UDM council defends student, insurance fees amid complaints

MANILA, Philippines — The student government of Universidad de Manila (UDM) justified its collection of student fees following some complaints from students.

According to comments posted on the Facebook page of the Manila public information office, some netizens protested the payment of student fees worth P140, especially at a time when Manila was declared under a state of calamity in the aftermath of last week’s flooding.

Others asked why there was a need to pay an insurance fee.

In a statement, the UDM Supreme Student Government said the collection of student fees resumed after the school’s board of regents approved the rates for school year 2024-2025.

Students should pay P50 student membership fee, P40 insurance fee and P50 student publication fee.

The student membership fee would augment the existing funds of accredited student organizations to implement their programs and projects, the UDM Supreme Student Government explained.

Insurance for students “aims to ensure the well-being and security of our students, both within and outside the university premises,” the student body said.

The council also highlighted the importance of publishing a student paper, which “helps students develop critical thinking skills such as writing, editing, research, critical thinking and media literacy.”