For a better University

DLSU has many ambitious projects revealed to the public. The public awaits word on the integration of the DLSU main campus and the Science and Technology Complex in Canlubang, The public wants to be kept updated on the developments and details regarding the Centennial Hall. The public wishes to know about the full extent of the Campus Renewal Plan, of which the Centennial Hall is part.

These projects are concerns for the community, the University’s stakeholders, and like in any smooth-functioning corporation, they deserve frequent reports and updates.

Student publications aim to keep the University informed about these things. We gather our information from the administration, the faculty, and the staff, who are our partners in informing the students and the other stakeholders of the University.

This July, our writers painstakingly prepared at least 50 letters, which had been edited and officially signed by our director. These letters were addressed to numerous administrators and faculty whom we sought for comment on the community concerns mentioned above.

These letters are part of an official protocol that the Student Media Office follows, and they are given as a sincere courtesy for the benefit of the said administrators and faculty.

We understand that several of these projects are undergoing revisions in the planning, or have not yet been fully agreed upon by certain sectors, and hence may not merit public disclosure from a publication like ours.

But it is unacceptable that many did not respond to the letters that were especially prepared for them, and that if they did reply, most redirected the writer to another office, which would claim to know nothing.

To be fair, we have had our share of errors and miscommunication, especially with interview schedules, which we have addressed and acknowledged. Moreover, some of the interviewees have been truly busy and could not accommodate our requests.

Does this justify the fact that some claim to be clueless when others would point them as the only person to ask?

Where is the accountability?

For us, journalism has always been about the subject; it has always been about getting the insights and knowledge of these select, accountable people and to deliver issues that are important to the public. Hence, there can be no news, no information, no report if the subject does not speak.

Admittedly, we bring issues. These are issues that the University may not see, or concerns from the students or faculty that do not reach the right people, because our publication serves what we think is in the best interest of Lasallians—critical thinking.

PAASCU accreditors read the newspaper to be informed about issues that are not disclosed to them when they visit. These issues actually contribute to the great pruning and improvement of the University we all love and fight for.

This is no perfect University, but then it might be better if we help each other out.