With six Executive Board posts available, candidates for the Far Eastern University Central Student Organization faced each other in a series of discourse on their special plans of action and stances on various issues during the #FEUElections2025 Grand Debate at the Engineering Building Mini Auditorium last April 30.

Round 1

The candidates were given three minutes to give a speech, presenting their special plans of actions as well as their vows as aspiring electees. The opposing candidate may interpellate twice for 30 seconds each, which should be answered by the candidate within a minute.

Kadiwa Student Coalition Public Relations Officer Krizzy Aldrienne Sotes

“Matapang sa pagkilos, malikhain sa idea, at ang puso [ay] may malasakit, ‘yan pa po bilang isang student-leader. Mabuhay, ako po si Krizzy Aldrienne Julian Sotes, an incoming second year Tourism Management student at buong tapang na humaharap bilang ang inyong susunod na FEUCSO Press Relations Officer [P.R.O.] sa ilalim ng Kadiwa Student Coalition. Simula’t sibol pa lang, natural na po sa akin ang pagiging bahagi ng mga student organizations, mula Girl Scouts of the Philippines, Supreme Student Governments, hanggang ITHM Student Council at FEU SAGA. Dahil po dito, natutunan ko na ang tunay na liderato ay hindi lang po pabasta pamumuno, kundi ang liderato na nakikinig, kumikilos, at nagsisilbing para sa kapuwa kong estudyante.

Opo, freshman pa lang po ako, pero hindi po ito ba… basehan ng aking pagiging liderato na may pusong may tunay na malasakit. Dahil ang pagmamalasakit po ay ang pag-unawa, at ang pag-unawa ko ay isang aspeto ng respeto. Isinusulong ko po ang ‘Tams Beyond Faith,’ kung saan ito po ay isang hakbang na kung saan magkakaroon tayo ng isang komportableng espasyo para sa pagninilay at paggalang po sa iba't ibang paniniwala natin dito sa ating Pamantasan, dahil bilang isang bakla na nakaranas na po ng panghuhusga… naniniwala po ako sa kahalagahan ng respeto sa ating pagkakaiba, at ngayon bitbit ko po ang puso ng isang heroinang maganda, magaling at matalino.

Ako po si Krizzy Aldrienne Sotes, your 90th FEUSCO Press Relations Officer, kasama ang Kadiwa Student Coalition. Tamaraws, sabay-sabay po natin iaangat ang bawat boses ninyo. Dahil sa FEUCSO, bilang ang bawat isa."

Question: In your project '[Know Your] FEUndamentals’ where packaging key policies into more understandable formats like infographics and videos can increase awareness. But since it relies heavily on social media reach, and given that some official postings on FEUCSO already struggle with engagement, how do you plan to measure these materials are not only seen but are retained and understood by the students? (Interpellated by Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union Public Relations Officer Sean Michael Paquita)

“So thank you for that question po ‘no. I am Krizzy Sotes, your FEUCSO P.R.O. under the banner of Kadiwa Student Coalition. So regarding po with the engagement of Know Your FEUndamentals, the main rationale po kasi—ng itong project ko na ito is to make the student handbook more engaging to the student body po, ‘no. So regarding with the engagement po, dito po natin… regarding with the engagement, isasakto po natin within the timeline kung saan mas kakailanganin po ito ng students wherein sa—by start of the school year po, para this Know Your FEUndamentals will help most especially those freshies po na are not familiar with the student handbook. So that’s all, thank you.”

Follow-up question: Since I am asking for mechanism po, since given the fact that you are running for the position of P.R.O., wherein our job is to provide information and transparency to the students that they deserve. However, in your recent publication of your specific plan of actions, you did not provide any mechanism, po para dito. So firstly, ano po 'yung mechanisms dito for your projects, and how can you make sure that you will do your job with being transparent to the students? (Interpellated by Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union Public Relations Officer Sean Michael Paquita)

“Again, thank you so much for that follow-up question. So regarding naman po with the transparency and the credibility of Know your FEUndamentals po, ‘no, I do understand the issue wherein we have not provided the specific mechanisms of our projects, but regarding this, with Know your FEUndamentals po, dito po—gagawa po tayo dito ng—where we’ll reiterate po natin ang student handbook into more engaging post po in the FEUCSO’s official pages and… of course, before publishing these contents po of the student handbook, this will most—this will undergo… undergo process po ‘no, between all the departments po to make sure that these informations that we are going [to] be publishing is credible po for the student body. That’s all, thank you.”

Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union Public Relations Officer Sean Michael Paquita

“30.5 percent. Tatlumpu’t kalahating porsiyento lamang po ang bumoto nung nakaraang taon. Nakakalungkot, nakakadismaya pero Tamaraws, tandaan ninyo. Sa bawat porsiyento ng hindi bumoto, lahat ‘yon may dinadalang kuwento—working student na madalas ay pagod, scholar na lumalaban araw-araw, freshman na nangangarap, graduating, irregular, transferee. Lahat ‘yan may laban. Hindi po sila tahimik. Hindi sila—sa walang—hindi sila walang pakialam. Baka hindi lang natin sila nadadala o naaabot ng tamang impormasyon.

Kaya ngayon, oras na para sila’y muling mapakinggan, marinig, at maipaglaban. Dahil sa FEU, walang boses ang mahina. Walang kuwento ang isasantabi. Kaya ang hatid ko sa inyo ang—ang tunay na usapan. Project ‘Tamaraw Sa Tamaraw,’ an information—an action-driven information agenda. Updating na ang FEUCSO chatbots. Mabilis, malinaw, at laging nandiyan para sa inyo. Isang matibay na grievance system online at onsite na kung saan ang boses niyo, hindi ko lamang pakikinggan—ito ay aking tutugunan. Isang tunay na Public Relations Department. Impormasyon—tulayan ng impormasyon mula administrasyon, FEUCSO, at sa bawat Tamaraw. Hindi po ito panaginip. Nasimulan na po natin ang kuwento ng bawat estudyante as your current FEUCSO Associate Director for Marketing and Content Department. At ngayon, oras na para itodo ang laban.

As a Communication student, bitbit po natin ang mantrang ‘May alam, may pakialam.’ Ito po ang nalalaman ko, at ito po ang papakialaman ko. Ako ang kikilos, ako ang lalaban, at ako ang magbibitbit ng boses niyo sa sentro. Sean Michael 'Kiel' Paquita; ready to lead, ready to fight, ready to rise as your FEUCSO P.R.O.”

Question: Regarding po sa 'Tamaraw Sa Tamaraw,' there’s already a Marketing and Content Department in place po, ‘no, in FEUCSO. Wouldn’t be creating another body with similar responsibilities be redundant, if not confusing, especially without stream—streamlining the existing structure? (Interpellated by Kadiwa Student Coalition Public Relations Officer Krizzy Aldrienne Sotes)

“Ayon, if nabasa niyo po ang mekanismo nito, hindi po—magkaiba po ang trabaho ng Marketing and Content Department sa Public Relations Department. Sa Marketing and Content Department, ang trabaho po namin dito ay gagawa kami—gagawa kami ng mga contents kung pa’no natin ima-market ang FEUCSO. Sa Public Relations Department po, grievance-centered po tayo dito. Magkakaroon tayo—magkakaro’n po tayo ng mga tao na kung saan sila ang naka-focus na mag-reply o mag-respond sa mga concerns online at onsite. Isa pa po dito ay magkakaroon pa po tayo ng onsite response system. Kung saan hindi lang po tayo nararamdaman online, kung hindi mararamdaman din po onsite. At isa pa po dito ay ang ‘KumusTam.’ Maipaparamdam po natin sa bawat estudyante na kasama po kayo sa decision-making ng FEUCSO.”

Follow-up question: What happens if there is a failure in the communication channel? Like for example, the technical issue, there are miscommunications, etc. Is there a backup or a contingency plan to ensure that the issues are resolved quickly and that in the students are not being left without a way to reach out for help? (Interpellated by Kadiwa Student Coalition Public Relations Officer Krizzy Aldrienne Sotes)

“Ayan. If nabasa niyo po ulit ang aking mekanismo, meron po tayong feedback system, hindi lamang po sa FEUCSO chatbots, hindi lamang po sa Public Relations Department, pero kasama niyo rin po ating KumusTam na kung saan malalaman natin dito na every time na may magkakaro’n ng problema sa bawat sistema ng ating proyekto, magkakaroon po tayo ng reassessment kung saan po tayo nagkamali at kung nagkaroon po tayo ng mali, ito po ang uunahin nating ayusin.

At, to give transparency to the students, we have a project from our president, Raezon Gonzales, na kung saan magkakaroon po tayo ng Open Book Policy, na kung saan makikita niyo ho dito ang progress ng ating specific plan of action para malaman ng bawat Tamaraw kung nagagawa po ba talaga namin ng aming mga trabaho.”

Kadiwa Student Coalition Auditor Margarette Antoinette Macatangay

“Ang babae sa inyong harapan ay isang batang FEUCSO. From my very first year in FEU, I already am a FEUCSO [member]. Being a member of the pioneer batch of the Data Analytics Department to becoming its current director, I am proud to say that FEUCSO has always been my home.

Ako si Margarette Macatangay, an incoming fourth-year BS Accountancy student from the banner of the Kadiwa Student Coalition, your 90th FEUCSO Auditor. Sa tatlong taon natin sa Data Analytics Department, alam na natin na bilang ang bawat sagot ng bawat estudyante sa bawat survey na nilalabas natin. From data-driven initiatives, we aim to foster a community that puts the safety of the students first.

With ‘Project SHIELD,’ starting from [protocol proposals] for specific calamities, we aim to foster a community [in order] to lessen the hazards or the threats that these calamities offer to the students. Hindi lamang sapat na ine-ensure natin ‘yung quality of service. Dapat ine-ensure din natin na ang bawat estudyante ay may oportunidad para mag-voice out at para makilahok sa process of change—sa process ng pag-progress natin sa students. Ngayong taon, bilang ang bawat isa. At dahil bilang ang bawat isa, we advocate for a leadership that continues to listen and act for every Tamaraw. Dahil bilang ang bawat isa, we should make every student count. As student-leaders, we carry with us the principles and core values that we have whenever we act for our community.

And here, and today, I am here to continue serving the genuine leadership that everyone deserves. I am here to offer the genuine leadership that, together, we can make every student count. From offering this genuine leadership, we continue to give off the leadership that the students deserve by not destroying or throwing unnecessary hate towards others. Because true student leadership is being with the students and being for the students regardless of their identity. Tamaraws, ngayong taon, bilang ang bawat isa. Mula sa pangangailangan, mula sa hinaing—hanggang sa kaligtasan, hayaan niyong… Muli ako si Margarette Macatangay, your 90th FEUCSO Auditor.”

Question: Hi, Marga. So in one of your projects, ‘Tam PERS,’ it acts as an accountability mechanism, giving a voice in evaluating your organization. But once feedback reveals consistent underperformance, what concrete authority or process does the central interest organization [have]? Is there [an] escalation protocol or is it left to the individual for discretion? (Interpellated by Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union Auditor Kemuel Malachi Mabalot)

“Ayan. Thank you very much for that question, first of all, ‘no. Once more, I am Margarette Macatangay, your Kadiwa Central Student Organization Auditor. And with that, I would further explain the mechanism of ‘Tam PERS.’

So, basically in ‘Tam PERS,’ hati siya sa two phases kasi, ‘yung first phase meron tayong score cards na iki-keep ng mga auditors natin per organization ng FEU in which we will track the progress ng mga sinet na plans of action from the very start. Like, ito ‘yung internal natin na pagtse-check sa mga students. And other from that, ‘yung stakeholders natin na ‘yung 30 percent ng overall grade from the specific organization [will] come from the student. But to answer the question, evaluation committee kasi—it’s an independent body that [is] coordinated sa specific offices natin. So basically, hindi lang si FEUCSO ‘yung may power. So kung ano man ‘yung gagawin natin sa mga underperforming, it will also be coordinated with offices.”

Follow-up question: So just a follow-up, if the Central [Student] Organization has no real mandate to act right on initiating leadership or change via impeachment process, what makes this platform more than a satisfactory survey? (Interpellated by Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union Auditor Kemuel Malachi Mabalot)

“Ayan, so basically ang gusto natin i-assess dito [ay] ‘yung overall performance ng organizations natin. May mandate si FEUCSO [kasi sa FEUCSO] manggagaling ‘yung independent body na gagawa ng ating evaluation. This will be coordinated with other offices as well. Kaya siya magiging independent kasi ibang members ng FEUCSO and from other offices as well. So in terms of underperforming, kung bakit [hindi impeachment ‘yung ginagawang process], I believe that impeachment is a different topic na kasi. It is an initiative of the specific executive board officer ng specific organization to impeach someone or to make someone undergo a process. What we aim in ‘Tam PERS’ is to evaluate the overall performance of each organization with authority given and with collaborations with different offices here in FEU.”

Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union Auditor Kemuel Malachi Mabalot

“Sa dalawang taon kong paninilbihan para sa bayan kong minimithi, mas naunawaan ko ang esensya ng pagkakaroon ng isang epektibong sistema. Sa isang institusyong nagsisilbi para sa lahat, karapatan niyo ang serbisyong sapat at nararapat—big or small. Bilang dating treasurer at kasalukuyang presidente ng FEU Biological Science Society, nakita ko kung paano ang bawat maliit na problema ay kayang gawan ng malaking solusyon.

Ngayon, bilang inyong FEUCSO Auditor, dala-dala ko kasama ang mas malawak na pananagutan na para naman sa buong Tamaraw community. Ako si Kemuel Malachi Mabalot, an incoming fourth-year Biology student, the associate director ng pioneering Audit Department sa IAS Student Council. Bahagi na ng Sentral na Organisasyon sa Audit Department. Bitbit ang paninindigan na gawing makabuluhan ang bawat pangako, bawat serbisyo, at bawat hakbang para sa bawat Tamaraw.

Campus na maka-estudyante, handog ko sa inyo ang ‘Project TAMS’ o ‘Transparency, Accountability, and Monitoring Services.’ Ating sisiguraduhin na lahat ng school services ay kalidad batay sa boses at karanasan ng bawat estudyante. Sisiguraduhin ng ‘Project TAMS’ na walang estudyanteng maiiwan batay sa kanilang pinagdaanan. Isa pa sa aking proyekto ay ang ‘TAMBoost,’ isang programang naglalayon na tulungan ang mga student organizations sa paghawak at pagsuri ng kanilang pondo. Sisiguraduhin ng ‘TAMBoost’ na magkakaroon tayo ng isang centralized at standardized na pamamaraan ng pagsuri sa mga organizations dito sa FEU. Sama-sama nating sisiguraduhin na ang bawat pasilidad, may kalidad. Bawat estudyante, may pagkalinga.

I rise with the Bio community, now, Tamaraws, I am more than ready to rise with you all. I am Kemuel Malachi Mabalot, sisiguraduhing all is well, ready to rise as your FEUCSO Auditor.

Question: So my question will be regarding TAMBoost. So firstly, given that there is an existing program for student-leaders and their respective positions, their similar aims to enhance financial documentation and reporting the capacity-building initiatives, how will TAMBoost avoid becoming redundant and counterproductive in relation to the existing program? (Interpellated by Kadiwa Student Coalition Auditor Margarette Antoinette Macatangay)

“So, thank you for that question. As part of the pioneering Audit Department ng IAS Student Council, nag-start kami from the very scratch. And I do believe that TAMBoost is not redundant because it is the FEUCSO’s way of reaching out to our student organizations for them to have a more standardized way in auditing things, in crafting liquidation reports, and such. At naniniwala rin naman ako na walang redundant sa mga ating proyekto dahil ito ay ang isang pamamaraan ng Sentral na Organisasyon upang makasama ang bawat Academic Organization, Institute checklist—[Student] Council, and Uni-wide organization.”

Follow-up question: Ayan, thank you for that answer. For my last follow-up question, what is the timeline for implementing TAMBoost and how do we ensure that the program can be rolled out effectively across all student organizations without delays or complications? (Interpellated by Kadiwa Student Coalition Auditor Margarette Antoinette Macatangay)

“Okay, for the timeline of TAMBoost, gagawin natin ‘to sa first semester, kasi it’s really important na sa—from the very beginning palang ay well-informed na ang ating auditors and treasurers sa pag-craft ng liquidation reports at sa pag-audit nito. And at the same time, based naman from the phase one of my project is magkakaroon tayo ng modular way of learning, and at the same time meron kasi tayong audit manual. Magkakaroon tayo ng audit manual na ibibigay natin sa bawat organisasyon para mayroon na silang batayan kung paano nila ito gagawin.”

Kadiwa Student Coalition Treasurer Reginalois Alessandra De Guzman

“Dala ko ang bawat resibo ng aking pagkakakilanlan. Ito ang halaga ng bawat puyat, bawat papel, at bawat pangarap na binabayaran natin.

This is my story, this is a story that includes our initiatives—this is a story where every leader, no matter how far, we will include them. I am Reginalois De Guzman, your next FEUCSO Treasurer. I read the comments, and I know that I am not the most well known name. I know that I am not the most well known candidate but because of this, I will prove them wrong.

With this, I’ll show to you my experience as a Senior High School ABM strand Treasurer to do more and provide more for our community because leadership is never about your year level, it is about what you fight for and who you fight for, and I choose to fight for every Tamaraw dahil bilang ang bawat isa. I know that I am a first year student, I know this can raise eyebrows but with this, I will show to you with my project, ‘PIYUsisain Natin,’ this is a reassessment of our miscellaneous fees based on individual degree programs. With this, this shows you that I am not here because I want to be famous, I want to serve my fellow community.

With this, I am Reginalois De Guzman, your next 90th FEUCSO Treasurer.’

Question: So my question is, regarding your project, are you aware of CHED Memorandum no. 14? As per CHED Memorandum 14, consultations are a legal prerequisite. Given this, how does your project meaningfully differ from the mandated responsibility of the Office of the Treasurer in coordination with student representatives and administration? (Interpellated by Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union Treasurer Katherine Nicolas)

“Thank you for that question. I will explain to you the mechanics of my project PIYUsisiain Natin. PIYUsisain Natin, this is a project implemented by our term from the first [semester] itself. So, importante dito sa project na ‘to, ay collaborative process with the Academic Organizations and concerned offices in order to determine what specific breakdown of miscellaneous fees need to be addressed. This is a project based on individual degree programs. We have to provide an alignment and consultation with these Academic Organizations and the concerned offices to determine what can be done, especially with the implementation of the Independent Learning [Week] and the announcement that FEU will not have a tuition fee increase. That is why the goal of PIYUsisain [Natin] is to help our students maximize the miscellaneous fees paid here in FEU. Thank you.”

Follow-up question: I appreciate now that anyway, your proposal to create a centralized sponsorship directory assumes that access is a main barrier from securing partnerships, but many organizations already customize their approach based on their identity, goal, and networks. How do your directory support—not limit—these unique strategies especially when effective sponsors often rely on personal brands? (Interpellated by Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union Treasurer Katherine Nicolas)

“Importanteng magkaroon ng collaboration with the student organizations, especially the Uni-wide organizations, because with this collaboration, magkakaroon tayo ng assessment and a meeting on how we can provide for these organizations. Because the ‘TamLink,’ this is a project because student organizations and Uni-wide organizations find it difficult to find sponsorships especially for events. With TamLink, I will give you with the FEUCSO Kadiwa, this will help be an avenue for them to find sponsorships in a way na based siya on a category, based on what they need for their events and organization.”

Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union Treasurer Katherine Nicolas

“Kakampi ng student-owned business, nakasama niyo na sa panawagan against tuition fee increase, at kaakibat ng masa sa bawat adbokasiya bilang isang lider-aktibista. Kaya ilaban natin, isulong natin, ang isang lideratong kaya kang ipaglaban at kaya mong sandalan. Ako po si Katherine Nicolas, incoming third-year Political Science student, kakampi ng sektor ng student-owned businesses bilang associate director ng FEU Entrepreneurship Club, at dalawang taon niyo nang kasama sa FEUCSO. And now, I am ready to rise as your 90th FEUCSO Treasurer.

As a PolSci student, I was taught to question systems. Kasama na dito ang matrikulang ibinabayad natin dahil nauunawaan ko po na ang pagiging treasurer ay hindi lamang simpleng pangangasiwa ng pondo, kasama nito ay pagbitbit ng kampanya laban sa pagtaas ng matrikula, pati na rin ang pagbibigay oportunidad sa bawat Tamaraw. Kaya inihahandog ko po sa inyo ang aking proyektong ‘TamBigay.’ Sa TamBigay agenda, una, i-a-update natin ang financial manual upang magkaroon ng mas matibay na pamama—pamamahala ng pondo. Pangalawa ay magkakaroon po tayo ng mas matibay na alokasyon ng pondo upang magkaroon ng suporta sa bawat ambisyon at kakayahan ng bawat Tamaraw. At pangatlo, susuriin natin ang mga fees na binabayad natin na hindi naman natin nama-maximize, lalo na ngayong may Independent Learning Week. As a treasurer, I will make sure that every peso benefits us all. Kaya naman, we TamaRise together for every peso that we pay.

Muli, ako si Katherine Nicolas, kasama niyo na, kakampi at kaakibat, at ako ang inyong susunod na FEUCSO Treasurer.”

Question: Hello, so my question is how will you ensure that the partnership fund remains sufficiently stocked to respond to emergencies without depleting other planned initiatives or creating deficits in the overall FEUCSO budget? (Interpellated by Kadiwa Student Coalition Treasurer Reginalois Alessandra De Guzman)

“To answer your question, that is the main point of the partnership funds, para hindi tayo magkaroon ng unexpected deficits or unexpected changes sa budget ni FEUCSO. Kaya una pa lang, aalamin at uusisain na natin ‘yung mga proyekto na gagawin natin para alam natin kung magkano ba 'yung ia-allocate natin at kung paano ba natin mapapanatiling sufficient ang funds ni FEUCSO.”

Follow-up question: So for my follow-up question, what specific guidelines will be in place to distinguish urgent and less urgent requests particularly when funds are limited? (Interpellated by Kadiwa Student Coalition Treasurer Reginalois Alessandra De Guzman)

“To answer your question again, magkakaroon po tayo ng draft ng specific guidelines natin kagaya na lamang ng documents na ipapasa nila, kung saan ba nila gagana—gagamitin ‘yung pondo, kung ano ba 'yung kailangan nila, kung saan nila dadahilan, at ‘yung mga dokumento na nagpapatunay na ‘yung paggagamitan nila ay talagang kinakailangan. At siyempre, itong mga guidelines na ‘to ay ico-consult din natin sa concerned offices.”

Kadiwa Student Coalition Secretary Christian James Nambatac

“We may have worked behind-the-scenes. Working, making things happen quietly, but consistently for every student who needed us. Maayong adlaw, mga Tamaraws.

Ako, si Christian James 'Cham' Nambatac, incoming fourth-year Political Science student, tumatakbo bilang inyong susunod na FEUCSO Secretary. Internal operation, initiatives, araw gabi, andiyan tayo sa FEUCSO. Hindi nawala at hinding hindi mawawala. Sa aking dalawang taong pagseserbisyo sa Tamaraw community, bilang Outstanding Executive Committee ng Internal at Disciplinary Affairs Department, Outstanding Assistant Head ng Disciplinary Affairs Division, at ngayon, kasalukuyang top-one director and overall member ng organisasyon. Malinaw, na hindi na kailangang iakyat dahil parte na po tayo ng organisasyong ating tinatakbuhan. At kayo rin, magiging parte rin kayo sa bawat proyekto na aming dala, mapa-Bisaya, Ilokano, o Waray.

Kasama kayo sa ‘TAMplifying Diversity,’ in strengthening our sense of community, allowing our students to build a home away from their home. Dahil panahon na para panguhanan ng Sentral na Organisasyon ang isang initiatibong magbibigay-daan para tayo’y mas maging konektado pa, dahil minsan ko na ring naramdaman ko na hindi ako bilang. At ngayong ika-90 taon ng Sentral na Organisasyon, sisigaraduhin kong ikaw, kayo, tayo ay bilang. Tams, isasama at sasamahan ko kayo sa bawat desisyon at galaw ng organisasyon. Panahon na para bilang ang bawat isa.

Muli, ako si Christian James Nambatac, ang inyong susunod na FEUCSO Secretary.”

Question: Good Afternoon. Your diversity initiative, which is TAMplifying Diversity, highlights the value of cultural gatherings as an avenue to connect students. It’s a meaningful intention edged on an event's based management. How do you envision support systems that allow these connections to last beyond the event? Because without clear continuity mechanisms, won’t this project only offer moments and not momentum? (Interpellated by Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union Secretary Ivy Bisnar)

“Ayan, thank you so much for that question, ‘no? Actually, in terms of sustainability—in terms of sustaining the connections that will thrive within the TAMplifying Diversity event, we’re planning on making this a routinary event. Sisiguraduhin po natin na every year, gaganapin ang TAMplifying Diversity. Bakit? FEU is a multicultural environment. We have students coming from different demographics, different backgrounds, and with this, panahon na para simulan ng FEUCSO ang isang inisyatibong magsisiguradong merong genuine inclusivity and genuine diversity within our University. Again, to answer your question, routinary project. ‘Yan po ang ating balak sa Tamplifying Diversity.”

Follow-up question: While that is valid, don’t we already have routinary events within the FEU in which, already provides avenues for different cultural—diverse cultures for them to perform. Wouldn’t it be counterproductive if we provide another avenue instead of amplifying more in pushing forward that they have a space for those particular events so that they can perform and showcase their talents? (Interpellated by Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union Secretary Ivy Bisnar)

“Okay, thank you for that question. So, I will now be speaking as the Director of Internal and Disciplinary Affairs department. Well actually, with regards to your question, knowing the routinary projects of FEUCSO right now, there isn’t actually a routinary project that is catered in, again, providing the necessary platforms to students, specifically students coming from different demographics and backgrounds, na makapag-connect sila, makapagmeet sila ng fellow Tamaraw students nila from the same backgrounds.

Again, wala pa pong routinary project from FEUCSO with regards na same 'yung mechanism, same 'yung purpose, and same 'yung rationale sa ‘TAMplifying Diversity. Again, TAMplifying Diversity is a fresh perspective. Mahalaga po na dapat ituloy natin ito, kasi again, FEU is a multicultural environment. Kailangan po natin mag-provide ng necessary platform wherein 'yung mga students natin ay makakabuild sila ng community, magkakaroon sila ng sense of belongingness sa FEU. Maraming salamat po.”

Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union Secretary Ivy Bisnar

“Every rise begins with a story, and every story begins with a voice. We TamaRise together, creating more opportunities to speak up and step in.

I am Ivy Grace Bisnar, your second-year Communication Society officer, and I believe in leadership that listens, for students and voices hold power, at sa bawat kuwento at boses, mahalagang merong nakikinig. I have walked the halls of our campus. Nakita at narinig ko ang mga kuwento, mga kuwentong madalas ay hindi naabot ang tamang espasyo, but I did not stop at listening—I started building ways to turn voices into movements. Kaya Tamaraws, let me ask you, may gusto ka bang sabihin pero hindi mo alam kung may sapat na pagkakataon para marinig? Do you have a talent you wish more people saw? At alam mo ba na meron tayong mga plataporma at espasyo para mas mabigyang-boses ka pa?

I believe that with ‘TamHalls,’ we’ll create that space to bring people together for a community where concerns are raised, feedback is heard, and actions are co-led by sector representatives. I believe that with ‘Spotlight,’ we’ll go beyond recognitions where we connect student-artists and athletes to real opportunities through events, workshops, and community representation, and I believe that with ‘Align,’ we’ll build a concrete structure. Because if we want stories to truly take part in growth, kinakailangan natin ng mga nararapat na sistema sa likod nito. Para sa tunay na pagkakataon at espasyo,

I am Ivy Grace Bisnar, and I am here because I hear each and everyone of you. And now, handa akong tiyakin na walang boses na mananatiling tahimik, walang kuwentong hindi maririnig, at walang layuning hindi matutupad, and I am more than ready to rise as your 90th FEUCSO Secretary.”

Question: So, for my first question, I’ll be questioning your project, TamHalls. You proposed a TamHall platform for student concerns and institutional dialogues; however, FEUCSO already has existing student’s welfare and grievances department in place. Isn’t it counterproductive considering that you would be creating an entirely new channel that you only duplicate existing efforts? And for you, do you think that the grievance system of FEUCSO is ineffective or insufficient? (Interpellated by Kadiwa Student Coalition Secretary Christian James Nambatac)

“All that comes to this student welfares and grievance of the current department of FEUCSO. We’re not saying here that it’s not functional, but we’re expanding our vision with TamHalls, because with TamHalls, we don’t just listen to the grievances of the students, we lay out the actual lived experiences of each of the students; hindi lang ‘yung mga problema nila but also offer solutions to their problems kaya co-led siya by sector representatives. It won't just be the student-leaders that will be echoing the concerns of the students, but the students themselves, because this year, we TamaRise together, and part of that campaign ay kasama ang bawat isa.”

Follow-up question: If grievances often require urgent attention such as academic or financial distress, how do you justify asking students to wait for scheduled TamHalls instead of resolving issues through faster existing channels? (Interpellated by Kadiwa Student Coalition Secretary Christian James Nambatac)

“As reflected from the mechanisms of my projects, there are actually three categories in terms of the TamHalls. First is the general TamHalls, ito ‘yung mga scheduled na, pre-determined ‘yung topics, pre-determined ‘yung takes based also on the needs of the students. Pero pangatlo doon ay, of course, ‘yung emerging and urgent issues natin, where we no longer need to wait for the student to air out their concerns, but we already built systems na, ‘okay, we will finally talk about this.’ We don't necessarily put a date to the problems that we’re facing, right now. We’re experiencing heat indices, we don't have to wait for specific meeting to talk about them, we take action, and that way—that’s the way we TamaRise together.”

Kadiwa Student Coalition Vice President Adrian Louis Diumano

“Ang lider na naging parte na ng sistema. Ito po ang patuloy nating isusulong para sa ika-nobentang taon ng FEU Central Student Organization. Because the chairperson that will serve for the 11th FEU Congress is a FEUCSO vice president that has been a representative for two consecutive years and the chairperson is me. I am Adrian Louis, the former Vice President of the FEU Makati Student Council, now serving as its president. And your 90th FEUCSO Vice President.

As your FEUCSO Vice President, I am not here just to stand with you. I am here, to walk with you, ensuring that every step we take leads to real change. We will create a leadership that listens, acts, and collaborates with every Tamaraw for a truly inclusive and accountable student government. Isang lideratong may paninindigan, maninindigan dahil bilang ang bawat hakbang patungo sa ating pangarap. Maninindigan dahil bilang ang bawat segundo na ating nilalaan para sumakses. At maninindigan dahil bilang sina Botchog, Kiffy, at iba pang stray animals sa loob ng Pamantasan. Dala-dala ng Kadiwa Student Coalition ang lideratong sinisuguro na bilang ang bawat isa. Bilang, hindi lamang ang ating mga pagsisikap patungo sa isang mas maka-estudyanteng sistema, ngunit pati na rin ng ating mga fur friends through ‘TAMang Pag-aalaga.’ A project that aims to create a safer space for our fur babies through exploring our possible courses of actions. A progressive university deserves a progressive governance that centers true and genuine representation.

Representasyon sa bawat boses, bawat karapatan, at bawat interests ng mga miyembro ng komunidad natin. Dahil sa FEUCSO Kadiwa, may bilang ka. Muli, I am Adrian Louis Diumano, ang FEUCSO Vice President na subok na sa Kongreso at hubog na sa pagpapatupad ng mga proyekto patungo sa isang FEU na bilang ang bawat isa. Maraming salamat po."

Question: Good evening, Adrian. So as you stated in your second piece of your mechanism, you plan in classifying certain absences as excuse. But we all know in the FEU Student Handbook and the CHED Memorandum, there is no such thing as excuse absence. So, given that this is a national regulatory standard, not just a University policy, how do you reconcile this contradiction? Are you proposing to override a CHED Memorandum or was this a policy oversight in your proposal? (Interpellated by Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union Vice President Monika Panganiban)

“If babasahin po natin ‘yung CHED Memorandum, under that article, or specifically under that section, meron po siyang nakalagay na meron ding discretion si University to consider the absences if ever nga na valid talaga siya, and this project is actually benchmarked din fsa iba’t ibang universities. Kinonsult din natin ito sa ibang universities na tumatanggap ng excused absences. 

At ang isusulong pa nating excused absences, sisiguraduhin po natin that we will just not cater the students but also the faculty. Kaya lalagyan po natin ito ng mga safeguard and guidelines for the mechanisms [for] the allowable absences. And the excuse absences is nakaangkla din sa ating student handbook, kaya sinisigurado po natin that we can challenge the system on having a more student-centered learning para sa mas maka-estudyanteng sistema.”

Follow-up question: The FEU Handbook and the current departmental practices already provide accommodations for us students. What specific gap does your policy addresses that isn't already covered by the handbook? Because if the current system already grants discretion, isn't the real issue here is the enforcement and not policy creation? How does your project avoid simplificity, duplicating what's already written?  (Interpellated by Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union Vice President Monika Panganiban)

“If nanamnamin po natin 'yung nasa student handbook natin. For academic accommodation, ang nakalagay po doon is specifically, may chance lang or may possible lang special na FAs [Formative Assessments] and SAs [Summative Assessments]; single FA, ‘di siya puwede sa dalawang series of FAs and SA. We're going to challenge the system wherein we will try to have a more student system through having special submissions for our FAs and SAs.

Actually, this is also benchmarked from the current resolution in the IAS Parliament from the Political Science Society. At sinisigurado po natin na mas lalatagin natin, mas i-streamline po natin 'yung processes ng pagkakaroon ng special submission for our project. Dahil naniniwala po kami na bilang din ang bawat kuwento ng mga estudyanteng hindi nabigyan ng tamang oportunidad upang magkaroon ng special submission sa kanilang FAs and SAs.”

Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union Vice President Monika Panganiban

“I stand before you today hindi lang isang kandidato, pero bilang isang babae, estudyante, at lider na alam ng boses. Because in a system where students' welfare may be compromised, I am your Vice President who believes in you, that silence is never an option. Ako si Monika Panganiban, binitbit natin ang IAS pataas bilang inyong IAS Student Council Auditor. Nakasama niyo na po ako at naipanalo po natin ang karapatang pang-estudyante bilang inyong former FEUCSO Associate Director for Students' Welfare and Grievances. Kaya naman po ngayon, bitbit ko ang mas pinagtibay na paninidigan mula sa konseho hanggang sa sentral.

Natupad po natin lahat ng ating pinakabo. An unstoppable effort that leads into establishment of systems. Systems that you now experience, systems that you will further strengthen. Taon-taon, enrollment struggles, kulang ang slots—kaya po mas kinakailangan natin ng proper coordination. With tamang slots, it gives us a demand-tracking initiative wherein it empowers both students and departments.

Wala pa man po ang problema sa enrollment, may solusyon na po tayo, tayo ay may aksiyon. Taon-taon, mga resolutions po ay marami tayong naipapasa pero hindi po natin ito agad na naipapatupad. Kaya with 'TamCore,' sisiguraduhin po natin na hindi lamang ito maipapasa because passing a resolution is only step one. Implementation should be and must be the finish line. Together, kasama niya po ang aming mga platatorma sa lideratong may puso, may direksiyon, tayo po ay may kongkretong solusyon.

I am Monika Panganiban. Hindi lamang po ito laban bilang isang babae, estudyante, at lider, ito po ay laban natin lahat patungo sa mas progresibong Pamantasan kasama niyo po ang lideratong may paninindigan. Tamaraws, I offer more than experience because I am ready to rise as your FEUCSO Vice President.”

Question: As the FEUCSO Vice President, you are proposing to implement the TamCore agenda, which indicates an intent congressional manual, budget legislation enhancement, and institutional resolution. My question is, do you know the formal process of introducing a bill or resolution in the congress? Does it require multiple sponsorship from multiple members, or can it be filed by individual representatives? (Interpellated by Kadiwa Student Coalition Vice President Adrian Louis Diumano)

“Ayan. Yes po, atin pong isinusulong ang TamCore dahil na-experience ko rin po ang parl prod [parliamentary] procedure outside the University. And upon asking, and of course, immersing myself, with the student-legislators that we have, I’ve noticed po na maayos naman po ang kongreso pero kinakailangan po natin ng mas maayos na sistema when it comes to coordination with our administration. Dahil nabanggit nga po natin kanina na marami pong resolutions na naipapasa, pero hindi po natin na-i-implement and that is the blame point of our congressional manual. More on, this one is just like to have a proper knowledge about the congress itself, pero mas naka-focus po tayo kung paano po natin kakausapin ang administration para po mas ma-implement natin, kasi after all, what we want if for us to have an improved and enhanced student welfare.”

Follow-up question: I appreciate 'yung aim ng congressional manual. However, 'yung question ko talaga is assuming that you win as the FEUCSO Vice President. Do you know what is the formal process of introducing a bill or resolution in the congress? Does it require multiple sponsorship from multiple members, or can it be filed by individual representatives? (Interpellated by Kadiwa Student Coalition Vice President Adrian Louis Diumano)

“With what, I have mentioned is I immersed myself with the fellow student-legislator. And for us to pass a bill or a resolution with the congress, we need to have first, committees, and actually ‘di ba kaya po tayo nagkakaroon ng legislators exactly? If you will notice on my congressional manual, meron po tayong timeline na nakalagay dito. And kung process naman, magkakaroon po muna tayo ng legislator’s exam. From then on, magkakaroon po tayo ng representatives per organizations kasi kinakailangan po na may boses hindi lamang po ang ating Acad Orgs and [Institute] Student Councils, pero pati ang ating mga Uni-wide organization. So from then on, ay magkakaroon po tayo ng pag-file or pagkakaroon ng sariling committee and meron po itong kaniya-kaniya—meron po tayong pina-prioritize every year, and meron din pong kalayaan ang mga student-legislators kung ano po ‘yung anong ipapasang-–mga committee na kabibilangan nila under the congress. And aside from this, kung paano tayo magpapasa…”

Kadiwa Student Coalition President Goeffrey Lababo

“Tuition and miscellaneous fees increase that leave classes suspended, that leaves every student with uncertainties in terms of their schedule and plans, and all behind that is a lack of student representation that needs a voice to every community—a voice where everyone of us should be speaking up. We must not indulge in this because this is the reality.

Heto ang realidad na hindi dapat natin tinatanggap, the reality that we should be recalibrating and moving forward and this is the year that we should be fighting. For fighting against the rising miscellaneous fees, the class suspension to ensuring that these are the daily struggles that we have fought for since then.

Ako po si Goeffrey ‘Gio’ Lababo, batang lingkod-bayan, the incumbent FEU Political Science Society President, your 90th FEUCSO President. Walang numero ang makakapagbigkas sa tunay na nangyari sa bawat estudyante. Hindi sapat na ang datos dahil dito mas kinakailangan natin alamin ang mga solusyon na dapat tugunan ngayong taon. At ngayon, sisiguraduhin natin na ang boses ng bawat Tamaraw ay hindi lang makikinig, ngunit magkakaroon din ng aksiyon. Pinili na natin suungin ang baha, who knows, at ano pa man. Umakyat na tayo ng mga bundok, at lumayag sa malawak na karagatan sa bawat pagkakakilanlan na naging bilang ang bawat isa.

Ako, bilang 90th FEUCSO President, bitbit natin ang ‘Nobenta Code [of] 2025’ na nakaangkla sa bawat programa at proyekto ngayong taon kasama ang Institute Councils at Academic Organization, bitbit ang five codes, academic excellence, to student-servant leadership, to sustainability, inclusivity, diversity, at innovative future. Handa na po tayo, handa na maging isang tiyak sa ilang libong duda. Hinubog na ng panahon, pinagtibay pa ng karanasan, at ngayon, handa na magserbisyo bilang inyong susunod na 90th FEUCSO President, at sa ilalim ng Kadiwa. Thank you.”

Question: How will we have an IHSN representative aside from strengthening the connection with IHSN SC, since we can only do so much due to FEUCSO initiatives? Paano mo mabibigyang-solusyon ang kakulangan ng IHSN representation sa FEUCSO as the sole FEUCSO aspirant from the biggest institute in FEU? I am asking you to provide a technical solution for the lack of IHSN representation. Paano mo mabibigyan ng kulang na IHSN as the sole FEUCSO aspirant, I am asking technical solutions? (Interpellated by Independent Lawrence Aidan Cunanan)

“As the 90th FEUCSO president, the ‘Nobenta Code of 2021,’ kaya natin ito bitbit dahil gusto natin ang representasyon sa bawat organisasyon kasama ang Institute Councils and Academic Organizations as we acknowledge that you are—that we have an IHSN aspiring for FEUCSO presidency. Hence, sinisigurado namin na it’s not just about the works that we are doing, but rather, the kind of mechanism that processes in implementing in working collaboratively with IHSN Student Council, and other college societies in having these kinds of resolutions and action that all of us—including the Tamaraw community.”

Follow-up question: As a political party [member] and a political science major, what will you do about the depleting number of students that participate in the elections? Can you give a technical solution to ensuring a better voter turnout? (Interpellated by independent candidate Lawrence Aidan Cunanan)

“The Nobenta Code, once again, is a platform that we wanted to emphasize for this term, nandito nakaangkla ang bawat proyekto at programa na gusto nating isulong. Dito, isa sa mga proyekto natin ang the ‘Tamaraw’s Guide’ in terms of politics, because we have acknowledged that the rising number in terms of student apathy is a matter of concern for this year, and not just this year but a matter of concern for the national elections. If we are not to vote for this University election, what more if we are to participate in the national elections? That’s why as a Political Science student, the Tamaraw Guides in terms of politics is a matter of pushing more awareness to the Tamaraw students, pushing more representation in terms of the functions and duties in the different governmental positions, that us as Filipinos, and specifically as a Tamaraw students should be doing something, should be a change makers for the society.”

Question: Good afternoon, Gio. The ‘TAMZone’ banks on the idea of improving and expanding study spaces by maximizing unused campus spaces through administrative dialogue. But without specifying which rooms, how many seats, or what demand matrix this program is basing on. How is this anything more than a request without leverage? (Interpellated by Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union President Raezon Gonzales)

“Thank you for that Raezon. In terms of the TAMzone, again nakaangkla siya sa Nobenta Code because we have used the problem–solution matrix, because we are to acknowledge that there are already existing—the designated areas from the past semesters and including this semester. But the very problem here, is this being maximized? Is this being utilized for the students itself? Hence, this program is a matter of strengthening in terms of dialogue with the administration. In terms of communicating and collaborating with the Institute [Student] Councils and Academic Organizations, because in the first place the Institute [Student] Councils are the very first ones and even the Academic Organizations is the very first one who knows what is happening with the studentry, who knows what is happening with their constituent. Kaya, the TAMzone is a matter of working with the students, working in terms of maximizing our tuition fee, the facilities that every Tamaraw student deserves to have.

Question: Since you’ve been mentioning about strengthening dialogue, what will you do or what will you deliver if the space isn’t granted? (Interpellated by Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union President Raezon Gonzales)

“Thank you, Raezon. In terms of having contingency plans, whenever we are not heard as a student-leader, as a student, and as someone who is needed in terms of calling for action from the administration. It is important that we still act consistently despite being not heard by the administration, despite not—despite having a lack of representation in terms of our policies that we demand to the government, that we demand to the administration. Importante na ngayong taon, representasyon hindi lang sa FEUCSO, hindi lang sa bawat Institute [Student] Councils but also the Academic Organizations and the Uni-wide organizations that we must be here accordingly. The fact that we are paying, the fact that we live in this community, importante na bilang ang bawat isa, sa nakaraang taon, sa ilan mang taon and dadako, importante ang representasyon, ang boses, at angou pagkakakilanlan ng Tamaraw community.”

Independent President Lawrence Aidan Cunanan

“Mahusay, matibay, punong-puno ng puso—ako si Lawrence Aidan Cunanan, waitlisted president for third year promotion. May tiwalang hinarap at naniwala na kaya at gusto natin. An incoming fourth-year Medical Technology intern, dala ang mga plataporma under  ‘Malaya’ initiative. Una, ‘Team Up,’ FEUCSO President as part of the University deciding body. We will have a seat in the deciding table. Bitbit po ng pagiging presidente ko ang pagbasag sa ideya na dapat magkalaban ang administrasyon at student body. Ganito po natin mapapanalo ang mga estudyante—malayang student representation. 

‘Takbo Tamaraw: Fun Run For A Cause,’ we will raise funds for our advocacy projects. ‘All Out Support FEU,’ from our student-athletes, our student-artist, our Uni-wide organizations, student-owned business, and even financially struggling students; we will support them, our diverse community in FEU. Dahil kahit sino at ano ka, kasama ka sa malayang suporta ng FEUCSO. All—’Ibalik ang Saya: FEU Foundation Week 2026,’ dapat malaya po tayo maging proud Tamaraws. In this project, we will push for two-day class suspension, one for ‘Sayawit’ and one day for Concierto. Malaya at saludo po nating itutuloy ang nasimulan ng FEUCSO. Bilang isang independent FEUCSO candidate, hindi natin buburahin ang history ng FEUCSO, ipagpapatuloy lang natin.

Lastly, ‘PAGHABI: Pag-Asa na Harapin Ang Bukas Initiative,’ in IHSN student council, we were able to raise 30,000 pesos of IHSN Student Council lanyard profits that were used to feed 500 kids, elderly, and parents in Tondo, Manila. Sa pag-angat po natin sa FEUCSO, kasama kayo sa pagtuloy ng adbokasiya. Nailatag na po natin ang ating mga plataporma, and for the first time, na-consult na po ito sa administrasyon para masigurado natin na hindi na lang tayo mangangako, kung hindi malaya at may tiwala nating ilalatag ang mga plano, at kayo na po ang bahala. 

Muli, ako po si Lawrence Aidan Cunanan, bitbit ang three years of Tamaraw leadership. P.R.O. ng ABGC during my freshman year, the first-ever MedTech P.R.O. of the FEU IHSN Student Council during my sophomore year, now the third and youngest president of the FEU IHSN Student Council for my junior year, and your independent FEUCSO President.

Ito po ang dalang liderato ng malaya at may tiwala.”

Question: Given that ‘Takbo Tamaraw’ and ‘Tatak Tamaraw’ will be happening around the same time, and both events require significant planning and marketing, even coordination with external partners. How will you prioritize these sources to ensure its feasibility and that it will be executed effectively? (Interpellated by Kadiwa Student Coalition President Goeffrey Lababo)

“Bilang Institute Student Council president, we collaborate with FEUCSO this academic year. Even in my term as the P.R.O. and the thrust of my presidency is to ensure that the projects of FEUCSO is centralized to the Institute Student Council and Academic Organizations. Hindi po mag-iisa ang FEUCSO sa paglunsad ng mga progresibong programa, kung hindi, ibaba natin sa Institute Student Councils at even sa Academic Organizations ang trabaho para lahat ay kasama, dahil sabi nga ng Kadiwa, bilang ang bawat isa."

Follow-up question: Given the scope of ‘Takbo Tamaraw’ and its potential to raise significant funds, have you ever considered whether there other initiatives that maybe more urgent and are aligned with student needs that could also benefit from this funding allocation? How do you justify with this in terms of raising funds for the event? (Interpellated by Kadiwa Student Coalition President Goeffrey Lababo)

“Actually, Takbo Tamaraw: Fun Run For a Cause is collaborated with the FEU Academic Services, which is the office wherein the FEUCSO, the Institute Student Councils, and Academic Organizations are directly under. Of course, we will utilize the funds that are raised in all urgent matters and projects that will be beneficial for the student body. But with my mechanism, uunahin po natin ang PAGHABI: Pag-Asa na Harapin Ang Bukas Initiative, wherein we will help the cause of ending poverty and empowering the youth in Tondo, Manila. Because in my years of advocating for the kids of Tondo, I really believe they deserve the help we, Tamaraws, can actually give them. Maraming salamat, Gio.”

Question:  Good evening, Law. So for my question, what are the specific criteria for you to select the amount na ibibigay ni FEUCSO knowing na, ‘yun nga, as mentioned kanina, limitado lang naman talaga ‘yung budget natin. Then, paano ‘yung prioritization ng mga subsidy mo for the students? (Interpellated by Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union President Raezon Gonzales)

“Dito po papasok ‘yung ating Takbo Tamaraw: Fun Run For a Cause. We do acknowledge that the FEUCSO is the Central Student Organization, and we always advocate for our subordinates—the University-wide organizations, Institute Student Councils, and Academic Organizations, and even the marginalized sectors of the University. Kaya dapat sinisigurado natin that we also raise funds. And there’s strategic planning kung saan natin ina-allocate ‘yung ating mga pera at budget para masigurado nating lahat na, ‘ay, may malalapitan sa FEUCSO.’ At ito ang nilalaban ng lideratong malaya at may tiwala.”

Follow-up question: Ayan, for my follow up, since you’ve mentioned that ‘yung fun run ‘yung magiging contigency plan natin if ever we’re not going to be able to provide funds dahil nga limited lang ‘yung funds natin, what if ‘di matuloy 'yung fun run natin? Where will you get ‘yung other budget natin or sponsorships natin for you to provide the subsidies for the students? (Interpellated by Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union President Raezon Gonzales)

“Isa po sa mga inilulunsad at pinaglalaban nating mga plataporma natin ay ang ‘All-Out Support FEU,’ wherein we will support our student-owned businesses. Every activity period meron na po silang standardized booth inside the University. But alongside them, FEUCSO will also ra—FEUCSO will also raise platforms for us to raise funds through merchandises and a pop-up booth every activity period of every months. Ibig sabihin, sustainable po tayo. We will create money and circle them to actually benefit the Tamaraw[s] strategically and also logistically. Maraming salamat, Raezon.”

Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union President Raezon Gonzales

“1898, tayo ay nagkaisa at naghayag ng ating kalayaan. 1986, napatalsik natin ang diktador through People Power. 2001, muli po tayong bumangon sa pamamagitan ng EDSA dos. 2020, kahit na pandemya, nakita po natin ang mas malakas na tinig ng kabataan. 2025, this is our year, the year we choose to be collective and empowered, the year where FEUCSO sparks in your movement. For the students, by students, with the students. Imagine ang lakas ng daan-daang, libo-libong Tamaraws all rising for one collective purpose. And I had  the chance to stand with all of you.

As your incumbent FEUCSO Auditor, nabilang na po natin ang bawat isa, nabigyan na rin po natin ng kulay at ningning ang bawat kampanya. 30 plus surveys, 100 plus tables and graphs, 20,000 plus respondents—ang bawat datos na ito ay hindi lamang mga bilang, kun’di ito ay mga estudyante[ng] may halaga, mga estudyanteng may pangarap, at mga estudyanteng may kakayahan magdala ng pagbabago.

Sa aking ‘TamaRISE 6-Point Agenda,’ we TamaRise together for a better student representation dahil hindi sapat na tayo ay i-inform lang, dapat kasama tayo sa pagde-desisyon. We TamaRise together to update ‘yung ating mga lumang polisiya, dahil hindi na ito nagre-resonate sa atin bilang estudyante. We TamaRise together na ituloy ang ating mga kampanya sa isyu gaya ng ating mga tuition fee increase. We TAMARise together para sa mas klaro at mas maayos na guidelines tuwing may class suspension. We TamaRise together para sa pagiging ingklusibo dahil ang bawat sektor ng ating komunidad ay mahalaga.

At we TamaRise together dahil dapat tayo ay tapat at totoo, dahil ang tunay na liderato ay naninindigan sa katotohanan. Nagsimula po ako bilang executive committee, umangat po ako bilang direktor, nahalal bilang inyong auditor, at mananalo bilang inyong presidente. I am Raezon Gonzales, an incoming fourth-year student from IABF, your outgoing FEUCSO Auditor because I am now ready to rise as your 90th FEUCSO President.”

Question: Regarding the second point agenda, how will you guarantee that having a seat in the university decision making for processes translates the real influence rather than symbolic representation? And even if this becomes symbolic or a representation, how would you work when this kind of decision in terms of having that platform be denied the administration itself? (Interpellated by Kadiwa Student Coalition President Goeffrey Lababo)

“Thank you so much Gio for that question. Regarding sa second point ng aking 'TamaRISE 6-Point Agenda,' ang pagkakaroon po ng FEUCSO or pagkakaroon po ng seat ng mga eatudyante sa decision-making po, actually nakalagay po satin sa student handbook po that the students have the rights to policy-making. Kapag hindi po ito in-approve ng ating administrasyon, ‘yun po ang ating iha-hammer, because sila po mismo ang naglagay ng mga data at datos na nakalagay doon. At to answer po ‘yung question natin na hindi lang po ito magre-resolve as a symbolic representation.

Actually, that’s the point having a symbolic representation that the students have the part or have the decision or have a say in the decision-making is already progressive kasi hindi natin ito ganoon nararamdaman sa ating eskuwelahan. Ang ibang eskuwelahan, mayroon ito at dapat natin ito ini-instill sa ating paaralan at kung ito man ay hindi mangyari, of course, mangyayari ito sa aking termino at kasama natin ang ating iba’t ibang slate kasi meron po kaming proyekto on student representation.”

Follow-up question: For my second question, on which focusing on the agenda 5. Given the financial constraints that many of the organizations facing specifically for this year. How would you ensure that this expansion of your services just not come at the expense of affordability or accessibility? (Interpellated by Kadiwa Student Coalition President Goeffrey Lababo)

“Thank you, Gio, for asking that kasi we in FEUCSO or as I have been working with FEUCSO, alam ko po kung paano tayo kakalap ng mga pera through sponsorships, kung saan po tayo hihingi na mga offices, kung saan po tayo hihingi ng subsidy. At ‘yun po ‘yung mga sistema na alam po natin na puwede po natin gamitin when it comes para hindi po dumating na para malilimitahan po ‘yung budget mismo ni FEUCSO when it comes to accessibility. At ‘yun po ‘yung ating iha-hammer kasi dapat po talaga meron pong parte ang mga estudyante when it comes to expanded health care services dahil karapatan po natin ito. Alam ko po sa ating lahat, marami pong nakakaranas ng kakulangan sa ating mga serbisyo kaya kasama rin po natin ang auditor para i-audit po ‘yung ating mga services. At doon po tayo kukuha ng solusyon para po sa mga problema natin.”

Question: Hi Raezon, upholding transparency and accountability, if a fellow officer is MIA for months affecting the quality service for Tamaraws, as a current auditor running president, where do you firmly stand on impeachment? Will you have compassion and give another chance after communicating it out or go through the unpopular decision of impeachment due process? (Interpellated by Independent candidate Lawrence Aidan Cunanan)

“Thank you so much for that, Law. Since we’ve been mentioning about impeachment and if the time or if the situation needs for an impeachment, kailangan po natin ituloy ‘yung impeachment. As you have mentioned, we are elected. Elected po tayo, and hindi po dapat natin pinagtatakpan ‘yung mga co-officers natin na hindi nagpe-perform. And that is our role as a student-leaders, kahit kasama po natin sila, kahit sila po ay mga kaibigan natin, or kahit sila ay mga kaklase natin. Dapat we still advocate for accountability kasi ayun po ‘yung kailangan natin. The students voted for us, their votes reflect kung ano ba ‘yung gusto nila. And I do agree with having an impeachment kasi ‘yun po ang deserve ng ating mga estudyante. At parte po ‘yan ng aming Rise Agenda na kung saan we will be reinforcing accountability and transparency with the students.”

Follow-up question: My second question would be, do you have specific plans of actions since we are talking about transparency and accountability, for working students or financially struggling students on how FEUCSO can uplift their daily struggles as a student of FEU? (Interpellated by Independent candidate Lawrence Aidan Cunanan)

“Thank you so much for that, Law. For the working students natin or for our projects, actually meron pong proyekto ako bilang presidente to have seat nga in the student representation. Pero meron din pong proyekto ang aking mga ka-slate when it comes on having a different town halls or different conventions na kung saan doon po natin puwede i-raise ‘yung ating mga concerns as a working students. And actually, that is a good point, kasi po puwede po natin i-hammer with our student representation or FEUCSO seat po sa ating admin na dapat ‘yung ating mga working students po are being prioritized also, that they should also be considered. Kasi, we know what they feel and also part din po ng ating pag—to add lang din po—as FEUCSO po we can also amplify yung mga current na ginagawa po ng ating different offices kasi po the school or our school provides so much grant, mapagbigay po ‘yung ating University, and with my slate po, atin pong ia-amplify po iyon para rin po mas malaman ng mga estudyante na meron po tayong ganung mga plataporma.”

Round 2

Each candidate will spin a wheel containing numbers that correspond to a question regarding a unique theme—national or campus-wide. They are given two minutes to answer while an interpolation of the opposing candidate was allowed for 30 seconds. The candidate will then answer for a minute.

Kadiwa Student Coalition Public Relations Officer Krizzy Aldrienne Sotes

Question: Sovereignty and nationalism are the common talking points, particularly because of the that ICC’s arrest warrant for Former President Duterte but also because of our ongoing territorial conflict concerning the West Philippine Sea. How can leaders use nationalism to encourage responsible political participation, while remaining critical of their nation’s shortcomings?

“Thank you so much for that question. As a student-leader, I believe that we should practice nationalism in the very earliest way dahil po sa kadahilanan na ito nga po ang magtutulong sa atin upang ipaglaban ang ating bansa at ang ating bayan and—'yun lang po, maraming salamat.”

Follow-up question: There are no follow up questions.

Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union Public Relations Officer Sean Michael Paquita

Question: The theme is on political strategy: Former Vice President Leni Robredo is incurring backlash due to her endorsement of candidates under the Administration ticket (i.e. Benhur Abalos and Manny Pacquiao). Supporters claim that this is a strategic move to expedite the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte, while critics argue that Leni’s endorsement is a manifestation of ‘trapo’ politics, and that it clashes with the principles of accountability and good governance that served as the foundation of her Presidential Campaign in the previous National Election. With that being said, how should public servants, including student leaders, strike the balance between their principles and practical political strategies?

“Hindi po tayo panatiko. Binoto po natin si Leni [Robredo] nung 2022, pero ngayon, kinukuwestiyon na natin kung ano kaniyang mga… mga naging desisyon sa buhay. Meron tayong—nag-e-endorse na siya ng may mga questionable backgrounds, pero uulitin natin, hindi po tayo panatiko. Tayo ay magiging… criticized—Cri, cri... sorry, sorry. Tayo ay magki-criticize ng ating leaders na ating papaupuin dahil sila ang magse-serve sa atin. And as a student-leader, naniniwala po ako na isa po sa trabaho natin ay to give awareness to this kind of issue. Kasi ang iba, nananatiling pikit sa ganitong klaseng issue, and I believe that as a Press Relations Officer, tayo ay—pina-practice na po natin ang ating press freedom to advocate for everyone’s right. And I believe, na—and I firmly believe, na awareness to students and everyone will trigger an action.”

Follow-up question: No questions from the opposing candidate.

Kadiwa Student Coalition Auditor Margarette Antoinette Macatangay

Question: The theme is budget allocation. Many Academic Organizations struggle to have sufficient funding to accomplish their projects. Given that there are new organizations that are accredited every year, how will you ensure that all organizations will have enough resources to accomplish their goals?

“Firstly, we [acknowledge] the efforts na mayroon tayong yearly na budget hearing na ginagawa dito sa ating Pamantasan with the student organizations. Within this, pinag-uusapan natin kung ano nga ba ‘yung specific na allocation from different organization from FEUCSO to the Institute Student Councils to the Academic [Organizations] and finally to the Uni-wide organizations. With this, I appreciate and I acknowledge the process of this already. May allocation process na tayo currently here. But if ever, kailangan natin ng aksiyon in order to ensure, or in order to give more help to those organizations na nakukulangan ng funds. We, in FEUCSO, offer one of the specific plans of actions of our treasurer, na mayroon tayong partnership drive kung saan puwedeng makakuha ‘yung iba't ibang organizations ng additional funds in order to fund nga their projects na i-implement pa nila further. Ayon lang po, maraming salamat."

Follow-up question: So I just want to know your stand, ano, when it comes to the budget allocations, kung ano ‘yung tingin mong dapat gawin sa pag-allocate ng budget sa ating FEUCSO, Uni-wide orgs, and at the same time, Institute Student Councils.

 “[Currently, ako naman ay sumasang-ayon] sa current allocation ng budget na [nag-result] from the budget hearing na ginawa natin sa FEU Congress. With this, I firmly respect also all those legislators na nag-raise ng concerns and I believe na ‘yung mga napag-usapan o napagdiskusyonan during these budget [sessions] natin here at FEU ay isang pag-uusap ng mga legislators na alam talaga at also willing na bigyan ng plataporma o natatama o tamang funds ang bawat organizations here sa FEU."

Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union Auditor Kemuel Malachi Mabalot

Question: Labor Economics—the Philippines is no longer the agricultural powerhouse that it used to be in the 50’s and 60’s. Today, the country struggles to develop its own version of 'Comparative Advantage,' as the BPO industry begins to be outpaced by AI models, and other outsource-reliant countries such as India and Pakistan. With this in mind, how can the Philippines effectively and efficiently upskill its population to make it more globally and locally competitive?

“I believe na importanteng i-utilize natin ‘yung mga resources na meron tayo dito sa ating bansa, at hindi dapat tayo nalilimitahan sa kung anong mga bagay na meron tayo. And with that, it’s really important to advocate what we have currently in the future. And I do believe na, as a Biology student, na hindi dapat nalilimitahan ‘yung mga agricultural environments natin na hindi ito nahi-hinder kung paano tayo i-improve as a nation. And with that, it’s really important na magkaroon tayo ng call to action sa ating gobyerno para mas maging… ma-elevate or mas ma-improve natin ang ating bansa. Thank you po.”

Follow-up question: Ayan, since ‘yung pagiging competitive kasi natin globally, it can be derived din from efforts or pagkakaroon ng collaborations with other countries since ‘yung ibang mga corporations dito sa Philippines ay from other countries nga, like, may mga bases sila dito. So, do you think na better na magkaroon pa tayo ng connection or ng mga partnerships with other countries na magkaroon sila ng bases dito here sa Philippines or no?

“While we do acknowledge ‘yung pagkakaroon ng collaborative efforts with other countries, pero it’s really important to highlight na tayo as a country, we can do better. We can be more than just a country na umaasa sa kanila. We can improve our national sovereignty para mas maging matunog tayo sa ibang bansa at mas ma-amplify natin at magamit natin ang mga resources na meron tayo as a nation. Thank you.”

Follow-up question: With that, sinasabi mo nga na dapat na ma-utilize natin 'yung mga meron tayo locally. What are specific siguro projects na we can further boost pa siguro as student-leaders na para maging globally competitive 'yung ating country?

“So, siguro as a student-leader, what’s really important is call to action sa ating gobyerno para magkaroon sila ng necessary steps na ipo-provide sa ating mga estudyante at sa ating mga gobyerno or local offices. And with that, it’s really important na tayong mga estudyante rin ay aware. And with that, our treasurer kasi is meron siyang way on amplifying things na hindi dapat lang limitado sa ating social media presence 'yung mga gusto nating ipahayag sa ating mga estudyante. But at the same time is ma—mabigyan natin sila ng face-to-face or more information about the issue that is being asked. Thank you.”

Context: The debate moderators later clarified that they mistakenly allowed the opposing candidate to ask two follow-up questions. Based on the mechanics of the second round, only one follow-up question is allowed per candidate.

Kadiwa Student Coalition Treasurer Reginalois Alessandra De Guzman

Question: The ‘Overton Window’ describes the range of politically acceptable views in a given time period. Radical progressivism and reactionary conservatism are views that are outside the Overton window. They are ever-present in political discourse, and they are often tagged as being too taboo or extreme. In your opinion, what is the value of these stances that fall outside the Overton window to political discourses in the Philippines? 

“Can you give context for that question?”

Context: The Overton window, specifically the topics that fall outside of this range, particularly pertain to those topics which are generally held as taboo or too radical for the vast majority of the population to engage with at any given time. This looks like radical discourses about the roles of gender and whether or not they should be—the barriers should be abolished or other discussions about abortion rights in a country that is primarily catholic. 

“As educated students, it is within our right to vote for specific legislations that provide a progressive stance on terms of gender-based issues wherein bills such as SOGIE SC Bill, Divorce Bill, will take into consideration the needs and the concerns of our Filipino citizens. So, as student leaders, it is within our goal to educate and to provide a platform for education for our Tamaraw community in a way that we will give awareness to what is happening here in terms of political issues and discourses that is currently happening here in the Philippine system. It is important that as student-leaders, we use social media platforms to give education to our fellow Tamaraws in order to determine what type of legislation or policies can be made in order to provide a more inclusive and progressive stance in terms of our country.”

Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union Treasurer Katherine Nicolas

Question: The Philippines stands in a crossroads right now. The Duterte administration heavily pivoted towards China, while Marcos Jr. is actively restoring relations with the United States. China brings in infrastructure development, technology, and market access; while the United States brings geopolitical protection and foreign leverage. With this century turning out to be "China's Century," do you think the Philippines should heavily reconsider its association with an increasingly unstable America?

“While we do recognize 'yung mga tulong na nare-receive natin sa ibang bansa, bilang isang bansa, importante pa rin po na mas pagtibayin natin ‘yung national sovereignty natin. Kaya bilang isang lider-estudyante, gamitin natin ‘yung plataporma na meron tayo, ‘yung influence na meron tayo, para mag-advocate sa awareness para—para mas ma-amplify natin ‘yung voices ng bawat isa at kung ano nga ba ‘yung talagang kailangan natin bilang isang bansa.”

Follow-up question: So my question for you is that, regarding the topic on Philippines’ association with the U.S., do you think there are any specific benefits that… the U.S. can provide the Philippines and vice versa?

“Meron kasing—meron naman kasi talaga tayong natu—natatanggap na tulong mula sa Amerika pero ang—ang nangyayari kasi ay hi—mas marami silang natatanggap o mas marami silang nabe-benefit sa’tin kaysa sa nabe-benefit natin sa kanila. Kaya nga importante na habang nire-recognize natin ‘yung tulong na natatanggap natin sa kanila ay hindi pa rin tayo maging dependent sa ibang bansa at mas pagtibayin natin ‘yung national sovereignty.”

Kadiwa Student Coalition Secretary Christian James Nambatac

Question: Miss Universe—the 'Miss Universe' pageant is one of the most viewed and anticipated events in Filipino pop culture. The program is heralded as a platform for championing advocacies. Many viewers, however, criticize the program for perpetuating unrealistic beauty standards and the objectification of women. With that being said, what role does Miss Universe and pageant culture in general play in the fight for feminism in the Philippines?

“Ayan so, in terms of role ng pageantry sa Pilipinas dito when it comes to feminism, as stated mismo sa question, mahalaga po ang Miss Universe in terms of setting the boundaries, setting the criterias po in terms of the beauty standards ng isang Filipina woman. And with such, as an institution, the Miss Universe should be more inclusive in terms of, for example, accepting candidates or pageant candidates. And dapat mas babaan nila 'yung standard, hindi lamang sa mga sasali sa pageantry na ‘to, because again kung sino ‘yung mga candidates na sasali sa Miss Universe, they will set the standard of what it means to be a Filipino woman. And I believe na hindi dapat natin nililimita ang kagandahan or boses ng kababaihan dito sa Pilipinas sa isang standard lamang ng kagandahan kun'di dapat binibigyan ng boses, binibigyan ng plataporma ang bawat kababaihan na sumali sa Miss Universe. Again, hindi dapat natin nililimitahan ang mga kababaihan in terms of joining the Miss Universe. Ayon lamang po, maraming salamat.”

Follow-up question: You have mentioned about lowering the standards in terms of allowing other candidates or promoting inclusivity. With that, are you imposing that in order to be inclusive in terms of pageantry in the Philippines, we need to necessarily lower our standards in terms of women?

“Ayan, so I would like to clarify my answer, ‘no? The right word is not lower, but rather eradicate the beauty standard na sine-set ng Miss Universe. Because again, hindi dapat natin nililimitahan lamang sa isang beauty standard ang isang—ang kagandahan ng bawat Filipina, but rather, inclusive dapat tayo. Lahat ng kababaihan ay dapat nabibigyan ng plataporma, especially when it comes to the Miss Universe, considering na grabe ‘yung influence nito sa mga watchers, viewers nito. And with such, having such influence sa bansa natin, dapat again, mas inclusive siya, and eradicate the beauty standard na na-i-imprint sa bawat isip ng bawat Filipino. Ayon lamang, maraming salamat.”

Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union Secretary Ivy Bisnar

Question: Certain sports (swimming, chess, basketball) have female-only titles/leagues in order to increase female participation and to address historical disparities in access. There is a growing movement in sports that calls for the abolition of 'gendered' sports because they promote the idea that men and women have inherently different levels of skills. How can we reconcile the need for greater equity in a world where the borders between genders is being upheld?

“In a world where gender [inaudible], now is the time we, as students, be progressive, and as a nation, to push forward notions and ideas that promote more inclusive spaces for each and everybody. In terms of sports, it is true that there are biological differences when it comes to it, but if we continue to have these conversations wherein we don’t expand our vision [to] more than what is truly needed and what is most equitable for all, then we do not progress as a nation and as a global society as a whole. Because in reality, men and women may have their differences, but ultimately, to promote a true and inclusive nation is to abolish that these two entities have their own… have their own strengths and weaknesses of their own, and through the sports, we can showcase our talents where we don’t just look at their capabilities, but we also promote what is best for each and everybody.

Follow-up question: There are no follow-up questions.

Kadiwa Student Coalition Vice President Adrian Louis Diumano

Question: Student leadership is a pillar in the FEU community. Many students are concerned with the consistency and presence of the candidates they are going to elect. How can we ensure that the student-leaders will remain present and active for their constituents, and how will you make the process of accountability more satisfying?

“So, thank you for that question. Naniniwala po ako ng a leader should always show up. In that case naman po, mahalaga po as student-leaders, nangangandidato man o nasa position man in our Academic Organizations or Institute [Student] Councils or even University-wide organizations. Mahalaga na maging magandang ehemplo sa ating mga estudyante at komunidad. With the absenteeism, it's very crucial and important to have platform for us to address this type of student experiences. Dahil bilang din naman 'yung bawat karanasan nila sa mga student-leaders na meron tayo. Ang ating isusulong sa ating congress for the next 11th FEU Congress is to have the impeachment cases being lobbied in the congress. Gaya lang nung ginagawa natin sa ating senado ngayon sa Pilipinas, isa po ‘yon ang ating isusulong din sa ating congreso to ensure accountability for everyone. At kasama natin ang proyekto ng ating FEUCSO Auditor, ang Tam PERS, to ensure na i-evaluate po natin 'yung bawat student organizations na meron po tayo.

Dahil bilang po 'yung bawat boses at 'yung bawat karanasan nung mga students natin here in FEU regarding their experience sa bawat lider-estudyante na nakakasalamuha ko. Maraming salamat.”

Follow-up question: I do acknowledge that you have a great project, but I think we need to go back to the basics, especially that's the purpose of your question. May I ask, do you think, if you were elected, how can you ensure the students here in Manila that you will always show up to them, not just in your projects, but in day-to-day basis because the landscape here in FEU context is, we know that it's different from both campuses. So yeah, that's my question. How will you ensure that you can assure the students that you will be present and will always show up? 

“Hasa na po tayo. As a two-time executive board member, familiar na po tayo with the system, not only in FEU Makati but also in FEU Manila. Dahil nasa iisang administration lang po ang naggagabay sa'tin at nagme-mentor sa'tin. Regarding the showing up, I've been a member of FEUCSO for two years na at ito po ang ating dadalhin patutungo sa aking serbisyo bilang Bise Presidente ng FEUCSO. In terms of juggling time or academics or personal, subok na po tayo in regards to the system. It's also time for us to break the stigma or to break the image that if ever man na taga-FEU Makati ang uupo sa FEUCSO, ‘di na sila pamilyar sa sistema. Dahil kami bilang executive board—bilang two-time executive board member ay hasa na po tayo at familiar na po tayo with the system, with the different guidelines na meron tayo, and with the different policies na meron po tayo. Ito po ang ating isusulong para sa 90th na taon ng FEU Central Student Organization bilang FEUCSO vice president. Muli, ako po si Adrian Louis Diumano. Maraming salamat po.”

Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union Vice President Monika Panganiban

Question: There have been growing calls to increase the transparency of University political mechanisms. To what extent do you think the information regarding the decision-making should be made transparent to the student body? And what information would you keep confidential and why?

“Before I start answering that question, I would just like to clarify and take accountability because I was not careful with my words earlier. I did not mean it that way. And to answer that question, regarding the transparency—I would like to—regarding sa political mechanisms that we have in every decision is kinakailangan na binabase rin natin 'yung mga provisions sa ating mga constitutions and bylaws, and of course, 'yung mga contracts na ginagawa natin with our partners and para din mas maprotektahan natin hindi lamang 'yung sa atin—sa as a student-leaders na binibigay natin 'yung… Dito natin dino-draw 'yung line natin between having transparency, but at the same time, hino-hold din natin 'yung confidentiality. So by drawing this simple—simple things of reading ang revamping kung ano 'yung mga provisions na pinipirmahan natin—'yung mga meron tayong sinusunod as a student-leader as bounded rin naman tayo sa limitations, kinakailangan na mas ma-uphold natin 'yung mga ganitong values.”

Follow-up question: What do you think—ano sa tingin mo ang ibig-sabihin ng isang transparent na leader?

“Ayan. Sa tingin ko ang pagiging isang transparent na leader ay meron na rin akong values nito. Unang una, ay 'yung pag-take-up rin ng accountability, especially that hindi natin magagawa maging transparent kung hindi natin alam at nakikita kung ano 'yung tama at mali. At aside pa rito, ang pagiging transparent na leader ay wala tayong pinapanigan, given that marami tayong mga pagkakataon na maaaring makaapekto ang sarili nating desisyon, it must be uphold and na hindi lamang tayo—hindi tayo nandito dahil para sa sarili natin, but more on to the promise that we give to students who elected us.”

Context: Panganiban was given a first warning violation by the Equity Board for mentioning campuses which are outside of the candidates’ grounds. In a post-event interview, she clarified that the question was meant to ask tangible and ways as student-leaders to assure students of their service. 

Kadiwa Student Coalition President Goeffrey Lababo

Question: There is a marked decrease in student participation in University politics for example University Elections, FEU Congress, Institutional Parliaments, and University-wide projects that platform students. What are the current incentives for students to participate in University politics? How would you modify these incentives to encourage students to participate in the political process?

“Thank you for that question. As a Political Science student, it is important for us to acknowledge what is the real problem in student apathy. It is for us to reassess whether all of our efforts in terms of developing, in terms of our participation in the University election and even in the national election. As a leader, as a student-leader, and as your next FEUCSO President, it is important for us to address, to leverage all of our problems and assess this kind of problem to have a solution that is very feasible in terms of implementation, feasible enough that [it] can be included in the Nobenta Code of 2025 that amplifies every student representation in terms of voting population na nagkakaroon ng development, nagkakaroon ng approach mula sa academic organization, dahil dito, nakikita natin na ‘yung pagkakaroon ng sapat na plataporma at sapat na boses. Dito, makikita natin na ang Tamaraw community, once again develops in terms of in participatory engagements and specifically community engagements.”

Follow-up question: It’s very important that you detail ‘yung principle, na i-eradicate 'yung student apathy which I also support. Can you give me technical solutions within your GPOA and SPOA that would actually target that specifically since we need to be detail-oriented? 

“In terms of this specific plan of action that we have, it is Tamaraw Guide. The Tamaraw Guide it is a matter of project that we wanted it to emphasize that the leader who would be governing under the Central Student Organization as the president is someone who is also aware in terms  of politics. That’s why nakaangkla, that’s why bitbit natin ‘tong proyekto na ‘to—hetong proyekto na ‘to in empowering every student in terms of political agenda, in terms of politics, in terms of politically aware students and socially aware. It is important for us that this project emphasizes the need for us to participate, emphasizes the development in terms of our efforts to develop the student apathy na nangyayari dito sa ating Pamantasan.”

Follow-up question: Since you mentioned that you’ll be harboring the Tamaraw guide now when it comes to engaging students on the need to participate. Currently kasi, as part of FEUCSO, we have a department already that is doing these campaigns, doing these initiatives. So what will be the difference of this project kung meron namang existing na sa FEUCSO ngayon.

“Thank you, Raezon, it’s actually a good question. As a Central Student Organization, it is important for us that we have this kind of project that strengthens the capacity of the Institute [Student] Councils, the Academic Organizations in terms of developing our approach to the grassroot level. Because dito sa grassroot level, nakikita natin, nadadama natin ‘yung mga kailangan pang gawin. Mga efforts na kailangan pa nating puntahan at lagyan ng boses at dito sa Tamaraw Guide, we acknowledge everyone’s effort to different organizations na meron tayo dito sa Pamatasan. Hence, in that sense, as a Central Student Organization, importante na mas mapalakas pa ang ating effort and also a unified and centralized effort in terms of making the Tamaraw community politically aware.”

Independent President Lawrence Aidan Cunanan

Question: The market for jobs is heavily flawed in the Philippines. Medical and tech experts are competing against an oversupply; while accountants, engineers, and lawyers are being exported out of the country, causing dwindling supply of nation builders. How can the Philippines reshape its value for human capital and ensure that the country has enough nation builders to improve the state of the nation?

“Bilang IHSN student, hindi na po bago sa atin ‘yung marinig na pumunta tayo ng ibang bansa para magkapera tayo. But in the Philippines, we need to first understand that we need to capitalize with our talents as Filipino people. We actually excel in the international borders, but here in the Philippines, hindi natin napagyayabong ‘yung mga oportunidad kaya naghahanap ‘yung mga kapuwa natin Pilipino sa labas. Therefore, as the next FEUCSO president, we will actually support and advocate for this thinking. Kailangan sa loob ng University, we shape the type of thinking that we have as future health-allied professionals, PolSci graduates, as well as other distinct programs inside and outside the Philippines. So, we target inside the University. Kailangan mapalakas natin 'yung edukasyon sa Philippines and opportunities after the University.”

Follow-up question: In connection with the jobs that is happening in the Philippines and in the international countries, what specific plans do you want to do as the FEUCSO president in terms of strengthening the efforts to theTamaraws who are involved in this in this very institution?

“Thank you. So, we need to first understand that we can only do so much in the University. So, bilang FEUCSO president, ang jurisdiction, nasa loob lang ng Unibersidad. So part of ng GPOA ko is the ‘All Out Support FEU’ where we will actually create platforms per student to actually have money para kumita. Businesses or student-owned businesses, they will have [an] opportunity inside the University every activity period para kumita at magnegosyo. Pero bukod pa po rito, ise-streamline natin ang mga position sa loob ng University like student assistant positions that will actually give students actual opportunity na magkaroon ng experience habang nag aaral sila. Because I am also a working student, and I know the struggle.”

Follow-up question: There are no follow-up questions from Gonzales.

Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union President Raezon Gonzales

Question: Research has always been an important part of academic life. Many seniors across the board take pride in their thesis due to the time, work, and efforts poured into them. Public accessibility of these works is something that many academics advocate for due to the aforementioned reasons. As a student leader, how will you aid the call for publicizing the academic works of Tamaraw researchers and re-establishing their importance in society?

“As a student-leader, I know that this is very important that we amplify 'yung mga researches na ginagawa ng mismong FEU students, ng mga Tamaraw students. And as part of Central Student Organization, or as running as your FEUCSO President, we have to continuously hammer on the idea na at meron tayong mga platforms na kung saan nagpro-provide 'yung ating University ng mga free access when it comes to researches. And ito ay currently ginagawa ng ating eskuwelahan ngayon, kasama ito sa ating binibayaran bilang mga estudyante at ang kailangan lamang nating gawin ay is amplify it, is to make students aware na meron po tayong mga ganitong nangyayari, and to also promote with our help of our press relations officer to help publicize this information para rin naman makilala ng mga tao na FEU students could do it too, that FEU student can do researches too and we can do it better.” 

Follow-up question: Thank you for that, Raezon. Actually a clarification, since in terms of researching din, in our University, the currently or only the one publicize is more on the support on the faculty side, and on the part of the students, how can you ensure in terms of having specific programs or I mean research subsidy, in terms of that, be ensured that this kind of research is also manifested in terms of its fully publicizing it without having hesitation and also connection with others?

“Ayan, thank you so much, Gio, for that question. So when it comes to publicizing the different researches of our fellow Tamaraw, of course, hindi naman tayo basta publicize nang publicize lang. We have to consult them also, ano ba 'yung part ng mga researches nila na puwede nating i-disclose? Ano ba 'yung part ng mga researches nila puwede naming i-post as FEUCSO to amplify it? And that answers the question na hindi namin nalilimitahan or hindi namin na-i-invade 'yung mismong privacy ng ating researchers at 'yun po 'yung kailangan natin. We have to make or we have to make data-gathering consultation before we put solutions, kasi po what if hindi pala po ito 'yung kailangan ng ating mga researchers? What if hindi pala po ito 'yung kanilang gusto? And we have to consult them through making connections with them, through talking with them. Ayun lamang po at maraming maraming salamat.”

Follow-up question: In the field of research in Medical Technology, medyo gamit din talaga siya since part of our curriculum is in third year, we actually do our research na. How can we ensure na hindi predatory 'yung mga journals na nahahanap ng mga estudyante to also ensure na, siyempre, may pupuntahan na maayos 'yung mga research-takers natin?

“Thank you, Law, for that question. To ensure na hindi ganun ka-predatory 'yung mga pupuntahan ng researches ng ating mga estudyante; first, we have to consult with the admin, as a student-leaders, hindi naman po talaga namin sakop 'yung pagkakaroon or when in comes to having researches. Ang sakop lang po namin is how can we make it amplified, how can we help mismo 'yung researchers natin and to make it really possible? Kailangan po natin kumausap sa iba’t ibang departamento, kasi po ang mga gumagawa po ng mga researches natin, different departments po natin. And as I have mentioned po kanina, we have to consult them. Hindi po puwedeng bigay nang bigay tayo ng solusyon, dapat po 'yung solusyon natin is on the common ground between us. As student-leader, the mismong researches itself and the administration itself kasi po there are different data privacy policies na kailangan po nating i-consider when it comes on making these platforms. Ayun lamang po at maraming maraming salamat.”

CLOSING SPEECHES

Kadiwa Student Coalition President Goeffrey Lababo

“Sa ilang taon nating pag-iikot dito sa Pamantasan, nakita at nakilala natin ang bawat estudyante na kailangan nating isama sa bawat laban dahil sila ay kabilang sa ipaglalaban ng FEUCSO ngayong taon. We have seen every students, every Tamaraw students fighting for their own advocacies, fighting for their life, fighting for their education. Ngayong taon, sinisigurado at sinigurado na natin na kabilang ang bawat isa. We’ve seen Anj, a working student who technically found herself difficult in paying her tuition fees; kasama natin si Gem na nahirapan in terms of commuting dahil sa mainit na panahon; kasama din po natin si Raj dahil nahirapan din siya sa pagbabayad ng matrikula—ito lamang ang mga daily struggles na kinakaharap ng bawat Tamaraw students. Ngayong taon, kabilang ang IAS, IARFA, IABF, IE, IHSN, ITHM, hanggang FEU Makati, kabilang sila… kabilang sila sa pinaglalaban. At ngayong taon, bilang Sentral na Organisasyon, kasama ang buong Kadiwa Student Coalition; Teodoro, mula sa IAS; Caharian mula sa IABF; Bañas mula sa ITHM; Alburo mula sa IHSN; at kasama natin ang 90th FEUCSO officers; Sotes, P.R.O.; Macatangay, Auditor; De Guzman, Treasurer; Nambatac, Secretary; Diumano, Vice President; at ang inyong batang lingkod-bayan na tumatayo ngayon ay inyong susunod na FEUCSO President. At ang hiling natin ngayon, isa lamang po bilang ang bawat isa. Maraming salamat.”

Independent President Lawrence Aidan Cunanan

“Tamaraws, maraming salamat po sa tatlong taon na hinayaan niyo akong makapagserbisyo sa inyo. Mula sa ibaba hanggang sa [Institute] Student Council at FEUCSO, naging parte po tayo ng sistema. Nakita natin ang problema at bilang tatlong taong naging executive board, we planted a sense of change internally and externally. At bilang independent FEUCSO President, hindi po tayo nag-iisa because as a president, we will redefine the culture and essence of FEU student leadership. Solution is, and will be, at the forefront of our leadership and presidency. Ako po si Lawrence Aidan Cunanan, the only independent FEUCSO President, malaya at may tiwalang ineendorso ang aking Bise Presidente, Adrian Diumano; Sekretarya, Christian Nambatac; Treasurer, Katherine Nicolas; Auditor, Margarette Macatangay; at P.R.O., Kiel Paquita. Ito ang malaya at may tiwalang FEUCSO. Malaya sa kulay, may tiwala sa malinis na politika. Once in FEU’s history, there is someone who stood here, malaya, walang kulay, walang makinarya, walang magarbong pinanggalingan, walang tinatago, puso lamang. Your next FEUCSO President is an IHSN student, a fourth-year MedTech Intern, an Institute Student Council president, and a working student—and most importantly, he is free, fueled by his faith, an independent FEUCSO President, the only IHSN student to vie for FEUCSO President. I am Law, a leader, an advocate, a warrior.”

Isanliyab Servant Leaders’ Union President Raezon Gonzales

“I was there and I never left. I was there with the WRP issues that challenged us students. I was there when we stood up against the campaign on tuition fee increase. I was there when we launched different initiatives to have a vibrant and commendable FEU student experience. But I wasn't just there as a witness, I was there as a worker, I was there as a listener, and I was there as a leader. Together, we [can make] a community that is data-driven and student-centered which came from your different concern forms or survey results and the pieces of feedback that you shared. But this goes beyond this—our fight doesn't end [within] our campus. As members of Isanliyab, as members of Kadiwa, as members of Tanglawtala, we carry more than just our own campaigns. But we carry a shared responsibility to elect and vote for leaders who [will be] shaping our nation. Mas magniningning ang bukas kung bilang ang bawat isa. And with that, we will TamaRise together. So Tamaraws, meet your leaders on the rise: our rising FEUCSO [P.R.O.], Sean Michael; our rising FEUCSO Auditor, Kemuel Mabalot; our rising FEUCSO Treasurer, Katherine Nicolas; our rising FEUCSO Secretary, Ivy Grace Bisnar; our rising Vice President, Monika Panganiban. Kasama rin po natin sa laban na ito ang ating Institute Student Councils. Kasama po natin ang ating IAS Student Council na si Kyte Percia. Again, I am Raezon Gonzales, your 90th FEUCSO President.”

END OF THE FEU STUDENT ELECTIONS 2025 GRAND DEBATE

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