By Mark Vincent A. Durano

Far Eastern University Central Student Organization (FEUCSO) and Institute Student Councils (SC) formed a networking group chat ‘Bantay Tamaraw,’ aimed to provide quick responses during calamities among FEU student dormers announced today, November 17.

In an interview with FEU Advocate, FEUCSO President Christmer Roland Ordanes observed that the University’s bureaucratic processes often halt in providing emergency-related projects. 

“Typically, there’s a 14-day lead time for project proposals. Although now, there are guidelines for ‘Acts of God’ projects, we still believe calamities like typhoons require quick action within 24-48 hours because lives are at risk,” he said.

Bantay Tamaraw will provide a communication channel where student-leaders can monitor situations, connect with authorities, and leverage networks for assistance.

Students can share their current conditions based on sending prompts that show whenever they are flooded, need rescue or medical assistance, have no food stocks or power, have extra supplies to share, or quick weather updates.

“These prompts will help us stay organized and will also serve as references for future dialogues with the administration,” Ordanes added.

Prior to the project, FEUCSO usually conducts a TamsCheck Situationer Survey to provide data to the University, assessing when a recovery period is needed.

“Additionally, this term, we're working to strengthen how we support not just the FEU community, but also the broader community beyond the campus. We're focusing on solidarity and finding ways to be more connected and responsive,” the president added.

FEUCSO also chose to create a communication channel for its accessibility, even for students who only have free data.

Student dormers from FEU Manila and Makati can join through the link the organization posted.

Ordanes also stressed on having clear communication in making informed decisions and efficient coordination. 

Moreover, the president described the disaster risk reduction and management in the country to be reactive rather than proactive.

“There’s a tendency to rely on the bayanihan and resilience of the people, which, while admirable, shouldn’t be the only solution. Our government needs to take more proactive measures in preparing for disasters, improving early warning systems, and implementing effective mitigation strategies,” he said.

Bayanihan is also said to be sometimes abused and used by the government to cover up the lack of a comprehensive and efficient response system during disasters.

The FEUCSO president then urged students to support each other amid the state of calamity responses in the Philippines and to hold the government accountable.

“This sense of togetherness shouldn’t end after the calamity passes. It’s important to hold the government accountable for better disaster management programs, including efforts to address the root causes of environmental disasters, such as illegal mining, logging, and quarrying, which only worsen the effects of typhoons and floods,” the FEUCSO president stated.

He also emphasized on forwarding more sustainable and proactive environmental practices in reducing long-term impacts of natural disasters.

Last night, FEUCSO announced their participation in the National Union of Students of the Philippines and Tulong Kabataan’s Campus to Communities, a campaign that mobilizes SCs and organizations to form a network that can easily provide help during crises.

(Photo courtesy of FEUCSO official Facebook page)