18/04/2024
๐๐บ๐ฝ๐ผ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ง๐ผ๐บ๐ผ๐ฟ๐ฟ๐ผ๐: ๐๐๐น๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ฎ๐ป ๐ฆ๐๐ฎ๐๐ฒ ๐จ๐ป๐ถ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ๐๐ถ๐๐-๐๐ฎ๐ด๐ผ๐ป๐ผ๐ ๐๐ฎ๐บ๐ฝ๐๐' ๐ ๐ถ๐๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐๐ฒ ๐๐๐ฎ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ
The highly anticipated Miting De Avance commenced precisely at 2:00 in the afternoon on April 17, 2024, greeted with enthusiasm by all in attendance. Serving as hosts were the skilled masters of ceremony, Mark Justine J. Torres and Clarissa G. Paredes. The event commenced with a heartfelt prayer led by Juan Karol J. Sumera, followed by the national anthem of the Philippines and the Bulacan State University Hymn.
Following the opening ceremonies, Leona Bedra Dela Cruz, the Local Commissioner, was supposed to deliver the welcome remarks, but she experienced technical difficulties at her end. Nevertheless, the stage was set for the introduction of the official candidates of BulSUOne. Among them were Christopher N. De Guzman, whose mantra "Tumutulong anytime, anywhere" resonated with the audience, and Ivan John A. Lopez, who rallied the crowd with the call "Halina't ipapanalo na natin ang boses ng iskolar ng bayan." The lineup also included Merlyn Marie N. Villanueva, Gregorio M. Sunga, Lhairish Anne Arellano, and Kurt Enrykx Naguit.
During the presentation of the General Plan of Action, Christopher set the tone with an inclusive and forward-thinking approach, emphasizing the administration's commitment to assisting every student ("Makakatulong sa bawat iskolar ng bayan") and promoting open and participatory governance ("Bukas na pamamahala, open recommendation at malayang pamamahala"). Inspired by Christopher's vision, Ivan John stressed the importance of open-mindedness, "Bukas na puso, isip at komunikasyon". He proposed initiatives such as surveys, consultations, and webinars to address student needs and promote good governance.
Merlyn Villanueva resonated with Christopher's sentiment by declaring, "Lagi't lagi kayo ang sentro," affirming the central role of students and advocating for inclusivity, gender equality, and indigenous representation. She emphasized the need to foster stronger connections with student organizations to better serve the diverse needs of the student body.
Turning to the realm of sports and athletics, Gregorio M. Sunga Jr. passionately declared, โTuloy ang laban para sa sports at pampalakasan,โ highlighting the vital role of sports in university life. He committed to supporting athletes and pledged to provide opportunities for them to showcase their talents. Gregorio emphasized the importance of recognizing athletes' experiences and ensuring their holistic development.
Finally, Kurt Naguit addressed the critical issue of security and peace, stating, โTuloy ang laban para sa seguridad at kapayapaan.โ He underscored the need to maintain a safe and peaceful campus environment conducive to learning and growth. Kurt's dedication to safeguarding the well-being of students and staff reflects the university's commitment to providing a nurturing community for all its members.
As anticipation mounted, the floor was opened for the Question and Answer portion, led by Jeoffrey Reinhart B. Teodoro, Editor-In-Chief of Piscatores, who posed questions to the candidates. They were allowed to engage, with the flexibility to pass if needed, all within the confines of a 2-minute timer.
Their responses showcased a commitment to student welfare and effective governance. They addressed concerns about the rising heat index, emphasizing the importance of continuing online classes and verifying information to combat misinformation on social media. Discussions also delved into issues of inclusivity, with candidates pledging to listen to student voices and work closely with the administration to address concerns. Moreover, they highlighted the significance of transparency in handling funds and ensuring equal access to education, regardless of social status. Strategies to handle disagreements within the council focused on collaboration and effective communication.
The candidates also outlined plans to bridge divides between campuses and address harassment issues. Discussions on ratings underscored the importance of actively listening to student concerns, fostering transparency, and prioritizing the holistic welfare of students. Overall, candidates conveyed a strong dedication to serving the student body with integrity and diligence, emphasizing the need for inclusivity, transparency, and collaboration in their governance approach.
In her closing remarks, delivered by Christopher as she couldn't attend, Piel Rona Dela Cruz, the LSC Governor, conveyed a message of resilience and determination in the face of evolving circumstances. Despite the challenges brought by changing times, she emphasized the unwavering commitment to provide BulSUans with the services they deserve. Dela Cruz expressed confidence in the student body's ability to confront and overcome these challenges, highlighting the long journey ahead. Her message concluded with a poignant reminder: "Mula sa estudyante para sa estudyante", encapsulating the essence of student leadership and unity. Following Dela Cruz's message, the masters of the ceremony concluded the Miting De Avance, which was followed by the Bulacan State University March.
The Miting De Avance despite being held online featured a diverse range of candidates dedicated to prioritizing student welfare and promoting effective governance. With promises of inclusivity, transparency, and collaboration, these candidates offer hope for a brighter future as they strive to serve their fellow students with integrity and dedication.
Written by: Aaliyah Gracia Beseral
Contributors: Patricia Mae Taylo and Jairah Kylle Santos
Visual by: Jessica Mae Miranda
