TACLOBAN CITY- A protest rally staged by the students from the University of the Philippines (UP) – Tacloban Campus turned violent as they were dispersed by an anti- riot unit of the city police here on the night of August 16.
The protesters, who just attended the 57th General Assembly of Student Councils here, held their rally at the old bus terminal here where a McDonald’s outlet is located.
The order reportedly issued by Col. Michael Palermo, the city police director.
The students were forced to scatter, extending their protest to Justice Romualdez Street in the city where RTR Plaza, considered as the city’s freedom park, is located.
A representative from the UP Mindanao Council was arrested, and another student fainted during the commotion, lying on the street. The students brought the victim to a city.
This incident marks the first mass action in the city since the arrest of the “Tacloban 5” four years ago.
UP students claimed that the Tacloban Police used excessive force, including batons, during the dispersal.
“We anticipated a dispersal, but we did not expect such a disproportionate use of force by the police, especially since it was a peaceful rally focused on issues directly affecting people’s livelihoods,” a student said.
The student leaders called for free, accessible, and quality education, emphasizing concerns about the expected budget cuts to the UP System under the 2025 National Expenditure Program of the Marcos Jr. administration.
They also demanded the release of three UP graduates, known as the “Tacloban 5,” who were allegedly illegally arrested in 2020 and remain imprisoned on trumped-up charges under the Anti-Terrorism Law.
Despite the valid issues raised by the students, the police were determined to file charges against them and pressured them to release the names of all student rally participants.
Kabataan Partylist Representative Raoul Manuel, one of the plenary speakers at the GASC, responded to the situation and called for the unconditional return of the students to the UP campus. He stated:
“I don’t know what the police are trying to prove, but we know that the NTF-ELCAC is extremely paranoid about young people expressing themselves, even on social media. They are so paranoid, and even more so when young people physically gather to bring their concerns, he said.
After an hour of negotiations with the police, the protesters were released on the condition that they refrain from participating in any political gatherings or encouraging others to rally. (JAZMIN BONIFACIO)

Catarman, Northern Samar –In a bid to foster education and bring joy to the young learners in the community, the District Engineers League of the Philippines (DELP), in partnership with the Northern Samar First District Employees Association (NSFEDEA), successfully distributed school supplies to 135 elementary students from Brgy. Guba and Brgy. Salvacion, both located in the municipality of Catarman, on August 16, 2024.

The students, who ranged from Grades 1 to 6, were delighted to receive essential school supplies, including coloring books, crayons, scissors, papers, ballpens, ruler among others. To add to the festive atmosphere, each student was also treated to a Jollibee meal pack, which brought smiles and excitement as they eagerly anticipated using their new resources.

District Engineer Alvin A. Ignacio, who led the distribution, emphasized that the initiative was intended to provide students with essential tools for their studies and to inspire them to achieve more.

The initiative was warmly received by the teachers of both schools, who expressed their appreciation for the support provided to their students.

“We are deeply grateful for this generous gesture. Many of our students come from families with limited means, and our remote location makes transportation costs quite high.

Providing school supplies has been a significant challenge. This assistance is incredibly impactful, ensuring that our students have the necessary tools to succeed in their studies. The school supplies and Jollibee packs brought immense joy to our students, many of whom experienced Jollibee snacks for the first time and were thrilled by the treat.” said Teacher Ana Liza T. Recare of Guba Elementary school.

Assistant District Engineer Vivian G. Biaco and section chiefs also participated in the event, engaging with students and assisting with the distribution.

This activity is part of DELP and NSFEDEA’s ongoing efforts to give back to the community and support educational initiatives that benefit local schools and students.
(ANALIZA A. PABIA, PIO Designate/PR)