In another part of the world right now, people are fighting hard to see genuine democracy emerge and flourish in their lifetime. Twenty-five years ago in this very country, people have struggled for the same thing. And some time before that, Ateneans of incomparable passion--Edgar Jopson, Emannuel Lacaba, and Evelio Javier, to name a few--defied what was 'expected' of them as Ateneans. They died for the cause of freedom from the tethers of tyranny.
Yet today in the very confines of the university, democracy is constantly under threat of disintegration. The Sanggunian elections, a process supposedly instituted to engage Ateneans and their democratic commitments, barely receive any substantial amount of fervor except from the candidates themselves. Electoral failures have been a common occurrence in the polls. At first glance, the most convenient justification would be our contemporary societal and cultural anxiety about democracy itself. But then again, the Ateneans' mobilization for last year's national elections refutes this to some extent.
So why the disparity? Why is there something amiss when it comes to the student body's concern for the Sanggunian?
Is it because the Sanggunian failed to implement more projects for the students? Is it because of the inherent challenges to logistical organization? Or is it because the Sanggunian has failed to make itself an essential institution in the university life of Ateneans--to the point that it has been perceived as an alien, opaque, and exclusive sort of circle? The Society is inclined to believe that the Sanggunian's faltering struggle to make itself 'relevant' is because of the latter reason: present systems of inclusion and representation are either shallow or misconstrued. Take for instance the assertion of some that 'your Sanggunian' is a co-formator. This claim violently reverses what a student government ought to be. The student government should not be a mere appendage of the powers-that-be. The student government must be the vessel by which students course through their contentions about the 'rules of the game'.
Ateneans deserve more than officers who act as mere relayers of information or policies that have already been decided. The powerless House of Representatives haphazardly organized by the Sanggunian solely for the botched College Fair initiative is an example of such attempts to create empty gestures of consultation and representation. Channels of debate must be built from the grassroots level, and not from the inconspicuous circles of those who already think on the level of 'what's-in-it-for-me'. Sometimes we cannot blame individuals alone, for the institution as it is perpetuates this culture of convenience and complicity.
There still are, of course, some good men and women inside the Sanggunian; perhaps there are a lot more outside of it. What we are calling for is utmost engagement and vigilance in the upcoming Sanggunian elections. It is our sole autonomous student government. The task of making it truly ours is not a matter of choice; it is a matter of responsibility. A revolution in the Ateneo is waiting in the wings. Will Ateneans make it happen?
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Disturbing your so-called peace
Good day!
It has been two years since we released our last string of statements regarding the state of student politics in the Ateneo, and in that span of time, we have closely observed how the Sanggunian and the rest of the university responded to the challenge of breaking the predominant culture of complacency. While some groups rose up to heed the call of vigilance and critique, it is unfortunate that some institutional as well as individual practices in the Ateneo still retain the problematic character of imperviousness to the wider structural problems of society.
In light of its advocacy to perpetuate an ethos of critical discourse as a means to push Ateneans to ask difficult questions and, subsequently, to do even more difficult deeds to address the unsettling condition of university student politics, the Society wishes to contribute once more to the terrain of public dialog in the Ateneo.
The upcoming Freshmen and Special Elections for the Sanggunian remind us once more of our enormous task as a community to move away from paradigms of service and governance which isolate the student body from the harsh realities of Philippine society. Before incumbents and candidates alike protest this claim, we challenge them to take a look at the processes and beliefs they propagate: are they really taking the necessary time and effort to present their constituents with an analysis of Philippine society that is rooted in a concrete political program and ideology? Or are they (as how the Sanggunian-led project Bantay Presidente appears like) just there to offer Ateneans with a hodgepodge of information which substantially lack an insight on the structural and material basis of power in society?
There are a lot more examples in the Ateneo which we must pay due attention to. One of these is the still dismal condition of the political party system in the university. While the two established parties namely IBIG-Agila and Ignacio have won their share of seats in every election since their establishment, a more long-term analysis would lead us to the fact that these two parties ran on the logic of sheer utilitarianism more than a coherent and identifiable ideology. What has made this systemic problem worse is the fact that higher echelons of power seek to actively intervene and manipulate what should be an organic process of political identification, e.g. the establishment of a performance management system, stringent rules on party campaigning in elections, etc. As a result, Ateneans (especially freshmen as we speak) still suffer from the lack of candidates whose platforms have the potential to go beyond the activity-for-a-cause model of executing projects.
Another issue that the Society wishes to address is the Ateneo COMELEC’s myopic view of itself as a body which should merely execute logistical demands. It is in our belief that the Ateneo COMELEC should be at the forefront of pushing for electoral reforms which would then enable the deepening of student politics. Unfortunately, what Ateneans are seeing right now is but a student-led arm that propagates a culture of anti-politicization through its restrictive policies and its skewed priorities (i.e. launching automated elections while being silent about their past record of incompetence and the real need for electoral policies that are more democratic in character).
The return of the Gadfly Society is our way of sending a message that we are greatly unsettled by these still-existing practices and policies that restrict Ateneans from thinking and acting radically. We shall persist in doing our advocacy of disrupting complacency—whether it may be in thought or in action. We are not afraid to question. Ideas after all, as the renegade character V had famously quipped, are bulletproof.
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Friday, March 7, 2008
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Monday, February 25, 2008
On Silence
There are moments when everything that needs to be said has already been said, and thus the only thing left to say is nothing at all. But there are moments when silence springs not from exhaustiveness but from exhaustion. Frankly, it is easy to get tired of the promises that were being shouted during the election season.
All of the candidates (party-affiliated or not) speak of change. But what is change? Will there be genuine change when these candidates come to power in Sanggunian or will it only perpetuate the vicious cycle of incompetence? Can an independent president who claims to have a “fresh perspective” (if such really exists) really make a difference? Can a Sanggunian led by three of the four top officials from the political party that claims to have monopoly over a “strong Sanggu” really deliver its promises? Can a Sanggunian filled with vacancies due to abstentions really function to its fullest capabilities?
Our silence does not mean we are in favor of the candidates or the winners of elections. On the contrary, we believe that the elections did not answer any question but only posed more. Our silence is not one of support but of utmost skepticism on how the rhetoric of change has been easily thrown around by candidates who want to gain popular support.
On a final note, we would like to get the attention of this Ateneo IGEA. If you are looking for stupid all you need to do is look at the mirror.
All of the candidates (party-affiliated or not) speak of change. But what is change? Will there be genuine change when these candidates come to power in Sanggunian or will it only perpetuate the vicious cycle of incompetence? Can an independent president who claims to have a “fresh perspective” (if such really exists) really make a difference? Can a Sanggunian led by three of the four top officials from the political party that claims to have monopoly over a “strong Sanggu” really deliver its promises? Can a Sanggunian filled with vacancies due to abstentions really function to its fullest capabilities?
Our silence does not mean we are in favor of the candidates or the winners of elections. On the contrary, we believe that the elections did not answer any question but only posed more. Our silence is not one of support but of utmost skepticism on how the rhetoric of change has been easily thrown around by candidates who want to gain popular support.
On a final note, we would like to get the attention of this Ateneo IGEA. If you are looking for stupid all you need to do is look at the mirror.
Friday, February 8, 2008
The Assassination of Karl Satinitigan
Disclaimer: The title is an allusion to the Philippine Daily Inquirer editorial (February 6, 2008) entitled "The Assassination of De Venecia"
We are terribly disappointed at how the Sanggunian has handled the current chain of events. We are referring to the recent string of resignations in the student council, with great emphasis on the issue of Karl Satinitigan's non-enrollment.
We have read the article in The Guidon entitled "Top Sanggu officers resign." We agree to the students' reactions when they say that the Sanggunian should have told the students about these resignations and vacancies. We agree when students talk about how Sanggunian should have been more transparent with the internal workings of the council.
We have also read the statement of the newly sworn Sanggunian President, Cabrei Cabreira, on the status of Karl Satinitigan. We are terribly disappointed at how the statement deflected the various issues raised by our group and other students by saying that "laudable efforts from our lower units were significantly negated by the absence of clear-cut leadership."
Why are they (the President speaking in behalf of the Sanggunian) putting blame on Karl Satinitigan? Is the President of the Sanggunian the only one liable for this "absence of clear-cut leadership?" Aren't the Vice President and the other officers also culpable? Why does it sound like the Karl Satinitigan issue is being used as a fire escape from the burning building known as the Sanggunian? Can't the Sanggunian take care of its own? If it can't, how does it expect to "take care" of the student body? Karl Satinitigan is first and foremost a student and part of the Sanggunian constituency.
If there was one thing that the new president said that was right, then it would be the importance of the coming Sanggunian elections. It would be the true measure of how students perceive this recent chain of events. We wouldn't be surprised if, like the on-going plebiscite regarding the number of course representatives, the quota would not be reached.
We are terribly disappointed at how the Sanggunian has handled the current chain of events. We are referring to the recent string of resignations in the student council, with great emphasis on the issue of Karl Satinitigan's non-enrollment.
We have read the article in The Guidon entitled "Top Sanggu officers resign." We agree to the students' reactions when they say that the Sanggunian should have told the students about these resignations and vacancies. We agree when students talk about how Sanggunian should have been more transparent with the internal workings of the council.
We have also read the statement of the newly sworn Sanggunian President, Cabrei Cabreira, on the status of Karl Satinitigan. We are terribly disappointed at how the statement deflected the various issues raised by our group and other students by saying that "laudable efforts from our lower units were significantly negated by the absence of clear-cut leadership."
Why are they (the President speaking in behalf of the Sanggunian) putting blame on Karl Satinitigan? Is the President of the Sanggunian the only one liable for this "absence of clear-cut leadership?" Aren't the Vice President and the other officers also culpable? Why does it sound like the Karl Satinitigan issue is being used as a fire escape from the burning building known as the Sanggunian? Can't the Sanggunian take care of its own? If it can't, how does it expect to "take care" of the student body? Karl Satinitigan is first and foremost a student and part of the Sanggunian constituency.
If there was one thing that the new president said that was right, then it would be the importance of the coming Sanggunian elections. It would be the true measure of how students perceive this recent chain of events. We wouldn't be surprised if, like the on-going plebiscite regarding the number of course representatives, the quota would not be reached.
Sunday, December 30, 2007
In His Words
We can only serve our country by telling her the truth, however bitter it be.
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Can't you see the perfection in the present?
Claiming that the status quo is perfect is a twisted and ignorant comment. It leads us to question the reader's power of observation. It is also saddening to find those who have developed thick skins, myopic eyes, and deaf ears. Although we do not seek perfection (there is and will be no such thing), we strive for a society that values freedom.
--------
Can't you see the perfection in the present?
Claiming that the status quo is perfect is a twisted and ignorant comment. It leads us to question the reader's power of observation. It is also saddening to find those who have developed thick skins, myopic eyes, and deaf ears. Although we do not seek perfection (there is and will be no such thing), we strive for a society that values freedom.
The 30th of December is Not Just a Holiday
Remember, remember the 30th of December
A blue-blooded mason was shot
We know of no reason
Why this blue-blooded mason
Should ever be forgot
Good day!
Allow us first to apologize for this intrusion of ours. We do, like many of you, appreciate the comforts of everyday routine, the security of the familiar, the tranquility of repetition. We enjoy them as much as anyone would. But in the spirit of commemoration - whereby those important events of the past, usually associated with someone’s death or the beginning of some bloody revolution, are celebrated with a nice holiday. We thought we could mark this December the 30th, a day that is sadly no longer remembered, by taking sometime out of our daily lives to sit down and think for a while.
There are of course those who do not want us to speak. In fact even now, as they read through this, they are already closing their minds to the truth that we speak and brand us as cowards and mere ranters. Why? Because while the truncheon may be used in lieu of conversation, words will always retain their power. Words are the means to meaning; for those who will listen – the enunciation of truth. And the truth is there is something terribly wrong with this country and our own Ateneo community. We have cruelty and injustice, intolerance and oppression, poverty and suffering – all these feasting upon our apathy, ignorance, and inaction. But while some have the freedom to object, to think and speak as you saw fit, you are called destabilizers and anarchists – coercing your conformity, and soliciting your submission and consent. How did this happen? Who’s to blame? Well certainly there are those more responsible than others. They will be held accountable. But again, truth be told, if you’re looking for the guilty, you need only to look at a mirror. We know why you did it. You were afraid, who wouldn’t be? With everyone trying to live a happy, care-free, and comfortable life, only someone deranged would go out of his/her way and act. Everyone is pre-occupied with the worries and demands of mere living – getting high grades, being appreciated by parents, connecting with friends, finding a life-partner, celebrating victories and achievements, mourning over failures and disappointments. There were a myriad of problems that conspire to corrupt your reason and rob you of your common sense. Fear, apathy, and inaction got the best of you. You are resigned to conform and remain silent.
This year, we sought to end that silence. This year, the Society disturbed you from your dwellings of comfort, to remind you what you have forgotten. More than 100 years ago, a group of young men dreamt of a nation that is theirs and the greatest of them died a martyr’s death by gunfire. Our only hope is that his death will not be in vain. We may be free from the colonizers of past, but are we truly a nation worthy of the blood of our heroes? Do our actions give honor to the people who came before us and to the future that lies beyond us? Fairness, justice, freedom, democracy, and nationhood are more than just words. They are perspectives. So if you see nothing, if the crime of inaction remains unknown to you, we would suggest that you allow the 30th of December to pass unmarked. But if you see what we see, if you feel as we feel, and if you would seek as we seek. Then prove yourselves worthy to be called the hope of the motherland. Take a stand and stop thinking of yourself alone! Futures are destroyed for every second of your inaction.
If only we can be true men and women of a nation forged in the blood of heroes - only then can we give that blue-blooded mason, a 30th of December that shall never, ever be forgot!
Thursday, December 27, 2007
A Christmas Message
Here's a reply to an e-mail we received last December 17, 2007. Our reply is dated December 27, 2007. The e-mail sent to us is posted after our reply.
Greetings of peace to you!
Firstly, we do not wish to be recognized. We really do not understand why people think that all we want is the attention. We do not understand why people think we are so proud to be in last November's The Guidon headline. All we want is for people to discuss the issues that we raise. It doesn't matter whether our group is mentioned or not. The important thing is that people talk about the people and events that comprises our realities.
We do not propagate hate. People who act need not be afraid.
Rizal was hated by his enemies yet praised by those whom he defends and those who believe the truth of words and his works. The same goes for the whole Propaganda movement.
Again, these projects/activities that you claim are not for the Society to do but for the people who see the truth of our words. But we do claim that as individuals, not as a Society, our members are exemplary Ateneans who toil hard in their various fields. Our members are students worth emulating in academics and in co-curricular academics. Please stop lambasting those whom you do not know.
Many have accepted the fact that we shall forever cling on to the secrecy of our identities. It is futile to demand our names. It would be healthy if you would follow suit. Please stop demanding for our identities and let's talk about what needs to be changed, how students can be better formed, and what critical decisions should the administration be doing.
Truly, we commend the people who started the Sumilao initiative. As individuals, we have contributed to the campaign in several ways. But what we said in our last e-mail is true. Ateneo's support for the campaign is questionable. We are primarily referring to the support from the students, more specifically their actual physical presence. The Ateneans ability to pool funds is truly unquestionable. We commend Sanggunian for their efforts. But it is also unquestionable that many remain unmoved. Word is going around about students conversing about the farmers, mistaking their name to be that of a certain dance group. There is also news that although the farmers are warmly welcomed by the community, only a handful of students, faculty members, and professionals actually go our of their way to visit the farmers in front of DAR and accompany them to their various marches around the Metro. If Ateneo truly supports the campaign, why are these things happening? Again, as individuals, we have contributed to the campaign in several different ways. We pray that you also did.
We recognize the many unsung heroes of our Nation who are found in the Ateneo community. But we know that these people are enlightened to the fact that their deeds need no special attention. They'd rather have the inaction of the many to be subjected under the magnifying glass.
We do not claim to be infallible. We do not claim to be perfect. We understand that many are not pleased with what we are doing. But we know that we are doing our part. Although we welcome criticism, we believe that the Atenean flame of passion should be re-channeled to more constructive things.
May Christ be always in your Christmas.
Laong Laan
---------
An e-mail we received from an undisclosed address.
Greetings of peace to you!
Firstly, we do not wish to be recognized. We really do not understand why people think that all we want is the attention. We do not understand why people think we are so proud to be in last November's The Guidon headline. All we want is for people to discuss the issues that we raise. It doesn't matter whether our group is mentioned or not. The important thing is that people talk about the people and events that comprises our realities.
We do not propagate hate. People who act need not be afraid.
Rizal was hated by his enemies yet praised by those whom he defends and those who believe the truth of words and his works. The same goes for the whole Propaganda movement.
Again, these projects/activities that you claim are not for the Society to do but for the people who see the truth of our words. But we do claim that as individuals, not as a Society, our members are exemplary Ateneans who toil hard in their various fields. Our members are students worth emulating in academics and in co-curricular academics. Please stop lambasting those whom you do not know.
Many have accepted the fact that we shall forever cling on to the secrecy of our identities. It is futile to demand our names. It would be healthy if you would follow suit. Please stop demanding for our identities and let's talk about what needs to be changed, how students can be better formed, and what critical decisions should the administration be doing.
Truly, we commend the people who started the Sumilao initiative. As individuals, we have contributed to the campaign in several ways. But what we said in our last e-mail is true. Ateneo's support for the campaign is questionable. We are primarily referring to the support from the students, more specifically their actual physical presence. The Ateneans ability to pool funds is truly unquestionable. We commend Sanggunian for their efforts. But it is also unquestionable that many remain unmoved. Word is going around about students conversing about the farmers, mistaking their name to be that of a certain dance group. There is also news that although the farmers are warmly welcomed by the community, only a handful of students, faculty members, and professionals actually go our of their way to visit the farmers in front of DAR and accompany them to their various marches around the Metro. If Ateneo truly supports the campaign, why are these things happening? Again, as individuals, we have contributed to the campaign in several different ways. We pray that you also did.
We recognize the many unsung heroes of our Nation who are found in the Ateneo community. But we know that these people are enlightened to the fact that their deeds need no special attention. They'd rather have the inaction of the many to be subjected under the magnifying glass.
We do not claim to be infallible. We do not claim to be perfect. We understand that many are not pleased with what we are doing. But we know that we are doing our part. Although we welcome criticism, we believe that the Atenean flame of passion should be re-channeled to more constructive things.
May Christ be always in your Christmas.
Laong Laan
---------
An e-mail we received from an undisclosed address.
HINDI NIYO KAYA PANINDIGAN YUNG MGA SINASABI NIYO KAYA AYAW NIYO MAGPAKILALA. PARA KAYONG MGA BAKLA NA NAKA-CLOSET. ANG SARAP LANG KASI MAGALIT SA MUNDO, MANIRA, GAYA NG GINAGAWA NIYO PERO HINDI NAMAN KILALA KUNG SINO ANG GUMAGAWA. TAKOT KAYO SA SASABIHIN NG MGA TAO EH KAPAG NAKILALA NA KAYO KAYA NAGTATAGO KAYO SA PANGALAN NA GAYFLY ESTE GADFLY SOCIETY. YUN TALAGA ANG DAHILAN KUNG BAKIT AYAW NIYO MAGPAKILALA. SIGURO MGA LOSERS LANG KAYO NA KULANG SA PANSIN. OH YAN PINANSIN KO NA KAYO, SIGURO ANG SAYA NIYO NA.
PARA KAYONG MGA LIGAW NA BALA TUWING NEW YEAR, NAKAKASAKIT, PERO HINDI ALAM KUNG SAAN NANGGAGALING. SO ANO PANG PURPOSE NIYO KUNG HINDI MAG PROPAGATE NG HATRED??
ANG KAPAL NAMAN NG MUKHA NIYO, GINAGAMIT NIYO PA ANG PSEUDONYM NI JOSE RIZAL. IBANG IBA NAMAN ANG PINANINDIGAN NI JOSE RIZAL SA PINANINDIGAN NIYO AT NAGPAKILALA SIYA SA LIPUNAN, HINDI TULAD NIYO NA MGA DUWAG.
HINDI KAYO MIRROR NG SOCIETY DAHIL SA LIPUNAN, ANG MGA TUNAY NA NANINIDGAN AY NAGPAPAKILALA, HINDI NAGTATAGO. AT IKINAMAMATAY NILA ANG KANILANG PINANININDIGAN. HINDI TULAD NIYO NA PURO SALITA LANG, WALA KAYONG MGA ACTIONS/PROJECTS.
SANA MAGKAROON NAMAN KAYO NG BALLS NA MAGPAKILALA, LALO PA KAYO SUSUPORTAHAN NG LIPUNAN KUNG GANUN. HAHANGAAN KO PA KAYO LALO KAPAG GINAWA NIYO IYON AT SUSUPORTAHAN ANG MGA ADHIKAIN NIYO.
WAG NIYONG IISIPIN NA DAHIL MAY PAGBABAGO SA LIPUNAN AY DAHIL SA GINAGAWA NIYO. ANG KAPAL NAMAN NG MUKHA NIYO KUNG GANUN. NAKIKIHALO PA KAYO SA MGA SUMILAO, EH HINDI NAMAN KAYO NAG-START NG MOVEMENT TO SUPPORT THEM. NAKIKISAWSAW PA KAYO.
HINDI KAYO EMBEDDED SA SOCIETY KUNG HINDI MGA LOSERS KAYO NA WALANG ALAM KUNG HINDI MAKITA ANG KAMALIAN NG LIPUNAN. SANA MAKAHANAP KAYO NG KAUSAP AT MGA KAIBIGAN PARA HINDI KAYO NAMEMESTE NG MGA TAO. BAKIT DI KAYO MAGSULAT NG MGA MASASAYANG BAGAY? BAKIT PURO HATRED LANG?
PARA KAYONG MGA LIGAW NA BALA TUWING NEW YEAR, NAKAKASAKIT, PERO HINDI ALAM KUNG SAAN NANGGAGALING. SO ANO PANG PURPOSE NIYO KUNG HINDI MAG PROPAGATE NG HATRED??
ANG KAPAL NAMAN NG MUKHA NIYO, GINAGAMIT NIYO PA ANG PSEUDONYM NI JOSE RIZAL. IBANG IBA NAMAN ANG PINANINDIGAN NI JOSE RIZAL SA PINANINDIGAN NIYO AT NAGPAKILALA SIYA SA LIPUNAN, HINDI TULAD NIYO NA MGA DUWAG.
HINDI KAYO MIRROR NG SOCIETY DAHIL SA LIPUNAN, ANG MGA TUNAY NA NANINIDGAN AY NAGPAPAKILALA, HINDI NAGTATAGO. AT IKINAMAMATAY NILA ANG KANILANG PINANININDIGAN. HINDI TULAD NIYO NA PURO SALITA LANG, WALA KAYONG MGA ACTIONS/PROJECTS.
SANA MAGKAROON NAMAN KAYO NG BALLS NA MAGPAKILALA, LALO PA KAYO SUSUPORTAHAN NG LIPUNAN KUNG GANUN. HAHANGAAN KO PA KAYO LALO KAPAG GINAWA NIYO IYON AT SUSUPORTAHAN ANG MGA ADHIKAIN NIYO.
WAG NIYONG IISIPIN NA DAHIL MAY PAGBABAGO SA LIPUNAN AY DAHIL SA GINAGAWA NIYO. ANG KAPAL NAMAN NG MUKHA NIYO KUNG GANUN. NAKIKIHALO PA KAYO SA MGA SUMILAO, EH HINDI NAMAN KAYO NAG-START NG MOVEMENT TO SUPPORT THEM. NAKIKISAWSAW PA KAYO.
HINDI KAYO EMBEDDED SA SOCIETY KUNG HINDI MGA LOSERS KAYO NA WALANG ALAM KUNG HINDI MAKITA ANG KAMALIAN NG LIPUNAN. SANA MAKAHANAP KAYO NG KAUSAP AT MGA KAIBIGAN PARA HINDI KAYO NAMEMESTE NG MGA TAO. BAKIT DI KAYO MAGSULAT NG MGA MASASAYANG BAGAY? BAKIT PURO HATRED LANG?
Friday, November 30, 2007
Manila Peninsula Incident
Yesterday, when it was announced that classes from 6:00PM onwards were suspended because of a coup threat in Makati, everyone rejoiced. Did they rejoice because there's another attempt to topple GMA or is it just because of an early vacation?
Last night a lot of students were complaining about the curfew. Did they complain because there might be bloodshed at night or is it just because they have to call the late night parties off?
Some were calling Trillianes brave. Some called him stupid. Some didn't care at all.
Andres Bonifacio would have been so proud of us.
Recent Comments
We have been receiving a lot of e-mails asking us to reveal our identities. Why this obsession? Is there no truth to the words we speak? Must our faces and so-called identities be linked to what we are say so that they can be true? You are not blind, you know we are right. How can we be not right if we are just mirroring reality. Why can't you engage us in constructive dialogue amidst the anonymity? We remain anonymous not because we are afraid but because we want to prove a point - there are students who are bothered by the things that are happening and that are not happening. We are students, undergraduates. That should be enough. Why do we need to attach names, ID numbers, and courses to what we say? What end will that achieve?
In connection to "identities", there is the question of what exactly are we doing to make things "better". On the group level, we recognize that we cannot do everything. Thus we saw that it is our role to be mirrors of reality and popular student sentiments (we either agree or disagree to these). Isn't "disturbing" an action in itself? Why are people clamoring for us to do something concrete? Is this not concrete enough? And why should we have monopoly of all the actions? There are thousands of Ateneans out there. This is our part to play. What is yours? What is theirs?
On the other level, as individuals, we are deeply engaged in many activities related to our cause. Many of us are members of organizations and some of us are into student politics. We are people who have seen the system both inside and out. We know what we are saying for we are in the system, we are not detached but truly embedded.
Are we alone in our sentiments? No. There are many who support us. Many have e-mailed us, expressing their support for us. There are also those who support us. We are a gadfly, we don't expect everyone to agree with us - what is important is that people engage us.
In connection to "identities", there is the question of what exactly are we doing to make things "better". On the group level, we recognize that we cannot do everything. Thus we saw that it is our role to be mirrors of reality and popular student sentiments (we either agree or disagree to these). Isn't "disturbing" an action in itself? Why are people clamoring for us to do something concrete? Is this not concrete enough? And why should we have monopoly of all the actions? There are thousands of Ateneans out there. This is our part to play. What is yours? What is theirs?
On the other level, as individuals, we are deeply engaged in many activities related to our cause. Many of us are members of organizations and some of us are into student politics. We are people who have seen the system both inside and out. We know what we are saying for we are in the system, we are not detached but truly embedded.
Are we alone in our sentiments? No. There are many who support us. Many have e-mailed us, expressing their support for us. There are also those who support us. We are a gadfly, we don't expect everyone to agree with us - what is important is that people engage us.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Crippled Leadership
During the first semester of this school year, the Sanggunian has done nothing substantial or worthy of praise, except for the "Dress Code Buzz" if you call that note-worthy.
It's ironic how "men and women for others" can show more concern on their "right to self-expression a.k.a. right to choose what to wear in school" than on the rights of Filipinos to truth, good governance, and democracy in its true sense.
The Sanggunian, as of now, lacks the capability to move the student body towards "nation-building." Even some people from the inside are saying the same thing.
Tips for you guys:
1- Bridge leadership. Connect with different organizations and institutions (departments, etc). Create a strong network.
2- Show progress. Make yourself visible. E-mail updates to the student body or create your own website that posts updates on what you have been doing or what each of your committee/branch has been doing.
Suggested Breakdown:
3- Utilize all directions of communication: Top-down, Bottom-up, Lateral. Have an email address or tagboard where students can give you comments or suggestions. Have regular peer evaluations among the officers. Have your course reps evaluate you and the entire organization. Etc.
Good luck, Sanggu!
~ Dimasalang
It's ironic how "men and women for others" can show more concern on their "right to self-expression a.k.a. right to choose what to wear in school" than on the rights of Filipinos to truth, good governance, and democracy in its true sense.
The Sanggunian, as of now, lacks the capability to move the student body towards "nation-building." Even some people from the inside are saying the same thing.
Tips for you guys:
1- Bridge leadership. Connect with different organizations and institutions (departments, etc). Create a strong network.
2- Show progress. Make yourself visible. E-mail updates to the student body or create your own website that posts updates on what you have been doing or what each of your committee/branch has been doing.
Suggested Breakdown:
Sanggunian
- Central Board- Committee 1
- Committee 2
- Committee 3
- Committee 4
- SOM
- Seniors
- Juniors
- Sophomores
- Freshmen
- SOH
- Seniors
- Juniors
- Sophomores
- Freshmen
- SOSS
- Seniors
- Juniors
- Sophomores
- Freshmen
- SOSE
- Seniors
- Juniors
- Sophomores
- Freshmen
3- Utilize all directions of communication: Top-down, Bottom-up, Lateral. Have an email address or tagboard where students can give you comments or suggestions. Have regular peer evaluations among the officers. Have your course reps evaluate you and the entire organization. Etc.
Good luck, Sanggu!
~ Dimasalang
Thursday, October 11, 2007
We Support the Sumilao March
Yesterday we saw a flyer inserted in the recent issue of The Guidon. It spoke of a current movement to support the Sumilao farmers of Bukidnon who are currently marching as a sign of protest against a government that continues to rob them of their land. We in the society deem this as a very good movement that the Atenean community should engage in.
We firmly believe that as Ateneans who should be men-and-women-for-others we should support initiatives that try to empower those who are victims of injustice. It's a pity that it's already the finals week. Ateneans tend to be most apathetic during the finals week and the weeks that would follow. Nonetheless, these things should not be a hindrance for us to extend our aid to our fellow countrymen who are in need.
We challenge Ateneans to show the fiery passion that they displayed during the dress code issue and re-channel this in helping out in creating structural changes in society such as by supporting the Sumilao March. Sanggunian, if you really are not obsolete, aid these farmers in mobilizing the students to support them. Make students aware that there is much injustice happening outside our hallowed walls.
We challenge every student group in the university, not just the Sanggunian, to take part in this initiative. Every organization, whatever the thrust may be, is aiming for a more just society. Why not support the Sumilao farmers in their fight against continued injustice?
Please don't tell us that the Atenean concept of injustice is limited to the violation of the right to flaunt your Havaianas to school. We dare you to move!
We firmly believe that as Ateneans who should be men-and-women-for-others we should support initiatives that try to empower those who are victims of injustice. It's a pity that it's already the finals week. Ateneans tend to be most apathetic during the finals week and the weeks that would follow. Nonetheless, these things should not be a hindrance for us to extend our aid to our fellow countrymen who are in need.
We challenge Ateneans to show the fiery passion that they displayed during the dress code issue and re-channel this in helping out in creating structural changes in society such as by supporting the Sumilao March. Sanggunian, if you really are not obsolete, aid these farmers in mobilizing the students to support them. Make students aware that there is much injustice happening outside our hallowed walls.
We challenge every student group in the university, not just the Sanggunian, to take part in this initiative. Every organization, whatever the thrust may be, is aiming for a more just society. Why not support the Sumilao farmers in their fight against continued injustice?
Please don't tell us that the Atenean concept of injustice is limited to the violation of the right to flaunt your Havaianas to school. We dare you to move!
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
The Sanggunian is Obsolete
It has been half a year since the current Sanggunian officers have taken their oaths as the governing and representative body of the students of the Loyola Schools. In a few months time, they will be replaced by a new set of officers. As the first semester of their term draws to a close, it is more than fitting to ask the question – How is the Sanggunian?
It is fairly common to hear students complain that the Sanggunian is not doing anything, that it is not effective, visible, proactive, nor relevant any more. Going back to the vision-mission of our student council, we find that their task is to participate in student formation. But given the recent strings of parties that our Sanggunian is known for, is it really doing anything that could be approximately called student formation?
Our members have discreetly approached those who are within the structure of the Sanggunian and asked them what exactly they are doing. One of the recurring answers is that they are busy attending meetings. It is true that Sanggunian officers are busy attending meetings but what exactly are they talking about? We have no idea. A few weeks ago, we e-mailed the Secretary-general, asking that we may be given a copy of all minutes of these Sanggunian meetings. As of the present, the Secretary-general has yet to respond. Some officers claim that these meetings are for discussing their upcoming projects. Are they finally hatching a project that would encapsulate that catchy tag-line we heard during the Mititng de Avance – “Going Local”? What ever happened to the “7 Innovations”? Have the students of the Ateneo lost their senses that they fail to see these platforms in action or did we just hear promises written on air?
Some officers claim that they are busy representing the students in the various school committees. Can anyone inform us what committees are they representing us in? Can we be informed what is happening in those committee meetings? Or are these meetings just about trivial matters like the number of pebbles in Zen Garden? Are they actually fighting for student interest? If the continuous increase in the tuition fees is to be a measure, we believe that they are not.
On July 15, the Human Security Act was enforced. We asked the question – “What will Ateneo do?” Sanggunian, the bastion of student involvement, responded to our challenge by hosting a series of talks on the controversial law. What has happened since then? Has the Sanggunian released any official statement on whether it has or has not supported the HSA? It has been months since the issue broke out, yet we still see no concrete movements on the side of Ateneans.
If asked, “Would it matter if there were no Sanggunian?”, we would guess the majority’s answer (no abstain included) to be NO. In short, we believe that at their current pace, the Sanggunian is an obsolete institution.
Is there still hope for the Sanggunian? As a popular brand would say, “Impossible is Nothing”.
First, the Sanggunian should tackle relevant issues that would directly affect the students such as tuition fee increases, the safety of the students along Katipunan, the unreliable wireless internet connection, the “unfriendliness” of the campus towards differently able students, the limited number of computers in the popular red light district of the RSF, and the increase of prices in the cafeteria, among others. The Sanggunian should not be primarily concerned about parties but on delivering quality services to the student body. But there is more to student services than lending calculators, bibles, and umbrellas.
Second, if the Sanggunian manages to provide such quality services, why not let the students know about it? The Ateneo Online Bulletin is neat, but it surely is not enough. Why not utilize the promo board in EDSA walk? While you’re at it, why not post the minutes of the various meetings of the school committees and the various school boards and of the central board? Let the students know what is happening in those meetings. Let us know how “well” you are representing us!
Third, why not hold an event that is similar to the presidential SONA? The Sanggunian president mentioned to us that he actually gives a “State of the Sanggunian” report monthly to block representatives. Why not deliver one every semester? If students are willing to listen to the winners of the last senatorial elections (we do hope that this event will push through), the more they should be enthusiastic about those whom they elect in the student council. Or are you afraid that your speeches wouldn’t even last for an hour?
Sanggunian, we believe that there is much work to be done in your side. The recent strings of failure of elections and vacancies in positions should be more than enough to jolt you. Please prove us wrong when we say that the Sanggunian is obsolete.
It is fairly common to hear students complain that the Sanggunian is not doing anything, that it is not effective, visible, proactive, nor relevant any more. Going back to the vision-mission of our student council, we find that their task is to participate in student formation. But given the recent strings of parties that our Sanggunian is known for, is it really doing anything that could be approximately called student formation?
Our members have discreetly approached those who are within the structure of the Sanggunian and asked them what exactly they are doing. One of the recurring answers is that they are busy attending meetings. It is true that Sanggunian officers are busy attending meetings but what exactly are they talking about? We have no idea. A few weeks ago, we e-mailed the Secretary-general, asking that we may be given a copy of all minutes of these Sanggunian meetings. As of the present, the Secretary-general has yet to respond. Some officers claim that these meetings are for discussing their upcoming projects. Are they finally hatching a project that would encapsulate that catchy tag-line we heard during the Mititng de Avance – “Going Local”? What ever happened to the “7 Innovations”? Have the students of the Ateneo lost their senses that they fail to see these platforms in action or did we just hear promises written on air?
Some officers claim that they are busy representing the students in the various school committees. Can anyone inform us what committees are they representing us in? Can we be informed what is happening in those committee meetings? Or are these meetings just about trivial matters like the number of pebbles in Zen Garden? Are they actually fighting for student interest? If the continuous increase in the tuition fees is to be a measure, we believe that they are not.
On July 15, the Human Security Act was enforced. We asked the question – “What will Ateneo do?” Sanggunian, the bastion of student involvement, responded to our challenge by hosting a series of talks on the controversial law. What has happened since then? Has the Sanggunian released any official statement on whether it has or has not supported the HSA? It has been months since the issue broke out, yet we still see no concrete movements on the side of Ateneans.
If asked, “Would it matter if there were no Sanggunian?”, we would guess the majority’s answer (no abstain included) to be NO. In short, we believe that at their current pace, the Sanggunian is an obsolete institution.
Is there still hope for the Sanggunian? As a popular brand would say, “Impossible is Nothing”.
First, the Sanggunian should tackle relevant issues that would directly affect the students such as tuition fee increases, the safety of the students along Katipunan, the unreliable wireless internet connection, the “unfriendliness” of the campus towards differently able students, the limited number of computers in the popular red light district of the RSF, and the increase of prices in the cafeteria, among others. The Sanggunian should not be primarily concerned about parties but on delivering quality services to the student body. But there is more to student services than lending calculators, bibles, and umbrellas.
Second, if the Sanggunian manages to provide such quality services, why not let the students know about it? The Ateneo Online Bulletin is neat, but it surely is not enough. Why not utilize the promo board in EDSA walk? While you’re at it, why not post the minutes of the various meetings of the school committees and the various school boards and of the central board? Let the students know what is happening in those meetings. Let us know how “well” you are representing us!
Third, why not hold an event that is similar to the presidential SONA? The Sanggunian president mentioned to us that he actually gives a “State of the Sanggunian” report monthly to block representatives. Why not deliver one every semester? If students are willing to listen to the winners of the last senatorial elections (we do hope that this event will push through), the more they should be enthusiastic about those whom they elect in the student council. Or are you afraid that your speeches wouldn’t even last for an hour?
Sanggunian, we believe that there is much work to be done in your side. The recent strings of failure of elections and vacancies in positions should be more than enough to jolt you. Please prove us wrong when we say that the Sanggunian is obsolete.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Ateneo Doesn't Care
A few minutes or an hour from now, the verdict of the Sandiganbayan will be read to Joseph Estrada. What are Ateneans doing? They're still talking about the Ateneo-La Salle game. To my left, a guy is giggling at the Multiply account of who knows who and the girl to my right is cramming a reaction paper on an Entablado play.
VP Cuyegkeng, you should have suspended classes. I'm not expecting Ateneans to rally on the street. At least they'd have an inkling of knowledge on what's happening outside.
VP Cuyegkeng, you should have suspended classes. I'm not expecting Ateneans to rally on the street. At least they'd have an inkling of knowledge on what's happening outside.
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Gadfly Society in The Guidon
Read the editor-in-chief's opinion column, Keeping Track. The article is entitled "Unknown watchdog". A copy of the article and our reaction to the article will be posted here soon.
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
On Visibility
We believe that visibility is just half of what the students demand of Sanggunian. The bigger question is - If there were no Sanggunian, to what extent will the students be affected? Make us feel that we need you.
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
Letter to Sanggunian and to its President
Dear Karl and the Sanggunian,
We heard that this coming weekend, there will be a SOSS event. But I believe this is primarily geared towards freshmen. How about the upperclassmen? What service will the Sanggunian provide and are currently providing for the students of Loyola Schools? Please do not point your fingers to ASCC and DSWS – these are not the only things that Sanggunian is capable of doing, right?
We also heard that Sanggunian officers sit in the various school committees. Can the student body be informed what committees are you pertaining to? What is happening in those committee meetings? Why are we not informed? Who are those who are supposedly representing us in these “important” committees?
How is the bureaucracy of Sanggunian? Honestly, the student body (yes, we have asked around) is perplexed with what each position in the Sanggunian does. We are not saying that we need yet another orientation. What we are saying is that we want to see SANGGUNIAN AT WORK. It is working, right? Because if it isn't, we think that the money that goes to the Sanggunian and the elections that put the officers where they are should be put to better use.
Freshmen elections are near. We hope that there will be no failure of elections for the Finance Officer. But it wouldn't be a shocker if there will be. We know that you understand what we are trying to say.
Karl, we shall be waiting for your SONA.
We shall be waiting for a Sanggunian that works.
Watching you always,
Gadfly Society
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