UP SAMASA Alumni Association: A Brief History and Beyond
The University of the Philippines
(UP) SAMASA (Sandigan para sa Mag-aaral at Sambayanan) is one of the most
prominent student political parties and activist groups in the history of UP
Diliman as well the country’s student movement. It has played a significant
role in shaping student politics, activism, and broader social movements in the
Philippines. SAMASA was particularly influential during the turbulent years of
the 1980s and continues to have an impact today through its alumni, who have
gone on to serve in various capacities in government, civil society, and other
sectors.
Origins and Founding
UP SAMASA was established in the
early 1980s, a time when the Philippines was under the dictatorship of
Ferdinand Marcos. The political climate on campuses across the country,
including UP Diliman, was charged with dissent and resistance against the
oppressive regime. It was within this context that SAMASA emerged as a unified
front of various student organizations, individuals, and activists committed to
fighting for students' rights and broader social issues, including human
rights, democracy, and national sovereignty.
SAMASA quickly became known for
its progressive and militant stance, advocating for the restoration of
democratic institutions and the end of the Marcos dictatorship. The
organization was instrumental in organizing protests, rallies, and other forms
of activism within and outside the university.
Role During the Marcos
Dictatorship and People Power Revolution
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One of the most significant
periods in SAMASA's history was its active involvement in the anti-dictatorship
struggle during the final years of the Marcos regime. SAMASA members were at
the forefront of student protests, joining forces with other sectors of
society, including workers, peasants, and religious groups, in the campaign to
oust Marcos.
SAMASA's role in mobilizing the
student population was critical in the events leading up to the People Power
Revolution of 1986, which ultimately led to the ousting of Ferdinand Marcos and
the restoration of democracy in the Philippines. Many SAMASA members
participated in the mass actions that culminated in the historic four-day
peaceful uprising, historically known as the ‘EDSA People Power Revolution’
that brought millions of Filipinos to Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA).
Post-EDSA Era and Continuing
Advocacy
After the People Power
Revolution, SAMASA continued to be an influential force in UP and beyond. The
organization focused on various issues such as education reform, social
justice, and good governance. SAMASA also became a training ground for young
leaders, conducting leadership training workshops to young student leaders who
would later contribute significantly to the country’s political and social
landscape.
In the post-EDSA era, SAMASA
maintained its presence in UP student politics, consistently winning seats in
the University Student Council (USC) and other key student government
positions. The organization’s platform of progressive leadership and service resonated
with many students, making it one of the most enduring political parties in the
university.
Notable Alumni
The legacy of UP SAMASA is
perhaps best reflected in the achievements of its alumni, many of whom have
gone on to become prominent figures in various fields. Some notable SAMASA
alumni include:
- Malou Mangahas: the first female chairperson in UP USC history and a veteran journalist
- Lean Alejandro: a prominent student leader during
the 80s and later a key figure in the national anti-dictatorship movement.
He was instrumental in setting up UP SAMASA which was a
key force in UP campus politics in the 1980s and
1990s.
- Francis 'Kiko' Pangilinan: The first Student Regent of UP, he defended the democratic process of selecting UP presidents at great personal cost to himself. He became a Senator of the Republic.
These individuals, along with
many others, have carried the values and principles of SAMASA into their
professional lives, contributing to the political, social, and cultural fabric
of the Philippines.
Legacy and Impact
UP SAMASA’s legacy extends beyond
its influence on student politics. It represents a broader tradition of
activism and resistance in the Philippines. The organization's commitment to
social justice, human rights, and democracy continues to inspire new generations
of students and activists.
As the Philippines faces new
challenges in the 21st century, the history of UP SAMASA serves as a reminder
of the importance of youth involvement in nation-building and the ongoing
struggle for a more just and equitable society.
I was one of the students in UPD during the 1990s who would listen to the SAMASA-led grp discussions and join the mobilizations particularly on ousting the US Bases. I recall I would follow the flag of SAMASA and the CNS. Pardon me, what was the other group which frequently go along side CNS during those campus and off-campus mobilizations? Sorry for the trip down memory lane... Definitely, these mobilizations has offered a lot of experience in terms of standing for one's beliefs no matter how insurmountable be the odds, which has served me well into the years...
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