Union of Progressive Students

The Union of Progressive Students (UPS) is a socio-political organization based in the University of the Philippines in the Visayas Cebu College (U.P. Cebu).

Characterized by its blue and white banners, the organization served as a venue for students to express their activism in mean aside from mass mobilizations. It participates in political activities ranging from rallies to foras and debates, as well as soci-civic activities like outreaches and environmental campaigns.

During the college wide elections, it transforms into a political party that fields competent and capable candiates to the U.P. Cebu Student Council. Starting in 1992 as a small group of concerned students, it has grown into a key player in U.P. Cebu politics and with active membership from the students and the alumni.

History
Beginnings
The UPS was founded in June 1992. It was originally called the Coalition of Progressive Students (CPS) but was changed to its current name after a few weeks. The founding members were primarily composed of members of Partido and Masang UPianon (PMU) and the Concerned Students Coalition (CSC) -- both defunct student political parties.

It was initially just a socio-political organization tackling UP-wide issues and national concenrs. However, it evolved into a political party that fielded candidates to the U.P. Cebu Student Council. It was then an alternative party for those who were tired of the dominance of the Nagkahiusang Kusug sa Estudyante (NKE) in the college politics for the past 5 years.

UPS broadened the the definition of activism from just mass mobilzations into cultural, religious and socio-cvic activities, prioritizing its focus on the local college issues. It argued that there is no bounderies in the expression of activism, responding to the calls of NKE for more mass mobilizations to enact change. Yet despite its presence for more than a decade, it is still seen as the underdog in the political arena compared to it rival since it has no tactical alliances with socio-politcal and leftist organizations.

However the respect for the organization's capablity has been growing, as it has been winning more seats in the council and at some years being the majority though not necessarily having the chairpersonship. In 2007, UPS has 8 of the 14 seats garning the top positions of vice-chairman, and UPV-USC representatives.

The Emergence of Lihok
The college elections held last February 2003, saw the emergence of the "third politcal party." Calling themselves "Lihok," they claimed to be the voice of the silent majority who saw no choice other than what is presented by NKE and UPS.

It was a big blow to both parties as members of the UPS and NKE core group were part in the establishment of the new party. However, despite the semingly organational instability brought about by the third party, UPS was able to establish power contenders to the student council, namely outgoing vice-chairperson Jimvic Dy and former year-level representatives Geraldine Reyes and Brian Magalong who vied for chairperson, vice-chariperson and UPV-USC respectively.

The turnout became a fight between UPS and Lihok. UPS got the majority with seven seats, Lihok five and NKE two. Under the administration of the Jimvic Dy, the council was able to break the lossing streak of the annual Cookout with a gross profit of P25,000.

Principles
Enlightened Student Activism
All sides seen, all sides heard. Student first before being an activist.

Authentic Humanism
Rousseau said that man is by nature good.

Pragmatism
n ordinary usage, pragmatism refers to behavior which temporarily sets aside one ideal to pursue a lesser, more achievable ideal.

Dynamism
Change is envitable, thus adaptability and flexibity is a must.

Active Non-Violence
Violence only breeds violence. Though peaceful mean, we can enact lasting change.

The Hand Principles

The Hand Principle has been the symbol of UPS throughout the years. The presence of the blue hand in various posters and statements automatically associates the material to the organization.

Strength
THUMB

Direction
POINTING FINGER

Respect
MIDDLE FINGER

Commitment
RING FINGER

Contribution
PINKY

Main Menu

See Also

Main Menu