𝗖𝗔𝗦𝗦 𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗹𝘆 𝗮𝗱𝗱𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝘀𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗿𝗻𝘀

Report by Ellyza Gutierrez | Photos by Chino Brendon Tangonan

College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS) students gathered at the TSU Gymnasium for the assembly led by College Dean, Dr. Aloysius Mardiaga, alongside the Parents’ and Student Council, last Tuesday, October 29, 2024.

The assembly served as a platform for important announcements regarding the Parents’ Council Fee, uniform changes, the haircut policy, and other student concerns.

Parents’ Council President Meynard Buena addressed the 150-peso per semester fee, a topic of controversy last year. He explained that the funds collected were used to support student activities and other events, including the intramurals, foundation week, and CASS Socials.

Moreover, the Parents’ Council vowed to maintain transparency by releasing a financial report detailing the collection and expenditure of the funds. They assured students that the money would ultimately benefit them.

“Sisiguraduhin namin sa inyo na every single centavo counts dahil iyan ay babalik din para sa kabutihan niyo. We assure you that we are after your welfare,” said Parents’ Council Vice President Lina Apolonio.

Parents Council officers are also proposing to reinstate the 300-peso fee per semester, A letter addressed to students' parents or guardians will be distributed, allowing them to vote on whether to accept the new fee or continue with the current 150-peso fee per semester.

Meanwhile, Governor Alexander Ong expressed hope for a stronger connection between the Student Council and the Parents’ Council, envisioning increased collaboration this academic year.

“Sana magkaroon this year yung established connection or relationship between the student council na nagrerepresenta sa bawat boses ng mga estudyante, at sa parents council na siya ring stakeholder ng unibersidad na ito.” Gov Ong stated.

Regarding the new proposed uniform, Gov. Ong announced the modifications made to address the perceived impracticalities of the initial design. He also stated that a poll would be conducted to determine whether students prefer to include or exclude the vest in the new uniform.

Dean Madriaga clarified that incoming students will be expected to wear the new uniform, while current students may continue wearing the original.

Furthermore, upon hearing students’ concern regarding the uniform schedule, Dean Madriaga has updated the college’s uniform policy, declaring that on Saturdays, students are permitted to wear any university shirt.

Dean Madriaga also informed students that a meeting is scheduled with the Vice President of Academic Affairs and the Council of Deans to discuss the specific guidelines for haircuts, hair color, and piercings.

The outcome of the meeting will determine the official policies. However, he emphasized that unnatural hair colors remain strictly prohibited.