What are the opening hours?

Monday 8am - 5pm Tuesday 8am - 5pm Wednesday 8am - 5pm Thursday 8am - 5pm Friday 8am - 5pm

https://www.facebook.com/331117378377/

The Pillar, Catarman (2025)

12/09/2025

𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒 || 𝐂𝐨𝐄𝐝 𝐩𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐅𝐮𝐧 𝐅𝐚𝐢𝐫 ‘𝟐𝟓 𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐝 𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐝𝐥𝐞𝐬

Despite issues involving limited funds, time constraints, and ongoing classes, the College of Education (CoEd) officially opened its two-day Fun Fair at the college grounds yesterday, September 11, at exactly 9:09 a.m.

Originally slated for September 10 but postponed due to heavy rainfall, the event bannered the theme “Learn, Connect, Celebrate: Showcasing the CoEd Spirit.”

“Ngayong araw, muli na naming pinatutunayan ng Dalubhasaan ng Edukasyon na hindi lamang tayo kanlungan ng karunungan kundi kanlungan ng pagkakaibigan, talento, at walang hanggang kasiyahan,” conveyed CoEd Student Council (CoEdSC) President Ace D. Demonteverde in his opening speech.

The fair boasted several activities, including college-wide competitions such as the Booth Fair, Photo Booth, and Bulletin competitions, and the Battle of the CoEd Brains.

The celebration also integrated the Science and Mathematics month festivities, with their respective student organizations adding more activities, such as the Science Quiz Bee, FerMath, and Math Trail.

“Parang mas enjoyable ngayon kasi mas more ang games especially [na nagce-celebrate] din [tayo ng] Math and Science discipline during the CoEd Fun Fair,” shared Gideon Amor Pernito, a fourth-year Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in English (BSEd-English) student.

In an interview, CoEdSC President Demonteverde admitted that limited funds and time were among the biggest hurdles in organizing the event. He revealed that the incumbent council has yet to reveive its Student Development Fund, forcing them to raise their own resources by making the fair partly income-generating.

He also cited conflicting officer schedules, lack of representation from other disciplines, unpredictable weather, and limited venue availability as additional challenges.

Students also echoed these concerns, saying it was difficult to fully prepare and immerse themselves in the fair while classes were ongoing.

Angel Hope, a third-year Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in English (BSEd-English) student, shared that while the event was enjoyable, she said it was disappointing that they had only a short time to prepare their booths.

The CoEd Fun Fair will conclude on Tuesday, September 16, alongside the Orientation and Acquaintance Party, which was rescheduled due to venue adjustments. ¶

Words by Mark Ruel Pagal
Photos by Paolo Leandro Pinca and Queen Surio

11/09/2025

𝐁𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐀𝐍𝐆 𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐇𝐀𝐋𝐀𝐈𝐍 || 𝐒𝐁 𝐔𝐄𝐏 𝐓𝐨𝐰𝐧, 𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐦𝐨𝐤 𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐠𝐚 𝐔𝐄𝐏𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞 𝐬𝐚 𝐰𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐩𝐚𝐠𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐚𝐩𝐨𝐧 𝐧𝐠 𝐛𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐚

Mariing nanawagan ang tatlong Sangguniang Barangay (SB) ng University of Eastern Philippines (UEP) Town — Barangay UEP Zone I, II, at III — hinggil sa lumalalang suliranin ng basura. Ito’y matapos madiskubre ng mga opisyal ng Brgy. UEP Zone II ang tambak ng basura sa Rosales Street na iniwan umano ng mga estudyante.

𝐏𝐚𝐠𝐭𝐮𝐤𝐥𝐚𝐬 𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐤 𝐧𝐚 𝐁𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐚

Idinulog ni Jinky R. Lonsonia, Barangay Health Worker (BHW), sa The Pillar ang insidente noong Setyembre 2 matapos ang paglilinis bilang paghahanda sa pagbisita ng mga opisyal mula sa Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).

"Nagsibak kami kahapon kasi nga mayaon bisita from region tapos mayaon SGLG kay maglilibot... naimud namon adto na mga basura na kaiha pa, namamaho na ngani... pinan-ulod pa," paglalarawan ni Lonsania.

Agad nilang nilinis ang lugar, ngunit ayon sa mga tricycle driver na nakaparada malapit, mga estudyante ang pangunahing nagtatapon doon.

𝐏𝐚𝐠𝐤𝐫𝐮𝐬 𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐧 𝐬𝐚 𝐁𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐚

Hindi lang Zone II ang apektado. Parehong sitwasyon din ang kinakaharap ng Zone I at Zone III. Ayon kay Hon. Donna O. Tafalla, kalihim ng Zone III, malinaw ang pagkakaiba sa kanilang kapaligiran kapag may klase:

"Sa yana na-observe kase iton san barangay na kapag waray gane klase... dito’y an mga tawo didi sa aton kumunidad [tapos] 'pag nag-i-start na an klase iton na dida nadi-discover nira an mga basura sa basiyo san milktea, mga snack... kaurugan man situn diba nagkukuan mga estudyante."

Ganito rin ang pahayag ni Hon. Antonio D. Ong, Punong Barangay ng Zone I, na nagsabing karamihan sa nakakalat na basura ay mula sa mga pinagkainan tulad ng barbeque sticks, plastic wrappers, at plastic cups.

Upang tugunan ito, ipinatutupad sa Zone I ang ordinansa na nagpaparusa sa maling pagtatapon ng basura: community service sa unang paglabag, at ₱1,000 multa sa ikalawa at ikatlo.

Gayunpaman, ayon kay SB Member Hon. Danny T. Balading, may mga suliranin pa rin sa coastal areas ng kanilang nasasakupan gaya ng Alma at White Beach.

"Kasi everyday ada an mga kabataan, mga students, nagpipinalabay, ada an basura ngada ginbibinagianan pirmi," ani Balading.

Dagdag pa niya, hindi malinaw kung saan napupunta ang environmental fee na kinokolekta sa White Beach:

"Ngayon kasi an UEP naman may collection, may cash ticket. So [nasaan na] kaya ang proceed ng cash ticket? Bakit may empleyado pero waray [man] nag-re-regulate didto pag-maintain san kalimpyohon san area…Walang [napupuntahan]. Diri situn involved na cash ticket [an] barangay [na ginkokolekta sa] Alma [ngan] White Beach.”

𝐇𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐧 𝐬𝐚 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐬𝐲𝐨𝐧

Kamakailan, ipinatupad ang Strict Implementation of Environmental Sustainability Policy ng UEP Board of Regents (BOR) Resolution No. 08, Series of 2025, na pinagtibay noong Pebrero 13, 2025. Layon ng polisiyang ito na ipagbawal ang paggamit ng anumang single-use plastics, ang maling pagtatapon ng basura sa loob ng unibersidad, at ang pagpapatupad ng “bring your plastic with you” na polisiya.

"In my personal opinion based on my observation, malabo siyang mangyari kase unang-una, bisan outside of the campus san UEP ada ka la sa [sayo na] komunidad," pahayag ni Balading.

Kahalintulad ang pananaw ni Barangay Kalihim Hon. Khalil Edgar T. Giray: “Actually zero-waste is halos imposible mahinabo… mao man situn an iya permanente [ginsusugad] kay nag-MENRO man ‘yon si Kap.”

Para sa mga opisyal ng barangay, mas makabubuti ang waste reduction kaysa pilit na zero-waste.

"An panawagan san baranggay ngadto sa UEP—kun nano an maibubulig san UEP na malimitahan gud sini an basura? Na ma-call an kanra [mga estudyante] attention na maging responsable sa kada tagsa na basura," saad ni Balading.

𝐏𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐧 𝐦𝐮𝐥𝐚 𝐬𝐚 𝐌𝐠𝐚 𝐄𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐲𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐞

Para kay Klari Gomba, fourth-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine student, malinaw ang kapabayaan ng kapwa mag-aaral:

"Tikang san nagkayaon… mga to-go na mga cups… didi sira nagpipilak sa mga ganyan gilid-gilid la."

Ayon naman kay Jean Rose Calumpiano, fourth-year Biology student, nagiging dagdag na problema ang kakulangan ng basurahan sa campus na konektado sa mga bagong polisiya ng administrasyon sa Resolution No. 08, Series of 2025:

"Kase one thing na naging problem namon sa OJT, mayaon kami mga gingagamit na need talaga itapon, na i-dispose sa tama na pilakan, but then waray basurahan."

𝐏𝐚𝐠𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐨𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐤𝐬𝐲𝐨𝐧

Noong Setyembre 4, nagsagawa ng inspeksyon sina UEP President Dr. Cherry I. Ultra, Dr. Anelita M. Obrar (Dean, College of Science), at Dr. Myrna Ogoc (Direktor, CESA) upang tiyakin ang pagsunod ng mga tindera at food stalls sa tamang waste disposal.

Kasunod nito, nagtipon ang mga university at college student officer na iitinalaga bilang bahagi ng UEP Solid Waste Task Force noong Setyembre 8 sa Centennial Hall. Pinangunahan ni Dr. Obrar, binigyang-diin sa pagpupulong ni Dr. Ogoc ang responsibilidad ng bawat mag-aaral bilang tagapangalaga ng kalikasan.

Tinalakay din ang pagkawala ng basurahan para sa laboratory waste. Nilinaw ni Dr. Obrar na may nakalaan nang solusyon: pagtatayo ng sanitary vault sa unibersidad.

𝐏𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐰 𝐬𝐚 𝐇𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐩

Sa kabila ng patuloy na hamon ng suliranin sa basura sa UEP, naniniwala pa rin ang mga Sangguniang Barangay na sa pamamagitan ng mas maayos na balangkas ng polisiya, aktibong pakikiisa ng mga mag-aaral at iba pang sektor, at suporta mula sa pamunuan ng institusyon, hindi imposibleng makamit ang tunay na kalinisan at kaginhawaan para sa mas disiplinadong bukas.¶

Verbo: Niño Balawang
Mga kuha ni Clarence Tuballas

11/09/2025

𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐊 || Seeking immediate action and accountability, The Pillar sent a formal communication to University President Dr. Cherry I. Ultra regarding the unresolved release of its Board of Regents (BOR)-approved funds.

The letter pointed out that despite the regular submission of Action Plans and Project Procurement Management Plans (PPMPs) over the past two academic years, the publication has not seen concrete outcomes.

While the University Accountant previously confirmed records of unused funds, the lack of support has forced the staff to use personal resources just to sustain operations.

With the beginning of this new academic year, The Pillar requested the administration to disclose the exact amount of its allocated fund and to release it promptly this semester.

Transparency in this matter is necessary not only for accountability but also for the recognition of the student press as an essential institution within the university.

The publication stressed that without this, its operations and initiatives will remain gravely constrained, putting at risk its mandate to serve as students' voice and to uphold their right to timely and accurate information. ¶

11/09/2025

𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒 || 𝐂𝐀𝐅𝐍𝐑 𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐬 𝐆𝐚𝐥𝐚 𝐍𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐨𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐬, 𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐧’𝐬 𝐋𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬

Following a year without acquaintance parties, the College of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Natural Resources (CAFNR) brought back its tradition through the Gala Night 2025, held yesterday, September 10, at the UEP Gymnatorium.

The event highlighted the induction of the new set of CAFNR Student Council (CAFNRSC) officers, department and society organization officials, and the recognition of Dean’s Listers.

College Dean Dr. Leovegildo B. Mante Jr., led the awarding of certificates to students who excelled in their programs. He also stressed in his message that honoring academic achievers holds dual aims: to motivate other students to thrive harder and improve the college’s board examination performance.

“Karuyag namon magbago an imahen san College of Agriculture, kay tikang sa tikang permi mahamubo an passing rate san amon board examinations across sa different programs sa college,” he said.

Dr. Mante also reminded the faculty to arrive earlier in future events following the two-hour delay of the program.

Meanwhile, USC Treasurer Dennis Luciano administered the oaths of the newly elected CAFNRSC officers from the recent University Student Council (USC) and College Student Council (CSC) 2025 elections, while Dr. Mante Jr. inducted the officials of department and society organizations.

CAFNRSC President Ryan Dolorzo also led the induction of student volunteers who assisted the council in preparing for the event.

Delivering a message on behalf of the USC President, USC PIO Glaiza Camacho congratulated the newly inducted officers.

“You have been entrusted with the responsibility to lead, and our USC president is confident that you will do your best to represent your fellow students,” she urged.

Some students in attendance, however, noted the difference in terms of preparation as compared to previous years.

Myrna Fajardo, a third-year BS Fisheries student, shared how the last acquaintance party had been planned in advance, unlike this year.

“Sadto naka-prepared po talaga adto kay dako an time na gin hatag para mag-prepare, tapos [ma-enjoy] adto. Yana biglaan kay kahapon la ginsugad na may event yana, ako mga classmates nag-cram san mga bado,” she said.

The night ended with CFANRians gracing the runway, walking, waving, and posing with confidence to showcase their elegance.

Jenny Dolorzo and Alejandro Acibar were crowned as the faces of the night.

Regular classes for CAFNR resumed today, September 11. ¶

Words by Jenchor Kenth Tenedero
Photos by Queen Surio and Clarence Tuballas

10/09/2025

You are not alone.

Every life lost to su***de leaves an ache in families, friends, and communities. Behind each number is a face, a dream, and a story that mattered.

This is why each September 10, the world pauses to observe World Su***de Prevention Day (WSPD), this year with the theme “Changing the Narrative on Su***de.” It is a wake-up call that silence can be broken, stigma can be challenged, and hope can be shared.

WSPD, first launched in 2003 by the International Association for Su***de Prevention (IASP) together with the World Health Organization (WHO), bears a purpose both simple and profound: to make us aware that su***de is not inevitable - it is preventable.

Su***de often arises from battles that are not always visible. Some people live with wounds from trauma, bullying, or loss. Others face struggles in school, at home, or within themselves. Warning signs may include withdrawing from loved ones, often speaking about death, or acting recklessly. And yet, behind these struggles is the recognition that what people seek is not death itself, but the relief of suffering.

This reality is mirrored in the Philippines, where studies show the extent to which young people are affected. The 2021 Young Adult Fertility and Sexuality Study (YAFS5) found that nearly one in five Filipino youth aged 15–24 had thought about ending their life. Between 2013 and 2021, the number of young people who attempted su***de more than doubled, rising from 3% to 7.5%, or almost 1.5 million lives at risk.

More recently, the Department of Health reported that one in every five students in Eastern Visayas had attempted su***de in 2023. And beyond these statistics, may be the faces we know. Our classmates, neighbors, and friends whose struggles often remain unseen.

Yet, prevention brings us to mind that hope can still be nurtured. It does not always require large actions, for it can begin even in the simplest ways. A smile shared with someone nearby, a gentle “Kumusta ka?” to a friend, or the willingness to listen with an open heart can make a difference. And beyond personal acts, it also means supporting awareness campaigns, speaking kindly about mental health, and sharing hotline numbers that can save lives.

On this day, we remember the lives lost, and the loved ones left behind. More importantly, we are called to be present for those who are still here. Let us be the reason why someone chooses to stay.¶

𝐇𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐲.

National Center for Mental Health Crisis Hotline:
Landline (Nationwide toll-free): 1553
Globe/TM: 0966-351-4518 | 0917-899-8727
Smart/Sun/TNT: 0908-639-2672

09/09/2025

𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒 || 𝐄𝐬𝐜𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐝, 𝐒𝐨𝐭𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐬 𝐚𝐬 𝐒𝐞𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐡𝐮𝐟𝐟𝐥𝐞

Manila, Philippines — Sen. Vicente "Tito" Sotto III has been elected as the new Senate President, replacing Sen. Francis Joseph "Chiz" Escudero, following a leadership reshuffle linked to the flood control corruption probe on September 8, 2025.

During the 17th session of the 20th Congress, Sen. Panfilo "Ping" Lacson also replaced Sen. Jinggoy Estrada as Senate president pro tempore, while Sen. Juan Miguel "Migz" Zubiri succeeded Sen. Joel Villanueva as majority floor leader.

After the vote, Escudero took the floor to formally accept his removal and congratulate his successor.

“I hold no grudges, I hold no ill feelings,” he said.

According to Rappler, 15 of the 24 senators signed the resolution ousting Escudero and installing Sotto. Among the signatories were Senators Pia Cayetano, JV Ejercito, Sherwin Gatchalian, Risa Hontiveros, Loren Legarda, Mark Villar, Camille Villar, Raffy and Erwin Tulfo, and others.

The leadership shake-up comes days after Lawrence Lubiano, owner of Centerways Construction, admitted before the House of Representatives that he donated ₱30 million to Escudero during the 2022 elections. President Marcos Jr. earlier named Lubiano as the top contractor behind anomalous flood control projects.

Escudero had also faced criticism at the close of the 19th Congress for not immediately pushing forward with the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, which led to the shelving of the case.

As Senate President, Sotto will now preside over sessions, enforce rules, decide on parliamentary questions, and represent the chamber in official functions. He also plays a central role in setting the legislative agenda, overseeing committee assignments, and, most crucially, steering the Senate in upcoming debates on the national budget and the government’s flood control and anti-corruption measures.

In his acceptance speech, Sotto underscored corruption as the nation’s most pressing problem.
“People are enraged by corruption—corruption that is now seen, heard, and felt, by Filipinos more than ever in the failed flood control projects that are supposed to protect lives and livelihoods, the dilapidated classrooms of our students, and the lack of quality farm-to-market roads to aid our farmers. All are engulfed [in] corruption,” he said.

Sotto added that while corruption has tainted nearly all levels of government, transparency and accountability can still be achieved with the cooperation of both officials and citizens.

Sotto, a member of the National People’s Coalition (NPC), is a veteran lawmaker with more than two decades in the Senate. He previously served as Senate President during the 18th Congress, majority leader in the 17th, and minority leader in the early sessions of the 20th before reclaiming the top post.

With his return to the helm, Sotto now faces the dual challenge of restoring public trust in Congress and navigating heated debates on corruption probes, budget deliberations, and infrastructure reforms—issues that will define not only the Senate’s credibility but also the nation’s governance in the years ahead. ¶

Words by Jenchor Kenth Tenedero
Layout by Mark Kendrick Orsua

08/09/2025

“...My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior...from now on all generations will call me blessed...” - Luke 1: 47-48 (NRSV-CE)

Annually observed every 8th of September, today is the Feast of the Nativity of Mary, a Marian feast in the Catholic calendar which honors the birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the matriarch of Jesus. As the dawn of salvation, Mary’s birth is a special occasion whose significance is regarded as a gift for humanity. For through her, our savior Jesus Christ, was born.

Detailed in a second-century apocryphal text called the Protoevangelium of James (The Gospel of James), Mary’s early life was tied to a Byzantine church near the Pools of Bethesda in the Old City of Jerusalem. The same church was believed to have been built over her birthplace and the home of her parents, Saint Joachim and Saint Anne. The current Basilica of Saint Anne was built on the same site in the twelfth century. Accordingly, beneath the basilica lie what are believed to be the caves in which the Mother of God was born and lived.

In a Catholic-heavy locale as the Philippines, the Mother of Divine Grace is revered with great devotion, honored with special masses, processions, and other devotional activities. In fact, as stipulated in the Republic Act. No. 11370 promulgated on August 9, 2019; today is a special working holiday across the country to commemorate this Marymas. And so, let us use this moment to reflect and remember the humility, patience, love, and obedience of Mary, qualities that are central to the Christian faith.

For in the eyes of the Virgin Mary, the world is a reflection of God’s beauty. ¶

Words by Ed Almasco
Layout by Carl Saldy Manaog

08/09/2025

𝐊𝐎𝐌𝐈𝐊𝐒 || 𝐒𝐮𝐬𝐮𝐤𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐢𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠 𝐬𝐚 𝐀𝐫𝐚𝐰 𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐲𝐚
ni Xukiyo

08/09/2025

𝐎𝐏𝐈𝐍𝐘𝐎𝐍 || 𝐋𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐧𝐠-𝐖𝐚𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐢𝐥𝐲𝐨𝐧 𝐧𝐚 𝐓𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐧𝐠, 𝐈𝐬𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐤𝐚𝐬𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐚𝐠𝐨𝐭

Tuwing Setyembre 6, ipinagdiriwang ang International Literacy Day upang ipaalala na ang kakayahang bumasa at sumulat ang pundasyon ng kaunlaran ng isang bansa. Subalit sa Pilipinas, nananatiling mahina ang pundasyong ito.

Batay sa pinakahuling Functional Literacy, Education, and Mass Media Survey (FLEMMS) ng Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) noong 2024, tinatayang 18.9 milyong Pilipino na nasa edad 10 hanggang 64 ang nananatiling functionally illiterate. Ipinapakita rin ng datos na bagama’t 93.1% ng mga Pilipino ang kayang bumasa at sumulat, bumababa ito sa 70.8% kapag sinukat ang functional literacy o kakayahang tunay na umunawa ng binabasa. Malinaw na ang 23.3 puntos na pagitan ay sumasalamin sa isang krisis na matagal nang binabalewala.

𝐊𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐡𝐢𝐲𝐨, 𝐍𝐠𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭 𝐇𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐢 𝐌𝐚𝐤𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐚𝐰𝐚

Hindi na nakapagtataka ngunit nakababahala na may mga estudyanteng nasa kolehiyo na hirap pa ring bumuo ng simpleng pangungusap at umintindi ng maikling kuwento. Bunga ito ng kurikulum na bigong maglatag ng matibay na kasanayan sa pagbasa at pagsusulat.

Ayon kay Senador Sherwin Gatchalian, tinatayang 24.8 milyong Pilipino ang hindi pa rin umaabot sa pamantayan ng functional literacy, kabilang na ang mga nakapagtapos ng high school. Dito lumilitaw ang kakulangan ng K-12 program na ipinakilala noong 2012 bilang tugon sa hamon ng globalisasyon.

Sa halip na mapabuti ang kalidad ng edukasyon, lalo nitong inilantad ang kahinaan ng spiral curriculum na hindi nagbunga ng mas malalim na pag-unawa. Kaya sa halip na makapagbigay ng diplomang may laman, ang sistema ay nakalilikha ng mga graduate na kulang sa kakayahang umunawa.

𝐀𝐧𝐠 𝐊𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐚 𝐧𝐠 “𝐈𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐚 𝐧𝐚 𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐠”

Lalong pinalalala ng umiiral na polisiya sa ilang paaralan ang halos pagbabawal sa pagbagsak ng mag-aaral. Ang ganitong sistemang “ipasa na lang” ay nagbubunga ng henerasyong may diploma ngunit kulang sa kasanayan, madaling malinlang ng pekeng impormasyon, at manipulahin sa larangan ng pulitika.

Mas nakababahala pa, isa sa bawat limang nagtapos ng hayskul noong 2024 ay functionally illiterate. Mahigit 18.9 milyon ang patuloy na nahihirapan sa batayang kasanayan gaya ng pagbasa, pagsusulat, pagbibilang, at pag-unawa.

𝐓𝐞𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐡𝐢𝐲𝐚, 𝐀𝐈, 𝐚𝐭 𝐀𝐧𝐠 𝐍𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐊𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐤𝐚𝐥 𝐧𝐚 𝐏𝐚𝐠-𝐢𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐩
Hindi maikakaila na ang kabataan ngayon ay lubog sa teknolohiya. Sa halip na magbasa ng aklat o maikling kuwento, mas nasasanay silang mag-scroll sa social media at umasa sa mga sagot mula sa Artificial Intelligence (AI) para sa kanilang takdang-aralin.

Kung hindi mag-iingat, ang AI ay mauuwi sa pagiging kasangkapan ng intelektuwal na katamaran. Sa halip na hasain ang kakayahang mag-analisa, umunawa, at magtanong, nasasanay silang kumopya ng sagot nang walang kritikal na pagsusuri. Kaya kung ang kabataan ay hindi natuturuan ng sariling pagbasa at pagninilay, paano pa sila makakabuo ng sariling paninindigan?

𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐀𝐓𝐀𝐆 𝐀𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚: 𝐏𝐚𝐠-𝐚𝐬𝐚 𝐨 𝐏𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐛𝐚𝐠𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐄𝐤𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐨?

Noong inanunsyo ni Bise Presidente at Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sara Duterte ang MATATAG Curriculum, ipinangako nitong ibabalik ang pokus sa mga pundasyon: literacy, numeracy, at socio-emotional learning. Kabilang din dito ang pagbabawas ng dami ng competencies upang maging mas praktikal ang pagtuturo at mas mahusay na maihanda ang mga mag-aaral para sa hinaharap.

Ngunit nananatiling tanong kung ito ba ay tunay na reporma o panibagong “trial and error” na tulad ng K-12. Batay sa datos ng Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2022, pumuwesto ang Pilipinas sa ika-77 sa 81 bansa sa math, science, at reading.

Isang rekord itong nakakahiyang hindi matatakpan ng anumang palusot. Kung hindi magiging seryoso ang pamahalaan at mga paaralan sa pagpapatupad ng MATATAG, mula sa maingat na pagbalangkas at masusing pagrebisa hanggang sa malalim na konsultasyon, mananatili lamang itong magarbong pangalan na walang laman.

𝐏𝐚𝐩𝐞𝐥 𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐚𝐠𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐭 𝐊𝐨𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐝

Ngunit hindi sapat na ang gobyerno lamang ang kumilos. Dapat ding mamulat ang mga magulang na sanayin ang kanilang mga anak sa pagbabasa ng pisikal na aklat. Sa bawat pahina ng libro, may mga imahen at salitang humuhubog sa imahinasyon at kritikal na pag-iisip—mga bagay na hindi kayang ibigay ng cellphone o AI chatbot.

Ang pagbabasa ay hindi lamang libangan kundi unang hakbang ng paglaban: laban sa kahirapan, laban sa katiwalian, at laban sa pang-aabuso ng mga nasa kapangyarihan. Kung ang kabataan ay hindi matututo ng tunay na literasiya, mananatili silang bihag ng sistema, nagiging tuta imbes na malayang nag-iisip.

𝐀𝐧𝐠 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐚 𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐧𝐠-𝐖𝐚𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐢𝐥𝐲𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐭 𝐒𝐢𝐲𝐚𝐦 𝐧𝐚 𝐑𝐚𝐚𝐧 𝐋𝐢𝐛𝐨

Ngayong International Literacy Day, dapat tayong matauhan: ang pagbasa ay hindi simpleng kasanayan, ito ang ating kalasag laban sa kahirapan at pandaraya. Ito ang simula ng pagiging Pilipino at simula ng pagbabago.

Hindi basta numero ang labing-walong milyon at siyam na raan libo, ito ay milyon-milyong buhay na hindi lubusang makaintindi ng kanilang binabasa. Ito ay milyon-milyong botanteng madaling paasahin ng pangakong hungkag. Ito ay milyon-milyong batang hindi man lamang makakalanghap ng bango ng pahina ng aklat, kundi amoy ng estero at hirap ng buhay.

Kung tunay na nais ng pamahalaan na maisalba ang edukasyon, dapat itong higit na mamuhunan sa g**o, aklat, at mga programang nakabatay sa datos, hindi sa magagarbong retorika. Sapagkat kung patuloy na ipagwawalang-bahala ang krisis na ito, hindi lamang milyon ang mawawalan ng kinabukasan kundi ang buong bansa.¶

Verbo: Lheianne Ghie Dalmacion
Lapat ni Grant Luceno

07/09/2025

How often do you find yourself using ‘&’ in your writing or decorative lettering? How often do you see it in textbooks? For some, it saves time by replacing the word ‘and’. For others, it adds a touch of style to calligraphy and designing. But the question is, do you know the name of this little thing?

This stylish little character has long been associated with elegance, aesthetics, and efficiency. It’s more than just a shortcut word. It is called the “ampersand.”

This character may be small, but its history is grand. The ampersand is over 2,000 years old and its lineage stretches back to Roman times. Back then, scribes often wrote in cursive to speed up lengthy transcripts. They combined letters to improve the flow of writing, which led to confusion as overlapping characters became difficult to read. To resolve this, Romans developed ligatures, combining letters into a single symbol for efficiency.

Among the most enduring was the merging of ‘e’ and ‘t’, the Latin word “et,” which means “and.” Over time, this shorthand evolved into the familiar ‘&’ we recognize today — the ampersand.

The term ‘ampersand’ first appeared in the English language in 1835 and was used as a letter in its own right. It was taught as the 27th letter of the alphabet, after z, to 19th-century British students, who recited it as “and per se and,” meaning “by itself,” owing to its stand-alone nature. The symbol, however, ceased to be part of the English alphabet by the late 19th century.

Every September 8, World Ampersand Day is celebrated not just as a recognition of a word connector and shortcut, but rather a homage to the ampersand’s enduring legacy in the domains of typography, design, and language.

Founded in 2015 by Chaz DeSimone, an author, designer, and typographer, the commemoration honors the symbol as a representation of aesthetics and functionality in the areas of literature, graphic design, web design, and advertising.

Today, the ‘&’ is beyond being a simple connector of words. It has now evolved into style and creativity. Companies use the ampersand for their logos and branding. Some people use it for their event invitations. People use it in their everyday writing. Graphic designers celebrate it as a showcase of typeface artistry, while writers use its efficiency to make texts more concise.

The ampersand has endured many years and is still standing today, adapting to every era of writing and designing. It may be a small character, but its story is rich and vast, connecting the past, present, and future of language in one curve. ¶

Words by Jane Evelour Limbawan
Layout by Lary Jayde Rongcales

07/09/2025

𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐇𝐀𝐋𝐀𝐈𝐍 || 𝐓𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐤𝐚𝐥𝐚 𝐧𝐠 𝐊𝐨𝐩𝐫𝐚

Noong unang linggo ng Agosto, humarap ang Northern Samar sa matinding pagbagsak ng presyo ng kopra—mula ₱72 pumalo na lamang ito sa ₱20 kada kilo. Sa isang iglap, tila nabalewala ang pagod at pawis ng mga mangkokopra. Karamihan ay may lakas na harapin ang unos, ngunit mayroon ding may tapang na lisanin ito—dala ang aral ng koprahan.

𝐁𝐮𝐠𝐬𝐨 𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐞𝐫𝐤𝐚𝐝𝐨

Aminado ang Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) – Northern Samar, na pinamumunuan ni Division Chief Engr. Eric E. Lopez, na nabigla rin sila sa biglang pagbagsak ng presyo. Iniuugnay nila ito sa pagbabago sa pandaigdigang merkado.

“We didn’t see it coming—the sudden drop in copra prices. Although the usual explanation lies in the simple science of supply and demand,” wika niya nang dumulog ang The Pillar sa kaniyang opisina.

Patunay dito ang nangyari sa Rotterdam, Netherlands, isa sa pinakamalalaking seaport sa mundo at pangunahing pinagbebentahan ng langis mula Asya. Noong Agosto 14, 2025, bumaba ang presyo ng coconut oil sa CIF Rotterdam ng $250 bawat metriko tonelada, o halos ₱14 kada kilo. Ipinapakita nito na lumuluwag ang supply sa pandaigdigang merkado, dahilan upang lalo pang bumagsak ang presyo sa Pilipinas.

Kaugnay nito, sa parehong buwan, mula sa dating presyo na halos $2,800 bawat metriko tonelada o ₱159.60 kada kilo, bumagsak ang presyo ng coconut oil sa Ex Works (EXW) Manila sa $1,750–1,800/MT o ₱99.75–₱102.60 kada kilo. Ibig sabihin, sa palitan na ₱57 = $1, lumalabas na halos ₱60 kada kilo ang ibinagsak ng presyo sa loob lamang ng isang linggo.

Dagdag pa ni Engr. Lopez, walang katotohanan ang balitang nagsasabwatan ang mga trader. Repleksyon lamang ito ng galaw sa pandaigdigang merkado, kung saan mas mura at mas madaling makuha ang palm oil at soybean oil—habang nananatiling maliit ang bahagi ng copra na nasa 1.5% lamang ng global share.

𝐇𝐢𝐫𝐚𝐩 𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐲𝐚

Para kay Ginoong Lito Sabilao, 43, ng Brgy. Bayho, Lope de Vega, ang pagbagsak ng presyo ay dagdag-pasanin.

“Lugi gud kami saam pan-maintenance gihapon sa kopra, mahal a panuhulan, mahal a papliton, bisan la a pansura san magtrabaho, magasto ka pa harapit sin kinyentos (₱500) tapos barato pa an pagkopra,” ani Sabilao.

Ganito rin ang pangamba ni Ginoong Vincent Toling, 33, ng Las Navas. Hindi na sapat ang kita niya para tustusan ang pamilya, lalo na’t may bagong silang na sanggol.

“Yana yaon ak masuso, kaya natitigdaan talaga ak san paghabubo presyo. Kunta diri man sad sini kay an mga paraglukad an ura-ura na apektado,” pagbabahagi niya.

Ibinahagi rin ni Sabilao na napipilitang lumiban sa klase ang kaniyang mga anak dahil sa kakapusan. Kung dati’y bumibili ng bigas para sa buong linggo, ngayon isa o kalahating kilo na lang bawat araw.

“Kay danay sa pag-eskwela nira nagka-uru’absent kay wara iparasahe, danay nga naangal sa sura kay waray, tapos an nababalyo na bugas pira la ka kilo, tunga la ka kilo o sayo ka kilo," wika niya.

𝐈𝐬𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐁𝐚𝐠𝐬𝐚𝐤𝐚𝐧

Nasa 84,125 ektarya ng lupa sa Northern Samar ay nakalaan sa pagkokopra. Isang bagsak ng presyo, lahat apektado. Sa higit 93,000 maliliit na magsasaka—kadalasan tenant workers lang—nakasandig ang ekonomiya ng probinsya.

“Copra is the only business in terms of coconut in Northern Samar. Ano talaga tayo—very crude, no value-adding activity. In fact, most of them still don’t appreciate intercropping," paliwanag ni Lopez.

Dagdag pa niya, kung naipatupad ang intercropping, may kutson sanang sasalba tuwing bumabagsak ang presyo. “Imagine mo, para kang napilayan, walang kutson—pag mahulog ka, di ka man sana mapilayan.”

𝐒𝐚 𝐋𝐚𝐛𝐚𝐬 𝐧𝐠 𝐊𝐚𝐡𝐢𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐚𝐧

Habang naghihintay ang iba na kumalma ang merkado, napipilitang maghanap ng dagdag-kita ang mga magsasaka. Si Sabilao, halimbawa, ay nagmamaneho ng habal-habal. “Naghahabal-habal [pero] makuri ta kay sige an uru-aragway hiunong sa pila san pasaheros. Yaon man nagkaburubenta man durudigtoy, pero di gud maiwasan an suruki sa parag habal-habal.”

Samantala, nagpasya si Toling na lumuwas ng Maynila para maghanap ng mas siguradong trabaho. “Mapa-Manila muna, sadto pa gad ini nga plano pero dako man pan sun an pisar san lukad. Maupay kasi ngadto an kwarta dudaritso.”

𝐂𝐅𝐈𝐃𝐏 𝐚𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐤𝐨

Ang Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) ay may ₱75 bilyong pondo mula sa buwis ng taumbayan. Unang nilagdaan ito ni dating Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte at ipinagpapatuloy ngayon ni Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Sa kanyang ika-apat na SONA, ipinagmalaki ng Pangulo ang programa: “Mula ngayong taon, hindi bababa sa labing-limang milyong hybrid at mataas na klaseng binhi ng niyog ang ating itatanim... hanggang isandaang milyong puno ng niyog ang maitatanim sa buong bansa.”

Ngunit kahit milyon-milyong puno ang plano, lumuwas pa rin ng Maynila si Toling. Para sa mga magsasaka, hindi tugma sa kanilang agarang pangangailangan ang mga programang magbubunga lamang makalipas ang lima o sampung taon. Ang kailangan nila ay tulong ngayon.

𝐏𝐚𝐠𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐚𝐬 𝐬𝐚 𝐓𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐤𝐚𝐥𝐚

Inilahad ni Engr. Lopez ang mga paraan upang maibsan ang epekto: intercropping, livestock integration, at paggawa ng produktong mula sa niyog gaya ng coco sugar, coco vinegar, virgin coconut oil, at coco net. “That’s why it’s the tree of life... By doing that you’re adding value na mas pa sa copra.”

Hiniling din niya ang suporta ng DOE para mapalakas ang paggamit ng Coco Methyl Ester (CME) sa industriya ng langis. Aniya, “Mabuti kung ma push through yung increase ng CME blend sa biodiesel from 2% to 5% para di tayo masyadong apektado sa global market shifts.” Dagdag pa rito, binigyang-diin niya ang pangangailangan ng community price watch upang maiwasan ang posibleng pang-aabuso ng mga trader.

𝐇𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐩 𝐧𝐠 𝐍𝐢𝐲𝐨𝐠

Sa Northern Samar, higit pa sa pagbagsak ng presyo ang krisis sa kopra—ito ay kuwento ng mga pamilya, kabuhayang nakatali sa iisang ani, at isang probinsyang marupok sa galaw ng merkado. Ang CFIDP ay puno ng pangako, ngunit hanggang hindi bumababa ang epekto nito sa mismong palad ng mangkokopra, mananatili itong nakatanim sa opisina at hindi sa niyugan.

Ang hamon ay malinaw: hindi sapat ang magtanim ng milyon-milyong puno kung mananatiling gutom ang nagtatanim. Ang tunay na reporma ay dapat magsimula sa pagdinig sa tinig ng mga magsasaka—at sa pagbasag sa tanikala ng kopra.¶

Verbo: Jenchor Tendero
Mga kuha ni Wenona Sagonoy
Lapat ni Mark Kendrick Orsua at Paolo Leandro Pinca

The Pillar

12/09/2025

11/09/2025

11/09/2025

11/09/2025

10/09/2025

09/09/2025

08/09/2025

08/09/2025

08/09/2025

07/09/2025

07/09/2025

Address

Opening Hours

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Contact The Business

Shortcuts

Share

Category

Monday	8am - 5pm
Tuesday	8am - 5pm
Wednesday	8am - 5pm
Thursday	8am - 5pm
Friday	8am - 5pm