INQUIRY 2022, Volume 4, No. 1

NQUIRY

The yearly

COMELEC to conduct first hyflex elections, expects 100% voter turnout.

Following the limited face-to-face classes this semester, Saint Louis University- Commission on Elections (SLU-COMELEC) conducts...

Blue,

official student publication of Saint Louis University

DASIG, RIGHTS form coalition under a ‘unified platform’. Political parties Democratic Alliance for Integrated Governance (DASIG) and Responsible and Intelligent Governance Highlighting Transparency...

The burden of choice. Paper beats rock—not in the game, this time around. In the recent May 2022 National Elections, the country witnessed how votes changed the Philippine socio-political...

COMELEC to conduct first hyflex elections, expects 100% voter turnout

Following the limited face-to-face classes this semester, Saint Louis University (SLU) Commission on Elections (COMELEC) conducts hybrid-flexible elections allowing a combined faceto-face and online set-up for this year’s Kataas-taasang Sangunian ng mga Mag-aaral/Supeme Student Council (KASAMA/SSC) General Elections with the theme “Pagsibol: Mga Bagong Tinig ng San Luis.”

Unlike previous elections, this year’s election will be held for five consecutive days that was initially set on October 3 but later on moved to October 10 to 14, with four days of online voting and one day on site.

Joshua Troy Mose, COMELEC Chairperson explained that with the new election set-up, the COMELEC had undergone multiple steps and processes to organize the election. However, he assured that despite this, the commission is dedicated to pushing through the elections.

“This year's election is quite a bit new since it will be hyflex. Meaning it's a combination of the traditional and the online setup. This entails more responsibility for the commission, we have a lot of documents to process, technicalities, and legalities to counter. But on top of that we are still dedicated to promoting the elections and also to introduce the KASAMA/SSC to the studentry. That's why we had the Political Party Expo. We are also addressing previous issues that the commission has encountered before,” Mose said.

Moreover, with the upcoming elections, the COMELEC Chairperson also stated that the commission expects a hypothetical 100% voter turnout. However, given the records of the previous elections, a 30% voter turnout is their safety net.

“We always expect 100% voter turnout,” Mose stated. “Of course, the 100% turnout this year is purely hypothetical since it’s the first time for us to have both on-site and online elections. We can’t really compare the 2019 and 2021 elections because they both have distinctions. The 2019 [elections] got 34% if I’m not mistaken, and that is pure onsite and was only administered within a day [while] 2021 is purely online, we got 36% in a span of 5 days. In terms of publicity, they also differ since we utilized different platforms, now it’s combined. But I think 30% is our safety net since it’s the trend for the past years,” he added.

Based on the updated timetable of COMELEC, the canvassing of votes and the proclamation of winners will be held on October 14, while the induction of elected officers will be on October 21, 2022.

By Hannah Rouie Tamayo

Parties conduct hybrid campaign for October polls

By Betha Servito

Saint Louis University’s Commission on Elections (COMELEC) allows the online and face-toface campaigning of the 2022 KASAMA/ SSC candidates from September 10 to October 8, 2022, with strict compliance with the rules and regulations involving electoral processes set by the commission to ensure safe and honest elections.

The Omnibus Election Code of 2018 states that the commission, headed by Joshua Troy Mose, COMELEC Chairperson, shall mandate policies on the implementation of the hybrid student council elections.

Pursuant to the COMELEC Resolution No. 5 s 2022-2023, Section 2 of Article V on online campaigning, all candidates are mandated to register their social media accounts, including but not limited to Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram as platforms for disseminating campaign paraphernalia.

In addition, according to the resolution, the publicity and creatives department shall be the ones to collect through written or online submission and shall monitor the relative accounts.

Meanwhile, it is also mentioned in Section 8 of Article V that Foreign Intervention in online platforms is allowed, where the support statements do not degrade other candidates or political parties, do not intervene in the electoral processes and are not black propaganda. However, Foreign Intervention inside the school campus is not allowed. With regulations in place, bona fide alumnus or alumna with identification cards can join physical meetings of political parties inside the University premises.

As for the room-to-room campaign, according to Advisory No. 4, s 2022-2023, General Requirements before Campaigning and Guidelines have been set wherein political parties are required to get consent from the professor. Further, they are only given a maximum of 5 minutes and are only allowed to enter prior the start of the class or towards the end of the class.

Moreover, while physical campaigning is allowed, COMELEC still requires the candidates to follow the minimum health protocols on any face-to-face activities following Resolution No. 6 s 2022-2023, which mandates all candidates to observe the set regulations at all times for a safe campaign period.

VYING FOR VOTES. Aspiring student leaders conducts a university wide campaign as they present platforms, interests and engage with the Louisian body for the upcoming KASAMA/SSC Elections 2022 scheduled on October 10-14. PHOTOS by Angellie Eunice Baluyut and Erin Dacanay

DASIG, RIGHTS form coalition under a ‘unified platform’

By Paul Orsolino

Political parties Democratic Alliance for Integrated Governance (DASIG) and Responsible and Intelligent Governance Highlighting Transparency and Studentry (RIGHTS) recently formed a coalition for the academic year 2022-2023 as the Kataastaasang Sangunian ng mga Mag-aaral/ Supreme Student Council (KASAMA/ SSC) General Elections approaches.

Elections 2022: “Generally calm,” chairperson claims

By Hannah Rouie Tamayo

SLU COMELEC expects peace and order over the conduct of this year’s Kataasa-taasang Sanggunian ng Mag-aaral/ Supreme Student Council (KASAMA/SSC) General Elections.

When asked about the state of the KASAMA/SSC elections this year, Joshua Troy Mose, COMELEC Chairperson, stressed the preparedness of the Commission to address issues and grievances.

“[It is] generally calm compared to past elections. But we are prepared to face whatever issue that we will encounter in the coming days,” Mose said.

Meanwhile, during the filing of candidacy for this year’s KASAMA/SSC elections, COMELEC also stated they did not encounter any major issues.

“I think the digitalization of the candidature forms through Google forms helped lessen the probability that the candidate will commit mistakes in filling up the form," Mose said.

Moreover, Mose also confirmed that they only had one disqualification case due to issues on academic qualifications.

Further, he also mentioned that they had not received any formal complaints on campaign violations during the first week of the campaign, which should be sent through their email. The Commission will conduct hearings should there be complaints.

Regarding political party membership, the Chairperson said that the Political Expo last August 2022 sought to address and lessen the incidents of dual membership among students encountered during the past elections.

However, despite the peaceful first weeks of the campaign period, Mose anticipates possible issues may arise on the remaining days of the campaign period up to the canvassing.

“As much as I want to be optimistic even with countermeasures and knowledge, I expect previous issues will be raised like for example, the unreleased debate scores which was addressed last KASAMA/SSC First Year Elections 2021 with the use of Google sheets. There are always risks or issues of foreign intervention, and technical issues,” Mose said.

As stated in Resolution No. 9 s. 20222023 by the Saint Louis University Commission on Elections (SLU COMELEC) released last September 9, wherein the registrations of DASIG, RIGHTS, and Partido Reporma ng mga Mag-aaral ng San Luis-Alliance of Concerned Students (REPORMA-ACS), as well as the coalition of the two former parties were included.

According to Frank Pacio, standardbearer of RIGHTS and vice-presidential candidate, the coalition between the two parties was already in dialogue since 2019, in which a verbal agreement was made.

“I decided to invite DASIG for the coalition and collaboration, not because we want to win in the elections, but because I know we have a shared goal for the studentry, which I saw through my years of student leadership in the university,” Pacio said.

This was also confirmed by Charles Vergara, standard-bearer and presidential candidate of DASIG.

“Ang dalawang partido ay naging malinaw sa isa’t isa na ang koalisyong binubuo ay hindi upang labanan ang isang partido, ito ay tinanggap ng DASIG-SLU dahil sa malinaw na pagtanggap ng dalawang partido sa Unified Platform sa darating na halalan,” Vergara said.

“Kahit anong partido man ang magpahayag ng interes upang bumuo ng koalisyon, sa ganitong paaran din magiging bukas sa posibilidad at pakikipagusap ang partido [DASIG] kung saan sa taong ito, RIGHTS-SLU ang lumapit at nagpaabot,” Vergara added.

Moreover, upon registration as a coalition in SLU COMELEC, both parties submitted Unified Platforms of Government and Certificate of Allegiance.

VOTE.

VOTE.

VOICE.

IT dep't modifies voting system, expects a 'smooth' process

In preparation for the upcoming 2022 KASAMA/SSC General Elections, COMELEC's Information Technology Department worked on the modifications of the voting system to ensure a smooth and issue-free voting process.

“The voting system will be the same as in the previous elections. We modified the system’s functionality and fixed some errors from last elections. Since this school year has both online and face-to-face learning, we ensure that the voting system will work properly both online and onsite,” Matthew Faith Somera, IT Department Head explained in an interview.

Somera further explained that because of hybrid-flex learning modality, there will be both an online and onsite voting processes, whereas, on the onsite voting, students can vote on the selected precincts (computer laboratories) both in Saint Louis University (SLU) Main Campus, and SLU Maryheights Campus where the voting system is already accessible.

Meanwhile, the voting procedure in the online process will still be the same as in the previous elections where the students will access the links sent by that the Technology Management and Development Department (TMDD) through SLU email.

However, as stated in the Article VI, Section 3 of COMELEC Resolution No. 5 s 2022-2023, students who have current face-to-face setup may either choose whichever voting process they

By David Paul Bermudez

prefer.

Regarding the possible web traffic during online voting, Joshua Troy Mose, COMELEC Chairperson clarified they were already assured that it will not be an issue due to the introduction of a simpler program.

“We were assured by TMDD and IT Committee adviser way back in 2021 General Elections that web traffic will not be an issue in our case since we have a simpler program compared to the enrollment system. The same system will be used this year and for 2 consecutive elections it has been reliable.

However, Mose also clarified that the extended 5 days of elections is also to help prevent issues on online traffic.

Moreover, during the preparation, IT Department mentioned that the only difficulty they encountered was time management and they only encountered minor issues.

“With the upcoming exam, we do not have time or schedule to assess the system in one day, most of us are in 3rd and 4th year, our subjects require more time, especially since most of us are taking a thesis subject. When it comes to the system, we only had minor issues that were fixed right away,” Somera specified.

This school year’s election will be held on October 10 to 14. It will run for 5 days, one day for onsite voting for SLU Maryheights Campus students and one as well for SLU Main Campus students.

INQUIRY

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The burden of choice

Paper beats rock—not in the game, this time around.

In the recent May 2022 National Elections, the country witnessed how votes changed the Philippine socio-political landscape and the fate of the Filipinos for the next six years. Something as simple as a ballot paper shifted conversations, shaped perspectives, and unwrapped the boulders dragging the Philippines from the progress she truly deserved. As the Louisian student body elects a new set of leaders for the Kataas-taasang Sanggunian ng mga Mag-aaral/Supreme Student Council (KASAMA/SSC), the ballot grows ever more sacred.

True enough, students and the youth at large are the reflection of the status quo. So much so, they comprised the largest percentage of the voting population last May 2022. Indeed, the struggles of the youth matter, and so do their voices.

Like every student since the global COVID-19 outbreak, Louisians have endured two years of distance learning modalities. While some thrived in the online setup, others were left behind. Two years later, the Light of the North flickers once again—with the reimplementation of face-to-face classes in many collegiate programs. However, there appears to be wildfire within and even outside the confines of the university.

Gasoline prices are soaring, and so are basic commodities. The Philippine Peso weakened and is currently at its all-time lowest. Minimum fares for jeepneys increased by almost 2 pesos.

In a brewing economic recession and staggering inflation, being a student is difficult. Going to school is a challenge in itself. Being in school is an entirely different story, as old and recurring issues slowly surface.

Your classmate did not deserve to line up for hours just to enroll. The student you met at the hallway did not deserve to slip from an old, dilapidated staircase and to get hurt from it. Your best friend did not deserve to use obsolete and malfunctioning laboratory equipment when he fully paid his tuition. All of their voices would have just been a whisper in the wind or a shout into a void—if the leaders that you will soon put in place are complacent and incompetent.

This is why the ballot---that small piece of paper on your hand----holds more weight than the boulders on your shoulders.

The burden of choice is now in your hands, Louisian.

Vote wisely.

Nadz

Alfonso Justin Pantig, Kristine Piyaselli Wijayawickrama

SENIOR STAFF WRITERS

Shirleen Joy Aronchay, Carmela Nuelle Cerdan, Margarette Curilan, Erin Dacanay, Andrei Francis Rod Gasmen, Sonai Longsiab, Tricia Marcos, Micko Nieves, Aloysius Seno, Andrew Seno

SENIOR PHOTOJOURNALISTS

Maria Lea Ancheta, Raphael Jego Basangan, Yohannah Bawang, Naomi Bumal-o, Jonekah Alexine Catadman, Andrely Arede Ciano, Hephzibah Cirene Ely, Karen Faith Nuguid, Via Patricia Rivera, Jayne Macrine Sayson, Khamilla Mae Sualog

SENIOR CARTOONISTS

Chriselyn Alconis, Erika Dyane Corsino, Steven Ray Estabillo, Mikaela Garillo, Aliyah Jenelle Javier, Christine Joy Maghibon, Elyzsa Renee Jasmine Paje,

SENIOR LAYOUT ARTISTS

JUNIOR

Like the wind, be felt

Anew academic year beckons new events, sights, opportunities, and people; every year, one meets new faces, and along those are aspiring student leaders.

From elementary, it is a common practice to elect new student officers for the student council or student government with the goal of bridging the gap between the school administration and the student body. College, particularly Saint Louis University, conducts the same practice in the early months of the academic year and gives the students a platform to exercise their democratic right: voting for their preferred candidate.

Whether we admit it or not, from elementary, it is also common practice to choose leaders based on popularity, and that what they bring to the table just becomes an added bonus. Pointing fingers at voters regarding this attitude towards voting leaders is harsh, to say the least, when there is so little accessible material to understand what the candidates want to implement nor the capability to get the student council related-job done. At the same time, becoming part of the student council instead becomes a bragging right rather than a responsibility to bring the student body and school administration a step closer to working in sync.

The tertiary level, however, should be viewed as different. It is the last step before a student can advance to the real world, so everything one will experience out there has a trial period within the walls of a university, including the right to vote. SLU also gives Louisians the opportunity (at the same time, the responsibility) to choose who will represent and lead them, and

ALLISON BINAY-AN ICEBERG FACADE

as tertiary level learners, the voters are expected to be more critical: to look beyond fame to choose leaders.

Many learners shrug off the Supreme Student Council (SSC) election for a number of reasons, the prevalent one being “hindi naman sila nararamdaman”. The SSC officers of the pandemic years, however, have proven that notion wrong, bringing the collective plea of the student body for an academic ease and leniency to the school administration and be addressed properly and allowing some breathing room for learners struggling to adapt to the new normal.

Unfortunately, now that the university has reopened for face-to-face classes, the old notion of “hindi naman sila nararamdaman” has a chance of making a comeback. The question at hand is, will the candidates allow it?

The choice of becoming a student leader is a great feat in and of itself, juggling that with their academic and home duties along with their personal hobbies. Still, a problem lies in the perception of the student body seeing them fade back into the background in the way that they were, now that the world is slowly crawling back to how we knew it used to be.

With that in mind, the demand to step up is needed now more than ever. Fading into the background may just be synonymous to wasting the work started by the previous officers’ effort to be more active and felt within the walls of the university.

As such, I ask again to the candidates, will you be fragile porcelain dolls displayed under the name of the school, or the wind that fills the sails of the ship that is Saint Louis University?

For your reconsideration

Aproactive stance results in reasonable and ideal outcomes. When one cares less, then the outcome may not be promising. One way or another, there are always two sides to a coin, and the result depends on the choices we make.

With the upcoming 2022 Kataas-taasang Sanggunian ng mga Mag-aaral/Supreme Student Council (KASAMA/SSC) elections, Louisians are expected to elect leaders that best fit certain positions. However, just like almost every academic year, students are sometimes left with bags of disappointment. During times like these, it is easy to point out mistakes and shortcomings. Most of the time, those who are blamed are the ones elected to serve. While this may be valid, isn't it a chain reaction or a domino effect of sorts?

During elections, we, the voters, play a crucial role. We are the ones to elect leaders who will serve the Louisian community. Thus, it is essential for us students to truly care and be more responsible and knowledgeable enough before taking action. However, it has become a tiring routine that people tend to vote based on popularity when elections come, whether at the national, local, or university level. For instance, now that everything is almost online and candidates are allowed to campaign on social media, those with a stronger online presence might have a greater chance of winning. Social Media provides an avenue that makes it easier to market oneself. It becomes easier to paint an ideal image with just few clicks here and there. However, dwelling only on what we see online is

TAPE RECORDER

What are your expectations from the next KASAMA/SSC Officers?

I just expect them to do their work with utmost effort and dedication and that they will always commit to the truth & right whatever situation they are in.

-BA COM 3

Issues incidental to being a student are issues that the student faces that may be outside the jurisdiction of the KASAMA/ SSC but may be alleviated through projects, programs or support systems. These are issues such as financial/economic needs of the students, interpersonal and social relationships of the students, and access to outside essentials such as transportation, school supplies, meals etc. In the essence of it all, I request and challenge the next officers of the KASAMA/SSC to be more vigilant and decisive in its programs and projects, integrated with their constituents, and creative and bold in addressing these issues.

-SOL 1

I mainly expect them to do their job. They make promises about how efficient or how wonderful their time on the student government would be, but if they lack follow through, I would be disappointed. I'm not expecting the best, but if they're able to give their best, then that would be great not only for me but for the entire student body.

not always the best choice.

-BSBA 3

HANNAH ROUIE TAMAYO STARRY DUSK

On the other hand, when it comes to actual voting, some students seem to vote to say that they did their part in voting. Their reason is that they haven't felt any changes from the previous administration, so why bother to care that much? While in fact, it becomes ironic when students clamor that the Louisian Community deserves more because, in the first place, we did not do a great job discerning who we should put into position.

With these in mind, isn't it that we voters are also at fault? In the coming KASAMA/SSC elections, we must become proactive voters as we are given the voice and power to elect those who will serve our community. While knowing one's image online is great, it is not enough. As students, we have to learn to discern better. We must know how these candidates address pressing issues of our time. Moreover, it would be better to discuss with fellow students if the projects that are being promised are concrete or superficial. As students and voters, it is our job to put ourselves out there, set our standards high, and have a reason for electing this candidate.

If you have tried voting just for the sake of voting, or you have voted for someone just because you are familiar with them, think again.

In the upcoming elections, ask yourself, would you choose to play a role of just a mere passive voter, or would you push yourself to become a proactive one that strives to know these candidates and their plans for the Louisian community before electing them? After all, we all have our choices, it's just that we have to align these in the kind of outcome that we wish to have.

Mostly on the part of the administration, I wish they planned out our course better; [we only got our official teachers close to the end of the preliminaries and even our equipment isn’t available yet. This should have been handled ahead of time, perhaps when one block was already established.

-BS MMA 1

Same old same old naman na we have so many reqts needed to be passed a week or 2 before exams. In SOM kasi kahit holidays or weekends, teachers would still treat it as a school day. So that’s still difficult.

-MD 2

Apart from the covid restrictions, I hope for a better strategy in implementing the flexi learning method. On the admin side, they should assess the quality of learning of students in all courses.

-MS PSYCH

2022 KASAMA/SSC

By Allison Binay-An and

CHARLES “CHAWIE” F. VERGARA

Drawing inspiration from the years of exploitation and struggles of the Filipino masses, DASIG’s presidential bet, Charles Andrei Vergara, looks up to student-leaders like Edgar Jopson who sacrificed his life to fight for a better community. “Naniniwala ako na ang buhay na buong pusong inaalay para paglingkuran ang bayan ay isang buhay na huwaran.” Vergara also identifies himself with Praybeyt Benjamin, a symbol of strength and bravery for the gay community and is also a reflection of Vergara's principle of "collective leadership."

Aside from serving the Louisian studentry, Vergara runs for executive president in the hopes of mobilizing a mass campaign within the university and raising discourse on social issues. This, he said, would greatly contribute to the country's development especially when these social situations are discussed in school. While expressing his dire concerns for the students safety in the reimplementation of face-to-face classes, Vergara also wants to make sure that the rampant historical distortion would not affect the Louisian students.

As the red party's presidential candidate, Vergara's platforms include the implementation of "Konsultahang Luwisyano," which is conducted per school regularly to collect and address grievances of each assembly. He also seeks to form a Students and Peoples Rights and Welfare Committee to create safe spaces for Louisians, and to create an ad-hoc committee like Taskforce #BantayBalikEwkwela. For these platforms to work, Vergara believes in a collaborative effort between the students, which can increase student participation in councils and organizations.

Despite acknowledging his time management skills as a hindrance in serving the student body, he says he is trying to change this flaw. “Napagpasyahan kong tumakbo kahit man ito ay aking hinaharap dahil alam kong sa pamamagitan ng paglilingkod, magiging mas responsable ako sa aking sarili.”

REPORMA-ACS

REPORMA NG MGA MAG-AARAL NG SAN LUIS -

OF CONCERNED STUDENTS

KASAMA/SSC ELECTIONS

and Rio Jane Rabaca

DASIG

DEMOCRATIC ALLIANCE OF STUDENTS FOR INTEGRATED GOVERNANCE

"GABS" L. FRANCISCO

Aside from being driven by REPORMA-ACS’ fight for the truth within and beyond the confines of academe, presidential candidate Gabrielle Hann Riva L. Francisco also relates to Lizzie Bennett of Pride and Prejudice who she thinks is intelligent, strong and self-aware. “Gustung-gusto ko rin ang katotohanan na sa kabila ng pamumuhay ni Lizzie sa isang mundo na hindi patas para sa mga kababaihan, hindi niya hinayaang pigilan siya nito.”

There is so much that can inspire a student leader to become one. Out of all of those inspirations, Gabrielle finds the students of Saint Louis University to be what inspires her the most to delve into campus politics. For her, the unyielding spirit of each student to reach their goals fans the flames of her desire to serve.

When asked about her platforms as a KASAMA/SSC presidential candidate, Gabrielle wishes to magnify unity and movement not only

for the student leaders within the central block but also include the university's administration and the faculty of SLU to better implement the school policies. She believes that in order for her platforms to materialize, a three-step process must be undertaken: “Pundasyon, Aksyon, at Resolusyon”, in attempts to reach REPORMA ACS’ main aim: the Magna Carta of Students.

Gabrielle describes herself as a radical Catholic activist who is eager to participate in inclinations centered on the students and the masses. At the same time, Gabrielle still thinks that being a student may hinder her in serving what the student body deserves, halving her time and attention to bring about the advocacies she wishes to come to fruition. However, she believes that dividing the right tasks to her executive committee will help them conquer this wall that may impede their work as student leaders.

VICE

ISAIAH GABRIEL "Ice" S. TABU

A voice for the studentry. Ever since he stepped foot into the university, Isaiah has been struck by the desire to represent his fellow students. Turning his fears into his strengths, his courage is found in service, driving himself harder to be the leader that he needs to be. With the burning drive for service that reflected in his party of choice’s long history of student representation. According to Tabu, what sets REPORMA-ACS apart from the rest, is the will to maximize the potential of each and everyone of its members. From excelling in academics to being a servant leader, with each member becoming a beacon of inspiration for those around them.

Seasoned, Gabriel is armed with the experiences he has gained from being the KASAMA/SSC SEA Assembly governor, as well as the United Architects of the Philippines Student AuxiliarySLU president. Having carried his duties through turbulent times,

with some of the heavier concerns pushing him forward in his duty to excel for the students he is fighting for. With all this experience in mind, he plans to push for all the platforms of REPORMA-ACS, doing so in three phases that seek to maximize its effectiveness, longevity, and sustainability, ensuring it stays and becomes effective for all the students, not just during his term, but for all the subsequent years.

With the rights and welfare of the students taking the forefront of their policies Tabu will continue to fight and represent his fellow students. However he still has his own limits, his mental well-being will always be his priority. Isaiah stated, “We always need to strive to take care of our Mental Health and wellbeing.” He encourages every student to strive to care for their mental health and wellbeing above all else.

RIGHTS

FRANK CHRISTOPHER "Buzz" D. PACIO

by Mikhael Raeon Felix Ebalo

Genuine and compassionate, with a drive for service and leadership. Inspired by Atty. Maria Leonor "Leni" Gerona Robredo to do his best to serve his fellow students, amidst all the troubles that come with leadership. Equipped with a smile, and a drive for duty, Frank is the standard bearer for RIGHTS, given the task of representing the tenants and platforms of his party. What sets him and his party apart from the rest, is the three P’s that they practice. Pananaw, Panindigan, and Pamilya. With these three core values, they want to build students who are not just role models for fellow students, but at the forefront of their future workforces.

Experienced, having held more than twenty positions, in the span of four years, from a variety of levels, that focus on service to the university and the community. Christopher hopes that he can

EXECUTIVE SECRETARY

MIKAELA "Mika" E. SASSONE

by Allison Binay-an

Other than the masses who continue to fight against the monstrous waves of poverty and contradictions brought by the crises in society, Mikaela "Mika" E. Sassone is also just as inspired to be involved in student leadership by fellow student leaders and activists who chose to serve the masses and taught her the phrase "mulat, and masa ang mesias (open your eyes, the masses is the messiah)".

When asked about her platforms as a KASAMA/SSC Executive Secretary, she mentions "Konsultahang Luwisyano" per school to collect and address grievances within each Assembly, which is connected to her platform of "providing effective and inclusive basic student services through the protection and assistance for the student community's mental health, continuance of student aid programs (i.e., financial, medical, material) for students in need", and even safeguarding the students and people's rights and welfare by forming a Students and Peoples Rights and Welfare Committee to monitor, participate, and conduct movements and activities on local,

make a change, and show his fellow students the dedication and sacrifice that stems from the genuine desire to represent them, that not only him, but all his fellow student leaders embody. With all his desire for genuine inspiring leadership, he assured that he will fulfill the platforms to the best of his ability, and urged his fellow Louisians to choose the right people.

The priority of the university should be hinged on improving the quality of education and lessening the burden on students. To this extent Pacio promises that he will do his absolute best to serve his fellow students. However he recognizes that being a graduating student comes with all the burdens of academic pressure and fully-packed schedules, but promises he will manage and strive to be the voice of the studentry.

regional and national issues; unrelenting protection of academic and democratic rights. Mikaela also seeks to strengthen student solidarity via stricter coordination and communication with the University administration and the faculty, as well as ensuring the resumption of face-to-face classes is properly implemented through the creation of "Taskforce #BantayBalikEskwela".

Running for Executive Secretary, Mikaela describes herself as someone who does not fear standing up according to her principles which coincide with DASIG SLU, reiterating that she is willing to fight for what is right even if she were to do it on her own.

When asked what may hinder her from serving the student body as they see fit, she answers confidently that there is none that would do so, stressing that her decision to run for the KASAMA/ SSC elections is not weak, that she would turn her back on her promise to serve the masses, as the saying goes, "mapapagod ngunit hindi susuko."

LEI JARYLL "Lei" S. CASACLANG

by Rio Jane Rabaca

Previously a First Year Mayor of SEA and the SecretaryGeneral of the Congress of Louisians, Lei Jaryll Casaclang vies for the position of Executive Secretary under the REPORMA-ACS. She is driven by the influence of her friend Gabby, who supported her in her involvement in campus politics. Casaclang’s passion for serving the Louisian studentry prompts her to do more in giving the students the genuine student leadership they deserve.

Under the said party list, she says that “we opted to have collective specific plans of actions in order to maximize efficiency when it comes to executing our projects.” She emphasizes one of their projects－Magna Carta, wherein they hope to push for student representation in the democratic processes in the university. If given the opportunity to be elected in the position, Casaclang states that she would carry out this project by gathering and safekeeping documents and supporting data that are important in solving university grievances and problems.

As a student-leader, Casaclang sees herself in the character of Moana. She believes that she also has the drive and capacity to immerse herself with her constituents to understand them fully.

“Just like Moana, I make sure to adapt with the people in order to pinpoint and learn how to help them as well as be proactive to prevent problems from growing into further conflict.”

Regarding her flaws or limitations, she believes that her academic workload may impede her from serving her duty as a student-leader. However, she states that even though academic responsibilities may demand her time, she sees this limitation as a challenge to grow and learn.

“I believe that the studentry deserves the best student representation. Which is why guided by a strong, honest, and committed youth leadership, we will continue the legacy in serving the Louisian community.”

by Mikhael Raeon Felix Ebalo

DASIG

SECRETARY FOR FINANCE

KANE KRISTOFFER "Kane" M. TAYLOR

by Vianca Joyce Cordova

Driven by his exposure through various educational discussions and forums enjoined by his political party, Kane Kristoffer Taylor affirms the essence of amplifying the Magna Carta for students as he sees it as one of the most urgent concerns of the studentry to date.

Taylor is a junior computer science student, and he views his technological skills as a necessary tool in performing the duties of a Secretary for Finance. “It is within my nature to work efficiently and to pay attention to detail. With my technological advantage as a Computer Science student, it is safe to expect efficient, proficient, and valuable work from me as the next Secretary for Finance”.

Delving about his platforms, he reiterated that he, along with his party, aim to negotiate policies that give, secure, and protect the rights of students to a democratic educational system. To achieve such, he mentioned specific policies like: re-institutionalizing promissory notes, lobbying through the State of the Louisian Address, and representing the studentry through Magna Carta. In addition, he emphasized the need to mobilize their platforms through consistent and unwavering negotiation with the administration and

close collaboration with the different school assemblies.

According to Kane, one of the limitations that may impose a challenge on his leadership has something to do with social interaction. “Social engagement has been a limitation of mine ever since the pandemic began as I struggled to interact with new faces. Running for the position of Secretary for Finance under the Executive Committee allows me, now, to address my limitation as I have taken on the duty to involve myself and interact with the studentry”. With this, he vows to continuously strive to transform this limitation into strength for him to serve the Louisians better.

Likening his leadership abilities to Ironman, Kane said that he resonates with the hero’s smug and humorous dedication to serve and protect the people. He added that the character’s drive to serve is something that he aims to achieve when serving the studentry.

“It is my imperative duty to ensure that quality education remains affordable, without compromise, by empowering our plan to eradicate the unjustifiable increase of fees and to divert the use of funds towards the maximization of essential student facilities and services”.

SECRETARY FOR AUDIT

RAMIA YEZZA "Mimia" E. DE MESA

by Daren Angline Bueno

Growing up, Ramia Yezza E. de Mesa was told stories of her grandmother's initiative on leadership—from being a student leader to leading group organizations and even participating in the campaigns for the recent national elections. Watching her grandmother's tireless passion for serving the people, especially the youth, inspired her to vie for a position in KASAMA/SSC.

DASIG's strong advocacy for people's rights and welfare, democracy, and fearless voice is what characterized them as a party. For de Mesa, DASIG is committed to stand with the people and the students. Working together in what they call "collective leadership" is their strategy for solving difficulties and carrying out tasks as effectively as possible. This is the assurance she gives the Louisians that their plans will be put to action.

De Mesa takes being a first-year BA Communication student to be her edge in running for the position. According to her, she is in a unique position to serve due to her fresh and unbiased perspective that allows her to have a down-to-earth approach. "I know the student experience… I am them, and they are me; thus, I will be able to see problems at eye level and address

them appropriately," she says. She further admits to struggling with time management between schoolwork and extracurriculars. However, she is confident that her passion for serving, enthusiasm for making meaningful connections with the Louisian students, and teamwork within the student council will fuel her drive and focus for the studentry despite challenges.

According to de Mesa, as a DASIG SLU Audit candidate, their collective plan of action includes: "Konsultahang Luwisyano", student aid programs, strengthening student unity and solidarity with other sectors through stricter coordination and communication with the University administration, safeguarding students and peoples rights and welfare, and Taskforce #BantayBalikEskwela.

“Hindi natin ikakaila na mahirap ang mag silbi sa masa at sa bayan. Napakalaking responsibilidad at mga panganib ang dala neto. Kung madaming takot kumilos, pano natin maasam ang pagbabago?

Para sa lubog, lapat, at walang kompromisong konseho. TAKDER, Luwisyano!”

MARELLA HELENA "Marella" P. BARTOLOME

by Angely Elaine Acosta

As a campus leader, Marella Helena P. Bartolome pursued leadership and campus politics despite her lack of experience and knowledge because of Dhenz Lester Delos Santos, former Secretary for Audit and SAMCIS governor, who motivated, trained, and believed in her throughout her journey as a student leader. The unending support and guidance from Delos Santos encouraged Bartolome to serve the whole Louisian community. He was her inspiration for his passion and dedication in service towards the studentry have been visible in his actions.

For Bartolome, the edge REPORMA-ACS holds is the twodecade empowerment of student leadership through values of strength, honesty, and commitment. Employing transformative leadership, they provided service and support to different communities through outreach advocacies such as Sinagtala Initiative. Additionally, the bond and relationship among the party's alums, advisers, and members persistently grows and develops into one family.

Running for Secretary for Audit, Bartolome prides herself as BS Accountancy 4 student with the expertise and experience to have professional skepticism and judgment with monetary transactions. Also, she had been part of the KASAMA/SSC SAMCIS Assembly communicating liquidation and auditor's reports with the project heads and council. She believes she has a passion for service and skills as an accountancy student.

When asked about the most urgent concern of SLU students, she stresses unjustifiable tuition fee increases amid the pandemic, especially with the progressing inflation. She stated, " It is still hard for us to adequately finance all our necessities and commodities."

In response to the Louisian studentry's concern, she aspires to improve student representation and outlay access through Magna Carta. With Magna Carta, they aim to release expenditures and disbursements through institutionalized audited reports and statements promoting transparency and accountability.

RENZ EMIR "RENZ" M. PABLO

by Katherine Maire Laguna

Fueled by his desire to stand up and amplify the voices of his fellow Louisians, Renz stands as a beacon in embodying a genuine representation of the studentry. Having been in the student council since freshman year, his experience allowed him to observe the grassroots of the current political climate within the university and how it affected the student body.

As a candidate of DASIG SLU Secretary for Business Affairs and inspired by Congressman Raoul Manuel, the representative of Kabataan partylist, he aspires to pursue the advancement of students’ and people’s rights and welfare through the party list’s collective platforms. One project in particular—“Konsultahang Luwisyano”, aims to be conducted regularly per school to collect and address grievances or provide assistance to each assembly if needed. He sees the call for a genuine academic break and ease as one of the urgent concerns that

must be addressed by the KASAMA/SSC. He believes that the mental health of the students should never be compromised and that the democratic rights of the students must always be upheld. This includes academic freedom, gender sensitivity, inclusivity, and health safety.

Moreover, he believes that the council is not just a platform for voices, but also an opportunity to serve.

Despite recognizing that one has inevitable flaws and limitations, he does not recognize these as an impediment in carrying out his duties.

“The calls and plights of the student body and the masses are worth centuries of sacrifice and dedication,” he added.

“As a youth leader, I stand up, together with the masses, to revolutionize a systemic change that will embody the aspirations of the Filipino people,”

KAMIYA RAYA "Miya" W. SICNAWA

by Vianca Joyce Cordova

Fuelled by her passion in serving the Louisian studentry through “collective leadership”, Kamiya Raya Sicnawa attests how the prowess of collaborative and participative service can be a tool in efficiently carrying out their platforms for the benefit of the student body.

Sicnawa is a 4th year student nurse and formerly served in the Congress of the Louisians and Central Committee. She firmly believes that these experiences helped her acquire the necessary knowledge regarding democratic processes within the KASAMA-SSC, which can be a guiding path in coordinating activities of various school assemblies and other business affairs. Kamiya mentioned, “Being a student nurse also contributed significantly to my work ethic, efficiency, and assertiveness which I think is my edge over other candidates''.

When asked about her platforms, she said that their slate would like to move away from the traditional way of having an individual platform per candidate of the Executive Committee. Sicnawa added, “Instead of individually formulating and conducting projects per position/office, exercising collective action towards a project would be

more sophisticated and efficient”. One of the specific plans that she mentioned is the State of the Louisian Address. According to Kamiya, this project will enable the council to gather data and collate grievances of the students, which will be lobbied to the administration. Vying for the position of Secretary for business affairs, she then ensured that the project will collaborate with other school organizations to facilitate the lobbying of concerns.

Kamiya sees her impatience when things do not go as scheduled as one of the barriers that may impede in the performance of her duty as a leader. However, she said that she had learned to adjust schedules, and accommodate changes and workloads more flexibly to address this problem.

Comparing herself to the character of Mufasa in the Lion King, she stated that she likewise continues to uphold and nurture her ability to lead with compassion, strength and integrity and make decisions in the best interests of the student body.

JAN POL BIEN "Jp" M. COMIA

by Piyaselli Wijayawickrama

Guided by the truth, reason, and fairness, Jan Pol Comia aspires to become just in understanding every difficult situation bestowed upon him as he roots his action according to his principles.

Inspired by the resounding positions of the student power such as the KASAMA/SSC, and the late lumad teacher and human rights defender, Chad Booc, Comia believes that being involved in the campus politics is one of the key factors to further enhance the awareness of the Louisian community.

Although a rookie in the field of campus politics as it is his first race, Comia believes that his experiences as a youth activist shed light and broadened his perspectives on the needs of the studentry. Firmly standing on his ground, Jan Pol Comia expressed that he did not run for the student body as a candidate just to go back on his promise to serve the studentry. Thus, he is equipped with platforms related to the betterment

of school governance such as the enhancement of the inclusive basic student services, strengthening student unity and solidarity with the sectors of the university administration, the monitoring of the students’ rights and welfares amidst participaticipating in local movements and activities related to the nation’s issues.

Quoting Ivy Aguas, the phenomenal character portrayed by Maja Salvador in the Philippine series, “Wild Flower”, Comia believes that just like gold, he is indestructible. Which is why he declared that like Ivy Aguas, no amount of discouragement or intimidation will hinder him from fighting for what he believes is right.

No matter what the results may unfold this upcoming elections, Jan Pol Comia assures the studentry that he will continuously serve himself as an aid for the Louisian community alongside DASIG-SLU in the road towards achieving quality education.

JUSTIN ANDREI "Chan" L. CHAN

by Nadz Aldrin Benico

Inspired by his friend in joining campus politics whom he said embodies traits that one should find in a leader, Justin Andrei Chan is not new in holding a position in the body. With his strong desire to serve, he has already held positions in the SNS assembly which he believes put him in the stature of a Louisian student-leader.

Aside from that, he also has experience in the customer service industry as a working student which he states has honed his talents and skills which is vital for the position that he is vying for.

According to Justin, he might not have a personal platform given that the slate he belongs to has a unified plan of action, he will actively push to advance their goal of reforming the system–Pundasyon, Aksyon, Resolusyon by being the medium between the students and the student council. He also added that through their pro-student-geared plans, students’ voices will be further amplified and empowered. But, beyond that, he asserted that as the next Secretary

for Public Relations, a strengthened and empowered link between the students and the KASAMA/SSC is his priority.

When asked for any flaws and limitations, Chan recognizes that his duty as a hospital intern being a 4th year Medical Laboratory Science student might limit him as it demands time, attention, and skill from him at all times. But, driven to help and dedicated to render service, he asserted that this will not stop him from doing his duty to the student body. “My circumstances only challenge, if not motivate, me to become better as an individual, as a student leader, and as a future healthcare worker”, he said. Comparing himself to Seo Dal Mi from Start Up, he mentioned that he is determined to face all the challenges that will come his way.

“To continue on despite the odds and to even go as far as accepting defeat is something that I embody not only as a leader but also as an individual.”

OF CAMPUS POLITICS

Founded in 2017, the Democratic Alliance of Students for Integrated Governance (DASIG) was established by former members of REPORMA-ACS, another student organization at Saint Louis University. Hence, it is the youngest organization joining the 2022 KASAMA/SSC elections.

DASIG

Democratic Alliance of Students for Integrated Governance by Angely Elaine Acosta

During its first year, DASIG furthered its "cultural revolution" among the Louisian community for the interest and welfare of the studentry. Until today, DASIG's three principles differ from other political organizations: Collective Leadership, Leader by Example, and Mutual Respect.

Elaborating on their principles, they challenge the bureaucracy by encouraging the critical involvement of individuals, they impart responsibility by setting an example of a good form of leadership and advocacy in and out of the university, and they accept diverse suggestions and comments with analytical judgment to progress as a member and organization.

Furthermore, DASIG prides itself in its contribution to standing for students' and people's rights and welfare, with or without positions. It also fights for the struggles of the Filipino people and fosters social and national development. And in times of significant obstacles, it will represent the student body and the Cordillera region in mobilizing programs, reforms, and campaigns.

Today, DASIG is presenting #TakderLuwisyano for a 5-point program of our Council: (1) Integrated and Relevant Governance, (2) Basic Student Service (3) Student Unity and Solidarity with other Sectors (4) Students' and People's Rights and Welfare and (5) Safe Resumption of Classes.

Established in 2003, REPORMA-ACS stands as the longest-running partylist for KASAMA/SSC elections. With almost 2 decades of experience, REPORMA-ACS stands by its iron-clad values of strength, forthright, and commitment as student leaders with the resolve to not only reform the system within the walls of Saint Louis University, but to also provide service and support to the greater community to which SLU is a part of.

REPORMA-ACS aims to bring together both student leaders and central offices, including the university administration and the faculty, to become more in sync in institutionalizing the policies of Saint Louis University. To do that, the party list emphasizes on their 3-step phase of Pundasiyon, Aksyon, Resolusyon (Foundation, Action, and Resolution) to ensure that their platforms centered on system re are instated. Foundation covers the gathering of data and other pertinent information that would help to properly lobby the grievances of the offices or groups concerned. Action is taking action itself, collating said information into appropriate and comprehensive reports and documentations while working closely with the administration or faculty in charge (i.e., Internal Affairs officer for auditing concerns), followed by the Resolution which, after deliberating the best course of action, is put into action in the school system and shall be closely monitored to ensure its proper implementation. All of these are arranged with the goal of advocating better for better representation of all sides of the university (studentry, administration, faculty) through the Magna Carta.

As a party of comprised of strong, honest, and committed leaders, REPORMA-ACS will continue to serve the masses, both for the studentry and the community. Should they be elected or not, as REPORMA-ACS, their objectives will always be centered in reformation.

REPORMA -ACS

Partido Reporma ng mga Magaaral ng San Luis - Alliance of Concerned Students

by Allison Binay-an

RIGHTS

A student government is required to be responsible and intelligent, highlighting transparency and the rights of the studentry, and the RIGHTS party list upholds exactly that. As their name suggests, the Responsible and Intelligent Governance Highlighting Transparency and Studentry, otherwise known as RIGHTS, started off with their main advocacies prioritizing that of student rights. Founded in 2008, RIGHTS has since been pro-students positioned in the center-left of the political spectrum which they exhibit in their plans of ensuring the greater good of the studentry and community.

The RIGHTS party list prides in the three points that molds their values as prostudent leaders: their Pananaw (point of view) that covers their approach regarding a situation such as the consideration of all possible loopholes, compromises, or backfires that may affect the implementation of their platforms; Paninindigan (stand), in affirming their goal of standing for student rights and not going back on their promises; and Pamilya (family), instilling care as found families by helping each other grow as competent and positive individuals that will someday lead their fellow students.

by Allison Binay-an

The general plan of action of RIGHTS include (1) Internal Enhancement and Creating a Legacy of Good Governance (2) External Maximization and Building Bridges - Local and National (3) Strengthening Relations with the Administration (4) Academic Proactivity and Consolidating Students’ Rights and Welfare and (5) Extra-Curricular Dynamism.

Although RIGHTS were only able to bring forward one candidate for the election of the executive committee, the party list still wishes to fulfill and will fight for the realization of the aforementioned plan of actions above. With RIGHTS, no student shall be left behind.

Dilaw, Pula't Bughaw: Tatlong kulay, iisang sigaw