The University of the Philippines stands firmly by the constitutionally protected rights of its students and the broader academic community to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association. These rights are essential to a vibrant democracy.
The University supports its students who exercise their rights within legal and constitutional bounds. We are extending assistance to Mr. Joaquin Buenaflor, Chairperson of the University Student Council of UP Diliman, and other members of our academic community who may be in need of support while exercising their fundamental freedoms.
The University is open to coordination with all state agencies to achieve a peaceful and lawful resolution to matters arising from the recent anti-corruption protests, founded on respect for the Constitution.
In joining the public’s indignation against corruption, our students were exercising a civic duty. Lawful actions in pursuit of public accountability and good governance help preserve our democratic institutions and uphold the rule of law.
As the national university, we will continue to defend the rights of our community, to uphold the principles of honor and excellence, and to stand with the Filipino people in the pursuit of truth, justice, and democratic governance.
ANGELO A. JIMENEZ
President, University of the Philippines
