08/08/2026
As a university that prides itself on instructing students to think critically, to understand and shape society, and to be competent, committed, and compassionate, what place does the display of weapons and agents of destruction have?
Throughout history, we have observed how the Armed Forces of the Philippines and its many branches act as the arms of the fascist state and the reactionary ruling class–displacing and terrorizing the masses that it claims to protect. It is not uncommon to hear about state forces being used to harass progressive actors or acting as goons of local landlords and dynastic politicians. Only last month have we heard of the excessive use of force and undue arrest of the youth and other progressive forces, calling for social justice during Marcos Jr.’s SONA. As recent as last April, reports of bombings and massacres in rural Negros filled our timelines, leading to the death of innocent peasants and community organizers.
During the same month, Thomasian student activists protested against the “educational display” conducted by the Philippine Air Force, in collaboration with UST, which was celebrating its anniversary. Students were exposed to the very same weapons used to terrorize the countryside. Despite the event’s invitation to ask questions, the students’ critical inquiry was met with red-tagging, dismissal and personal attacks. Eventually, even comments and false claims from Defense Secretary Gibo Teodoro incited harassment and threats online. Within the University, the students were met with administrative complaints filed by the Air Force and processed by the University.
We call on UST to TAKE A STAND.
To take a neutral stance in the face of blatant repression is not impartiality, but an ex*****on of the will of the fascist state. To let the PAF enter the gates of the campus is to provide them with malleable permission to harm the welfare of the students. To let any fascist institution inside the campus is to endorse its long history and culture of impunity and violence among the Thomasians. Veritas in Caritate cannot be observed in allowing the corrupt state’s powerful arms to intimidate and suppress the people it is supposed to serve. Veritas in Caritate in action is when the people, even the youth and students, unite to confront the state’s inhumane attacks. When students were being targeted by harassment and red-tagging from students and professors, the university did nothing. Yet, in defense of the PAF, UST was quick to act. Nasaan ang commitment, competence, at compassion? Nasa pasistang estado ba, USTe?
History has taught us that repression breeds resistance. Artlets, assert your rights. This is an attack against all of us.
UST TAKE A STAND
JUNK PAF COMPLAINTS AGAINST THOMASIAN STUDENT LEADERS
CUT ALL TIES WITH STATE FORCES
MILITAR SA PAMANTASAN PALAYASIN
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