COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER. Senator Francis Tolentino served as the commencement speaker during the 45th graduation rites of EVSU-Carigara Campus held at Jaro gym, Jaro, Leyte on Thursday, July 18.The senator arrived late as his flight from Manila to Tacloban was delayed due to bad weather. (LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
JARO, Leyte–Senator Francis Tolentino attended the 45th Commencement Exercises of Eastern Visayas State University Carigara Campus, this town where he encouraged the 350 graduates to be more than just graduates, but ambassadors of their school, showcasing their capabilities, vision, and strong foundation.
“Use your education to make change, give inspiration, and create a future full of hope and promise,” the senator said.
Tolentino congratulated the graduates on reaching this extraordinary milestone, acknowledging their dedication and perseverance. “Your hard work has led you to this proud moment,” he added.
He further urged the graduates, as they venture beyond the confines of their university, to remember they carry the hopes and dreams of their families, community, and country.
“I urge all the graduates, whatever achievement or success you gain, love the Philippines, love your country. You are the embodiment of the future we all aspire to build—a future characterized by innovation, compassion, and a steadfast dedication to the greater good,” Tolentino said.
Tolentino praised the graduates for enduring the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic and acknowledged the pivotal role of the school in nurturing the graduates.
“To the esteemed faculty and staff of Eastern Visayas State University Carigara Campus, I extend my deepest gratitude for your dedication to nurturing the minds and spirits of these young individuals. Your commitment to academic excellence and holistic development has played an instrumental role in shaping the leaders of tomorrow,” he said.
As a token of his appreciation, the senator awarded P10,000 cash incentives to the two summa cum laude graduates of the batch for their hard work and dedication. (LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
SAN JUANICO BRIDGE II. The proposed San Juanico Bridge II, shown on its perspective design, will now start in Tacloban City instead in Babatngon, Leyte as proposed by JICA. (DPWH-8)
As proposed by JICA
SAN JUANICO BRIDGE II. The proposed San Juanico Bridge II, shown on its perspective design, will now start in Tacloban City instead in Babatngon, Leyte as proposed by JICA. (DPWH-8)
TACLOBAN CITY – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), speaking through its regional director, Edgar Tabacon, confirmed the relocation of the proposed second San Juanico Bridge from Babatngon town to Tacloban City.
Tabacon stated that the DPWH Unified Monitoring Office cited several reasons for the change in location of the proposed second bridge.
“One is access to two-way traffic. If the new bridge is close to the existing one, one bridge can be designated for Leyte-bound vehicles, while the other can be for Samar-bound vehicles,” he said.
Another consideration is the bridge’s sustainability. If the new bridge is near the existing one, he said, maintenance activities are more manageable since there are already operating maintenance stations on both the Leyte and Samar sides of the existing San Juanico Bridge.
In contrast, if the new bridge were in Babatngon, a new maintenance station would need to be built, Tabacon added.
Additionally, the proximity of the new bridge to Tacloban City, the regional capital of Eastern Visayas, was a factor in the decision.
Under the previous plan, the second San Juanico Bridge would cross the Janbatas Channel, part of the San Juanico Strait separating Samar and Leyte, connecting Babatngon, Leyte, and Sta. Rita, Samar.
In the new proposal, the bridge will be located just a few meters from the existing one, connecting Tacloban and Sta. Rita.
Tabacon noted that the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) presented the Tacloban site as the most feasible option after several consultations.
The new location is the shortest at 1.2 kilometers, resulting in a lower budget.
The JICA study team for the 2nd San Juanico Bridge project began its first of four on-site visits to the bridge route options on November 17, 2023.
The team conducted their second on-site study in the first quarter of this year, with the third assessment scheduled for July and the final visit in September 2024.
JICA is expected to complete their final feasibility study report and detailed engineering design by December 2024.
Tabacon is hopeful that construction of the second San Juanico Bridge will start during President Ferdinand R. Marcos’ term.
He explained that the project requires time, including a feasibility study, loan agreement processing and procurement after which civil works can begin.
Citizens, motorists, and officials of Eastern Visayas have been advocating for the construction of an alternate bridge due to the deteriorating condition of the existing bridge and increasing traffic. (LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
With China continually asserting claims over maritime territories that rightfully belong to the Philippines, there is growing concern over the potential threat posed by Chinese-owned online applications, which could be used by Chinese authorities to eavesdrop and gather sensitive information. Thus, our lawmakers must take decisive action to ban these applications to safeguard national security.
Chinese-owned online applications, such as social media platforms, e-commerce sites, and digital payment systems, have seen widespread adoption in the Philippines. While these apps offer convenience and connectivity, they also pose significant risks. Chinese companies are subject to Chinese laws, which can compel them to share data with the Chinese government. This creates a direct channel through which sensitive information could be accessed, potentially compromising the Philippines’ strategic and economic interests. As China continues its aggressive stance in the South China Sea, the potential for these apps to be used as tools of espionage cannot be ignored.
The security risks associated with these applications are not hypothetical. There have been numerous instances globally where Chinese technology has been flagged for potential espionage. For instance, the United States and several other countries have taken steps to limit the use of Chinese technology in their critical infrastructure. The Philippines must take heed of these precedents and recognize that the stakes are even higher given the ongoing territorial disputes with China. Allowing these apps to operate unchecked within the country is akin to leaving the back door open for potential infiltration.
Banning these applications is not a move against technological advancement but a necessary measure to protect national sovereignty. The Philippine government should encourage the development and use of homegrown apps and technologies, ensuring that the data of Filipino citizens remains within the country’s control. We should uphold local innovation and support Filipino tech companies, instead, so that the Philippines can build a robust digital ecosystem that is both secure and self-sufficient.
The need for Philippine lawmakers to ban Chinese-owned online applications is a matter of national security. The potential for these apps to be used for espionage by Chinese authorities, particularly in light of the ongoing territorial disputes, is an unacceptable risk. The government should safeguard our sovereignty, protect the citizens’ data, and ensure a secure and thriving digital environment. This will not only enhance national security but also drive economic growth and technological independence.
While it’s true that some of the wealthiest and most successful individuals dropped out of school, these cases are exceptions rather than the rule. Many of these dropouts had unique talents, opportunities, or resources that are not available to everyone. For every successful dropout, countless others struggle to make ends meet due to the lack of a formal education. A solid educational background increases the chances of success for many people.
The importance of education for young people cannot be overstated. Despite the occasional disillusionment caused by the success stories of school dropouts who have made it big, formal education remains a crucial foundation for personal and professional development. The school provides more than just academic knowledge; it cultivates critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and social abilities that are indispensable in any field.
First and foremost, schools equip students with essential knowledge and skills that form the basis for lifelong learning. Subjects like mathematics, science, and languages are not just academic disciplines; they teach logical thinking, analytical reasoning, and effective communication. These skills are transferable and beneficial in virtually every profession. Even successful dropouts like Steve Jobs and Bill Gates had a solid grounding in their fields before they left formal education to pursue their ventures.
Moreover, schools offer a structured environment where students can develop discipline and work ethics. Rigorous studies and deadlines teach young people the value of hard work, persistence, and time management. These attributes are critical for success in any endeavor, whether one decides to pursue a traditional career path or start their own business. The ability to persevere through challenging tasks is often what differentiates successful individuals from the rest.
Social interaction is another key benefit of formal education. Schools provide a melting pot of diverse ideas and perspectives, enhancing collaboration and empathy. Students learn to work in teams, respect different viewpoints, and build relationships that can be beneficial in their future careers. Networking opportunities in school can also open doors to various professional and personal opportunities that might not be available otherwise.
Additionally, formal education serves as a safety net. In an unpredictable job market, having a degree can provide a sense of security and more employment options. Employers often use educational qualifications as a criterion for hiring, and having a degree can give candidates a competitive edge. Even entrepreneurs benefit from the knowledge and skills acquired in school, which can help them run their businesses more effectively.
It’s also worth noting that education promotes personal growth and self-awareness. It encourages young people to explore different fields, discover their passions, and develop a sense of purpose. The process of learning and overcoming academic challenges can boost self-confidence and provide a sense of accomplishment that carries over into other aspects of life.
Education likewise contributes to the betterment of society as a whole. Educated individuals are more likely to be informed and engaged citizens, capable of contributing positively to their communities. They are better equipped to tackle societal challenges and drive innovation. Through formal education, young people not only improve their prospects but also contribute to the advancement of society.
Again, while the success stories of dropouts can be inspiring, they should not overshadow the immense value of formal education. Schools provide a foundation of knowledge, discipline, and social skills that are crucial for personal and professional success. For the vast majority of young people, staying in school and embracing rigorous studies remains the surest path to a bright and successful future.
IT’S interesting to note that despite the heavy and tight schedule Christ had during his public life, he always managed to find time to take care of the formation of his disciples. In fact, he invested a lot of time in training them.
St. Mark, in his gospel, noted that “in his public ministry he (Christ) never taught without using parables; but afterward, when he was alone with his disciples, he explained everything to them.” (Mk 4,34)
Christ took care of the formation of his disciples knowing that after living with him, they would be sent to proclaim and explain the Gospel, the Good News, to the people. In that way, the living Word of God would be transmitted from generation to generation.
We need to realize then that we have to take care of our Christian formation if we want to be consistent with our Christian identity as apostles also. A true disciple of Christ cannot but be an apostle also.
Toward this end, we have to realize that we have to acquire nothing less than the wisdom of God as revealed to us by Christ in the Holy Spirit. We have to understand that formation involves assuming the very mind and heart of Christ, the very wisdom of God. It should lead us to center our lives on Christ’s love and to assume God’s plans with creativity and initiative.
Thus, the capacity for reflection is necessary so as to faithfully channel Christ’s love for everyone. We need to go through some philosophical and theological study of our faith, coupled with the appropriate cultural formation so we can be effective in transmitting God’s living word in the middle of the world.
For this, it is vital to acquire a deep and broad vision of the reality in which we live, taking care of studying and reading, and keeping an intense interest in what is happening in the world.
Of course, to be effective in this endeavor, we should be earnest in the pursuing true holiness, a keen love for God and for souls, always remaining simple and humble, because as Christ himself said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and prudent and revealed them to the little ones.” (Mt 11,25)
This is how we can truly get the proper understanding of the doctrine of our Christian faith which can be interpreted in any which way depending on where our heart really is. Pursuing our formation as a function of our own sanctification would prepare us to carry out our duty to do apostolate.
Of special interest these days is how to transmit the living word of God in the media which are now the most powerful tool for evangelization. We need to be good content creators who can manage to attract others because what we tell and show are truly coming from heart that is intimately in relation with God, and not just abstract or impersonal considerations, much less, empty and frivolous stuff.
There is need for us to know how to relate the doctrine of our faith to our daily affairs and to our very serious and big projects and plans, and vice versa. At the moment, this expertise is hardly known, its need hardly felt.
This is the challenge we are facing today as we tackle the increasingly rapid, complex and complicated developments. Let’s hope that we can overcome whatever biases we have that hinder the appreciation of our basic need for Church doctrine in our human affairs.
Networking is a powerful tool that can fuel business growth. By building connections with professionals in your industry, you gain access to valuable resources, collaborations, support, and opportunities. The power of networking lies in its ability to expand your reach, drive referrals, and provide a foundation for business success. Here are six key aspects of the power of networking and how it can contribute to your business growth:
1. Expanding Your Reach:
Networking allows you to expand your reach beyond your immediate circle. By connecting with professionals from various industries and backgrounds, you gain access to a diverse range of knowledge, expertise, and perspectives. This exposure can spark new ideas, collaborations, and partnerships that can drive your business growth.
The phrase “no man is an island” is a metaphor that means no one is entirely self-sufficient or independent. It emphasizes the idea that human beings need social connections and interactions with others in order to thrive and lead fulfilling lives. It suggests that we are all interconnected and depend on each other for support, companionship, and growth.
2. Access to Resources:
Networking opens doors to valuable resources that can benefit your business. Through your network, you can tap into a wealth of information, industry trends, market insights, and best practices. Additionally, your connections may provide access to funding opportunities, mentorship programs, or specialized training that can accelerate your business growth.
By having access to these resources, entrepreneurs can overcome barriers, increase their chances of success, and scale their businesses more effectively. It empowers them to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship and seize growth opportunities.
3. Building a Support System:
Networking allows you to build a supportive community of like-minded individuals who understand the challenges and opportunities of entrepreneurship. These connections can provide emotional support, advice, and guidance during both success and challenging times. Having a strong support system can boost your confidence, motivation, and resilience as you navigate the ups and downs of business growth.
This is the reason why you need to stay close to people who encourage or support you with your vision of growth. Sadly, most of the time, the people whom we think would be 100% supportive of our endeavors are the ones who makes us feel that we made wrong decisions. Stay close to people who are knowledgeable in business and can guide you all through out.
4. Collaboration and Partnerships:
Networking opens doors to potential collaborations and partnerships. By connecting with professionals in complementary industries or those with similar goals, you can explore mutually beneficial opportunities. Collaborative projects, joint ventures, or co-marketing initiatives can expand your customer base, increase brand visibility, and drive business growth.
Collaboration has a tremendous impact on any brand. Just see how influencers nowadays have been sought after by companies or entrepreneurs to help them promote their business. TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram are exploding with these!
5. Learning and Development:
Networking provides opportunities for continuous learning and development. Engaging with industry experts, thought leaders, and experienced professionals allows you to stay updated on the latest trends, technologies, and strategies. Attending networking events, conferences, and workshops can provide valuable insights and knowledge that can be applied to your business, fueling its growth. Always keep in mind the valuable insights of experts. They can help you explore vast opportunities.
6. Referrals and Leads:
Networking is an effective way to generate referrals and leads for your business. When you build strong relationships with individuals in your network, they become familiar with your products or services. As a result, they are more likely to refer potential clients or customers to you. These referrals can lead to new business opportunities and contribute to your overall growth.
Keep in mind that in order for you, as an entrepreneur to succeed, the products and services that you offer should be of 100% quality. Referrals can increase as your business move forward.
In conclusion, networking is a powerful tool for business growth. By expanding your reach, accessing valuable resources, building a support system, fostering collaborations, facilitating learning and development, and generating referrals, networking can propel your business forward. It is crucial to invest time and effort in building and nurturing meaningful connections within your industry and related fields. With a strong network, you can leverage the power of networking to achieve sustainable business growth and success.
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If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts on the column, feel free to send an email to jca.bblueprint@gmail.com. Looking forward to connecting with you!
