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COMMUP Launches ‘COMMbati Iskolar!’ to Support Students During Midterms

October 17, 2024 October 18, 2024

On October 7, 2024, the Communicators of UP (COMMUP) proudly launched “COMMbati Iskolar! Workshop Tutorial Sessions,” an initiative designed to provide valuable academic support to Communication students preparing for this semester’s midterm exams.

This student-led effort aims to assist students across a range of courses, helping them navigate their studies and excel during the midterm period. By fostering collaboration, the workshop seeks to empower students, deepen their understanding of key concepts, and ultimately enhance their academic success.

The initiative was driven by selected DukiTuki 2024 awardees, who played pivotal roles as student mentors. The sessions featured discussions and open forums, providing guidance to help students meet their course requirements.

Tutors included the following Communication students:

Maybelle Grace Aton (COMM 107: Communication Research)
Oona Colie Arellano and Emanuel Van Paler (COMM 154: Introduction to Digital Storytelling)
Jade Himalaloan and Lynda Mecaros (COMM 104: Communication Theories)
Elizabeth Alarde (COMM 106: Media Law and Ethics)
Blessy Shekinah Padillo and Yza Belah Mari Empleo (COMM 100: Introduction to Communication)

Jade Himalaloan, COMMUP Chairperson and Communication Theories student mentor, emphasized that the initiative represents COMMUP’s commitment to providing academic assistance, particularly in light of the recent removal of the reading break.

“As an academic organization, it is our primordial duty to extend academic assistance to all our members. With the removal of the reading break, we saw and experienced firsthand the taxing midterm season. Hence, COMMbati Iskolar! aims to motivate, support, and stand with our constituents in these hard times,” Himalaloan said.

The absence of a reading break this semester posed a significant challenge, adding to the stress of midterm exam preparation. Recognizing this, the workshop tutorial sessions became an invaluable resource, helping to alleviate the strain caused by the compressed academic schedule.

By encouraging peer cooperation, these sessions established a supportive learning environment that boosted students’ performance during this rigorous period. Through collaboration, students were able to share insights, strategies, and knowledge, maximizing the effectiveness of their study efforts. (Van Guevara/BA Communication 2)

Cine Europa 27 Brings European Cinema to UP Cebu: Screenings Set for Oct 22-27 at Lawak Sinehan

October 17, 2024 October 17, 2024

Cine Europa, now in its 27th year, is bringing the best of European cinema to UP Cebu, where film enthusiasts can enjoy a selection of 11 contemporary films from European Union Member States. This year’s lineup also includes contributions from the Alliance Française de Manille, Goethe Institut, Instituto Cervantes, the Philippine Italian Association, and guest country Ukraine, showcasing the creativity and diversity of European filmmaking.

From powerful dramas to imaginative comedies and stunning animations, Cine Europa 27 promises a range of cinematic experiences that highlight the excellence of European cinema.

The festival will open nationwide on October 18 with the Polish film “Dangerous Gentlemen” at Shangri-La Plaza in Mandaluyong City.

Following the launch, Cine Europa 27 will travel to various venues, including the University of the Philippines Cebu, where screenings will be held on October 22-27, 2024, at Lawak Sinehan. Other locations include the University of the Cordilleras in Baguio, University of San Agustin in Iloilo, and University of St. La Salle in Bacolod, from October 18 to 27, 2024.

Screenings at UP Cebu are free and open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, visit the Cine Europa 27 Facebook page.

11 Films to Watch Out For

This year’s lineup features a vibrant array of films, each presenting unique narratives that showcase the diverse cultural fabric of Europe.

1. Long Story Short (Denmark, 2015)

Director: May el-Toukhy, Maren Louise Käehne

A heartfelt ensemble comedy-drama, chronicling the tangled love lives of a group of friends, each seeking romantic redemption over the course of eight parties.

Runtime: 90 min

2. The Other Side of Hope (Finland, 2017)

Director: Aki Kaurismäki

This poignant drama about a Syrian refugee and a middle-aged Finnish salesman explores the deep humanity and unexpected kindness amidst adversity, spiced with Kaurismäki’s trademark humor.

Runtime: 98 min

3. She Came at Night (Czech Republic, 2023)

Directors: Jan Vejnar, Tomáš Pavlíček

This black-humor-infused home invasion horror follows a couple whose lives are turned upside down when one of their mothers takes over their home—and their sanity.

Runtime: 85 min

4. La Flota de Indias (Spain, 2021)

Director: Antonio Perez Molero

A powerful documentary exploring the historical and cultural impact of the Spanish fleets that transformed the New World and fuelled globalization over two centuries.

Runtime: 61 min

5. Icarus (Luxembourg,2022)

Director: Carlo Vogele

In this animated film, Icarus, the apprentice of Daedalus, forms a secret friendship with the Minotaur before facing disillusionment and a tragic choice when King Minos confines his friend to the labyrinth and Prince Theseus arrives to confront the monster.

Runtime: 76 min.

6. Mermaids Don’t Cry (Austria, 2022)

Director: Franziska Pflaum

Annika, a supermarket saleswoman struggling with her chaotic life, dreams of acquiring a glamorous mermaid fin that costs 2.458 euros, despite facing family challenges, potential layoffs at work, and a complicated love life.

Runtime: 92 min.

7. The Man Without Guilt (Slovenia, 2022)

Director: Ivan Gergolet

In Trieste, Angela, a widow whose husband died from asbestos exposure, takes a caregiving job for Francesco, her husband’s former employer, to seek revenge but ultimately discovers that her actions lead to unexpected truths and the possibility of forgiveness and a new beginning.

Runtime: 112 min.

8. The Man with the Answers (Cyprus, 2021)

Director: Stelios Kammitsis

After his grandmother’s death, Victor leaves his village in a dilapidated car to find his estranged mother in Germany, picking up hitchhiker Mattias along the way, leading to a profound bond despite their differing personalities during their journey through the Italian countryside.

Runtime: 80 min.

9. The Strange Case of Jacky Caillou (France, 2022)

Director: Lucas Delangle

In a mountain village in the French Alps, young Jacky Caillou, who lives with his grandmother Gisèle, a renowned magnetizer-healer, becomes determined to heal a city woman who arrives with a mysterious stain on her body, believing he can perform a miracle.

Runtime: 92 min.

10. Diabolik (Italy, 2021)

Director. Antonio Manetti & Marco Manetti

In 1960s Clerville, the thrilling encounters between the enigmatic Diabolik and the alluring Eva Kant blend romance and crime, with Inspector Ginko determined to foil their plans.

Runtime: 133 min.

11. Taste of Freedom (Ukraine, 2024)

Director: Alexander Berezan

In the vibrant streets of Lviv, a young cook pursues her dream of becoming a chef at a prestigious restaurant, but her life takes a surprising turn when she discovers a 1929 cookbook by the legendary chef Olga Franko, leading her on a journey of self-discovery and belief in herself amidst the challenges of success.

Runtime: 117 min.

See event poster above to know the exact screening dates of the films.

(Source: Delegation of the European Union to the PH website)

Tañongon, Jore Bridge Art, Science, and Indigenous Knowledge at 30th AMIC Conference in Beijing

October 1, 2024 October 1, 2024

Communication Program Coordinator Dr. Crina E. Tañongon and Fine Arts-Product Design Coordinator Asst. Prof. Jay Nathan T. Jore presented the groundbreaking first phase of their research project, “Communicating Science: Bridging Science and the Arts for a Multidisciplinary Response to Loss and Damage from Climate Change in the Visayas, Philippines” at the 30th Asian Media Information and Communication (AMIC) Conference in Beijing, China.

They were joined by co-researcher Dr. Brisneve Edullantes from the Department of Biology and Environmental Science, adding scientific depth to this innovative collaboration.

The project highlights the lived experiences of a fishing community on Zaragosa Island, Badian, Cebu, using hand-drawn maps and personal narratives to document how climate change is affecting their lives.

By placing Indigenous and local knowledge systems at the forefront, this initiative challenges conventional approaches to climate knowledge, aiming to decolonize how science communicates with and supports vulnerable communities. The research integrates these community stories with hard data to develop more effective, community-centered strategies for adapting to climate change.

Asst. Prof. Jore’s ethnographic work, previously showcased in the exhibit Duyan ang Kadagatan (Cradled by the Sea), reveals the emotional and cultural losses experienced by Cebu’s coastal communities as they grapple with rising seas and changing weather patterns.

Dr. Edullantes complements this by documenting scientific phenomena such as extreme temperature spikes, algal blooms, and coral bleaching that threaten the region’s delicate marine ecosystem.

Their multidisciplinary approach offers a fresh, holistic way of communicating climate change impacts, bridging the gap between art, science, and the voices of those most affected.

The AMIC Conference, hosted by the Communication University of China, drew over 300 participants from across Asia and the Pacific. The event celebrated the diversity of Asian cultures under the theme Asia as a (Knowledge) Sharing Society and the Internationalization of Higher Education, and emphasized the importance of collaboration in fostering a more caring and empowered Asian society.

This research project, with its blend of art, science, and local knowledge, perfectly embodied that mission.

Text by: Dr. Crina Tañongon

Photos: Asst. Prof. Jay Nathan Jore

UP Cebu’s 1081 Exhibit Calls for Remembrance, Resistance, and Reflection on Martial Law

October 1, 2024 October 1, 2024

When President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. declared martial law in the Philippines, it had a profound and lasting impact on Filipino society. Understanding these effects, particularly on democracy and governance, is essential to raising awareness of the injustices endured during that period. Remembering the victims’ stories and seeking the truth are critical acts of resistance.

In commemoration of Martial Law, the Communicators of UP (COMMUP) and the UP Cebu Martial Law Day of Remembrance (MLDR) Committee organized the annual 1081 Exhibit. This year’s theme, “Tagubtob sa Kamatuoran: Remember, Reveal, and Resist,” focused on the experiences of Martial Law victims and aimed to educate the youth about the atrocities committed during the Marcos regime.

The commemoration began on September 19 with the theme “Pagmatngon,” featuring an engaging opening program alongside the launch of a multimedia and art exhibit. A highlight of the event was a performance by the UP Students’ Theater Arts Guild for Education (UPSTAGE), which powerfully portrayed the real-life stories of Martial Law victims, bringing their experiences to light.

In addition to this poignant performance, numerous artists contributed to the exhibit, using their creative talents to expose the truth behind the dictator’s intentions and the injustices of that era. The event attracted students from various universities, fostering solidarity and raising awareness among the younger generation about the historical significance of Martial Law in the Philippines. Other activities included a film screening, a radio talk, a journalism-focused event organized by CDN Digital, and a panel discussion.

On September 20, the second day of commemoration, themed “Paghandom,” featured a cultural night that brought together a diverse group of speakers and performers. Speakers from various sectors, including individuals who were victims of Martial Law, shared their powerful testimonies.

The evening also showcased dynamic performances by UP Sayaw Evolution and UPSTAGE, adding artistic depth to the event. Following the performances, a protest action was held, where speakers from different colleges addressed the issues and challenges they face, highlighting the ongoing struggles for justice and awareness within both society and the university.

On September 21, the theme “Pagbatok” was represented through a multi-sectoral mobilization in downtown Cebu City, in collaboration with other organizations and schools. The next day, a basic mass immersion was conducted in various areas of Cebu, including Carbon, Coke, Mandaue, Piston, and Toledo. These initiatives aimed to better understand how both the past and present administrations have impacted people’s lives and to amplify their voices and concerns.

The 1081 Exhibit serves as a powerful reminder of how the Marcos regime abused its power and violated basic human rights. Through panel discussions, educational forums, film screenings, performances, and community engagement, we are reminded of the pain of the past and our responsibility to ensure such mistakes are never repeated.

Text and photos: Van Guevara/BA Communication 2 and COMMUP Secretary General for Publicity

Cebuano Designer Harvey Cenit Dresses Latin Icon Thalia at MTV VMAs

September 25, 2024 September 25, 2024

Cebu-born fashion designer Harvey Cenit has once again demonstrated his creative prowess, this time on the global stage at the MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs), where Latin pop icon Thalia wore his stunning metallic leather gown. The Dubai-based designer, a graduate of Bachelor of Fine Arts-Studio Arts from UP Cebu, continues to elevate Filipino fashion with his intricate, sophisticated designs.

Thalia, best known for her role in the popular TV series Marimar, dazzled on the black carpet at New York’s UBS Arena in Cenit’s custom-made gown, which took 240 hours to complete. The gown—a tribute to Thalia’s iconic character Rosalinda—was crafted from metallic leather and adorned with a cabbage rose detail.

Speaking to Expat Media, Cenit expressed his excitement at seeing his work on one of his favorite stars, sharing, “As a young designer, I always wanted to dress her up, and I didn’t think this was even possible way back. Now 24 years later, from Kawit, Medellin to the world, it’s a dream come true.”Cenit’s journey to becoming a fashion sensation began in his hometown of Medellin in northern Cebu. Before making waves internationally, Cenit established himself in the fashion world by dressing Miss Universe Philippines Cebu contestant Kris Tiffany Janson and showcasing his collections alongside renowned Filipino designers Michael Cinco, Ezra Santos, and Furne One.

His rise continued when he won Fashion Factor Season 3, one of the UAE’s most prestigious fashion competitions. This achievement was followed by being named Most Promising Fashion Designer of the Year at the 2016 Filipino Times Awards.

After building his name in the Philippines, Cenit spent five years in the Emirates designing for women across the Gulf region. His talent earned him the position of Head Designer at the esteemed fashion house Al Arousa Al Aniqah.

Known for blending classic and contemporary elements, Cenit’s designs exude femininity and elegance, avoiding overly bold aesthetics while maintaining a balanced, sophisticated appeal. His unique vision has garnered international recognition, and he has since dressed global celebrities, including former Miss Universe Catriona Gray.

Cenit’s collaboration with Thalia came about when her stylist reached out to him via Instagram, requesting a custom piece. Originally intended for the Latin Music Video Awards, the gown was reserved for the VMAs, where Thalia joined other A-list stars like Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish. Reflecting on the experience, Cenit said, “I felt so happy. Very happy because I’m a huge fan, and it was really nice talking to her. She is really kind and grateful.” Thalia even followed Cenit on Instagram, tagging him and commenting on his post—a moment of triumph for the Cebuano designer.

Beyond his personal success, Cenit remains committed to giving back to his community, particularly young designers. His dedication to mentoring Cebuano talents mirrors the support he received from prominent fashion figures who influenced his work. Cenit continues to share his knowledge, believing in the importance of uplifting the next generation of Filipino designers before fully stepping into the global fashion arena.

For Harvey Cenit, the road from Medellin, Cebu to the international fashion scene has been paved with hard work, dedication, and an unwavering passion for his craft. As a rising star in the fashion world, Cenit’s designs continue to captivate audiences globally, with his latest creation for Thalia at the VMAs cementing his place as a designer to watch on the world stage.

Article Source: Expatmedia.net and SunStar Cebu

From UP Cebu to Beijing: MassComm Alumna Cris Evert Lato Ruffolo Awarded Full Scholarship for Journalism Research

September 25, 2024 September 25, 2024

Cris Evert Lato Ruffolo, an independent journalist from Cebu and an alumna of UP Cebu, has been awarded a research fellowship at Renmin University of China (RUC) in Beijing through the Asean-China Young Leaders Scholarship Program. This prestigious full scholarship covers her tuition, accommodation, monthly living allowance, and medical insurance.

Ruffolo, who is enrolled in RUC’s highly esteemed School of Journalism and Communication—ranked as an A+ Class discipline in China—will now have the opportunity to continue her academic pursuits in the country. Her nomination for the scholarship was endorsed by the Chinese Consulate-General in Cebu.

In a Facebook post on her personal blog, Lady With Backpack, Ruffolo shared how her desire to push beyond her limits led to this opportunity: “I had enough. I wanted something more. I wanted to study in China again and use my language skills and write a book again and get published in academic journals again and again. I manifested this to the universe and fervently hoped that an opportunity [would] come without me spending family money. And it came.” Her passion for continuous learning and perseverance led her to this prestigious fellowship.

She also emphasized the importance of building meaningful connections in her journey, writing, “If you manifest it; if you work hard and smart for it; and if you strive to make it happen. It also helps that you make great connections and strong networks. Burn a few bridges along the way but take care of the worthy ones.”

Ruffolo’s journalism career began during her time as a mass communication student at UP Cebu. She recalls her early work being published by SunStar Superbalita and SunStar Cebu as she took journalism classes under the guidance of Assistant Professor Mayette Tabada. Later, she gained valuable experience during her internship and early reporting career at Cebu Daily News, where Nestor Baylon Ramirez, now with SunStar, was the day desk editor.

Since then, Ruffolo has worked with various media platforms, including CDN Digital and Cebu Daily News, where she held roles such as reporter, copyeditor, and managing editor. She began her journalism career writing for the Philippine Daily Inquirer, Sun.Star Cebu, and The Freeman. Currently, she covers travel, business, economics, and human-interest stories as an independent journalist.

Ruffolo is also the chairperson and co-founder of Basadours Inc., a non-profit organization that promotes literacy through community-based storytelling and art workshops.

Academically, Ruffolo graduated with a degree in mass communication from UP Cebu in 2007 and holds diplomas in language and literacy education and professional education. She is a licensed professional teacher and has previously studied Chinese Language and Culture at leading institutions in the Philippines and China.

As part of her fellowship, Ruffolo will take courses on journalism research, media technology, global communication, and English news writing. Her research focuses on how peer support groups in Cebu use TikTok to combat online child sexual exploitation. In addition, she will develop a trilingual children’s storybook in Binisaya, English, and Chinese, which will highlight the cultural ties between the Philippines and China.

The Asean-China Young Leaders Scholarship Program aims to foster educational cooperation and people-to-people connections between China and ASEAN countries. Ruffolo’s participation exemplifies how passion, dedication, and a well-built network can turn aspirations into reality.

Article Source: SunStar Cebu

BFA Student Leodito Bongo Wins 2nd Grand Prize in Petron Nat’l Painting Competition ’24

September 19, 2024 September 19, 2024

Leodito “Leo” Rosales Bongo III, a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Arts major at the University of the Philippines Cebu, has been named the Second Grand Prize Winner in the Watercolor Painting category of the 2024 Vision Petron National Student Painting Competition.

His winning piece, “Amoma,” was selected for this year’s competition, which revolved around the theme “Ugnayan,” a reflection of the deep connections that bind individuals and communities.

A native of Tanke dos, Taboc Camalig Bato, Danao City, Bongo is no stranger to success. In 2020, he won the championship at the 7th World Youth Art Festival in South Korea, besting over 100 young artists worldwide with his medium-sized acrylic pieces. Bongo credits much of his success to his mentor, renowned Cebuano artist Celso Pepito, who encouraged him to compete.

Bongo’s latest recognition at the Vision Petron competition is yet another testament to his growing influence in the art world. The award ceremony is set to take place in Manila, where Bongo will be officially recognized for his achievement.

Apart from his recent wins, Bongo has made a mark in various national art competitions. He was among the Top 7 finalists in the Oil/Acrylic painting category of the 56th Shell National Students Art Competition (NSAC) in 2023, a contest that saw over 3,000 entries nationwide. His peers from UP Cebu also achieved notable success, with Judhea Java securing the 1st Prize in the same category and Edward Romero winning 2nd Prize in Watercolor.

Leo’s accomplishments serve as an inspiration to young artists, not only in Cebu but across the country, proving that passion and hard work can lead to success on both national and international stages.

Article Source: CDN Digital and UP Cebu Fine Arts Facebook Page

Eden Sabolboro, UPC MassComm Alumna, Wins Emmy for “Senghor Reid” Documentary

September 17, 2024 September 17, 2024

Filipino-American filmmaker Eden Sabolboro, an alumna of Mass Communication at UP Cebu (Class of 2007), has made waves in the U.S. film industry with her Emmy Award-winning documentary “Senghor Reid: Make Way for Tomorrow.”

The film, which earned the Michigan chapter of the Emmy Awards’ top spot in the Cultural Documentary category, delves into the life and work of Detroit-based artist Senghor Reid. Through his multidisciplinary art, Reid addresses issues like environmental justice and the African-American experience, making the film a powerful exploration of contemporary challenges.

Sabolboro, who migrated to the U.S. in 2014, co-directed and produced the documentary under Reel Clever Films, a production company she co-founded. In her reflection on the project, Sabolboro expressed hope that it will inspire audiences to see the interconnectedness of our environment, communities, and histories, highlighting the possibility of growth and progress despite uncertainties.

“I co-founded Reel Clever Films LLC back in 2017 because as a new immigrant, all the doors I knocked on were firmly closed on me. Dozens of applications and outreach emails went unanswered, so I chose to go out and bet on myself. Less than ten years later, myself and the humble startup that could is a Webby-nominated, two-time Emmy-Award winning production team that only continues to grow and evolve. We did that by staying true to our mission since day one: to empower underrepresented voices and narratives such as ourselves, both in front of and behind the camera,” Eden wrote in her recently published post on LinkedIn.

The Filipina-American filmmaker is currently working on a full-length documentary exploring the influence of Filipino-American musicians, further contributing to her mission of telling stories that resonate with her heritage.

Article source: Clint Holton Potestas, EsquireMag.ph

Montera Reps PH, Tackles Geopolitical Tensions at 15th Gwangju Biennale

September 17, 2024 September 17, 2024

Dr. Dennis “Sio” Montera proudly represented the Philippines at the 15th Gwangju Biennale in South Korea from August 25 to September 8, 2024. The Gwangju Biennale, Asia’s oldest and most prestigious biennial for contemporary art, serves as a vital platform for exploring pressing social, cultural, and political themes.

Dr. Montera contributed to the Philippine Pavilion exhibit titled “Locations of Freedom,” curated by multidisciplinary artist Avie Felix. His piece, a panoramic composition, addresses territorial tensions in the West Philippine Sea and surrounding contested waters. Montera described the work as “a statement piece that expresses personal sentiments on the current tension in these contested areas in relation to my interpretation of locations of freedom.”

The piece stands out for its methodical approach, a departure from Montera’s usual improvisational style. “What makes this piece different from previous works is the deviation from my usual process of having no predetermined composition,” Montera explained. “Actual lines were drawn from the onset to demarcate certain areas of the picture plane to establish the concept of territorial boundaries of neighboring countries.”

Montera’s work, consisting of 18 layers and topped with splatters of color symbolizing the volatility of water, emphasizes the fear that growing maritime disputes could escalate into armed conflict. “The idea of the conflict escalating to a worst-case scenario is very disturbing,” he reflected. “The artwork tries to capture the sentiments of everyone who values peace and freedom, as the ongoing disputes might break out into armed conflict.”

For Montera, “locations of freedom” represent places where life is richer and more peaceful, rooted in his experience of living in an archipelago. “Locations of freedom is my concept of where heaven on earth is, my happy place, albeit metaphorically,” he shared.

The Philippine Pavilion exhibit will remain on display at the Gwangju Biennale until December 1, 2024.

Apa Explores Religion and Modern Society in New Art Exhibit

September 17, 2024 September 17, 2024

UP Cebu Fine Arts faculty member Asst. Prof. Ivy Marie Apa, a recipient of the prestigious International Artist Residency 2024 grant from Khon Kaen University in Thailand, recently showcased her solo exhibition “Tender Notes: Drawings of the Sacred and the Secular.” The exhibit, a highlight of her residency from August 24 to September 18, 2024, featured an Artist Reception on August 30 at The Treasury Museum in Khon Kaen.

Apa’s work, deeply inspired by philosopher Ludwig Feuerbach’s critique of Christianity, explores the idea that humans project their desires onto the concept of God, making religion a reflection of human qualities. She connects this with Guy Debord’s critique of the “spectacle” in modern society, where human experiences are commodified and mediated through images.

Through her art, Apa interrogates the fetishisms present in visual and textual mediations, shaped by traditions like the Greco-Judeo-Christian legacy. Her work offers commentary on how these traditions influence daily life and the consumption of images, suggesting that modern society replaces sacred beliefs with the commodification of reality.

Apa’s exhibit invites reflection on the intersection of religion, tradition, and the commodification of modern life.