By Erika Tapalla
QUEZON CITY, Philippines -- Ateneo de Manila University Student Council President Karl Satinitigan is encouraging a dialogue regarding the Human Security Act (HSA) or the Anti-Terror Law.
“Having a stand may not necessarily be the best way to address the issue,” said Satinitigan in an interview after meeting with other local universities. “After all, the Human Security Act has its merits and bad points and it may be necessary to soberly review it first.”
For the next few weeks, resource persons will discuss this issue with the student council with dates and venues to be announced later. So far, the Ateneo Human Rights Center, Simbahang Lingkod ng Bayan and Kabataan Partylist, to name a few, have expressed great interest in the subject matter.
Considering the concerns of bishops and human rights advocates, Satinitigan believes students should be aware of the issue and vocalize their opinions to come up with constructive means to deal with the national security issue.
“We’re figuring out newer, more effective means of spreading the word,” said Satinitigan, “The challenge is to have something constructive out of all of this.”
On July 14, 2007, the HSA institutionalized protection against terrorism.
The Anti-Terror Law states that “It is State policy to protect life, liberty and property from acts of terrorism…dangerous to the national security of the country and to the welfare of the people, and to make terrorism a crime against the Filipino people, against humanity and against the law of nations.”
Although there is no clear-cut definition for the term “terrorism” agreed upon by the international community, Sec. 3 of the HSA illustrates examples of terrorism. Some samples include rebellion or insurrection, coup d’etat, piracy and mutiny in Philippine waters.
As a student body, Satinitigan stresses that it is the Sanggunian’s role to get the students involved in the national issue and present the entirety of the subject matter to facilitate free thinking and judgment.
Saturday, July 21, 2007
(UPDATED) A Long way to go
by Erika Tapalla
QUEZON CITY, Philippines -- With his deep blue eyes, dirty blonde ‘do, and toned physique, Kirk Long can easily make girls swoon. But he’s not just a pretty boy. He’s Ateneo de Manila University’s basketball recruit on full scholarship, anxious to spread his wings as a Blue Eagle in Season 70 of the University Athletics Association of the Philippines (UAAP).
Once the word became official, Kirk was hyped up, leaving university students at the edge of their seats waiting to see this guy in action.
Now that the UAAP basketball season has commenced, Kirk was barely seen where he was expected to be -- on court.
“Coach just wants to wait and doesn’t want to put me in a position where I’m gonna fail and be discouraged. I still have a long way to go, have a lot to learn, so I’ll wait for my time to come,” he says.
Kirk has always loved basketball. As a child he frequently played with toy basketballs and mini-hoops given him by his father. Growing up in the Philippines where basketball is arguably the most popular sport further heightened his interest.
Although it is apparent that basketball is very important to Kirk, there’s more to him than his long strides, fast hands and high jumps.
“I’m learning to be a well-rounded person, focus on my studies and have some quiet spiritual time because putting all your trust and hope in basketball is not enough,” Kirk says.
His parents transferred from Kansas, USA to the Philippines when he was two-and-a-half years old. They came to the country as missionaries to spread the Gospel and accept Jesus Christ as their personal savior. They subsequently established a home for street kids at Valley Golf in Antipolo.
“I try to have a good testimony with God, ask for forgiveness for all my sins and keep good relationships with people around me both on- and off-court,” Kirk says.
He values friendship highly and has formed strong relationships during his stay.
“I guess I’m an emotional guy,” he says somewhat bashfully. “When things don’t go right, when my friends leave, it tends to carry over to other things and I have to learn how to control my emotions so I could focus.”
With a boyish smile, Kirk states he is still in the process of learning how to balance his time.
“It’s always fun to go out with friends and hang out, but I have to make sure I use my time wisely,” Kirk says.
Rising popularity and amazing skills aside, he’s still an ordinary guy anyone can easily talk to whether it be about his nonexistent love life or basketball.
QUEZON CITY, Philippines -- With his deep blue eyes, dirty blonde ‘do, and toned physique, Kirk Long can easily make girls swoon. But he’s not just a pretty boy. He’s Ateneo de Manila University’s basketball recruit on full scholarship, anxious to spread his wings as a Blue Eagle in Season 70 of the University Athletics Association of the Philippines (UAAP).
Once the word became official, Kirk was hyped up, leaving university students at the edge of their seats waiting to see this guy in action. Now that the UAAP basketball season has commenced, Kirk was barely seen where he was expected to be -- on court.
“Coach just wants to wait and doesn’t want to put me in a position where I’m gonna fail and be discouraged. I still have a long way to go, have a lot to learn, so I’ll wait for my time to come,” he says.
Kirk has always loved basketball. As a child he frequently played with toy basketballs and mini-hoops given him by his father. Growing up in the Philippines where basketball is arguably the most popular sport further heightened his interest.
Although it is apparent that basketball is very important to Kirk, there’s more to him than his long strides, fast hands and high jumps.
“I’m learning to be a well-rounded person, focus on my studies and have some quiet spiritual time because putting all your trust and hope in basketball is not enough,” Kirk says.
His parents transferred from Kansas, USA to the Philippines when he was two-and-a-half years old. They came to the country as missionaries to spread the Gospel and accept Jesus Christ as their personal savior. They subsequently established a home for street kids at Valley Golf in Antipolo.
“I try to have a good testimony with God, ask for forgiveness for all my sins and keep good relationships with people around me both on- and off-court,” Kirk says.
He values friendship highly and has formed strong relationships during his stay.
“I guess I’m an emotional guy,” he says somewhat bashfully. “When things don’t go right, when my friends leave, it tends to carry over to other things and I have to learn how to control my emotions so I could focus.”
With a boyish smile, Kirk states he is still in the process of learning how to balance his time.
“It’s always fun to go out with friends and hang out, but I have to make sure I use my time wisely,” Kirk says.
Rising popularity and amazing skills aside, he’s still an ordinary guy anyone can easily talk to whether it be about his nonexistent love life or basketball.
(UPDATED) Katipunan security tightens, hold-up incidents down 85%
by Acor Arceo
QUEZON CITY, Philippines -- Katipunan Avenue is now safer for students, according to Loyola Heights Barangay Public Security Officer Napoleon Casipe.
Casipe said that with the implementation of tightened security and foot patrols when classes started last June, the hold-up incidents lessened by 85 percent.
“Before, students were victimized frequently,” he said in an interview. “Now, hold-up cases and snatching incidents have considerably lessened.”
Katipunan Avenue is home to several schools, including the Ateneo de Manila University, Miriam College and Kostka School.
Before, men riding motorcycles and cars without plate numbers often victimized students walking along Katipunan. Casipe said that these suspects often escaped before victims could report the incident to the authorities.
Now, however, armed Barangay Security and Development Office (BSDO) personnel have been stationed at the Katipunan footbridges. A policeman from PNP Station 9 on Anonas also patrols the area.
Ateneo student and Katipunan dormer Gino Trinidad said he feels safer knowing that security personnel are now active.
“That’s good, especially at night since it’s really scary to walk along Katipunan when it’s dark,” he said in Filipino.
Meanwhile, Ateneo Security Detachment Commander Avelino Guzilan said the Ateneo appreciates the efforts of the BSDO and PNP Station 9 in securing the area.
“That’s a good move by the BSDO. Criminals are now afraid to strike in Katipunan,” he said in a mix of English and Filipino. “Students are much safer now.”
QUEZON CITY, Philippines -- Katipunan Avenue is now safer for students, according to Loyola Heights Barangay Public Security Officer Napoleon Casipe.
Casipe said that with the implementation of tightened security and foot patrols when classes started last June, the hold-up incidents lessened by 85 percent.
“Before, students were victimized frequently,” he said in an interview. “Now, hold-up cases and snatching incidents have considerably lessened.”
Katipunan Avenue is home to several schools, including the Ateneo de Manila University, Miriam College and Kostka School.
Before, men riding motorcycles and cars without plate numbers often victimized students walking along Katipunan. Casipe said that these suspects often escaped before victims could report the incident to the authorities.
Now, however, armed Barangay Security and Development Office (BSDO) personnel have been stationed at the Katipunan footbridges. A policeman from PNP Station 9 on Anonas also patrols the area.
Ateneo student and Katipunan dormer Gino Trinidad said he feels safer knowing that security personnel are now active.
“That’s good, especially at night since it’s really scary to walk along Katipunan when it’s dark,” he said in Filipino.
Meanwhile, Ateneo Security Detachment Commander Avelino Guzilan said the Ateneo appreciates the efforts of the BSDO and PNP Station 9 in securing the area.
“That’s a good move by the BSDO. Criminals are now afraid to strike in Katipunan,” he said in a mix of English and Filipino. “Students are much safer now.”
Friday, July 20, 2007
Filipino students get involved to issue of National Security
By: Erika Tapalla
QUEZON CITY, Philippines --- Ateneo de Manila University Student Council President Karl Satinitigan encourages dialogue among constituents regarding the Human Security Act (HSA), a.k.a. Anti-Terror Law.
After meeting with other local universities, Satinitigan says, "Having a stand may not necessarily be the best way to address the issue. After all, the Human Security Act has its merits and bad points and it may be necessary to soberly review it first.”
For the next few weeks, resource persons will discuss this issue with the student council with dates and venues to be announced. So far, the Ateneo Human Rights Center, Simbahang Lingkod ng Bayan, and Kabataan Partylist, to name a few, have expressed great interest in the subject matter.
Considering the concerns of bishops and human rights advocates, Satinitigan believes that students at the very least should be aware of the issue, and vocalize their opinions so as to come up with constructive means to deal with the national security issue.
“We’re figuring out newer, more effective means of spreading the word, ” states Satinitigan, “The challenge is to have something constructive out of all of this.”
Effective July 14 2007, The HSA urges protection against terrorism.
Law states, “It is State policy to protect life, liberty, and property from acts of terrorism,…dangerous to the national security of the country and to the welfare of the people, and to make terrorism a crime against the Filipino people, against humanity, and against the law of nations.”
Although there is no clear cut definition for the term ‘terrorism’ shared in the international community, Sec. 3 of the HSA illustrates examples of terrorism. Some samples include rebellion or insurrection, coup d’Etat, piracy, and mutiny in Philippine waters.
However, Chair of the Free Legal Assistance Group (FLAG) Jose Diokno, states in an article, “The HSA is so vague that it can be used against just about anyone, including you and me. The law is so sweeping that it can be used to curtain the rights of persons merely suspected of terrorism, even if they have been granted bail because the evidence of their guilt is not strong. And the law is so dangerous that, unless repealed, it will destroy the Bill of Rights of the Constitution and rip apart the very fabric of our democratic system.”
As a student body, Satinitigan stresses that it is the Sanggunian’s role to get the students involved in the national issue and present the entirety of the subject matter to facilitate free thinking and judgment.
QUEZON CITY, Philippines --- Ateneo de Manila University Student Council President Karl Satinitigan encourages dialogue among constituents regarding the Human Security Act (HSA), a.k.a. Anti-Terror Law.
After meeting with other local universities, Satinitigan says, "Having a stand may not necessarily be the best way to address the issue. After all, the Human Security Act has its merits and bad points and it may be necessary to soberly review it first.”
For the next few weeks, resource persons will discuss this issue with the student council with dates and venues to be announced. So far, the Ateneo Human Rights Center, Simbahang Lingkod ng Bayan, and Kabataan Partylist, to name a few, have expressed great interest in the subject matter.
Considering the concerns of bishops and human rights advocates, Satinitigan believes that students at the very least should be aware of the issue, and vocalize their opinions so as to come up with constructive means to deal with the national security issue.
“We’re figuring out newer, more effective means of spreading the word, ” states Satinitigan, “The challenge is to have something constructive out of all of this.”
Effective July 14 2007, The HSA urges protection against terrorism.
Law states, “It is State policy to protect life, liberty, and property from acts of terrorism,…dangerous to the national security of the country and to the welfare of the people, and to make terrorism a crime against the Filipino people, against humanity, and against the law of nations.”
Although there is no clear cut definition for the term ‘terrorism’ shared in the international community, Sec. 3 of the HSA illustrates examples of terrorism. Some samples include rebellion or insurrection, coup d’Etat, piracy, and mutiny in Philippine waters.
However, Chair of the Free Legal Assistance Group (FLAG) Jose Diokno, states in an article, “The HSA is so vague that it can be used against just about anyone, including you and me. The law is so sweeping that it can be used to curtain the rights of persons merely suspected of terrorism, even if they have been granted bail because the evidence of their guilt is not strong. And the law is so dangerous that, unless repealed, it will destroy the Bill of Rights of the Constitution and rip apart the very fabric of our democratic system.”
As a student body, Satinitigan stresses that it is the Sanggunian’s role to get the students involved in the national issue and present the entirety of the subject matter to facilitate free thinking and judgment.
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Katipunan security tightens, hold-ups lessen by 85%
by Acor Arceo
QUEZON CITY, Philippines – Katipunan Avenue is now safer for students, said Loyola Heights Barangay Public Security Officer Napoleon Casipe.
Casipe said that with the implementation of tightened security and foot patrols when classes started last June, hold-ups lessened by 85%.
“Before, students were really victimized frequently,” he said in Filipino in an interview. “Now, hold-up cases and snatching incidents have considerably lessened.”
Katipunan Avenue is home to several schools, including the Ateneo de Manila University, Miriam College, and Kostka School.
Before, men riding motorcycles and cars without plate numbers often victimized students walking along Katipunan. Casipe said that these suspects often escaped before victims could report to the authorities.
But now, Casipe said that armed Barangay Security and Development Office (BSDO) personnel have been stationed at the Katipunan footbridges. A policeman from PNP Station 9 in Anonas also patrols the area.
Ateneo student and Katipunan dormer Gino Trinidad said that he feels safer knowing that security personnel are active.
“That’s good, especially at nighttime, since it’s really scary to walk along Katipunan when it’s dark,” he said in Filipino.
Meanwhile, Ateneo Security Detachment Commander Avelino Guzilan said that the Ateneo appreciates the efforts of the BSDO and PNP Station 9 in securing the area.
“That’s a good move by the BSDO. Criminals are now afraid to strike in Katipunan,” he said in a mix of English and Filipino. “Students are much safer now.”
Casipe said that with the implementation of tightened security and foot patrols when classes started last June, hold-ups lessened by 85%.
“Before, students were really victimized frequently,” he said in Filipino in an interview. “Now, hold-up cases and snatching incidents have considerably lessened.”
Katipunan Avenue is home to several schools, including the Ateneo de Manila University, Miriam College, and Kostka School.
Before, men riding motorcycles and cars without plate numbers often victimized students walking along Katipunan. Casipe said that these suspects often escaped before victims could report to the authorities.
But now, Casipe said that armed Barangay Security and Development Office (BSDO) personnel have been stationed at the Katipunan footbridges. A policeman from PNP Station 9 in Anonas also patrols the area.
Ateneo student and Katipunan dormer Gino Trinidad said that he feels safer knowing that security personnel are active.
“That’s good, especially at nighttime, since it’s really scary to walk along Katipunan when it’s dark,” he said in Filipino.
Meanwhile, Ateneo Security Detachment Commander Avelino Guzilan said that the Ateneo appreciates the efforts of the BSDO and PNP Station 9 in securing the area.
“That’s a good move by the BSDO. Criminals are now afraid to strike in Katipunan,” he said in a mix of English and Filipino. “Students are much safer now.”
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Electronics paradise
by Allan Lazaro
QUEZON CITY, Philippines - The
As the electronics hub of Quiapo, the
I was looking to replace my broken tape recorder when I went there last weekend. My friend Ryan Chua has been there several times already so he was my guide that day. As we entered the building, it was easy to see that the place was a Wowowee stampede waiting to happen. Raon was cramped with throngs of people moving about, trying to find the best bargain amid the chaos.
Speakers and amplifiers were stacked up on one another beside one wall while stereo systems, television sets, mp3 players, video game consoles, and DVD players crowded the shops. Wooden or cardboard stands of pirated DVD’s and video games littered the narrow corridors. Customers went in and out of the various stores. No tape recorders were on display.
Ryan and I jostled our way through the crowd inside Raon, all the while trying to find a shop that could possibly be selling tape recorders. After a while, I followed Ryan inside a store selling telecommunication gadgets. We asked the sales lady if they had tape recorders but unfortunately they were out of stock.
We entered the next store which primarily sold DVD players and radios. At last, there were models of tape recorders on display in the glass stand inside. I immediately asked the lady behind the counter which model was the cheapest. She picked one box and took out a peach-colored tape recorder which looked very much like a baby’s toy.
As she proudly showed us the features of the gadget, I noticed to my horror that Diether Ocampo’ face was plastered on the sticker. Even if it only cost Php800, there was no way I would buy that model.
Disappointment all over my face, I asked the sales lady for their Sony models. She showed us the cheapest one which cost P1,200. To my surprise, it was a Sony TCM-150 which another friend of mine owned. I believe he bought his for P3,000 at SM. Since the TCM-150 looked genuine enough and included the how-to-use manual and all, I decided to buy it. A one week warranty was not bad, I thought, considering I bought it at Raon
We got out of the store into the milling mass of people in the corridors. For some reason, the cramped interior of the store was cooler than the outside even if there wasn’t any ventilation.
We exited toward
On the street itself, vendors displayed their wares – clothes, accessories, microphones, antennas, and other electronic gadgets. Pirated CD’s and DVD’s were everywhere. I wondered if Raon’s management had a policy against porn movies because at that point, I realized that Raon only had local and Hollywood movies plus some anime titles. All the porn – straight, gay, lesbian, children, bestiality, Asian – were sold outside on the street. It was quite disturbing to see a father shopping for porn with his little daughter beside him tugging at his shirt.
Not far ahead, we could hear a vendor’s amplified voice marketing his product. The seller was wearing an improvised microphone, which had lots of electric tape, on his head. The man was selling what he called the “Master Cutter,” a pen-shaped glass and tile cutter for only P200. He was actually very good at what he was doing and his gadget seemed effective. Unfortunately, I didn’t see myself having the need to cut tiles anytime soon.
It was almost 3pm and Ryan and I were hungry from all the walking. As we neared the corner of
There were many food vendors on the intersection of
With only P50 left in my wallet and my feet sore from walking all afternoon, I felt that it was time to go back home. Ryan said that there was a shortcut near
After a while, we finally found the busy intersection of
As we were about to enter Recto Station at around 430pm, Ryan went back and walked toward a man giving out flyers in front of Isetann. “Gusto mo punta muna tayo? (Do you want to go here first?)” he said while waving the flyer in front of me.
The flyer was for Snow White KTV Bar along
By: Erika Tapalla
QUEZON CITY, Philippines---With his deep blue eyes, dirty blonde ‘do, and toned physique, Kirk Long can easily make girls swoon. But he’s not just a pretty boy. He’s Ateneo de Manila University’s basketball recruit on full scholarship, anxious to spread his wings as a Blue Eagle in Season 70 of the University Athletics Association of the Philippines (UAAP).
Once the word was deemed official, Long was hyped up, leaving university students at the edge of their seats for a chance to see this guy in action.
Now that UAAP basketball season has commenced, Long was barely seen where he was expected to be – on court. “Coach just wants to wait and doesn’t want to put me in that position where I’m gonna fail and be discouraged. I still have a long way to go, have a lot to learn, so I’ll wait for my time to come,” he says.
Since as far as Long remembers, he has always loved basketball. As a child he frequently played with toy basketballs and mini-hoops given to him by his father. Growing up in the Philippines where basketball is the favorite pastime and most popular sport further ingrained the sport in his life.
Although it is apparent that basketball is very important to Long, there’s more to him than his long strides, fast hands, and high jumps. “I’m learning to be a well-rounded person, focus on my studies and have some quiet spiritual time cause putting all your trust and hope in basketball is not enough.”
Kirk Long
Transferring from Kansas, USA to the Philippines at two and a half years, his parents first came to the country as missionaries to spread the Gospel and Jesus Christ as the personal savior. Long’s family has established a home for street kids at Valley Golf, Antipolo. “I try to have a good testimony with God, ask for forgiveness for all my sins, and keep good relationships with people around me both on and off-court,” says Long.
He has formed strong relationships and highly values friendship. “I guess I’m an emotional guy,” he says somewhat bashfully, “When things don’t go right, when my friends leave, it tends to carry over to other things and I have to learn how to control my emotions so I can focus.” With a boyish smile, Long states he is still in the process of managing the division of his time to balance everything. “It’s always fun to go out with friends and hang out, but I have to make sure I use my time wisely.”
Rising popularity and amazing skills aside, he’s still an ordinary guy anyone can easily talk to whether it be about his nonexistent love life or basketball.
QUEZON CITY, Philippines---With his deep blue eyes, dirty blonde ‘do, and toned physique, Kirk Long can easily make girls swoon. But he’s not just a pretty boy. He’s Ateneo de Manila University’s basketball recruit on full scholarship, anxious to spread his wings as a Blue Eagle in Season 70 of the University Athletics Association of the Philippines (UAAP).
Once the word was deemed official, Long was hyped up, leaving university students at the edge of their seats for a chance to see this guy in action.
Now that UAAP basketball season has commenced, Long was barely seen where he was expected to be – on court. “Coach just wants to wait and doesn’t want to put me in that position where I’m gonna fail and be discouraged. I still have a long way to go, have a lot to learn, so I’ll wait for my time to come,” he says.
Since as far as Long remembers, he has always loved basketball. As a child he frequently played with toy basketballs and mini-hoops given to him by his father. Growing up in the Philippines where basketball is the favorite pastime and most popular sport further ingrained the sport in his life.
Although it is apparent that basketball is very important to Long, there’s more to him than his long strides, fast hands, and high jumps. “I’m learning to be a well-rounded person, focus on my studies and have some quiet spiritual time cause putting all your trust and hope in basketball is not enough.”
Kirk LongTransferring from Kansas, USA to the Philippines at two and a half years, his parents first came to the country as missionaries to spread the Gospel and Jesus Christ as the personal savior. Long’s family has established a home for street kids at Valley Golf, Antipolo. “I try to have a good testimony with God, ask for forgiveness for all my sins, and keep good relationships with people around me both on and off-court,” says Long.
He has formed strong relationships and highly values friendship. “I guess I’m an emotional guy,” he says somewhat bashfully, “When things don’t go right, when my friends leave, it tends to carry over to other things and I have to learn how to control my emotions so I can focus.” With a boyish smile, Long states he is still in the process of managing the division of his time to balance everything. “It’s always fun to go out with friends and hang out, but I have to make sure I use my time wisely.”
Rising popularity and amazing skills aside, he’s still an ordinary guy anyone can easily talk to whether it be about his nonexistent love life or basketball.
PHOTOS BY Erika Tapalla
VIDEO BY Erika Tapalla, edited by Ayo Supangco
VIDEO BY Erika Tapalla, edited by Ayo Supangco
Monday, July 16, 2007
The art of Khanser
by Reddie Chua
QUEZON CITY, Philippines—Once during her childhood, Marites Khanser went to their town’s library and heard shocking news. The librarian said that there were no more books available for her, as she had just finished reading their entire collection for children. Young Khanser had to start reading books for adults from then on.
That was long ago she became Dr. Marites Khanser, a doctor of business administration who wants to learn and learn more. And yet her hunger for learning remains with her today—this time in the arts.
An expert in a field of numbers and logic, she used to teach leadership and strategy at the Ateneo de Manila University’s John Gokongwei School of Management, joining a pool of accountants, mathematicians, and managers in the faculty. Who would have thought, then, that she is also a skilled painter?
“I’m really multi-skilled. I can do a lot of things,” she says.
Painting from inspiration
Painting is a skill she has just learned. “I am a late bloomer when it comes to painting and in fact, I never thought I could paint,” she writes in her book Reflections on My Paintings: An Artist’s Memoir.
Khanser used to manage an art gallery in Davao City that featured works of other artists, but she never thought that she would make her own paintings someday.
About two years ago, she trained under the geniuses of the Manila Art Den and mastered the skill within months. For someone who was already more than 40 then, there is indeed reason to believe that it is never too late to learn.
This is because she had an inspiration, a strong force that motivated her to acquire the new skill: University President Fr. Bienvenido Nebres, SJ, her mentor.
“I wanted to paint the portrait of Fr. Ben,” she says, “that’s why I discovered my gift."
Khanser was Nebres’s scholar for 15 years. The priest encouraged her to pursue a doctor of business administration (DBA) degree and supported her studies. When she finished, she put up a DBA program at the Ateneo de Davao University and headed it.
Her first creation was a portrait of Nebres. She considers it one of her best, and later gave it to the priest as a gift.
Painting portraits of people is her favorite. She admits, though, that it usually takes a long time for her to finish a portrait because it is hard to capture the essence of a person.
She also loves to paint places she has visited, like a river in Thailand. “When I go abroad, I take pictures and I paint right away,” she says.
Insatiable
Even as a child, Khanser, already had an insatiable desire to learn.
Though from a poor family, she consistently did well in school. She studied for free throughout her student life.
A summa cum laude graduate of the Jesuit-run Xavier University in 1979, she always wanted to excel. “I would cry if I didn’t get an A,” she says.
She finished an MBA degree at Xavier and an MA in English at the University of the Philippines-Diliman. She then earned her doctorate from De La Salle University-Manila.
Although she seems to have achieved so much, she still wants to do more. Painting is not the end of her skill-searching, she says.
“I really explore my limits. I don’t hold barriers to myself,” she says.
There is only one thing, though, that she would really love to do for the rest of her life: to travel. Besides this, she promises not to stop developing new skills.
We might see her singing her lungs out, playing an instrument, or dancing in the ballroom someday. She believes that there is no end to whatever she might want to learn in the years to come.
This hunger for learning made her finish reading an entire library many years ago. But until now, Khanser is still hungry, and she keeps getting hungrier.
That was long ago she became Dr. Marites Khanser, a doctor of business administration who wants to learn and learn more. And yet her hunger for learning remains with her today—this time in the arts.
An expert in a field of numbers and logic, she used to teach leadership and strategy at the Ateneo de Manila University’s John Gokongwei School of Management, joining a pool of accountants, mathematicians, and managers in the faculty. Who would have thought, then, that she is also a skilled painter?
“I’m really multi-skilled. I can do a lot of things,” she says.
Painting from inspiration
Painting is a skill she has just learned. “I am a late bloomer when it comes to painting and in fact, I never thought I could paint,” she writes in her book Reflections on My Paintings: An Artist’s Memoir.
Khanser used to manage an art gallery in Davao City that featured works of other artists, but she never thought that she would make her own paintings someday.
About two years ago, she trained under the geniuses of the Manila Art Den and mastered the skill within months. For someone who was already more than 40 then, there is indeed reason to believe that it is never too late to learn.
This is because she had an inspiration, a strong force that motivated her to acquire the new skill: University President Fr. Bienvenido Nebres, SJ, her mentor.
“I wanted to paint the portrait of Fr. Ben,” she says, “that’s why I discovered my gift."
Khanser was Nebres’s scholar for 15 years. The priest encouraged her to pursue a doctor of business administration (DBA) degree and supported her studies. When she finished, she put up a DBA program at the Ateneo de Davao University and headed it.
Her first creation was a portrait of Nebres. She considers it one of her best, and later gave it to the priest as a gift.
Painting portraits of people is her favorite. She admits, though, that it usually takes a long time for her to finish a portrait because it is hard to capture the essence of a person.
She also loves to paint places she has visited, like a river in Thailand. “When I go abroad, I take pictures and I paint right away,” she says.
Insatiable
Even as a child, Khanser, already had an insatiable desire to learn.
Though from a poor family, she consistently did well in school. She studied for free throughout her student life.
A summa cum laude graduate of the Jesuit-run Xavier University in 1979, she always wanted to excel. “I would cry if I didn’t get an A,” she says.
She finished an MBA degree at Xavier and an MA in English at the University of the Philippines-Diliman. She then earned her doctorate from De La Salle University-Manila.
Although she seems to have achieved so much, she still wants to do more. Painting is not the end of her skill-searching, she says.
“I really explore my limits. I don’t hold barriers to myself,” she says.
There is only one thing, though, that she would really love to do for the rest of her life: to travel. Besides this, she promises not to stop developing new skills.
We might see her singing her lungs out, playing an instrument, or dancing in the ballroom someday. She believes that there is no end to whatever she might want to learn in the years to come.
This hunger for learning made her finish reading an entire library many years ago. But until now, Khanser is still hungry, and she keeps getting hungrier.
PHOTO TAKEN FROM http://community.webshots.com/
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