TO UNDERSTAND the tangible benefits of campus elections, an online survey was recently conducted at Lahug National High School (LNHS) (Night). The survey aimed to identify how these elections empower students and contribute to the school community.
The Philippines legally supports student council elections through various laws and guidelines, including Republic Act 9500, the University of the Philippines (UP) Charter and the Revised Standard Constitution and By-Laws of the Supreme Student Government in Secondary Schools.
These laws and guidelines outline the composition, election processes, qualifications of candidates and the rights and responsibilities of student bodies.
The survey results from LNHS (Night) highlight the significant impact of campus elections on the school environment. The results showed that through these elections, students gain a clear understanding of real-world democracy within LNHS (Night). Moreover, the elections are crucial in developing students’ decision-making, social and leadership skills.
Denise Meriel Sollano, SSLG adviser of LNHS (Night), emphasized that campus elections grant students the fundamental right to choose their leaders. “The election process gives voice to the masses thereby giving them the opportunity to elect leaders who they think will represent themselves in the governing body,” she said.
Ludwig Nuñeza, a current member of the LNHS (Night) student council, added, “Election process shows students how voting works in real life. They learn that everyone gets a chance to vote and leaders are chosen fairly.”
Campus elections are mandated annually, contributing to student governance. Every student has the opportunity to cast their vote and even run as a candidate. Students are encouraged to elect candidates who offer a clear vision for improving the school. This process opens students’ minds to the practical application of democracy within their school.
Nicole Odon, SSLG president of LNHS (Night), shared her perspective on what constitutes a good candidate. “I think students just like me are looking for a student leader who has the essence of passion of serving people and to have a strong moral and integrity.”
Britney Baritugo, a Grade 10 student at LNHS (Night), believes a strong candidate can genuinely improve the school. “Having the passion of leading and guiding is the thing a candidate must have, if they lead for good the school will change for good.” Fiona Baritugo / Lahug National High School