GENUINE LBE: CHOPPED LADDERS, CLOSED DOORS

BY ALEXA FRANCO, RUPERT LIAM LADAGA, & DHAYSHEL TINOY | ILLUSTRATION BY RHEI GIAN HERNANDEZ

RECEIVING an education is the best thing a child can inherit from their parents. However, in the past two years, PUPians have been stranded in the struggles of the online class setup. President Manuel Muhi announced in December that Sintang Paaralan would undergo a hybrid learning modality for the second semester. This announcement was seen as either a welcome remark to the gradual return of traditional learning or another challenge in dealing with the compromised quality of education it can offer. The announcement came amidst the reconstruction of the north wing of the main building, the late release of its guidelines, looming budget cuts, and the government prioritizing militarization.

PUP, GIVE US CLARITY.

Since the academic year started, the PUP administration has been challenged to provide clear and comprehensive student guidelines. Despite the lack of guidance, scholars took the risk of renting dormitories and bed spaces in preparation for expected onsite classes. Unfortunately, those efforts were put in vain, as one week before the academic year 2022-2023 opened; an announcement was made that the six onsite sessions would only be available for junior and senior students taking laboratory courses for the first semester. It required PUPians who did not fall into the bracket to choose their preferred mode of learning –online or correspondence – based on their circumstances and preferences.

The administration’s decision to shift into a hybrid mode raised concerns for students, especially those who were financially incapable of coping with the setup. Working students needed more flexibility in choosing their schedules as they were significantly impacted by this change. It also affected students residing in dormitories who paid monthly rent and those who lived far from campus that faced increased transportation expenses for limited onsite classes.

It is only fair for students and instructors to meet halfway in terms of laying out a schedule and mode of learning. Hence, it should be compromising over sacrificing. Those who cannot attend onsite classes must be allowed to take them asynchronously–keeping attendance in mind.

As an institution that values inclusivity, PUP is expected to support less privileged students and respond to their needs. In doing so, students from all backgrounds will feel heard and included in every institution’s decision.

PRIORITIZE GENUINE REPRESENTATION AND SAFE SPACES.

The administration appeared not to prioritize students’ safety, “lacking transparency’’ regarding the termination of the Prudente-Ramos DND Accord. Although the termination occurred in January 2022, students were only made aware of it in April 2023 due to the efforts of the PUP Sentral na Konseho ng Mag-aaral (PUP-SKM). Supposing the SKM hadn’t questioned the military presence on campus, would the PUP administration have disclosed the termination of the accord?

Alongside this, the presence of the military on campus fosters a culture of surveillance and control which led to selfcensorship and restricted the flow of ideas. Militarization may also negatively impact students’ physical security.

Furthermore, the PUP Office of the Student Regent (PUP-OSR) released a red-tagging statement on Labor Day. They were implying that scholars should refrain from joining “terrorist groups” that cast shadows on progressive activism within the university. Although the OSR initially issued an apology statement, it was later deleted. It indicated that the highest student body of the University failed to represent the students genuinely and, instead, promoted intimidation among them. The student body’s deletion of the apology statement demonstrated their inability to firmly stand in genuinely representing the studentry.

Acknowledging that students thrive in an environment encouraging intellectual growth; free speech and open discussions are essential. Putting student safety above militarism and any program that interferes with their ability to learn is critical. Removing military personnel from the premises is necessary to nurture an environment where students can flourish academically, emotionally, and creatively. With this prioritization, we can cultivate a generation of empowered individuals ready to face future challenges.

BUDGET CUT IMPLIES QUALITY CUT.

From confidential funds to budget cuts, the Philippine government surprised the education sector yet again. PUP has already required additional funds and resources to promote LBE. It is disheartening to consider that the government’s budget cuts signify a denial of their commitment to providing free and quality education to Iskolars across the country.

The backbone of any higher education institution lies in its dedicated workforce. Each individual contributes to the success of the university. Despite their significant contributions, these individuals face financial constraints due to inadequate compensation. Employees – professors, admin staff, etc. – feel the burden of low and stagnant pay as necessities rise continuously. Meeting their financial demands and providing for their families is challenging in the current environment.

Alongside this, students have long fought for financial assistance and other support for themselves. Student financial aid is equally vital in guaranteeing fair access to education. Many students need financial help, making it challenging to seek further education and successfully concentrate on academics.

The detrimental effects of budget cuts on the University are also evident in other aspects. Students have struggled through the difficulties of studying with limited resources and facilities. Firstly, the need for sufficient budget allocation has hindered the establishment of new branches of the university in different parts of the country, despite the demand and requests for expanded access to education. Lack of funds has also impeded the maintenance, improvement, and expansion of essential facilities, including laboratories, libraries, classrooms, and other vital infrastructure needed for effective learning. We find ourselves renting projectors, cramming into overcrowded classrooms, and needing internet access in computer labs.

Precautionary measures against COVID-19 are also compromised by the budget cuts. Making the administration settle on the setup of disinfecting facilities once there are confirmed cases instead of conducting it on a regular basis. The mandatory wearing of face mask policy is becoming the only tool for students against the virus. Despite the fact that Manila tallies an average of 20 cases per day since May.

The time has come for the government to acknowledge the enormous worth of education and take proactive steps to ensure that academic staff and students have the resources they needed. It is by equipping them with proper funding, compensation, and facilities to hone their skills.

If the government continues to prioritize personal interests over fixing these issues, then the cycle of oppression will continue as long as the officials will merely be tolerant and not responsive to the current issues. The lack of support, insufficient budget allocation, safe and conducive spaces, and non-comprehensive guidelines are the many issues that need to be addressed that prohibit students from genuine LBE.

It is up to the Iskolars to assert that education should be accessible and hold the government and university management accountable. Amid the rampant incompetencies, we must be reminded that quality education must be sought inside and outside the academe. Let’s assert quality education, serve and light up the nation.