DAVAO CITY (MindaNews / 25 Sept) — Amid ongoing congressional investigations into controversial flood-control projects, universities and colleges in the city have condemned corruption, with their constituents engaging in various protest actions in recent days. Students from the University of the Philippines – Mindanao (UP Min) and the University of Southeastern Philippines (USEP) participated in the National Day of Protests on Sept. 21 at Freedom Park, decrying budget cuts for state universities and expressing concerns over losing scholarships and deteriorating school facilities. They believe the budget cuts were redirected to confidential funds and flood control projects. Jay Lozano, convenor of UP Mindanao Rise for Education, stated that the government budget reflects neglect in education. Meanwhile, Ateneo de Davao University students staged a walkout on Tuesday, flooding Roxas Avenue to protest the flood control scandal and widespread government corruption. Judge Hinojale, vice president of the Samahan ng Mga Mag-Aaral ng Pamantasang Ateneo de Davao, called for accountability, urging students from other institutions to join the movement. AdDU also displayed a banner reading “Fight for Truth, Jail the Corrupt, and Restore Integrity.” Holy Cross of Davao College held a two-day forum on corruption, where student Kristine Magada emphasized the youth’s role in inspiring change. Other Catholic universities, including San Pedro College, which conducted a prayer and procession, and the University of the Immaculate Conception, which released a statement urging truth and accountability, also protested against corruption. (Daniel Jamito / MindaNews)
