer for Aguproperties and other stuff. We will also provide padlocks so as to make safe these properties.
If Batch Pinanari08A may agree, we may procure another cabinet/ organizer/ rack for our bags which shall serve as our batch project.
C. Cleaning Materials
We also believe that cleaning materials such as dust pan and broom would be of much help in maintaining the cleanliness in our tambayan.
Now, when it comes to maintenance, (although it may sound so “high school”) we are hoping that everyone would agree to assign a committee per day which will take charge of keeping the orderliness, if not cleaning the tambayan. Yet, self-discipline is still imposed.
We would include this as well on the schedule for the month.

C-ULTURAL
As the primary provincial student organization of Pampanga, we are responsible for actively participating, as well as organizing activities that will further develop, revive and promote the Capampangan culture and artistry. In line with this, we may further improve the activities that we have by collaborating with other organizations in Pampanga, concern with the same matters.
A. SINING
As one of the major events of this organization, headed by the socio-cultural committee, SINING will be of much concern in my SPOA. We will settle all matters so as to fix the foreseen problems. We will create and follow a specific time table for the preparations so that we may avoid cramming things and other stuff.
1. Events
I suggest that we shall have the declamation contest on the first day, along with other speech competitions including impromptu speech and crisotan. Poetry and essay writing, poster making and still life drawing will still be on the first day.
On one hand, solo singing,interpretative dance, modern steet dance and rockoustic will remain on the second day.
(If our time and budget will allow, we can have additional events.)
2. Criteria
We will do the necessary revisions/modifications with our criteria so we may make ourselves clear and not be bothered by texts and calls from schools, clarifying the criteria.
3. Theme and topics
We will try to come up with the theme and the individual topics for the different events as early as possible. We will call a brainstorming session in one or two of our general meetings for this purpose, perhaps on the first or second month of the second semester.
4. STS Letters and Posters
We will release and distribute the STS letters among the schools in Pampanga on the first week of classes for the month of January. We scheduled this on this particular week because we assume that our schedule for acads would still be loose by this time since it’s just the beginning of the year.
For the distribution, we will divide the schools among ourselves. That means, we will assign schools that are nearest to the place of residence of every member. With this system, we can divide the job equally and disseminate the information properly. Every member is also expected to get the numbers and e-mail addresses of the schools assigned to him/her for follow-ups. We are doing this to achieve a higher percent of participation from these schools.
5. Judges
With the Educ. Comm., we will give extra effort on this. We will release the letters for the judges as early as the second quarter of the month of November so we may have a longer time working on this matter. With this, we can immediately look for other judges if ever some may turn down our invitations.
6. Division of Labor
Work will be clearly defined and properly distributed among the members. We are expecting that everyone will function according to the tasks assigned to him/her before and most especially during the event. This will be strictly followed so as to put things in order and keep the event smooth-flowing.
7. Venue, Time and Date
As usual, we will hold Sining on the month of February.
This time, it will be held at Don Bosco Academy, Sining 2009’s champion. Second day’s venue still largely hangs on the arrangements and negotiations with the management of SM Clark. We’ll also see if we can consider SM Pampanga and Robinson’s as alternatives.
We will also ask for a clear statement of terms and conditions of the management so we may be guided by this.
We will strictly follow the schedule of the program during the day itself so we may get rid of not so good feedbacks from coaches and participating schools.

B. Other Cultural Events
With the help of the Externals Committee, we will also do our best to take part in other activities inside and outside the academe which can serve as venues for promoting the Capampangan Culture. We will also coordinate with various organizations in Pampanga which share the same concerns and aspirations with us, and be updated with other advocacies and events by these institutions through the help of Records and Publications Comm.

I-NVENTORY
As the custodian of the properties of the organization, Socio Comm. will provide an official list of the properties and supplies of the organization.

O-RG. SUPPLIES
We will also provide the basic supplies that we usually need in the tambayan. These include pens, scissors, scotch tape/stapler, bond papers, pentelpen/white board marker etc.

QUESTIONS FROM THE ELECTORAL BOARD
With sufficient details, describe UP TO TWO (2) a situation/instance in the past wherein you exhibited significant, if not deep, know-how on the position you are running for.
1. When I was in 4th year, I myself became a participant in Sining. As a contestant then, I knew now how it is to be on the shoes of the participants. And, now that I’m already a member and an aspiring Socio-cultural Head, I believe that I can do the necessary adjustments to make the experience for the contestants more interesting.
2. I also actively participated in the previous Sining 2009 by observing and having a hands-on experience of the “real action” before and during the event itself. I also believe that I put an extra effort on making it a successful event in my own ways such as going personally at San Lorenzo Ruiz, Pampanga High School and University of the Assumption,even all by my self, just to bring to them the STS letters.

Enumerate UP TO FIVE (5) concrete and feasible steps to encourage cooperation and attendance of members during GenMeets and org activities.
1. Text Brigades- bombard them with text brigs
2. Follow-up those who are not attending the meetings by sending them personal messages from time to time, asking them the reasons for not attending
3. Appeal to emotions? Konsensyan ta la!haha

Enumerate UP TO FIVE (5) unwritten but classic and expected skills in your position? Sanu kareni ing atin naka, sanu reng pagsikapan mu pa rin for now?
1. public relations (atin na?)
2. public speaking (atin na)
3. computer (kulang pa…ala ku kasing computer eh)
4. arts and craft (atin na)
5. managing work force (kulang pa)

Enumerate UP TO FIVE (5) specific mini-tasks or advanced preparation that you can do during the summer vacation, to efficiently jumpstart orgwork come 1st semester.
1. reviewing and evaluating the SPOA of the previous terms
2. doing a complete and updated directory of the members
3. asking for pieces of advice from previous terms
4. reviewing the financial accounts regarding the budget that was used in last term’s projects
5. collecting other documents such as STS letters, invitations for the judges, etc.

Given your SPOA, give UP TO FIVE (5) currentlyoccurring problems that will most probably be the worst hindrances for you to implement or realize your SPOA.
1. lack of cooperation among members
2. budget insufficiency
Also specify your steps to avert these hindrances.
1. encourage the mems to attend meetings
2. extra effort on looking for sponsors
3. ask help from other Capampangan cultural institutions

Define “batch unity” and “family spirit”. When are these two concepts relevant and when are they not?
Batch unity is when you see everyone give his/her extra effort to make every task lighter and every challenge successful while family spirit is when you see everyone happy, growing as a person, at peace. They are relevant in such a way that if you can feel that spirit of family, it would be easy for you to really put an extra effort to establish that unity. They are not when we begin to separate personal matters from our responsibilities.

"Senior members are the Atche’s ampong Koya’s keng org that we can look up to, as people, as members and as mentors.” Agree or disagree? Why? In what way/s? Explain.
In a way I agree, because they have the necessary experience that can somehow serve as guides for us in making decisions and handling things although I believe that the last decision will still be on a person’s own hands.

In what concrete and specific ways or practices do you live by our core values of truth, faith, kinship and service, as an individual person in the AguFamily. You can give UP TO TWO (2) ways per core value.
Faith—when we face problems, like the lack of budget, I personally remain positive and encourage others as to believe that God will help us through, for as long as we put our “full” trust on Him (does it sound so dramatic?...but, its true)
Kinship—when I make decisions, I ask some of the mems for advice because I value that level of connection that we have



SPECIFIC PLAN OF ACTION

TAMBAYAN FACE LIFT- We will attend to matters concerning the CLEANLINESS and ORDERLINESS of our beloved “home”
Clean ups- more clean-ups would be done to prevent the accumulation of clutter and dust bunnies
Organized Space- stacking areas would be fixed to avoid losing org materials and piling up of trash

AGU KITS- We will provide kits that will keep our supplies sorted and classified
Cleaning Kit- brooms, rags, and other simple cleaning materials would be provided to keep the tambayan spic and span.
Tool Box- The ‘Tool Box’ would keep all the event materials organized so we could all be in track with them. Our expenses would be lessened since this would prevent regular buying of such materials.

TEEzers- We will produce CHEAPER shirts to showcase org pride, and if possible, to have a source of income

THE COMMITTEE- Coordination starts in the committee level. We will keep all members WELL-INFORMED regarding all tasks being done by the committee. Awareness would be increased by utilizing communication media such as meetings, text brigades, and emails. In that way, everybody would KNOW all undertakings and IGNORANCE would not be an acceptable excuse.

SINING 2010
Improvements for the next SINING:
*revise the rules by consulting advisers to avoid complaints from the contestants as well as from the judges
*push through with new events (digital graphic design, fashion design, song writing, etc.)
*include the definition of technical terms (such as MODERN, ACOUSTIC, CRISOTAN) to avoid confusion from everybody!!

QUESTIONS FROM THE ELECTORAL BOARD
With sufficient details, describe UP TO TWO (2) a situations/instances in the past wherein you exhibited significant, if not deep, know-how on the position you are running for.
I have been exposed to the world of art for a sufficient time now to know how to handle an art event like SINING.I have been part of outreaches, contests, workshops, exhibits, and perfomances as a participant and as an organizer.

Enumerate UP TO FIVE (5) concrete and feasible steps to encourage cooperation and attendance of members during GenMeets and org activities.
A solution for this is to REQUIRE ATTENDANCES. We could set an attendance quota for the events and meetings say, at least 2 GenMeets per month for each member. Failure to comply with these requirements would have a corresponding penalty. The worst case could be the jeopardy of one’s membership.
I think this is a desperate measure na kapag naging sobrang pasaway na ng mems. As of now, napupuno pa naman ang circle bench ng old tambayan kapag GenMeets. Ang usual excuse ng mga hindi nakakarating ay acad-related stuff. If so, tulungan natin sila, if we could in any way. AND let’s just avoid personal quarrels para mas ma-tighten pa ang ating family bond. MAGTULUNGAN at MAGMAHALAN.

Enumerate UP TO FIVE (5) unwritten but classic and expected skills in your position? Sanu kareni ing atin naka, sanu reng pagsikapan mupa rin for now?
1.CREATIVE- I believe there are always new solutions to old problems. Kailangan ito ng Socio-head para maayos ang age-old problems ng Sining, ng tambayan, at ng org.
2.GRACE-UNDER-TIME PRESSURE WORKER- Sa dinami-dami na ng cramming moments ko, i have learned how to change original plans without sacrificing the quality to meet the deadlines. Siyempre, kailangan paring iwasan ito dahil marami paring ibang bagay na mahirap i-cram.

Enumerate UP TO FIVE (5) specific mini-tasks or advanced preparation that you can do during the summer vacation, to efficiently jumpstart orgwork come 1st semester.
PLAN.PLAN.PLAN. Plan for the bulletin board design, org shirts, costs of materials, etc. Lahat ng ideas would be put down on paper. The real world is process-oriented itself. Kailangan ng initials plans, the right programming, the right breaking down of schedules para may time for error-consultations and for improvements. Take it from me, I know mahirap magcram.

Given your SPOA, give UP TO FIVE (5) currently occurring problems that will most probably be the worst hindrances for you to implement or realize your SPOA. Also specify your steps to avert these hindrances.
1. MONEY- Wala talagang mararating kapag walang pera. MAGTIPID. TUMULONG sa fund raisings. MAGBAYAD ng mga utang.
2. MAN POWER- When you think about it, madali lang ang mga activities natin basta’t marami tayong nagtutulungan. We just fall short on our working force.Kaya,
3. MISCOMMUNICATION- If there would be people who would not understand (or refuse to understand) the tasks that need to done, patay tayo dyan. A solution would be to spread the info thoroughly. Spread lang ng spread. Para wala ng excuses.

Define “batch unity” and “family spirit”. When are these two concepts relevant and when are they not?
Batch unity is essential when your batch or a member of your batch faces problems in the batch level lang. In the org level, family spirit should be prioritized. Regarding org issues, I think it is not right to make final decisions with the reason “Ah, sige, dahil batchmate ko siya, kakampihan ko siya.” Choose to know what or who is right.

“Senior members are the Atche’s ampong Koya’s keng org that we can look up to, as people, as members and as mentors.” Agree or disagree? Why? In what way/s?
I certainly agree (referring to those ACTIVE senior members). I believe experience is still the best teacher. They know more because they have seen and experienced for a longer time the ups and downs of Aguman. For the invisible members, I don’t think they should be looked up to since they do not enforce the core values of the org.

In what concrete and specific ways or practices do you live by our core values of truth, faith, kinship and service,as an individual person in the AguFamily. You can give UP TO TWO (2) ways per core value.
TRUTH- Everything written in here is SIMPLE, SINCERE and TRUE. I have not written anything false before (in sigsheets, in logbooks) and I never will.
FAITH- I have faith and trust sa mga Agupips. Kapag nagiiwan ako ng gamit or plates ko sa tambayan, nagtitiwala akong hindi nila sisirain iyon. HAHA.
KINSHIP- Daig pa ng Agupips ang tunay kong kapatid dahil mas nasasabihan ko pa sila ng life happenings ko. HAHAHA.
SERVICE- Not being an inactive member ever is a simple action. I know balancing AGU with the other aspects of life is hard, but it is FUN.

Reviving the Crisotan

By Denesse Handumon

Originally printed in the Aslag: Sining 2009 Edition

Being in high school meant laboriously spending hours putting up with Balagtas’ Florante at Laura and the undying Filipino classic, Ibong Adarna. Both books are complete with the timeless and most of the time, supernatural struggle for love and the eternal battle between good and evil. Amazingly, both books have followed the proper measurement and rhyme in telling these stories in poetry. It’s actually commonplace to read poems of love and war but has it occurred to you that debating about salient topics could be also in the form of poetry? Most of us know Balagtasan, an argumentative verse usually recited during town fiestas.

The ingenious Kapampangans made their own version of the Balagtasan two years after it was conceived. As Robby Tantingco puts it, “The Kapampangans were so at home with poetry that they even debated in verse.” They named this verbal joust, Crisotan in honor of Juan Crisosotomo Soto. The term was actually coined by Amado Yuzon, the founder of Aguman Crisot who was also hailed Ari ning Crisotan from 1930 until 1979. The first ever Crisotan was held, not in Pampanga, but rather in Sta. Cruz, Manila where Yuzon himself moderated between Lino Dizon and Nicasio Dungo.

Interestingly, the Crisotan though extemporaneous as it may appear, is actually a well-rehearsed debate. It is usually participated by three individuals: the two opposing debaters and a moderator. The entire debate is composed of eight rounds. Each round contains two stanzas each with eight rhymed lines which may be composed of twelve or sixteen syllables. Debate topics range from the importance of gold or steel to the issue of from who does a student learn better, from a strict or a kind mentor and even to the still relevant issue of the appropriateness of making gambling legal.

Sadly, The Crisotan like many other Filipino traditions is slowly dying. The poets who once graced town fiestas with their passionate debates are now in the twilight years of their lives and the advent of the modern era has made the young Kapampangans forget about this impressive tradition. The UP Aguman recognized this and decided to include the Crisotan as one its events in the annual Sining competition. In doing such, it has helped in bringing the Crisotan back to the consciousness of the young generation of the Kapampangans, hopefully igniting their interest in this tradition which we can proudly say is genuinely Kapampangan.


ABOVE: Crisotan 2009. The contestants present the Crisotan piece
"Kaninu ing Parsala" by Rafael Maniago during Sining 2009 Day 1.

DBA wins overall championship of Sining 2009

February 21, 2009 – The second day of Sining 2009 proved to be a wonderful showcase of Kapampangan youth talent as contestants from 11 different high schools of Pampanga showed up at The Event Centre of SM City Clark for the 5 remaining competitions of Sining 2009.

The participating schools were:
Angeles University Foundation – Integrated School (AUFIS)
Brightwoods School (BWS)
Don Bosco Academy (DBA)
Holy Angel University (HAU)
New Era University (NEU)
Pampanga High School (PHS)
San Lorenzo Ruiz Center of Studies & Schools (SLRCSS)
School of the Infant Jesus – Dau (SIJ)
St Ann Colleges (SAC)
St Mutien College (SMC)
St Scholastica’s Academy (SSA)

Like in Day 1 last February 7, record number of competition entries registered for the Declamation (7), Solo Singing (15), Interpretative Dance (7), Modern Streetdance (9) and Rockoustic Band Competitions (9). The mall-goers at SM City Clark were surely entertained the whole afternoon and evening as the contestants bravely showcased their talent in the performing arts.


LEFT: Wowed. The SM City Clark audience enjoyed watching the performances.
RIGHT: High Intensity Win. HAU accept their Championship trophy in the Interpretative Dance Competition

Here’s the final and complete list of winners from all the events, from Day 1 to Day 2:

Essay Writing – English
"The Kapampangan language 50 years from now"
CHAMPION: Clarisse Katrin Ducusin (SSA)
2nd: Maria Nareen Mendoza (SSA)
3rd: Jhonry Dela Cruz (UA)

Essay Writing – Filipino
"Ang wikang Kapampangan 50 taon mula ngayon"
CHAMPION: Mara Louella Sangilan (UA)
2nd: Kayla Camacho (SSA)
3rd: Merry Gel Sigui (NEU)

Poetry Writing – English
"Who is a Kapampangan?"
CHAMPION: John Verlin Mayday (NEU)
2nd: Jose Mari De Jesus (PHS)
3rd: Ma. Katrina Gaylord Marcos (SLRCSS)

Poetry Writing – Filipino
"Sino ang Kapampangan?"
CHAMPION: Rhea Camille Malang (AUFIS)
2nd: Maria Carla Canlas (SSA)
3rd: Madison Dominguez (DBA)

Art Photography
“Modern Kapampangan”
CHAMPION: Katrina Mae Lim (BWS)
2nd: Ian Paulo Punzalan (DBA)
3rd: Lorenz Dale Rances (SLRCSS)

Poster Making
"The importance of language in preserving one's culture"
CHAMPION: Gia Mae Malonzo (SSA)
2nd: Angela Panlilio (AUFIS)
3rd: Leona Trishia Cortez (SSA)

Still Life Drawing
CHAMPION: Stephanie Manuel (SSA)
2nd: Ernanie Marin (PHS)
3rd: Sun Jung-Youn (BWS)

Impromptu Speech – English
“How does the Global economic crisis affect you as a student?”
CHAMPION: Abriam Josh Esteban (AUFIS)
2nd: Hil Petersen Vargas (DBA)
3rd: Katrina Cuaresma (SLRCSS)

Impromptu Speech – Filipino
“Ano ang epekto ng multilingualism sa pag-unlad ng wikang Kapampangan”
CHAMPION: Mheanne Celis (SSA)
2nd: Antoneth Castillejos (AUFIS)
3rd: Jericko Samson (UA)

Crisotan
Kaninu ing Parsala by Rafael Maniago
CHAMPION: Renc Dizon, Rose Ann Calma, Cristine Jenel Cruz (NEU)
2nd: Charmaine Manlapaz, Bettina DeLeon, Claire Cochon (AUFIS)
3rd: Archie Dela Cruz, Francis Panganiban, Albert Gomez (DBA)

Declamation
I Am A Filipino
CHAMPION: Hil Petersen Vargas (DBA)
2nd: Al Thomas Patawaran (SLRCSS)
3rd: Alyanna Marie Bermudo (NEU)

Solo Singing
CHAMPION: Karl Andrew Sicat (PHS)
2nd: Bettina De Leon (AUFIS)
3rd: Mark Jolly Mallari (SLRCSS)

Interpretative Dance
“Mirrong the past, Reflecting the future”
CHAMPION: High Intensity Performers (HAU)
2nd: Teatro Busko (DBA)
3rd: Eraians (NEU)

Modern Streetdance
CHAMPION: Intensity 8 (DBA)
2nd: NEU Streetdance (NEU)
3rd: AUFIS Dance Club (AUFIS)

Rockoustic Band
CHAMPION: Free To Play (BWS)
2nd: Equinox (DBA)
3rd: Mighty Band (NEU)


LEFT: Mall Show. The rockoustic performance of Free To Play (BWS) was like a professional mall show.
RIGHT: Day 1 Big Winners. The Scholasticans were the big winners for most of the Day 1 events. They placed 2nd overall.

After tabulating the points garnered by the winners from the 15 different competitions, Don Bosco Academy emerged as the Sining 2009 Overall Champion. SSA came in a very close second while AUFIS placed third. Bosconians rejoiced excitedly as they went into stage to receive their school's trophy.

OVERALL TALLY
DBA – 100 pts
SSA – 95
AUFIS – 85
NEU – 80
BWS – 40
PHS – 35
SLRCSS – 30
UA – 25
HAU – 20


LEFT: Another success. The AguPips take a pose after a successful major project!
RIGHT: Stepping it up. DBA's streetdance crew show off their dance moves after being declared the Streetdance Champion.

Sining 2009 is present to you by:
UP Aguman
The only and official organization of Kapampangan students from UP Diliman

Co-Presented by:
Lirna Tiatco, CPA

Also brought to you by:
Roymed Pharmaceuticals
Cerealicious (SM City Pampanga & AUF Branches)
Zen Zest (SM City Clark, SM City Pampanga & Nepo Mall branches)
Brgy. Captain Arien Carreon

UP Aguman would also like to thank:
Bags O'Beads
Cy Bautista (Kaputul 2004A)
Balibago Waterworks
Susie's Cuisine
Dondon Dy (Baskal 2007A)
Sikrams & Bitrams
Dominador Quizon
CreamLine
Waterbest
Rosing's Candy Store

The Event Called "Sining"

By Jeremiah Torrico

I can still remember back in high school, I heard my classmates planned to join this certain art competition. They were saying that this would be organized by students from UP Diliman, and that they were excited about joining. They told me every detail they know about it and, based from those, I thought it was just a usual type of art contest; you make your art, wait for it to be judged, and win (although, of course, the possibility of losing should also be prepared for). There was nothing unusual on it for me. Even its name, which literally means art in Filipino, also made me think of it as a normal contest suitable for amateur high school artists. Somewhat a typical high school competition where you do your best to grab the gold and brag about it. I never knew much about this Sining. Not until I went to college and join the UP Aguman.

During my first semester of being a member of the UP Aguman, I was invited to be a part of the ad hoc committee for the Sining 2007. I was so excited because I thought it would be an easy task just looking over a high school event, making colorful backdrops and props, watching the contestants do their thing while waiting excitedly (and impatiently) over who’s going to win. I was convinced that Sining was nothing but a mere art competition where high school students showcase their artistic prowess just to find out who’s the best at the end of the day. Until one time, I realized there was something different, something sort of consistent. The contest events in Sining seem to have something in common. They appear to focus on things that made the whole competition stand out among all the other art contests I’ve ever known. Their themes were all about things that I am very much aware about, things that are not uncommon to me. These things that have been part of me, things that I have taken for granted—being Kapampangan and being proud of it.

Sining, as it turns out, is an event that aims to incorporate the Kapampangan identity in showcasing the artistic endowments of young Kapampangan student artists as a way of uplifting and preserving the Kapampangan culture. It was then that I realized why the contest event Crisotan was given too much priority in Sining. It was actually during my first time to participate in Sining when I first heard of Crisotan. I thought it was just a Kapampangan version of the ever famous Balagtasan, but its implications reflect more than that. These events like Crisotan are more than just gateways of talents but are means of continuing the legacy of Kapampangan artistry that our Kapampangan ancestors initiated.

The other Sining events, on the other hand, seem to be in shape for different purposes. A friend of mine once asked me, “If this Sining is really Kapampangan oriented, then why do you hold events using languages other than Kapampangan?” He surely was referring to events like the poetry writing, impromptu speech, essay writing and declamation, all of which require the contestants to use either the English or Filipino language. It really was difficult to answer such an implicative question, but come to think of it, I was able to understand that these events were really not intended solely for the preservation of the Kapampangan heritage. Nevertheless, it doesn’t necessarily mean that these events are not in line with the goals of Sining. Instead, they are actually means of achieving the main objective of Sining; to allow young Kapampangan student artists to uphold their Kapampangan identity amidst the changing social trends brought about by foreign influences. Nowadays, educational curriculums dictate students to use only the English and Filipino language as the medium of instruction. Recognizing this is the reason why Sining opted to make some of its events in parallel with educational institutions in choosing the language to be used. By these, the greatest, most inevitable challenge of change is being considered. Nonetheless, Sining is able to set the momentum stable in maintaining its focus on the Kapampangan culture by integrating Kapampangan social issues on its themes, emphasizing the importance of the perspective of Kapampangans towards these predicaments.

Beyond doubt, Sining has been able to make important contributions in uplifting the Kapampangan legacy, at the same time recognizing the fact that artistry should always go hand-in-hand with socio-cultural concerns. Sining may not be the best art competition, but it is undoubtedly the perfect venue in showcasing the Kapampangan culture, artistry and talents.

Day 2, February 21, 2009, SM City Clark
Featuring the following competitions:
Declamation
Solo Singing
Interpretative Dance
Modern Streetdance
Rockoustic Band

AUFIS leads Sining 2009 Day 1 winners

February 7, 2009 – The first day of Sining 2009 was held at the New Era University with a total of 9 schools enlisting for the 10 different competitions.

Angeles University Foundation – Integrated School (AUFIS)
Brightwoods School (BS)
Don Bosco Academy (DBA)
New Era University (NEU)
Pampanga High School (PHS)
San Lorenzo Ruiz Center of Studies & Schools (SLRCSS)
St Mutien College (SMC)
St Scholastica’s Academy (SSA)
University of the Assumption (UA)

The contestant turnout was bigger this year for almost all the events: Art Photography (7 entries), Essay Writing – English (17), Essay Writing – English (18), Poetry Writing – English (16), Poetry Writing – Filipino (16), Poster Making (15), Still Life Drawing (16), Impromptu Speech – English (8), Impromptu Speech – Filipino (8) and Crisotan (4).

The winners for Impromptu Speech Competitions for English and Filipino and the Crisotan were immediately announced after they were held and AUFIS.

Impromptu Speech – English
“How does the Global economic crisis affect you as a student?”
CHAMPION: Abriam Josh Esteban (AUFIS)
2nd: Hil Petersen Vargas (DBA)
3rd: Katrina Cuaresma (SLRCSS)
Judges: Anril Tiatco, Ana Marie Alfelor, Jen Castro & Wendell Capili

Impromptu Speech – Filipino
“Ano ang epekto ng multilingualism sa pag-unlad ng wikang Kapampangan”
CHAMPION: Mheanne Celis (SSA)
2nd: Antoneth Castillejos (AUFIS)
3rd: Jericko Samson (UA)
Judges: Arvee Salazar-Cruz, Homer Gallardo, Francisco Guinto

Crisotan
Kaninu ing Parsala by Rafael Maniago
CHAMPION: Renc Dizon, Rose Ann Calma, Cristine Jenel Cruz (NEU)
2nd: Charmaine Manlapaz, Bettina DeLeon, Claire Cochon (AUFIS)
3rd: Archie Dela Cruz, Francis Panganiban, Albert Gomez (DBA)
Judges: Francisco Guintu, Homer Gallardo, Erlinda Cruz

OVERALL TALLY as of Day 1
AUFIS – 40 pts
DBA – 20 pts
NEU – 20 pts
SSA – 15 pts
SLRCSS – 5 pts
UA – 5 pts


LEFT: Team Registration. The AguPips man the Registration Table.
RIGHT: Mirroring the future. The crystal vase is the object in the Still Life Drawing Competition.


LEFT: I, Write. One rooms of the writing events for Sining 2009.
RIGHT: Sining 2009 Audience. The audience witness the showcase of talent at the NEU Hall.

Aguman joins ICUP's Kalye Kultura 2009

January 30, 2009 -- Once again, the UP Aguman participated in "Kalye Kultura 2009", a cultural event organized by the International Club of UP. Now on its 2nd year, this event aims to celebrate local and foreign cultures and was held at the Tres Marias Area, behind the UP Ampitheatre.

Eight other organizations joined the event: UP Students for Christ (an organization founded by Koreans), UP SOCCSKSARGEN, UP Gimpong, UP Le Club Francais, UP Deutscher Verein, UP Piccola Italia, UP Club Ecotour and UP Tourism Management Society.

The different participating organizations decorated the booths assigned to them and prepared food and games that showcases the culture highlighted by their organizations. Among the interesting food and beverage offered were wine, brewed coffee, pizza slices and spicy seafood.

When it participated in last year's "Kalye Kultura", UP Aguman served tocino ang sisig. This year, famous Kapampangan sweets were showcased. These included turrones de casoy, uraro and other candies. The booth also a 'freedom wall' that asked the guests to translate the Kapampangan phrase "Asapu ke ing bola keng lalam ning tete". Both the AguPips and guests had a laugh at the different funny and outrageous interpretation by non-Kapampangan speakers. Three people managed to accurately translate the phrase and won P50 worth of prepaid load.

Intermission numbers included performances by KontraGapi and the UP SFC band.


LEFT: Proud Kapampangans. The AguPips entertain the guests at the UP Aguman booth.
RIGHT: Literally, Kalye Kultura. The rest of the org booths showcase a wide array of cultures.

FOR MORE PHOTOS, CLICK HERE!

Sining 2009 Schedule of Events

DAY 1 - February 7, New Era University
8:00am Registration
9:00 Opening Ceremonies
10:00 DEADLINE: Entries for Art Photography
10:00-11:30 Impromptu Speech Competition (English)
10:00-12:00 Essay Writing Competition (English)
Essay Writing Competition (Filipino)
LUNCHBREAK
1:00-2:30pm Impromptu Speech Competition (Filipino)
1:00-4:00 Still Life Drawing Competition
Poster Making Competition
Poetry Writing Competition (English)
Poetry Writing Competition (Filipino)
2:30-4:00 Crisotan


DAY 2 - February 21, SM City Clark
10:00am Registration
11:00 Opening Ceremonies
11:30 Declamation Competition
12:30pm** Solo Singing Competition
2:00** Interpretative Dance Competition
3:00** Modern Street Dance Competition
4:00** Rockoustic Band Competition
Intermission numbers
5:30** Awarding Ceremonies

**Approximate times only. Actual schedule depends on number of participants in competitions before it. There will be 5-10-minute breaks in between competitions for any setup changes.

Sining 2009 coming this February

February 7, 2009 - New Era University
February 21, 2009 - SM City Clark

To join and for more inquiries:
Text JER 0927 803 3350, JEN 0915 331 5457

UP Aguman co-presents a Language Forum

December 9, 2008 – In line with the celebration of it’s 35th founding anniversary, the UP Aguman accepted the invitation to co-present a language forum entitled Ing Kálam ning Amanung Sisuan: A Closer Look at Philippine Language Problems. The other organizations behind the forum are SALiGAN sa CSSP, UP Samahang Linggwistika and STAND-UP. It was held at 1pm at the Multi-Media Room of CSSP, PH 400.

There were three invited speakers for the said forum: Jason Paul Laxamana (from Kalalangan Kamaru), Prof. Ramon Guillermo (Department of Filipino) and Ricardo Ma. Nolasco, PhD (Department of Linguistics). While the forum focused on the Kapampangan language, the speakers also discussed the many issues and problems faced by the many languages in the Philippines in general. Studies on the languages used as mediums of instruction among Philippine schools and the corresponding effects were also presented. USC Councilor and UP Aguman member Rose Angelique Dizon also graced the event as the Student Reactor. Kontra Gapi performed an intermission number during the break.

Just like in Aguman’s 1st Semester ACLE regarding the Kapampangan language, the first Kapampanganovela Kálam was also screened for the audience to showcase the reinvigoration of the cultural and language awareness in Pampanga.

UP Aguman makes its grand return in the ACLE

By Kenshin

August 14, 2008 -- The UP Aguman participated again at the UPD University Student Council's Alternative Classroom Learning Experience (ACLE) and featured Kálam, the first ever Kapampangan TV series.

After not being able to participate for a year from the traditional university event, presenting a broader sense of the Kapampangan spirit to centennial year through the discussion and screening of the Kálam has been the main goal of the organization.

In line with this, Educational Committee Chairperson Ferdinand Mallari, Jr and Socio-Cultural Committee Chairperson Jeremiah Torrico invited Jason Paul Laxamana (head of the Kapampangan youth group "Kalalangan Kamaru" and the writer-director of Kálam), Mau Aquino (General Manager of Infomax 8, the channel where Kálam will be shown), three out of the seven lead actors and other staff of the production team, for a discussion of broadcasting and the role it plays with the cultivation and restoration of our sense of ethnicity not only with thoughts but also in our actions. To the delight of the audience, the full first episode of Kálam was shown for the first time. It was also discussed how the use of our own native language can enhance the effects of regional broadcasting with its target audience.

Kálam, being the first ever Kapampangan-oriented TV series, aims to restore the now fluctuating Kapampangan cultural awareness of our youth due to being exposed to popular culture and teach the Kapampangan younger generation the things that we our unconsciously forgetting.



Left: Jer and Buduy join the two speakers, Ms. Mau Aquino and Jason Laxamana.
Right: Prof. Nilo Ocampo, with other guests, listens attentively to the speakers.

Kálam which literally means "gift", tells the story of a young man named Yubs who possesses a supernatural gift. At first, he didn't actually realize the extent nor the use of his ability except as a way to exact revenge to those who bully him because of his somewhat unusual background, until a group of other "gifted" individuals started to reach out to him and invited him to be a part of their movement. And thus starts his journey to self-searching which leads to other "exciting" people as well as events that may change the course of his life.

The actual TV premiere of the program will be on August 27, on Infomax 8, a community cable channel that broadcasts from City of San Fernando.

Kalalangan Kamaru is the same group behind the release a few months ago of the 1st Kapampangan Rock Album RocKapampangan, which is a compilation CD of 16 Kapampangan songs by 16 Kapampangan bands. The advocates in the group, along with producers from Infomax 8, view Kálam as another groundbreaking event for all Kapampangans in Pampanga and other places.

Aguman's presentation of Kálam was attended by other Capampangans students from UPD, Broadcast Communication students, some language majors, and even a student from nearby Miriam College. One of the more prominent attendees of the ACLE was CAL Professor Nilo Ocampo, who was a Kapampangan himself. After the talk, the Infomax 8 team requested recorded feedbacks from Prof. Nilo Ocampo, the Aguman officers and other attendees. The soundbites were later used for the news feature about the ACLE on the evening newscast of Infomax 8. The good feedbacks even from the non-Kapampangan students after the screening demonstrated its possible welcome of Kálam and other regional TV series in the regional broadcasting world.

FOR MORE PHOTOS, CLICK HERE!

Announcement: Aguman's ACLE

We're happy to announce na sure ne ing ACLE tamu! Here are the details:

DATE: 1-5pm, August 14, 2008
VENUE: PH 108-110

The tentative title is Kalam: the Gift of Regional Broadcast Media. But we are still accepting suggestions. But please give your suggestions ON OR BEFORE MONDAY.

It's about the emergence of regional broadcast media, focusing on the Kapampangan local media. Maging speakers tala reng Kalalangan Kamaru, dahil ila ing producers ning first ever Kapampanganovela on Philippine TV.



If you have any questions, ask JER or BUDUY.
Write in your comments on the comments section!

AguElections: Socio-Cultural Committee Chairperson

In time for the UP Aguman Election of Officers for the Centennial Executive Council, Aslag Online is proud to present to you the candidates for the different positions. To help you make in making the crucial decision on whom to vote, here's a feature on the final candidates. Here are the candidates for Socio-Cultural Committee Chairperson.
__________________

DENESSE HANDUMON
Langgotsi 2006B
2^nd Year, BA Political Science

Previous Committees: Socio-Cultural Committee 1st and 2nd Semester A.Y. 2007-2008 (2 sems)

What is your definition of leadership?
Leadership is the ability to assert what you believe is right but being open other’s views as well.

Makananu kalalam ing know-how mu keng position na tatagalan mu?
I have been in the Socio-Cultural Committee for almost a year and I can say that I have actively participated in the various activities and projects of our committee especially in the recently held Sining 2008. I know the things that need to be improved, the problems we’ve encountered, the shortcomings that we have committed as a committee and if I become the next Socio Chair I more likely know what to do. I have also seen how much Ate Loree has worked for the Committee and she has basically gave me the idea of what I am going into and I am ready for it.

Generally speaking, what does it take to be a competent AguLeader?
I think the primary thing that you need to be a competent AguLeader is to have a heart to serve, the willingness to sacrifice and to go out of your way just to fulfill the responsibilities assigned to you. The second thing you need to possess is experience. You can read all the responsibilities that you need to fulfill as an officer in the Constitution but nothing could teach better than experience.

How would you prevent previous mistakes of previous Executive Councils?
I think the easiest way to prevent mistakes is to have open communication lines. Wala naming hindi nadadaan sa mabuti at maayos na usapan ‘di ba? At kapag maayos na napag-uusapan ang mga bagay-bagay, mas naiiwasan ang mga pagkakamali.

Nanung masanting a administrative policy or practice ning outgoing Executive Council ing buri mung i-continue?
I think it would be the effort of the ExeCoun to reach out to the alumni. That practice really resulted to a lot of positive consequences that benefited the org.

Kapilan taya i-ammend ing Consti? Anong petsa na?!
Kung kakayanin ng susunod na ExeCoun na i-ammend next school year, mas maganda. Ang dami na kasing rules and policies na kailangan na i-ammend at idagdag katulad ng sa membership.

What trait of yours do you think will give you a harder time when it comes to handling the pressures of being in-charge?
I suppose my tendency to be complacent.

Ninung older member ing role model mu karas keng pagiging AguLeader?
Si Ate Daph. I admire how she has handled all the problems that she and the ExeCoun have encountered in the past year. Ang galing niya kasi she seems to always know the right thing to do. Hindi din siya pinangungunahan ng emosyon, lagi siyang rational sa decisions niya.

In your opinion, why is the duty of ‘looking over the physical well-being of the members’ almost always being neglected?
I think the main reason for this is that we live extremely toxic lives. Instead of spending time in being conscious and to do something about their physical well-being, we would rather spend our precious time to catch up with our readings or to finish our papers.

Makananu ka kalwat mamiling isulud mu patse lulub keng class?
Depende sa mood ko for the day. Patse balu kung ma-haggard ku for the day, nung nanu mu muna kung akit keng cabinet, ita na ing isulud ku. Neng kayi naman patse balu kung eku masyadu ma-haggard for the day, siguru around 5 minutes kung makalawe keng cabinet, haha! Patse naman feel kung gumet-up, the night before pamu, maka-plan na nung nanung sulud ku.


SPECIFIC PLAN OF ACTION

Linis Tambayan
We will be having weekly cleaners according to committees. This is pretty much like the cleaning scheme that was implemented earlier this year, only we would be stricter in monitoring it. The members of the Socio-Cultural committee and the Committee heads of the respective committees will be the ones in charge of monitoring the cleaners, but that does not exempt them from cleaning. At the end of the day, the Socio head or a representative will be checking the tambayan and the monitors will be held accountable if the tambayan is messy.

P.E.T. Bottle and Used Paper Drive
This is a fund raising activity that would help us earn money for the maintenance of the tambayan (for padlocks, pins, etc.). This would involve all the committees. The committees will compete with each other in earning money through selling P.E.T. bottles, used papers and newspapers. The committee who raises the most funds will have a special prize.

Org Shirt
It is very expensive for the mems to keep on buying new shirts for every event that we have. It would be better to invest on just one single shirt that would really identify us as AguPips.
To be able to make sure that the shirt design would really be creative and that majority of the mems will like the shirt design, Socio Committee would hold a shirt design competition that will be open for all AguPips and the AguPips themselves will choose what shirt design they would like.

Agu Apparel
The AguJacket was really a hit especially with the alumni. Let us make more AguApparel like lanyards which would be saleable to the alumni. This would be another way in which we could raise much needed funds.

Promotion of Aguman
The Socio-Cultural committee could join culture related activities or events here in the university (i.e. Kalye Kultura). This is also a way of promoting the org to other students in the university.

Reinventing Sining!
Sining is the major project of the Socio- Cultural Committee. We all know that it has been really successful this year and I am planning to make some alterations that I believe would improve it even more.

Earlier distribution of STS letters
The STS letters for Sining will be distributed together with the STS letters for Pautakan. This way, we could save the mems’ efforts and time as well. This would also give the schools more time to mull over if they would want to join and to prepare. The deadline for the confirmation of joining will be set a month before Sining. This is a way to avoid last minute “panic” like we experienced this year. This would give us ample time to think of what to do if there would only be few participants.

Bigger Sponsors
If we would want a bigger Sining, we first have to have sponsors. The second day of Sining is held in SM City Clark, we could ask the establishments in SM Clark to sponsor our event.

We would publish souvenir program samples that we could show to our prospected sponsors. This way, they would have an idea of what Sining really is. It is also a way to encourage them become our sponsor.

We would also have Sining recognized by the the Kapampangan Office for the culture and the Arts. This is another way for us to get funds from the Governor’s Office. As for the Juan D. Nepomuceno Center for Kapampangan Studies, it would be helpful if we would be affiliated with them since they are for the promotion of the Kapampanagn culture and Sining has the same thrust. This would also help us have access to better Crisotan pieces for free.

Sining Workshops
Instead of just letting the contestants compete and just leave it at that, why don’t we give them workshops that would help them improve their talents? This way we could impart something to the contestants. These workshops would specifically be for both Filipino and English essay and poetry writing and in still life drawing and art photography. This would also give the contestants a chance to interact with each other. We can get our alumni to help us out with the workshops that we would be conducting. We can also get sponsorships from paper companies, oil pastel companies, etc.
This will be done on the first day of Sining simultaneously with the Impromptu speech and Crisotan competitions.

Kapampangan Essay and Poetry Writing
Sining’s thrust is to showcase Kapampangan talent and what better way to do this than to have a category for Kapampangan essay and poetry writing?

JEREMIAH TORRICO
Lakatan 2006A
2^nd Year, BS Community Nutrition

Previous Committees: Socio-Cultural Committee: 2^nd semester A.Y. 2006-2007, 1^st and 2^nd semester A.Y. 2007-2008 (3 sems)

What is your definition of leadership?
Leadership is the capacity to be a unique selling proposition, for without difference, everything would seem to be a simple commodity. Nevertheless, it is also the competency to be responsible both as a member and as a leader. In addition, it is the ability, the willingness and the authority to guide, to direct and to administer the subjects undertaken towards yielding a fulfilling goal.

Makananu kalalam ing know-how mu keng position na tatagalan mu?
Keng three sems kung pamagsilbi king socio, I think I am credible enough to say na balu ku la reng pasikut-sikut keng committee. Also, being a member, I have been a witness to the hardships, the accomplishments and even the perks experienced by our previous Socio Comm chairpersons.

Generally speaking, what does it take to be a competent AguLeader?
I think, simply being a responsible member and having the capability AND willingness to serve is enough.

How would you prevent previous mistakes of previous executive councils?
By considering those previous mistakes as the things that should be avoided, circumvented or improved. They must serve as guidelines to what the org should do in certain circumstances may they be critical or not.

Nanung masanting a administrative policy or practice ning outgoing Executive Council ing buri mung i-continue?
Ing regular a communication with the alumni, improvement of the org’s major events, Aslag Online.

Kapilan taya i-ammend ing Consti?
Kapag ready ne ing org. Ali ya dapat i-ammend ing consti nung ali tamu sure keng effect na lalu pa’t saklaw ne nita ing lagyu and structure ning org. I think it would be better nung panigaralan ya pang masalese ing consti at iconsider reng reactions da reng alumni (especially the charter mems) dahil saklaw la parin karin…

What trait of yours do you think will give you a harder time when it comes to handlin pressures of being in-charge?
Maybe itang pagiging ‘acads first’ minded ku. As much as possible, I make sure that my acads would not be sacrificed. Saka na rin siguru itang masyadu kung pagtitiwala kareng friends ku kaya madalas dakung paglokwan.

Ninung older mems ing role model mu karas keng pagiging leader?
Ate Daph, kasi baski busy ya dahil graduating ne and magprepare ya pa para keng med career na, lagi nang atutupad reng responsibilities na. Plus points pa itang fact a friendly ya. She made a lot of changes keng org and I think that she really did improve the wellness of the org.

In your opinion, why is the duty of ‘looking over the physical well-being of the members’ almost always being neglected?
Kasi makafocus tamu masyadu keng goals na ning org a akakalingwan tane ing sarili tamu. It’s good to know na maging fruitful lareng efforts tamu pero kadalasan, akakalingwan tana ing responsibilities tamu keng sarili tamu. Dapat tularan yuku bakanta miras kayu king edad ku. Hehe!

Makananu ka kalwat mamiling isulud mu patse lulub keng class?
Malwat ne siguru ing one minute. I usually don’t mind whatever it is that I wear as long as I am comfortable with it. Aaminan ku a baduy ku, pero so what? At least I’ve got my own style, manong yamu mu! Ehe.


SPECIFIC PLAN OF ACTION

Isulong Taya Ing M.A.T.W.A.!!
Jer-jer Torrico. Para keng Socio.

(M)as Social a Sining
Lahat ning maging Socio-Cultural Committee Chairperson mag-aim a mas masanting a Sining for us to promote the talents of Kapampangans. I would make a better Sining by making it a bigger event. For 2009, I’m planning (ambisyosoJ) to acquire more sponsors through the help of exte and fin and share with them new strategies to attract sponsors para maging mas social ya ing sining.

(A)guman Anniversary at its Best
Since 35th anniversary na na ning org this december, gawan tayang memorable and colorful ing event a ini with the help of the other execom officers. We’ll be having colorful events like photo exhibit, souvenirs, grand pakain, etc.

(T)ambayang Malinis at Masanting
Although it is the members’ responsibility to take care of the tambayan, our consti states that Socio is in charge of maintaining its cleanliness. Next school year, ilakad kareng mems ing agreement na ating nang bayad nung maglakwan kalat keng tambayan. Makalinis nakang tambayan, makasaup ka pa keng Fin… Isulung din ing pagrennovate keng tambayan bakanta maging conducive ya both for learning and for social intercourse ing ambience keng tambayan …

(W)inning Strategy
Para maging mas close tamu kareng other mems and kareng alumni, magkarung minisports fest involving us. Enjoying while getting to know each other more is something that Socio should initiate to fulfill its duty of taking care of the physical well being of the members. This way, we can experience camaraderie with our fellow members and with the alumni…

(A)pagmaragul Tamung Kapampangan Tamu
I think that the SocioCultural Committee should stand by its name. Dapat maging aware ya ing org na responsibility taya rin ing promotion ning Kapampangan Culture. Makananu taya gawan ini? Well, there are a lot of orgs na magaim magkaintercultural events and masanting nung makiyabe tamu kareng makanitang events. Also, isulong din ing pamagcoordinate with various cultural organizations keng Pampanga para naman lagi tamung updated with what’s happening with our culture.