By: Sophia Pacheco
The Letran Student Council (LSC) drafted a petition requesting leniency regarding the Colegio’s hair length policy. Photo Courtesy: The Letran Student Council.
The Letran Student Council (LSC) drafted a petition requesting leniency regarding the Colegio’s hair length policy, last Thursday, Sept. 26. This initiative comes in response to MEMO-DSA-2425-004 issued by the Department of Student Affairs (DSA) last August 17, that reinforced existing regulations from the Letran Student Handbook prohibiting long hair for male students.
In their petition, the LSC requests that students with hair that touches or extends beyond the collar be allowed to enter school without having their IDs confiscated, and that it be styled in a presentable manner, such as a man bun, ponytail, or other appropriate tied-up styles.
Student Council's Approach to Engagement and Action
Kodi Nicole Cabacang, the Letran Student Council (LSC) president, revealed that they have gathered personal statements from 15 students about their experiences with the school's hair length restriction. Additional feedback from other concerned students highlights the policy's impact.
Ms. Cabacang emphasized the importance of collective action, which the LSC believes can create lasting change.
“...As a council, we’re more than just representatives; we actively fight for students' rights and welfare, ensuring their concerns are addressed.” she stated.
The LSC initiated an internal petition against the hair length policy, gathering 536 signatures, mostly from third-year students, despite the short timeframe of less than a day. They now await a response from the administration to address issues related to self-expression and diversity at the Colegio.
DSA Responds to LSC's Petition for Hair Policy Leniency
Officer-in-Charge of the Department of Student Affairs (DSA), Albert Rosarda, reiterated the Colegio’s dedication to maintaining its policies as a means of fostering discipline and sense of propriety among students.
The DSA emphasized that adherence to school policies is a demonstration of respect for the institution and its values.
Based upon the student handbook, which is written on page 67. There is a policy stating that male students are not allowed to wear long hair, “The prescribed male haircut is that hair should not touch the collar of the uniform. The use of hair clips, bands, ponytails, and man buns are also prohibited.” DSA OIC Rosarda said.
However, acknowledging the concerns raised by students regarding the hair policy, the DSA made it clear that they are open to discussing exceptions in specific cases.
Mr. Rosarda explained that there are some requests for leniency about the hair policy that are being permitted.
“They [students] are providing us with the documents that really prove that they need to (keep their hair), and they have undergone a medical thing.” the DSA OIC added.
The DSA OIC also urged the students who feel their situation warrants consideration are encouraged to reach out, ensuring that each student's concerns are acknowledged and respectfully handled.
As of Sept. 30, the LSC reported on their official Facebook page that the petition had been filed to the rector's office.
The office of the rector does not have a statement regarding their policy as of the moment.