Statement of UP Diliman Student Council
 
The student-led march for the campout in Mendiola in the past two days have been met with jets of water from fire trucks and truncheons from armor-clad police units. Entry points towards Mendiola have been blocked. The Police Superintendent James Afalla has even gone so far as to declare that Mendiola is no freedom park and to stay there would be tantamount to inciting to sedition.

Yesterday, as another attempt to push through Mendiola was made, the Manila District police once again attempted to brutally disperse the group. Without any provocation from the marchers, students and workers alike were beaten by police and hit by water cannons. Such acts of violence resulted to numerous being injured, with two students from University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman being rushed to the hospital.

The corrupt fear us.
What is to fear from the chants of the protesters or the placards that they hold? The protesters only brought themselves, strength and the legitimate issues at hand, including that of the budget cut to education, health and other basic social services. Despite promises of change, the outright display of repression towards the protesters only reveals the state for what it is—a defender of democracy for the 1% and instigator of repression for the 99%.

The honest support us.
The UP Diliman University Student Council (USC) condemns the violence instigated by state forces on the students and workers. This is a blatant attack on our democratic right to protest and hold peaceful assemblies. We enjoin the UP Community to join the solidarity protest for change. Support, such as food and medicine, may also be forwarded to the USC.

The heroic join us.
When the people are united, they can never be defeated. Outside the four corners of the University, students and workers are joining forces in the call for social change. The question here now lies with every Iskolar ng Bayan— are we to live up to our duty and take part in the struggle? Our rich tradition beckons us once again to take part in the writing history. It is high time that we stand up and join the ranks of the heroic.

Join the campout until December 10!
No to state repression! Uphold our democratic rights!
No to budget cuts to education, health and basic social services.