De La Salle University Student Council P.L.A.R. No. 2005-02-32 Legislative Assembly Status: Approved

Resolution No. 2006-33

Sponsored by: The Students’ Rights and Welfare Committee

Noelle Arcinue, FAST 2002 Feona Hebrio, EdGE 2004 Madeleine Balane, BnE 2007 Nicole Keys, FOCUS 2003 Nikko de Castro, FAST 2005 Gwen Tattao, FOCUS 2004 Karlo Dumaup, FOCUS 2003 Christine Violago, FAST 2004 Marga Eusebio, EdGE 2005 MJ Yap, Catch2T7

RESOLUTION CALLING FOR THE APPROVAL OF THE PROPOSED REVISIONS

FOR THE STUDENT’S CHARTER Whereas, the main role of the Student Council is to ensure that the rights and welfare of

all students are always upheld and promoted (Appendix F, DLSU Student’s Handbook);

Whereas, students have the right to participate in policy making (De La Salle University

Students’ Charter, Chapter IV); Whereas, the Student Council, being the sole and the highest representative of the

student body and being the highest form of expression of student power on campus, shall have the right to participate in the formation of school policies directly affecting the students (De La Salle University Students’ Charter, Sec. 3.d, Student Handbook 2003-2006);

Whereas, the Legislative Assembly’s Students’ Rights and Welfare Committee was

tasked to propose revisions for Appendix H (The Student’s Charter) for the Student Handbook Revisions Committee (Resolution No. 2005-03).

Wherefore, be it resolved that the Legislative Assembly approve the drafted Student

Charter amendments; Wherefore, be it finally resolved that the Student Council President and Student Council

Vice President for Academics be tasked to lobby the aforementioned revisions to the Student Handbook Revisions Committee and/or to the Student Charter’s intended signatories upon its approval by the Legislative Assembly.

Adopted, January 18, 2006

1

Appendix H:

Student’s Charter

ORIGINAL PROPOSED REMARKS

Section 1. Title Section 1. Title Number changed

This document shall be known as the Students’ Charter of De La Salle University, 2401 Taft Avenue, Manila.

This document shall be known as the Students’ Charter of De La Salle University, 2401 Taft Avenue, Manila.

Retained

Chapter 1. General Principles Chapter I. General Principles Retained Section 2. Declaration of Policy. It is hereby declared that:

Section 2. Declaration of Policy. It is hereby declared that:

Retained

a. The mission of De La Salle University is to “to motivate and influence the members of its academic community, especially its students, to become whole persons by providing a Lasallian education and by promoting the values exemplified by St. John Baptist de La Salle.”

2.1. The mission of De La Salle University is to “to motivate and influence the members of its academic community, especially its students, to become whole persons by providing a Lasallian education and by promoting the values exemplified by St. John Baptist de La Salle.”

Number changed

b. The members of the academic community recognize the students’ right to participate actively and effectively in the democratic processes of effectuating progressive and developmental changes within the University.

2.2. The members of the academic community recognize the students’ right to participate actively and effectively in the democratic processes of effectuating progressive and developmental changes within the University.

Number changed

2.3 The University recognizing its duty to the nation shall offer relevant and scientific academic programs, research and teaching activities that will contribute to national development. The University shall produce graduates that can be of service to the nation, cultivating the capacity for national progress and development, thus establishing a more progressive Filipino society.

Style; Taken and rephrased from Chapter III Section 5

Section 3. Guiding Principles. Section 3. Guiding Principles. Retained The De La Salle University Students’ Charter hereby declares the following as its basic guiding principles:

The De La Salle University Students’ Charter hereby declares the following as its basic guiding principles:

Retained

a. Lasallian education, being the primary means by which knowledge, skills, and values are imparted to the students, shall be given priority and full attention by all members of the academic community.

3.1. Lasallian education, being the primary means by which knowledge, skills, and values are imparted to the students, shall be given priority and full attention by all members of the academic community.

Number changed

3.2 The intrinsic value of the student as a person stands above other values. The personal right and dignity of individuals shall be held inviolate; it shall take precedence over any academic goal set by the University.

Added provision

3.3 With their democratic rights Number changed

2

guaranteed, students shall serve as a potent and cogent force in the country’s nationalist social transformation.

3.4 The student shall be considered at all times a responsible person. He or she shall, therefore, be encouraged to make informed decisions with respect to his or her own education and to be involved in school decisions to the fullest extent possible.

Added provision

3.5 The pursuit of academic excellence and exercise of academic freedom can be attained only in an atmosphere free from fear and unreasonable restraint.

Added provision

3.6 Unity and collective effort being fundamental to the realization of common objectives and the promotion and protection of common interest, the University recognizes the importance of developing creative and responsible student leaders who will eventually assume the mantle of leadership in their chosen fields of endeavor.

Added provision

b. Student organizations shall develop in line with the Lasallian Mission Statement and enhance democratic processes on campus. Membership and active participation in student organizations, alliances, and federations which promote and protect student rights and welfare and/or contribute to national development shall be guaranteed by the Student Council and the school authorities.

Omitted; moved to

c. Student organizations shall not be subject to rules and regulations that unduly hamper their activities and are prejudicial to their objectives and interests, provided that such objectives are aligned with the University’s mission.

Omitted; moved to

d. The student Council, being the sole and the highest representative of the student body and being the highest form of expression of student power on campus, shall have the right to participate in the formation of school policies directly affecting the students.

Omitted; moved to

e. Student publications shall serve as the principal medium for free and responsible expression, dissemination of information, and interaction among the different sectors of the academic community.

Omitted; moved to

f. With their democratic rights guaranteed, students shall serve as a potent and cogent force in the country’s nationalist social

Number changed

3

transformation. Section 4. Definition of Terms Section 4. Definition of Terms Retained a. Student organizations – is an organization whose composed mainly of students as members and as heads. b. Academic community – is composed of the University Administration, the faculty, the non-teaching staff, and the students. c. Dean of Student Affairs – is the individual responsible for the direct coordination and integration of a comprehensive program for the Student Personnel Services adopted by the University and administered in its several colleges. d. Student Disciplinary Board – handles all student disciplinary cases and is composed of a faculty member, a student, an administrator, and a chairperson who must be a member of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines. e. President’s Council of Representatives – is a council composed of the heads or representatives of all sectors within the University whose functions are (1) to act as the channel through which matters relevant to the operations of the educational institution are presented; and (2) to assist the President in the preparation of matters which he would submit to the Executive Finance Committee of the Board of Trustees. f. Trisectoral Council – is a group composed of student representatives, the faculty, and the Administration which deals with and deliberates on pressing matters affecting the University. g. College Council – is a body within each college whose function is to assist the college dean in the formulation of college academic policies. h. University Library Council – is a group composed of library personnel and a student representative whose main function is to improve library services. i. Student Personnel Services Council – is a body composed of the directors of the Student Personnel Services, the Chairperson of the Council of Student Organizations, the Chairperson of the Council of Editors, and the President of the Student Council with the Dean of Student Affairs as presiding officer which deliberates o matters concerning the improvement of the

4.1. Student organizations – is an organization which is composed mainly of students as members and as heads. 4.2. Academic community – is composed of the University Administration, the faculty, the non-teaching staff, and the students. 4.3. Dean of Student Affairs – is the individual responsible for the direct coordination and integration of a comprehensive program for the Student Personnel Services adopted by the University and administered in its several colleges. 4.4. Student Disciplinary Board – It handles all student discipline cases and subdivided into two hearing boards. The Student Discipline Board have jurisdiction over all major offenses involving students should there be incomplete or qualified admission while the University Panel for Case Conference have its jurisdiction over all major offenses wherein the students have complete admission. It is composed of a faculty member, a student, an administrator and a chairperson who is a member of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines. 4.5. President’s Council of Representatives – is a council composed of the heads or representatives of all sectors within the University whose functions are (1) to act as the channel through which matters relevant to the operations of the educational institution are presented; and (2) to assist the President in the preparation of matters which he would submit to the Executive Finance Committee of the Board of Trustees. 4.6. Trisectoral Council – is a group composed of student representatives, the faculty, and the Administration which deals with and deliberates on pressing matters affecting the University. 4.7. College Council – This council is a body within each college whose function is to assist the college dean in the formulation of college programs, flowcharts and academic policies. 4.8. University Library Council – is a group composed of library personnel and a student representative whose main function is to improve library services.

Number changed

4

services that the Student Personnel Service offers to the community. j. Mission Statement Executive Committee – plans, decides, and coordinates with the various sectors of the University in preparation for the Mission Statement Week. k. Multi-Sectoral Committee on Budget – is a body, which discusses and decides on matters regarding tuition and which is composed of student representatives, the Administration, the faculty, the non-teaching staff, and parents. l. Honors and Awards Committee – is the committee composed of all the deans and a student representative with the Registrar as chair which decides on the recipients of special graduation awards. m. Handbook Revisions Committee – is the group that a body that deliberates and recommends to the Council of Deans proposed revisions to the Student Handbook for the succeeding year and whose members include representatives from Administration, the student body, and the faculty with the Dean of Student Affairs as chair. n. Board of Trustees – is the highest policy-making body of the University which decides on policies that will direct the University to tits envisioned goal, determines fundamental policies of the education institution, oversees the immediate and long-range plans for the improvement of academic programs, and supervises the overall expansion and development of the educational institution. o. Convention of Leaders – a body composed of representatives of all the organizations in the University, which serves as an advisory body to the Student Council President.

4.9. Student Personnel Services Council – is a body composed of the directors of the Student Personnel Services, the Chairperson of the Council of Student Organizations, the Chairperson of the Council of Editors, and the President of the Student Council with the Dean of Student Affairs as presiding officer which deliberates o matters concerning the improvement of the services that the Student Personnel Service offers to the community. 4.10. Mission Statement Executive Committee – This committee plans, decides and coordinates with the various sectors of the University in preparation for the Mission Statement Week. 4.11. Multi-Sectoral Committee on Budget – is a body, which discusses and decides on matters regarding tuition and which is composed of student representatives, the Administration, the faculty, the non-teaching staff, and parents. 4.12. Honors, Awards and Graduation Committee -- This committee is the judge who decides on the recipients of special graduation awards. It also formulates and revises criteria of the special graduation awards. 4.13. Student Handbook Revisions Committee – is the group that a body that deliberates and recommends to the Council of Deans proposed revisions to the Student Handbook for the succeeding year and whose members include representatives from Administration, the student body, and the faculty with the Dean of Student Affairs as chair. 4.14. Board of Trustees -- is the highest policy-making body of the University which decides on policies that will direct the University to its envisioned goal, determines fundamental policies of the education institution, oversees the immediate and long-term plans for the improvement of academic programs, and supervises the overall expansion and development of the educational institution. 4.15. Convention of Leaders – a body composed of representatives of all the organizations in the University, which serves as an advisory body to the Student Council President. 4.16. Discipline Office Management

5

Committee – This is a committee composed of the three Section Heads of the Discipline Office, the Discipline Director, and the Student Council President to review and propose guidelines for the implementation of disciplinary rules and regulations. 4.17. Scholarship and Financial Assistance Committee – a decision policy making body for student scholarships and financial assistance, composed of the VPAR, AVP Academic Service, all college Deans, Student Council Representative, Faculty Representative, Admissions Director and SPS Director 4.18. Canteen Inspection Committee – visits the canteens on campus every term and gathers feedback regarding products and services provided by the canteens based on a certain criteria 4.19. Safety and Security Committee - The committee handles and decides issues concerning the safety and security of the Lasallian Community. 4.20 Bookstore Committee - This committee handles issues, which concerns the bookstore such as pricing, rules and services. 4.20. Enrollment Committee – This committee handles issues, reviews, evaluate and create progressive changes in the university enrollment system. 4.21. Lost and Found Committee – This committee handles rules and policies regarding lost and found items. 4.22. Physical Facilities – This committee handles issue and decides on policies regarding University facilities. 4.23. Management of Information System Committee -- The committee handles and decides on issues concerning information system, accounting, and academic services such as loans, enrollment and other registrar matters. 4.24. Council of deans – it is the highest academic policy and decision-making body of the University, composed of all the Deans, AVP Academics, and Faculty Association President. 4.25 Operations Council - It is the highest policy-making body of the University that decides on administrative policies

6

Chapter II. Admission Subject to No Other Restraint

Chapter II. Admission Subject to No Other Restraint

Number changed

Subject to fair, reasonable and equitable admission requirements, no student shall be denied admission on account of his/her physical handicap, socio-economic status, political or religious beliefs or membership in student organizations nor shall pregnant, married students and reformed drug users be discriminated against.

Section 5. Subject to fair, reasonable and equitable admission requirements, no student shall be denied admission on account of one’s physical or psychological handicap, socio-economic status, sex, gender identity, civil status, race, political or religious beliefs or membership in any lawful organization, pregnancy, past criminal convictions nor shall reformed drug users be discriminated against.

Substantive

A student shall have the right to freely choose his field of study subject to existing academic policy and curricula and to continue his course up to graduation except in cases of academic deficiency or violation of disciplinary regulations which do not infringe upon the exercise of student rights.

Omitted; moved to Chapter III Section 6 and Chapter IV Section 9

Chapter III. Academic Freedom Added Chapter Section 6. Students shall have the

right to freely choose one’s field of study subject to existing academic policy and curricula.

Substantive; Taken from original chapter II 2nd paragraph

Section 7. Students shall have the right to conduct academic inquiry/researches and to freely discuss and publish their findings and recommendations.

Added provision

Section 8. Students shall have the right to express their opinion on any subject of public or general concern which directly or indirectly affects educational system of the students.

Added provision

Chapter VI. Academic Rights Chapter IV. Academic Rights Number changed Section 15. Unpaid Tuition and Fees and Examinations. No student shall be prohibited from taking a periodic or final examination because of unpaid balances of tuition and fees under the established terms prescribed by the University and approved by the appropriate educational agency. Student with delinquent accounts permitted to take an examination shall nevertheless be subject to the right of the University to withhold the release or issuance of such students’ school records or documents or to deny such students from admission for the next trimester or year until prior delinquencies are fully paid.

Section 9. Continuance of Studies. Students shall have the right to continue his/her program up to graduation except in cases of academic deficiency or violation of disciplinary regulations which do not infringe upon the exercise of student rights.

Substantive; Taken and rephrased from original chapter II 2nd paragraph

Section 16. Dropping of Subjects. A student has the right to drop courses as stipulated in Section 8.12 of the

Section 10. Unpaid Tuition Fees and Examination. Students shall not be prohibited from taking any form of

Substantive; Originally taken from chapter VI section 15

7

Student Handbook.

examinations because of unpaid balances of tuition and fees under the established terms prescribed by the University and approved by the appropriate educational agency. Student with delinquent accounts permitted to take an examination shall nevertheless be subject to the right of the University to withhold the release or issuance of such students’ school records or documents or to deny such students from admission for the next trimester or year until prior delinquencies are fully paid.

Section 17. Honors and Privileges. A student who excels academically shall be given recognition through trimestral honors and graduation honors. Student who enters the Dean’s First and Second Honors List are entitled to receive the Jose Rizal Certificate if they consistently stayed there for all three trimesters of the school year. In addition, they are given the privilege of unlimited cuts or absences in their academic subjects. Other special awards may be given to graduating students.

Section 11. Academic Evaluation. Students shall have the right to know how they will be evaluated in the courses they enrolled in at the start of the term.

Number changed

Section 18. Academic Evaluation. Students have the right to know at the start of the trimester how they will be evaluated in the courses they enrolled in.

11.1. Students shall have the right to be provided with a written course syllabus at the beginning of every trimester.

Added provision

Section 19. Class Standing. Students have the right to be informed by their professors of their class standing not later than two weeks following their midterm examinations. They also have the right to see their graded quizzes and other works which will have bearing on their grades before the final examinations.

11.2. Students shall have the right to see their duly corrected examination papers (i.e. answer sheet, questionnaire) and other requirements which will have bearing in their final grades.

Substantive

Section 20. Consultation. Students have the right to be given proper consultation by their professors.

11.3. Students shall have the right to see and be informed of their class standing.

Substantive

Section 21. Computation of Grades. Students have the right to see their duly corrected final examination papers and the computation of their final grades during course card distribution day.

11.4. Students shall have the right to see the computation of their final grades.

Substantive

11.5. Students have the right to be informed beforehand of major requirements (midterm and final exams, long exams, projects, etc.).

Added provision

Section 22. Curriculum. Students shall have the right to give their opinion regarding their curriculum to their respective departments.

Section 12. Curriculum Evaluation. Students shall have the right to evaluate and give their opinion on the quality of their program of study to their respective departments.

Substantive; Taken and rephrased from chapter VI section 22

8

12.1. Students shall have the right to propose the creation and deletion of courses, and to participate in the progressive updating of the curriculum through their official representatives.

Added provision

12.2. Students shall have the right to request and make a written evaluation of the performance of teachers toward the end of the trimester.

Added provision

12.3. Students shall have the right to participate in the evaluation of aspiring faculties.

Substantive; Taken and rephrased from Chapter IV Section 13;

Section 13.Consultation. Students shall have to right to be given proper consultation by their professors.

Number changed

Section 14. Dropping of courses. Students shall have the right to drop courses.

Style; Taken from chapter VI section 16;

Section 15. Honors and Privileges. Students who excel academically shall be given recognition through trimestral honors and graduation honors. Students who enters the Dean’s First and Second Honors List are entitled to receive the Jose Rizal Certificate if they consistently stayed there for all three trimesters of the school year. Other special awards may be given to graduating students.

Style; Taken and rephrased from chapter VI section 17

Section 16. Credit and Grading. Students shall have the right to petition to their instructors for a change of a trimestral grade.

Added provision

Chapter IV. Right to Participate in Policy-making

Chapter V. Right to Participate in Policy-Making

Number changed

Section 10. Right to Representation. The University shall recognize the right of students to be represented, through the Student Council, in all policy-making bodies handling issues that affect them. Examples are the ff.:

Section 17. The University Committees/Councils are the avenue for progressive changes in the University policies. In order to ensure balance views from its sectors, the University shall recognize the right of students to be represented, through their Student Council, in all policy-making bodies. The Student Council shall have the right to participate, send student representatives and to be recognized as co–equal and co–determinant members, whose rights shall not limited to voting power, dialogues and discussions.

Substantive

Section 18. The Student Council shall appoint the representatives that shall possess the voting power in these committees:

- Bookstore Committee - Canteen Inspection Committee - College Councils - Enrollment Committee - Graduation Committee - Honors and Awards Committee

Section 18.1. Bookstore Committee. Number changed; Retained;

9

- Lost and Found Committee - Mission Statement Executive Committee - Multi-Sectoral Committee on Budget - Physical Facilities Committee - President’s Council of Representatives - Security Committee - Student Personnel Services Council - Student Publications Committee - Student Financial Assistance Committee - Trisectoral Council - University Library Council - Management Information Systems Section 11. On the Matter of School Fees. In justifying any tuition and/or other school fee increases before the Multi-Sectoral Committee on Budget (MSCB), the school concerned shall be required to present the President’s annual report as well as other audited financial statements of the university for the past school year immediately preceding the proposal for such increase. The SC shall be furnished with a copy of De La Salle University’s audited financial statements as soon as they are prepared and verified. Refusal of the school administration to show its audited financial documents and records for inspection by the student representative in the MSCB deliberations shall mean an automatic denial of its proposal for increase.

Section 18.2. Canteen Inspection Committee.

Number changed; Retained;

Section 12. Board of Trustees. The Student Council, in behalf of the students, can meet with the Chairperson of the Board of Trustees every trimester to discuss pertinent university issues. In addition, the Student Council shall have access to the minutes of the meetings of the Board of Trustees.

Section 18.3. College Council. Number changed; Substantive;

Section 13. Hiring of Incoming Faculty Members. Students, through their professional organizations of the Student Council, shall have the right to coordinate with their respective departments for purposes of participating in the screening of incoming teachers/professors.

Section 18.4. Disciplinary Board. Number changed; Substantive;

Section 18.5. Discipline Office Management Committee

Number changed; Substantive;

Section 18.6. Enrollment Committee. Number changed; Retained; Section 18.7. Honors, Awards and

Graduation Committee. Number changed; Retained;

Section 18.8. Lost and Found Committee.

Number changed; Retained;

10

Section 18.9. Management of Information System Committee.

Number changed; Retained;

Section 18.10. Mission Statement Executive Committee.

Number changed; Retained;

Section 18.11. Multi-Sectoral Committee on Budget.

Number changed; Retained;

Section 18.12. Physical Facilities Committee.

Number changed; Retained;

Section 18.13. President’s Council of Representatives.

Number changed; Retained;

Section 18.14. Safety and Security Committee.

Number changed; Retained;

Section 18.15. Student Handbook Revision Committee.

Number changed; Retained;

Section 18.16. Student Personnel Services Council.

Number changed; Retained;

Section 18.17. Student Publications Committee.

Number changed; Retained;

Section 18.18. Scholarship and Financial Assistance Committee.

Number changed; Retained;

Section 18.19. Trisectoral Council. Number changed; Retained; Section 18.20. University Library

Council. Number changed; Retained;

Section 18.21. Other college-wide and university-wide committees involved in making policies which affect students.

Added provision

Section 19. Board of Trustees. The Student Council President or student representative shall reserve the right to be present in the board of trustees meeting as an observer and participate in the discussion.

Number changed; taken from chapter IV section 12

Chapter VII. Right to Affordable Education

Chapter VI. Right to Justifiable Education

Number changed; Style

Section 23. Scholarships. Deserving students have the right to avail scholarship offered by the University through the Scholarship Financial Assistance Office (SFA).

Section 20. School Fees. Tuition fee increase for the following school year will only take effect if and only if it has been deliberated in the Multi-Sectoral Committee on Tuition Fee Increase with the full participation of all sectors of the University and with equitable representation.

Added provision

Section 24. Refund. Students have the right to a refund, according to the memorandum of the Department of Education, Culture and Sports. When a student registers in the University, it is understood that he/she is enrolling for the entire trimester. A students who transfers or otherwise withdraws in writing within two weeks after the beginning of classes and who has already paid the pertinent tuition and other school fees in full for any length longer than one month may be charged ten percent (10%) of the total amount due for the term if he/she withdraws during the first week of classes, or twenty percent (20%) if within the second week of classes,

Section 21. Scholarships. Students shall have the right to avail of scholarship or loaning assistance offered by the University through the Scholarship and Financial Assistance Office (SFA).

Substantive; taken and rephrased from chapter VII section 23

11

regardless of whether or not he/she actually attended classes. The student may be charged all the fees in full if he/she withdraws anytime after the second week of classes. Section 22. Refund. Students have

the right to a refund, according to the memorandum of the Department of Education, Culture and Sports. When a student registers in the University, it is understood that he/she is enrolling for the entire trimester. A students who transfers or otherwise withdraws in writing within two weeks after the beginning of classes and who has already paid the pertinent tuition and other school fees in full for any length longer than one month may be charged ten percent (10%) of the total amount due for the term if he/she withdraws during the first week of classes, or twenty percent (20%) if within the second week of classes, regardless of whether or not he/she actually attended classes. The student may be charged all the fees in full if he/she withdraws anytime after the second week of classes.

Retained

Section 23. Miscellaneous Fees. Students shall have the right against excessive charging of miscellaneous fees in the use or in availing the University’s facilities and services.

Substantive; taken and rephrased from chapter III section 7 last paragraph

Section 24. Adequate and Safe School Facilities. Students shall have the right to adequate, safe and clean academic facilities such as classrooms, library, research, laboratory and information technology equipment; sports and fitness, recreation and other basic facilities.

Substantive; taken from chapter X section 32

CHAPTER IX. Right to Due Process In Disciplinary Proceedings

Chapter VII. Right to Due Process in Disciplinary Proceedings

Number changed; Style

Section 28. Right to Due Process. a. A student subject to disciplinary proceedings shall have the right to defend himself/herself, to be heard, and to present evidence on his/her behalf before the Student Disciplinary Board. In addition, there shall be a Special Counsel who must be a member of the Integrated Bar and who is appointed by the President from the University constituency.

Section 25. Students shall have the right to be presumed innocent until proven otherwise.

Substantive;

b. The blacklisting, expulsion, suspension, of any other disciplinary sanction that may be taken against a student shall no be valid unless the following rights have been observed and accorded the student:

Section 26. Students subject to any proceedings shall have the right to defend himself/herself and present evidence on his/her behalf.

Substantive;

12

(1) The right to be informed in writing of the nature and cause of the accusation against him/her;

Section 27. Students shall have the right be defended by a counsel of his/her choice. (The counsel may be but not limited to faculty member, a counselor, or a fellow student) Adequate time should be given for the preparation of the defense;

Substantive;

(2) The right to confront witnesses against him/her and to full access to the evidence in the case;

Substantive;

(3) The right to defend himself/herself and to be defended by a counsel of his/her choice with adequate time being given him/her for the preparation of his/her defense;

Section 28. Students shall shave the right to be informed in writing of the nature and cause of the accusation against him/her.

Substantive;

(4) The right to a hearing before the Student Disciplinary Board;

Section 29. Students shall have the right to confront witnesses against him/her and to full access to the evidence in the case.

Substantive;

(5) The right against self-incrimination; and

Substantive;

(6) The right to appeal adverse decisions of the Student Disciplinary Board to the Vice President for Academics of the University and ultimately to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

Section 30. Students shall have the right to have their parents or guardians witness the disciplinary proceedings;

Substantive;

c. The decision in any disciplinary proceeding must be rendered on basis of relevant and substantial evidence presented at the hearing or at least contained in the record and disclosed to the student affected. The deciding body must act on its own independent consideration of the facts of the case. The body shall, in all controversial questions, render a decision in such a manner that the issues involved, and the reasons for such a decision, are made clear to the student.

Section 31. Students shall have the right against self-incrimination;

Substantive;

d. The gravity of disciplinary sanctions must be proportionate to the seriousness of the violation committed.

Section 32. Students shall have the right to a hearing before the Student Disciplinary Board.

Substantive;

Section 29. Right Against Unreasonable Searches and Seizures. Every student shall not be subject to any form of unreasonable search or seizure. Except for the following instances, no search or seizure of a student shall be deemed valid:

Section 33. The right to appeal decisions within the University and ultimately to the Commission on Higher Education.

Substantive;

- Searches made at the point of ingress and egress by authorized personnel of the school;

Section 34. Right Against Unreasonable Searches and Seizures. Every student shall not be subject to any form of unreasonable search or seizure. Except for the following instances, no search or seizure of a student shall be deemed valid:

Number changed;

- Searches and seizures of illegal articles;

Section 34.1. Searches made at the point of ingress and egress by

Number changed;

13

authorized personnel of the school; - Searches and seizures of illegal articles that are discovered inadvertently by duly authorized personnel;

Section 34.2 Searches and seizures of illegal articles, as well as instances where thee is imminent threat to the general public.

Number changed;

- Searches made when the student is about to commit, is committing, or has just committed a crime or a serious infraction of the school’s rules and regulation; and

Section 34.3. Illegal articles that are discovered inadvertently by duly authorized personnel;

Substantive

- Searches made with a valid search warrant.

Section 34.4. Searches and seizures made when the student is committing, or has just committed a crime or a serious infraction of the school’s rules and regulation; and

Minority report omitted

Articles seized in violation of the above rights shall not be used as evidence against the student in any disciplinary action that may be brought against him/her.

Section 34.5. Articles seized in violation of the above rights shall not be used as evidence against the student in any disciplinary action that may be brought against him/her.

Number changed;

Section 35. The decision in any disciplinary proceeding must be rendered on the basis of relevant and substantial evidence presented at the hearing or at least contained in the record and disclosed to the student affected. The deciding body must act on its own independent consideration of the facts of the case. The body shall, in all controversial questions, render a decision in such a manner that the issues involved, and the reasons for such a decision, are made clear to the student.

The gravity of disciplinary sanctions must be proportionate to the seriousness of the violation committed.

Number changed; Substantive

Chapter V. Right to Freedom of Expression and Opinion

Chapter VIII. RIGHT TO DIGNITY, OPINION, INDIVIDUALISM, PEACE AND FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION

Number changed; rephrased

Section 14. The students have the right:

Section 36. Students shall have the right to free and responsible expression of opinions and suggestions.

Substantive;

Section 37. Students shall have the right to file a grievance against any member of the University.

Added provision

a. to free responsible expression;

Section 38. Students shall have the right to be treated as an individual person, free from any kind of discrimination against gender, seniority, religion, race, nationality, financial and social status or any form of discriminatory harassments.

Added provision

14

b. to state their concerns on matter related to the quality of their education;

Section 39. Students shall have the right to dress according to their individual tastes.

Substantive; taken and rephrased from chapter V section 14.c

c. to dress according to their individual tastes, but within the context of the University’s dress code, and to air their opinions regarding the dress code, through the Student Council, to the Student Handbook Revisions Committee for review and possible revision;

Section 40. Students shall have the right to legitimate discussions inside and outside the classroom and to express dissent or advocate alternative views and opinions without being penalized.

Added provision

d. to file a grievance against any member of the academic community following the guidelines stipulated in the Student Handbook;

Section 41. Student shall be free from censorship in the publication and dissemination of their view as long as these are not represented as the views of the school.

Added provision

e. to free press, according to Republic Act 7079.

Section 42. Students shall be free to assemble, demonstrate, to protest, to communicate and to petition the government and school authorities for the redress of their grievances.

Added provision

Section 43. Students shall have the right to move freely, avoid violence, force, threats and abuse and to go against actions motivated by prejudice.

Added provision

Section 44. Student Publications shall be guided by the RA 7079 Campus Journalism Act for its formation, operations and rights.

Substantive; taken and rephrased from chapter V section 14.d

Section 45. Student Publications shall have the right to express responsibly their views and opinions without fear of persecution from authorities, and without threat of being in any way penalized or punished by authorities.

Added provision

Section 46. Student Publications shall have the right against imposition of news blackouts by the University.

Added provision

Chapter VIII. Right to Information Chapter IX. Right to Information Number changed Section 25. Fees and Payment. Tuition, special fees, and deadlines for payments of such must be posted on the administrative bulletin boards prior to and during the enrollment period.

Section 47. Students shall have the right to access all official public information on matters directly affecting their individual and/or collective welfare.

Added provision

Section 26. Approval and Accumulated Absences. Students have the right to information regarding the approval and/or accumulated absences. A student who has acquired the number of absences that may render him/her ineligible for a passing grade shall be informed by the instructor through the administrative bulletin boards.

Section 48. Students shall have the right to access his/her own school records, the confidentiality of which the school shall maintain. He/she shall have the right to be issued official certificates, diplomas, and transcript of records, grades, transfer credentials, and other similar documents upon student’s request.

Added provision

Section 27. Final Examinations. At the beginning of the course, students have the right to be informed of their instructors’ policies for final examinations and the criteria for exemptions. Students have the right to

Section 49. Students shall have the right to be provided clear guidelines of any additional fees that the University will implement.

Added provision

15

be informed of the final examination schedules two weeks before the start of the examinations through the administrative bulletin boards. Section 50. Tuition, special fees, and

deadlines for payments of such must be posted on the administrative bulletin boards prior to and during enrollment period. (shall we include the description or implementing guidelines)

Substantive; taken from chapter VIII section 25

Chapter III. Right to Organize Chapter X. Right to Organize Number changed; Section 5. Right to Organization. Unity and collective effort being fundamental to the realization of common goals and the promotion and protection of common interests, the University recognizes the right of student to organize among themselves. The right of students to form, assist, or join any campus organization, alliance, or federation for their physical, intellectual, moral, cultural, civic, spiritual, and/or political interest, as long as these are not contrary to the University’s mission, shall not be abridged.

Section 51. The University shall ensure the democratic and autonomous existence of the Student Council. The Council is the supreme, highest and sole representative of the students. The Council shall have its own set of officers, which the mandate is given by the students through the annual general elections. The Student Council shall have the right to determine its policies and programs on student activities subject to its duly ratified constitution and policies.

Substantive; rationale added

Section 6. Student Council. The University shall ensure the democratic and autonomous existence of the Student Council. This Council shall have its own set of officers chosen by the students during annual general elections. The Student Council shall have the right to determine its policies and programs on student activities subject to its duly ratified constitution and policies.

Section 52. Student organizations shall not be subject to rules and regulations that unduly hamper their activities and are prejudicial to their objectives and interests, provided that such objectives are aligned with the University’s mission.

Added provision

16

Section 7. Accreditation of and Granting of Privileges to Student Organizations. No unreasonable requirements shall be imposed on student organizations seeking recognition. Any group of fifteen (15) students may apply for accreditation of their organization beginning the second trimester. The following documents are required: - Formal letter of applications; - Constitution and bylaws; -List of Interim Board of Officers with their names, respective positions, majors, year levels, addresses and telephone numbers, birthdates, and specimen signatures; - List of at least fifteen (15) founding members with names, year levels, majors, and signatures (inclusive of officers); - Proposed activities for the year; and - Name of faculty adviser.

A duplicate of these documents must be submitted to the Council of Student Organizations.

The Student Council and the Office of Student Activities shall take charge of the accreditation of student organizations.

Excessive charges for the use of school facilities shall be prohibited. Whenever possible, the University Administration shall allow student organizations to use these facilities free of charge.

Section 53. Students shall have the right to form, join or participate in organizations and societies recognized by the school to foster their intellectual, cultural, spiritual and physical growth and development, or to form, establish, join and maintain organizations and societies for purposes not contrary to law.

Substantive; taken from chapter III section 5; whole section 7 is omitted

Section 8. Formation of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC). The Commission on Elections shall conduct and oversee the election of officers of the Student Council. The College Assembly Presidents will have the responsibility to appoint COMELEC Commissioners from their respective colleges for the approval of the Legislative Assembly. The COMELEC shall be under the Student Council, which shall provide the COMELEC sufficient funds to ensure the success of its goals and objectives. Once constituted, the COMELEC shall ensure the conduct of

Section 54. Student organizations shall develop in line with the Lasallian Mission Statement and enhance democratic processes on campus. Membership and active participation in student organizations, alliances, and federations which promote and protect student rights and welfare and/or contribute to national development shall be guaranteed by the Student Council and the school authorities.

Omitted;

17

clean, honest and peaceful elections. Section 9. Prohibition Against the Use of Force on Members by Student Organizations. Every campus organization is hereby prohibited from using any form of physical force, violence, threat or intimidation in the recruitment, initiation or retention of members and in the conduct of its activities. Violators of this rule shall be subject to the ACT REGULATING HAZING, AND OTHER FORMS OF INITIATION RITES IN FRATERNITIES, SORORITIES, AND OTHER ORGANIZATIONS AND PROVIDING PENALTIES HEREFORE by the Senate House of Representatives in Congress (Anti-Hazing Law).

Section 55. Prohibition Against the Use of Force on Members by Student Organizations. Every campus organization is hereby prohibited from using any form of physical force, violence, threat or intimidation in some humiliating situations such as forcing him to do menial, silly, foolish and similar tasks or activities or otherwise subjecting him to psychological suffering in the recruitment, initiation or retention of members and in the conduct of its activities. Violators of this rule shall be subject to the act regulating hazing, and other forms of initiation rites in fraternities, sororities, and other organizations and providing penalties herefore by the Senate House of Representatives in Congress (Anti-Hazing Law).

Chapter XI. Right to Religious Freedom

Substantive; new article

All students in the University are entitled to all the rights and freedoms set forth in the law of the land. All students have inherent equal and inalienable rights regardless of race, color, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status. The University, therefore, shall respect the religious freedom of its non-Catholic students.

Added provision

Section 56. No University policy shall be passed abridging the religious freedom of its students and prohibiting the manifestation of other religions and the practice thereof in the University. All religious groups in the University shall have the right to be accredited and to be recognized without any unreasonable requirements which includes the legitimate right to use the facilities of the University whenever possible.

Added provision

Section 57. The University Administration shall encourage scholarly discussions of religion and other related subject thereto in the academe. The University Administration together with the Student Council shall encourage different sectors in the University to promote religious freedom and the religious welfare of its non–catholic students.

Added provision

Chapter XII. Right to Security Substantive; new article Section 58. Prohibition against

Involuntary Contribution. Except Number changed

18

those approved by their own student organizations, all involuntary contributions shall be prohibited.

Section 59. Prohibition against Miniaturization of the School Campus. No military detachments shall be installed in the school campus. Military elements and/or policemen in uniform or in plain clothes and school security forces shall not interfere with the student activities, particularly peaceful mass actions inside the school campus. School officials may, however, request their presence in cases where there is disruption of normal school operations.

Number changed

Chapter X. Other Rights Omitted; Section 30. Access to School Records and Issuance of Official Certificates. Every student shall have access to his/her own school records, the confidentiality of which the school shall maintain. He/she shall have the right to be issued official certificates, diplomas, transcript of records, grades, transfer credentials, and other similar documents upon the student’s request.

TRANSFERRED

Section 31. Prohibition against Involuntary Contribution. Except those approved by their own student organizations, all involuntary contributions shall be prohibited.

TRANSFERRED

Section 32. Right to Adequate And Safe School Facilities. The students shall have the right to be provided adequate, safe, and clean facilities by the University.

TRANSFERRED

Section 33. Prohibition against Miniaturization of the School Campus. The pursuit of academic excellence and exercise of academic freedom can be attained only in an atmosphere free from fear and unreasonable restraint. Pursuant thereto, no military detachments shall be installed in the school campus. Military elements and/or policemen in uniform or in plain clothes and school security forces shall not interfere with the student activities, particularly peaceful mass actions inside the school campus. School officials may, however, request their presence in cases where there is disruption of normal school operations.

TRANSFERRED

Section 34. Attendance. All students are expected to attend class promptly and regularly. A student can incur absences, provided that he/she does not exceed the number of allowable absences. A student shall not be

Omitted;

19

considered absent in class when the teacher arrives after one-third of the class time. Section 35. Credit and Grading. Students who wish to petition for a change of a trimestral grade shall have the right to ask their instructors concerned to fill out the necessary forms and to comply with the procedures for the change of grade.

TRANSFERRED

Chapter XI. Responsibilities of the Students

Chapter XII. Student’s Responsibilities

Number changed; Style

Students shall have the following responsibilities:

Style

Section 36. Student Responsibilities. Students shall have the following responsibilities:

Section 60. To develop their potentials to the utmost in order that they may be used of service to their families and society;

Number changed;

1. To develop their potentials to the utmost in order that they may be of service to their families and society;

Section 61. To strive for academic excellence and to abide by school rules and regulations pertaining to their academic responsibilities;

Number changed;

2. To strive for academic excellence and to abide by school rules and regulations pertaining to their academic responsibilities;

Section 62. To exert utmost efforts towards the realization of harmonious relationships with the rest of the academic community;

Number changed;

3. To exert utmost efforts towards the realization of harmonious relationships with the rest of the academic community;

Section 63. To participate actively in school activities including athletics and civic affairs for the development of the community and the nation;

Number changed;

4. To participate actively in school activities including athletics and civic affairs for the development of the community and the nation;

Section 64. To uphold, preserve and maintain the good name of their Alma Mater;

Number changed;

5. To uphold, preserve, and maintain the good name of their alma matter; and

Section 65. To respect the rights of others, which includes the obligation to refrain from conduct that violates or adversely affects the rights of other members of the academic community;

Added provision

6. To exercise their rights responsibly. Section 66. And to exercise the rights responsibly.

Number changed;

Chapter XII. Final Provisions Chapter XIV. Final Provisions Number changed; Section 37. Administration and Enforcement. Within ninety (90) days after the approval of this Charter, all sectors of the University, namely the Administration, the faculty, the non-teaching Staff, and the students shall promulgate the necessary rules and regulations to implement the provisions of this document.

Section 67. Administration and Enforcement. Within ninety (90) days after the approval of this Charter, all sectors of the University, namely the Administration, the faculty, the non-teaching Staff, and the students, shall promulgate the necessary rules and regulations to implement the provisions of this document.

Number changed;

Section 38. Separability Clause. If any provision of this charter is declared invalid, the remainder thereof not affected thereby shall continue to be in force.

Section 68. Separability Clause. If any provision of this charter is declared invalid, the remainder thereof not affected thereby shall continue to be in force.

Number changed;

Section 39. Effectivity. This charter shall take effect the school year after its approval.

Section 69. Effectivity. This charter shall take effect the school year after its approval.

Number changed;

Annex Annex Added provision

20

Future changes in University policies, as will be reflected in the De La Salle University Student Handbook, which will affect student rights and welfare shall take precedence over the corresponding provisions in the Students’ Charter. These changes shall be effectuated only upon full participation of the Student Council in behalf of the students in the decision making process.

Future changes in University policies, as will be reflected in the De La Salle University Student Handbook, which will affect student rights and welfare shall take precedence over the corresponding provisions in the Students’ Charter. These changes shall be effectuated only upon full participation of the Student Council in behalf of the students in the decision making process.

Added provision

Authored by: Karlo Dumaup Feona Hebrio Mark Nanquil Oliver Toh

MJ Yap Reviewed and edited by the STRAW Committee, SY 2005-2006