Random Thoughts 3

1. Yesterday was the 54th birth anniversary of Leandro Alejandro, student leader and activist who was killed in an ambush in 1987. Lean was UP Student Council chairman in 1983-84. I was among his councilors. In my mind, two historical events stand out: the Ninoy Aquino assasination in aug 1983 and the first Lakbayan in Feb 1984. These two events kept us busy and visible on and off campus duing our term in office. My stint with Lean and the USC remains one of the most influential period in my youth.

2. I owe my being opinionated not only to UP but to my father who discussed social and political issues with us during the martial law years. I carry that interest in our country's plight and experiences to this day. I say my mind not just in writing but also in the classroom when I teach. My socio-political beliefs are obvious on the first day of classes. I joke about politicians and events hoping that my students will be curious enough to dig up the background on them or at the least read up in between doing their status updates or playing games. I take extra care in influencing young minds. I tell them that they need not believe or follow everything that I stand for. They are old enough to form their own opinions. Bottomline is they SHOULD have opinions.

3. I teach English because I was told I could teach it given my good enough proficiency in the language. The first subjects I handled were actually Filipino and Araling Panlipunan. English to me is just a language that allows us opportunities . It is prestigious due to our continuing colonial mindset but I tell my students they should also try learning other foreign languages.

4. The headlines and the personalities that make the headlines nowadays are very familiar names and faces. Many of them also came from the State University. Juan Ponce-Enrile. Gigi Reyes. The UP really produces all sorts of graduates. From the extreme right to the extreme left. It also produces the most caring of citizens as well as the most detached; the most generous to Motherland as well as the most abusive of her.

5. Proud to be from this University. The freedom of mind and attitude within its perimeter allows its wards to achieve growth in whatever quality and quantity they choose. Really up to the graduate if conscience stays or is totally given up. I am glad I have a son who is also a graduate of UP. I consider it one great achievement as a parent.