APSS calls Sui Generis Clan to dismantle blindfolds at SOPFWA 2026

Bringing the Political Science community together in a gathering centered on truth, justice, and civic responsibility, the Association of Political Science Students (APSS) held the State Opening of the Parliament and Freshmen Welcome Assembly (SOPFWA) 2026 today, September 9, at the MBA Audio-Visual Room, 5th Floor.

Carrying the theme “Kalinewan: Dismantling the Blindfold of Sui Generis Towards Truth and Justice,” the gathering welcomed the newest members of the Sui Generis Clan while reaffirming the organization’s commitment to fostering an informed, critical, and socially responsible community.

In her opening remarks, APSS Deputy Chancellor Zyzareahanne C. Aducal highlighted kalinewan as a pursuit of enlightenment, clarity, and truth amid misinformation, systemic inequality, and narratives that obscure the realities faced by ordinary Filipinos.

Aducal challenged the Sui Generis Clan to look beyond what is presented at face value, stressing that “to dismantle the blindfold is not to enable partiality, but to insist that no narrative is too blinding to evade accountability.” She further urged students to question normalized injustices, demand transparency, and recognize education as a means to sharpen their understanding of society rather than blur it.

She also called on freshmen to see their role beyond academic adaptation, encouraging them to participate actively in addressing issues within the university, classroom, and their communities.

The gathering then proceeded with an appreciation message from Ms. Jasmine M. Aquino, former APSS Chancellor and current CELASC Governor, followed by the Pinning of the Chancellery together with former APSS Deputy Chancellor and current CELASC Vice Governor, Ms. Lorraine V. Garcia, marking the transition of leadership within the organization.

Newly installed APSS Chancellor Julian Dave B. Petaca presented the organization’s planned events and initiatives for A.Y. 2026–2027, while Zippora R. Soriano, APSS 4th Year Member of Parliament, and Nathaniel Zoe L. Rombaoa, APSS P.I.O., led the reading of the organization’s Constitution and By-Laws.

After the energizing and fun icebreaker, APSS Adviser Dr. Jemuel D. Caburian delivered a message for the officers and discussed the Political Science curriculum, highlighting the academic and organizational responsibilities of the community.

Meanwhile, the Membership Fee Resolution was presented by 3rd Year Member of Parliament Jazmin Boado and 4th Year Member of Parliament Iana De Vera, discussing the organizational matter concerning APSS membership.

The program then welcomed the Sui Generis Clan, followed by the oath-taking of APSS officers spearheaded by Chancellor Julian Dave B. Petaca and the oath-taking of members led by Deputy Chancellor Zyzareahanne C. Aducal. The Oath of Commitment, led by SSC Vice President Aaron John P. Capuno, further emphasized the responsibilities carried by the organization’s members.

Closing the gathering, APSS Auditor Rye Salazar emphasized that knowledge alone is not enough in confronting societal issues, stressing the importance of participation and taking action to contribute to positive change.

Through SOPFWA 2026, APSS not only welcomed the newest members of the Sui Generis Clan but also reinforced the community’s responsibility to remain critical, engaged, and committed to pursuing truth and justice beyond the classroom.