On August 18, 2015, the Philippine League of Sociology Students-Diliman (PLSS-Diliman) in partnership with Sociosphere-the Sociology Core Group, hosted a forum entitled “Seeing Through the Smoke and Mirrors: An Assessment of the Presidential Term of PNoy.” With the theme “Back to Basics”, the talk aimed to further promote sociological and critical thinking among its audience. This is just the first among many events that will be organized to continue the pursuit of the academic and socio-civic nature of the league.

Prominent professors and guests were invited to speak on behalf of relevant sectors: Professor Clarita Carlos (Department of Political Science, UP Diliman), Professor Lanie Flores (College of Arts and Letters, UP Diliman), Ka Angie Ipong (member of the National Staff of Unyon ng mga Manggagawa sa Agrikultura (UMA), and Ka Renato Asa (Public information officer, Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU). Sharing their knowledge and expertise, the speakers exposed real life conditions regarding the issues of the different sectors and debunked news reports  in mainstream media. The floor was then opened to questions and comments from the audience. The fruitful exchange between the speakers and students provided knowledge and insight to enable the audience to critique and assess PNoy’s term on their own.

The Philippine League of Sociology Students-Diliman thanks the speakers, guests, and students who attended the forum. Most of all, the organization is ever grateful for the unwavering support of the Philippine Sociological Society. With this continued partnership, the PLSS-Diliman can ensure more relevant discussions and further promote the sociological framework to the students in the university.

Written by: Marco Montenegro, PLSS-Diliman