UP Diliman chancellor defends academic freedom vs Duterte's claims

UP Diliman Chancellor Fidel Nemenzo has pledged to defend the university's academic freedom and critical thinking policies against President Duterte's claims that it is a communist breeding ground.

Nemenzo countered Duterte's accusation by highlighting UP's role in producing numerous professionals in various fields, not just activists.

The President's statement, which threatened to defund UP, was based on a misunderstanding; it was Ateneo de Manila University students who initiated the call for an academic freeze, not UP.

Nemenzo emphasized that UP is a sanctuary for intellectual discussion, rejecting intolerance and red-tagging, which he described as dangerous due to their tendency to promote intimidation and violence.

He further stated that academic freedom is crucial for intellectual development and UP's function as both a knowledge creator and a social commentator.

Nemenzo clarified that advocating for policy changes, including the suspension of the semester, does not equate to abandoning education.