GROUNDED BY VALUES DRIVEN BY PURPOSE
Student Governance should be all about being grounded on our common values, being driven to empower, being collaborative and being catalysts for development in society. We recognize the value of diversity as an opportunity to develop skills and to direct independent actions by harnessing and channeling our purpose as Lasallians towards a better nation. It is through a sustained studentcentered University that we can achieve a purpose driven Lasallian community.
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After all that has happened during last academic year’s failure of elections, why should the students still vote?
community and dedicated to progress; and a leadership that will work together with the Lasallian community in sharing a common goal to shape a bold and progressive future for our university.
Serving in the National Philippine Government and in the University Student Government, I have learned time and time again how to appreciate representation, how to better represent, and the importance to be represented. We are at the brink of entering an exciting new era filled with possibilities that give us the opportunity to have more power to create the kind of future we want than ever before. With this, students deserve a government that would identify and remove restraints on students’ full participation, so that individuals may explore their capabilities and interests and may develop their full intellectual and human potential. Every student has a right to have an efficient and stable government that will represent their rights and deliver them with the proper services and opportunities needed for them to maximize their stay in DLSU.
Why are you fighting for student representation?
learning environments wherein proper student representation is maximized at all levels, basic student services and processes are effective and efficient, and opportunities are relevant while having an accessible and secure Lasallian education. Participation encourages students to believe that they have some control over a system that will affect them.
Everyday, I ask myself: What am I doing with what I have been given?
What is your ideal student experience?
Entering this election, I have asked myself the same thing.
My ideal student experience is having the opportunities to improve my leadership and interpersonal skills while also increasing my self-confidence. It is recognizing that I am a part of a bigger scheme of things and should be involved in issues that would allow me to link academic knowledge with practical experience, thereby leading to a better understanding of my own abilities, talents, and career goals. I have always given much importance to my experiences because it reminds me of my strengths and my capabilities as an individual. This is what every Lasallian should experience. The education provided by De La Salle University should liberate students to explore, to create, to challenge, and to lead.
Participating during elections is a duty entrusted to us, not to merely vote for whom we like, but for whom we believe can lead our university to a better place. Voting implies having the ability to determine the form of leadership and governance they want for themselves and for others. Lasallians need a guarantee that their leaders will be a constant “glue” in the community, and this boils down to a legacy of credibility and strong principles and values; not just rhetoric. Lasallians deserve leaders whose decisions are made from Integrity, honesty, and experience; Leaders who are committed to
USG PRESIDENT I am blessed enough to receive Lasallian education. It is because of the Lasallian education that I have the experiences that shaped by identity, the freedom to pursue endless opportunities and create positive influence, and most of all; I am able to serve and work with students filled with potential, talents, ideas, creativity and influence. But then I asked myself. What now? What is the point of all this? As your University Student Government President, I commit to proper student representation. But again, with the roles and responsibilities given, the resources available and the mindset I have, what is the purpose? I envision a USG that provides
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What is your most memorable moment in DLSU? My most memorable experience in DLSU would be LPEP. Like any other freshman, LPEP was the first day I knew I had the opportunity to take control over how I would spend the next 4 years of my stay in DLSU. Before entering college, I was the kind of person who would usually have a hard time being comfortable around other people. I was not
exactly the type of person most of my friends would consider a leader. But I knew that when DLSU sent me my acceptance letter that stated “Your future begins here”, I knew that I couldn’t let the next years of my life pass without showing others what I can do and what I have yet to offer. Since my first day as a Lasallian, I opened my mind and heart to receive the Lasallian values and become the Lasallian leader for God and Country our founder wanted us all to be. I know it may sound scary. But if there is anything I have learned, it is that the fear of not being equipped should not hinder us from being great. Who are we not to be bold? We must find our purpose and have the courage to live it so that in this lifetime we are able to do what we were made to do. Why do you wake up every morning? I once read a book that taught me the big truth of life: It’s not like the movies. This truth is not meant to be taken negatively; rather it reminds us that we have to stop watching life like a movie reel playing in an endless cycle of love and loss. We have to cut that movie reel into pieces and view life like that: In bits and pieces of memories that by themselves seem insignificant, but are actually the really big, important memories we should be holding on to. It is these memories that remind us that life has provided us with numerous opportunities to experience its wonders. We are not alone in this journey of self-discovery. At the end of the day, when we are left thinking about our identity and influence, we realize that it’s not about us. It is about making the world a better place.
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Being a Legislative Assembly Representative your whole stay in the USG, how big of a transition do you think you will encounter from the Legislative Branch to the executive? In all honesty, the position entails a very big transition from being a Legislative Assembly Representative, but only in its operations. In terms of the ideas that can be implemented, I believe that the position of Vice President for Internal Affairs complements the ideas that I currently have in improving the university. This is the reason why although there are so many adjustments that I have to adopt, I am extremely excited to serve the students and grow throughout this process. What can you offer the students as Vice President for Internal Affairs? Being exposed in the Legislative Assembly, the Executive Board Offices, interactions with the administrative offices, and conversations with my fellow Lasallians give me a different perspective into being the Vice President for Internal Affairs of the University Student Government. This perspective will be my guide in innovating student services, extending administrative linkages, creating a collaborative USG culture, and maximizing core competencies in the service of the students of De
La Salle University. Through this, the University Student Government will be able to improve student life and highlight all student sectors in the most efficient way possible. Most students are aware that the UnivWeek is the only project done by OVPIA, but what are the other responsibilities of your office? In truth, the Office of the Vice President for Internal Affairs is
VICE PRESIDENT FOR INTERNAL AFFAIRS responsible for so much more than the Univweek because of the representative seats it holds across administrative offices as well as its obligation to innovate and improve facilities and student services around campus. Examples of such innovations include FIX, Pahiram Libro, and Pahiram Payong. However, I honestly believe it is timely that the Vice President for Internal Affairs should also focus on improving its linkages with the administration to involve the
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students on what current campus developments may be undergoing as well as integrate the stands of these students in these developments. What inspires you to serve your fellow Lasallians? Simply put, I can see the potential of the Lasallian. Coming from the School of Economics and even upon interacting with numerous students in the university, I've seen how much effort students put in improving themselves, and even for the purpose of making a difference in society. I may not be the smartest, most charismatic, or the most competent individual in my field, but I believe that making my fellow Lasallians get there through these kinds of service is where I should be. If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why? If I can be anywhere in the world, I would choose to be wherever I currently am. With the circumstances I am currently facing, I want to continue facing every single opportunity in front of me because I see the value of the growth that I can possibly gain and impart from these as of the moment. I would not want to risk not doing what I can do right now by being anywhere else in the world.
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How will your office give opportunities to Lasallians? I want to be able to provide opportunities that are relevant and accessible to the Lasallian community through researchbased initiatives that would best fit the students’ developmental needs. These opportunities will be accessible through an external opportunities newsletter. Not only do I want to make every student aware of the different opportunities that our university has to offer us, but as well as for them to grab these opportunities that will enable them to maximize their full potentials. As a Lasallian, I was exposed to different opportunities that I never thought I would experience. The same opportunities helped in shaping who I am today. In turn, I want to give my fellow Lasallians the same or even better external opportunities for them to realize and actualize their purpose. Aside from giving relevant and accessible opportunities, the best contribution that I can leave would be a breed of Lasallian Go-Getters who never pass up the opportunity for personal growth and development that will, in the future, create a positive change in society. As Vice President for External Affairs, do you think that DLSU should require their students to immerse themselves in different cultures through exchange programs or seminars outside of the Philippines? Exchange programs and seminars outside of the Philippines are great avenues for us to be exposed to different cultures. These opportunities will also give us the
chance to build ties and widen our connections, most especially that we live in a globalized world. Dreams of landing internships and job opportunities abroad will become a reality. My fellow Lasallians are actively looking and willing to participate in these opportunities without being mandated by the University. As Vice President for External Affairs, I will provide accessible exchange programs and seminars outside our country that will cater to the need and interest of the Lasallian community.
around 3 thrusts, which are poverty alleviation, opportunities for all, and electoral reform. The thrust nearest to my heart is providing opportunities for all, especially the children. Her passion to give avenues for the youth to develop inspires me because I believe that the youth holds the future of our country. If the youth are educated and given the right opportunities to be able to grow and develop as individuals, our country won’t have a problem in the future. Poe’s humble approach and maternal image will help her lead our country towards development and economic stability. What song would describe your life?
VICE PRESIDENT FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS Who will you vote for during the 2016 National Elections? With the upcoming 2016 National Elections, there are a lot of names that are making noise and who are eyeing the position of the president. President Jejomar Binay, Grace Poe, and Mar Roxas are some of the front-runners for the presidency. If I were to choose someone from the three candidates I would vote Grace Poe. A lot of people may not agree with her recent actions but I believe that her intentions of running for president are genuine. Although personality and popularity are one of the biggest factors in Philippine politics, I still would rather cast my vote based on the platforms of every candidate. Poe’s platform revolves
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The song that would best describe my life would be ‘I Believe’ by Fantasia Barrino. The song talks about believing in oneself to be able to achieve one’s dream. Growing up, I had a lot of dreams for myself. I wanted to be part of the drama club, the volleyball team, different school organizations, and the student government. I achieved all these things because I pushed myself hard enough to believe that I could do what I have always dreamt of doing. Being active in extra-curricular activities was my way to distract myself from the different problems I had with my family. However, these problems never really stopped me from achieving what I wanted accomplish. ‘I Believe’ is a song that reminds me to never stop believing in myself. When I thought of giving up and quitting, the song inspired me to work harder for what I want, and I made sure that problems would not stand in my way. Now, I am after a bigger dream, yet it is still one of the songs that I would listen to for me to never stopped believing in myself. Now, I can say that these dreams of mine are slowly turning in to a reality and I have arrived.
If you were stuck in an island, what 3 things would you bring? The things the first popped up in my mind was to bring my rabbit, Bubbles, but I realized she’s not a thing. I would probably bring a copy of my favorite book, The Best of Me, to keep me occupied when I am bored and would want to remind myself of how it feels to love unconditionally. I would also bring a picture of my parents. I am an only child and ever since, my parents never made me feel that I was alone and lonely. I am truly thankful for the unconditional love they shower me with. Without them, I wouldn’t have had and achieved the things that I have accomplished now. This picture will constantly remind me of their love and selflessness. The last thing that I would bring with me is my six-decade Lasallian Rosary. All my life I was a Lasallian and I truly thank this great institution for shaping me in to the person that I am today. In all things that I do, I make it to a point that I ask for His guidance and thank him for all the blessings that He has been giving me. I believe that no matter what experiences I may face in the island, as long as I have a strong faith in Him, nothing can faze me.
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What have you gained from being part of the USG? I was first part of my Batch Government Unit when I was still a freshman in the College of Science until I was able to serve in my Batch Government Unit in the College of Education. Being part of these government units have made me very thankful for the different opportunities that it gave me. One important thing I learned is that when someone is driven by passion, that person can move mountains. I’ve worked with numerous people in the USG and I am so grateful for having met such amazing and inspiring people. The passion I saw in other officers also motivated me that I can let go of some fears in order to gain new knowledge. The USG taught me to step out of my comfort zone and to grab opportunities because this leads to growth whether it works out or not. It is also in the USG that I felt that people go through the most tedious processes and challenges just for their constituents and even if their work goes unaccredited, the mere fact that what they did something to make someone’s life easier or happier makes all those trials and tribulations worth it. As the Executive Secretary, what are ways to make sure that all students will be aware of the different happenings in and around DLSU? As the Executive Secretary, I will make sure that the students will be aware of the different events that are taking place in and around DLSU by means of refined communication through active student participation. By mobilizing the different secretaries per batch and unit and
meeting with them through the Secretariat Convention, I will make sure that these secretaries will be accountable for the dissemination of information to their respective constituents. This will mean that each and every student in la sale will be accounted for and they will know directly what are the things that are happening in and around DLSU, and that they are also free to raise up any concerns that can be addressed immediately.
EXECUTIVE SECRETARY What do you think is the biggest issue in DLSU right now and how can we go about it? I believe that the biggest issue in DLSU right now is that not all the students recognize the importance of the University Student Government. The Student Government is indeed important and they need to realize that they are a huge part of it. In order to fix this problem, I believe we should reach out to the students and get them more involved and exposed to the different opportunities and services the USG has to offer. But before that, it is important to educate the students about the USG by reaching out to them on a more personal level. These can be attained through all my projects that I will implement once in office. Also, by pushing for University Student Government geared towards
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transparency, students will be more aware of the actions and services that their officers are taking and providing for them. Shaping purpose driven student government officers will ensure that they know their respective roles and responsibilities to allow them to maximize their positions. What values do you uphold the most? The values that I uphold the most are Faith, Integrity, and Authenticity. First and foremost, Faith because I trust in teachings of the Catholic Church that by following this, I can fully live a life He has planned for me. Having faith is what helps me get through difficult times. Integrity is something I uphold to be able to fully live out the things I believe in. I try to do what is deemed right and stand by my actions and decisions, no matter what. Authenticity is a value I like to uphold because I know I should always stay true to who I really am. In a world of great diversity and conflicting views, being genuine does not only show my commitment to being consistent, but it also allows my personal growth. Why do you want to be a teacher? The passion to pursue my career in education started when I had my first NSTP outreach and we had to teach the kids in the community how to spell simple words. I knew right then and there that instead of focusing my studies to pursue biochemistry, I would dedicate it to learning how to be an effective teacher. It was at those teaching sessions with the kids that I loved it when you’re exhausting all your energy towards helping a child learn something new. Imparting knowledge to children may be tiresome, but I am patient enough to put up with them because
education is really important in child rearing. I have experienced teaching kids at a school and they ask me the silliest question but being part of the developmental years is crucial in the foundation of their character. This is what pushes me to study hard to make sure I am well equipped to provide them with the best. It is also in being with children that I feel like I am learning more than teaching.
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Why are you fighting for Lasallian Scholarships? One of the reasons why I am running as Executive Treasurer is my experience in being the Chairperson for the Lasallian Scholar Program. My team and I were able to provide grants to financially incapable but deserving Lasallians, and the sense of fulfillment I got from that experience can not be matched by anything. Just a back story, I have been a Financial Scholar all my stay here in DLSU, and I am not ashamed to say that without my scholarship, I will not be even studying in DLSU right now because I used this constraint as my inspiration to keep pushing and excel in everything I do. Moreover, I personally know how hard it is to study in our university, the financial stress we give to our parents, and the pressure it leaves us is no doubt something to alleviate. This is the main reason why I am fighting for Lasallian Scholarships. I would not want anybody to experience the same feeling I had before I got my grant. The ironic fear of not having a college despite a student’s desire to finish college education is my motivation to fight for accessible and maximized Lasallian education. Being a Lasallian your whole life, what makes a Lasallian special? I have been a Lasallian for 15 years. I learned to embody the values that this great institution has taught me. These values shaped and honed me to be the student leader I am today. Faith, Service and Communion have always been the values that we, Lasallians, should personify. All our actions and decisions should be led by these values. However, one thing that I can never forget is that we become Lasallian Achievers for God and Country – Lasallians
who can influence others to be better individuals for the benefit of our society. We tend to always put Him first in everything that we do, meaning we wholeheartedly know that it is still His will being done. Moreover, we also try to create avenues, which would have a positive impact to society. Having said this, the instilled mentality and values are what makes a Lasallian special.
our student rights; however, I do not want to devalue the quality of education in my university, nor do I want to hamper our professors. This does not mean that I will not fight for a 0% tuition fee increase. All I am saying is that I do not want to promise something I am not sure I can provide. If deemed possible, we will lobby for that 0% we are yearning for. But let me assure you, that what I am promising a student driven tuition fee increase as your Executive Treasurer. What is your favorite quote and why?
EXECUTIVE TREASURER How can we achieve the “lowest tuition fee increase?” First of all, I just want to say that every executive treasurer will always fight for the lowest tuition fee increase. Wala kang mahahanap na treasurer na hindi ito pinaglalaban. However, one thing that I can promise is that I will ensure proper student representation. I want the students to be part of the tuition fee increase dialogues throughout the academic year. ‘Yung tipong masasabi nila na “Ay, kasama ako dyan kaya ito ang masasabi ko”. Moreover, I also believe that we can achieve the lowest tuition fee increase when every sector of DLSU, including the students, parents, faculty, staff and campus development team are part of the tuition fee increase discussions. Do not get me wrong, I will always stand for and by the students, and I will fight with them to uphold
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“My loyalty to my party ends where my loyalty to my country begin” -Running under a political party has never entered my mind. I have never been the type to run since I have always seen it as a popularity contest. Considering the dirt in politics including the issue on partisanship I have always been closed to running. However, one reason why I said yes was due to the fact that this is what I see myself doing, and this is what I love to do. This quote embodies my stand on partisanship. I end my ties with Santugon once my loyalty to the student begins. Entering into a political party, it is hard to remove the issue of partisanship but it is indeed possible. I will never become a partisan. Santugon chose me because they saw my potential, and because they believed in what I am capable of doing. What is your Christmas wish this year? I have many dreams and aspirations. One of the things I wish for this Christmas is a Derecho. I want the student body to finally experience a full on Santugon Leadership in DLSU, where in every leader has the potential and is maximizing every mean to serve the Lasallian
Community. Second, I want money. This will not be for myself but instead it will go to my “Future Children Fund�, which I have already established in the past for my future children. I rarely buy new things for myself because as I previously mentioned, I have always experienced financial distress, which I hope my future kids will never feel. Lastly, gustong gusto kong magbigay ng pag-ibig dahil kailanman hindi naging mali ang magmahal.
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GOKONGWEI COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING During his freshman year, Karl was known as the smart Chinese Industrial Engineering guy, since he was one of the few engineering students awarded to be a Gokongwei Scholar. Later on in that year, he became active in different USG organizations where he headed numerous projects for the college. Now, as an incoming 3rd year student and the incumbent batch vice president, people see Karl not only as the smart guy but also the active USG leader that his fellow engineering students can rely on. You often see Karl at eng walk promoting a project or running around from building to building to process paper works. But more than just being the busy USG guy, Karl is an approachable person who really cares about the well being of the students. Karl has said that he really wanted to meet a lot of SPECIAL ELECTIONS ISSUE 14
people because he wanted to be more involved so that he could help them out more. He is so passionate about being of service to the college that he would put the needs of the students before himself. When Karl puts his mind onto something, he will give 110% of his dedication and effort to it. Karl believes that every engineering student has the potential to be someone great. These students are the ones who have inspired him to once again for serve the college for another year. Taking the opportunity to run as College President was about giving back to the college by giving them the kind of leadership that recognizes the capabilities of each Lasallian Engineer. At the end of the day, he wants to show each engineering student that they can be the best versions of themselves.
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RVR COLLEGE OF BUSINESS Sometimes the biggest gifts come in the smallest packages, and more often than not the greatest leaders are those who think of everyone else before themselves. One of the only people who would spend the entire day helping a stranger study for a test or adjust their schedule is Sarah Phoebe Lim. She has never sought the spotlight for herself but rather be there to help others to shine their brightest. It has been a thrust upon her at such a young age. When we ask her why she doesn’t mind “working backstage,” she would always tell us “Every time I see people who I know could do more and give more, but just aren’t empowered enough or not presented with the right opportunities, nanghihinayang ako. Nanghihinayang ako kasi I know
how great they can become.” Becoming such an active presence in her college through BLAZE2016 and BCG, Sarah excelled under pressure. No matter how great or challenging the task is she still made sure to give her best and produce results that would always be worth all the hard work in the end. She displayed genuine passion for service and exemplary leadership that far exceeded anyone's expectations, all while never losing that happy little, Chinese girl who just wants to help others do their best. As she brings our college to the next level, trust Sarah Phoebe Lim to take you with her for a better and brighter Ramon V. del Rosario – College of Business.
COLLEGE OF LIBERAL ARTS Everyone who knows Matthew Yabut knows that Matthew is called “Yabut.” Simula ng magkamalay yata siya student leader na ‘yan. Wala nang ginawa kung hindi tumakbo, mangapanya at gumawa ng mga programa para sa student body. Pero kahit ano pa mang taas ni Yabut (literally and figuratively), hindi yan marunong makalimot. Siya pa rin si Yabs na mabilis magsalita, corny mag-joke, magulo ang buhok pero magaling makisama. The thing about Yabut is that he is special. Unconsciously, he knew his purpose from the moment he said yes to the call to serve. He started his leadership journey as Grade School and High School Student Council President in LSGH, entered college as an LA Representative and at present, a Batch President. Every year, he is being called to serve. And without any hesitations, he SPECIAL ELECTIONS ISSUE 15
says yes - yes to you. Why is saying yes to him worth it? Because with Yabut, a leader that has proven his capabilities and a leader who values fellowship, CLA is ensured that they have a College President that will guide them to be purpose-driven in order for them to be catalysts of positive change in the society. Together with him and your batch level officers, you will be able to find your drive and your purpose. Wouldn’t that make you want to say yes? Matthew Yabut knows his purpose - to be of service to his fellow CLA students. Let him join you as you search for your purpose. Iba kasi makisama ang lider na may pagmamahal sa trabaho at may pagpapahalaga sa mga taong nakapalibot sa kanya. Katulad nga ng sabi niya sa twitter bio niya, “It's the heart that really matters in the end.”
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e t o v y h W ? o h c e r e D We encourage you to vote DERECHO because the plans outlined here were envisioned not only by individuals, but by a team of Santugon leaders. With all Santugon officers elected into position, their vision and projects for you will be most effectively fulfilled. Weeks of intensive training have formed truly inseparable bonds among the Santugon leaders in this SPECIAL Elections; but more importantly, they have developed strong work habits together that will carry on throughout the year. TOGETHER, they are ready to serve YOU; all that remains is for you to make that one DERECHO vote.
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ASEAN YOUTH SUMMIT An international conference for student leaders from ASEAN universities to discuss the implications of the ASEAN Integration Initiative that aims to boost partnerships between DLSU and ASEAN countries
DLSU STREET LIGHTING PETITION INITIATIVE A petition to the Manila City Government that gathered over 1000 signatures to improve the lighting facilities around Taft Avenue
PHILIPPINE MODEL CONGRESS - DLSU Provides students with the opportunity to engage in mature discussions on numerous issues currently affecting the country and to listen to various notable speakers from various sectors
JAIME HILARIO INITIATIVE A termly initiative for Jaime Hilario Integrated School in Bagac, Bataan which catered to the children’s needs in their education
ESTABLISHED A 3-YEAR PARTNERSHIP WITH THE NATIONAL YOUTH COMMISSION Established a 3-Year Partnership with the National Youth Commission to increase opportunities for career and international programs as well as engaging in socio civic activities while raising awareness on national concerns.
12-HOUR FAMINE The 12-hour Famine raises awareness about poverty and hunger and raises funds to help those suffering from malnutrition.
LIB & LEARN CAMPAIGN An awareness campaign for the University Library to be implemented in the libraries of DLSU-Manila, DLSU-STC, and the upcoming College of Law in Bonifacio Global City
SOCIAL MEDIA MANUAL REVAMP A manual for proper guidelines regarding the processes and policies for proper information dissemination online
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LASALLIAN EXCHANGE SCHOLARSHIP GRANT A tie-up project between OVPEA and OTREAS that allowed students to participate in foreign exchange programs
DLSU PRIDE WEEK A week-long program that recognizes and promotes the LGBT community
COMET E-JEEP IN DLSU A 3-day awareness campaign in partnership with COMET E-Jeep that enabled the students to ride the COMET E-Jeep from South Gate to Br. Andrew Gonzales hall and back
REVISED UNIVERSITY GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE Grievance processes to be revised to include neutral mediation, per-incident complaints, and the creation of a standing university judicial board
iREHISTRO: VOTER'S REGISTRATION Provided students an avenue to register for the upcoming 2016 National Elections
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