The word "inclusion” echoes frequently within our halls. But what does it truly mean to the Benildean community? It goes beyond mere acceptance. It's about making sure every student feels wanted and supported, with their views recognized. It means that the care for students is always on top of every administrative decision.
When the well-being of students is given top priority by school administrators, it can lead to significant changes. Imagine a school where students' worries are dealt with proactively, prioritizing their safety and happiness. In such an environment, productivity soars, and school spirit becomes infectious.
On Sept. 20, transport groups PISTON and MANIBELA announced a nationwide strike on Sept. 23-24, protesting the government's Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP). Manibela Chairman Mr. Mar Valbuena and PISTON's National President Mr. Mody Floranda estimated the participation of 100,000 drivers and operators nationwide, with 30,000 in the National Capital Region.
The strike is in protest of the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP), particularly the lapsed deadline for PUV franchise consolidation, which essentially phases out traditional jeepneys. The participating groups are demanding changes to the modernization program and seek better support for drivers and operators.
Many Philippine Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) switched to online mode on Sept. 23. Some of these institutions are found in Manila's bustling districts such as De La Salle University, University of Santo Tomas, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Adamson University, Arellano University, Far Eastern University, and others. These decisions by their administration conveyed the seriousness of student welfare while continuing to learn uncompromisingly about safety and accessibility. Students felt their voices were being heard and valued; thus, they became motivated and interested in the class.
In contrast, Benilde chose to push through with face-to-face classes despite the strike. The decision of the College’s Suspension Group, though possibly made with good intentions, made the students feel ignored and frustrated.
The rationale behind
In an interview with The Benildean, Chancellor Benhur Ong shared that there are complex factors considered in this decision. While acknowledging student concerns, he emphasized the importance of face-to-face learning, especially for programs with laboratory components.
"Our decision to resume face-to-face classes was based on careful monitoring of the situation of the transportations strike and consideration for the holistic learning process, especially for programs with laboratory components. While we acknowledge the challenges some students face in commuting, the limited impact of the strike on overall transportation led us to prioritize in-person learning,” he explained.
The Chancellor's openness to including student representation in future decision-making processes suggests a willingness to bridge the gap between administrative decisions and student realities.
“I appreciate the Benilde CSG's constituent check report, which provided valuable insights into student experiences. Moving forward, we're exploring ways to include student representation in decision-making processes regarding class suspensions or shifts to online modality. It's crucial that we maintain open dialogue and make decisions that balance academic needs with student welfare,” the Chancellor added.
Meanwhile, Mr. Levi Albania, Dean of the Center for Student Life (CSL), shared in an online interview with The Benildean the importance of continuity in learning experiences, while acknowledging the diverse perspectives within the Benildean community.
“Our student government proactively recommended this transition over the weekend, demonstrating our community's commitment to supporting one another,” Mr. Albania shared.
He encouraged Benildeans to engage more directly with official channels and participate in constituency checks to ensure their voices are heard accurately and constructively.
“We encourage all Benildeans to engage more actively in campus life. This includes participating in constituency checks conducted by the Student Government, sharing your concerns and suggestions, and collaborating with accredited and recognized student organizations. Moreover, we advocate for self-advocacy among peers and professors,” the CSL Dean said.
The realities we endure
The safety risks of traveling during a transportation strike are legitimate, and the pressure of locating different paths can be daunting. In desperation to reach classes on time, students might resort to risky behavior where they might attempt to "sabit" (hang on the outside of a moving vehicle) on an overcrowded bus along Taft Avenue, putting themselves at serious risk of injury. Alternatively, they might opt for motorcycles that offer “habal-habal services,” which, while faster, expose them to greater danger.
It is during times like these that we desire a leadership that truly represents the value of inclusion that considers Benildeans of different economic backgrounds. Productivity dips as students grapple with external stressors that could have been mitigated. The emotional toll can be significant, leading to increased anxiety and decreased focus in class.
Let us consider a Benildean commuting from Quezon City to Manila, whose typical hour-and-a-half journey can balloon to a staggering three hours during transport strikes. A combination of fatigue and stress significantly impairs their ability to focus and participate effectively in morning classes. The emotional toll of these daily challenges leads to increased anxiety and decreased engagement, ultimately resulting in a noticeable dip in academic performance.
Consider the current predicament facing Benildean students: They must navigate the challenges of Metro Manila's notorious traffic and the scarcity of accessible transportation during the strike. It's crucial to recognize that not all Benildeans have the privilege of booking Transportation Network Vehicle Services (TNVS) like Grab, Angkas, Moveit, or Joyride. The majority still depend heavily on the limited public transportation available to reach the College.
This disparity exacerbates stress for members of the community. Students grapple with the anxiety of finding reliable transportation, the fear of tardiness, or the possibility of missing classes entirely. This cloud of worry follows them into the classroom, potentially impacting their focus and engagement. Under such circumstances, how can we reasonably expect students to perform at their best academically? The situation highlights a clear need for the administration to consider the diverse economic backgrounds of its student body when making decisions that affect commuting and class attendance.
It's with a mix of pride and frustration that we reflect on Benilde's recent recognition. We were the only institution in the Philippines to rank in Times Higher Education for SDG10, a testament to our commitment to reducing inequalities. In response to Benilde’s ranking for Reduced Inequalities, Br. Edmundo Fernandez FSC shared a message: "Benilde is actively working towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society, which is essential for sustainable development. This recognition substantiates our tireless efforts in helping build a just and humane society by ensuring that quality education is accessible to the poor and diversely gifted learners."
These words are powerful and inspiring. But actions speak louder than accolades. True inclusion means listening to the concerns of students and taking action to address them. It means prioritizing the welfare of everyone.
Our intention is not to criticize, but to encourage the administration to put student well-being first—with compassion and dedication. We are not requesting that classes be canceled, but rather for a temporary switch to online learning during situations such as the current transportation strike. This slight adjustment would greatly affect students facing safety worries and transportation challenges.
Benilde has shown its dedication to inclusion on an international level. We are not asking for something unattainable. We're just asking our leaders to empathize with us. Picture the sense of relief and appreciation students would experience if Benilde decided to switch temporarily to online classes amidst the strike. Sending a strong message would have been accomplished: "Your voice is recognized. We care about your safety and well-being.” As students, we understand that decision-making can be challenging, yet we believe that the priority should be the welfare of the student body. Ultimately, is that not the true core of real inclusiveness?
Inclusion, similar to change, is an ongoing journey of understanding and empathy. It calls for communication, empathy, and openness to change at every turn. Benilde is not just a champion of inclusion on paper, but, more importantly, in practice. Let's turn those inspiring words into tangible actions that focus on the welfare of every Benildean.
After all, isn't that what real inclusion is all about?
