We, the undersigned, call on the UP Administration to address the following concerns regarding the university's tuition policy: 1. That the new bracketing system seems to be inconsistent with its supposed aim to adjust the tuition rates due to inflation. Under the old STFAP bracketing system, those with an annual family income range from PhP 0-PhP 130,000 (Brackets 1-5) were given full subsidy that included free tuition and a variable stipend of up to PhP 5,000. The new scheme being implemented only provides the same benefits to those with an annual family income that is less than PhP 80,000 (Bracket E). The UP Administration seems to imply that those who cannot afford the tuition way back in 1989 can now do so at present despite the inflation. 2. That the office tasked with the information dissemination on this perceived development is not properly and sufficiently equipped with the necessary resources to do such. During the onset of the implementation of the new STFAP, many families whose children were qualified for enrollment in UP were mostly unaware of the process of applying for socialized education, much more its existence. 3. That the University, through its Office of Scholarships and Student Services (OSSS), is not fully capable of the actual implementation of the STFAP. The University cannot efficiently address bracketing appeals, leaving some students without their proper bracket assignments even if the semester draws to a close. 4. That delayed paying schemes must be made available to students. Some students may not have the capacity to pay tuition in full during the prescribed period. The UP Administration must not neglect this fact and instead, aim to genuinely explore the option of monthly or quarterly payment installments for the sake of deserving students. 5. That the STFAP bracketing system, albeit a product of years of study, must be reexamined in light of cases of students opting not to enroll in UP. These should not be treated as just mere isolated cases. The UP Administration must open its eyes to the reality that there are UP students who are indeed prejudiced by this current system. We call on the administration to not stand by idly as another year, our centennial year, goes by when more and more deserving students are deprived of access to UP education. WE DEMAND A JUST, PROGRESSIVE, AND SOCIALIZED TUITION POLICY! Sincerely, The Undersigned

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